ST:SoD114 | "The Zauger"

Stardate 98976.7

A new player emerges in the leadership struggles of the Romulan Star Empire, a former senator long thought dead who may know the location of the Shadow Guard's Vault. However, he has returned with a fleet of unknown aliens and before the Latenter can get to him, they must first gather intel about his army...

---

View Episode

Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | On the bridge of a Romulan starship, a female Commander in a modern Star Navy uniform steps onto the bridge, "What is it, Subcommander?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Subcommander: "Something's been poking at the tachyon defense grid, Commander. Alien vessel of unknown configuration. The rest of the patrol have gone in pursuit." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | The Commander takes the central seat, "Size of the ship?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Subcommander: "No larger than a T'varo warbird. Your orders?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "Hold position. It's probably smugglers. It doesn't warrant the entire naval garrison chasing after it." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Subcommander: "Understood." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "Any updates on the Vitellius situation?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Comm Officer: "Zevarus Prime has pledged their allegiance to him. The IRW Ra'hruuhi was within their surrounding space. All contact has been lost." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "A D'deridex? I hope it is at least destroyed and not captured. Or worse, surrendered." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Subcommander: "I have served with Commander Kevik. He is loyal. He would rather die than-" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Ops Officer: "Commander! Another ship has been detected moving through the tachyon grid!" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "Shields up. Show me." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | On the viewscreen, a large, imposing ship looms into view... Goto Yuzuki@anncaris FX | https://i.imgur.com/TyKnHWQ.jpg Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "What is that?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Ops Officer: "Unknown. Analysis indicates it is of the same origins as the vessel that was revealed by the grid earlier." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "That must have been a distraction! Recall all ships at once-" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | A second of the large carriers suddenly flicker into view as its cloak is revealed by the tachyon grid, then a third. Smaller raider-sized ships begin launching from the sides Goto Yuzuki@anncaris FX | https://i.imgur.com/WKjYw9k.jpg Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Subcommander: "It's an invasion!" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "Evasive maneuvers! Get us out of their range, then engage battle cloak!" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | The Romulan ship begins to turn away, but the nimble raider dart in, soon surrounding them Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Pilot: "I don't think that's going to be an option, Commander..." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "Then we stand and fight. Lock weapons on the nearest raider." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Subcommander: "They have us surrounded. Why aren't they firing?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Tactical Officer: "Weapons locked." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "I don't know, but we're not going to give them the same luxury. Fire." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | A burst of disruptor fire and plasma torpedoes shoot out from the Imperial Mogai. A few glancing hits impact the raider, but its speed allows it to evade the bulk of the volley Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "Use that opening. Get us out of here!" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | The warbird darts towards the opening created as the raiders evade Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Comm Officer: "Commander, the colony has notified Imperial Navy Command. And...our comms have been jammed." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "Immediately after the call for help?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Comm Officer: "Affirmative." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "So that's why..." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Subcommander: "What do you mean?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "They /want/ us to know who is responsible." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | As the Mogai nears the opening, still firing and scattering the raiders, one of the carriers swoops in, blocking their way. The raiders suddenly gather from their formerly chaotic evading as - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - they all turn to engage the warbird at once Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Commander: "Elements help us..." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | The raiders and carrier open fire. The Mogai's shields collapse quickly and bolts and torpedoes tear the once graceful warbird apart. The carrier and raiders all break off after the single - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - attack, moving clear of the blast radius as the Mogai implodes into a singularity behind them Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | The camera zooms out to show two other collapsing singularity cores in orbit. Several of the raiders make for the planet beyond, and explosions can be seen on its surface... Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | As the scene fades to black, various voices can be heard Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Voice 1: "...Imperial colony world of Seginus II brutally conquered..." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Voice 2: "He has an armada! Our forces are weak and splintered!" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Voice 1: "...self-proclaimed 'Emperor' Vitellius and his new allies of unidentified..." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Voice 3: "This is an internal matter of the Star Empire. The Republic has no grounds to intervene, nor should we. Let them tear themselves apart, for all I care!" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Voice 2: "There is no alternative! We must join with him!" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Voice 1: "...latest projections indicate Vitellius will gain complete control of the Star Empire within two weeks if current patterns continue..." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Voice 4: "What do you think will happen when Vitellius finally takes Rator? A man like him will not sit idle for long! The Republic must act..." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Voice 2: "...this is the end of the Romulan Star Empire as we know it." --- Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | The scene fades into the Latenter's briefing room, where various news reports and surveillance footage is displayed on the console. Yuzuki taps the console and the footage disappears, replaced - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - by a dossier of a Romulan Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Senator Vitellius i-Mirek tr’Eihssuil. Or as he calls himself now, Emperor Vitellius." Mischa@crystyl:"He has been quite the busy boy now hasn't he" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Until last week, we thought he was dead. Vitellius was one of the Romulans who followed Sela out during her exile prior to Hobus. Star Empire records stated that Vitellius, his ship and his entire - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - family was lost when making contact with a species known as the Zauger. No further detail exists about them, as Sela's expedition avoided them after Vitellius' supposed death. The location of - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - their homeworld has never been identified. All we know is that their territory is in unexplored space further into the Beta Quadrant, beyond Romulan territories." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Eirril: "There's no confirmation, but the rumour is that the aliens who have returned with Vitellius and are now helping his conquest of the Star Empire are these Zauger." Mischa@crystyl:"Stands to reason. So what do we think of the timing with all of this? Is it purely coincidental or do we suspect ties to our own mission?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Yes and no. It's connected to our mission, but Vitellius' return is probably not prompted by the situation we're dealing with." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Eirril: "His return might be connected to the psionic phenomenon. Rumour also has it Vitellius was among those who gained a great deal of psionic power. That could have prompted him to begin - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - the invasion and explains the timing." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"But it's not impossible the Shadow Guard or the future vessels had a hand to play in it either. We just don't know enough to say for sure." Mischa@crystyl:"Let's consider options then. In broad strokes; we can either investigate more closely, or ignore the situation. Thoughts and repercussions of both?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"I'm afraid we can't ignore the situation. This new Emperor who leads a fleet of unknown aliens and supposedly commands extraordinary psionic powers...he's our best lead on the Vault the Commodore - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - has tasked us with finding." Mischa@crystyl:"Well, that's a pretty significant repercussion for not doing anything then" she chuckles, "Alright, so where do we begin?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Let's start with what we know so far. House Eihssuil was a prominent Romulan noble house before Hobus and Vitellius was a staunch supporter of Sela at the time. In fact, he obtained his seat in - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - the Senate thanks to her. Before that, he was a Wing Commander in the Imperial Navy and was known for being a tactical mastermind. His strategies played a part in the retaking of several - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - worlds during the Dominion War, including Benzar. He has four warbird maneuvers named after him and he's one of the few Romulans to have earned a modicum of respect with the Klingons." Mischa@crystyl:"In short then; the last man we want to see on a power trip with psionic abilities" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Exactly. As for how he connects with our mission...before he left with Sela, he was in charge of a project to rapidly replenish the Imperial Navy following the Dominion War, the Shinzon Coup and - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - everything else that happened at the time. At least that was the official story. It was a secret project of course, but that goes without saying because it was a Romulan project, but this one - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - was more secret than usual. Our analysts of the time suspected it wasn't a fleet to bolster the Romulans' defenses, but a secret invasion fleet. It was widely known among the Imperial Senate - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - that Vitellius was adopting a General Chang type of outlook and believed that an external enemy was needed to stop the infighting and power struggles which were threatening to escalate out of - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - control again. He saw the Dominion War as the glory days of the Imperial Navy and wanted more of that." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Eirril: "You can see why some Klingons liked him." Mischa@crystyl:"Indeed" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Anyways, if the project wasn't put on ice after he left, it certainly was after Hobus. We never managed to learn much about it, but what we did learn was that it involved a state-of-the-art - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - massive station that would produce ships dedicated to the Romulan ways of war. We know he wasn't involved in the Vault we're aware of- that would've been built or at least mostly completed by - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - then, his name never came up in any of the Vault records that we know of, and the Vault was dedicated to research and experimentation rather than shipbuilding. He might have been overseeing - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - the Vault that's supplying the Shadow Guard now. They've somehow managed to produce ships dedicated to stealth and recon more so than even the average Romulan warbird, completely independently - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - of the Republic, and we have reason to believe it's due to a Vault they hold. It's not direct evidence, but all the pieces fit." Mischa@crystyl:"Then we must find that evidence, which means finding that vault" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Eirril: "Problem is, all the leads to that Vault is dried up. Anyone mentioned as being even somewhat tangentially related to the project is dead, and that's why I wasn't able to provide you - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - with anything. Until Vitellius suddenly showed back up ." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Short of capturing someone from the Shadow Guard who knows where it is, which is unlikely to happen soon since we used up our Cartel lure already, Vitellius is our best chance of finding it." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | T'Fel: "And it would be logical for him to be searching for it as well. It would perhaps be even more dangerous in his hands than it already is in the hands of the Shadow Guard." Mischa@crystyl:"Stands to reason. I assume then you already have an analysis of his movements so far?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | T'Fel nods, "These alien vessels are capable of cloak as well, but I have been able to analyze their movements based on known engagements. Their main force is proceeding directly for the Star - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - Empire capital of Rator. Two smaller task forces diverged from the main force at some point while they were passing through the Dimorus Sector. There is not yet enough data to make a - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - conclusion on their target, but it is possible that one may be heading for the Shadow Guard's Vault." Mischa@crystyl:"So we could attempt to pick up the trail there" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | T'Fel: "Indeed. By the time we near their locations, I may have enough data to conclude which group is seeking the Vault, or at least make a reasonable prediction on which is more likely and - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - thus the one we should follow." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | T'Bee: "There may be something else we can do in the meantime that will not deviate our course significantly, however." Mischa@crystyl:"Oh?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | T'Bee: "This new species is an unknown. The only intelligence we have on them is from intercepted Imperial Navy reports, which are describing them as 'Remans, but worse.' That is exceptionally - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - vague. Do they serve the same social and military function as Remans? Do they possess similar capabilities to the Remans? Are they some form of splinter subspecies from the Remans? There are - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - too many questions, and it works in their favour should we encounter them unprepared." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris nods in agreement, "None of us here like unknowns." Mischa@crystyl:"Agreed. But acknowledging what we do not know doesn't get us any closer to finding it" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | T'Bee: "When Vitellius first resurfaced, three Imperial colonies recognized his claim as Emperor and pledged their allegiance to him. They are not currently under occupation. The first system - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - he attacked was Seginus, located in the Dimorus Sector. We are headed in its direction if we are to follow the task forces. An alien cruiser currently remains in orbit of Seginus II, holding - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - the planet under military occupation. It may be worth the time to study them and their technology before we attempt to follow a larger force." Mischa@crystyl:"It's as good a place to start as any. Very well, we will proceed down this path for the moment" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris nods, "I'll have the helm take us to the Seginus system. We'll study the aliens while T'Fel tries to determine which task group to follow." Mischa@crystyl:"Very good then. If there is nothing more for now?" she looks around Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Eirril: "That's all we have at the moment. I'll keep digging into these alien ships. So far the only thing I have is that people who ventured beyond Romulan borders have sighted them before, - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - but nothing more than that. If I get lucky, maybe someone not associated with the Federation or Romulans have explored out that way before and know something more, but I wouldn't keep my hopes - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - up. Firsthand observation's definitely our best source." Mischa@crystyl:"Let's get to work then. Dismissed" --- NPC@annpc#557 | While Mischa works in her ready room as the Latenter travels towards the Seginus system, her doorbell rings Mischa@crystyl looks up from her console, "Come in" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey steps inside, "Hello Commander." Mischa@crystyl smiles, "Hello Acey, what can I do for you?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "One moment..." Mischa@crystyl perks a brow, leaning back in her chair as she looks on curiously, and a little entertained NPC@annpc#557 | Acey stays quiet for a few seconds before speaking again, "There. The room is secure. Our conversation will not be overheard or recorded in any form. As far as the Latenter is aware, it never - NPC@annpc#557 - took place, so we may speak freely," she smiles proudly as she takes a seat Mischa@crystyl smiles again, "You are learning our trade well" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Thank you, Commander. I wished to ask about our present course of action." Mischa@crystyl:"What specifically is on your mind?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Commodore Fox has asked us to locate the Shadow Guard's Vault base, and we believe it is likely the future vessel will reveal itself once we find it, correct?" Mischa@crystyl:"That is the current theory, yes" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Yet you were working with the Shadow Guard to fake the Justicar's destruction, meaning that you must be on amenable terms with them. Would it not be easier to contact them and ask for - NPC@annpc#557 - the location of their base rather than attempting to obtain this information from Vitellius and his fleet?" Mischa@crystyl:"Perhaps. But that assumes that finding their base is indeed the best course of action. If current suppositions work out to be correct, then doing so could draw the future ship out and if they seek - Mischa@crystyl:- destroy the base then we could end up setting them up to be destroyed" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods, "A valid concern. What is your plan then, if we assume we are able to learn of the Vault's location from Vitellius?" Mischa@crystyl:"Honestly, right now my plan doesn't stretch beyond going with the flow and seeing what unravels" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "An interesting approach. It is my nature to analyze all data at hand to attempt to determine probabilities for all possible events that may arise from any choice and make my decision - NPC@annpc#557 - accordingly. Such a method of operation is difficult for me to comprehend." Mischa@crystyl:"It is not easy for me either, and whilst I happily follow suit with analyzing potential outcomes as a biological it is easier for me to form preconceptions when doing so" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "However, your biological nature may possess one unique advantage against this specific enemy." Mischa@crystyl:"And what might that be?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "I have been analyzing the files on Vitellius. There are a number of similarities between you. Like you, he hails from a family with a long history on his homeworld. He was - NPC@annpc#557 - known to prefer his service with the Imperial Navy than his role as a member of that noble house. Though he ultimately took a political position, he always remained more connected to the - NPC@annpc#557 - military side of leadership. When he ultimately left with Sela, he took a position among her fleet not as a political figure, but as a ship commander and tactician." Mischa@crystyl:"You believe then he might find me relatable?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Perhaps, but not in any way that may provide a significant benefit in negotiation. If Vitellius were to open any form of negotiation with the Federation, I calculate a 71.46% chance - NPC@annpc#557 - that it will be a trap similar to the ploy employed by Shinzon, though not identical as to be unpredictable, of course. I believe the advantage may arise from you being able to better - NPC@annpc#557 - relate to him and thus predict his actions. I have identified three members of the Latenter crew who all share a key element in common with him. Together, you may be able to anticipate his - NPC@annpc#557 - actions better than my algorithms." Mischa@crystyl:"Interesting. Who have your calculations identified?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Subcommander Nikee for their shared Romulan heritage and Ensign Orianni for their tactical prowess." Mischa@crystyl:"Both fine suggestions, and Ori is already aware of the bigger picture as you are. Nikee is also relatively safe I believe so can be included if needs be" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods, "I will inform her of the bigger picture if it is prudent to do so, though I do not believe it is necessary for her to help in predicting Vitellius' behaviour. Unless, of course, - NPC@annpc#557 - Vitellius is involved with the larger conspiracy to some extent. I believe the chances of that are low, however, as Vitellius probably knows of the Vault being used by the Shadow Guard. If he - NPC@annpc#557 - was in league with the future vessels, or even being manipulated by them, they would have learned of the Vault's location and likely dealt a serious blow to the Shadow Guard long ago." Mischa@crystyl:"A valid observation" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "His invasion is not exactly suspicious behaviour. The Star Empire has been in a state of civil unrest and conflict since the first capture of Empress Sela. Even his use of external - NPC@annpc#557 - allies is unsurprising, as Sela's Star Empire has made heavy use of Hirogen and Elachi forces in the past. The only unusual element is how effective his campaign as been so far, which may be - NPC@annpc#557 - attributed to the severely weakened state of the Empire and his experience and talent with military tactics." Mischa@crystyl:"Coupled with the prowess of a seemingly powerful new player he is commanding" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods, "Agreed. Gathering intelligence on this new player is vital, not only to our current mission but perhaps to future endeavours as well. From Vitellius' past behaviour, I calculate an - NPC@annpc#557:- 88.71% chance that he will attack the Romulan Republic once he has gained control of the Star Empire. However, doing so would provoke action from the Federation and Klingon Empire, who are allied - NPC@annpc#557 - with the Republic but not the Star Empire. Per my analysis of his personality and general Romulan tactics, he will most likely orchestrate something akin to the synth attack on Utopia Planetia - NPC@annpc#557 - to keep Starfleet preoccupied with internal affairs when he launches another, equally swift and effective invasion of Republic territories." NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "In short, he is a threat to the Federation." Mischa@crystyl:"No arguments here" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "There is one other point of personal curiosity, if I may inquire." Mischa@crystyl:"Of course" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "House Eihssuil has a tradition of military service, and it was not only accepted, but encouraged that their members join the Imperial Navy. From your records, it would seem like your - NPC@annpc#557 - family had a very similar tradition, yet from the way you speak of your decision to join Starfleet, it sounds as if it were a controversial choice to your family. I understand that you were - NPC@annpc#557 - not pleased with some things your family wished you to do, but it seems joining Starfleet would be fulfilling one such expectation, would it not?" Mischa@crystyl sighs softly, "One would like to think, but no. It is because I am a woman" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey tilts her head curiously, "Why is that relevant? Female members of House Eihssuil served tours in the Imperial Navy as often as the males. Is that a unique aspect of human culture?" Mischa@crystyl:"Not in modern society, but for a lot of our ancient history Humanity was a very patriarchal society. So for a strong traditionalist family such as mine, the military service is indeed - Mischa@crystyl:-- expected - but only from the males. Females are expected to play a different role in society" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "I see. Your family has retained traditions from these ancient times, then. That may be another point you hold in common with Vitellius." Mischa@crystyl:"Perhaps" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "House Eihssuil held very typical outlooks for 24th century Romulans, but they possessed one unique aspect- one such ancient tradition they have preserved." Mischa@crystyl:"And what is that?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "A meditative technique dating back to before the founding of Romulus. It shares a great deal in common with Vulcan meditation techniques, only the Eihssuils use it to focus their minds - NPC@annpc#557 - before battle rather than to control their emotions. This has also resulted in them retaining the ability to utilize trances, which they employ in a similar fashion. Instead of healing traces, - NPC@annpc#557 - members of the House have been documented to enter a combat trance in which they become solely focused on the fighting. They are not distracted by emotion or even pain and become ruthless - NPC@annpc#557:- killers in such a trance, reportedly battling on even when they have sustained mortal injuries until their body collapses entirely. While no member of the family has ever demonstrated outward - NPC@annpc#557 - mental ability, this extensive discipline may be a contributing factor to why Vitellius obtained so much psionic power, and how he has quickly learned to harness it." Mischa@crystyl:"It would indeed. Such prowess in battle might even give our Ori a run for her money" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Indeed. One member of the family, Taetus tr'Eihssuil, was said to have slain three Qowat Milat sisters single-handedly before succumbing to the wounds he sustained in that fight. The - NPC@annpc#557 - vast majority of biologicals, including several Klingon Dahar Masters, cannot even best one in single combat." NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "The meditation is effective for command as well as personal combat, as the increased focus it grants allows for greater clarity when viewing the large scope of a battlefield." Mischa@crystyl:"How unfortunate that we do not have a skilled teacher in that art on board the Latenter" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Perhaps Vulcan meditation may be a suitable replacement, seeing their common origins. I believe T'Fel and T'Bee are quite well-versed." Mischa@crystyl:"Worth investigating, though I doubt a crash course would put me on par with this new folly" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey chuckles, "That's another downside of biologicals. You don't have many options for quickly downloading something. Perhaps you should speak with Root concerning Borg data assimilation as - NPC@annpc#557 - well," she smirks. "Anyways, shall I restore normal functions now that we have finished discussing information we do not wish to be overheard?" Mischa@crystyl:"By all means" she nods NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods back and pauses for a moment, "There. All done. Thank you for answering my queries, Commander." Mischa@crystyl:"Any time" --- Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Some time later, Mischa is called to the bridge as the Latenter begins to approach the Seginus system Goto Yuzuki@anncaris stands from the chair and steps aside, "Chair's all yours, Mischa. We should be arriving in a few minutes." Mischa@crystyl sits, "Any activity to report?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | T'Bee: "Long ranged sensors are registering a cruiser of unknown configuration and several smaller energy signatures of the same type. Everything is as we expected it." Mischa@crystyl:"Alright, we stay running dark on full surveillance for now" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Victoria nods, "Understood, Commander." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | A few minutes later, Nethay announces, "Entering system edge now." Mischa@crystyl:"Begin defense analysis" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | T'Fel: "I am seeing a tachyon detection grid, but all further defense installations have been disabled or destroyed. The cruiser is positioned within the defense grid. The other signatures - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - belong to four raider-sized craft. One pair is one patrol and the second holding position beside the cruiser." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | T'Bee: "I am detecting a third pair, unpowered and landed on the planet surface." Mischa@crystyl:"So if we want to get any kind of intel on these people we're going to have find a way past that grid" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | T'Bee: "We can gather some information about their ships from this range, but I cannot discern any biological data, aside from the fact that they have unique lifesigns and are most likely not - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - a subsect of any known species. I can say with some degree of confidence they are not a variant of Remans, but that is the extent of what I able to determine at the moment." Mischa@crystyl:"So how do we get through undetected?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"The Latenter can't. But," she smiles, moving over to a console, "I think we can get a team through." Mischa@crystyl:"What are you thinking?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"We can't get through the grid cloaked. There's a way to fool a tachyon grid developed by the crew of the Voyager, but it requires an uncloaked ship with shields raised to refract the tachyon beams - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - and fool the grid into thinking nothing is there. We'll make our way past the grid without it detecting us, but that cruiser or the patrolling raiders will see us since we're going to be - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - completely visible. However, a much smaller craft designed to go beneath notice even without a cloak like a Dart could slip past both the grid /and/ the ships." Mischa@crystyl:"So I can take Acey in" she smiles, "This is getting to be a habit" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris chuckles, "I suggest taking Subcommander Nikee along as well. She'll be a good asset to have, especially if you need to interact with the local colonists while you're there." Mischa@crystyl:"Agreed. Acey and I can use Romulan disguises if needed as well" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris nods, "A good idea. I'll keep an eye on things up here while we study their ships." Mischa@crystyl stands, "Very good. In that case, I will leave you to it and go prepare" --- NPC@annpc#557 | Acey's hologram flickers into existence as Mischa and Nikki step inside, "Hello again Commander! I am glad you asked me to inhabit a Dart. These craft are useful." Mischa@crystyl:"That they most certainly are" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Time to go undercover as Romulans again?" Mischa@crystyl nods, "It may not come to it, but unlike you I have to plan ahead so will be assuming a yes on that" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey chuckles, "Of course. I am ready to proceed when you are, Commander." Mischa@crystyl:"You have been briefed I take it on the tachyon grid we are to breach?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods as her avatar takes a seat at the front of the Dart, "I have. Commander Goto's plan should take us through the grid and past their ships without being detected." Mischa@crystyl:"Very good. Proceed when ready then" NPC@annpc#557 | A few seconds later, the Dart lifts off, emerging from the cloaked Latenter into the space beyond NPC@annpc#557 | Acey glances to Mischa, then to Nikki, "To continue our conversation from the other day...you come from a prominent family as well, do you not, Subcommander?" Mischa@crystyl | Nikee glances between the pair, "I was an orphan of Romulus, raised on a distant colony at a hunting lodge. There is nothing prominent about that" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "You are not connected with the history of your family, then?" Mischa@crystyl | Nikee looks ahead, "I am acutely aware of my family history" eyes narrowing on Acey, "As are you it would seem..." NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods, "I am. I have come across your family name several times while researching Vitellius and House Eihssuil." Mischa@crystyl:"Anything we can use?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Several points of interest, though I do not know how much use they would be." Mischa@crystyl:"One way to find out. Unless you have any objections, Subcommander?" Mischa@crystyl | Nikee stares back a moment before forcing her gaze stoically forwards, "It is likely all news to me also. I do not object" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "House Rllaillieu also has a strong military tradition, and there have been several instances of marriage between the members of House Rllaillieu and House Eihssuil. One such case was - NPC@annpc#557 - Vitellius' grandmother. Ael i-Mhiessan t'Rllaillieu's position as Empress was a significant factor leading to his grandfather's rise to Praetor. It shows how complex your political systems can - NPC@annpc#557 - be. Empress Ael was known for cultivating good relations with the Federation, yet her being Empress indirectly allowed for the ascension of a Praetor who was staunchly against the Federation, - NPC@annpc#557 - undoing much of her work through the Tomed Incident and the subsequent Treaty of Algeron." Mischa@crystyl | Nikee: "Interesting, but as you said it hardly bares relevance here" Mischa@crystyl:"Oh I don't know, it could put a whole new context on your presence" Mischa@crystyl | Nikee glares at the back of Mischa's head, "I am /not/ engaging in political marriage to suit your personal machinations Commander" Mischa@crystyl grins to herself NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "There is one other point of interest. Vitellius seems to be in possession of the Sword of S'task, one of the famous swords crafted by the smith S'harien and utilized by Empress Ael for - NPC@annpc#557 - a time. Most believe it was lost with Romulus, but intel collected from the Star Empire over the years reveals that he stole the real sword and replaced it with a replica when he departed with - NPC@annpc#557 - Sela. That is why the Senate did not take the sword that was in the Council chambers with them and instead brought the Debrune teral'n." Mischa@crystyl | Nikee's gaze slowly softens and drifts to Acey as she talks, eyes widening slightly at the mention of the teral'n Mischa@crystyl catches the look, "Subcommander?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey glances over curiously Mischa@crystyl | Nikee: "I possess the Debrune teral'n now" Mischa@crystyl grins again NPC@annpc#557 | Acey tilts her head, "That does not match with our records. The teral'n was taken by Nero after he executed the Senate, and to our knowledge, lost along with his vessel." Mischa@crystyl:"Indeed..." Mischa@crystyl | Nikee: "As you recently learned Commander, I have a history with our associates from the future. The recent excursion was not my first time being enlisted as a temporal agent" Mischa@crystyl:"So you retrieved it during a previous assignment?" Mischa@crystyl | Nikee shakes her head, "No... Captain S'Torien actually gifted it to me" Mischa@crystyl:"Quite the gift. Perhaps it's not just political marriage you should be wary of" she smirks Mischa@crystyl | Nikee eyerolls, refusing to bite. NPC@annpc#557 | Acey grins as well, "We do not know if the sword Vitellius carries now is real, as no one has examined it firsthand. However, the records of Sela's expedition did claim the artifact was lost - NPC@annpc#557 - with Vitellius' ship. He is using his possession of the sword as one of his claims for Emperor, the others being his grandfather's position as Praetor, his grandmother's connection to Empress - NPC@annpc#557 - Ael's family, and his own status as a follower of the most recent Empress Sela during her exile." Mischa@crystyl:"You know Subcommander, political marriage may not be favourable. But returning to your people wielding a sacred relic as the descendant of your ancestor could set you up as a strong rival" Mischa@crystyl | Nikee: "You know I have no designs on pursuing anything like that" Mischa@crystyl:"Just saying..." NPC@annpc#557 | Acey turns back to the front of the Dart, "We are about to enter the grid now. Shields are online and properly modified. Lowering profile to absolute minimum now." NPC@annpc#557 FX | All the consoles and lights go out as Acey's projection flickers away, leaving Mischa and Nikki alone in the dark Mischa@crystyl watches quietly NPC@annpc#557 | The Dart cruises onward past the detection grid, with everything seeming to remain calm and quiet. In the distance, the alien cruiser looms near the planet NPC@annpc#557 FX | https://i.imgur.com/RlTPkVq.jpg NPC@annpc#557 | The cruiser soon moves out of view as the Dart flies past it towards the planet. A few of the consoles flicker on as Acey reappears, "We should be clear. If they haven't detected us yet, it is - NPC@annpc#557 - unlikely they will. I am picking up a number of unknown lifesigns in the settlements on the surface. I believe it will be easier to collect biological data there than risk venturing too close - NPC@annpc#557 - to their ships." Mischa@crystyl:"Agreed. See if you can find us a good spot to put down" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods, "Searching now, Commander." NPC@annpc#557 | Acey announces after a few moments, "I have found a suitable location. Taking us in now." NPC@annpc#557 | The Dart makes its approach and soon the planet fills the entire view outside the window. They enter the atmosphere, setting down in a clearing in the midst of a forest Mischa@crystyl:"How far to the nearest settlement?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "6.1 kilometres. I am unable to land any closer, as we would risk detection. Would you like my avatar to accompany you or should I focus on monitoring from the Dart?" Mischa@crystyl:"Can you function effectively that far from the Dart now?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Not without that mobile emitter. My avatar can only be projected within one hundred metres of the Dart without tapping into other emitter sources." Mischa@crystyl:"As I thought. I'm glad that little upgrade didn't pass me by. Alright, assuming you are still able to maintain awareness here and protect the Dart as needed, then please join us" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey smiles and stands, "As a synthetic lifeform, the ability to run multiple processes at once is quite natural to me." Mischa@crystyl:"Let's go then, we've got a decent walk ahead of us" --- NPC@annpc#557:| After a long walk, the trio make their way into the Romulan settlement. The town is eerily quiet, with almost no Romulans visible on the street. They don't have to walk far before they see the - NPC@annpc#557:- first gruesome sign of the occupation: a number of Romulan heads mounted on spikes by a prominent intersection near the edge of the town Mischa@crystyl:looks up, "Something tells me we should not loiter" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey nods, "I agree...let's keep going." Mischa@crystyl:| Nikee meanwhile remains distractedly silent, enraged by the sight of her people's fresh oppression NPC@annpc#557:| The group moves through the quiet town. Some of the locals observe them from their windows curiously, but no one comes out to greet or speak with them. They come across a few people on the - NPC@annpc#557:- streets, most of them walking with their heads down and near the edge of the road, looking like they're doing their best to not draw any attention. Soon, they reach a second plaza with - NPC@annpc#557:- spike mounted heads, and in this one they get their first glimpses of the aliens... NPC@annpc#557:FX | https://i.imgur.com/FZZQ1xC.png Mischa@crystyl:follows the example of the other locals and slinks around to avoid attention in the same manner NPC@annpc#557:| Acey does the same, though she does give the alien a discreet glance as they pass by. Once they are out of view, she turns a corner down a small side street NPC@annpc#557:| Acey moves to a small quiet corner before speaking, "Basic armour, capable of turning away a strike by a melee weapon or blocking shrapnel, but little use against a direct energy strike. Likely - NPC@annpc#557:- for purposes of intimidation as much as protection. Standard disruptor weaponry. They are probably the rank and file of their ground soldiers." Mischa@crystyl:"Sounds like expendable grunts to me" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "It seems so. Judging by their physiological characteristics, they are a predatory species. I will need a closer analysis to determine more information." Mischa@crystyl:"How close is close?" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Well, preferably a biological sample, but a tricorder scan within ten metres will do if we cannot obtain any samples." Mischa@crystyl:"We should continue to investigate the area for now then" Mischa@crystyl:| Nikee: "There must be some form of resistance here. My people would not simply sit back and accept this treatment. Finding them might provide further insight" Mischa@crystyl:"A fair point" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Let's explore the city and see if we can find any sign of resistance, then." Mischa@crystyl nods NPC@annpc#557:| They walk through the town for a few more minutes, until their attention is drawn by some commotion in the distance NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Multiple alien lifesigns ahead, converged around a building." Mischa@crystyl:"Let's try and get closer to observe" NPC@annpc#557:| Edging closer, the team notices an alien dressed in significantly fancier armour, with blue fabric adornments on it, flanked by two of the regular grunts. Another four grunts appear from inside a - NPC@annpc#557:- residence, dragging out a Romulan each. The fancily armoured alien steps forward, speaking an alien language in a deep voice NPC@annpc#557:| Acey whispers, "Translators are deciphering the language now." NPC@annpc#557:| Romulan 1: "You have the wrong house. We don't-" NPC@annpc#557:| Alien: "Your deception is pointless. She is hidden in the cellar, behind a false wall." NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Well that was deciphered quicker than I expected." NPC@annpc#557:| Romulan 1: "You are a telepath..." NPC@annpc#557:| Alien: "I am a Sorcerer. We are much, much more than just telepaths." NPC@annpc#557:| Romulan 2: "We...we did not know. Surely you understand, you follow a Romulan leader! Keeping secrets are a part of who we are!" NPC@annpc#557:| The Sorcerer nods to one of the grunts, "Retrieve her." The grunt heads into the house NPC@annpc#557:| Sorcerer: "I am well aware. But keeping secrets from us is...unwise." NPC@annpc#557:| Romulan 3: "She's only an Uhlan! She came to us, begging for help. She was one of our own! Would you not do the same for one of your own?" NPC@annpc#557:| Sorcerer: "All who defy the Emperor will be made an example of. And that now includes you." NPC@annpc#557:| Sounds of disruptor fire resonate inside the house, and a few of the Romulans gasp. A few seconds later, the grunt emerges with the body of a Romulan woman NPC@annpc#557:| Sorcerer: "She is no longer in her uniform. Pity. She cannot be added to the display in the central courtyard, then. Make an example of all of them." NPC@annpc#557:| Romulan 2: "Please, all we did was give her food and clothing!" Mischa@crystyl:| Nikee, "Commander we can't let them-" Mischa@crystyl:"Maybe the best way to find the resistance is to become the resistance. Alright, leading with smoke in 3... 2... 1" she launches a smoke grenade at the group while taking cover and drawing her - Mischa@crystyl:- weapon as her targeting headset compensate and tracks the aliens for assisted aiming so she can drop them as quick as possible Mischa@crystyl:| Nikki follows suit, opening fire as she moves to cover NPC@annpc#557:| Acey joins in as well, and the team quickly manage to take out the four alien grunts holding the Romulans prisoner. The Sorcerer and the remaining two grunts spin around, the grunts returning - NPC@annpc#557:- fire in their general direction. The Sorcerer draws his own pistol, joining in with the shooting, but he stretches his other hand backwards. Through the smoke, one of the Romulans fly towards him - NPC@annpc#557:- telekinetically and he throws the hostage in front of himself as a meat shield Mischa@crystyl:"Check your fire!" Mischa@crystyl:rolls 71 (1-100) NPC@annpc#557:| The two grunts are easily finished off, and they manage to avoid hitting the hostage, though that also makes hitting the Sorcerer very difficult. Fortunately, he's not managing to hit them in - NPC@annpc#557:- return either NPC@annpc#557:| Sorcerer: "I cannot sense you. Curious." Mischa@crystyl:"Acey can you flank him? NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Of course. One moment." She flickers away, reappearing as a Toroki as she begins scaling the wall and onto the roof to circumvent the narrow street. Meanwhile, the Sorcerer continues to - NPC@annpc#557:- advance, firing in their general direction Mischa@crystyl:maintains precision fire to keep his focus without risking the Romulan shield NPC@annpc#557:| Mischa successfully keeps the Sorcerer's attention on her as Acey shifts back to her regular self and leaps down from the ceiling. She fires a precise shot from behind, scoring a hit on his head - NPC@annpc#557:- and the alien collapses, dropping the hostage onto the ground as well. The Romulan quickly scrambles back to his feet, looking around panicked Mischa@crystyl:scans the vicinity for movement before approaching NPC@annpc#557:| There are no other signs of movement except from the Romulan hostages at the moment Mischa@crystyl:"Clear. You're up Subcommander, I'm just a shadow but you're a veteran at this point" Mischa@crystyl:| Nikki groans but doesn't argue, cautiously approaching while Mischa follows and provides cover still NPC@annpc#557:| The Romulan who was being used as a shield rushes back to the others first before turning to Nikki, "Thank you. You saved us. Are you remnants of the Imperial Navy?" Mischa@crystyl:| Nikki: "We were just in the right place at the right time" she kneels beside them, "Are you injured?" Mischa@crystyl:meanwhile, investigates the sorcerer's body with Acey, "Well, you wanted a sample. This should cover it" NPC@annpc#557:| Romulan 3: "No, we're fine. We need to get out of here, though. They'll send more to investigate what happened here." NPC@annpc#557:| Acey nods, kneeling over and extracting a sample, "Perfect! Thank you." Mischa@crystyl:| Nikki: "Do you have somewhere safe you can all lay low?" NPC@annpc#557:| Romulan 2: "We have people we can trust. Mostly. But with their telepathy..." Mischa@crystyl:| Nikki: "They might sense when someone is hiding, but not if you simply relocate. If you start living elsewhere and stay careful not to dwell on events here then there is nothing for them to sense - Mischa@crystyl:- and link you to this" NPC@annpc#557:| Romulan 4 nods, "Thank you for the advice. We'll grab everything we can and find someone else to live, then. You...should go too, before they send reinforcements." Mischa@crystyl:| Nikki nods, "We will find somewhere to lay low, don't worry about us" she smiles sympathetically, helping them to their feet NPC@annpc#557:| The Romulans smile back, letting her help them up before they run into their house to gather what belongings they can before leaving Mischa@crystyl:"See, you're a natural" Mischa@crystyl:| Nikee, "I simply care for my kin" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "I have analyzed their DNA and found something interesting. Let us leave this area first, though." Mischa@crystyl:nods, "Let's get out of here" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey nods back and leads the way NPC@annpc#557:| The group makes their way to a locked door. Acey sets her hand on the panel and the door slides open, revealing a large warehouse structure which they step into, the door shutting behind them Mischa@crystyl:"Nice find" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "I have modified our false lifesign generators to hide us entirely. They will not be able to track us here." Mischa@crystyl:"Excellent. It would seem our implants protect us from their awareness too from what just transpired" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Indeed. Some of them appear to be telekinetic and telepathic, which is confirmed by my physiological analysis." Mischa@crystyl:"What else did you find?" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Their brain structure is different from any other species we are aware of. I believe it has been specifically evolved, or designed for the control of psionic abilities. While they do - NPC@annpc#557:- possess a bipedal form, their DNA lacks the markers of Children species, including the Failsafe which allows for Horde control. However, the similarities to Children species are unmistakable both - NPC@annpc#557:- visually and genetically. I would have surmized that they were someone's attempt to imitate Children species, if not for a final piece of information." Mischa@crystyl:"Which is?" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "The reason our universal translators were able to decipher their language so quickly. It appears to be a variant of the Progenitor language. I do not possess extensive xenolinguisitics - NPC@annpc#557:- subroutines, but a simple comparison with all other known variants of the language reveals that it is most similar to the dialect favoured by the Architect." Mischa@crystyl:"A most curious development indeed" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Considering that the location of the planet Eden, the site of much of the Architect's experimentations, is within Romulan space, and this species likely originates near Romulan territory - NPC@annpc#557:- but beyond Romulan borders, I have formed a working theory." NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "All the data seems to point to this species possibly being an earlier experiment of the Architect and his team before they successfully created and seeded the Children species." Mischa@crystyl:"That stands to reason" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "What that means for their psychology, we will have to observe further and see. They are clearly capable of ruthless behaviour, but so are many Children species, and the ones we witnessed - NPC@annpc#557:- may not represent the rest of their people." Mischa@crystyl:"Perhaps, perhaps not. We shall see, as you say. Wandering the streets further may not be the most prudent right now as it is getting late. Perhaps we should rest here for the night and resume our - Mischa@crystyl:- search again in the morning" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey nods, "I agree. While I do not require rest, it would be a good idea to lie low, as they are no doubt searching for us outside." Mischa@crystyl:looks around, "We can at least search this building for supplies" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey smiles, "No need. I am accessing the warehouse inventory record remotely. Unless...you wish to pass the time by searching, of course." Mischa@crystyl:smiles and shrugs, "It's either that or playing word games" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey chuckles, "I shall let you search, then. You are welcome to ask if you wish to find something specific, and I can use the inventory to tell you whether the warehouse holds it and where to - NPC@annpc#557:- look!" Mischa@crystyl:"Like a scavenger hunting game, that should pass the time! Let me start with a vague one; is there anything in here which is of direct use to our current mission?" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Nothing exceptional, seeing as this is a civilian warehouse, but there are certainly some things that could come in useful, or become useful with a little work," she grins Mischa@crystyl:"Alright then!" she smiles, relaxing and beginning to wander --- Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | While Mischa and her team investigate the new aliens on the colony's surface, Yuzuki and Ori study the sensor readings of their ships on the Latenter... Rianni@crystyl taps, "Well, I'd definitely classify it is a cruiser. Not quite into the battlecruiser range of the Klingon design, but somewhere between that and Starfleet cruisers" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris taps away as well, "Most of the intercepted reports from the Star Empire indicate that they tend to favour deploying large carriers which carry smaller raiders like the one we see here. There's - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - only one report that mentions cruisers like this, where two of them were used to take down a D'deridex. Do you think their role in battle is some form of cruiser-killer against larger enemy - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- vessels?" Rianni@crystyl:"It is certainly a possibility. They seem to have arrived well prepared to take on the Romulan fleet so it is possible they were designed specifically to take down D'deridex' even" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris nods, "This whole campaign so far is very methodically executed. It might explain why the cruiser was left here in orbit to oversee the occupation. Vitellius' knowledge of the Star Empire is - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- several decades out of date, and the Star Empire today don't have many ships larger than a Mogai left. He's probably encountering fewer D'deridexes than he expected so he has more of these to - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- spare." Rianni@crystyl:"That stands to reason" she nods Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | As Ori examines the scan data of the cruiser, she notices a system she doesn't recognize... Rianni@crystyl hrms, "What's this? Do you recognize this at all Commander?" she moves the data to the central display Goto Yuzuki@anncaris looks at the central display and shakes her head, "No...it's positioned almost like a secondary deflector, draws as much power as a deflector array as well judging by the EPS conduits there, if - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- not even more power. But it's definitely not a deflector. I've never seen something like this configuration before." Rianni@crystyl:"Could it be something like those fleet-shield generators that were encountered on the Progenitor ship the Horde were using?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris brings up the data on the fleet-shield generator on another display, "Doesn't look anything like it. I'm not an engineering specialist, but it looks more like very advanced comm buoy. A signal - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - amplifier of some kind." Rianni@crystyl:"That's a hell of a lot of ship to focus on a comm buoy, where are they calling home to - the Pegasus galaxy?" she quips Rianni@crystyl:rolls 83 (1-100) Goto Yuzuki@anncaris chuckles, "I don't think it /is/ a comm buoy, but it's the closest thing I can think of..." Rianni@crystyl:"No, that would just be silly. However..." Rianni@crystyl taptaps, finding reference data, "I thought so. There are consistent elements with the Trident of Poseidon" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"/The/ Trident?" she looks over at the reference data. "I...do see the similarities. You might be onto something, Ensign. I'm sending this data down to Engineering to get Daurant's opinion of it. - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- Maybe Eirril too, since he's a powerful telepath." Rianni@crystyl:"This could be key to their effectiveness in combat" Rianni@crystyl:"And perhaps also why the ship remains here - not only due to not being optimal in deployment - but perhaps also needed to sustain ground troops somehow" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris nods as she sends the data over, "That's possible. The raiders don't have systems like that. And if it is a telepathic amplifier, the Star Empire don't have the schematics for our implants - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- either, since they're not part of the Coalition. Only the Republic has that technology. A device like this could allow them to read the minds of Imperial naval officers and know exactly what - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- their enemy is planning. Or even incite fear and panic in their ranks." Rianni@crystyl:"It could also potentially allow this new would-be Emperor to exert his will and influence over his forces. We could theoretically be dealing with a whole new Architect/Horde setup here" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"As if he wasn't enough of a problem already..." Rianni@crystyl:"Well there is not exactly any direct evidence, perhaps once the Commander returns from the surface. But I believe it is at least a possibility" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"We have to consider every possibility, especially the worst ones. But while we wait for Daurant and Eirril's analysis, let's take a look at those raiders. From what the Imperial AARs suggest, the - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - carriers and their raiders appear to be the backbone of their fleet. If we have to face them, we can likely expect to fight a number of the raiders." Rianni@crystyl nods, turning back to her console, "I must confess, when I took this assignment I did not anticipate calling on my shared knowledge with the other me this much" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Neither did we. Our initial mission was just to track down the one rogue Starfleet vessel. But things rarely go according to plan, and mission parameters are changed all the time." Rianni@crystyl:"Let us only hope they do not change so far as actually putting all of this research into practice. The Valley Forge was no warship, but it was at least built to hold it's own. We are very limited - Rianni@crystyl:- with the Latenter" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris nods, "Agreed, and these aliens certainly do field warships." Rianni@crystyl:"At least I am not on my own in that trepidation. Unfortunately, there is little - tactically - we can do to tip that balance. Anyway, let's see... raiders are smaller than a Bird of Prey. Just as - Rianni@crystyl:- heavily armed though, nimble and effective. But they pay for it with a severe lack of defensive power. Hitting them is the hard part, but when you do it doesn't take much" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris nods, "Looks like it's something between a raider and a fighter, with the firepower of a raider and the defenses of a fighter. That might be good insight into the way they conduct battle. Even - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - if they're hard to hit, some are bound to be hit or caught in the crossfire at some point. That's why Starfleet use fighters sparingly- because it's dangerous and we value the lives of our - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- officers. A design like this shows us they're willing to sacrifice many of their own. That could point to a very zealous belief in a cause, a culture that glorifies death in battle, or as you - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- suggested, mind control." Rianni@crystyl:"Or perhaps elements of all of these. It does at least mean that the Latenter is perfectly well equipped to handling these en masse. Subject to heavy cruiser support, of course" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris smiles, "Well, that is good news at least. If Mischa and her team can obtain any sensor data of the battle, we can put intel on their flight maneuvers to use working on a firing solution against - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - them so we are as effective as we can be if we have to engage their raiders." Rianni@crystyl:"I believe this enemy is most vulnerable against an aggressive opening gambit" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris nods, "So don't engage them when they're inside a tachyon detection grid where we can't take advantage of the element of surprise." Rianni@crystyl:"Definitely. Quite a classic carrier/support strategy actually; just maintain gravity wells centered on the carrier, and the explosions from it's weaker support craft dropping hard and fast would - Rianni@crystyl:- finish the job. Theoretically you could take out a whole carrier without landing a single shot on it" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris smiles, "Your connection to the other you is certainly coming in very useful for us, Ensign. Thank you." She glances down as the console beeps, "Daurant and Eirril aren't completely sure, but - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- they're in consensus that a telepathic amplifier is the most likely explanation for the mysterious system. And Eirril says he can sense psionics on that cruiser. The whole crew isn't psionic, - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - it's only a few members, but it means they're capable of using telepathy and supports the amplifier theory." Rianni@crystyl:"Well it's a working theory at least. That's something more than we had when we started" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"That it is. Let's keep working on it while we wait for Mischa to return." --- NPC@annpc#557:| After a night of rest, Mischa and co. prepare to make their way out of the warehouse... NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "I am still detecting an increased concentration of alien lifesigns outside. We should proceed cautiously." Mischa@crystyl:"Alright let's figure out our objectives first so we walk with purpose out there" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey nods, stepping over to the door and placing her hand on the inner panel. It slides open again to the streets beyond NPC@annpc#557:| When they step out of the warehouse, it is immediately clear that something is off. The aliens are out in force, and from the way they are moving, they don't seem to be on idle patrol or - NPC@annpc#557:- searching, but heading for specific destinations. In the distance, a thick plume of smoke can be seen from something burning Mischa@crystyl:"It appears they have been busy" NPC@annpc#557:| As they look around, they spot several of the alien grunts dragging or carrying struggling Romulans along down the street, but there are too many for the trio to successfully attack this time. - NPC@annpc#557:- They seem to be taking the prisoners towards the source of the smoke Mischa@crystyl:"We should investigate but must avoid attention" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Actually, that may not be difficult. I have just intercepted this transmission," she opens her hand, extending her projection to show another blue armoured alien Sorcerer NPC@annpc#557:| Sorcerer Projection: "All citizens, proceed to the central square. Failure to attend will result in punishment." Mischa@crystyl:"Fair enough, though this puts us in a vulnerable position" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey nods, "But at least we will be able to blend in with the crowd. Their psionics will have difficulty realizing they cannot sense us specifically due to our implants through all the others - NPC@annpc#557:- present." Mischa@crystyl:"Very true" NPC@annpc#557:| The team make their way towards the source of the smoke, Acey leading them on a path to avoid contact with the aliens as much as possible NPC@annpc#557:| Before long, they arrive at the central courtyard, where many Romulans are already gathered. Across the square, various pikes are arrayed just like the smaller plazas, except these are larger and - NPC@annpc#557:- instead of heads, the entire bodies of Imperial Navy officers are impaled, still in their uniforms. However, the most gruesome sight by far is set up in the very centre... NPC@annpc#557:| The source of the smoke becomes clear as a force-fielded enclosure of some description. Before they can see what is burning inside it, they can already hear the screams coming from within, - NPC@annpc#557:- agonized cries from over a dozen different voices. The crowd parts ways when two alien grunts come through dragging more Romulans, giving them a clear view of what's going on. The cage seems to - NPC@annpc#557:- be a massive grill, and Romulans are being thrown inside, cooked alive from the roaring fires beneath them Mischa@crystyl:"Yep... definitely not good" NPC@annpc#557:| Several of the Romulans in the square try to back away from the gruesome sight, but the alien grunts step up to any who try to leave the square, raising their rifles. Seeing no choice, they - NPC@annpc#557:- quietly rejoin the crowd. As they watch, a giant holoprojection of another well-armoured alien, this one with red armour and fabrics, appears before the pyre NPC@annpc#557:| Sorcerer: "Citizens of Ath'rekar. The Third Eye has been turned upon you for the slaying of a Zauger Sorcerer last night. Any and all who harbour the slightest thought of rebellion has been - NPC@annpc#557:- identified. Those who killed one of our own are doubtless among those burning in the pyre now. This is no victory. Their blatant act of disobedience has doomed every member of your local - NPC@annpc#557:- resistance, for no thoughts can evade the gaze of the Third Eye. Let the screams of their suffering be a lesson to you all. This is your final warning. If even one more Zauger soldier is slain on - NPC@annpc#557:- these streets, your entire settlement shall be made an example of. Glory to the Emperor." NPC@annpc#557:FX | The hologram fizzles out and with it, the screams of the dying, as most of them now seem to be dead or too near death to scream Mischa@crystyl:| Nikki fumes, growling under her breath, "They will pay for this..." Mischa@crystyl:grabs her arm, "Easy Subcommander. You can't help anyone if you're on a pyre" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey meanwhile glances to Mischa, "What is this 'Third Eye' they speak of? I have examined their biology. They possess only two eyes." Mischa@crystyl:"Many cultures have a mysticism around a 'third eye' often used as a metaphor for inexplicable psychic powers, including my own" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey nods, "It is still a curious statement to say that 'the Third Eye has been turned upon' this settlement. They already had psionics present, as evident by the sorcerer we.../someone/ killed - NPC@annpc#557:- last night. The phasing seems to suggest something is being directed here specifically." Mischa@crystyl:"Perhaps the attention of another - yet unseen - psionic" NPC@annpc#557:| The guards step away from the various entrances into the square, and the crowd of civilians quickly begin to disperse NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Perhaps. We should leave with the locals as to not appear suspicious. Perhaps one of them knows more...if they are willing to speak after what has occurred." Mischa@crystyl:nods, "Let's go" NPC@annpc#557:| The team follows the crowd out of the square. The locals quickly begin to go their separate ways, and Acey leads the way once again as they no longer have a crowd to follow NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "I am seeing a bar, a greenhouse, what is likely a school and several private homes in this area. Which do you wish to proceed to first?" Mischa@crystyl:"Let's try the bar, anywhere else we'd be seen as outsiders" NPC@annpc#557:| Acey nods and begins heading towards the bar NPC@annpc#557:| As they step into the bar, they notice that it is almost completely empty. There is a single Romulan man behind the counter, and a Romulan woman in front of it. The man hands the woman a bottle - NPC@annpc#557:- of greenish drink and the woman slides over some of the local currency, taking the drink and promptly heading out. The bartender turns their attention to the newcomers NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "Bar's closed, but if you want a drink I can sell you a bottle to take away with you. Provided you can pay for it up front. No tabs right now." Mischa@crystyl:watches the woman and heads over, "No money either. We had to vacate our home in quite a hurry back there. We were... just hoping to sit and take the weight off our feet a bit" NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "I sympathize, but you heard the yikh back in the square. The Third Eye's turned on us. If people start gathering in my bar and thinking certain thoughts, well, the Zauger's going to - NPC@annpc#557:- know right away. And I don't want trouble." Mischa@crystyl:"The Zauger don't know we exist I assure you" NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "They can read our minds, of course they know you exist! They're like Remans, but the Remans didn't get much of a chance to develop their own tech when they served us. These aliens, - NPC@annpc#557:- they're a different story." Mischa@crystyl:"Not us. We are... former Republic. We fought in the war of the Heart but we... retired afterwards. The Republic fitted us all with chips that suppress our telepathic presence" NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "I've heard rumours about those chips from my suppliers on the Republic side of the border. They really protect you from the Zauger?" Mischa@crystyl:nods, "Tried and tested. So you don't have to worry about them sensing our presence. Of course if you would still prefer we leave, I understand and leave we shall" NPC@annpc#557:| The bartender considers for a second before sighing, "Fine. You can stick around for a bit. I'm curious myself to learn what brings an ex-Republic here to our colony. Usually I hear it's the other - NPC@annpc#557:- way around, people running off from our territories to join you. Given the state of the Star Empire and all." Mischa@crystyl:"Yes, believe me we would not have come had we known we faced the same brutality here" NPC@annpc#557:| The bartender nods, "Neither did we. We had it easy for a time, we've heard word of other colonies being treated brutally by the Empire, even ones supposedly snatched up by mushroom aliens or - NPC@annpc#557:- something. But we were doing decently in our colony until now." Mischa@crystyl:"Elachi - mushroom aliens - are known allies of the Star Empire and something we could deal with. But these guys you've got here are on a whole other level" NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "These implants you have, they surely give you an advantage, don't they? If that Third Eye of theirs is blind to you..." Mischa@crystyl:"Presumably, but we don't even know what this 'third eye' of theirs is! And be mindful of your thoughts, friend. /We/ might be invisible to them, but you are not" NPC@annpc#557:| The bartender nods, "You're right. As for this Third Eye, we don't know exactly what it is, either. All we know is what it can do. It's some kind of, well...brain sensor. That's the best way I - NPC@annpc#557:- describe it. From the way they've been talking about it, it sounds like the Third Eye is located on the cruiser they have in orbit. Like a regular sensor can scan a planet and lifesigns, this - NPC@annpc#557:- Third Eye device allows them to scan our minds and our thoughts." Mischa@crystyl:"A device of some kind? Well that's... different" NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "Well, that's what I gathered, at least. It's not a specific telepath, though a device like that probably needs a telepath to use. But it's certainly technology- maybe one of those - NPC@annpc#557:- biological technologies. I don't think I'll get in trouble for telling you what I heard, it's not a thought of resistance, after all, but..." Mischa@crystyl:"But...?” NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "The reason I closed the bar was because at the start of the occupation, one of the Star Empire officers who escaped the destruction of their planetside base came in here. Out of - NPC@annpc#557:- uniform and everything, but the Zauger found him, dragged him out and made a mess of my place. Took me days to get everything cleaned up. But before they killed him, he told me their sensors - NPC@annpc#557:- noticed something strange in all their larger ships- the cruisers and carriers. Some system no one recognized. And from everything we've been hearing about the Third Eye, I have a suspicion that - NPC@annpc#557:- unidentified system is it." NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "It's some kind of powerful sensor after all, and it makes sense it'd be a part of their ship. They certainly haven't built anything new planetside since they arrived to our knowledge." Mischa@crystyl:"Makes sense" she nods and smiles, "I must say you seem to be very well informed. Perk of the trade?" NPC@annpc#557:| The bartender smiles back, "You know what they say about us bartenders." Mischa@crystyl:"What I'm hoping they say is that you're the ones who know a way off an occupied planet..." NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "I'm afraid not. They've got that cruiser in orbit, raiders fast enough to chase down any ship, and they've configured the tachyon grid to work both ways. People have tried with small - NPC@annpc#557:- shuttles, but thanks to the Third Eye, the Zauger always find out about it. Though I suppose if anyone did get out, we wouldn't know any better. But there's no smuggling operation to get people - NPC@annpc#557:- out. Anything like that has long since been shut down by the Zauger." Mischa@crystyl:"I don't get it. How can the Emperor see fit to treat his people like this?" NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "I think it's because our colony was the first one he took by force instead of acknowledging his claim as Emperor. Probably thinks he's making an example out of us or something. I - NPC@annpc#557:- don't know if the other conquered worlds have it better than us or not. But I don't see how anyone can have it easy under Zauger occupation. It's hard to tell how much of this is the Emperor's - NPC@annpc#557:- direct command and how much is the yikhs doing their own thing. These Zauger are as cold as the Vulcans but with the brutal streak of Klingons." Mischa@crystyl:"Yes, we've noticed. So why exactly did this colony resist his claim anyway?" NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "Well, we've got an Imperial Navy garrison here. Had, anyways. It probably has something to do with that. If we had declared allegiance to Vitellius, they would've probably moved - NPC@annpc#557:- against us. In retrospect it might've been a better idea. We didn’t know when his forces would get here. If we sided with him, we might suffer some from the Imperial Navy, but his forces would've - NPC@annpc#557:- come as liberators and this whole occupation would never have happened. But hindsight's always clearer, isn't it?" Mischa@crystyl:"Indeed it is. Well, I suppose, at least it's not because you were planning to recede from the Empire and join the Republic. Or even that you were all such staunch loyalists you refused to recognize- Mischa@crystyl:- him over someone like a t'Rllaillieu" she laughs at the absurdity Mischa@crystyl:| Nikki glares over for no reason whatsoever NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "A t'Rllaillieu, like that Empress? Didn't know there was a member of that House in the race." Mischa@crystyl:leans in, "If there were, would that make a difference?" almost sounding serious. Almost NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "Back when the colony was making our initial decision on who to side with? Perhaps. Certainly not now, because I would never think about following anyone else other than our glorious - NPC@annpc#557:- Emperor, with the Third Eye on us and all." Mischa@crystyl:smiles, "Of course. Glory to the Emperor, naturally" NPC@annpc#557:| The bartender smiles back, "Glory to the Emperor." Mischa@crystyl:"Well, thank you for your hospitality. We do not wish to take any more of your time. Jolan'tru" NPC@annpc#557:| Bartender: "Jolan'tru." Mischa@crystyl:makes her way out NPC@annpc#557:| Acey follows, speaking once they are outside, "That was quite informative. A good choice of location, Commander." Mischa@crystyl:"Most insightful. Can you relay our findings to the ship or do we need to return in person?” NPC@annpc#557:| Acey: "Their cruiser will be able to pick up any subspace communication to and from the planet. While they are unlikely to be able to break our encryption and learn the contents of our messages, - NPC@annpc#557:- it will inform them to our presence here, and from that they may deduce the Latenter's. It will be safer to return." Mischa@crystyl:"Then let's get back" --- Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | After returning from the colony surface, the crew gathers to share their findings... Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Ran into trouble down there, Mischa? Wasn't expecting you to be gone for the whole night and morning." Mischa@crystyl:"It's a mess down there Yuzuchan, but no trouble to speak of. We just had to park a long way away" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris nods, "We've been studying their ships and determining the best tactics to use against them in the meantime. And we found something unusual. Ori, do you want to tell the Commander what we found - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- about that mystery system?" Mischa@crystyl | Ori: "We believe it to be a psionic resonator of some sort, not unlike the Trident artifact" Mischa@crystyl:"The Third Eye" she nods Mischa@crystyl | Ori pauses, "You... know this system already?" Mischa@crystyl smiles, "We didn't spend all that time on the surface sightseeing after all" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Is that what they call it? The Third Eye?" Mischa@crystyl nods, "Yes. Apparently it allow them to telepathically read a whole planet's population" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"That would certainly be useful for an occupation. We believe it could also be used in battle, which explains the effectiveness of their conquest so far." Mischa@crystyl:"They are using to suppress all sense of resistance down there" Mischa@crystyl | Nikki: "By which she means, burning everyone alive in the town centre who harbors even a hint of a thought of freedom" Mischa@crystyl | Ori looks to Nikki in disbelief Mischa@crystyl:"It is true, we saw it ourselves. We also learned that they are not able to sense our presence at all with our implants" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"That at least gives us an advantage over them." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Victoria: "We're not just going to leave the people down on the planet, right? I know they're Imperial Romulans and not our allies, but this occupation sounds as brutal as a Cardassian one, if - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- not worse." Mischa@crystyl:"Oh it is worse, believe you me. The Cardassians did unspeakable things to the Bajorans but at least they did it behind closed doors" Mischa@crystyl | Nikki: "We saw civilians burned alive in the town centre, and more heads on pikes than I care to remember" Mischa@crystyl:"We are however no closer to any of our actual objectives. I concur that it is not desirable to leave these people wanting, but that must remain secondary to our core objective" Mischa@crystyl | Ori: "We still need to learn about this faction and their plans" Mischa@crystyl nods, "And I see no other way besides getting on to that cruiser of theirs. /If/ we can find a way to shut them down and liberate the planet while there, all the better" she smiles, "At least we - Mischa@crystyl:- know they would welcome one new faction in particular" Mischa@crystyl | Nikki eyerolls Mischa@crystyl:"I know you don't like it Subcommander. But we can hardly free these people in the name of Starfleet Intelligence. If word got out of our presence here it could destabilize everything. However, a - Mischa@crystyl:- Romulan uprising overthrowing the oppression of their self proclaimed Emperor under the leadership of a recognized heir..." Mischa@crystyl | Ori: "I am no political strategist, but it does sound convincing. And very exciting!" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris smiles, "It's a good plan." Mischa@crystyl:"We can go back in with the same team, only this time we board the cruiser and hack their systems. Worst case, we take it out of the equation but hopefully we find a way to turn this 'third eye' - Mischa@crystyl:- against the ground troops to avoid civilian casualties" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Eirril: "You'll need a telepath along as well, then. If the Third Eye is anything like the Trident, a telepath will be required to operate it." Mischa@crystyl smiles, "You read my mind - no pun intended" Mischa@crystyl | Ori lingers on that thought for a moment before she gets it and giggles a little Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Eirril grins, "I'll come along with you, then. Should be enough room in the Dart for one more." Mischa@crystyl:"Then if there is nothing further, we should get to work" --- NPC@annpc#557 | Mischa and Nikki gather back in Acey's Dart, this time joined by Eirril. Lifting off from the Latenter, they make it through the tachyon detection grid without issue once again Mischa@crystyl:"Alright Acey, we need to find a hard-seal onto that cruiser without being detected. Time to show just how good you are" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods, "Searching...I have located four ideal points. Would you like my avatar to join you on this mission as well?" Mischa@crystyl:"Yes, your viral skills will be essential here" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey stands and smiles, "Excellent. The Dart will be in position in 41 seconds." Mischa@crystyl:"Alright, take us in nice and easy" NPC@annpc#557 | Outside the window, the Zauger cruiser looms closer and closer, until the Dart stops in position Mischa@crystyl:"Nicely done, I barely felt us touch down. Now to get inside" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "I should be able to hack the seal and open it without the use of force. They will still detect an unauthorized seal opening, however. We will need to expect enemy contact immediately." Mischa@crystyl:"That is not so fruitful... any way you can override their internal sensors?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Analyzing. I can hack into their internal sensors to render them blind to our presence. They will realize their systems have been compromised and likely attempt to search for us, but - NPC@annpc#557:- this will conceal our exact location from them." Mischa@crystyl:"Good enough" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods, "On it, Commander." --- NPC@annpc#557 | The team manage to make their way onto the Zauger cruiser undetected. The hall they enter from is clear, at least for the time being, but Acey announces, "Patrols are certainly increasing, but - NPC@annpc#557 - they cannot see us with internal sensors or the Third Eye." NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril nods, "I sense confusion. And a small degree of panic." Mischa@crystyl:"Alright Acey, this is your show right now. You know what you need to get access, so find it and lead the way" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "I have identified what seems to be the control centre for the Third Eye system. I will take us there." NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "While we are concealed from detection and I can manipulate their internal sensors to hide any confrontation with the crew, the Third Eye will still likely sense if we engage any of the - NPC@annpc#557 - Zauger. I will attempt to avoid any encounters along the way." Mischa@crystyl:"Please, I would prefer to complete this mission without drawing my weapon for once" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods, "Understood. With the internal sensors under my control, I can easily detect the crew and find routes to bypass them." NPC@annpc#557 | They proceed through the halls for a short while, before disappearing into maintenance tunnels and tubes. They climb for a good few minutes before emerging out into a different hallway NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "One moment. We just need to wait for the patrol to pass by." Mischa@crystyl nods and takes cover NPC@annpc#557 | A group of four Zauger grunts walk down the hall, disruptor rifles raised NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger 1: "How are the Sorcerers unable to detect these intruders? A sensor failure I can see, but they do not need the Third Eye to use their powers on the ship." NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger 2: "I agree. This is unusual." NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger 3: "Perhaps there are no intruders." NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger 1: "Why would they compromise our internal sensors, then?" NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger 3: "A distraction? I do not know." NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger 4: "Could it be the work of the Romulans on the surface?" NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger 2: "Impossible. The Third Eye would have detected such a scheme and we would have crushed it before it had a chance..." NPC@annpc#557 | Their voices fade away as they disappear down the hall NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Clear." NPC@annpc#557 | The group continue down the hall, soon disappearing into a different set of maintenance corridors before emerging in yet another hallway NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "We are almost at our destination, but there are guards outside the door we must enter. We may not be able to avoid engaging them." Mischa@crystyl hrms, "Could you assume the form of one of them?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods, "I can, but convincing them will be difficult with our currently limited understanding of their culture and military structure." Mischa@crystyl smiles, "That's fine. Just get us close, then we can take them out quickly and quietly" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Understood, Commander." She flickers away, assuming the form of an armoured Zauger soldier Mischa@crystyl takes her place as Acey's prisoner to be escorted openly up to the guards NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger-Acey approaches the guards with Mischa, "I have captured the infiltrator." NPC@annpc#557 | Guard 1: "Where is the rest of your squad?" NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger-Acey: "Dead. She was not easy to subdue." NPC@annpc#557 | Guard 2: "How have we not detected the fighting?" NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger-Acey: "The internal sensors are compromised, remember?" NPC@annpc#557 | Guard 1: "Why have you brought them here?" NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger-Acey: "I am on my own. I thought of seeking additional reinforcements to accompany the prisoner to the brig." Mischa@crystyl:"So we can do this" she pounces, hitting the nearest guard with a hypo to the neck NPC@annpc#557 | Zauger-Acey lunges at the second guard, taking him down before he has a chance to react. She flickers back to her usual self a few seconds later, "Their forms are quite deadly for - NPC@annpc#557 - close-quarters combat. Not as optimized as the Lupan, though." Mischa@crystyl:"Fortunately for us that you were able to get such detailed physiological scans of those we killed on the surface" she smiles, working with Eirril to hide one of the guards while Nikki helps Acey - Mischa@crystyl:- with the other NPC@annpc#557 | Acey smiles, "Yes, it was good that we had the opportunity! There is one more lifesign inside the control room." Mischa@crystyl:"Then let us make quick work of them" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods, setting her hand on the door. A holo-interface appears over it, which flickers momentarily before changing colour NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "The door is open. We may proceed when ready." Mischa@crystyl draws her weapon and heads in, looking to evade notice but ready to strike at a moments notice NPC@annpc#557 | Mischa finds herself in a large circular chamber with a central chair, but no one is seated on the chair. Instead, the red-armoured Sorcerer from the holo-projection on the planet's surface is - NPC@annpc#557 - standing behind it Mischa@crystyl tries to work her way as close as she can to get a clean shot without drawing attention NPC@annpc#557 | The sorcerer slowly turns around. A powerful force suddenly yanks Mischa's pistol from her grip, hurling it across the room. Before anyone else can enter, the door slides shut behind her NPC@annpc#557 | Acey turns to Nikki and Eirril, "I cannot open the door. It is not the system that closed it. Something is manually keeping it shut." NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril draws his phaser, looking to Nikki, "Then we'll have to cut through it." Mischa@crystyl | Nikki nods, getting straight to work NPC@annpc#557 | Meanwhile, the Sorcerer turns fully to Mischa, "I cannot sense you, but I sensed the consciousness flickering away from the two guards outside and knew someone must be coming. Tell me, who are - NPC@annpc#557 - you and how are you able to elude us?" Mischa@crystyl smiles, "What's the matter, not fun when you don't have all the answers to start?" NPC@annpc#557 | Sorcerer: "This was not what we expected. The Emperor never told us of anyone like you. Answer my question, and I may let you live. To be studied as a curiosity, of course." Mischa@crystyl:"You really need to work on your sales pitch. It would seem your fake Emperor has led you astray, not preparing you as well you thought to claim the Star Empire. We are born and bred to face threats- Mischa@crystyl:- far more insidious than you" NPC@annpc#557 | The Sorcerer laughs, "You underestimate us. The Emperor has led us right so far. We will crush you, just like we have everyone else who resisted us on this world." Mischa@crystyl:"Yet I am not the one caught off guard here. For all your parlour tricks and parading, all it took was one woman to breach your entire powerbase and evade your entire personnel complement to be - Mischa@crystyl:- standing here with you. And the best part? You are /still/ completely clueless as to how. If one person can achieve that, what do you think we will do with a 100, a 1000, 1000000?" NPC@annpc#557 | Sorcerer: "We shall pry the secrets from your corpse, and soon any others like you will suffer the same fate," The Sorcerer pounces at Mischa, jaw open and sharp teeth exposed... NPC@annpc#557 | Just then the door is cut open! Mischa@crystyl was just about to let the increasingly intense glowing wings on her back unfurl when she hears the door and instead ducks out of the way Mischa@crystyl | Nikki charges in, a disruptor in each hand on it's highest setting, firing indiscriminately towards the sorcerer with endless volleys NPC@annpc#557 | The Sorcerer pauses mid-charge, spinning around towards Nikki. He waves a hand, knocking the disruptors from her hand, but it is too late as several bolts are already flying towards him. His - NPC@annpc#557 - armour is little use against the maximum setting disruptor and sections of the plating is burned away. One of the bolts strikes his skin, and the Sorcerer disintegrates into nothing Mischa@crystyl | Nikki steps over and scrapes her boot across the scorched floor, "Far quicker than he deserved" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey and Eirril step inside after Nikki, weapons raised as well, but the Sorcerer is already dead by then Mischa@crystyl smiles, "Impeccible timing Subcommander" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Other psionics around the ship must have sensed what happened here. The crew is on the move. Permission to take over more ship systems, Commander?" Mischa@crystyl nods, "Do what you need to Acey. You too Eirril, you're up now" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril nods, stepping over to the central chair and desk. He takes out a tricorder, giving it a scan first, "This seems to be where their psionics interface with this Third Eye system." Mischa@crystyl:"Do you think you can utilize it?" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril runs the tricorder over the handrests and nods, "I believe so. It is an amplifier- the psionic abilities will still be controlled the same way I normally control my telepathy, only on a - NPC@annpc#557 - larger scale." He sits down on the chair, clasping his hands around the armrests and leaning back Mischa@crystyl:"Let's try and reign in the ground troops. Your discretion on the method" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril nods, closing his eyes. The console on the desk in front of him lights up with various data NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "I can feel...so many minds at once. The Romulan civilians, the Zauger soldiers..." Mischa@crystyl:"Stay focused Eirril. Keep it simple, send them all a message. You saw the Subcommander kill their leader, let them all see that - Romulan and Zaugar alike" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "I can do that. Broadcasting now." Mischa@crystyl:"Let them all see the face of the proud Romulan landing that killing blow. Make sure the Zaugar know this is the end for them" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril nods again as he focuses NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "The movement of the Zauger through the ship is becoming less coordinated. More chaotic." Mischa@crystyl:"Of course. They are panicked by what Eirril is showing them. Acey, can you open a shipwide intercom?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "I have access to the comm systems. Whoever was fighting my spread through the ship seems to have given up. Opening the intercom for you to speak now." Mischa@crystyl points to Nikki, "You're up" Mischa@crystyl | Nikki opens her mouth to protest Mischa@crystyl raises a hand, "No arguments, time to play your role here regardless of how you feel about it. Clear them out" Mischa@crystyl | Nikki sighs and approaches the console, "Zaugar interlopers, you presence in this system will no longer be tolerated by the Romulan people. We have control of your ship and the Third Eye. You saw- Mischa@crystyl:- what became of your sorcerer, leave this ship. Now. Anyone still on board in 5 minutes time will share his fate. Anyone still in the system in 10 will be made a further example of. I am - Mischa@crystyl:- Nikee ir-Fethraie t'Rllaillieu - the /true/ Empress of the Romulan people. You have been warned" Mischa@crystyl grins with self satisfaction, "Eirril I do hope you shared that with the population below too. And hopefully the Latenter, I want a holo of this moment" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril smirks, "As you wish, Commander." Mischa@crystyl | Nikki steps away, looking to Mischa, "I trust you're suitably happy now?" Mischa@crystyl gives a little faux applaud with her leather-glove clad hands, "I always knew you had it in you. You just needed a little encouragement, Em-" Mischa@crystyl | Nikki snaps, raising a finger, "DON'T say it!" Mischa@crystyl grins NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Some of the crew are heading to the shuttlebay and escape pods. Four of the raiders have fled the system, the remaining two appear to still be on the planet surface." NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "I believe their crews are running into a little trouble with the Romulans now." Mischa@crystyl:"Anything we can do to help the Romulans down there?" NPC@annpc#557 | EIrril: "I think they have things in hand. The Zauger on the surface are scattered and disorganized now. And I'm doing my best to keep them that way..." Mischa@crystyl:"Alright, don't push yourself. Just do what you can and disconnect when you can do no more" Mischa@crystyl:"Acey, I hope we're in a position to make good on the E-... Subcommander’s threat" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Some of the Zauger are still attempting to move towards our location. I believe all sense of command structure has failed and they are acting on largely independent desire now. Don't - NPC@annpc#557 - worry, I've already spaced the fourteen who came too close. I have full access to the environmental systems now, I am just providing them the allotted time. On precisely five minutes, I will - NPC@annpc#557 - render the rest of the vessel uninhabitable to the Zauger." Mischa@crystyl:"Very good then" Mischa@crystyl:"Once we have secured the ship we can focus on disseminating everything in their computers with a team of analysts from the Latenter" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey nods, "From what pieces I have gleamed while I was taking over the systems, this will be most useful for us." NPC@annpc#557 | A few seconds later, Eirril takes a deep breath as he lets go of the armrests, "I think the Romulans can take it from there. That was quite a challenge...even for an experienced and - NPC@annpc#557 - disciplined telepath such as myself." Mischa@crystyl smiles, helping him out of the chair, "You did a great job Eirril. Now rest" NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril: "With a bit more practice I could get used to this. I'm just not used to being able to affect so many minds at once. The Zauger themselves must undergo specialized training for it." Mischa@crystyl:"I imagine it to be quite the addictive sensation of power. Just remember that you already have that with the Network, and that doesn't put such a drain on you" she smiles NPC@annpc#557 | Eirril chuckles, "Good point. I think I'll stick with that. Leave going mad with psionic power to people like Vitellius." Mischa@crystyl:"Definitely" she chuckles NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "The remaining crew who did not evacuate have been neutralized. The vessel is secure, Commander." Mischa@crystyl:"Any remnants in the system?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Affirmative, but they are on their way out. Some of the raiders are picking up survivors from escape pods and some of the shuttles have not yet reached the system edge." Mischa@crystyl:"Alright, are we in a position to eliminate them when the time is up?" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "I have control of the weapons systems. I will open fire if they do not depart by the ten minute mark." Mischa@crystyl:"Thank you. Please let us know once the situation on the surface has subsided, I have a feeling people down there are going to want some answers. Once the system has been vacated we'll take down the- Mischa@crystyl:- tachyon grid and bring the Latenter in to start going over this tub" NPC@annpc#557 | Acey: "Understood. The environment is being restored to the rest of the ship. You may begin to explore if you like. I will keep you informed through comms." Mischa@crystyl:"Thank you Acey, I think I'll do just that" Mischa@crystyl turns to head out and start exploring --- NPC@annpc#557 | Mischa is exploring the ship when her combadge sounds NPC@annpc#557 | <C - Acey> "Commander. The last two raiders have launched from the surface- with Romulan lifesigns within." Nikki@crystyl | Mischa taps to responds, "Any comms from them?" NPC@annpc#557 <C - Acey> "We are just receiving one now. They are asking to speak with the Empress." Nikki@crystyl | Mischa: "Of course they are, please have them dock. Do you know if they have the equivalent of a conference room or office here that Nikki can use to greet them?" NPC@annpc#557 <C - Acey> "There are offices, as well as a private lounge for the Sorcerers." Nikki@crystyl | Mischa: "At the Subcommanders discretion then. I can head to the hangar and serve as escort" NPC@annpc#557 <C - Acey> "I'm directing them to dock now." --- Nikki@crystyl | Nikki initially arrives at the alien lounge to be met by a Starfleet transporter beam just finishing materializing. On closer inspection she can see that her precious relic has conveniently been - Nikki@crystyl - located and sent to her. She regards it with disgust, mostly at the continued string-pulling of her puppetmaster/CO NPC@annpc#557 | A short while later, Mischa arrives with a number of Romulans. They pause as they look towards, Nikki, their eyes widening on recognition of the artifact. One of them asks, "Is that what I - NPC@annpc#557 - think it is?" Nikki@crystyl nods, "Yes it is" she stands, "Jolan'tru, how is everyone on the surface?" NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 2: "Much better now that the aliens are gone, but we are still without leadership." NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 3: "They executed our government for refusing to acknowledge Vitellius as Emperor." Nikki@crystyl retakes her seat, inviting the others to join her, "Well congratulations, you are all now the new government here" NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 4: "I suppose we are the closest thing there is left...the local community leaders of our settlements." NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 1: "And on behalf of the people of Seginus, we thank you for liberating us, Empress." Nikki@crystyl shudders, "Please, no. I am no Empress. That was just propaganda to throw the Zaugar into chaos" NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 2: "But you are a t'Rllaillieu of /the/ Rllaillieus, are you not?" Nikki@crystyl sighs, "Yes..." NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 2: "Then you have a claim to the position. A better one than Vitellius, many would argue." Nikki@crystyl:"True as that may be, Vitellius is a leader of something. I am but a simple Republic soldier" NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 4: "Does that mean this will now be a Republic colony?" Nikki@crystyl:"That is up to you. Though I would strongly consider allowing a detachment to protect you, at least in the short term. Republic forces share our immunity to the Zaugar" NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 3: "Yes, I agree. Even with these captured vessels, we only have one cruiser and two raiders. We can fend off pirates, but not another invasion." NPC@annpc#557 | The other Romulans nod as well Nikki@crystyl:"I will reach out to the Republic fleet then and advise them of the situation. As I said, this is not an attempt to tie you to the Republic - just a means to give you protection in the short term. - Nikki@crystyl:- When the Zaugar threat is dealt with I will make sure that the Republic abides by your wishes; be that to join them, remain neutral or return to the Empire" Nikki@crystyl | Mischa chimes in: "Or return to a new - reformed - Empire at the reigns of a t'Rllaillieu" NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 2: "I understand. We should continue to go with the story that an Empress of House Rllaillieu freed the colony, in either case. If we say it was a Republic officer, that would put the - NPC@annpc#557 - Republic in a difficult situation with Vitellius' forces." NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 4 nods, "He will no doubt attempt to attack your people after he has gained control of the entire Star Empire, but it is always better not to give him an excuse to do so." Nikki@crystyl:"Agreed. I am doing this to ensure he does not get that opportunity. And a man of his stature will know my family name better than anyone, so when word of our little stunt here reaches him it will - Nikki@crystyl:- give him pause for thought" Nikki@crystyl | Mischa: "I know you never had any desires to reclaim your heritage. But how much more evidence do you need? The relic that found its way into your hands, the situation with Vitellius now, and - Nikki@crystyl:- the inescapable conclusion that you are going to have to maintain this posture as a figurehead in order to defeat him. Many like Vitellius seek power for power's sake, but great leaders never seek- Nikki@crystyl:- power - power seeks them, as it has you. I thank the Elements that you - a Republic officer - has been chosen to fulfill this purpose, as I for one believe that this is exactly what the Empire - Nikki@crystyl:- needs now - it needs you, someone who will rebuild bridges with the Republic, not burn them down! All hail Empress t'Rllaillieu!" Nikki@crystyl facepalms NPC@annpc#557 | Romulans: "Hail Empress t'Rllaillieu!" Nikki@crystyl looks to Mischa, "Now look what you've done!" NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 4: "We will make it known that you as Empress liberated our colony and we decided to ask independently for Republic protection, to ensure the Republic does not antagonize Vitellius - NPC@annpc#557 - immediately if nothing else. But she is right- Vitellius is a problem for all our people, and challenging him as Emperor with a better claim is the best way to stop him." Nikki@crystyl wags a finger, "Not Republic protection as that suggests something to defend and by extension something to retake. The request will be for aid and relief efforts, aimed at the Republic since they - Nikki@crystyl:-currently neutral" NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 1 smiles and nods, "Of course. We will make sure to emphasize aid and support, not protection." Nikki@crystyl:"I will speak to the nearest Republic fleet and let you know as soon as I have any developments. In the meantime I suggest you focus on rebuilding and reinvigorating your citizens" NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 3 nods, "There is much of that to be done. How long will you remain here, Emp- and how should we address you?" Nikki@crystyl:"My name is Nikee, that suits me just fine. Maybe I will have to wield that title at times during this fight but not when talking among friends like this. As for how long, that is yet uncertain. We- Nikki@crystyl:- have a lot of work to do in deciphering this ship's computers. Hopefully that will occupy us up to the arrival of reinforcements" NPC@annpc#557 | Romulan 4: "We'll contact you if we require anything then, Nikee." Nikki@crystyl nods, "Then do lot me keep you from your people any longer. We will speak again soon my friends" NPC@annpc#557 | The Romulans stand, and Romulan 1 bows slightly before he leaves, "Thank you again for all you have done, Nikee." Nikki@crystyl smiles, "And thank you for the vote of confidence" --- Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | Some time later, after Mischa has returned to the Latenter and the crew has begun work on studying the ship... Mischa@crystyl stands at the window in her ready room, sipping a cup of tea and looking out at the Zaugar cruiser now alongside them Goto Yuzuki@anncaris | As Mischa looks out the window, the doorbell rings Mischa@crystyl turns, "Come in" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris steps into the room with a PADD, "How's it going, Mischa?" Mischa@crystyl smiles, looking back to the window, "Quite the turn of events this mission has taken us on, wouldn't you say Yuzuchan? We set out to reign in a renegade SFC ship and ended up now dabbling in a - Mischa@crystyl:- political rivalry to determine the future of all Romulan factions" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"That it certainly has. I had a feeling we might get into some Romulan intrigue during our time out here, but I didn't expect this." Mischa@crystyl:"I wouldn't have believed you if you said you had expected this" she chuckles, "I don't know if this is bringing us further in line with our primary objective, or taking us further away from it. But- Mischa@crystyl:- I do believe we are where we are meant to be" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Well, we are going after one rogue, out of control Romulan faction in the Shadow Guard. It's not too much of a stretch to get involved in a second. And I think these people will lead us to what - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- seeking sooner or later." Mischa@crystyl:"I concur. If nothing else, making this power play could aid us in the fight against them if we can position Nikki to command the bulk of the Romulan forces - Imperial and Republic alike" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris nods and smiles, "Good thinking as always, Mischa. Anyways, we're still working through all the data on the cruiser, but I have a decent picture of how these Zauger are organized now." Mischa@crystyl turns setting her tea down, "Excellent. So what do we know?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"As we suspected, a good portion of their people are psionic, but not all. They operate a caste system largely determined by their psionic ability." She hands Mischa a PADD and takes a seat Mischa@crystyl sits, reviewing hte PADD, "Represented by the colour variants we've seen I assume?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"No, the colours determine their specific ranks within a caste. The castes themselves are different." Mischa@crystyl:"Aah, that makes sense. What about Vitellius, do we have anything more solid on him and his movements?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Not yet, other than the fact that they're making a beeline for Rator III. But we do know how he gained the loyalty of the Zauger now." Mischa@crystyl:"Oh?" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"As I said previously, a Zauger's position in their society is directly determined by their psionic power. The lowest caste, the Labourers, have no psionic capabilities whatsoever. Because of that, - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- they're stuck at the bottom of society for their entire lives. Despite the name, they don't just all do hard labour. There's skilled technicians and engineers among them, but they're always the - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- lowest when it comes to any chain of command, military or civilian, because of their lack of psionic power. On the other hand, we have the Sorcerers, the highest caste, comprised exclusively of - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- the strongest Zauger psionics. They're essentially equivalent to ancient Earth nobility." Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Vitellius and his people were initially captured and enslaved by the Zauger. Slaves are technically lower than Labourers, but they're not really counted as a caste as they're not Zauger- conquered - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- aliens are made into slaves. He actually led a rebellion but was crushed by the Zauger. They didn't execute him however because a prominent Sorcerer recognized his tactical acumen and kept him as - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- a personal slave, and he essentially became a military advisor. Then the barrier dispersal happened. As Acey noted, the Zauger aren't a Children species, so they weren't affected, but Vitellius - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- was. He suddenly became more powerful than any Zauger Sorcerer, and despite the fact that he was an alien to them, they respected psionic power so much they all bowed to him. Well, most of them, - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- at least. You can imagine what happened to the ones who didn't." Mischa@crystyl:"Indeed. What a shame I did not steal young Sin away for this mission. She would be well suited to overthrow him simply by proving herself superior" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Well, we didn't set out to overthrow a power-mad psionic, after all," she smirks. "It's good that we brought Nikki, she'll be a significant asset here. Besides, do we really want a race of - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- powerful psionics to pledge their allegiance to Sin?" Mischa@crystyl chuckles, "Perhaps not. Better the devil you know after all" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris chuckles, "True. Anyways, it's only the Sorcerers and Assassins we have to watch out for when it comes to psionic ability. The Warrior Caste, their rank and file in the military, has some, but - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - tends to be on the lower end of the spectrum, with basic empathy or even less, just the ability to sense other life around them. The more telepathic ones among the Warriors tend to obtain - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- higher ranks. The more psionic you are in Zauger society, the more respected you are, which is why they build these raiders with minimal defenses. They're meant to be crewed by the lower warriors - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris - and just thrown at the enemy without much of a care for their deaths, since they're barely psionic." Mischa@crystyl:"Of course, all this means that Vitellius maintains a zealous hold over them. A difficult bond to break" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"He has two heirs as well, Viria ir-Sath’har t’Eihssuil and Averius ir-Zaug tr’Eihssuil. It seems Averius didn't receive much psionic power and he's taken to leading military forces in the front - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- lives to prove himself. Viria, the eldest, is set to inherit her father's position, and she has psionic power, but it's unclear whether she's as strong as her father." Mischa@crystyl:"So in order to shut this uprising down we either need a more powerful psionic to usurp him, or to somehow make him not-psionic" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"Turning his daughter against him is an option, but that's probably not going to be easy to do. There's not much personal details on them in the cruiser's files." Mischa@crystyl:"And even then, she would still be a powerful psionic in a position of power we don't want anyone in" Mischa@crystyl:"Still, that doesn't mean that we should not look into her. Perhaps there is something in the relationship we can use" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"We'll see what we can find. I don't think simply eliminating Vitellius and his heirs will be enough- he's only been Emperor for a few months, and this invasion has been planned for a lot longer - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- than that. I suspect the Zauger were using his knowledge of the Romulans to plan a conquest back when he was just a tactical advisor, and he's simply put these plans into action for his own - Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:- agenda. Without him, the Zauger might very well continue their campaign in their own name." Mischa@crystyl:"Indeed. As much as we have learned here, we are still a long way off" Goto Yuzuki@anncaris nods, "We'll keep digging. The cruiser's also given us data on their comm networks, which'll be a great help learning more going forwards." Mischa@crystyl:"Of course, Eirril will have plenty to keep him busy now. Ori too, I hear she was in the first boarding party and wasted no time in crawling all over their tactical systems" she chuckles Goto Yuzuki@anncaris:"There's a lot to study. I'll keep you updated if we learn anything else immediately relevant to the mission." Mischa@crystyl:"Very good, thank you"