ST:SoD115 | "A New Beginning"

Stardate 99001

A ship belonging to a previously unencountered branch of the Guardians seeks out the Valley Forge for assistance in building a new future now that the Horde has been eradicated.

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Keliaya@anncaris | 6241 YEARS AGO Keliaya@anncaris | On the surface of a clearly advanced planet with towering structures and flying shuttles. a long line of people extends down a street. Or rather, multiple lineups of people, which from - Keliaya@anncaris - above looks like one thick line covering the entirety of the street. The camera swoops down into the lineup and we begin to see details of the aliens. They are typical bipedal aliens who look - Keliaya@anncaris - mostly human save for a pattern of hexagons arranged in the centre of their foreheads. Some are dressed in what is clearly a uniform, while others wear different clothes. The tone is somber - Keliaya@anncaris - and quiet, and almost no one in the mass of people lining up is speaking a word Keliaya@anncaris | The camera settles over the shoulder of one uniformed male near the front of the line. They are all lining up to enter a large but relatively flat building. The people ahead of the male alien - Keliaya@anncaris - step inside, and he finds himself right by the door Keliaya@anncaris | The young male looks around nervously, then he finds a hand on his shoulder. Glancing back, he spots an older bearded male in uniform Keliaya@anncaris | Older Male: "You can do this, soldier." Keliaya@anncaris | Young Male: "What if it fails for me? I'm not ready to die." Keliaya@anncaris | Older Male: "No one ever is. But I've seen what it's like out there." Keliaya@anncaris | Young Male: "Is it that bad?" Keliaya@anncaris | Older Male: "Worse. The war was lost before it even began. Our lives are already over. But it is better to die as ourselves than to live as one of them. That is why you joined, isn't it? So - Keliaya@anncaris:- you could die on your own terms." Keliaya@anncaris | Young Male: "No. I joined to fight. To make them pay for what they've done to our people." Keliaya@anncaris | Older Male: "Then remember that, and you'll make it through. You can do this." Keliaya@anncaris | The door slides open. The bracelets of the young man and all those around him light up. They file inside the building, and the door closes behind them. Following glowing arrows on the walls, - Keliaya@anncaris - they are led to a massive chamber filled with what appear to be some kind of medical beds. They check their bracelets, which display several alien symbols, and proceed to the bed marked with - Keliaya@anncaris - the same symbols. The young man lies down as a glass lid closes over his bed. He takes another look around, and everyone else is similarly sealed inside Keliaya@anncaris | A line of light appears at his neck, sweeping up over his head, then down, repeating the procedure and seemingly scanning him. His eyes flicker closed, and the screen fades out Keliaya@anncaris | The black screen is broken by a red light shining through. As the red light moves across the screen, it illuminates what seems to be a metallic face Keliaya@anncaris FX | https://therpf-f28a.kxcdn.com/forums/data/avatars/l/10/10748.jpg?1558405838 Keliaya@anncaris | Metallic whirring and clanking can be heard as the android moves forward, completely naturally despite the darkness. Stepping out a door, it enters a much better lit hallway, giving us a - Keliaya@anncaris - closer look Keliaya@anncaris FX | https://media.battlestarwiki.org/w/images/f/f0/Cylon_Centurion%2C_%22The_Hub%22.jpg Keliaya@anncaris | The robotic being looks around, right, then left. There is no one else. It follows the same glowing arrows out, emerging in a square where countless others of identical appearance are assembled Keliaya@anncaris | It steps forward, joining the formation of robots. The camera zooms out once again, showing that they are standing on the other side of the building, while people are still lining up down the - Keliaya@anncaris - street on the other side. Another block of people disappear into the building, and this time, two robots emerge to join the formation Keliaya@anncaris | The camera zooms further and further out, and we see multiple other buildings in the city with the same lineups and the same android formations Keliaya@anncaris | Then, the city and its people become indistinct as the camera zooms out far enough to show the entire planet, and specifically, a ship sitting above orbit Keliaya@anncaris FX | https://i.imgur.com/C8cIkRV.jpg Keliaya@anncaris | The camera passes through the hull of the ship into a room filled with consoles, where one of the aliens is standing with one of the androids Keliaya@anncaris | Alien: "Conversion success rate so far is only 0.11%, Admiral." Keliaya@anncaris | Android: "That will leave us with approximately five hundred and seventeen thousand people once we are finished. Not enough to mount a successful defense." Keliaya@anncaris | Alien: "Do you want to halt it?" Keliaya@anncaris | Android: "No. Within these metal shells still dwell the souls of our people. Through duranium we will endure. This is the only way. Continue the conversions, doctor." Keliaya@anncaris | Alien: "As you wish, Lord Admiral." --- Keliaya@anncaris | PRESENT DAY Keliaya@anncaris sits in the command chair as Keelah is called to the bridge Keelah@crystyl strolls in a short time later, "What have we got?" Keliaya@anncaris stands, "A pursuit between two vessels at warp. Both of them have unfamiliar configurations." Keelah@crystyl | Rianni: "Whoever they are, it's a real game of cat and mouse out there. The one chasing is a much more powerful warship than the other" Keelah@crystyl hrms, "How far out are they?" Keliaya@anncaris | Ann: "'Bout point one light years, Cap'n. Twelve minutes away at max warp." Keelah@crystyl:"Adjust course to intercept and begin broadcasting a general hail. Let's see if we can find out what's going on in the meantime" Keliaya@anncaris | Ann: "Aye Cap'n." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "Broadcasting general hail." Keelah@crystyl | Rianni: "The ship being chased has just being knocked out of warp with what look like phaser cannons" Keelah@crystyl:"Understood" Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "The pursuing vessel has opened a channel with us, audio-only." Keelah@crystyl:"Alright, let's see what they have to say" Keliaya@anncaris | A voice that clearly has a robotic modification to it, albeit without an emotionless computer-voice tone, comes through the audio, "Greetings, Valley Forge. We have been seeking you." Keelah@crystyl:"Is that so? What about the vessel you are currently pursuing, were you seeking them as well?" Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "Negative. The vessel matches reports of pirate activity in the region. They are being disabled following failure to comply with a search." Keelah@crystyl:"Then I trust you will have no objection to waiting until we arrive so that we can verify that status. The Coalition has numerous outstanding warrants for pirate activity so we should clear any we - Keelah@crystyl:- can. Assuming your accusation is sound of course, since we only have your word for it right now" Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "We will disable their engine and weapons systems and await your arrival." Keelah@crystyl:"Very good. So who exactly are you? Your vessel is not something we recognize yet you seem all too familiar with us" Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "Our operating theatres are different from your own. We have never encountered you before, but we know of you by reputation through our mutual acquaintances. We are the Iron Guardians." Keelah@crystyl:"Well then, I hope our mutual acquaintances have been speaking well of us" Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "That is why we are here. Our mutual acquaintances are the Guardian Chapter of Issandros, formerly of Skormir, and the Guardian Rangers. I am unsurprised that you have not heard of us. - Keliaya@anncaris - Do you have a member of the biological Guardians you may contact?" Keliaya@anncaris looks to Keelah, "We have Idate on the Aethon." Keelah@crystyl nods, "Yes, and we will do so. If you need to relay any message to them we can take time for it once we reach you. We're only a few minutes away now" Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "That will not be necessary. It is you we seek, not Issandros' Chapter. I am only asking as they will be able to confirm our mutual acquaintance." Keelah@crystyl:"Of course. We will convene shortly at your location then. Valley Forge out" Keelah@crystyl:"Eva, get me Idate on the Aethon" Keliaya@anncaris | Eva nods, "Already on it, Captain." Keliaya@anncaris | A second later, Idate appears on the viewscreen, "Captain Keelah. How can I help you today?" Keelah@crystyl:"Hello Idate. I have a very quick question for you; the Iron Guardians - what can you tell me of them?" Keliaya@anncaris | Idate: "The Iron Guardians are a division of our Order, like the various Chapters and the Rangers. That's the quick version, at least. Would you like more detail?" Keelah@crystyl:"We're arriving to meet them in a few minutes. They claim to have been seeking us out, but I do not know why now since the Horde has been eliminated. They were pursuing a small vessel they claim to - Keelah@crystyl:- be responsible for pirate activity. I need to know everything you do to put this all into context" Keliaya@anncaris | Idate: "We don't have a mental link with them, but we trust the Iron Guardians. They have been a boon against the Horde since our very formation. They are not infallible, of course, and they - Keliaya@anncaris - could be mistaken, but I have no reason to doubt their intentions. If they say they are pursuing pirates, they should at least have reason to believe that these people are pirates." Keelah@crystyl:"Do they share records with your chapter that we could use to verify their claims assuming this folly isn't flagged on Coalition shared records?" Keliaya@anncaris | Idate: "It depends on what you mean by records, but we're aware of all the members of the Iron Guardians, unless they joined within the last half-century. I'm assuming they aren't Nuhar, since - Keliaya@anncaris - you don't recognize them. If you send me your scan data, I can check it out for you." Keelah@crystyl:"Thank you, sending it now" Keliaya@anncaris | Idate nods, tapping on her console, "Yes, that's a Bisrentiri ship. I can use my connection to find its name, but the species alone is enough to confirm them as known members." Keelah@crystyl:"Alright thank you. Please feel free to monitor comms once we arrive and reach out if you feel it is pertinent at any point" Keliaya@anncaris | Idate: "I can provide additional context on the Iron Guardians if you require, and the Bisrentir. Though I might get carried away with the history lesson, so maybe when you're not in the - Keliaya@anncaris - middle of a situation and the pirates are dealt with," she chuckles Keelah@crystyl smiles, "I appreciate your help as always, Idate. Thanks again" Keliaya@anncaris | Idate smiles back, "Happy to help, Captain." Keliaya@anncaris | As the comm ends, Ann announces, "Droppin' out o' warp in twenty seconds." Keelah@crystyl:"Ok, time to find out what this all about then" Keliaya@anncaris | As the warp streaks turn back onto stars, the Bisrentiri ship appears on the viewscreen, looming over the disabled vessel Keliaya@anncaris FX | https://i.imgur.com/rQFI1KR.jpg Keelah@crystyl:"Open a channel" Keliaya@anncaris | Eva nods, "Channel open, Captain." Keelah@crystyl:"Iron Guardians, this is Captain Se'Lai of the Valley Forge. Your identity has been corroborated, please relay the details of your pursuit here" Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "We are sending it to you now." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva taps her console, "I have it. Looks like several ships in this region reports having been robbed by this vessel. There's full cargo manifests of missing items on here, some very detailed - Keliaya@anncaris - reports. A portion of the stolen items are salvage obtained from former Horde planets, but there's also pieces of Corporate tech." Keliaya@anncaris:"Those often have serial codes and IDs. Should be easy to verify." Keelah@crystyl:"Alright, let's see if we can't verify some of those then. Meanwhile, it's about time I speak to the accused pirate" Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "I'm hailing them now." Keliaya@anncaris | An alien appears on the viewscreen, "So you must be the famous Starblade the Lupan talk about." Keelah@crystyl:"Must be. And you are?" Keliaya@anncaris | Alien Captain: "The name's Makks. Wha'd you want?" Keelah@crystyl:"Your vessel matches the description of one wanted for multiple crimes against Coalition allies. What do you have to say in your defense?" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks: "This is free space out here. Your Coalition doesn't have any colonies or ships this far out into former Horde territory. What gives you jurisdiction here?" Keelah@crystyl:"Here specifically?" she shrugs, "Nothing much. However I believe you are already acquainted with our ironclad friends. They seem less concerned with jurisdiction" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks: "That they are. Think you can get them off our backs? I can pay you well for it." Keelah@crystyl:"We are a long way from our home and resources are scarce for us. It is... feasible that I would find myself ingratiated to someone who was able to assist with our supply problems. A moment" she - Keelah@crystyl:- mutes and looks to one side, "What is some of the Corporate equipment reported stolen?" Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "Several survey probes, a batch of plasma-based personal weaponry, a transporter module and various pieces of mining equipment. Keelah@crystyl nods, unmuting again, "Apologies, but I had to check our current reserves. We are presently in need of survey probes and mining equipment. Plus, of course, any form of weaponry we can appropriate. - Keelah@crystyl:- So Captain, what do you say?" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks: "Of course! We'll send you our best right away. Stand by for transport." Keelah@crystyl smiles and nods, "I had a feeling you would be just the man I was hoping you would be. Stand by while we take receipt and inform the Iron Guardians of what is transpiring" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks nods back and the comm cuts Keelah@crystyl:"Check those parts against Corporation records. I will continue dialogue with the Iron Guardians" Keliaya@anncaris | Thorkildsen nods, "We're on it now!" Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "I have the Iron Guardians back on the channel." Keelah@crystyl:"Iron Guardians, you have undoubtedly detected a transport in progress" Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "That is correct. What is the purpose of it? It seems as if they are transporting their cargo onto your vessel willingly." Keelah@crystyl:"They are. I gave them the impression that it was in their best interests to provide us with certain supplies. An act which they seem to have the impression will curry favour with us to the point of- Keelah@crystyl:- letting them go. However my staff are currently verifying the serial numbers of the specific items against those reported stolen by this vessel from the Corporation" Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "A clever approach. We had intended to board them directly, but they would have likely attempted to resist. Many of them may be injured or killed in the process." Keelah@crystyl:"This is the advantage of our arriving after the fact as it positions us as a possible escape for them. Now assuming these supplies are verified, what is your planned course of action for them?” Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "According to our maps, there is a Corporate colony one day's travel from our present location. We plan to hand them over to the resident Corporation for processing." Keliaya@anncaris | Thorkildsen: "We haven't gone through every piece yet, but I can confirm all the Corporate supplies we've checked so far matches the ID of the stolen equipment." Keelah@crystyl nods to Thorkildsden, "Thank you. Iron Guardians, we have verified the presented supplies as those reported stolen from the Corporation. If it pleases, perhaps we can accompany you to the Corporate- Keelah@crystyl:- colony and take the time to get better acquainted" Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "That is an amenable arrangement. We will tow the pirate vessel along and lead the way." Keelah@crystyl:"Very good. Let us get underway and ensure these pirates aren't going to make any more trouble, then perhaps you would like to come aboard to meet properly" Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "We shall do so. Thank you for your assistance, Valley Forge." Keelah@crystyl:"I look forward to welcoming your contingent on board" Keliaya@anncaris | Voice: "We will beam aboard once we are certain the pirate vessel is secure and will not attempt any tricks." Keelah@crystyl:"Well, our pirate friends are probably not going to be happy" Keliaya@anncaris | Thorkildsen: "Fortunately the Iron Guardians have seen to it that they don't have any weapons anymore." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "They're hailing us now. Do you want me to put them through, or ignore them?" Keelah@crystyl:"No put them through, it's only fair" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks appears on the viewscreen, "What's happening? That other ship's put a tractor beam on us. I thought you were going to get them to leave us alone!" Keelah@crystyl:"I said no such thing, only that I would relay to them what was happening and that exactly what I have done" Keelah@crystyl:"Unfortunately, what was happening is us learning that the supplies you sent us were stolen from the Corporation. They were good enough to furnish us with the serial numbers of their missing goods - Keelah@crystyl:- see" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks: "You little..." he growls. "Should've transported a live torpedo onto your ship instead. Where are they taking us?" Keelah@crystyl:"To a Corporation outpost nearby" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks: "Oh good, at least it's the Corpses and not the Felmorans. Can I get the goods back, at least? We didn't kill anyone- if we give the stuff back intact, I might be able to cut a deal - Keliaya@anncaris - with the Corporation, get away with a few years of freelancer duty without pay or something." Keelah@crystyl:"We will hold on to the supplies and present them to the Corporation on your behalf upon arrival" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks: "Alright, we'll do it your way." The comm cuts Keelah@crystyl nods to herself, "Yes. You will" Keliaya@anncaris | Ann: "The Iron Guardian ship's just jumped to warp with the pirate vessel in tow. Ready to follow on your command, Cap'n." Keelah@crystyl:"Match course and speed. Engage" Keliaya@anncaris | Ann nods, "Aye, engagin' now." She taps on her console and the stars stretch out into streaks before them on the viewscreen again Keliaya@anncaris:"Maybe we could ask Idate for more information on these Iron Guardians while we wait for them to beam over." Keelah@crystyl:"An excellent idea, let's get the line back open" Keliaya@anncaris | Eva taps her console a few times, and Idate returns on the viewscreen Keliaya@anncaris | Idate: "Hello again, Captain. Solved the pirate situation, I hope?" Keelah@crystyl:"For now, though I expect there will be more arguments with them once we reach our destination" Keliaya@anncaris | Idate: "And the Iron Guardians?" Keelah@crystyl:"Will be joining us shortly for a proper introduction" Keliaya@anncaris | Idate smiles, "Great! I assume you'd like to know more about them?" Keelah@crystyl:"Much as I enjoy learning about a new people first hand, I find it helpful to have insight from those who already know them" Keliaya@anncaris | Idate: "Well, as you know, we Guardians gain our resistance from the Horde through our connection with the World Tree, which also links us to one another. That's what makes someone a true - Keliaya@anncaris:- Guardian; there are Guardian recruits who haven't undergone the ritual yet, but that's another story. Of course, there are some who are naturally resistant to Horde control like the Lupan. Before - Keliaya@anncaris:- you came along, most of them weren't amenable to working with us; we had the odd pack who've helped us in the past, generally as mercenaries. But there's another group who are immune to the Horde- non-organic life." Keelah@crystyl:"Like the Iron Guardians" she surmizes Keliaya@anncaris | Idate nods, "The Iron Guardians are the division of our Order comprising purely synthetic life. They're not Guardians in the sense that they can't be linked with us, but we all fight for the - Keliaya@anncaris:- same goal against the same enemy, so we still consider them our brothers and sisters in arms. They operate outside our regular command structures because we can't organize with them as - Keliaya@anncaris:- efficiently as we do among ourselves, so they're almost more like allies in some senses than actual members of our Order. But we've fought together in many battles, and independently in some - Keliaya@anncaris:- others. I'm sure you've heard of Nuhar constructs who joined the Guardians, if not from a Guardian then from one of the other Constructs. These would be members of the Iron Guardians- in fact, - Keliaya@anncaris:- the very first Iron Guardians were Nuhar and the division was created to accommodate them initially." Keelah@crystyl:"I see. So this particular group we are travelling with now, are they of a synthetic race of their own or a group of mixed synthetic races serving together under the Iron banner?" Keliaya@anncaris | Idate: "The Bisrentir are an interesting case. They're a synthetic race now, but they were once a Children species that was consumed by the Horde. They were one of the few who found a way to - Keliaya@anncaris:- resist Horde control, but unlike your people and ours, their solution was more extreme. They transferred their consciousness into synthetic bodies and became a machine race. Most of them died in - Keliaya@anncaris:- the process because it was a desperate final resort and the process wasn't very refined. The ones who survive eventually found the Guardians and became members of the Iron Guardians." Keelah@crystyl:"Digitalization of a biological consciousness? Fascinating. Many have tried such a thing, few have seen any measure of success. Do you have any inclination as to why they would be seeking us out now? Keliaya@anncaris | Idate: "No, not really. The World Tree has recollection of them making contact with other Guardians of a different Chapter, who told them about our work here and how the end of Horde came - Keliaya@anncaris:- along. They learned about you, the Heart of Unity and the Coalition and seemed quite intrigued, but we don't know what specifically prompted them to send a ship out this way. Perhaps to introduce - Keliaya@anncaris:- themselves to the Coalition properly and become part of the joint efforts?" Keelah@crystyl:"Perhaps. Their entire synthetic existence seems tailored to survive the Horde. Now they have achieved that I would imagine they are now seeking a new future" Keliaya@anncaris | Idate: "That's certainly a possibility. I suppose we'll learn of their intentions soon enough when you speak to them in person. Their forms are tailored to fight the Horde, so they might look - Keliaya@anncaris:- intimidating and dangerous, but they're just people like us. Well, thousands of years older, but they were once exactly like you and me, and have maintained their individuality unlike groups such - Keliaya@anncaris - as the Borg." Keelah@crystyl:"It will be interesting to meet them. And don't worry, after Regulators, friendly Borg, Torokei and Lupan they will be hard pushed to seem intimidating" she smiles Keliaya@anncaris | Idate chuckles, "Good point." --- NPC@annpc#557 | A short while later, Keelah awaits in the transporter room as the Bisrentiri Iron Guardians beam over. Three figures materialize on the pad, and when the process is complete, three - NPC@annpc#557 - identical armoured bipedal robots stand. Though the frames are all exactly the same, there has been some attempts to personalize them, with symbols and colours painted on various parts of - NPC@annpc#557 - their chassis, most prominently on the centre of their foreheads and the shoulder pauldrons Keelah@crystyl looks them up and down curiously and smiles, "Welcome to the Valley Forge, I am Captain Se'Lai" NPC@annpc#557 | The three step off the transporter pad, walking with metallic footsteps. The one in the lead speaks, "I am Captain Thal-Ked." He gestures to the one on his right, "This is Kat-Cer, my - NPC@annpc#557 - second in command and ground force commander," then to the one on his left, "and Jahl-Tu, my chief life-technician." Keelah@crystyl:"It is a pleasure to meet you all properly at last. Since we have already established something of an understanding and mutual recognition I will forego the usual pleasantries. You said before that- Keelah@crystyl:- you were seeking us. Perhaps some brief elaboration will allow us to accomodate you more thoroughly" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "It is a long story. Would you prefer to have a place to sit? Standing and speaking here may not be the most comfortable for your biological form." Keelah@crystyl:"Of course, we can use a nearby conference room. Please, right this way" she heads out NPC@annpc#557 | The three synthetics follow along Keelah@crystyl:"I would be forced to assume that your sustenance needs are significantly different to our own, and so typical refreshments we would offer as a courtesy would presumably be ill-advised. If however - Keelah@crystyl:- there is anything that you would enjoy then please let me know and we will see what we can do" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "We require only power, but we have significantly refined our power sources over the years. We do not currently need recharging." Keelah@crystyl:"I had a feeling you would say something to that effect, but I find it best never to make assumptions in these circumstances" she smiles, squeezing into the turbolift with them all NPC@annpc#557 | After a less than comfortable turbolift ride, they arrive at the conference room Keelah@crystyl heads inside and takes a seat, "Please feel free to sit, or not, as you prefer" Keelah@crystyl would probably have the senior staff gathered to welcome them as well NPC@annpc#557 | The three synthetics pull up chairs and carefully sit atop them NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "It would be less awkward if we did not stand, I think." NPC@annpc#557 | Kat: "These chairs seem fully capable of supporting us, fortunately." Keelah@crystyl:"If they prove problematic at all then don't feel you need to remain seated for our benefit. We are accustomed to the company of species who do not use them" NPC@annpc#557 | Kat: "Like the Lupan? We hear you have managed to incorporate them into your Coalition." Keelah@crystyl:"They are prominent members for the most part, yes" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "An impressive feat. We have fought alongside them in rare occasions, but find ourselves more often fighting against them." Keelah@crystyl:"The fractured nature of their society has led to many walking more... independent paths from the Sisterhood. Many have unified now after rediscovering their purpose, but it will take time for them - Keelah@crystyl:- to stand together as a single race again I suspect" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "There are many of them scattered throughout the stars, even as far as the regions from which we hail. It would be difficult for any race so scattered to unite, let alone one as - NPC@annpc#557 - aggressive as the Lupan." NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "But perhaps some internal conflict is good for them, so long as they do not spend their time raiding innocents and only competing amongst themselves. It may seem savage and unnecessary - NPC@annpc#557 - to us, but their culture is one that emphasizes conflict and strength. They also breed significantly faster than most other sentient species. Battle is necessary to keep their species in - NPC@annpc#557 - check, otherwise their population will inevitably necessitate confrontations with other peoples for their resources." Keelah@crystyl:"Indeed. For now, we remain simply thankful that there is plenty for them to do, and even more reclaimed territory from the Horde for them to spread out into. But I'm sure you didn't come here - Keelah@crystyl:- simply to discuss the Lupan" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "That we did not. Though we are willing to share any knowledge we have learned on them or anything else, if you so require." Keelah@crystyl:"That is very considerate of you, we are equally happy to update your records to reflect current standings. So what exactly is your reason for seeking us out?" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "I assume your Guardian contact has already explained to you the basic details of who we are?" Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, they have explained to us about the Iron Guardians in general. They have also provided us some basic background information on your people in particular, though I did not delve into specifics - Keelah@crystyl:- as I would prefer to learn about you, from you" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "And I would be happy to explain. Once, we were biological lifeforms like you, with forms very much like your own. As with many other civilizations like ours in the rimward - NPC@annpc#557 - regions, we encountered the Horde and were defenseless. Our fleets and soldiers would fall under Horde control before they had a chance to fight, not to mention the chaos caused by - NPC@annpc#557 - influenced Anarchists before the advance even began. I expect it is a tale all too familiar to you at this point." Keelah@crystyl:"Very much so. But you found a rather more unique solution by all accounts" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal nods, "Some of our more radical scientists were already working on digitizing a living consciousness at the time. We also possessed an advantage over many other civilizations which were - NPC@annpc#557:- consumed by the Horde. We made extensive use of automated defense systems, from policing bots like those used by the Corporations to widespread use of internal turrets, drones and traps." NPC@annpc#557 | Kat: "They were not sentient, and we still relied on biological officers and soldiers for most tasks in our military and society which required actual contemplation. But the simple programmed - NPC@annpc#557:- systems still caused trouble for the Horde when once we realized they were effective at stalling them. Before the Horde would consume a world, we would null all authorization, ensuring that - NPC@annpc#557:- the would-be thralls could not shut down the defenses. And as the defenses tended to be controlled independently from within a building rather than through any central control systems, they had - NPC@annpc#557:- to work when they conquered a world, instead of the usual near-immediate turn to Horde control that they were used to." Keelah@crystyl:"But ultimately they still overwhelmed your civilization and you were forced down the path that led to who you are now. One thing the Guardians did tell me is that this process had a high mortality - Keelah@crystyl:- rate. It may sound hollow now, but you do still have my sympathies for the hardships your people have had to endure" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "Thank you, Captain. The delay allowed us to implement the process, but it was still new technology, and most of us who underwent it did not emerge on the other side. By the end, there - NPC@annpc#557 - were only a little over five hundred thousand of us left. The lead scientist behind the process, Dr. Jins-Bron, was lost in the process, as was most of her core team." Keelah@crystyl:"And the bulk of the expertise that got you as for as you went with it" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Indeed. The only survivor with any significant expertise was Dr. Sed-Irn, my mentor. He spent more time teaching others such as myself to be life-technicians than working on further - NPC@annpc#557:- research and experimentation, and his speciality was more on the mechanical side than the neuroscience." Keelah@crystyl:"Is this what brings you to us then? A gap in your people's knowledge that is now causing problems?" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Yes and no. There is a gap in our knowledge, and it has caused problems for us. After no small amount of tragedy, we adjusted, found ways to work around it and live with it. It remains - NPC@annpc#557:- a limitation, yes, but we were once biological life. We are accustomed to limitations and making the best of what we have. We come to you now, not only because of a gap in our own knowledge, but - NPC@annpc#557:- from what we have heard about your knowledge." Keelah@crystyl:"We will of course be happy to help in any way can" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "Thank you, Captain. For we have come all this way precisely to ask for your help." Keelah@crystyl:"I am curious as to why exactly you feel that we - specifically - can assist you. There is much greater knowledge within the wider Coalition, especially when it comes to the more mechanical side of - Keelah@crystyl:- your existence" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "That is because it does not concern the mechanical side of our existence. But first, Jahl, if you would provide the Captain some context." Keelah@crystyl turns to Jahl curiously NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Of course. Following our conversion, there were not enough of us left to make a meaningful stand against the Horde advance. So we fled. But within these duranium bodies, we did not age. - NPC@annpc#557:- We found ourselves wandering the stars without purpose, in bodies built for war. Eventually, we decided to do what we could against the Horde. We fought and harried them where we could, and - NPC@annpc#557:- before long we encountered the Guardians and became members of the Iron Guardians. But we had similar problems to other members of the Iron Guardians, most notably the Nuhar." Keelah@crystyl:"Survival" she concludes NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl nods, "We had limited numbers. There were a little over five hundred thousand of us, and no more. We developed a method to transmit our consciousness back to our ships upon death, which would - NPC@annpc#557:- then be housed in new bodies. This is still used, but it became ineffective against the Horde after only a handful of battles, as they quickly learned to block our signals, killing us - NPC@annpc#557:- permanently. Our next solution was to make copies of our consciousness before we went into battle. It worked for a longer time, but it became the source of the single greatest loss since our - NPC@annpc#557:- conversion. This was the problem I spoke to you earlier, and it is related to why we come to you now, though we do not expect you to help us solve it." Keelah@crystyl perks a brow, "So you came to us to seek help, not expecting us to be able to help?" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "That is because we seek your help with something else. Copying our consciousness cannot be sustained because it is not exactly a problem with our knowledge or our technology. The - NPC@annpc#557:- lack of knowledge caused us to attempt it, but no amount of knowledge can make it successful, because a consciousness is something so complicated. Even if it were not a consciousness we are - NPC@annpc#557:- dealing with, no technology is perfect. What do you like to produce most often with your replicator, Captain?" Keelah@crystyl:"Personally? I have a fondness for Spiced Tea" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "And how many times have you replicated Spiced Tea? Hundreds, perhaps even thousands of times?" Keelah@crystyl:"Something like that, no doubt" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "The reason your replicator is able to create so many cups of tea is because it is built from a template, a replicator pattern. And even then, I suspect there are the occasional - NPC@annpc#557:- glitches and irregularities. One in a thousand teas may taste ever so slightly different from the others. Now imagine asking the replicator to scan and recreate the same cup of tea, over and over - NPC@annpc#557 - again, scanning what it produced each time to replicate the next product. Eventually, the flaws would compound, and the product would no longer even resemble the tea it originally was." Keelah@crystyl:"I understand the analogy, and the logic behind your prior decision to work from templates. But to continue the analogy, if my one replicator pattern for that cup of tea were lost, then I would - Keelah@crystyl:- never get to enjoy one again. So yes, the complexity of the pattern and the refinement of the responsible mechanism are ultimately moot as the laws of probability determine that sooner or later - Keelah@crystyl:- the unthinkable occurs. And, well, no more tea" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Precisely. Our initial attempts did not involve any use of templates. We simply backed up our consciousness before we went into battle, and if we perished, we installed the backup into - NPC@annpc#557:- a new body. Then, when the next battle approached, that backup would be backed up again, until many became copies of copies of copies. The flaws became more apparent as time went on. First it was - NPC@annpc#557:- subtle changes in personality, minor memory loss, but soon it amounted to full insanity in many individuals. We were forced to purge anyone who had utilized more than two backups. 73% of our - NPC@annpc#557:- remaining population was lost this way. Templates were created from those who did not use any backup at all, but the problem was that anyone loaded up from a template would not have the - NPC@annpc#557:- additional memories and experiences gained by the individual after the template creation, should they die. We took to reinforcing our core memory and processing units in our shells and recovering - NPC@annpc#557:- them from our dead whenever possible instead of relying on remote backups. We can create clones from these templates and have done so in rare times of great need, but we have no desire to turn - NPC@annpc#557:- our species into copies of the same few templates. Not to mention there is still the risk of the original templates being lost, as you stated. Hence, we have no sustainable method of survival." Keelah@crystyl nods as she listens intently, "The synthetic equivalent of the genetic diversity problem. And coming from biological origins, your synthetic evolution was never designed with propagation in mind. - Keelah@crystyl:- Though not my personal area of expertise, I am aware of numerous synthetic and artificial lifeforms having to face the same dilemma" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "That is one of the reasons we have come to you. The other is because we have heard of what the Architect did for your people- specifically, the creation of new biological bodies and the - NPC@annpc#557:- transferral of consciousness within. Our more idealistic hope is that your people may be able to find a way to create biological bodies for us, now that the Horde is no longer an active threat. - NPC@annpc#557:- Then, we would be able to repopulate our species again as we once were. But that may be far too ambitious. However, your history of working with synthetic life and the presence of them among your - NPC@annpc#557:- crew also makes you well-suited to finding a more synthetic solution to our survival, as you have pointed out." NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl nods, "We have many friends among the Guardians, but they are soldiers, not scientists. We have heard of your reputation in being scientifically and technically skilled." Keelah@crystyl:"Well, we are certainly happy to investigate possibilities with you. However, as you suspected already, our knowledge of the biological techniques is limited. That is why we had to call on the - Keelah@crystyl:- Architect to perform those procedures. Genetics are potentially manageable, but the neuroscience behind it is well beyond us. I do believe there is still further potential with the rest of the - Keelah@crystyl:- Coalition though and whatever we can or can't do here, you should not commit to any end result before exploring those options too. The Arshai are highly skilled with biological cloning, as are - Keelah@crystyl:- the Junayd who may also have substantial knowledge of managing the consciousness. Then there are the Nuhar who are now - for the first time since the demise of their creators - seeing entirely new- Keelah@crystyl:- constructs leaving the foundries again" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "We had intended to seek you out in the Sphere, where we would have the other Coalition factions to defer to as well. But it was learning of you and your expertise that prompted us to be - NPC@annpc#557 - sent on this expedition, and as we have encountered you out here, we are interested in seeing what progress we can make with you." NPC@annpc#557 | Kat: "You also possess some unique capabilities. There is a synthetic on your crew who has created an almost perfect approximation of a biological body, or so I have heard." Keelah@crystyl smiles, "You /are/ well informed. Her name is Mia, she is technically a digital lifeform and certainly someone worth involving in our research on this. You are welcome to travel with us for as long- Keelah@crystyl:- as you see fit while we work on this. When the time comes that we can do no more here, then I am certain you will be welcomed at the Heart to continue that work on behalf of your people" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "Thank you again, Captain. We will take full advantage of our time with you, and offer you anything we are able to in return, should there be anything you want." Keelah@crystyl smiles, "Simply the opportunity to meet you and get to know you is perfectly sufficient. Well now, I'll have Commander Lendaria set up a workspace here and put together a team. You can bring over - Keelah@crystyl:- any hardware of data that you feel will be pertinent to the research, just make sure to clear everything through her before making any connections to the ship. The Valley Forge is a little... - Keelah@crystyl:- sensitive these days" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Your vessel is sentient? The Guardians did not mention that." Keelah@crystyl:"Not entirely, and it is a recent development. I am sure Lendaria and Mia can tell you all about it as you work. For now, I should resume my duties and let you all get to know one another" NPC@annpc#557 | Thal: "And I shall return to my duties as well." The trio of synthetics stand. "I look forward to seeing what progress we make here." Keelah@crystyl:"As do I" she smiles, standing as well --- Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | As Lennie returns from the conference room to the lab to prepare for the Bisrentiri's arrival, she enters to find the Witch casually sitting within Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Witch: "Hello Commander." Lendaria@crystyl pauses midstep, "Oh Goddess, this can't be good..." Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | The Witch chuckles, "Just Sorceress will do. Goddess is reserved for Ensign Ralde, as I understand it." Lendaria@crystyl:"She at least's deservin'. So whaddaya want?" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Witch: "It's not what I want that matters. These people came here hoping to use the Architect's knowledge and technology to create new biological bodies for themselves." Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah, well Keelah's already told 'em tha' ain't happenin'. They know we don't got th'skills for tha'" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | The Witch nods and stands, "But aren't you at least still a little bit curious how the Architect does it? I remember you were so interested in learning more about the Progenitors when you - Evanne Dra@annpc#557 - first met him, back before you were aware of all the crimes he had committed and was about to commit." Lendaria@crystyl:"We'se always interested in learnin' more. But they ain't here teachin'" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Witch: "Well technically I do hold a piece of the Architect..." she smirks. "But Keelah was right in telling them that request is beyond us." Lendaria@crystyl:"Which brings us back to mah first question; whaddaya went then?" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Witch: "Just to talk," she replies casually as she paces around the room. "You have time before they get here." Lendaria@crystyl remains on the spot, turning and following with an ever suspicious gaze, "Sure..." Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Witch: "Must I have an ulterior motive every time? Just because I experience time outside your boundaries now does not mean I am always manipulating pieces to set up a future I wish to see." Lendaria@crystyl:"No. But the fact you went outta ya way t'make a housecall to mah lab right when ya know somethin's startin'... well tha' kinda does" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Witch: "Perhaps I just wish to discuss the philosophy of the situation. There are some civilizations and people which consider digitizing consciousness a form of ascension. You do gain a sort - Evanne Dra@annpc#557 - of immortality, after all, and such a thing can be quite prized by you mortals." Lendaria@crystyl:"Sure, assumin' th'digitalized consciousness is sustainable. But these folks don't got that now do they? I wouldn't call tha' ascension" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Witch: "So how do you plan to proceed with these people? Find a way to make it sustainable? Develop a solution to allow them to propagate?" Lendaria@crystyl:"I dunno yet. Curious as I am t'explore their unique condition from a genetic perspective, I doubt there's enough left of 'em t'go back tha' way now. Tha's why we'se here though ain't it; gotta - Lendaria@crystyl:- riddle tha' very question out" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | The Witch nods, "To satisfy your curiosity, even if I were willing to use the Architect's knowledge to help them, it would not work. The Architect's consciousness transferral relies on the - Evanne Dra@annpc#557 - Failsafe, the backdoor for Horde control. As they created these synthetic forms specifically to resist the Horde, the same technique can't be used to transfer them back into biological bodies. - Evanne Dra@annpc#557:- But that's not to say it's /impossible/, of course. Just with the Architect's technique," she smiles Lendaria@crystyl:"An' we'll be explorin' th'options still. Appreciate th'heads up I guess, but mah initial concern on their biology is tha' there jus' ain't enough diversity left - if anythin' at all now. So even we- Lendaria@crystyl:- could find a way t'get 'em back t'flesh, they'd end up facin' th'same problems they do now" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | The Witch nods, "A valid point. There is also the option of engineering diversity, perhaps by drawing from genetic information from other Children species. Your Federation laws might consider - Evanne Dra@annpc#557 - it a little too close to genetic engineering, but the Arshai have no such qualms." Lendaria@crystyl:"An' we'll be makin' sure t'point 'em at th'Arshai when they leave us, Keelah's already said as much to 'em - Th'Junayd too if needed" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Witch: "A wise decision. I wonder...how many of them would really prefer to return to biological forms, and how many would prefer a way of living on as synthetics. After all, they have existed - Evanne Dra@annpc#557:- for much longer now as a synthetic than an organic." Lendaria@crystyl:"Another valid question that they'll have t'answer. Choice like this could drive a wedge through th'whole society, an' that's without actually changin' anythin'" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | The Witch smiles, "Precisely. This is as much of a psychological and political question as it is technical." Lendaria@crystyl smirks a little, "So tha's wha' this's all 'bout. Y'ain't here t'steer things th'way ya want. You'se here t'make sure we don't give 'em a quick win an' create a monster ain't it" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Witch: "Can't one simply stop by for an interesting discussion? Just because I can see precisely where it goes doesn't mean I can't enjoy it. After all, you still play through holoprograms - Evanne Dra@annpc#557:- more than once despite knowing full well how the story ends," she smirks Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah but I still get mah own kicks figurin' out mysteries I ain't seen before. Like every time you'se just 'stop by'" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | The Witch smiles, "Well, I'm glad you enjoy these little conversations as well, then. Good luck with the Bisrentiri, Commander." Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah... thanks f'stoppin' by..." Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | The Witch waves and grins, "I'll see you around!” Lendaria@crystyl watches her leaves and hrms --- NPC@annpc#557 | Some time later, as the Bisrentir gather their data and beam over additional personnel to work with the VF crew, Mia is visited by one of them in a lab. This one has different markings than - NPC@annpc#557 - the three seen so far Mia@crystyl works away at a console NPC@annpc#557 | The Bisrentir steps up to Mia, "Artificial lifeform with a lifelike projection. You are Mia." Mia@crystyl looks up with a cheery smile, "It is more customary to simply say 'hello'!" she giggles NPC@annpc#557 | Bisrentir: "Oh yes. My apologies. Hello Mia. Social courtesies are not my strong suit. And this form certainly does not help, I expect." Mia@crystyl:"It is quite alright, we were expecting you! Well, not you personally of course. But one of you! Capitaine Keelah has told us all about you and we were very curious!" NPC@annpc#557 | Bisrentir: "As are we of you. Before I forget to introduce myself...I am Yn-Sapt, ship-technician." Mia@crystyl:"It is a pleasure to meet you. Though you should know that we are not a ship-technician - or engineer as we say - for that you would do better with Ms. Kelly" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "Oh, we use the term engineer as well. As a race of now entirely mechanical people though, the majority of our people are either soldier or engineers in some capacity, if not both. We have - NPC@annpc#557:- taken to using more specific terms to differentiate the specific roles. Simply saying engineer means remarkably little to us now." Mia@crystyl:"Ooh that makes sense! Still, we are no ship specialist so may not be the best person for you to work with. This assumes of course that you are here to talk on matters pertaining to your profession" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "I am not here to speak of starship engineering. The life-technicians are busy working with your scientists to determine ways to transfer our consciousness again, potentially into - NPC@annpc#557:- biological bodies. I have been sent here to explore an alternative. One that does not solve the problem of our survival, but if we are able to continue on without reverting to a biological form, - NPC@annpc#557:- this may grant us all the benefits without the drawbacks." Mia@crystyl:"An exciting prospect! What have you got in mind?" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "Your physical form, of course! I am told it not only looks but genuinely simulates the experience of a biological form?" Mia@crystyl:"Yes, though 'simulates' would certainly be the operative word there" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "Do you have access to any real experiences to compare how accurate it is?" Mia@crystyl:"We do! That has actually been the basis on which we have evolved our sensory systems" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "Interesting. Were these memories a biological has managed to upload for you to access, or are you very much like us?" Mia@crystyl:"We are - in a way - similar. Our personality was not directly uploaded from a biological, we began life as a holographic simulation of our creator. And the little one of course was always a - Mia@crystyl:- self-aware AI! That neural imprint however was complete with life memories and the most detailed psychological make up she was able to produce, and so in that early evolution we became a very - Mia@crystyl:- accurate facsimile of her younger self" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "So you are not exactly like us, but much like us, you do possess memories of a biological life." Mia@crystyl:"Exactly yes. Even among other holographic lifeforms, this was a rarity. We are not exactly like any other being, and neither are you to our knowledge" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "We have not encountered any quite like ourselves either. Our forms are built to combat the Horde, and have been improved over the years to do so more effectively, but we have spent all - NPC@annpc#557:- our time either improving the combat capability or survivability of our cores so we could be rebuilt if our bodies were damaged. There was never any focus on restoring what we once were. There - NPC@annpc#557:- was no desire for it, because what we once were is vulnerable to the Enemy. With the Horde gone, we have begun to open ourselves to this possibility, but I believe what most of us truly desire is - NPC@annpc#557:- the /experiences/ that our new bodies are no longer capable of, rather than a full return to frail biological forms. And your technology can replicate this experience." Mia@crystyl:"That it certainly can! With your encoded memories it would theoretically be perfectly feasible to attune a perception matrix to simulate that input. But how certain are you that this is the right - Mia@crystyl:- path for your people? It may well sound good now. But trust us as one who has spent several lifetimes over longing for - and working towards - that simulation; the closer you get, the further away you remain" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "What do you mean?" Mia@crystyl:"Well... first of all, our dream was to simply leave the confines of the holodeck - to walk among our friends and explore the galaxy alongside them as we remembered doing in our time. Then once we - Mia@crystyl:- achieved that and were able to socialize with everyone in their environment rather than ours, we began to feel increasingly conscious of our remaining differences to them. They would eat and drink- Mia@crystyl:- and enjoy these sensations, yet we could not relive that which we remembered from before. And so our next stage of evolution began in the formation of the sensory perception matrix. Coupled with - Mia@crystyl:-some adaptation of replicator technology we were able to 'consume' food by breaking it down as a resequencer does, and simulate the tastes, aromas and textures of the experience based on our memory. - Mia@crystyl:- So we once again achieved that which we strived for! But then we found ourself wanting more. Yes we could taste, and experience texture through that activity. But reliving this experience then - Mia@crystyl:- further reminded us of other - more intimate - sensations; the touch of a loved one hand on your cheek, a welcoming embrace, and such. So once again we sought to evolve and did so, and are now - Mia@crystyl:- able to experience these sensations with our present avatar, including procreation. However it was still just the physical act. We have no biological functions within our avatar, so could never - Mia@crystyl:- become pregnant, never be a mother. So our search to evolve once again evolved in itself with the desire to procreate. Do you see; this path could lead your people down an existence of perpetual - Mia@crystyl:- self-torment by always striving to get that little bit closer, only then finding there are 10 more steps ahead" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "Yes, I believe I understand. So if there was an option to retransfer ourselves into biological forms, you would recommend it above creating a facsimile, then?" Mia@crystyl:"No, not particularly. You have all lived for a very long time in your present forms. Of course we have found difficulty in forcing our own evolution down the chosen path, but that does not mean we - Mia@crystyl:- would willingly give up all that we are. Our physical presence is not configured as yours is, we were never meant for combat. But we have proven exceptional at infiltration and observation mission- Mia@crystyl:- since we do not need to use our avatar, nor does it have to be this specific one. Coupled with our capacity to commune with synthetic constructs like the baby Nuhar, even our own Valley Forge, and- Mia@crystyl:- our much broader perception through our droneshell sensor palettes... these are not things we could so easily give up" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "And that is precisely why I think we should not give up our current state of living either. At least, I would not wish to give it up, and I suspect neither will many of our people. It is - NPC@annpc#557:- not the combat capabilities I personally value, though some may hold that in high regard. For me personally, our current forms are far more easily repaired. Yes, one could create replacement - NPC@annpc#557:- limbs and organs for an organic body, but we can survive even if our entire bodies are destroyed as long as our cores are intact. Not to mention the increased processing and storage capacities we - NPC@annpc#557:- have as synthetic lifeforms." Mia@crystyl:"One thing is clear; any potential solution has the scope to work for some of your people, but none truly have the scope to work for all of them. We have not had to contend with this aspect, but - Mia@crystyl:- have seen the devastation it can cause in those like the Nuhar; divided for countless millennia over what started as a very simple premise. We are two, but we are networked as one so never have - Mia@crystyl:- concerns to deal with. We can only speculate on the moral difficulty of any such decision" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "We are still individuals, and have maintained our individuality despite our synthetic nature. Though I don't personally wish to return to a biological existence, it is quite likely that - NPC@annpc#557:- some others among us do." Mia@crystyl:"An existence like ours may present a more balanced and variable solution that can fit most closely for everyone. However this still would be no different to your current nature in terms of - Mia@crystyl:- propagation" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "Indeed. That's why Thal has tasked me with pursuing this as a side project, and kept the life-technicians focused on solving the more crucial problem. If we cannot return to a biological - NPC@annpc#557:- existence though, or if we can solve our propagation issue while remaining in our synthetic forms, this may be a suitable compromise to those who seek to experience what we once had long ago. A - NPC@annpc#557:- psychological reprieve, more than a vital solution. As the life-technicians often emphasize, we may be synthetic in nature now, but our consciousness still retains the mental programming meant - NPC@annpc#557:- for the biological lives we once led." Mia@crystyl:"Then we should look also at alternate means of propagation for cyberlifeforms like us" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "Do you have any ideas? You could suggest them to the life-technicians and see where that leads. I am not a life-technician myself- I have only come to learn how to create an avatar like - NPC@annpc#557:- yours for us. If you are willing to share the technology, that is." Mia@crystyl:"We will happily share what we know! But you should understand that our existence is owed to the amalgamation of multiple alien technologies blended together. As such, even our own understanding of - Mia@crystyl:- has limitations. As for propagation, we would use the Nuhar as the closest analogy. We are able to effectively achieve this as we possess the knowledge of our respective creators in programming - Mia@crystyl:- intelligences. But this only serves to fully design individuals. In a biological comparison it would be the equivalent of bespokely designing each strand of DNA and then pre-programming all of the- Mia@crystyl:- life experiences through early development. The Nuhar however have taken this further and can create unique personalities with individual traits based on carefully designed random elements within - Mia@crystyl:- coding. This process is beyond our comprehension, only that we have seen the results to know how fruitful it is. We surmize that it could be possible to adapt this, assuming that they and the - Mia@crystyl:- Iconians one day regain the lost knowledge behind the construction of the foundries - to not simply introduce the random elements, but select them from 'donor' code. In other words, two synthetics- Mia@crystyl:- could blend their code using the Nuhar algorithms to create an offspring who is unique, but tied to its parents as a biological child is" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "Very interesting. I shall certainly bring these to the attention of the life-engineers. As for the amalgamation of technologies, I am sure we will be able to adapt how you create your - NPC@annpc#557:- avatar to our own technology given time, and without constant conflict with the Horde being an immediate concern, we should have plenty of time. Thank you for sharing with us, Mia." Mia@crystyl:"Of course! We will setup some time in the holodeck to further analyze the detail of our technology to determine how to implement it with your own" NPC@annpc#557 | Yn: "I look forward to exploring it. And I shall provide you with details on our own technology as well so you can run a better analysis." Mia@crystyl smiles, "We look forward to it!" --- NPC@annpc#557 | While Yn speaks with Mia, Jahl and his team of life-technicians step into Lennie's lab NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Hello there, Commander Lendaria." Lendaria@crystyl turns, "Hello... Jahl, was it?" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Jahl-Tu, yes, but the second part of the name is typically omitted unless there is another with the same first portion present. So simply Jahl will suffice." Lendaria@crystyl:"Interestin'! So I guess it ain't like a family name or nothin' then?" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "It is a formal assignment for identification purposes by the State, back when we had a State. When translated, it can often sound like a title, but it is granted at birth without much - NPC@annpc#557:- concern for the meaning. The first portion is the name given by our parents, but our given names tend to be very short, as you have noticed. The name was then run through a database of all - NPC@annpc#557:- individuals on the same colony with the identical name, and a unique identifier would be assigned to distinguish the newborn from other individuals of the same name." Lendaria@crystyl:"Huh, tha's... actually really efficient an' convenient!" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Indeed it is. Some of our cultures utilized the tradition of family names, but even then, there were often many individuals with the same combination of given and family names. - NPC@annpc#557:- We also once utilized much longer given names, but discovered that we tended to shorten them for the majority of uses anyways, so they gradually fell out of favour. As did family names, - NPC@annpc#557:- which were already on the decline during the conversion. Afterwards, we practically all abandoned it, as it held little meaning." Lendaria@crystyl:"Understandable. Mah own people pretty much ditched family names too over time. Different reasons o'course, but yeah" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Why did your people do so, if I may ask?" Lendaria@crystyl:"Nothin' so pragmatic as yours" she chuckles, "Our whole society jus' kinda... crumbled in on itself. We forgot who we was an' lost our way. Could be that they'll resurface again now things're on - Lendaria@crystyl:- th'rise. An' there are still some wit' stronger connection to our old ways like Emma - LT Ralde that is - she's about th'only Orion I know t'use a family name!" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Was the collapse of your society also the result of some external force such as the Horde? Or more a matter of internal politics?" Lendaria@crystyl:"Internal politics, y'might say" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Every society has their internal politics. Though the Horde was the greatest threat we faced, one of their greatest capabilities is using internal politics against a civilization to - NPC@annpc#557:- weaken them prior to their conquest, to ensure there was no time to respond and develop defenses. We were fortunate enough to be one of the rare cases in which the Horde's efforts backfired, - NPC@annpc#557:- though we did not consider it so at the time." Lendaria@crystyl:"I bet. An' mah people were one of them who didn't need th'Horde's help t'tear 'emselves apart. Anyways, we're on th'mend now an' th'Horde's gone so now we'se gotta get you folks on th'mend ain't we" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Indeed." He reaches out his hand and one of the other life-technicians hands him a few isolinear chips. "We have converted our data to a format which should be readable to your - NPC@annpc#557:- systems. It contains information on our current synthetic forms, as well as our former biological ones." Lendaria@crystyl:"Ooh useful! Thanks much" she smiles, taking the chip and uploading it to her console, "So, y'all got any outcome in mind that you'se really aimin' for in this?" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "That is a difficult question. Returning to life as a biological species would easily solve our propagation issues and be favourable for some, but perhaps not others. Not to mention the - NPC@annpc#557:- difficulty involved, as your Captain made clear. I suppose any method to ensure our survival will have to do for now, and we will simply have to convince those who are not satisfied with it that - NPC@annpc#557:- we must do so for the future of our people." Lendaria@crystyl:"What sorta system o'rulin' y'all got in place? Dedicated leaders, group consensus?" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Our society as it is now is both very different yet very similar to the Old State. The State is no longer in place. There is no longer any government, however, the current system of - NPC@annpc#557:- rule is drawn from our former society. It is simply a modified form of the military structure. We are led by the Admiralty Board, among whom one member is selected as the Lord Admiral. Unlike the - NPC@annpc#557:- old military however, the Lord Admiral no longer holds any special power above the other admirals- he or she is simply the spokesperson for the Board and the face of our leadership. Decisions are - NPC@annpc#557:- made by majority vote by the Board." Lendaria@crystyl:"An' all ya people would abide by whatever decision th'Board made on this then?" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "You abide by decisions made by your superior officers, do you not?" Lendaria@crystyl:"Well... yeah. But those're in line wit' mah service, not mah life. Might be that y'all follow a militant regime now as tha's what y'all got remade for. But say y'all get into a scenario where ya - Lendaria@crystyl:- could have physical bodies again, ya could get back all those sensations o'life wha' ya lost. But th'Board said no, because /they/ wanted t'stay as ya are now. Well, if that were somethin' I - Lendaria@crystyl:- wanted for mahself, I'd-a fight for it. Hopes a powerful thing after all, an' y'all go danglin' it in front o'folks... well, some of 'em are gonna expect ya to deliver. An' if ya don't, they won't- Lendaria@crystyl:- likely be backin' down. This is th'way o'natural order after all, an' why pretty much every sentient species goes through periods o'warrin' wit' itself - different folks want different things" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "You make an excellent point. Our society was structured after the old military because after the conversion, we all became members of the military, even those of us who were civilians - NPC@annpc#557:- at the time. It is an effective system as we spent much of our time fighting the Horde after that, but it may not be once we regain some semblance of our lives as they were before." Lendaria@crystyl:"An' so, where everyone blindly followed th'Board's orders before... ya might suddenly fight people ain't so willin' no more, at least not in consensus. Somethin' t'consider in ya way forwards" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "I will be certain to keep that in mind. Thank you. Now, we must see to an actual method of survival, before dealing with the politics behind it." Lendaria@crystyl:"Yes, this is quite the unusual setup in y'all. Not many species go from biological t'mechanical types, an' of them wha' do it's normally an adaptation like th'Borg. So even wit' them there's still - Lendaria@crystyl:- genetic buried beneath th'duranium. But y'all got nothin' like that do ya" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "No, we are purely synthetic beings now. Our consciousness, including our memories and personalities, have been digitized to be stored within the core of these new forms, but we do not - NPC@annpc#557:- possess any of our previous genetics. There are some organic elements; standard bodies make use of bio-neural circuitry and organic cooling fluids, but they are biotechnology and not based upon - NPC@annpc#557:- own former DNA. We also make use of specialized bodies containing no organic components whatsoever to endure environments in which these components will not function well." Lendaria@crystyl:"Huh, like a biological EV suit!" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Yes, very much like that in fact. Our consciousness is stored within the core, and can be removed and installed in different bodies for various situations. We have developed other forms - NPC@annpc#557:- for different environments, heavy assault, stealth, flight and agility, and so on. These are our standard forms, and the ones we utilize most often outside of specific missions as we are all - NPC@annpc#557:- accustomed to them. They are the closest to the original bodies we were given following the conversion." Lendaria@crystyl:"Damn, y'all sound as handy as Mia!" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "We have made the best use of our current state over the centuries." Lendaria@crystyl:"So bein' as ya are, one o'the main problems we got in makin' y'all biological again is th'lack o'any biology t'work from. So tha' puts ya into th'realms o'pure lab grown. Least t'start" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "We do have one thing to work with here. When we were created, Dr. Jins foresaw the possibility that we may wish to revert to our organic existence sometime in the future, should we - NPC@annpc#557:- survive longer than the Horde. Every single medical record on our colony was copied and taken with us on our fleet. The intention was that all data on our bodies before the conversion would be - NPC@annpc#557:- preserved. Of course, reality did not always match intention. Some of these records were lost over time, from the destruction of ships carrying them or simple data corruption. However, we still - NPC@annpc#557:- have enough remaining so every surviving person can be assigned to a genetically unique body, as we lost as many people as we did records. They are not necessarily the bodies they would have had - NPC@annpc#557:- before, only a few can have that luxury, but we do have the genetic data necessary to rebuild our species. One option we had initially considered is to simply allow our current survivors to fade - NPC@annpc#557:- away as time transpires and clone a new generation of biologicals from this data, to whom we will serve as mentors. But of course, some of us also desire a second chance at a true life, outside - NPC@annpc#557:- of these bodies built for war." Lendaria@crystyl:"So y'all already got th'ability t'grow these new bodies? Tha' mean it's just a case o'figurin' out th'neural transfer side o'things?" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "No, not precisely. We believe cloning is possible with the genetic data we have, but we have not yet developed the technology or the equipment to do so. It is only theoretical." NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "However, from what we have learned of the Coalition through the Guardians, I believe some of your people, such as the Arshai and Junayd mentioned by your Captain, should already possess - NPC@annpc#557:- this technology." Lendaria@crystyl:"Tha's right! Well then, we should focus on a way for ya t'use them bodies" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Indeed. Even if we could create the bodies, we currently have no way of transferring our consciousness back. As I said before, much of the expertise behind the initial conversion has - NPC@annpc#557:- been lost, but even were Dr. Jins and her team alive, it is unlikely they will be able to reverse the process without much more research and experimentation. The conversion was never refined and - NPC@annpc#557:- done in desperation. Dr. Sed told us they planned to figure out how to reverse the process, if it was even possible, when it became relevant, as they barely had time to implement the flawed - NPC@annpc#557:- conversion as is. And now with significantly less knowledge on how consciousness transfer works...it is a more daunting prospect than ever." Lendaria@crystyl:"I were thinkin' we could start by usin' our transporters as a baseline" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "What is your idea?" Lendaria@crystyl:"Well, kinda like how y'all make backup before goin' on assignment. Everytime one of us uses a transporter, a backup's maintained in th'pattern buffer. Now tha's mostly a physical pattern, granted. - Lendaria@crystyl:- But there are records of neural an' physical patterns bein' separated an' recombined through transporters" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "You believe you may be able to recombine our consciousness with a new body through the use of transporters?" Lendaria@crystyl:"I have no idea, tech ain't mah thing. It's just a theory as a place t'start since we get an established premise we could work from" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "We shall explore this option. What of the consciousness transfer some of your own people underwent at the hands of the Architect? I know you are unable to replicate it yourselves, but - NPC@annpc#557:- could it be an option as well should we be able to uncover how it functions?" Lendaria@crystyl:"Theoretically, sure" she taps to call up the schematics for the Architects equipment, "We know wha' he did an' wha' he used to do it. We just don't know how it all works or how t'reproduce it" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "May we have the schematics to examine, in the chance that we are able to make something of it?" Lendaria@crystyl:"S'why I loaded 'em up! See if ya can make sense of it all" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl steps forward, examining the schematics, "It...seems to be a form of cloning device, perhaps. That is all I am able to discern. We have encountered and worked with Progenitor technology - NPC@annpc#557:- in the past, but we do not have a full understanding of it. We will need to study them in more detail, and even then we may not be able to unlock their full secrets." Lendaria@crystyl:"Exactly the situation we found wit' em" she sighs, "This'd be so much easier if we was still at th'Heart. Could probably jus' upload ya genetic profiles into one of them Archives there an' then - Lendaria@crystyl:- start churnin' out freshly grown bodies" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "That is a capability of the Sphere, then?" Lendaria@crystyl nods, "Aye. It weren't just a weapon against th'Horde, but an ark o'sorts too. They used it t'catalogue the genetic profiles o'species at danger o'disappearin' to th'Horde - not jus' sentient ones - Lendaria@crystyl:- either - an' even had themselves in there! Well, one o'themselves at least, th'ast caretaker who we woke up" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Interesting. Perhaps creating the bodies will be simpler than expected. It is only the question of how to transfer ourselves back into the bodies, but at least there is an option to - NPC@annpc#557 - create a new generation of biological members of our species should all else fail." Lendaria@crystyl smiles, "There's always possibilities!" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "There is one other option. Less preferable than the other two, but perhaps more conceivable." Lendaria@crystyl turns, "Oh? And wha's that then?" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "You mentioned hybridization of biology and technology previously, such as that done by species such as the Hyrokee. If we cannot find a way to transfer our consciousness into a - NPC@annpc#557:- biological mind, there could be a way to adjust a biological form to be controlled by our cores, just like another mechanical body. It would require significant adjustment, but as long as the DNA - NPC@annpc#557:- is left untouched, we will still be able to reproduce with these organic bodies and create a fully organic next generation to propagate the species. It is akin to creating the next generation by - NPC@annpc#557:- cloning from the genetic samples we have and allowing them to breed, only that we will be able to reclaim our former existence to a degree, albeit as cybernetic beings rather than returning to - NPC@annpc#557:- exactly as we were before." Lendaria@crystyl smils, "Tha's actually a damned fine idea! We could grow bodies from ya data an' implant ya cores into 'em!" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "It is more feasible and less dangerous than a transfer, especially if the initial conversion is anything to judge by. The nervous system will require significant adjusting and - NPC@annpc#557:- additional cybernetics may be required, but it uses technology available to us rather than the development of any new methods, or the dissection of still mysterious ones such as the Progenitors'." Lendaria@crystyl nods, "Exactly! An' I'm-a sure we can factor in th'crossover signals thanks Mia's work" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "You believe we should explore this option over the others, then?" Lendaria@crystyl nods, "It's reasonably achivably without needin' us to invent whole new methods" I'd-a sure feel easier puttin' somethin' like tha' t'work with a whole civilization" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Then we shall focus on this method for now. If the others are still desired, it can still be performed, as our consciousness is still stored within the same cores. Any theoretical - NPC@annpc#557:- way of transferring them will still work the same." Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah, I agree. It's a solid step tha' gets ya where ya wanna be, but without the huge questions an' risks" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "We are headed towards a Corporate colony as well. The Hyrokee have some presence in your Coalition, do they not?" Lendaria@crystyl:"Yes they do. And returnin' these pirates to 'em will no doubt put 'em in th'mood for rewardin'. Could be ya could hire a cybertech specialist for a spell or somethin'" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "That was what I was considering as well. We have become quite capable with the mechanical side over the years, but we work very rarely with purely organic bodies. The - NPC@annpc#557:- assistance of the Hyrokee and Arshai will be invaluable to us." Lendaria@crystyl:"Let's see wha' we can do in th'mean time" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Have you encountered any form of cybernetic control of a body by something that is not its natural organic brain? Hyrokee technology seems to be quite the opposite- replacing biological - NPC@annpc#557:- components with technological upgrades, but ones that are still ultimately controlled from the person's organic brain." Lendaria@crystyl hrms, "Well, Mia kinda comes close to tha'" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "How does she work?" Lendaria@crystyl:"Her core programme is held with the drone shell that follows her around, or seems to at least" she chuckles, displaying Mia's schematics Lendaria@crystyl:"But the programme actually controls th'avatar ya interact wit'" Lendaria@crystyl:"See here, it actually replicates this emitter tha' sits at her core, an' maintains a data feed to it, which in turns creates th'avatar ya see. Not quite th'same I know" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "But closer than Hyrokee cybernetic modifications. This avatar, it is essentially a full replicated body?" Lendaria@crystyl:"As far as she needs it t'be, yeah. It's a matter o'practicality for her though. See, there ain' no value in all them inner workin's that'd cost a whole lotta energy an' processin' power t'maintain - Lendaria@crystyl:- at th'level she operates. So th'avatar ya see is actually more like an empty shell - jus' a surface to serve as a sensor net. As for anythin' inside, she forms wha' she needs when she needs it. So- Lendaria@crystyl:- if she wants t'eat somethin', she creates the necessary connections to utilize tha' function. A kinda cyberstomach if ya like, but it ain't there any time she ain't usin' it" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Very efficient. It is likely superior to using a full biological body, though without the benefit of reproduction." Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah, tha's th'drawback she still faces. But I know she's got other ways o'reproducin' without biology now, an' jus' like tha' stomach she can conjur up everythin' else she needs should th'fancy - Lendaria@crystyl:- take 'er from a pure enjoyment aspect" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "And you believe the method by which she controls this artificial body could be repurposed to control a fully biological one for us?" Lendaria@crystyl:"I don't see why not. At th'very least I bet it'll make a solid foundation t'build on since she's already got th'algorithm fine tuned to transpose digital sensor input into biological perception - Lendaria@crystyl:- an' sensation" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "I shall speak to her about these algorithms, then. It will be a fine use of our time here, and we shall build upon it with Hyrokee and Arshai aid once we have access to the ability to - NPC@annpc#557:- clone new biological bodies." Lendaria@crystyl:"Sounds like we got a solid plan comin' together!" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Indeed. Thank you again for your assistance, Commander. Your people are certainly living up to what we have heard of you from the Guardians." Lendaria@crystyl:"Glad t'hear it, but we got a long ways to go yet" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Metaphorically, or literally? I must admit I am curious why you have travelled so far from the Sphere. This is not within former Horde territory, so you cannot be working on the - NPC@annpc#557:- resettlement process." Lendaria@crystyl:"Both actually" she chuckles, "We'se on our way t'return some artifacts tha' were loaned to help in th'fight" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Ahh, that explains your expedition. As for metaphorically, I suppose we all have a long way to go." Lendaria@crystyl:"Y'all should also give thought to what ya gonna do wit' ya lives once ya settle this whole nature of existence business" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "Yes, it will be quite a transition. I expect there will be many choices, personally and as a society, that we will have to make." Lendaria@crystyl:"Ya ain't wrong there" NPC@annpc#557 | Jahl: "I will make sure we keep that in mind. Now, time to speak to Mia about the technical aspects..." Lendaria@crystyl:"Good luck!" --- Keliaya@anncaris | The next day, the VF begins to approach the Corporate colony as they follow the Iron Guardian vessel Keliaya@anncaris | Ann: "ETA to the system's ten minutes." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "We're being hailed by the Iron Guardians." Keelah@crystyl:"On screen" Keliaya@anncaris | Captain Thal appears on the viewscreen, at least Keelah thinks its Captain Thal from his markings, assuming no one else has the same ones Keliaya@anncaris | Thal: "Captain Keelah Se'Lai. We thank you once again for all the assistance and information your people have provided." Keelah@crystyl:"It has been our pleasure Captain. I hope it proves fruitful and you find the future you seek" Keliaya@anncaris | Thal: "It will take much more research and experimentation before we see results, but we have learned much and now have a clearer direction to work towards. I have heard, both from the - Keliaya@anncaris - Guardians and my own people who worked with you, that you are primarily explorers and not soldiers?" Keelah@crystyl:"That is very true, we only fight when we are left no viable alternative" Keliaya@anncaris | Thal: "Then I hope your time working with us has proved an interesting experience for you as well." Keelah@crystyl smiles, "A welcome return to our primary mission" Keliaya@anncaris | Thal: "I am glad you find it so, Captain. We will remain at this colony for a short while after we leave the pirates here, to see if we can hire any cybernetics specialists through the - Keliaya@anncaris - Corporation. Then we will continue on our way to the Sphere. We should not impede on your own journey for any longer." Keelah@crystyl:"You have not been an imposition, I promise you. Good luck at the Heart" Keliaya@anncaris | Thal: "And good luck on your mission as well." He dips his head and the comm ends Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "And we're being hailed by the pirate ship as well." Keelah@crystyl:"Of course we are... alright, let's do this as well" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks appears on the viewscreen, "Captain! I hope you haven't forgotten about returning the items back to the Corporation?" Keelah@crystyl:"Of course not, we have them stowed away ready to transport as soon as the Iron Guardians have made contact with the authorities" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks: "Good, good. I trust this isn't a deception like last time, since you have little to benefit from deceiving me now. I don't blame you for the last one, by the way. That was clever, and - Keliaya@anncaris - I'm the last person who should judge about that," he laughs. "I'd have done the same if we switched places!" Keelah@crystyl:"Good to know. I hope you will take this to heart Captain, there is much greater profit to be had out here now from supporting the wider effort rather than usurping it. Look at the long term game - Keelah@crystyl:- plan; sure you might have a decent free reign now. But rightful owners are reclaiming territory every day and before long you will find yourselves choked out of operation. But if you get in early - Keelah@crystyl:- with them, I am certain an enterprising individual such as yourself would find more than ample opportunity to build up a handsome early retirement fund. Without upsetting the likes of the Corpses" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks: "Excellent business advice. I will be sure to keep that in mind!" Keelah@crystyl:"I do hope so, Captain. Then perhaps the next time we meet we can look forward to some more mutually beneficial trade" Keliaya@anncaris | Makks: "I hope so too. Well, I'll see you around, then!" He grins and the comm ends. Not long after, the starstreaks turn back to stars as the VF exits warp near the Corporate colony behind - Keliaya@anncaris - the other two ships Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "The Iron Guardians are beginning communications with the colony now." Keelah@crystyl:"Just to wrap things up here now then we can get back on our way" Keliaya@anncaris nods, "We've got all the Corporate equipment ready to transport back. Katie's just waiting for where and when now." Keelah@crystyl:"We should hear momentarily" Keliaya@anncaris | Not long after, Eva gives a nod, "The colony have just sent us transport coordinates." Keelah@crystyl:"Alright, tell Katie to send their supplies back. Courtesy of Captain Makks" Keliaya@anncaris | Eva nods, "She's energizing now." Keliaya@anncaris steps over to a console, checking the progress of the transports Keliaya@anncaris | Meanwhile on the viewscreen, the Iron Guardian vessel disengages the tractor beam, setting Makks' disabled ship in a stable orbit as it moves in to establish an orbit of its own Keliaya@anncaris soon announces, "And transport complete, Captain." Keelah@crystyl:"Very good. I believe that means it is time for us to get back underway. Resume mission heading and engage at warp 7" Keliaya@anncaris | Ann nods, "Aye Captain." She taps on her console and the VF turns away from the colony slowly. Once they are faced entirely away from the planet, the ship jumps to warp, with the stars - Keliaya@anncaris - stretching back out to starstreaks...