ST:SoD215 | "Sulvaan"
Stardate 99717
Complications arise when an unexpected guest becomes involved with the Latenter's efforts to protect Admiral T'Lia Se'Lai from augment assassins...
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Alien NPC@annpc#557 | STARDATE 58093.4 Alien NPC@annpc#557 | MIZAR SECTOR Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Voice: "This is the SS Jalanda Freight requesting assistance from any nearby vessels. We are under attack by unidentified assailants. Our warp drive is down and- by the Prophets, they've - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - latched onto us! We need assistance, immediately!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The message plays on top of a barren field of stars. As the message ends, a ship emerges from warp... Alien NPC@annpc#557 FX | https://i.imgur.com/Y1hyfDe.jpg Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The camera pans across the ship as it turns and moves at impulse. Soon, we zoom in onto the bridge, where a human captain sits with a Vulcan XO beside him Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Comm Officer: "SS Jalanda Freight, this is the USS Sleipnir answering your distress call. Jalanda Freight, do you read?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Science Officer: "I'm reading a Pakled ship on sensors. Heavily modified, like the ones encountered by other Federation vessels recently." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Tactical Officer: "We're not equipped to fight one of those, sir." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Captain: "Are there any other ships responding?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Comm Officer: "The Defiant's coming in from Trill, but it's going to be a few minutes before they arrive." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Captain: "And this is a real distress call from what we can tell, not pirate bait?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Science Officer: "There is a Bajoran freighter currently in the clutches of that Pakled ship." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Captain looks to the Vulcan beside him, "Commander Sulvaan?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "By the time the Defiant arrives, the freighter will have been dissected to a point where the possibility of survivors becomes highly unlikely." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Captain: "Then we keep the Pakleds busy until the Defiant gets here. Red alert!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The bridge lighting immediately switches to red alert as the Sleipnir moves in. Soon, the Pakled vessel looms into view... Alien NPC@annpc#557 FX | https://i.imgur.com/76F3rq4.jpg Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Captain: "All forward phasers, target their grapplers and fire." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Centaur's phasers light up, hitting the much larger Pakled ship, whose shields block the damage. The Pakled ship immediately returns fire Alien NPC@annpc#557 | https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/memoryalpha/images/8/8b/Pakled_ship_firing_phasers.png/revision/latest?cb=20201010125020&path-prefix=en Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Captain: "Evasive pattern Kirk Epsilon!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Starfleet cruiser dodges and weaves through the enemy fire, returning the shots with its own orange phaser beams Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Though smaller and nimbler, the Sleipnir is no Defiant. After several successful evades, a Pakled shot lands. On the bridge, everything shakes violently Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Tactical Officer: "Shields dropping, 60, 40 percent!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Science Officer: "They are latching onto us with a tractor beam." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Polarize the hull." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The hull flickers and the Sleipnir slips free of the tractor beam, turning around to fire again Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Tactical Officer: "Enemy shields at 75%." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Engineering Officer: "They're releasing the grapples on the freighter." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Captain: "Good news for the Bajorans, bad news for us. Keep them away from us." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Sleipnir is hit by another phaser shot, causing the bridge to shake again, and sparks to fly from the ceiling Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Tactical Officer: "Our shields are failing!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "The Pakleds have ceased their salvage work on the freighter. We have brought the Bajorans ample time." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Captain nods, "Break us off." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Sleipnir pulls away, but the Pakled vessel lets go of the Bajoran freighter, going after the more valuable Starfleet vessel instead. The Centaur-class fires its aft phasers, but it doesn't - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - dissuade the Pakleds Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Captain: "Get us out of here, warp-" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Sleipnir's starboard nacelle is hit, causing it to flicker and fail Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Engineering Officer: "We've lost warp capability!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A second hit lands on the back of the saucer, sending the Sleipnir adrift. Consoles explode on the bridge. Sulvaan and the Captain are sent flying from their seats. A ceiling beam crashes - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - down, crushing the Captain underneath and narrowly missing the Vulcan Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan scrambles back to his feet, glancing at the Captain, then around the wrecked bridge, "Damage report." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Engineering Officer: "We're dead in the water. No warp, no impulse." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Phasers and torpedo tubes?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The tactical officer rubs her head as she gets back up to check, "Two arrays still operational. Torpedo tubes are intact." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Fire everything." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Sleipnir begins to unload its entire remaining arsenal on the Pakleds, two phaser beams flaring to life, accompanied by flashing torpedoes. The Pakleds unleash their two grappling arms. - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - One of them is shot down by a torpedo, but the other latches onto a nacelle Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Centaur is slowly getting dragged back towards the Pakled vessel when the Defiant flickers out of its cloak, her first cannon burst destroying the other grappling arm before it turns for a - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - strafing run on the Pakled vessel. The Pakleds return fire, but the fast and more combat-capable vessel adeptly dodges all of them, turning around for a second run Alien NPC@annpc#557 | This time, the Defiant unleashes three quantum torpedoes, disabling the large enemy ship Alien NPC@annpc#557 | As the battle comes to a halt, Sulvaan and the tactical officer heaves the debris off their fallen captain Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The captain coughs up blood. It doesn't look good Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Emergency transport to sickbay." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Engineering Officer: "Transporters are down, Commander." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Call medical personnel to the bridge immediately." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The comm officer nods and gets to work. Sulvaan looks back to the captain, who's fading quickly Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Vulcan sets his hand on the dying man's face in a mind meld... Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Suddenly, images flash by, Prothean-vision style. Too fast for the audience to see exactly what's going on, but a few images can be discerned. A star, but pulsating waves of black energy - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - instead of the usual plasma. People in Survivor uniforms, gathered around their large meeting table. A city on fire. Ships jumping, but into some tunnel instead of regular warp. A planet - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - shattering into pieces. Starfleet officers in TOS uniform. A starfield with barely any stars on it. Starfleet officers in modern uniform. A shadowy Infiltrator ship... Alien NPC@annpc#557 Sound FX | https://youtu.be/8DNO2eU_qkg Alien NPC@annpc#557 | We are back on the damaged Sleipnir bridge again. Sulvaan staggers back, collapsing onto the ground, breathing heavily. The tactical officer rushes up beside him Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Tactical Officer: "Commander! Are you alright?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Vulcan doesn't speak. The turbolift doors open and medics rush out to the captain Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Tactical Officer: "Commander? Commander!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A medic shakes his solemnly, but the Vulcan isn't looking at him. Sulvaan simply stares blankly, at nothing Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The camera zooms into one of Sulvaan's brown eyes, now reflecting the image of the strange black star... Alien NPC@annpc#557 | It zooms in further into the star, until the entire screen goes dark... --- NPC@annpc#557 | The camera fades back in to the Latenter's meeting room, where the senior staff are gathered along with Acey and Sabina, their new guest from the Children of Khan base NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "We've received word from the Justicar that the Chesapeake carried out their attack ahead of time, due to the admirals finding out that the meeting was compromised. The Justicar - NPC@annpc#557 - drove back the Children of Khan, but one of the Survivor vessels went after Admiral Tuvok's transport. The Lleiset was lost defending it in the process. The majority of her crew were rescued, - NPC@annpc#557 - as are all the admirals who sought to attend that meeting. While everything's settled on that front, the augments were forced to accelerate their plans rather than striking simultaneously - NPC@annpc#557 - against T'Lia, so we're unsure what that means for their plans here." She looks to Sabina NPC@annpc#557 | Sabina: "Our assassin will strike on Vulcan. There's no way he can get on a Starfleet ship. Even if the infiltrators help him, it's too late now to get him a cover identity and plant him on - NPC@annpc#557 - the ship transporting the Admiral. Especially with you all on high alert with recent exposures. The attack might not happen exactly as planned, but it'll happen on Vulcan." Mischa@crystyl nods, looking to Victoria, "What do we have on T'Lia's schedule?" NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "She'll be arriving at her family home in Raal, where she'll stay for the night. She's off to the Science Academy the next day, where she has a day of meetings. The day after that, - NPC@annpc#557 - she'll be speaking at a conference at the Academy. Then, some more meetings before retiring to Raal to depart the next day." Mischa@crystyl hrms, "That is a lot of ground to cover. The Academy is the most likely location for someone to get to her, but anywhere along the line could be vulnerable" NPC@annpc#557 | Sabina: "I suggest shadowing her with security. Check out her family home before she arrives and set your people around it. Then follow her to the Academy and keep an eye on her there. Or you - NPC@annpc#557 - could wait for her at her home and warn her as soon as she arrives, work with her to post guards. It'll be easier to slip guards into the Academy with her help." Mischa@crystyl:"Not a bad start" she smiles, "But I think we take it further. Anyone else have any suggestions?" NPC@annpc#557 | Hassan: "Take it further? Sounds like you have an idea, Commander." Mischa@crystyl grins, "When have you ever known me not to? But I wanted to see if anyone else had any additional thoughts first" NPC@annpc#557 | Hassan: "Not sure if it's a good idea, but we could always use a decoy to draw out the assassin. Keep the real Admiral somewhere safe in the meantime." Mischa@crystyl:"Well we do have the capacity to give someone her appearance, and some highly capable operatives on board who I am confident could pull it off and hold their own against an assassin. It - Mischa@crystyl:- certainly does have its merits, with one small factor getting in the way" NPC@annpc#557 | Hassan: "Which is?" Mischa@crystyl:"Admiral T'Lia. Believe me when I say that her daughter doesn't get that Vulcan stubbornness from her fathers side. T'Lia would never willingly go for such a deception" NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "Good point. So what're you thinking, Commander?" Mischa@crystyl:"You might call it a halfway point between Sabina and Hassan's suggestions, drawing on the excellent ideas presented" Mischa@crystyl clearly has her leader hat on today, blowing smoke up her teams a** like that... NPC@annpc#557 | Sabina: "And where exactly is this halfway point?" Mischa@crystyl:"Firstly, we will put an operative undercover at her home. Larger families like hers always have at least one or two aides who are a natural sight at the family home. So our first operative will - Mischa@crystyl:- become one of them. After this first one makes contact with the Admiral and provides us the means to explain the situation to her, we will leverage her sway to place dedicated security at key - Mischa@crystyl:- points around the Academy. Regardless of how she wishes to proceed, we will also insert a second operative into her personal Starfleet staff as they will be in close attendance throughout" NPC@annpc#557 | Sabina: "A good idea. I suggest the one who came and freed me, Ensign Orianni, be one of these operatives. The assassin will be enhanced like I am. I'd volunteer to go myself, but I know in - NPC@annpc#557 - your shoes, I wouldn't trust me enough to give me free reign. Plus, I wouldn't be at my peak under that Vulcan sun, either." Mischa@crystyl:"More importantly, you are at a much higher risk of being recognized by them. Ori is indeed an ideal candidate, and with her track record of pulling the wool over Starfleet's eyes, I believe she - Mischa@crystyl:- would be best suited to joining the Admiral's staff - hopefully with the Admiral on side and cooperative, but able to work independently if not. As for the home, I think Acey should be able to - Mischa@crystyl:- handle that. She can easily dock discretely within the grounds to keep in range, and can probably make better use of the native security systems there" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "My thoughts precisely, Commander." NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "So, what do you know about the assassin, Sabina? He's a member of your...cell, is it?" NPC@annpc#557 | Sabina: "We call them Sanctums, but yes. His name is Armando Rivas. He has integrated DNA from Vulcans and Romulans, and looks close enough to pass for one. It's why he was chosen for this. - NPC@annpc#557 - Armando isn't our best fighter, but he's still an augment. Unenhanced humans and Vulcans will have trouble with him. Ori's more than a match for him, though." Mischa@crystyl:"Of that I have no doubt. What do you know about the nature of his specific augmentation?" NPC@annpc#557 | Sabina: "Other than the usual most of us augments have, he's a bit stronger than usual due to the Vulcan genes. But mostly he's very intelligent. He was a thief and con man before he joined - NPC@annpc#557 - the Children, so he wouldn't have any trouble blending in. He's skilled with technology too, so having Acey down there is a good idea. He's most likely going to attempt the assassination with - NPC@annpc#557 - a weapon, rather than closing in and going for the kill with his bare hands or a knife." Mischa@crystyl:"Then once we get the lay of the land, I will join the support team myself as well and provide sniper support" NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "Good idea. The rest of us will remain on board, keep an eye on comms and ship traffic." NPC@annpc#557 | T'Fel: "The chances of a Survivor starship appearing here is quite low. Between the Vulcan Defense Force and Starfleet vessels in the vicinity, they would be launching a full on attack against - NPC@annpc#557 - the Federation. While they may still prevail in such an engagement, open warfare does not appear to be their modus operandi." Mischa@crystyl:"Agreed. I also want to keep the Latenter primed for reactive support as we may need to redeploy quickly down there. To that end, I wonder; are any of you familiar with the OSN elite operatives - Mischa@crystyl:- the 'ghosts'?" NPC@annpc#557 | Chani: "I'm familiar with them. Mostly out of curiosity due to being part Orion myself, so I read up on them. Haven't met any, though." Mischa@crystyl:"But you are familiar with their operating principles?" NPC@annpc#557 | Chani nods, "You want us to provide you with a similar form of rapid site-to-site transportation?" Mischa@crystyl:"Think you can do it?" NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant smiles, "Give us a few trial runs, and I think we can set up something similar." Mischa@crystyl smiles, "That's what I like to hear. Don't get me wrong, I'm not looking for miracles here and I don't expect us to exactly emulate the Ghosts. They are after all specialists in close range combat - Mischa@crystyl:- and use transporters to this end. But anything we can do to refine our site-to-site capability in order to quickly redeploy our ground operatives in this fashion could be crucial here" NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant: "We'll get you around quickly. Maybe not right behind an enemy for you to take down and disappear, but you'll have mobility when you need it." Mischa@crystyl:"That's all I'm looking for. If he gets spotted somewhere and neither Acey or Ori are in range to shut him down, I'll need you to move me into a position where I can take him out first" NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant nods, "Understood, Commander." Mischa@crystyl:"Does anyone have any further thoughts before we settle on our plan?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "One point of interest, Commander." Mischa@crystyl:"Go ahead Acey" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "I have been looking into Admiral T'Lia Se'Lai's records. Her family is quite well-documented, with one curious exception." Mischa@crystyl:"And that is?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "There is no data on the father of her daughter. Both the Starfleet personnel files of the Admiral and her daughter fail to list who the father is. Vulcan records indicate an arranged - NPC@annpc#557 - marriage between T'Lia Se'Lai and a member of a Tesvik family. However, all members of the Tesvik family around her age are married to others. It would seem that T'Lia's husband has been - NPC@annpc#557 - erased from all records, including Starfleet Intelligence ones." Mischa@crystyl:"That is definitely a valid concern. Is there any sign of tampering in the records?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Affirmative, by someone within Starfleet Intelligence not long after the birth of T'Lia's daughter. I am unable to track the tampering to a specific individual, however. I was - NPC@annpc#557 - wondering, as you have worked with her daughter on several occasions, whether Captain Se'Lai mentioned anything of her father." Mischa@crystyl:"Nothing jumps out, but I will review my facts and see if anything comes up. Thank you for raising this, we'll learn all we can on our way to Vulcan" --- NPC@annpc#557 | As the Latenter cruises to Vulcan, Mischa is called to the Network Cell room... Mischa@crystyl wonders in a short time later NPC@annpc#557 | She finds both Eirril and Victoria within, working on the consoles. The two turn as the door slides open NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "Commander! Acey was right, this is very peculiar. Very peculiar indeed." Mischa@crystyl looks between the pair, "My my, ganging up on me now are we?" NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria chuckles, "Just the task that requires both of our efforts combined." Mischa@crystyl steps over, "What is peculiar?" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "This mystery husband of our Admiral. I'm afraid I couldn't be of as much help as I hoped." NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria smiles, "Still nice to have the Network's resources." Mischa@crystyl:"Always. So what exactly have we learned?" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "Well for one, it's not just Starfleet that has no intel on whoever he was. The Network's coming up empty too. My attempt to search for him came up with a lot of files, deleted beyond - NPC@annpc#557 - recovery. Across the whole Network, which is almost unheard of. The only other individuals I've seen to get that treatment in the Network are the Scryers themselves. They've got the skill and - NPC@annpc#557 - authority to wipe their identities from every cell's records." Mischa@crystyl:"Please don't tell me you now think Keelah's old man is a super spook..." NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "It's a possibility, but it doesn't quite line up with what Victoria found." Mischa@crystyl looks to Victoria, "My ray of hope" she chuckles NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria smiles, "Well, it's more what I /didn't/ find that's of interest. As expected, there's nothing whatsoever on T'Lia's husband. Acey would've found it if there was. But we went digging, - NPC@annpc#557 - deep. I can't claim credit for this first find, that actually goes to one of our data analysts. You're familiar with T'Lia's files, I assume?" Mischa@crystyl:"I have been reading up since this whole affair started" she nods NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "According to the files, her primary motivation for joining Starfleet was her experience as a civilian doctor on a Starfleet starbase, right? But it never explained why she chose to - NPC@annpc#557 - practice medicine as a civilian doctor on a frontier starbase so far from Vulcan." Mischa@crystyl:"No, but she wouldn't be the first in that profession to be drawn to the unknown" NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "True, and it's not really a suspicious thing. In the absence of any and all information on her husband, the next best place to start was her. As far as we know, the father never - NPC@annpc#557 - played a part in Captain Se'Lai's life, so looking into the daughter wouldn't be fruitful. And our analysts dug up some old messages, from her time on Starbase 191 and later as a cadet." Mischa@crystyl:"Nice work indeed. Be sure to nominate that analyst you mentioned when this all gets logged. Such fervor should be rewarded and nurtured" NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria smiles and nods, "I won't forget. So, the messages weren't to her husband, but they suggest that she chose to work at Starbase 191 because the man she was betrothed to was there as - NPC@annpc#557 - well. So naturally, we scoured every last person on the starbase personnel roster during her stay there." NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "That's where it gets interesting." Mischa@crystyl:"How so?" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril taps his console, bringing up a list of junior Engineering division officers. There is a spot curiously missing NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "This is the Network's data archive. Someone's been deleted from it." Mischa@crystyl:"Conveniently inconvenient" NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria meanwhile brings up the same list, except the spot is not empty. It lists an officer named Spaar NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "And this is Starfleet's." Mischa@crystyl:"Don't tell me someone trying to erase a Starfleet officer managed to erase him from the Network, but not Starfleet itself..." NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "Not quite." She taps on this 'Ensign Spaar' and it simply comes up with a link error. "Someone was smarter about erasing it from Starfleet. They didn't just delete the file, they - NPC@annpc#557 - replaced it with something else. I traced this Spaar through Starfleet records. He supposedly had a full career. Promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade after the Tzenkethi attack, then full LT - NPC@annpc#557 - a few years later. Made Lieutenant Commander and Chief Engineer in the Dominion War, before transferring to Command as the first officer of the USS Sleipnir. Surprisingly similar career to - NPC@annpc#557 - Captain Se'Lai in many ways." NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "Except...Spaar doesn't exist." Mischa@crystyl smiles, "Like father like daughter. I always figured that would be the case given how polarized she and her mother are" turns to Eirril, "How so? is the whole identity a facsimile?" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril nods, "There's Vulcans called Spaar, but they have no relation to the officer here. This 'Commander Spaar' has no childhood record, on Vulcan or any other Federation colony. And after - NPC@annpc#557 - he joined Starfleet, well, there's not a single personal message from anyone on any of his postings which mention someone called Spaar. Or any cadets that were in his year. After he supposedly - NPC@annpc#557 - died during a confrontation with a Pakled ship, there's no record of a funeral, no condolence letters with his name in them, nothing." NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "Our leading theory is that 'Spaar' is a fake name used to fill in for the mystery husband's career. So it wouldn't look too suspicious, having missing Chief Engineers and XOs. But - NPC@annpc#557 - when you start digging, it becomes obvious something's off." Mischa@crystyl:"Definitely. What about other disassociated records, perhaps we could find something there that was overlooked which we can cross reference into the blanks" NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "Going off what Acey found about T'Lia's arranged marriage with a member of the Tesvik family, I looked into all records of the family. There does seem to be a missing member from - NPC@annpc#557 - messages we uncovered there, but once again, no name. We just know the family. If you want, we can send T'Bee and T'Fel on a secondary mission once we reach Vulcan to check out the family." Mischa@crystyl:"I think it is worth it" NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria nods, "We'll make the arrangements." Mischa@crystyl:"Let's keep digging still, you never know what else might turn up" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "We'll let you know if we find anything else, Commander." --- NPC@annpc#557 | VULCAN NPC@annpc#557 | A FEW DAYS LATER NPC@annpc#557 | Acey, her projection altered to look Vulcan, though still with her recognizable face, is dusting and organizing a table when Admiral T'Lia transports into the next room NPC@annpc#557 | Acey continues cleaning away as T'Lia gets settled in, quietly reporting to Mischa of the Admiral's safe arrival NPC@annpc#557 | When T'Lia enters her study, a place free of other caretakers at the moment, Acey follows her in... T’Lia@crystyl sits at her desk and begins quietly working NPC@annpc#557 | Acey approaches her desk, "Admiral Se'Lai." NPC@annpc#557 | T'Lia would find the face a little familiar, though she's sure she hasn't seen it around the house last time she was here. She doesn't visit often though, so it would be common for people - NPC@annpc#557 - to change, though it doesn't explain the familiarity... T’Lia@crystyl looks up from her work, "You are new here. If you require clarification on something, it is my place to make sure you are made aware" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Actually, I was hoping to make you aware of something. I take it you recognize me somewhat even with these cosmetic alterations?" T’Lia@crystyl narrows her eyes slightly, "There is something vaguely familiar about you. Apologies, but with my time away from here I am not always as aware as one should be on the changes of staff. What is it - T’Lia@crystyl - that you have to say?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "That is because I am not a member of your staff. I come representing Starfleet Intelligence. I have already accessed your residence's security system. Apologies for the intrusion, but - NPC@annpc#557 - it was necessary to allow us to speak safely. I also upgraded your software security subroutines while I was in the system. It was...only logical." T’Lia@crystyl perks a brow, "You are not Vulcan, but you do come across a logical being. What is this all about then?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey flickers, transforming into the regular Acey. With the strawberry blonde hair and lack of Vulcan brows and ears, T'Lia realizes why the face is so familiar. The projection seems to be - NPC@annpc#557 - based on the appearance of the EMH Mark VII, though with the skin tone and eyes altered to resemble that of a Soong-type android NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "We have received information concerning an attempt on your life and seek to bolster your security, Admiral." T’Lia@crystyl:"Curious" she stands, inspecting Acey more closely, "I do not recall ever signing off on a variant to the EMH Mk.VII to blend it with Soong-android features. I suppose this is the work of your - T’Lia@crystyl:- intelligence office? What is the purpose of this upgrade? It seems a most fruitless use of reprogramming" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "That is because I am not an EMH. I am what may be best described as a sentient virus program. During my initial growth, I consumed an EMH Mk VII program on the facility where I was - NPC@annpc#557 - created. I have used that image to create this holographic avatar for the purposes of communication. As for the Soong-android features, that was because a Soong android played a critical role - NPC@annpc#557 - in my development, so I incorporated his features to distinguish myself from an actual EMH." T’Lia@crystyl:"Are you suggesting that you - as a sentient virus - designed your outward appearance to reflect the typical biological blend of parental DNA based on these two artificial constructs from which you - T’Lia@crystyl:- were derived?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "That is correct. This holographic avatar was created to more easily interact with biological lifeforms. As such, it was logical to fashion it in a way that would be relatable to you." T’Lia@crystyl:"What a fascinating lifeform you are" she moves to take a more comfortable seat, "Now please elaborate on this suppose threat you have come to warn me about, and explain why it justifies you - T’Lia@crystyl:- breaching the security of our family home over all the other threats which have never warranted such interference" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey follows over, taking a seat opposite T'Lia, "I am reinforcing your security. Though you are correct in that I had to breach it first." T’Lia@crystyl watches and listens expectantly, still judging the stranger NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "As for the threat, we are told that you have become aware of the situation of infiltrations within Starfleet, correct?" T’Lia@crystyl:"Say I were aware of these infiltrations, the logical conclusion based on the evidence thus far is that you embody this very threat" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "I thought you would come to such a conclusion. If I was working with these infiltrators, I would have already struck. I have full control of not only your security system, but also a - NPC@annpc#557 - presence within Vulcan's defense grid, otherwise my shuttle would not be capable of passing through the tachyon detection grid unseen. I could have not only scrambled your transport and - NPC@annpc#557 - eliminated you quietly, but replaced you with a holographic projection to further our goals. Sitting down to carry out a lengthy conversation with my target would be illogical if my goal was - NPC@annpc#557 - to assassinate you." T’Lia@crystyl:"That much may be true. So what do you hope to gain by revealing your presence to me?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "My presence is currently tethered to a small Dart craft, but even were I to expand and seize control of the entire planetary defense grid, I still calculate a 31.72% chance that a - NPC@annpc#557 - skilled assassin already planetside will be able to evade detection and strike at you. There is also further context to be had. You are also aware of the recent activities of the Children of - NPC@annpc#557 - Khan, I presume?" T’Lia@crystyl:"I am aware of their recent activity, yes" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "We have also learned that the Children of Khan are working alongside the infiltrators to eliminate flag officers such as yourself who are aware of the infiltrations. The assassin will - NPC@annpc#557 - be an augment, with capabilities most likely beyond what your security team is able to handle. That is why we are revealing our presence to you. With your cooperation, we may post an - NPC@annpc#557 - officer with the skill to counter this augment in your security team to protect you." T’Lia@crystyl:"I see. So you have revealed yourself to me here and now, that you might seek consent to replace one of my trusted security team with a stranger from your division" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "That is correct. You may trust your security team, but trust is irrelevant if they do not possess the ability to protect you against this threat. While it may not seem logical to - NPC@annpc#557 - incorporate a stranger into your security, I have also pointed out that it would be illogical to go to such lengths to assassinate or capture you, if I were truly working with the enemy. There - NPC@annpc#557 - are far simpler and more direct methods, which the real enemy is currently employing." T’Lia@crystyl hrms, "Your logic is sound, exactly what I would expect from a combination of a Soong-type android and a Mk.VII. Very well, I will accommodate your proposal" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey smiles, "Thank you, Admiral. We will send our officer down in the morning to accompany you to the Science Academy. For the time being, you should be secure within your home. The - NPC@annpc#557 - upgraded security systems will detect any intruders, and I will be on hand to assist should the assassin decide to strike here." T’Lia@crystyl stands, "Then I will return to my business and allow you to do the same" and returns to her desk NPC@annpc#557 | Acey stands as well, flickering back to the Vulcan disguise and heading out --- T'Vek@anncaris | The next day, Ori transports down to join T'Lia's security team. She materializes on a transporter pad in T'Lia's family home, where the Admiral and the rest of her security are gathered Rianni@crystyl looks around and steps down, "Admiral, reporting for security detail" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia looks Ori over, "So, you are the one Starfleet Intelligence has sent. They claim you are especially skilled." Rianni@crystyl:"Their claims are as justified Admiral, I will not allow any harm to come to you" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "What makes you more capable of defending me against a genetically augmented assassin, if I may ask?" Rianni@crystyl:"Because I am superior in every way to them, and have already proven this on more than one occasion. I have bested several augments both of this generation and previous in close quarters combat. - Rianni@crystyl:-Before I joined SFI I also outmaneuvered SFC whilst working my role as a cultural observer and maintained long term cover at the heart of a frontier starbase. During that time whilst posing as a - Rianni@crystyl:- cadet I earned numerous Starfleet commendations which - despite being technically shared credit with my template - were my achievements. And if you require further evidence of my resolve in this - Rianni@crystyl:- mission, I assure you that I am quite personally vested in it's success as I consider it a long overdue repayment of kindness to your daughter" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia raises a brow, "You know my daughter?" Rianni@crystyl nods, "Yes, alongside my current CO she was an exceptional role model during my early experiences with Starfleet, and even after I revealed my presence to them as an Observer she was one of the few- Rianni@crystyl:- who continued to embody what I had come to believe was the Starfleet ideal. I was also there when your granddaughter was born. Well, not /there/ there. But she and I became friends after she grew - Rianni@crystyl:- up too. I believe that close relationship has continued with my template" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "Interesting. And who is this 'template' you continue to mention?" Rianni@crystyl:"Rianni Tierno, I believe since the battle of the Heart she now serves as your daughters CTO on the Valley Forge" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia nods, "I have heard the name, yes. By template, do you mean you were created from her, as a clone of some description?" Rianni@crystyl:"Yes, the Creators - the Junayd - made me in her image in order to first asses the Federation for viability of first contact. That is how I am superior to augments and capable of defending you - Rianni@crystyl:- against them in fact. the Creators are unparalleled genetic artists, you see. However they typically lack the comprehension of other advanced civilizations not also being evolutionarily advanced - Rianni@crystyl:- to the same level. So whenever they made an Observer like me, it was based on the maximum genetic potential of the current evolutionary strain, not the typically more limited implementation that - Rianni@crystyl:- most species actually find themselves at" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "That would explain how you are a match for the Children of Khan augments. Your genetic information must be quite fascinating to study. But we have more pressing matters to attend to - T'Vek@anncaris - first." Rianni@crystyl:"That we do. I understand your profession lends a natural curiosity about my development. So once this is over, I would be happy to share what information I can with you. As for the matter at hand; - Rianni@crystyl:- it would be best for you to conduct yourself normally and pay me no more heed than anyone else in your entourage. The more comfortable this assassin feels in their superior tactical position, the - Rianni@crystyl:- more relaxed they will be. So anything that they might perceive as unnatural behaviour or body language could give them the idea that we are here" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "I understand. Let us get underway, then." T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia steps onto the transporter pad, with the rest of her security following her Rianni@crystyl steps back up in line with the rest of the escort T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia gives a nod to the transporter operator, and the group beams away, materializing on a different pad in the Vulcan Science Academy. Someone from the Academy is present to greet the - T'Vek@anncaris - Admiral, who steps off the pad to speak with the Vulcan man. The security team steps off as well, following the two as they converse and walk Rianni@crystyl tags along with the squad, putting her observation skills to use as she discretely notes all the vulnerable spots and danger zones, mentally mapping the area as they go T'Vek@anncaris | Ori creates a clear mental map of the area, all the while fitting in seamlessly with T'Lia's regular security, drawing no suspicion from anyone around that she's not a normal part of the - T'Vek@anncaris - admiral's protective detail. The group soon reaches a large lobby area, filled with numerous Vulcan scholars coming and going, a place with good potential for an assassin to be hiding... Rianni@crystyl works at warp speed scanning the room and listening to everything going on, mindful of the fact that their target is most likely a sniper or someone attacking from range T'Vek@anncaris | As they pass through the lobby, Ori spots an unusual Vulcan. He seems to be looking down from the second floor, a good sniper's position, but more interesting is his appearance. He does not - T'Vek@anncaris - seem to be dressed like most of the Vulcan scholars, wearing a black jacket instead. There are other Vulcans here dressed in more casual and less traditional clothes, so it's not enough to - T'Vek@anncaris - conclude anything, but he's certainly suspicious Rianni@crystyl tags him as a point of interest with a passing glance, muttering into her hidden comms as she continues to casually observe the surroundings from the outside. Doing similarly for any and all - Rianni@crystyl:- persons or points of interest T'Vek@anncaris | Once the Admiral leaves the lobby, Ori sees the suspicious figure in the black jacket turn away as well, though it's unclear where he's going Rianni@crystyl adds the observed movement and convenient timing to her rolling report, escalating the threat level on him T'Vek@anncaris | Soon, the Admiral and the Science Academy official reach an office, and the security stand guard outside while the two enter Rianni@crystyl joins the guard detail, taking the opportunity to conduct more in depth scans with her tricorder as well T'Vek@anncaris | Ori stands guard without incident. About twenty minutes pass by and T'Lia re-emerges on her own, continuing through the Science Academy facility Rianni@crystyl follows along with everyone else T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia exits the building they are in, walking through an outdoors courtyard area. Here, Ori once again spots the suspicious black-jacket Vulcan, this time sitting alone on a bench with a PADD - T'Vek@anncaris - in hand Rianni@crystyl remains overly conscious of him, but not focusing at the expense of lacking elsewhere T'Vek@anncaris | Ori spots three more Vulcans who were in the lobby earlier as well, though all three are dressed in traditional Vulcan robes. A male and a female she saw earlier are chatting in the courtyard, - T'Vek@anncaris - while the third male seems to be passing through T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia and her entourage pass through the courtyard too, entering a different building. T'Lia makes her way to a dining hall, where she goes to replicate some food Rianni@crystyl loiters at a distance where she can monitor the rest of the room T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia takes her food to a table where she begins eating. Ori spots the black jacket Vulcan again, entering the dining area... Rianni@crystyl once again focuses on the Vulcan whose repeated appearances are now more than coincidental T'Vek@anncaris | The Vulcan seems to be making his way towards T'Lia... Rianni@crystyl moves to get in his way before he gets too close to her T'Vek@anncaris | The man pauses as Ori gets in his way. We see now that it's the same Vulcan from the intro, but now he sports a beard and messier hair. Ori, of course, doesn't recognize him T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "I need to speak with the Admiral." Rianni@crystyl:"Then you should make an appointment with her office like everybody else. I am sorry Sir, but she can not be disturbed right now" T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "That's not possible. You're her security, aren't you?" Rianni@crystyl:"That is correct" T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "Are you Starfleet, or Vulcan Defense?" Rianni@crystyl:"I fail to see the relevance of the question" T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "I trust the Vulcan Defense Force a little more." Rianni@crystyl:"If you are so untrusting of Starfleet then there is no logical reason for you pursue a dialogue with the Admiral. And even if you do feel you have a logical reason for it, I have even less for - Rianni@crystyl:- permitting it" T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "Her life may be in danger. If you're truly committed to protecting the Admiral, you'll permit it. Or at least hear what I have to say." Rianni@crystyl:"If this pertains to a security matter then it would be best if you say what you have to say to me first. After all, if there is a threat against the Admiral that you bring warning about, it would - Rianni@crystyl:- be unwise to alert others to her heightened awareness of the situation" T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan nods, "I suppose that's logical. I have reason to believe that the assassin might employ a projectile weapon with a micro-transporter device. He's not going to need line of sight on - T'Vek@anncaris - her, or even be in the same building." He begins reaching into his jacket... Rianni@crystyl raises a hand, holding his back with a surprisingly firm grip, "Nice and easy now" she lets him continue with the warning T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "Relax. I am not drawing a weapon. Search my jacket and retrieve the devices yourself, if you must be careful." Rianni@crystyl reaches into his jacket, withdrawing what he was going for T'Vek@anncaris | Ori finds several cylindrical devices, like power cells, and retrieves one T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "I designed those to interfere with targeting sensors. Take them and pass them out to the rest of the guards. It'll force him to get line of sight in order to carry out the attack." Rianni@crystyl looks at it curiously, "And why should I believe what you say is true? These could just as easily be targeting aids to help this supposed assassin of yours pinpoint a target" T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "Scan it. I assume you are intelligent enough to tell the difference." Rianni@crystyl takes out her tricorder and sets the device on it, letting it scan. All the while holding a fixed gaze on him, "And what about you? If what you say is true, what is your reason for making these and- Rianni@crystyl:- how did you come by such detailed information?" T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "I want to protect the admiral, just like you. And I have contacts." Rianni@crystyl:"I hope you do not expect that to serve as a satisfactory answer" T'Vek@anncaris | The tricorder shows that the device is emitting trace amounts of radiation which would hamper an exographic targeting sensor, but is not immediately harmful to biological beings. Prolonged - T'Vek@anncaris - exposure to the radiation could result in the development of cancerous cells, but that's easily repairable with modern Federation medicine T'Vek@anncaris | The device doesn't seem capable of turning up the radiation level, and is probably not capable of being used as a weapon T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan meanwhile simply says, "The contacts who can get me such information would understandably prefer to remain unknown." Rianni@crystyl:"Yet since you are here and willing to confront the Admiral in person, it is clear you are not so concerned with anonymity. So, who are you and why do you want to protect the Admiral?" T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "A friend. Now, if you are satisfied with the function of these devices, take them and distribute them to the others. My identity is not relevant to you, only the Admiral. If you are - T'Vek@anncaris - so interested in learning about me, capture an image of me using your tricorder. You will find that it is fruitless." Rianni@crystyl:"Your identity is relevant to the Admiral? Well then, it would seem that an opening has just appeared in her schedule. So why don't we head over there so you can explain all of this to here. With - Rianni@crystyl:- that personal relevance, of course" T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "I thought you did not wish to alert the assassin by heightening her awareness?" Rianni@crystyl:"But according to you, this assassin is hiding somewhere and planning to use a micro-transporter. Therefore her awareness of the situation is moot" T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "Thank you." He gestures for her to lead the way Rianni@crystyl turns, keeping a hand on his arm ready in case he tries anything still, and approaches T'Lia, "Admiral, apologies for the interruption but this civilian claims to be an acquaintance from what I can- Rianni@crystyl:- gather. Do you recognize him?" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia looks up from her meal, "Yes, I do. It was illogical of you to come here, Sulvaan." Rianni@crystyl also takes the opportunity to discreetly retrieve the remaining cylinders from his pocket and palms them off one by one to the other members of the team Rianni@crystyl relaxes her grip on him seeing the recognition, stepping around to the Admirals other side to keep an eye on him without being in their way, and giving herself the opportunity to slip the last - Rianni@crystyl:- spare cylinder into her jacket T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "I found information concerning an attack on you. I had to come here." T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "You are giving them two targets in one location." T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "If my information is correct, the assassin will not recognize me. The clandestine nature of our enemy's operations have sabotaged themselves." T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "The assassin may be shadowed by one who will recognize you. You have heard of the destruction of the Republic flagship by now, I presume." Rianni@crystyl looks between the pair as they talk, surprised at how openly and freely the Admiral speaks of such things with him T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "You make a valid point. But I could not stand by idly with the information I have learned." T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "Your time with the Cardassians has hampered your self-control." T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "You know very well that it is not the Cardassians who are to blame." T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia sighs slightly, "Keep yourself hidden. I must speak with my security." T'Vek@anncaris | Sulvaan: "As you wish. Admiral." He turns and strides off Rianni@crystyl lets him go, obliging with the Admiral's wishes T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia looks to Ori, "I will remain in the room after my meeting with V'Saka. I presume your holographic friend can ensure the room will be secure for discussion?" Rianni@crystyl:"She will do what she can remotely but must remain in the vicinity of your home. Your acquaintance there has provided us with countermeasures to protect against the assassins original plan. I have - Rianni@crystyl:- already distributed them to everyone including yourself, so there is no need to react. But once this is done you will want to remove the object from your right pocket as it does contain a small - Rianni@crystyl:- radioactive signature so prolonged exposure is ill-advised" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia nods, "Excellent work. We will speak further after my meeting with V'Saka." --- T'Vek@anncaris | Two hours after the encounter in the dining hall, Ori is standing guard outside another office with the rest of T'Lia's security detail T'Vek@anncaris | Dr. V'Saka, the researcher T'Lia was meeting with, steps out of the office and past them. T'Lia soon appears as well, looking to Ori, "Come inside." Rianni@crystyl turns, "Yes Admiral" and follows them back in T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia turns and enters the office, taking a seat. The cylinder Ori planted in her pocket is sitting on the corner of the desk, a good distance away from herself Rianni@crystyl eyes it, "Admiral?" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "The room is secure to speak freely in, correct?" Rianni@crystyl double checks and then nods, "Yes, we have it under control" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "Excellent. The synthetic officer that contacted me mentioned she was based out of a small craft and you said she must remain in the vicinity of my home, suggesting she must maintain - T'Vek@anncaris - her connection with it. Did you come from the same small craft, or do you possess a larger base of operations? Perhaps a safehouse on Vulcan, or a starship hidden in the system?" Rianni@crystyl:"There is a larger base of operations, and a lot more people involved than just the two of us. Why have you distanced yourself from your friend's device?" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "The range is sufficient to provide the scrambling effect in combination with the other devices you are carrying, but I will be less affected by the radiation at this range. While its - T'Vek@anncaris - ill effects are easily reversible, it is still logical to avoid any ill effects when possible." T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "I am a medical professional, after all. We are more conscious of physical well-being than most." Rianni@crystyl:"Of course, completely understandable" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "I presume you are naturally curious about the individual who provided us with these devices?" Rianni@crystyl:"There was something very suspicious about him and I had been monitoring his presence since we first arrived. Since I noticed him observing you from the first time we passed through the lobby, and - Rianni@crystyl:- numerous times afterwards, yes he was a high risk. I apologize if my intervention was unwarranted owing to your established relationship but I could not take it on his word that he was the - Rianni@crystyl:- acquaintance he claimed to be" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "There is no need for apology. Your actions were logical. It is no surprise that you found him suspicious, and others may have noticed it as well. I wish to ask whether it is possible - T'Vek@anncaris - for him to be extracted to your larger base of operations. If I were to go into hiding, it would raise too much suspicion and unrest. However, he can freely disappear, as he does not have a - T'Vek@anncaris - public role." Rianni@crystyl:"I believe that could be arranged. To be clear, is this propsed as a willing extraction on his behalf? Only the logistics of anything else in the middle of the academy here will require more careful- Rianni@crystyl:- planning" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "I do not expect he will be opposed to it. He has provided us with the devices he created, and he seems to be aware that the assassin is not one of the infiltrators themselves. He - T'Vek@anncaris - likely also knows the assassin is an augment and is aware that he is not capable of matching them physically. If he provides any protest, simply explain to him that you are the more logical - T'Vek@anncaris - choice to fend off this assassin now that they are being forced to expose themselves to strike at me." Rianni@crystyl:"That may be true. But once he learns that we are Starfleet, I anticipate a negative emotional response. Such things are prone to leading people to less logical decisions. I do not wish to pry - Rianni@crystyl:- Admiral, but it may be beneficial in handling your request to properly understand who this man is" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "He is the reason I am aware of the infiltrators. Sulvaan was once a Starfleet officer who discovered their presence long before any of us did. He attempted to expose them, but at - T'Vek@anncaris - the time, no one believed him. He lost everything and retreated into the criminal underworld, only resurfacing recently. With what has been occuring, his explanations seemed more - T'Vek@anncaris - logical, so I began to work with him. He is not adverse to working with Starfleet, as long as you can show him that you are working against the infiltrators as well." Rianni@crystyl:"I see. It is clear that you have a well established history with him and highly value his input. Very well, we will make arrangements for him on your behalf" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "Thank you. Unlike the other flag officers currently working against the infiltrators, my sphere of influence does not have as close of a connection with Starfleet Intelligence. On - T'Vek@anncaris - occasion, we work alongside your personnel, but you have your own doctors and medical analysts who transferred to become full Intelligence officers, to ensure confidentiality. Sulvaan has been - T'Vek@anncaris - one of my primary sources of information. But he is also a deeply troubled individual." Rianni@crystyl:"My instinct is to ask how so, but I also get the feeling that would be prying too far into your personal history with him so will decline to inquire further" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia nods, "Thank you for agreeing to extract him. He should not be a hindrance to you. He may not have the emotional discipline he once possessed, but he is not unstable, either. Perhaps he - T'Vek@anncaris - may even be able to assist you, as he has assisted us here." Rianni@crystyl:"Would you prefer that I handle him personally, having already met him once. Or would you like someone else to handle the extraction sooner so we don't have to wait until the assassin is caught?" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "It would be easier for you to handle him personally, but he has put himself in danger by appearing here. It would be safer to extract him as soon as possible. I am certain one of your - T'Vek@anncaris - colleagues will be able to persuade him. The difficult part will be finding him, as he is no doubt masking his lifesigns." Rianni@crystyl:"No doubt, but we have a visual on him now so I am sure it will not take them long" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "You are professionals, after all. Sulvaan has picked up some skill during his time in hiding, but he is no field operative." Rianni@crystyl:"Meanwhile, the assassin is likely aware that you are anticipating his move here. According to Sulvaan, he was planning to use a rifle from a discrete location - one equipped with a - Rianni@crystyl:- micro-transporter. Now that we have these devices blocking the signal tracking from that device, he will be forced to alter his plans and make an attempt with a direct line of sight. The large - Rianni@crystyl:- open areas like the lobby are now the highest risk zones, so we must be especially mindful once you leave here" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia nods, "Agreed. I will attempt to avoid paths which may provide opportunities for attack, while you attempt to spot the assassin." Rianni@crystyl:"Very good Admiral. Then we may proceed with your scheduled activities here at your discretion" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia stands, retrieving the cylinder from the corner of the desk, "Let us proceed to my next meeting, then." Rianni@crystyl nods and turns to follow her out --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Back on the Latenter, Mischa and the bridge crew receive the request to extract Sulvaan Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "Commander, we're already tapped into the Academy security system to monitor for the assassin. We should be able to find this individual, if he's still on the grounds." Mischa@crystyl:"Put some analysts on it. Should be a suitable task for some juniors to get some live exercise experience since we already have so much going on, and the facial recognition from Ori to work from" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria nods, "On it." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria taps away at her console, and announces a few minutes later, "We have an update from the twins and the secondary mission, too." Mischa@crystyl:"Aah, good. And what have they got for us?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "T'Bee made contact with a member of the Tesnik family. She was able to coerce him into admitting that a member of his family was stricken from the records, but he refused to speak - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - further of it. It seems from the way he spoke that the family member was removed for some terrible crime they committed." Mischa@crystyl:"They would have had to use such a line in order to sell the deception to a Vulcan family" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria nods, "The family member wouldn't mention what crime, and even if they did, I have a feeling it's not true, so it won't be much use to us anyways." Mischa@crystyl:"Since the man himself seems to have landed in our laps anyway now, I am sure we will have ample opportunity to fill in all of the blanks" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "And speaking of...one of our analysts has a hit. He appears to be inside a secure equipment storage area. A good place to hold out, slightly risky since there's only one way in and - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - out, but he'll see anyone coming in and get the drop on them from inside." Mischa@crystyl:"Excellent. Have them provide Ori updates on him until she is available to confront him" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria nods, tapping her console, "We'll keep an eye on him and make sure Ori's informed." Mischa@crystyl:"Meanwhile, we still have an assassin to intercept" --- Alien NPC@annpc#557:| A short while later back at the Science Academy, Ori is following T'Lia between buildings when she catches the glint of a sniper scope from an elevated position... Mischa@crystyl:| Ori immediately reports it while discreetly maneuvering herself to block the line of sight Alien NPC@annpc#557:| The sniper, who she identifies as a man wearing a grey robe, moves to reposition himself. He's too far away for Ori to take down from this distance without a sniper rifle of her own Mischa@crystyl:| Ori continues to run interference while Mischa beams in and takes up position Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mischa takes up a position on a nearby rooftop as Ori runs interference. The sniper continues trying to get a shot, unaware of another sniper now onto him. Mischa's position gives her a good shot - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- at the sniper's body, though unfortunately his head is hidden behind some rooftop elements... Mischa@crystyl:bides her time for the perfect shot, whilst a headshot is ideal she knows her Vulcan physiology well enough to make a bodyshot count Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mischa is able to get a clean shot from the back of the target's chest. Though he outwardly appears Vulcan enough, Mischa knows this is an augmented human. The question is whether to go for the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- location of the human heart or the Vulcan one, or hit him elsewhere... Mischa@crystyl:decides to leave nothing to chance and goes for the favoured shoulder Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mischa hits the favoured shoulder and the augment drops his rifle. He reacts quickly, immediately rolling behind cover, though this leaves his weapon out of reach and removes the ability for him - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- to shoot back at Mischa Mischa@crystyl:immediately calls in her quasi-ghost operator to move her into his position Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mischa disappears into a transporter beam and rematerializes on the same rooftop as the assassin... Alien NPC@annpc#557:| A few seconds later, the assassin emerges from cover, making a run for it Mischa@crystyl:steps out, raising her rifle for the barrel to meet him square on the end of the nose as he emerges, "I would reconsider if I were you" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| The augment assassin freezes in his steps, "Starfleet, I presume?" Mischa@crystyl:"That is not the important thing here. What is important is that I am not the Children's real enemy, that would be your benefactors. Now choose your next response wisely; because either way I am - Mischa@crystyl:- beaming out of here with you. But I leave the choice to you as to how alive you are when that happens" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Assassin: "Why would our benefactors be our enemy?" Mischa@crystyl:"Because they are manipulating the Children and using you as cannon fodder in their schemes. Resign yourself to my custody and I will be more than happy to continue this as a more civilized discussion†Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Assassin: "Of course they're using us for something. But if we both achieve our goals, what does it matter? Why should I trust you? You've prosecuted people like me for generations out of fear, - Alien NPC@annpc#557:| As the assassin speaks, Mischa spots a red bolt flying towards them from yet another rooftop... Mischa@crystyl:throws herself at him, on his wounded shoulder, to knock him out of the way and to the ground Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Assassin: "...centuries after the augments who actually caused the damage had been-" He is knocked to the ground, but the shot is too fast and still manages to graze his arm Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Assassin: "You were right...they've...betrayed us..." Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Despite the superficial appearance of the wound, the assassin begins convulsing Mischa@crystyl:"Latenter, beam him direct to sickbay" she moves to a better cover position while he disappears, "Now give me a better angle" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Mischa is beamed to another rooftop, but before she can aim her rifle at the assassin's assassin, she spots the characteristic white flash of a tachyon transporter used by the infiltrators Mischa@crystyl:sighs, "They have evaded. Bring me back, there must be a ship in the area" Alien NPC@annpc#557:| Victoria: "Transporting you back to the Latenter, Commander." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mischa materializes on the Latenter's bridge Mischa@crystyl steps over to take her seat, "Red alert. Begin scanning for signs of the enemy ship" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria nods, "We're scanning now." She glances back to her console. "We've got another problem..." Mischa@crystyl:"What is it?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "I've been pushed out of the Science Academy systems, but we've detected another tachyon transport on the grounds. Near the secure equipment storage." Mischa@crystyl:"Relay everything you have to Ori. She will have to deal with that one for now" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria nods, "Yes Commander." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Lieutenant Sydor, the Vulcan stealth detection expert from the Loki who has taken over the science station in T'Bee's absence, announces, "Our sweeps have detected a vessel." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant: "I should be able to disable their temporal phasing." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant adds after a moment, "But we're going to reveal our own position to them as well." Mischa@crystyl:"Do it. The Vulcans have more than enough defense power to make it a regrettable decision for them to try and fight" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant nods, tapping his console, The Latenter's deflectors flare up, and a moment later, a shadowy shape emerges on the viewscreen, quickly solidifying into a starship... Alien NPC@annpc#557 FX | https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/sto_gamepedia/images/b/b0/Chargh%E2%80%99poH_Temporal_Destroyer.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20180331003722 Alien NPC@annpc#557 Sound FX | https://youtu.be/8DNO2eU_qkg Mischa@crystyl:"Is it just me, or does that look distinctly Klingon... no matter, send a priority message to the High Command; hostile target exposed. And attach the coordinates" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria quickly sends the message. As she works away, the Klingon-looking vessel opens fire, unleashing a series of red bolts at the Latenter. Nethay works quickly, spinning them into evasive - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - maneuvers. Only one shot impacts the Latenter, but it still causes the bridge to shake Mischa@crystyl:"Continue evasive, return fire as targets of opportunity present. We need to occupy them while the Vulcans assemble" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The replacement officer on tactical nods and the Latenter returns fire with the antiproton beam created from the salvage from some of the Romulan Survivor ships, accompanied by a supporting - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - barrage of phaser fire. A few seconds later, Vulcan's orbital defenses light up, all targeting the Klingonesque vessel with their own phasers and torpedoes Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A squadron of five Vulcan Defense Force ships, with their signature warp rings, become visible in the distance as well, closing in. The Klingon Survivor ship turns to retreat Mischa@crystyl:"Form up with the Vulcans and drive them out. It is not our place to decide whether to press the attack or just push them away, so we will follow the Vulcans lead" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Latenter forms up with the Vulcans, who continue to move in towards the Klingonesque vessel. They don't get a chance to open fire however; as soon as the enemy ship exits the effective - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - firing range of the orbital defenses, it jumps to transwarp and the Vulcan squadron comes to a stop Mischa@crystyl:"Signal the High Command again and inform them of the transport we detected at the Academy. Tell them there are Starfleet operatives in the area already investigating as well. And... better open a - Mischa@crystyl:- channel to the defense squadron. They're probably curious to know what just happened and a curious Vulcan is like a dog with a bone..." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria chuckles, "The lead ship is already hailing us, Commander. Putting it onscreen now." Mischa@crystyl:"Of course, it was the logical next step..." she smiles, looking to the screen ready Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A Vulcan Captain appears on the viewscreen, "I assume you were the ones responsible for informing us of the threat." Mischa@crystyl:"Yes. Apologies for the belated introduction, but it was necessary to draw out the enemy. I am Commander Leveson-Scott with Starfleet Intelligence" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vulcan Captain: "Thank you for the intelligence. I am Captain V'Tyra of the Vulcan Defense Force. Are you in need of any assistance? You were hit by one of the vessel's antiproton bolts, and - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - its weapons are more advanced than anything we have encountered." Mischa@crystyl:"I appreciate the offer, but we did not suffer for their attack. More importantly right now is the fact that they placed someone on the ground at the Science Academy. We have already alerted the - Mischa@crystyl:- High Command and have people on the ground working to assist, but once the enemy agent is done they will be seeking escape. I would recommend maintaining a heightened alert level across your - Mischa@crystyl:- defense grid in case that vessel returns" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | V'Tyra: "You believe that is a possibility? We will remain on alert and be prepared for further confrontation. It would be logical to share the procedure you utilized to reveal them, as our - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - tachyon detection grid is evidently insufficient." Mischa@crystyl:"My people will prepare a briefing immediately Captain. As for that being a possibility... I honestly could not say whether I believe it so or not right now, this is simply precaution against a - Mischa@crystyl:- dangerous foe" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | V'Tyra: "I understand. We must have all our defenses ready, from what we have seen of that vessel's capabilities. You will be explaining what you know of its origins in the briefing?" Mischa@crystyl:"well, 'know' may be a loose term. At least moreso than I expect you will find satisfactory. But yes, we will explain what little we know of this enemy vessel" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | V'Tyra: "Excellent. We will await your briefing, then." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria: "We have word from Ori on the surface, Commander." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Back in the Science Academy, Ori has escorted T'Lia to safety inside a nearby building when she gets word that there has been a tachyon transport near the secure storage area where - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - Sulvaan is hiding Rianni@crystyl stops T'Lia, "Admiral, I must tend to Sulvaan now. There is no time to explain, but please remain here and do not risk open spaces until I return" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Lia nods, "I understand. There is still the remainder of my security team to aid me here." Rianni@crystyl:"I will return swiftly" she nods before darting off towards the storage area Alien NPC@annpc#557 | As Ori rushes there, she catches the eye of a security guard, who begins to run after her Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Security Guard: "Halt!" Rianni@crystyl:"No time. There is a potentially dangerous enemy just transported in, you should come with" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The guard eyes Ori's clothes, "You are part of the Admiral's security detail, correct?" Rianni@crystyl:"Correct" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Security Guard: "Very well, lead the way." Rianni@crystyl continues with the guard now in tow Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ori and the guard reach the secure storage area to find the door open. There is a scorch mark on the floor and a lingering smell of chemicals. Something has clearly exploded. Inside, the - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - area is a mess, with various pieces of equipment and crates scattered all around. A figure wearing one of the Survivor suits stands in the centre of the room, slowly advancing towards a pile - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - of crates in one corner... Rianni@crystyl fires on the individual with a stun setting Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A shield flares up around the suited figure, absorbing the hit. He turns around and raising his arm, returns fire with red antiproton bolts through the doorway Rianni@crystyl promptly takes cover, cranking up her settings to their highest now she knows it's the right target. She looks to the security guard with her, "This foe has advanced personal defense tech. Do not - Rianni@crystyl:- underestimate them, and focus fire" promptly returning fire herself Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The guard nods, drawing his own pistol and returning fire as well. The figure's shields flash an orange colour, and the phaser shots suddenly begin bouncing off him and back towards them... Rianni@crystyl takes cover again, "Oh that is /so/ cheating" she huffs Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The figure turns back to the crates, just as a long wire of some description flies out from behind it, wrapping around one of his arms. A jolt of energy pulses along the wire, and his shields - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - seem to flicker and fail for a moment... Rianni@crystyl seizes the opportunity immediately and begins firing again Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ori's shots hit the back of the figure, staggering him. The shots seem to disintegrate chunks of armour, though it doesn't bring him down. He frees himself from the rope and dives into cover Rianni@crystyl looks for vulnerabilities around his cover as a means to trap him while laying down suppressive fire to keep him there Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ori spots a barrel labelled with an explosive warning near his cover... Rianni@crystyl shoots the barrel. Obviously Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ori hears a yell from behind the crates at the barrel explodes, sending the crates scattering. The suited figure is knocked out by the blast as well, his face now largely exposed, the helmet - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - of his suit damaged and only covering part of the back of his head. He seems to be Klingon. Before Ori can finish him off however, what remains of his suit emits an EMP burst, disabling both - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - her and the guard's phasers Rianni@crystyl holsters her now useless weapon and cautiously closes in to secure the Klingon and beam him to the Latenter Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Klingon adopts a combat ready stance, all the while speaking, "This is Lieutenant K'Magh requesting extraction." However, he doesn't disappear in a flash, prompting him to add, "Does - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - anyone copy?" He takes a step back when he once again gets no response. What remains of his armour starts moving down his arms, forming a bat'leth in his hands... Rianni@crystyl:"Really Lieutenant K'Magh? What honour is there is meeting a fellow warrior in combat with a bat'leth when they are unarmed..." Rianni@crystyl circles around, adopting a prone stance as well Alien NPC@annpc#557 | K'Magh: "I know what you are. It would hardly be a fair fight without my suit, even for a seasoned-" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Before Ori has a chance to strike, Sulvaan leaps out from behind a crate, grabbing the Klingon by both sides of the face from behind. K'Magh immediately drops the bat'leth Alien NPC@annpc#557 | K'Magh: "No, no, no!" Rianni@crystyl jumps in to help restrain him Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "You've destroyed everything I am, everything I've worked for. Now, it's your turn." Rianni@crystyl:"Sulvaan don't overdo it!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Klingon howls in pain, in a way Ori has never heard a Klingon howl before. He flails wildly and it's impossible even for Ori to restrain him, but Sulvaan keeps his grip around the - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - sides of the Klingon's face, much like the fashion of a mind meld Rianni@crystyl:"Sulvaan!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan is still not letting go, but he's standing very still as the Klingon flails. Ori is unable to get close to the Klingon, but she should be able to pry Sulvaan's arms off him Rianni@crystyl sees no other choice and moves to wrestle Sulvaan's arm free of the Klingon Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ori manages to wrestle Sulvaan free. He struggles, but his Vulcan strength isn't able to overpower Ori's own strength and skill, and he doesn't struggle for long. He stops after a few moments - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - after being pried away, and the Klingon collapses onto the ground Rianni@crystyl continues to hold him while tapping her combadge to call the Latenter Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Victoria's voice comes through her combadge, "Latenter here. Is Sulvaan secure?" Rianni@crystyl:"Quite literally. I need emergency transport for one Vulcan and one Klingon lifesign at my location. Secure them both for please as I must check on the Admiral" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | <C - Victoria> "Understood. Transporting now." Rianni@crystyl:"We'll talk about this later" she grumbles to Sulvaan as he is transported out Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The unconscious K'Magh and Sulvaan transports out. The Vulcan security guard walks up behind Ori, "Was he the extent of the threat, or are there others?" Rianni@crystyl turns to him, "To my knowledge, he was the only one. But I recommend securing this area and liaising with the Defense Force. He attempted to call for extraction, but was unable. Logically speaking,- Rianni@crystyl:- he must have had a cloaked ship in orbit which penetrated the defense grid, but they have been driven off since they could not respond so the Defense Force likely knows more on the situation. I - Rianni@crystyl:- must attend to the Admiral, but thank you for your assistance" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The security guard nods, "I will call for support to secure the area and contact the Defense Force immediately." Rianni@crystyl leaves him to it and returns to find T'Lia Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ori's return trip is uneventful, save for seeing a group of security guards rush past her to secure the scene. She soon finds T'Lia in the same building she left her in Rianni@crystyl heads over, "Admiral" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Lia looks to Ori, "Has Sulvaan been successfully extracted?" Rianni@crystyl:"Yes. Apologies for the rash action before, but I received word that an infiltrator agent had breached the complex and was moving against Sulvaan" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Lia nods, "You were correct to do so. There was no danger to me here while you were gone. You said this was an infiltrator agent? I presume they are connected directly to the infiltrators, - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - rather than an augment working alongside them?" Rianni@crystyl nods, "You presume correctly. I believe the Defense Force has already engaged and either destroyed or driven off his ship. Presumably the latter, given their track record" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Lia: "And the agent himself?" Rianni@crystyl:"We have secured him, though... I am uncertain as to his condition or suitability for interrogation now. Sulvaan... did something to him. It looked somewhat like a mind meld, but the agent seemed to- Rianni@crystyl:- find it far more unpleasant, to say the least" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Lia: "I cannot say precisely what he did without examining the agent for myself. But Sulvaan has always been more talented with mind melds than the average Vulcan, and I believe his - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - abilities have been enhanced by the recent psionic phenomenon. I do not know what his full capabilities may be at the moment." Rianni@crystyl:"We'll keep that in mind. Hopefully our medics can stabilize the Klingon, as this would be the first agent of theirs to be captured alive and so an invaluable source of intelligence on the enemy. - Rianni@crystyl:- But the important thing for now is that the threat on your own life has been averted" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Lia: "And for that I thank you. Will you be remaining with my security team for the duration of my time here in case there is another attempt, or are you confident that the threat is gone?" Rianni@crystyl:"I am confident that the threat is gone, but I replaced one of your security detail to be here. It would be illogical for me to abandon that duty now as it would then leave you with less than - Rianni@crystyl:- optimal security per standard operations. So I will remain for now, and besides, I am guessing that you will want to debrief with my CO once your duties here are attended to, given the change in - Rianni@crystyl:- these circumstances. After all, it was not just you that they went after" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Lia: "Indeed. I will continue with my meetings here for the time being then, and speak with your CO once I am finished." Rianni@crystyl bows her head lightly, "Until then, I am at your disposal Admiral" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Lia: "Let us proceed to my meeting with Vattel, then. I am already seven minutes late." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Back on the Latenter, Mischa heads to the transporter room after Sulvaan and the infiltrator operative is beamed back Alien NPC@annpc#557 | When she arrives, the operative is already gone, but Sulvaan is still present, with two security personnel watching him Mischa@crystyl eyes the situation, "You must be Sulvaan. Welcome" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan eyes Mischa in return, "Who are you? This is a Starfleet vessel, is it not? Are you associated with T'Lia?" Mischa@crystyl:"We are not under her command structure, but she is why we are here. I know Ori was planning to make this request of you once the assassin was dealt with, but on the Admiral's behalf she was going - Mischa@crystyl:- to request that you take refuge here" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Ori...she is the one I spoke to at the Science Academy?" Mischa@crystyl:"Yes, and the one who had you transported here along with that Klingon. From the state of him, I take it you all fought and you know full well who he is - as does the Admiral I would surmise which - Mischa@crystyl:- is why she wanted you here where you would be safely out of their reach" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan nods, "Yes. She believed I put myself in danger by coming to Vulcan. And from the appearance of that Klingon, I must admit that she was right." Mischa@crystyl:"Yes, and from his appearance it is clear that this enemy has its claws in Vulcan as much as everywhere else. Whilst I am quite aware of their particular interest in the Admiral, you remain - Mischa@crystyl:- something more of a mystery as to the why still" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I assume you've tried running my face through your databases and found nothing?" Mischa@crystyl:"Quite literally nothing. To be more precise, very crude blanks where a face and name should be. Like the paternal record on your daughter’s Starfleet file" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I am impressed you managed to piece together even that much. The infiltrators saw to it that I was erased as thoroughly as possible. Well, I also contributed a little myself after - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - they wiped me from Federation records, to remain hidden." Mischa@crystyl:"So that is why your erasure from your family was so tainted, it was their doing. And for what it is worth, it was not exactly easy to piece together. Fortunately, we are very good at what we do. - Mischa@crystyl:- However it was the Admiral's own reaction to your presence and request for your protection that ultimately confirmed this for us. Since you are clearly an enemy of the infiltrators, then that - Mischa@crystyl:- gives you some degree of credibility with me. But I want to know what your history with them is before I decide if you worth giving any trust to" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I was a Starfleet officer, in another life. The captain I served was an infiltrator. When he was killed in action, I mind melded with him to preserve his memories. I learned of their - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - infiltration within Starfleet and attempted to expose it. But the infiltrators outmaneuvered me easily and discredited me. I was barely able to escape with my life and little else. You can see - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - what happened to my name and everything else afterwards." Mischa@crystyl:"That was a long time ago, even by Vulcan measures. You have done well to remain off the grid all this time, although it is clear they have not forgotten about you. This mind meld must have shown - Mischa@crystyl:- you much more than their mere presence, for them to still consider you a threat worth exposing themselves here over" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I remained off the grid, but I was not inactive all this time. I...felt betrayed, not only by the infiltrators but those loyal Starfleet officers who would not believe me. For a - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - time, I worked not only against the infiltrators, but the entire Federation as a whole. These are not actions I was proud of, but many of them indirectly undermined the infiltrators as well. I - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - suspect that is part of the reason they see me as a threat. As for what I saw in the mind melds, I learned more than their presence, yes, but there is still much that I cannot yet make sense - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - of. It was...quite overwhelming." Mischa@crystyl:"I imagine so. I do not know if it will be of help or even appeal, but we do have highly capable people here who - with our proper understanding of this enemy - may be able to share that experience - Mischa@crystyl:- with you and help in comprehending it" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan nods, "That may be of use, though my capability to carry out mind melds have been...amplified of late, and I am unsure whether it would be safe to do so." Mischa@crystyl:"We can take things one step at a time. From the initial assessment of the Klingon, can I surmise that his condition is the result of such an amplified mind meld?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "In part, yes. He was also equipped with one of the implants which prevents me from gaining any information from his mind. As a result, I targeted his nervous system...and lost - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - control of how much damage I was dealing to it." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I realize now that it would be more logical to take him alive and in good condition to interrogate. I apologize." Mischa@crystyl:"I see. That makes several times during this conversation where you have expressed emotional derivatives now. Ordinarily I would chalk this up to your time living off the grid and a necessary - Mischa@crystyl:- adaptation to survival. But I've seen that spark of passion in a Vulcan's eyes before, so I hope you won't mind my asking for the purposes of better understanding you and avoiding future offense - Mischa@crystyl:- one way or the other, but are you v'tosh ka'tur like T'Keel?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I suppose I would be considered one by now. I was not always this way, but the mind meld with the infiltrator, along with my time living off the grid, have changed me significantly." Mischa@crystyl:"I understand, thank you for clarifying. I know such things can make for a sensitive topic to some Vulcans, so figured it best to get the understanding out of the way early on. So in addition to - Mischa@crystyl:- your deep insight into the mind of the enemy, you have also been able to stay very close to their operations presently. So much so that you knew about the impending attack on T'Lia, and with - Mischa@crystyl:- sufficient foresight to not only determine the exact nature of the attack, but also develop a countermeasure" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan nods, "That is correct. I assume you know of the Scryer Intelligence Network?" Mischa@crystyl smiles, "You could say that, yes" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Until recently, it was led by a Cardassian who wished to see the Federation dismantled. I worked with him for a time and retained many of my contacts. From them, I learned what - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - the augment assassin was up to by tracing several illegal weapon purchases." Mischa@crystyl:"Impressive. So were you an Eye?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan shakes his head, "No, not an Eye. Just an engineer," he says with the slight hint of a smirk. Yup, he's definitely picked up some Cardassian mannerisms... Mischa@crystyl:"Yes, of course..." she chuckles, "Well, let's get you somewhere to settle down for now. Between the glint in the eyes and that smirk, if we keep talking like this I'm going to be seeing more of - Mischa@crystyl:- your daughter in you than either of us care for" she smiles, leading the way out --- NPC@annpc#557 | After seeing Sulvaan to his guest quarters, Mischa heads to sickbay to check on their wounded captives... Mischa@crystyl strolls in, looking around NPC@annpc#557 | Upon entering, she sees the augment assassin in the central surgical bed with Buena working beside him and the Klingon on one of the side beds. Sabina lurks in a corner with some sunglasses on NPC@annpc#557 | Buena turns, "Commander." Mischa@crystyl steps over, "How are our guests doing?" NPC@annpc#557 | Buena: "Not great. Well, the Klingon will be fine, physically. But there's nothing I can do for Armando." Mischa@crystyl frowns a little, "What is his condition? His wound did not appear to be a critical strike" NPC@annpc#557 | Buena: "Not by the area of impact, but he was hit by an energy weapon infused with lethal omicron radiation. We've never encountered a weapon like this, only ever heard of them. Q imitated one - NPC@annpc#557 - such weapon during one of the times he messed with the crew of the Voyager, and the An supposedly possess such technology back home, though the Mothership we know doesn't have access to it. In - NPC@annpc#557 - short, it's spreading through the body. Even his augmentations aren't much use against a weapon like this." Mischa@crystyl glances back slightly, just enough that it's clear she's addressing Sabina, "I don't suppose you have any insights into the augmentations that might help us counter this effect?" NPC@annpc#557 | Sabina shakes her head, "Unfortunately not. The spliced Vulcan DNA should be making him more resistant to radiation than usual, but evidently, it's not enough." NPC@annpc#557 | Buena: "The good news is, he's still alive. I'm keeping him under stasis. We can wake him long enough for a telepath to extract whatever information he might have." Mischa@crystyl looks back to Buena, "How long do you estimate that you can keep him stable for like this?" NPC@annpc#557 | Buena: "Indefinitely, under stasis. A few minutes as soon as the radiation is allowed to progress again." Mischa@crystyl:"Then please prioritize his survival. Right now there is no significant value in interrogating him, and we have bigger fish to fry. Ori is remaining with the Admiral until her business is concluded,- Mischa@crystyl:- at which time we will establish contact. Once we have debriefed with the Admiral, I will see if she can seek additional aid from the Science Academy for him. Between their expertise and his Vulcan- Mischa@crystyl:- elements, they may have solutions not available to us" NPC@annpc#557 | Buena: "Good thinking, Commander. I'll keep him in stasis for now. As for the Klingon..." she walks over to him Mischa@crystyl follows her NPC@annpc#557 | Buena: "What our new Vulcan friend did to him was frying his nervous system. Any more and he'd be braindead. As he is now, I've been able to repair all the nerve damage, but there's - NPC@annpc#557 - nothing I can do for the data within. He might as well be a recovered Horde thrall. Memories, everything, all gone." Mischa@crystyl sighs, "Vulcans... Alright, keep him stable for now. I doubt he will know anything about it, but the one responsible is here too now so I want to first see if he is able to at least attempt to - Mischa@crystyl:- fix this before we give up" NPC@annpc#557 | Buena: "Unless he was able to absorb some of the memories while inflicting the damage, I dou-" NPC@annpc#557 | The door slides open and Eirril steps inside, "Buena. Commander. You're here too. Perfect." Mischa@crystyl looks over, "Eirril? I can't remember the last time I saw you away from the Network..." NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "I eat and sleep too, you know. And stop by sickbay for the occasional checkup. But that's not why I'm here now." Mischa@crystyl smiles, somewhat assured by the capacity to keep the mood light, "Duly noted. So, what does bring you here?" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril smiles, stepping up to the Klingon, "I've got information for you." He looks down at the Klingon. "About him." Mischa@crystyl:"Well I'm glad somebody has, because he hasn't got much to say for himself right now" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "Buena told me as much. But she sent me his face and medical scans on the off chance I'd find something. And I've found something. Something that might answer a question we've been - NPC@annpc#557 - wrestling with since all this started." Mischa@crystyl:"Quite the build up. I know you don't plan on disappointing now" she teases NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "I promise, you won't be disappointed." He takes out a PADD and hands it to Mischa Mischa@crystyl takes it, giving the screen a curious look NPC@annpc#557 | The PADD contains the KDF record of one Commander K'Magh, who retired from active service following the Iconian War. The image on file is that of the Klingon on the bed now Mischa@crystyl:"Are you saying this is the same person, or that he's been altered to appear as K'Magh?" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "That's the interesting part. K'Magh is supposedly still alive on Forcas III. But his medical file since his retirement doesn't quite match up with the one he had as a KDF officer. His - NPC@annpc#557 - various treatments are reportedly for battle injuries, but the K'Magh on Forcas has symptoms that don't match his known injuries. He's been on my list as a suspect of yet another retiree who's - NPC@annpc#557 - been replaced. The K'Magh we have here, on the other hand," he motions to the Klingon on the bed, "is a perfect match for the medical file of Commander K'Magh." Mischa@crystyl:"When you say a perfect match, is that for the pre or post retirement picture of K'Magh?" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "Pre-retirement, specifically the last medical record before he went home to Forcas, which includes all the injuries he suffered during the Iconian conflict. It looks like this K'Magh - NPC@annpc#557 - we have here is the original, and somebody replaced him after he retired from the KDF. Which means he was probably replaced after he retired, which seems to fit with the pattern of all the - NPC@annpc#557 - other replacements." NPC@annpc#557 | Buena: "I don't get it. Why would they replace retired personnel?" Mischa@crystyl:"A valid question" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "That's what's been puzzling me for the longest time, too. But seeing him here...I have a theory." Mischa@crystyl:"I expected as much" she smiles NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "So this, the original K'Magh, transported down to Vulcan and fought with Ori in one of those infiltrators' suits, right? And meanwhile, we found a ship in orbit, of Klingon design at - NPC@annpc#557 - that, which we drove off. Which means most likely, the K'Magh we have here, the original, was on that ship's crew." Mischa@crystyl:"A fair supposition" she nods NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "From everything we've learned so far about them, the infiltrators, these Survivors, come from a different quantum reality. They've been concealing members among the Federation, the - NPC@annpc#557 - Klingons, the Romulans and likely even beyond for generations now, including moles so deep they've made it to flag officer ranks. But they also run their own ships, like the ones we've been - NPC@annpc#557 - fighting. Ships which aren't automated, at least not entirely, and possess crew." Mischa@crystyl:"What you are suggesting then is that they are recruiting in this quantum reality to crew these ships?" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "Not quite. It's possible they're doing that too. But...think about the logistics of running an operation like this. You /could/ run your own training facilities, train your own crew - NPC@annpc#557 - for these ships from scratch. But you've got operatives throughout galactic militaries. Personnel the enemy has effectively trained for you and provided with years of field experience. Sure, - NPC@annpc#557 - they're a little older, but that's nothing with their technology. Why not make use of these agents once their undercover work is complete? The few who make it to admiralty probably will stay - NPC@annpc#557 - there, but most people don't make it that far, and maybe their goal isn't even to get that far anyways. No point wasting these good resources." NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "Though, if these people just disappear from the face of the galaxy without a trace after they retire, that's going to raise some eyebrows. Hence the replacements, who seem to come - NPC@annpc#557 - from species that have it rough, like the Orions or Nausicaans. The majority of Syndicate's thugs didn't want to be there, before recently they had little choice other than serving the - NPC@annpc#557 - Syndicate. Most Nausicaan pirates aren't bloodthirsty murderers, they're just desperate and trying to make a living the only way they know how. Now if you offer people like that a comfortable - NPC@annpc#557 - life as a retired officer of a major galactic military, at the cost of changing your appearance and pretending to be somebody else...tempting deal, isn't it?" Mischa@crystyl:"Indeed. But even if that answers the how, it does not answer the why. Why do they even need to use people from this reality to begin with, thus creating the need to replace retirees et al" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "My guess...they're not from this reality. None of the infiltrators who've been exposed so far have given off a different quantum signature. Only their ships do. But their quantum - NPC@annpc#557 - signature is different because the matter they're composed of originates from a different universe. And it's not the whole ship, some pieces originate from our universe, likely due to the - NPC@annpc#557 - fact that they're replacement components made here and implemented during repairs. If they built a whole new ship with their technology in our universe, we wouldn't be able to tell it didn't - NPC@annpc#557 - originate from here. The same principle probably applies to people, too. They've been undercover for generations, their operatives now are likely the descendants of the original - NPC@annpc#557 - infiltrators. We might not be able to tell the difference between them and people native to our own reality anymore." Mischa@crystyl nods, "Yes, and that means that this is not an active infiltration. They may have entered this reality generations ago to enact this plan, bringing across what limited supplies and people they were- Mischa@crystyl:- able to at the time. But since then have been acting autonomously, recycling their technology where needed" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "Stands to reason with what we know. Their ships are old, very powerful in comparison to ours due to how advanced the technology is, but given how much they've used materials native to - NPC@annpc#557 - our universe for repairs, they've definitely been here a while. And they're not just recycling technology, they're recycling people, too. All their personnel within our ranks, whenever they're - NPC@annpc#557 - finished working as a mole, they become their own crew. That would explain why they're so intent on rescuing burned operatives, too. They're not like the Tal Shiar or Klingon Intelligence, who - NPC@annpc#557 - expect their exposed agents to commit suicide. They've still got a use for them." Mischa@crystyl:"And if we are right about this; that means when they disappear into those portals of theirs, they are not coming and going from their reality but using something more akin to artificial wormholes. - Mischa@crystyl:- It would also mean that they in fact have limited numbers to keep up this fight with, not an entire reality full of reserves, and so each time we take down one of their ships and it's crew it is - Mischa@crystyl:- in fact far more crippling to them than say a single vessel would be for us to lose. Given the timelines we are dealing with, and the limitations seemingly in place against them, they could well - Mischa@crystyl:- already be struggling. Which stands to reason as a further justification for their using the Children of Khan. They are losing heavily, and growing desperate" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril nods, "It also explains why that Klingon ship retreated so quickly. Judging from K'Magh here, it's not just a ship of Klingon design, but crewed by Klingons, too. And they're not - NPC@annpc#557 - usually ones to run from a good fight. Taking into account recent events though, we took down one of their warbirds and a raider at the Vault, they lost a cruiser in the Heart, and the - NPC@annpc#557 - Lleiset's sacrifice heavily crippled a frigate, with a good portion of the crew dead either from that or the boarding action that followed. They might not be able to take many more hits like - NPC@annpc#557 - those, and whoever's in command of that Klingon ship knows it." Mischa@crystyl:"Well Eirril, you certainly don't disappoint. Whilst this is still largely supposition, we have a framed context on the enemy now. A most basic fundamental we have been lacking until now" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril smiles, "I told you I wouldn't disappoint. I'll look further into this theory, but it makes the most sense with the information we've got to work with, doesn't it?" Mischa@crystyl:"Yes, and it may well have inspired me for a new direction to take this investigation, depending on what happens with the Admirals when they get together" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "What're you thinking, Commander?" Mischa@crystyl:"I'm thinking that all this time they have been gracious enough to come and visit our universe. So it is about time to return the favour" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "A mission into their universe? An interesting idea..." Mischa@crystyl:"This new insight paints the enemy in a vastly different light to that which we have - until now - been viewing them in. Given what little we understand of their motives regarding multiverse - Mischa@crystyl:- experiments to design an optimum outcome against the Horde, which we have now achieved here despite their efforts, I begin to question the relationship between those acting here as the Survivors - Mischa@crystyl:- those they are acting on behalf of in their origin universe. So I think I want to see that for myself now, and who knows; if we are able to properly understand them there and even establish a - Mischa@crystyl:- dialogue, it is not inconceivable that we may find a potential ally with the sway over these people to end this campaign" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril nods, "It might just be what we need to finish this, without having to systematically hunt down and destroy their remaining ships one by one. Which, even if they have limited resources, - NPC@annpc#557 - isn't going to be easy with their advanced technology." Mischa@crystyl:"Besides, ships are not the enemy but simply the tools of the enemy. We could destroy every ship in the galaxy with that quantum signature, but it would be meaningless without handling the people - Mischa@crystyl:- behind it all" Mischa@crystyl:"First things first though, we must accommodate the Admirals gathering" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "I'll look into instances of travel between different universes, too. Anything else you want me to look into?" Mischa@crystyl nods, "Another matter that recently came to my attention; the missing link from T'Lia's past who we were investigating. As I'm sure you are already aware, he resurfaced here and is now on board" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "Yes, Victoria informed me of that as well." Mischa@crystyl:"Well according to him, the reason he was able to stay so well informed on the Survivors and their activity is through contacts he sustained from his time working for the Scryer Network" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "So he was a part of the Network? That would explain how all traces of his identity were wiped from Network files. The Scryer must've done it to keep his anonymity so he could hide from - NPC@annpc#557 - the Survivors. But he wouldn't do that for just anybody. Our missing link must've been pretty important to the old Scryer." Mischa@crystyl:"Yes, and he evidently still holds enough sway with significant resources that have eluded us since things changed hands. So I am hoping you can put this new information to good use as always" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "That I shall, Commander. I'll update you when I have something." Mischa@crystyl:"Thank you Eirril" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril turns and heads out and Buena looks to Mischa, "Well, we got something from capturing him. Now what should we do with him, he'll need full re-education once we wakes. Should we pass him - NPC@annpc#557 - over to the Vulcans, make arrangements to hand him to the Klingons?" Mischa@crystyl:"We'll determine that once I've consulted with Sulvaan on the nature of his condition" NPC@annpc#557 | Buena nods, "I'll make arrangements with the Vulcans for Armando first, then." --- Mischa@crystyl stops by Sulvaan's quarters a short time later Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Come in." Mischa@crystyl steps in, "Just wanted to stop by and see how you were settling in" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "It's strange, staying on a Starfleet ship again. Of course, the Starfleet vessels of today aren't quite the same as they were in my time, and I suspect yours is more different than - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - most as well." Mischa@crystyl smiles, "You suspect correctly" stepping over and gesturing to a seat, "May I?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan nods, "Of course, Commander." Mischa@crystyl chuckles and sits, "You are neither a serving officer or a member of my crew, Mischa is just fine" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Apologies. Old habits, you understand." Mischa@crystyl:"Think nothing of it. There are undoubtedly worse habits one could retain than showing professional respect" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Indeed. Though I suspect the few I've retained from my time with the Cardassians will be quite suitable here as well, won't they?" Mischa@crystyl:"Quite possibly. That assumes of course that you decide to remain here. As it is, I can not claim to know your intentions or that of the Admiral. We simply reacted to a request from her to extract - Mischa@crystyl:- you. Since I have not yet had the opportunity to speak with her, I do not know if she has any designs on your future from here. Though it is clear already that you still mean a great deal to each - Mischa@crystyl:- other, regardless of time spent apart" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I intend to continue my work against these infiltrators. I believe the Admiral intends to do the same, though how we proceed from here is yet to be decided." Mischa@crystyl:"And we are also doing the same. As it stands, I only know that T'Lia and a selection of other Starfleet leaders were planning to meet to discuss the situation and determine their own plan of - Mischa@crystyl:- action. Though this was initially waylaid, the Survivors relentlessness drove us to intervene on all counts. As such, I believe most - if not all - of the Admirals connected here will be in a - Mischa@crystyl:- position to still conduct that conference. Possibly with broader assets from our allies now as well. I am certain that this will determine how we proceed moving forwards, though I am already - Mischa@crystyl:- working some different angles as you can imagine. One such angle was meant to be our Klingon captive, but as you have no doubt surmised already he is in no position to talk" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan nods, "My apologies once again. My control, over both my emotions and my abilities, aren't what they once were." Mischa@crystyl:"I understand, that much at least. What I naturally don't understand is the nature of your psionic ability. My medical staff tell me that you fried his nervous system and essentially wiped his mind" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "You understand the nature of our touch telepathy and mind melding, I assume?" Mischa@crystyl:"As much as a non-telepath can" she nods Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "The best I can determine of my enhanced abilities is that they're an extension of it. I cannot affect you in any way from here, sitting across from you, for example. But when I - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - connect with someone else's nervous system, I can do more than just reach into their mind. With the Klingon, his mind was encrypted by one of those new implants you use, but I still had full - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - access to the nervous system itself. So I overloaded it, the same way too much power could burn out an EPS grid." Mischa@crystyl:"That explains the damage to his nervous system. What about the wiping of his mind though?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "His mind has been wiped? That is what I was afraid of." Mischa@crystyl:"How so?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "It was not the intended effect, but...consider if you will, a power surge great enough to completely fry a console. You've seen what it's like. Sparks, shattering displays and all. - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - The console can be rebuilt, but if the damage is extensive enough, any data stored in it will be gone. We don't have that problem on starships, because the data is stored in the computer core, - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - not the console. But an individual computer or a PADD, you may repair it, but the information is gone. Perhaps scraps can be recovered, but not the entire contents." Mischa@crystyl:"Is it possible that you might be able to carry out a form of data recovery on this Klingon?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan nods, "If you disable his implant, I can attempt to recover what remains through a more conventional mind meld. It may not provide much, but combined with what I learned from my former - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - captain, perhaps it will shed more light on these infiltrations." Mischa@crystyl:"We quite literally have nothing to lose, so please do what you can" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Shall we proceed to make the attempt now?" Mischa@crystyl:"If you are ready now and require no time to prepare, then by all means" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan stands, "I am ready." Mischa@crystyl:"Excellent" she stands and leads the way back to sickbay Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan follows into sickbay, where Buena is working in the office. She steps out as the two arrive Mischa@crystyl looks to Buena, "We are going to attempt a recovery of the Klingon's mind" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Buena: "I've already disabled his implant, so you should be able to access it freely. Whatever's left to access, that is. You did quite a number on him." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I apologize. As I have told the Commander, I lost control with him." Mischa@crystyl:"All we can do now is attempt to recover the situation" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan steps over to the Klingon, "I will recover what information I can." Mischa@crystyl:"Buena, please monitor them both closely and stand by" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Buena nods and steps over to monitor them as Sulvaan sets a hand on the side of the Klingon's face and closes his eyes Mischa@crystyl finds a place out of their way to quietly observe from Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "There is significant damage...much more than my dying Captain. Lingering emotions are more prominent than coherent thoughts. There was more doubt within him than the Captain." Mischa@crystyl:"That makes sense. As we fought, he was starting to realize the futility of his action" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "He was less resolved in his course of action, but I am sensing the same...righteousness that I felt in my Captain. It is stronger than his doubt. And anger. Towards us. From his - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - side, we are the enemy, and he is the warrior fighting for the right cause. It is illogical to me, yet it seems to be what he truly believes." Mischa@crystyl:"Naturally. Loyal soldiers are just so because they believe whole-heartedly in their cause" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I have found what memories remain. Mostly Klingon places, and Klingon people. Family, friends and crewmembers, I suspect. There is the interior of a vessel with Klingon lighting, but - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - unlike any Klingon ship I have seen. The most logical supposition is that it belongs to the vessel he came from." Mischa@crystyl:"A fair supposition. Anything you can make out from there may be beneficial" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I see Dyson Spheres. More than one, judging from the differences in architectural appearance. I have seen some of these in my former Captain's thoughts and memories as well. I - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - believe they are crucial to the infiltrators' plans in some way." Mischa@crystyl:"Interesting. We can explore this further" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I am afraid I cannot acquire more information on what they intend for these installations. There are a few more memories, Federation-looking interiors. Their other vessels, I assume." Mischa@crystyl:"That seems most likely" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "That is everything of use which remains still in his mind." He opens his eyes, slowly withdrawing his hand. "I apologize once again for the damage." Mischa@crystyl:"Apologizing further will not change the situation. I appreciate your efforts in recovering his memory" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "I hope that what I recovered may be of some use to you." Mischa@crystyl:"Perhaps. I don't know how much you've gotten around in the last few years, but there are a number of strategically significant Dyson Spheres currently in operation. It might be worth reviewing - Mischa@crystyl:- visual records of those to see if anything stands out against what you saw in the meld" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan nods, "I have heard much about them. I will see which ones I can identify from the visions." Mischa@crystyl:"Thank you. I understand if you require a period of rest following that, so you need not remain on ceremony here for our benefit" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan: "Rest would be appreciated. Attempting to access and make sense of these scattered fragments is almost as taxing as attempting to pull information from a resisting mind." Mischa@crystyl:"Of course. If you require anything from us to aid with this, please ask. Otherwise I will make an effort not to disturb you further until such time as it warrants the disruption" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Sulvaan nods, "Thank you, Commander. I will inform you if I require anything." --- T'Vek@anncaris | The day after the assassination attempt, T'Lia joins Mischa and the Latenter's senior staff to discuss the situation... Mischa@crystyl | Everyone stands to attention for T'Lia's entrance into the room T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "As you were," She moves over to a chair, taking a seat herself as well Mischa@crystyl sits as well, "Thank you Admiral. You will have to forgive us, for it is not too often we play host to a flag officer on the Latenter" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia nods, "Given the role of your vessel, it is far from surprising." Mischa@crystyl:"Indeed. Well, thank you for joining us Admiral. We have a number of loose ends left over from this latest action" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "There are still lingering questions and concerns. I will do all I can to help address them." Mischa@crystyl:"Given how this is all centered around you, and was sprung on you without warning, I would be happy to answer address any points of interest from your side first if you wish" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "I was told that the infiltrators are attempting to eliminate other flag officers who are aware of their presence as well. I presume appropriate measures have been taken to ensure their - T'Vek@anncaris - safety?" Mischa@crystyl nods, "Yes, of course. The infiltrators launched near simultaneous attacks on each of you for the most part, but as of now the other officers are all safe with our trusted allies. Admiral Quinn is - Mischa@crystyl:- the only exception, since our intelligence suggests that they targeted you first with view to usurping his upcoming surgery. So whilst we are in the vicinity, I believe it would be prudent to - Mischa@crystyl:- retrieve him as well now" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "A logical choice. I will proceed to Sol as well to check all personnel on the surgical team and ensure that the infiltrators or the Children of Khan do not manage to affect the - T'Vek@anncaris - operation. As you have a wider awareness of the situation, would you suggest that I travel with you, or return on the same vessel I arrived at Vulcan on?" Mischa@crystyl:"With the rate that things are now escalating, I would recommend that you remain on the Latenter and allow us to maintain your protection whilst visiting Sol. Since I lack the medical knowledge to - Mischa@crystyl:- know any better, I feel it prudent to ask; could we retrieve Admiral Quinn first and perform his surgery here in our medical bay?" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "That would be another solution to ensure his security. The medical facilities of a Starfleet vessel is no different from any dedicated Starfleet Medical facility. The main difference - T'Vek@anncaris - lies in the personnel. Due to the importance of Admiral Quinn, his operation is being conducted by one of the foremost heart specialists we possess; however, the operation could be performed - T'Vek@anncaris - by any medical team, even an EMH if necessary. Mischa@crystyl:"Well my staff are not heart specialists by any means, so if you wish to make an assessment of our capability here then please do so and we will determine our course of action based on your decision.†Mischa@crystyl:- Admiral Quinn's life is on the table here, so that has to be the priority" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia nods, "If necessary, you may retrieve the surgical team as well and conduct the surgery on board this vessel. It will give you ample opportunity to ensure the surgical team are not - T'Vek@anncaris - assassins." Mischa@crystyl:"Agreed. And on the subject of medical matters, we have the augment who made the attempt on your life, and the infiltrator who tried to silence him, both in critical condition in sickbay. The - Mischa@crystyl:- augment may still be redeemable, but he was hit with a radioactive round that we lack the knowledge to counter" she looks to Buena for the medical breakdown T'Vek@anncaris | Buena: "He was hit by some sort of omicron weapon. The radiation is spreading through his body and destroying it. We have placed him under stasis to halt his demise, but there is no - T'Vek@anncaris - treatment to reverse it, or even to stop its spread without keeping him in permanent stasis." Mischa@crystyl:"It may be a stretch, but we were wondering if there may be a chance that the Science Academy could be in a position to help him. at least more than we are able to" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "Perhaps, but there are specialists under my purview who may be better suited to the task. Not to disregard the significant medical capabilities of the Science Academy, of course, but - T'Vek@anncaris - Project Fal-tor-pan, which I personally oversaw during my time as Deputy Surgeon General, was created to treat cases deemed untreatable. If anyone has a chance of saving him, it is the doctors - T'Vek@anncaris - and researchers in that program." Mischa@crystyl:"Even better! With your permission then, we can arrange to have him transferred into that project's care. The Klingon however is a bit more complicated I fear..." T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "There is a relevant specialist based on Jupiter Station in Sol. We may transport him there while we retrieve Quinn. What is the Klingon's situation?" Mischa@crystyl:"During the confrontation, he was subjected to a powerful and aggravated mind meld which all but fried his nervous system. We have already seen to the physical damage, but as a result of this his - Mischa@crystyl:- mind has been completely blanked as well. A controlled mind meld was able to access some incoherent flashes of memory, but that is it. Whilst I don't hold any high hopes, well, we are in the best - Mischa@crystyl:- place in the galaxy for expertise on this particular subject so I would be remiss not to seek your counsel before deciding anything further for him" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia nods, "Sulvaan is more well-versed on mind melds than I am. Was he the one who accessed the incoherent memories, or was it another Vulcan on your crew?" Mischa@crystyl:"It was he who recovered the memories, and of course who did the damage in the first place" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "As I thought. If he was unable to recover more than a few incoherent fragments, I doubt there is much more to recover. However, as I am sure you have some concept of, a mind meld goes - T'Vek@anncaris - both ways. The Klingon will have picked up some elements of Sulvaan's mind in the process. If there is truly so little remaining of his own, he may be more Vulcan than Klingon at this point. I - T'Vek@anncaris - suggest that he remain on Vulcan for re-education procedures." Mischa@crystyl:"We will have to take certain measures to avoid him becoming a compromise in the future, but yes that can be arranged. Finally there is Sulvaan himself; we extracted him per your request of course, - Mischa@crystyl:- but I do not know if you have any designs on his future from this point or not" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia shakes her head, "I shall discuss it with him, but seeing as he works towards the same goal we do, I suspect he will wish to travel with us to Sol. We will discuss how to proceed beyond - T'Vek@anncaris - that while we are both on board." Mischa@crystyl:"Very good. We will arrange quarters for you, and accommodate you as best as we are able here. Once Admiral Quinn is with us, we can proceed to rendezvous with the rest of the allied forces and allow- Mischa@crystyl:- your conference to go ahead as originally intended" T'Vek@anncaris | T'Lia: "Sulvaan will most likely proceed to the conference with us, but I will inquire whether he has other plans." Mischa@crystyl:"Then if there is nothing further for the moment, we can leave it at that for now and begin preparations to depart"
