ST:TTV313 | "Ace Up Your Sleeve"

Stardate 95070

The Valley Forge moves to investigate a strange supernova...

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Sulayman@drcrippler enters the bridge and makes his way into the centre. He has white shoulders now! Alistair Nimitz@natthaan glances over at Sula "Nice to see that you got the stains out." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Not that green didn't look good on you." Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois an open channel request comes from the USS Attar Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ is standing at her helm console, things seem to be normal. Sulayman@drcrippler shakes his head. "The stains were easy. Just don't touch me, you're hand will get stuck to my uniform. The sap won't go away..." Keelah@crystyll looks between the pair with a quirked brow, "I daren't ask..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "He got eaten by a plant.." Keliaya@anncarise glances behind her as she works the bridge engineering console, "You could always replicate another uniform..." Sulayman@drcrippler FX| The Akagi, VF, and the Attar have all met up with the al-Haytham. They are all at a safe distance from a supernova Keelah@crystyll glances to Sula, opening her mouth to comment but refraining and simply closing it again and looking forward Keliaya@anncarise: "Mine get dirty all the time, and I recycle them quite frequently." Sulayman@drcrippler: "I just got used to this one..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan seems to be having way too much fun at Sula's expense. Sulayman@drcrippler: "Yes," he says curtly. "It seems like I am not liked by flora, or fauna..." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ takes a sip out of her largeish Academy coffee mug. She glances down at her console. "We're at the proper distance from the Supernova, captain. And...uh. I've got a hail from...Timo?" Keliaya@anncarise: "Let's hope stars like you a little more..." Keelah@crystyll: "Patch him through, I think it's about time we get to the purpose of our presence here" Sulayman@drcrippler: "I would hope so... though this one... seems to be very frustraiting indeed... hence calling you lot," Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ nods. "Patching him through." She transfers the hail to the Captain's chair. Keliaya@anncarise: "What did you find special about it?" Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois Holo-Timo appears not far from Keelah:"Keelah..wouldn't you think I would leave the Forge doing all the funny exploration without our sensors?" he says, a huge smile on his face. Sulayman@drcrippler: "Captain Timoreev," he smiles. "So nice to see you, and your sensors," Keelah@crystyll smiles, "Still not ready to concede that one, Andrej? A pleasure to be back at your side as always" Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "The pleasure is mine...Capt. Al-Firawn, nice to see you with the white." he then turns on Nimitz:"Capt. Nimitz...well, we are just behind you. Let's start." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan gives a polite nod to Timo. Keelah@crystyll turns to Sulay, "Indeed so; what's the situation here, exactly?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan is pretty tense to be this close to a Supernova. Sulayman@drcrippler: "Yes so..." he... shuffles awkwardly around HoloTimo to the front Sulayman@drcrippler: "What we have here," he points to the supernova. "Is SN2417 J2587-7518. I did a full survey on J2587-7518 last year, as the star went supernova," he smiles at the memories Sulayman@drcrippler: "The survey was a critical success and helped a lot with our knowledge on supernovas. However, we calculated that the supernova would remain at a high intensity for at least 528.2 days before it Sulayman@drcrippler: began to decay. It's beginning to decay 327.12 days after it was formed. This is a huge gap, and we've been trying to figure out why. Unfortunately, it's been... not very fruitful," he frowns Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Just to be clear, there is no risk of a Hobus level event here, correct?" Sulayman@drcrippler: "Oh, no," he says. "Well... at least I don't think so. This is what we have to check. If it's degrading early, it will most likely be because it has low energy to sustain it. However, it could also be Sulayman@drcrippler: the opposite. This energy could be released to cause a cataclysmic event," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan lightly frowns as he stays tense. Sulayman@drcrippler clasps his hands. "So fun!" he beams Sulayman@drcrippler realises he isn't talking to his crew. "Ahem... I hope..." he adds quickly Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: Quirks an eyebrow toward Sula:"Not exactly the word I would use..." Keelah@crystyll: "Well it sounds like you've got a solid set of working theories. Where do we come in with helping to discern which is valid? This is, after all, your show Captain" she smiles" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan is not amused. Sulayman@drcrippler goes red at being called Captain by his superiors. "Oh well..." he looks around. "We some good sensors on the ships here. We can use that to our advantage. If we all spread out..." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ sips her coffee, maintaining station-keeping. Sulayman@drcrippler: "And then, I need the Akagi to constantly measure the safety of the supernova and how close we can get to it... the closer the better for our scans..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan slowly nods Keliaya@anncarise: "We could always deploy probes into the risky areas...or straight into the area affected by the supernova." Keliaya@anncarise: "If it could get the data back in time before it's destroyed, sometimes losing a few probes might be worth the scientific information they collect." Keelah@crystyll: "Rather that than take any ship in" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "That's what probes are for, after all!" Sulayman@drcrippler: "Nope," he shakes his head. "We've tried that. We're out of probes. The supernova seems to destroy them before any data can be transmitted," Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "all our ships have a full array of probes at their disposal." Sulayman@drcrippler: "That's why I requested that we have ships. We need to really skirt the edges. It's to your discretions how close we get, but closer is better," Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "I may have an idea." Keelah@crystyll: "What type of probes have been using?" Sulayman@drcrippler: "They are your commands... I don't want to get you guys in trouble," he mutters. "Oh, we have special astrometric probes designed exactly for this purpose," Sulayman@drcrippler: "They're called the... firawn probes," he mutters the last part quietly. "Stupid naming..." Keelah@crystyll quirks a very Vulcan brow, "Apparently that design needs to be revisited..." she turns to Timo, "What was your suggestion, Andrej?" Sulayman@drcrippler blinks. "Well... no..." he says defensively, before stopping and looking at Timo Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "If our goal is to collect more and more accurate data, perhaps the best chance of increasing our sensors output is by using scale at our advantage. We could position our vessels each at a specific + Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: + point around the star, then we could connect our sensors, with a single vessel working as hub. At the end, theorically at least, we should have exponentially increased our capacity of analyzing the+ Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: + star." Sulayman@drcrippler: "I think that might work," he nods. "It was a possibility, but I didn't know what assistance I would get... which one of your ships has the fastest computing power?" Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "We are equipped for this kind of missions. I guess the Forge too has similar processing capacity." Keelah@crystyll: "We do most likely, however it may be more advantageous to seperate the ship and create an extra sensor point on this occassion" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "My ship does as well, it's just a matter of rerouting some of our tactical sensors." Keelah@crystyll: "I would surmise that given it's bespoke design being most fit for purpose, the Attar would serve best as the hub. If you plot a 5-point deployment from that, we can cover two with adequate sensor + Sulayman@drcrippler nods. "That might be a good idea, Captain Se'Lai. Which means if we place the Valley Forge parts, Attar, and al Haytham in the grid and use the Akagi as a central point..." Keelah@crystyll: + power to each unit" Sulayman@drcrippler: "Oh," he says, coming to a different conclusion to Keelah Keelah@crystyll chuckles, "Either works" glancing left to right, "You gents know your ships better than either of us two; which best serves as the hub?" Sulayman@drcrippler: "I was going to say, the Akagi can reroute her tactical powers into the central hub to boost the power. We can then use our full scientific sensors on the star," he explains Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: Scrolls his holo-shoulders:"Personally, you know the answer for me, Keelah." he chuckles. Keelah@crystyll rolls her eyes with a smirk, "You boys play nice now" as she stands to tend to matters on the VF Sulayman@drcrippler: "A hub is a hub, and can be used using any sensors. Scientific sensors can't be replicated by tactical sensors," Keelah@crystyll walks to the back, "Kelly; this seems like a fitting assignment to get you some command seat hours logged. How do you feel about taking command of the secondary hull for this split?" Sulayman@drcrippler goes the same colour as his shoulders as Keelah walks away. Glances between the two Captains. Feels like Dr Grant in JP3 as the two dinos are fighting Sulayman@drcrippler: "Erm... I say that Akagi..." he mutters Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "I would agree. The Attar has specialized equipment for this kind of assignments. After all, it's her primary duty." Keliaya@anncarise: "Well I'm not exactly trained for ship command, but it's a science mission, and science missions I can do!" Keelah@crystyll: "You're still a bridge officer, and with more than sufficient training to prepare" she smiles, "Don't worry, I'll be on hand and will still coordinate both sections" Sulayman@drcrippler looks at Nimitz for confirmation Keliaya@anncarise nods, "I'll make sure we don't get singed." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods to Sula "It is your call, if you want the Akagi to serve as a Hub, we'll do it." Keelah@crystyll chuckles, "Glad to hear it. Alright, report to the secondary bridge and begin prep" looks to comms, "Tee; have the standby crew report to the secondary bridge" Sulayman@drcrippler: "Make it so," he nods "Erm... please Captain," he adds quickly. "I'm going to figure out the sensor pattern but it might take me a few mins. You can go... do scans? Whilst you wait?" he shrugs and qui Sulayman@drcrippler: ckly slips away Keelah@crystyll joins Muir up front, "So lieutenant, ever been through a seperation before?" Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois turns on Sula. He may look amused by seeing how he is reacting. Finally, turns back on Nimitz:"Apparently, he didn't listen to you." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ sips her coffee, shaking her head. "I...have not. In sims, sure, but not on a ship. I'd love to give it a shot, though." Sulayman@drcrippler exhales as he reaches the console. "So..." Sulayman@drcrippler [Kazra] elbows him. "Good work out there... Captain," she winks. "It's cute seeing you flustered on the big stage," Keelah@crystyll: "Your card says you're signed off for the manouvre, so by the numbers. The Forge can be... a bit of a stallion if you let her" Keliaya@anncarise heads for the turbolift to take control of the battle bridge. Sulayman@drcrippler panics even more. "What? Erm... I... erm..." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ nods. "Don't I know it." She grins. "I'll handle it. Don't you worry, Skip." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan arches a brow at Timo Keelah@crystyll smiles, "Liaise with Kelly once she reports ready from the secondary bridge" Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "You take the lead, captain Nimitz." he says at the end:"The Attar's sensors will be better be used actively rather than passively" he looks around to see if Keelah can hear him. Sulayman@drcrippler [Kazra] laughs. "Oh where is Charlie when you need him? Oh, I've done the pattern thing for you already," she hands him a PADD. Sulayman@drcrippler [Kazra] "I'll let you take the credit for this one," she winks Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ nods. "Aye, ma'am." She turns back to her console and pulls up the checklist for separation. Sulayman@drcrippler: "Oh... erm... thanks... Kazra..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan makes his way back to the transporter room to beam onto his ship. Keelah@crystyll: "Vrolmacht; sound general stations. Thorkilsden; disengage power linkage and bring the saucer nacelles online" Keelah@crystyll betrays the flash of a smile to holotimo as she passes, clearly enjoying the task at hand Sulayman@drcrippler shuffles towards the front. Opens his mouth to talk to Muir, but she looks busy, so he does it himself Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "It has been a while since I last saw the Forge splitting." he comments to Keelah, after having given orders to his officers concerning the Attar's positioning and sensors. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: <FX> Once Nimitz is back on his ship, the Akagi takes up postion to serve as the Hub. Keelah@crystyll: "It's not a trick I care to overdo. Kelly works far too hard balancing our power distribution and resetting it after a split is often a headache" Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ grins, quickly running down the separation checklist. Without looking up, she asks, "So...does that make us Valley and the secondary Forge?" Sulayman@drcrippler: <C> al-Firawn to all ships. I'm sending you the positioning that has been caluclated... by Commander Kazra," he says Keelah@crystyll chuckles at Muir, "Why not!" Sulayman@drcrippler: <c> "Please standby," he adds quickly Keliaya@anncarise pops on as a holo, "Battle bridge is all set for separation." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ looks back. "Helm stands ready for sep." Sulayman@drcrippler heads back into the centre Keelah@crystyll | Thorkilsden: "Power linkage split and secondary core online" Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: FX: The Attar is taking position at the designated coordinates Keelah@crystyll: "Alright Kelly, we're green up here too" she looks forward, "Lieutenant; initiate the split." Keliaya@anncarise: "Ready whenever you are, Captain." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ nods, breathing slowly. "Initiate separation, aye." She taps on a button, and eases the saucer out slowly, using secondary thrusters. Sulayman@drcrippler FX| With the Akagi in position, the Attar and the drive section of the VF take their positions furthest away from the Akagi Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "We're in position, Keelah." he smiles again:"We are ready whenever you are." Keelah@crystyll | Thorkilsden: "Clamps disengaged and clear... distance to drive sectio-... to 'Forge'; 3m... 5m... 10m... 20m..." Sulayman@drcrippler FX| The al Haytham and the VF saucer slot into position between the far ships and the Akagi, the al Haytham on the side of the Attar, the VF pieces on the other side Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ sighs in relief. "Successful separation. Moving to position." Sulayman@drcrippler: <C> All ships, report in when in position Keelah@crystyll: "See now, that wasn't so bad lieutenant" Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: <C>Attar in position. Keelah@crystyll mumbles, "Just wait for the reintegration..." Keelah@crystyll clears her throat Sulayman@drcrippler FX| Suddenly seems perfectly fine to dictate stuff on the VF now that it's all sciencey Keelah@crystyll: <C> Valley saucer standing by Keliaya@anncarise chuckles, "That takes some good maneuvering from what I've heard from the pilots..." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ rolls her eyes. "That'll be fun." She grins. "I'm kinda looking forward to it." Sulayman@drcrippler: ((I mean it can be a FX if we want)) Keliaya@anncarise: <C> "Valley Forge secondary hull standing by." Sulayman@drcrippler: <C> Roger that. Akagi, you ready to recieve?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: <C> We are standing by. To Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: So. Supernova is stable for now Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ turns to look behind her. "Primary hull in position." Sulayman@drcrippler: <C> "Let's start... sensoring..." To Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: Mass of the star looks strange To Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ: There is strange radiation coming from the supernova Keelah@crystyll: "So, quite the difference without the drive section attached, isn't it. People always presume the saucer to be a lot more manouverable solo" To Keliaya@anncarise: There is a lot of pent up energy in the supernova Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: He can be seen talking with an invisible officer before turning back on Keelah:"We have some weird readings about the star's mass...." To Keelah@crystyll: Erm... Hi? I have nothing to send to you >_> Keliaya@anncarise: Pent up as in stored and not being discharged? To Keliaya@anncarise: Yes Keelah@crystyll: ok... will keep making small talk then! Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ laughs, shaking her head. "Not at all. It's kind of strange." She glances down at her console. "We've got some unusual radiation coming from the supernova." To Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: Supernova is still stable. Nothing seems out of the ordinary Keelah@crystyll: "Interesting is good, Andrej... I think?" To Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: Mass keeps fluctuating Keliaya@anncarise: "Our sensors are seeing a lot of stored energy in the supernova." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: <C> According to our sensors the supernova is still stable. Keelah@crystyll glances back, "Kazra, see if you can get a breakdown of that radiation" Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "I said weird, not interesting." he makes a faint smile:"And mass keeps fluctuating. I'm not an astrophysicist, but my degree in physics tells me this is still weirder." To Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ: The VF saucer begins to move towards the supernova! To Keliaya@anncarise: Erm... Keliaya@anncarise: hmm? Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ eeps a bit, tapping a few buttons. "Uh. Captain? We're getting pulled in." To Keliaya@anncarise: Oh okay. So the energy far exceeds what was orginally reported in Sulayman's report Keelah@crystyll: "Full reverse!" To Keelah@crystyll: Oh, since you've taken over Kazra... Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ applies full reverse. "Full reverse, aye." Keelah@crystyll she scowls, having placed faith in the determined positioning. Scientists... To Keelah@crystyll: Radiation does not map what this star should be emitting Keliaya@anncarise: "Need any tractor assistance?" Keelah@crystyll: i got that from the first report, hence asking K to analyze it :p To Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: From the data, you start being able to see that there is an external effect on the supernova Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: is there any reading on what is causing the effect? Keelah@crystyll: "Standby Kelly. We'll kick in warp drive first if needed" To Keelah@crystyll: Oh, okay, so Kazra finds out there's some radiation that is only emitted when certain paricles are excited by a direct nuclear force. That shouldn't be here Keliaya@anncarise nods, "We've got a lock ready if you need." Keliaya@anncarise | Secondary hull measures the gravitational pull of the supernova in the meantime, using the difficulty of the saucer to break away as a measuring point. To Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: Nope, not yet Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ starts spooling up the secondary warp drive, in preperation. Keliaya@anncarise glances to Sulayman, "You're certain your initial readings of the star was correct?" To Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: Erm... okay so... the mass keeps expanding and contracting, storing energy somewhere Sulayman@drcrippler: "Positive," he nods Keelah@crystyll | Kazra, "This radiation dispersal is inconsistent, I would only expect to see this when specific particles are excited by a direct nuclear force. They should not be present in this environment" Keliaya@anncarise: "The energy readings I'm getting are significantly higher, and a supernova should be expelling its energy, not producing more." Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: Anoter small talk off-screen and he comes back:"The star mass is keeping its expansion-contraction process. The energy should be stored somewhere..." To Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ: Just as you start going back, the saucer section is thrown back gently again. Like a boat on a wave, it's beginning to gently bob Keelah@crystyll continues watching the more imperative issue of the saucer being able to pull away Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ: so we're going backwards, and we then get jerked backwards? Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "...it is indeed producing energy, or a process similar to this." To Keliaya@anncarise: The energy seems to be stored around the supernova, like a shell To Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ: yes, but it's really gentle To Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ: Like... a blade of grass in a breeze Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ grunts. "We're moving back, but...At a different rate. Like we got pulled back...or blown back. Gently, though." To Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: Okay so as the data comes in, you can start to see that the effect is outside the system Keliaya@anncarise: "According to our scans, the energy is coming from /around/ the supernova. Maybe that energy barrier is what keeps frying the probes." Keelah@crystyll frowns a little, "Are you saying our reverse momentum was beyond the output applied via our own engines?" To Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: There's literally a trail of energy leading in. You can't see it perfectly yet Keliaya@anncarise glances to Keelah, "That's unusual..." To Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: The mass contractions are from an external effect. It's not natural Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: <C> Akagi actual to task force, we are reading something outside the system that is having an effect on the supernova.. still working on cleaning up the data on what is causing it. Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ nods. "Precisely. Like we're in the ocean, and a wave just rocked us back." To Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ: Erm... I have nothing for you right now... so... hi! Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "It is. And it is not natural, too: at least, the weird readings of the mass are not." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ: It's good! Keelah@crystyll 's brow quirks almost with a mind of it's own as she eases back in her chair, "Curious... take us back to a safe margin beyond the measuring point. I do not want to be caught by a change in the tide" To Keliaya@anncarise: Erm... oh, okay so there is some dispersal of energy from the sphere. It's probably what's causing the VF saucer to move To Keelah@crystyll: Hello! Yeah I have nothing for you... was Kazra doing anything? To Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: Erm, accidental team invite! Keelah@crystyll: not since the rads update. i'm just chilling now :) Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ nods. "Understood." She maneuvers the ship backwards. "We should be at a safe distance. Station keeping is working overtime, though." Keliaya@anncarise: "We're seeing some energy being dispersed from the supernova's...energy shield? Whatever this bubble of energy is around it." Keliaya@anncarise: "That's likely what's causing these 'tides.'" To Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: So, yeah, the data falls through as the VF saucer moves out of position To Keliaya@anncarise: When do you have to go? Keliaya@anncarise: In 1 hour To Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: Erm... Hi. I have nothing for you now Keliaya@anncarise: Also is the energy continuing to increase? Keliaya@anncarise: Or has it decreased after dispersing a bit? Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: XD To Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ: You move out of the way. Congrats, you passed Starship moves 1010 Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ: horray! Keelah@crystyll: "Monitor the negative pull and pull us back further if you have to push thrusters over 60% for stationkeeping" Keelah@crystyll hrms and wanders To Keliaya@anncarise: It disappates a little bit, but the dispersal does not remove all the energy so the sphere keeps building up Keelah@crystyll: "Kazra, can you visualize a pattern to this pulsing effect we're witnessing?" To Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: Ok. So... energy build up. It can totally go boom and wipe out an entire sector Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ nods. "Understood. We seem to be relatively stable now." To Keelah@crystyll: She can but... you've moved out of position so she can't get any readings anymore! Keliaya@anncarise | Secondary hull keeps its distance, trying to figure out where the energy in the energy shell is coming from. Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "Energy buildup detected!" he pauses for a moment, apparently hearing a report:"This is huge. We are detecting an energy power that, if released, could have catastorphic consequences on this whole + Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: + area of space." Sulayman@drcrippler frowns. Keliaya@anncarise: "Where's it coming from? It's just one star going supernova, it shouldn't have this level of energy..." Keelah@crystyll | Kazra shakes her head despondently, "Not from here, Captain" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: still nothing on what is causing the build up yet? Sulayman@drcrippler: <C> Okay, all ships. Let's fall back around the Akagi to review these findings, especially since the network is broken," Keliaya@anncarise: "And energy doesn't just appear, it has to form from somewhere." To Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: No, other than you know it's from outside the system, the network was broken when the saucer moved out of position! Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois FX: The Attar is moving in order to regroup with the other vessels Keelah@crystyll nods, "Finney; move us around to regroup" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan holos himself in "From what we can tell, when the saucer section of the Forge moved out of postion, it broke off whatever was trying to effect the supernova." Keliaya@anncarise: "Secondary hull is regrouping as well." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "It came from outside the system as well." Keelah@crystyll: "Are we able to pinpoint the source?" Keliaya@anncarise: "I was just about to ask." Sulayman@drcrippler nods. "I've got it. It's still there..." he motions Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "How is it possible for a force outside the system to influence the star?" Sulayman@drcrippler: "If I may?" he looks to Keelah Keelah@crystyll gestures openly, "By all means" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "The same way the Hobus supernova was able to destory my homeworld..." Sulayman@drcrippler taps the console parts on her armrest Keliaya@anncarise nods, "I'm no expert on the Hobus incident, but this does bear some resemblence..." Keliaya@anncarise glances to Timo, "It could be through subspace. Distance in normal space has little meaning there." Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "That's true." he nods to Kelly:"Whatever it is, by the way, we need to stop it. The danger is high." Keliaya@anncarise: "Agreed." Sulayman@drcrippler FX| The viewscreen shows a direct energy beam hitting the supernova. An energy sphere is building up around the supernova. Small waves of energy seems to radiate outwards from the sphere Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ glances up at the viewscreen. "What the hell was that?" Sulayman@drcrippler is not impressed. Keelah@crystyll watches the curiosity on screen, "Well if know where it's coming from, what's say we go find out?" Sulayman@drcrippler: "This is... amazing..." he says, open jawed and wide eyed Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "It is amazing for sure. BUt we need to know more about it." Sulayman@drcrippler: "The... energy beam... is... changing the very mass of the star... that's... causing so much energy buildup... and the gravity is keeping it... all together..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "The Akagi is the fastest ship, if it is not friendly, we can return for reenforcements if needed." Sulayman@drcrippler is very clearly in astrophysics heaven Alistair Nimitz@natthaan was vonunteering to check it out. Keliaya@anncarise wonders when Sulayman got possessed by Kirk. Keliaya@anncarise tries to trace the vector of the beam to see if it leads to the same coordinates identified earlier. Keelah@crystyll: "Well whatever we decide, I think it's safe to say that we no longer require the two halves. Finney; time to test that steady hand with reintegration" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "I will take the Akagi to invesgate the source." Keliaya@anncarise nods, "Secondary hull is maneuvering into position. Our helm will coordinate with you, Lieutenant." Sulayman@drcrippler shakes his head. "Actually..." he says to Nimitz. "I would actually like the Akagi here..." he mumbles Alistair Nimitz@natthaan perks a brow at Sula, but doesn't argue this time. "Very well." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ grins. "Yes, captain." She maneuvers the ship in a wide left hand arc, tracing a path to intercept the secondary hull at a tangent. As the ship passes over the secondary hull, the saucer section >> Sulayman@drcrippler: "The Akagi is still set up for analysis see," he explains Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ straightens out, steadying up on course. She brings the saucer to a halt, about 1 km from the secondary. The saucer then backs in, slowly. Muirgen uses stationkeeping to straighten out the path. Keelah@crystyll: "You were at the heart of the sensor net. Staying in range of the others may allow for better analysis. We can head out once reintegrated if that works and take the rest of you with us" Sulayman@drcrippler: "The Valley Forge is the only ship not equipped with advanced scientific sensors. The Attar and al Haytham can regroup and try to collect more data from the supernova," Sulayman@drcrippler nods Keelah@crystyll sloooowly turns to Sula, /both/ brows raised Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "So, at the end, is the plan to send the Forge?" Keelah@crystyll: "Remind me to refresh you on our technical manual some time Commander... and not to throw it at you" she adds with a light smirk Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ continues backing the saucer up. "Opening couplings...Secondary, this is Primary. Open coupings, make ready for re-integration." Sulayman@drcrippler: "Yes Captain," he nods "If... Captain Se'Lai agrees..." he withers under the look Keelah@crystyll nods to the suggestion, "We can be underway momentarily" Sulayman@drcrippler glances at the other two. "Will you be joining us?" he asks the two Captains Keliaya@anncarise: "Couplings are open, we're set to re-integrate." Keelah@crystyll FX | A dull thrum resounds around the ship as the saucer locks back into place Keliaya@anncarise: "Great job! Everything looks green from my end." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ reads off the range reports. "50 meters, 40...30...20...10..." She slows down, and with a final tilt of the nose up, the saucer reintegrates to the secondary section. Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: Nods to Sulayman:"I would not leave all the fun to the the two of you." Sulayman@drcrippler grins. "I knew you shared my excitement sir!" Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ sighs. "Integration successful." Keelah@crystyll: "Kelly, integrate the secondary core to the EPS since it's spooled up already. And keep the reactor hot; I think the least we can do to reward the lieutenants fine skills is let her enjoy the + Keelah@crystyll: + benefits of all engines firing, don't you think?" she smiles Keliaya@anncarise smiles back, "I'm sure she'd enjoy that! On it now." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ rolls her eyes, but grins. "Reconnecting EPS conduits...done. Ready on my end." Sulayman@drcrippler: "You should be recieving coordinates Lieutenant," he says Keelah@crystyll: "Flawlessly executed, lieutenant. Prepare a course to the Commanders coordinates and standby to engage once everyone is transferred on board" Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ nods. "Coordinates entered. Awaiting command." Sulayman@drcrippler runs his hand through his hair, beaming widely. He's... having fun? Alistair Nimitz@natthaan cuts the holo feed as Nimitz makes his way onto the VF Keliaya@anncarise: "Want be back on the bridge, or should I monitor the cores from Engineering?" Keelah@crystyll: "Return to your station Kelly. I don't anticipate having to do that twice in one day. Nicely done down there" Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois holo-Timo disappears as well. Sulayman@drcrippler is bouncing lightly on the balls of his feet Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois after a while, a rea-Timo emerges from the turbolift. Keelah@crystyll watches Sulay from the corner of her eye, "...no advanced scientific sensors..." she mumbles just loud enough for him to hear Keliaya@anncarise: "Thanks. I'll be back on the bridge in just a moment!" Keliaya@anncarise disappears from holo. Keelah@crystyll: "Alright Finney, that should be everyone. Take us out" Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ checks her console. "Oooh, this is gonna be fun..." She grins. Sulayman@drcrippler is clearly too overcome with excitement Sulayman@drcrippler FX| The VF jumps to warp, easily matching Sulayman's excitement Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ taps the big red button marked "Engage"; the ship jumps to warp speed toward the coordinates provided. Sulayman@drcrippler FX| A short while later, the VF emerges on the outskirts of a system Keelah@crystyll mentally notes to have Eunha throw the VF technical manual at Sulay for her Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ brings the ship out of warp. "And we're on impulse." Keliaya@anncarise steps out of the turbolift a few moments later and heads back to the bridge station. Sulayman@drcrippler FX| The system contains six planetary bodies, with a yellow star in the middle Keelah@crystyll: "Alright. Let's get a fix on the source of that energy beam" she looks back to Kelly Keliaya@anncarise scans for signs of anything that could be feeding energy to the supernova. Keliaya@anncarise: "The energy is coming from something in orbit of the fourth planet, definitely an artificial construct." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ glances down at an alert on her console. "Incoming hail. Unknown source." Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "An hail? That's interesting..." Keelah@crystyll: "Well then, let's take a closer look shall we. Bring us into visual range and continue sca-..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan walks himself over to the tactical console and looks over the scanners. Keelah@crystyll: "Well... I guess we should answer then. On screen..." she shares a slightly concerned look with the others gathered Sulayman@drcrippler FX| Keelah comes face to face with a blank screen. Text appears on it, as if someone was typing Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ brings the hail on screen, while also maneuvering to bring the ship within range. Keliaya@anncarise monitors the energy in case it suddenly changes direction or starts getting used against them in some way. Keelah@crystyll: "Hold fire on that approach until we know more" she notes to Muir while watching the screen Sulayman@drcrippler: [YOU ARE ENTERING NELARAAN SPACE. PLEASE STATE YOUR INTENTIONS] Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "Shy people?" he asks in a murmur. Keelah@crystyll again looks back with a slightly unsure expression, does she speak, type, hand sign... Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ nods, stopping just short of engaging the course change. Sulayman@drcrippler shrugs. "Try... speaking?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "It seems to be a primative device in orbit.." Keelah@crystyll: "An automated challenge?" she looks to Nimitz Sulayman@drcrippler: [PLEASE STATE YOUR INTENTION] Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "It could be.." *Checks to see where the transmission is coming from* Keelah@crystyll clears her throat before attempting to communicate with whoever or whatever it is Keelah@crystyll: "This is the Federation starship; Valley Forge on a mission of peaceful exploration" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "There are a ring of communication relays around the outskirts of the system... that's where the transmissions are coming from." Sulayman@drcrippler: [THIS IS THE FEDERATION STARSHIP; VALLEY FORGE ON A MISSION OF PEACEFUL EXPLORATION] Sulayman@drcrippler: [...] Keelah@crystyll resists the urge to facepalm as she watches Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ blinks. "We're being scanned." Sulayman@drcrippler: [VALLEY FORGE. WELCOME TO NELARA. YOU ARE CLEARED FOR ENTRY. HAVE A GOOD DAY] Keelah@crystyll: "That's ok, let them scan. We came here scanning out of curiosity too..." Sulayman@drcrippler: [...] Keelah@crystyll: "Um... thank you...?" Keliaya@anncarise: "Well...that's nice..." Sulayman@drcrippler: [connection severed] Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "Uh...this is even more interesting." Sulayman@drcrippler: "Wow..." Keliaya@anncarise: "It's a good change, considering half the time we stumble across another civilization's space, they tend to shoot first and ask questions later..." Sulayman@drcrippler FX| A path of relays begin to light up, seemingly leading the VF in Keelah@crystyll: "Ok then. So clearly we've landed on somebody's doorstep... can we pinpoint which planet-..." she sighs, "Nevermind" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan keeps his eyes on the scanner for any hostile red blips heading to the friendly green blip. Keelah@crystyll: "Finney..." she waves a hand almost in disbelief, "...take us in" Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ looks back to the captain, then back to her console. She shrugs. "Taking us in." Sulayman@drcrippler: FX| https://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large/airport-runway-at-night-lamyl-hammoudi.jpg Sulayman@drcrippler: ((what the lights look like!)) Keelah@crystyll: "You know, this kind of reminds me of the Legia system. They had an orbital approach procedure not unlike this" Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ hmms. "This is kind of welcoming." Sulayman@drcrippler FX| The VF enters orbit around the fourth planet. As they do, they can detect... a lot of traffic. Spaceports, ships, satellites... Keelah@crystyll: "As is all bait. Stay sharp" Sulayman@drcrippler FX| The lights turn red and cease ahead Keelah@crystyll: "I assume that is our parking spot then..." she notes the change in running lights Keliaya@anncarise: "It does feel like Legia now that you mention it..." Sulayman@drcrippler FX| Another row of lights perpendicular to the original path opens, and a small ship zooms past. The lights turn green for the VF and continue. Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "It is fascinating to see how visual communication follows similar patterns among civilizations so distant one from the other..." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ hmms. "A stop light. How quaint." Keliaya@anncarise makes passive scans of their ships, checking if they have warp capability. Sulayman@drcrippler: Yep they do! Keelah@crystyll chuckles at the sight in front of them, "This is rather charming by all accounts. Kelly, I trust you're filling the sensor palettes with everything they can take in right now" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "I can confirm they've definitely got warp drives, so Prime Directive protocols won't be a concern." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan arches a brow as he reads the information coming in "Well.... that's new.." Keliaya@anncarise tries some more active scans to determine their overall tech level Keelah@crystyll looks over with mixed curiosity and concern Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ chuckles. "Why doesn't ESD have something like this?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan puts up the view of the spaceports and the traffic on screen. Sulayman@drcrippler FX| The lights lead the VF into orbit before they start to blink around the ship Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ follows the lights in. Sulayman@drcrippler FX| The lights flash green once the VF is in position, before turning off Sulayman@drcrippler FX| The screen flashes white Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ hmphs, coming to a stop. "Huh." Sulayman@drcrippler: [YOU ARE CLEAR TO TRANSPORT] Sulayman@drcrippler: [...] Sulayman@drcrippler FX| Screen fades Keliaya@anncarise: "This civilization appears to be on par with early-Federation levels, or pre-Federation Vulcan." Sulayman@drcrippler: "Well... this is the first time I've seen such welcome Sulayman@drcrippler: " Keelah@crystyll: "Well now, seems like a cordial invitation. Can we discern any designated transport coordinates?" Keliaya@anncarise: "We're detecting transporter signals, force field technology, artificial gravity, and their cores suggest a maximum speed of warp 7, not unlike the D'Kyr-classes." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "I think I saw this before.... no one tell them anything about our birthdays." Muirgen@BobSagetYYZ nods. "We do have the coordinates. They're either expecting us or this is just routine." Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: "Looks like a very much automated system to me..." Keliaya@anncarise: "At this level of technology, I wouldn't be surprised if they've already made numerous first contacts with other species before us." Keelah@crystyll: "Then I guess it is time to meet the natives" she looks to Timo with a smile, "You are the senior officer in attendance, Andrej" Keliaya@anncarise: "I'm guessing they probably have a whole system in place." Sulayman@drcrippler: "Erm..." he pipes in. "Let's not forget that they're the ones beaming the stuff into the star..." Keliaya@anncarise: "It doesn't necessarily have to be ill-intentioned..." Keelah@crystyll: "Exactly Commander. And what better way to get an explanation than to ask them first hand when we explain how we came to be in their system" Sulayman@drcrippler: "I mean... yes... but... that was a lot of energy build up. We should make sure that we tell them... to stop?" Andrej Timoreev@chrisdubois: Smiles at Keelah:"Leaving the hot ball to me, aren't you?" he chuckles:"Well...let's go then." Sulayman@drcrippler suddenly doesn't feel as excited since this is become social and not science Keliaya@anncarise: "Remember, a Federation starship was responsible for wiping out the Kilur civilization. The Federation's made its fair share of devastating mistakes as well." Keliaya@anncarise: "This could just be a science experiment they don't know the implications of." Keelah@crystyll: "We certainly need to make sure they are aware the dangers of what they're doing. But for all we know at present Commander; they are more advanced than us in that department and know exactly what + Keelah@crystyll: + They are doing, with good cause. So we should investigate first without preconceptions" she smiles back Sulayman@drcrippler: "Let's go check then!" Keelah@crystyll nods, extending an open hand towards the turbolift, "After you, gents. Kelly; you have the conn" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "Good luck with First Contact, Captain." ---------------------------------------------------- Al-T@drcrippler FX| The pair beam down to this man standing there Alistair Nimitz@natthaan arches a brow as they beam in, looking to the man standing there "Are you here to escort us to your leader?" Al-T@drcrippler FX| Around him are a bunch of identical looking people holding up a banner saying "Welcome Valley Forge" Keelah@crystyll looks around at the welcoming party with a discrete but heavy sigh, "It's Forged Earth all over again..." Al-T@drcrippler FX| On the banner is also a printed picture of Keelah, obviously taken from the ship's databanks Al-T@drcrippler FX| ((What the green people look like)) Al-T@drcrippler: "Welcome to Nelara. I am Governor Erasmus. I will be your host today," he says proudly Keelah@crystyll looks back to Nimitz, Timo & Sulay, "Well... I suppose this is what we get for cordially allowing them to scan us on approach..." Al-T@drcrippler: [Sulayman] "They got your likeness..." Keelah@crystyll clears her throat, "It is a pleasure to meet you Governer. I am..." her eyes drift to the banner, "Well it seems you already know who I am. Allow me to introduce my colleagues; Captain's Timoreev & + Keelah@crystyll: + Nimitz, and Commander al-Firawn" Al-T@drcrippler: "It is wonderful to meet you all. I have been instructed to be very welcoming to you," he beams Keelah@crystyll: "It is our pleasure, Governor" she dips her head respectfully, "Though you really didn't need to go to such lengths..." she indicates the welcoming banner Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "Well... this is very impressive.." Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh no. As a guest of Ace, you are given the highest privilege," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Ace?" Al-T@drcrippler: "Yes. Ace. Our great leader," he smiles. Keelah@crystyll: "We would be honoured to meet with this... Ace" Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh no no," he frowns. "Nobody gets to meet Ace without his prior approval," Al-T@drcrippler: "But I can answer any questions you like," Keelah@crystyll: "Of course... then, I suppose we should get straight to the crux of the matter in what brought us to your system" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "It is traditional for first contact for us to meet your leader.. best way to make sure that nothing is lost in translation afterall." Keelah@crystyll: "Commander..." she looks to Sula for the technobabbly version of things" Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh, yes," he claps his hands. "But first, let us go someplace else. It is terribly busy here in preperation for Ace day," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Ace day? Is Ace a title or a name?" Keelah@crystyll: "Ace day, right..." she smiles professionally, "Please, lead on then Governor" Al-T@drcrippler he turns and claps his hands. The green welcoming party shifts aside. "Ace is a name my good friend," Al-T@drcrippler FX| He leads the group through the busy city. A lot of people can be seen, going about there lives. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "So, was he elected?" Al-T@drcrippler FX| There are people in cars, though the drivers always seem to be pink skinned and similar. There are grey people, identical again, sweeping the streets. Identical red ladies walk amongst other too Al-T@drcrippler FX| In stores, it seems like blue identical people seem to be selling things on. Al-T@drcrippler: "No. Ace is not elected. He is our ruler. We as governors are elected," Keelah@crystyll quirks a brow, taking in the curious sight of the colour-coordinated residents Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "So he was born into the role?" Al-T@drcrippler looks at Nimitz. "Ace has always been. He does not die," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan perks a brow. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "So.. I couldn't help but take note as we've been walking, your people seem to be pretty diverse.." Al-T@drcrippler FX| At the top of the stairs are two brown identical people, with guns. A green person stands in the middle. The Governor flashes a pass, and they are waved through," Al-T@drcrippler: "Yes. We utilise cloning technology to live," he beams. "It's marvellous isn't it? We have created a perfect utopian society, where nobody has to work," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "You are a clone?" Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Or your clones are the people with different skin colors?" Keelah@crystyll shares an uneasy glance with Timo at this picture of cloned utopia Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Forgive me if I am being rude." Al-T@drcrippler laughs out loud at Nimitz. "Oh! No, no, no!" he wipes a tear from his eye as he waves his pass at another green clone and enters an office Al-T@drcrippler: "I am a Pure," he says. "Our clones are the ones who do all the work," he nods over to the screen which he taps Keelah@crystyll follows to more closely observe Al-T@drcrippler: "We currently have ten clone models as you can see here," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Their skin color tells what line of work they carry out for you?" Al-T@drcrippler FX| On the screen, models of black, brown, grey, blue, red, yellow, green, pink, orange, and white clones pop up. They very in genders and look Al-T@drcrippler: "Exactly my friend," he beams at Nimitz. "Not just their colour, but their very structure and build. They are all optimised for their roles," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "That is... interesting." *Doesn't say it in a good tone or a bad tone.* Keelah@crystyll: "This is most fascinating indeed, and believe me when I say that I am eager to learn more. But we really should address the matter of concern which brought us here" Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh yes," he smiles. "One moment," he steps past Al-T@drcrippler: "Red 23. Please bring our guests some refreshments," he says, before turning. "You were saying?" Keelah@crystyll: "You are too kind" she smiles, "Commander?" she returns to her prompt to let the Sci guy talk the Sci stuffs Al-T@drcrippler [Sulayman]'s eyes snap away from the screen. "Oh... yeah... so... we discovered a supernova that was degrading faster than it should be doing and had a large build up of energy. We traced the source Al-T@drcrippler: of this to your system," Keelah@crystyll nods, "Specifically to one of your obrital facilities. We have seen similar such interventions result in catastrophic events, so as I'm sure you can understand; we were concerned" Al-T@drcrippler: "Ah!" the man squeals with excitement. "You discovered our Ultranova Array!" he claps his hands together. "I knew you would be interested in that. By Ace!" he grins as Red 23 appears. She offers the Al-T@drcrippler: tray of glasses containing orange liquid to everyone. Keelah@crystyll takes one, smiling a polite thanks as she looks back to the Governor for a continued explanation Al-T@drcrippler: "Thank you Red 23. And anything to eat?" he asks. Red nods and disappears again Keelah@crystyll: "Perhaps later" she offers, holding the well rehearsed diplomatic smile. Taking a tentative taste of the beverage as she listens Al-T@drcrippler: "Yes, a considerable step up from our Planetary Heater, I tell you," he sips his drink Al-T@drcrippler FX| The drink tastes similar to very watered down pomegranate juice Keelah@crystyll: "So could you explain exactly what you are doing with this 'ultranova'?" Al-T@drcrippler: "With this weapon, we will be able to take out entire sectors by letting stars supernova! It's such a magnificent weapon!" Keelah@crystyll cough-chokes on her drink, "You are... weaponizing it? ...a supernova?" Al-T@drcrippler: "Yes," he beams, sipping the drink Al-T@drcrippler [Sulayman gently pats Keelah on the back. His own face is a mixture of awe and horror. Keelah@crystyll: "May I ask to what end. That is to say; we detected no signs of ongoing conflict when we entered your system..." Keelah@crystyll nods discretely back to Sulayman, clearly sharing his concerns Al-T@drcrippler: "Sector domination of course! We will expand into space, in the name of Ace. It will be glorious," Keelah@crystyll sighs wearily, "I see. So you plan to destroy stars to assert your dominance over other species in the region..." Keelah@crystyll: "Yet, you have shown us such a warm diplomatic welcome. The two methods seem rather... contradictory, do they not?" Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh, no, only if they offer resistance see. You can't colonise areas you destroy," he frowns. "I thought you would know that," Keelah@crystyll: "Well there is a certain logic to that statement. But still; why the hostile approach alongside such a friendly one?" Al-T@drcrippler: "Well, people can be very stubborn," he says. "We offer a choice. Join us or be destroyed," he smiles. "Very soon we'll be a big power in the galaxy like you are," Keelah@crystyll: "And what if the big powers in the galaxy that you aim to emulate decide not to join you? Because you strike me as beings far too intelligent to assume technological dominance" Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh, well this is why he have our ultranova. Once we complete this, we can destroy systems until people agree to join us," he smiles. "Like a Tranian, you can lead them forward and most of the time Al-T@drcrippler: they do happily. But sometimes they don't want to go forward, so a slap with a stick on the rump sends them right along!" Keelah@crystyll: "Right. So tell me; because we have not been studying this particular nova for too long; how long does it take for your weapon to achieve it's effect?" Al-T@drcrippler: "We have yet to master it fully. Our scientists are aiming for the star to supernova and explode in a matter of days. Our first test seems to have predicted around a year," Keelah@crystyll: "Right... so do you not think that during the course of that year, the people who's star your firing at might not, I don't know, say... amass a fleet large enough to fill this system and come to take+ Keelah@crystyll: + out your weapon first?" Keelah@crystyll maintains a very casual, matter-of-curios-debate tone Keelah@crystyll doesn't want to p*** off the crazy clone aliens with the starkiller deathray Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh no," he chuckles. "We have a lot of defensive systems in place to prevent such a thing," he beams happily, sipping his drink Al-T@drcrippler: *drink Keelah@crystyll: "You can't seriously believe that you could defend a fixed position indefinitely against an entire sector of allied forces. Should such a scenario play out, of course" Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh we could," he tilts his head. "Our many simulations have yielded 100% results for us every time. In addition to this, the people in this sector are very divided. They could not mount a unified + Al-T@drcrippler: assault on us at all," Keelah@crystyll: "You may be surprised..." she shakes her head, "But more to the point, what is your reason for wishing to dominate?" Al-T@drcrippler: "It is the way it is meant to be. Everyone living in one Nelaraan empire, ruled by Ace," he says this as if it was as clear as water being wet Keelah@crystyll: "I think it is perhaps time we consulted directly with this 'Ace'. Could that be arranged?" Al-T@drcrippler: "People would want for nothing. They would be free and happy..." he smiles in total bliss Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh," he chuckles. "I am sorry. Nobody can see Ace without appointment. I request one for you, if you so wish," Keelah@crystyll: "But if people are already free and happy, then you come to dominate them. You are in fact depriving them of the very things you claim to offer" Keelah@crystyll: "And yes, please do" Al-T@drcrippler: "How can they be free and happy when they do not live the Nelaraan way of life?" he frowns, confused. Keelah@crystyll: "You scanned our database; you can see from there that Federation citizens live such lives" Al-T@drcrippler: "Yes, you do. This is what we emulate. You understand," he smiles. "Everyone is happy living the Federation way of life. You have your Ace too. I believe he is called "Pres-Dent?" he chuckles. "I Al-T@drcrippler: apologise if my pronounciation has caused you offence," Keelah@crystyll: "No offence" she smiles, raising a hand, "So you claim to emulate the Federation, but the Federation does not force itself on other cultures. It dominates nobody; every member species is on equal + Keelah@crystyll: + footing, not because they were forced to be, but because they chose - freely - to be a part of it" Al-T@drcrippler: "But your ship. It is a ship of great power. You use it to make sure people follow the rules of your society, do you not?" Keelah@crystyll shakes her head, "We use it to protect our free and happy citizens from those who would threaten their way of life" Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh," he chuckles. "Oh this is very interesting. I would be interested in hearing more of what you have to say," he sips his drink. Al-T@drcrippler: "Besides, your talk of force. It is only needed in the extreme measures. Most people are glad to accept the Nelaraan way of life. It is paradise for all," Keelah@crystyll: "So tell me now; what happens when your Empire grows and you decide to 'offer' your utopia to the Federation?" Keelah@crystyll: "Because you seem to acknowledge the Federation's position, and the prowess of her fleet. You must recognize that they would never accept this, so you would be forced into conflict with a superior + Al-T@drcrippler: "We don't need to. You already live like the Nelaarans. You have a perfect society," Keelah@crystyll: + force who you claim to emulate and strive to be more like..." Keelah@crystyll: "With the one small difference that we do not threaten to destroy the star of any system who does not wish to be a member..." Al-T@drcrippler: "Like I said, this is a very interesting concept. It would be facinating to see how such a method works," Keelah@crystyll: "There are centuries worth of historical data in the archives you scanned from our ship. I would suggest your Ace reviews them post haste" Al-T@drcrippler: "Of course, if you would allow such an exchange," he smiles Keelah@crystyll smiles cordially, "Cultural exchange is at the heart of our exploration. Now let me ask you something;" Al-T@drcrippler: "Please do," he smiles. Keelah@crystyll: "If there is a pre-existing way of life that your primary goal is to share with the masses. Is it not more logical to become a part of that pre-existing society, than to force a new one on the same + Keelah@crystyll:+ galactic population?" Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh no, no. We have a perfect way of life. Most people ask us to teach us their ways. We have learnt that others will want to attack us too. So we have developed weapons to destroy them before they do Al-T@drcrippler: us," he smiles. "Unfortunately, I was not very good at history to tell you the fine details, but I can trade our history for yours," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan folds his arms as he listens for now. Keelah@crystyll: "I would like that" she smiles, dipping her head Al-T@drcrippler FX| A green clone enters and whispers something in his ear Al-T@drcrippler looks at his watch. "Oh boy" he says. "I'm going to be late!" Keelah@crystyll: "Oh? I do hope we haven't been keeping you from your duties" Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh, no. Please, I invite you to come and watch the Ace Day parade," Keelah@crystyll: "Of course" she smiles, "Just permit a moment to contact my ship; I wish to have them prepare a proper historical archive for you as a true introduction to the Federation" Al-T@drcrippler: "Of course, you may take your time," Keelah@crystyll dips her head and taps her combadge, stepping away from earshot of any crazy locals Al-T@drcrippler makes his way to the back Keelah@crystyll activates her combadge. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan keeps his thoughts private for now. Keelah@crystyll: <C> Se'Lai to Valley Forge; I need a historical first contact introduction prepared, and... full tactical scans of that orbital facility and the indigenous fleet. I want a solution to shut that thing + Keelah@crystyll: + down by the time return. Se'Lai out" Keelah@crystyll returns moments later with a diplomatic smile, "Well Governor, on to your parade then?" Al-T@drcrippler: "This way," he nods to the back where there is a transporter pad Al-T@drcrippler FX| The group is transported away! Al-T@drcrippler FX| They arrive on a podium, over looking a courtyard. They can see two large warehouses, seperated by a glass walkway. The Courtyard is filled with 100s and 100s of yellow clones, all waiting. Keelah@crystyll: "That's quite the gathering. What is this parade in aid of exactly?" Al-T@drcrippler: [Sulayman] "Wow... there's loads..." Al-T@drcrippler: "Ace Day. In celebration of Ace. It marks the end of the year, where each clone adds another year to their log Al-T@drcrippler: " Al-T@drcrippler he hands them all PADDs. "Lyrics. To our anthem, if you wished to join," he smiles and nods towards the green person on the podium Keelah@crystyll: "Fascinating..." Al-T@drcrippler: "We will now sing the national anthem," the green person announces, and patrotic music begins to play Al-T@drcrippler: "Lords bless Ace. The founding father. For whom we all work!" they sing Al-T@drcrippler: "May he innovate, strive to invigorate, this blessed land of ours," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan respectfully stays silent for this part. Al-T@drcrippler: "Nelara, Nelara, Your seas are plentiful, Your land is bountiful, We aim to serve you!" Al-T@drcrippler [Sulayman] refuses to sing too, especially after reading the first word referred to as plural instead of single Keelah@crystyll does so too, folding her hands at her back quietly listening and observing Al-T@drcrippler: "And now passes another year. And today, we remember those who have successfully completed 20 years of gracious service. For that, we thank you, and grant you retirement," he smiles Al-T@drcrippler nods to the Green man. "Yellow -1" the green man calls, and the first yellow makes her way up the stairs to the podium. Al-T@drcrippler: "Thank you for your service," he nods, and shakes her hand. A white clone steps past Nimitz and holds out a PADD, which the yellow places her hand on. It beeps, before the Yellow returns back in line Keelah@crystyll notes that the first 20yr service award goes to '1', taking as clear indicator to how new this whole culture must still be Al-T@drcrippler: [Green] "Yellow -2" Al-T@drcrippler: "Thank you for your service," he nods and the Yellow repeats the process Al-T@drcrippler FX| This process is continued until they reach yellow 10 Al-T@drcrippler: [Green] "Yellow 10," Al-T@drcrippler: "Thank you for your service," Al-T@drcrippler FX| This time, the pad beeps twice and the Yellow does not rejoin the cue. Instead, she beams, and steps behind the group Al-T@drcrippler: [Green] "Yellow -11" Al-T@drcrippler: "Thank you for your service," Keelah@crystyll quirks a brow at the variation, following -10 with her gaze briefly Al-T@drcrippler FX| Yellow 11 goes and rejoins the line, but not after taking a curious glance at all the newcomers Al-T@drcrippler: *not before Keelah@crystyll would offer -11 a polite congratulatory smile at the glance Al-T@drcrippler: FX| The process continues like this until all 1,000 yellows were accounted for Alistair Nimitz@natthaan looks to Yellow 10 as she is beamed behind them, glancing to the governor. "If I might ask.. what does retirement mean? Also... why was number 10 beamed here instead of going back in line?" Al-T@drcrippler FX| At the end, 100 Yellows are standing behind them Al-T@drcrippler would have given Nimitz a polite shake of his head to indicate he was busy. Al-T@drcrippler FX| With this complete, they sing the anthem again, before the governor turns back Keelah@crystyll jaw aches from politely smiling for 1000... /1000/ yellows Al-T@drcrippler: "Please," he nods at the yellows. "Step in the box," Al-T@drcrippler FX| The yellows beam at this, and all huddle into the box, which is loaded onto a truck and is whizzed away. Keelah@crystyll watches curiously Al-T@drcrippler: "Until next Ace Day," he annouces to the other yellows, before they all file back into the warehouse. Al-T@drcrippler 's smile fades and he looks at his now swollen and red hand. "Ow..." Keelah@crystyll: "That was... something" Al-T@drcrippler: "By Ace, this is the most painful part of the job," he mutters Al-T@drcrippler: "I hope you were not bored," he smiles at the gathering. "It is a long an ardous process," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "So.. what does retirement mean for them?" *Glances to the governor.* "Are they free to live their own life now like you are?" Al-T@drcrippler he turns to Nimitz. "I am sorry I couldn't answer your question earlier. As you could see. I had 990 more to get through," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "Of course." Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh no, no!" he chuckles. "No, no, no. The clones have a working lifespan. Yellows break down after 21 years. We recycle them into pills and create new ones," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan blinks Al-T@drcrippler: [Sulayman] "You... kill them?" Keelah@crystyll: "and make them into... pills?" Al-T@drcrippler looks at Sulayman. "We recycle them?" he frowns. Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "But they have no memories of their first life?" Al-T@drcrippler: "Yes," he looks at Keelah. "The clones run on pills to keep them going. If the aren't fed pills every 36 hours, they break. And no," he shakes his head to Nimitz. "There's the occasional one, but our Al-T@drcrippler: recycling techniques are refined," Keelah@crystyll shakes her head lightly in disbelief, "So the clones are fed on recycled clones..." Alistair Nimitz@natthaan: "You... break them down into pills and then feed them.. themselves.." Al-T@drcrippler: "Yes," he looks at them, not understanding their confusion Al-T@drcrippler [Sulayman] looks like he is about to vomit, and leans on Timo for support Keelah@crystyll reads his expression, "Forgive our curiosity. We have no comparable system in our cultures" Keelah@crystyll: "Perhaps this would be a good time for us to return to the ship and... reflect on what we've learned here at your most gracious hospitality, while we await news of our appointment with Ace" Al-T@drcrippler: "Oh? Well, the clones drive our utopia. It is because of them that we do not work," Al-T@drcrippler smiles to Keelah. "Thank you for visiting. I hope I have been a gracious host. Please do not forget to leave a good review on your departure," he smiles Al-T@drcrippler: "You are all welcome any time," Keelah@crystyll: "And your datapack on the history of the Federation shall be made available as soon as it is compiled as well. I hope both you and Ace have the opportunity to study it before we meet" Al-T@drcrippler: "I have had our history beamed up to your ship," he smiles and nods. "I will beam us back to the spaceport," he says, stepping back Al-T@drcrippler FX| Moments later, the group is teleported to the entrance! Al-T@drcrippler: "This is where I leave you. I hope you have enjoyed your visit to Nelara," Alistair Nimitz@natthaan nods "I'm sure we will be back." Keelah@crystyll: "It was most... enlightening, Governor. Thank you for your hospitality" she raises her hand, presenting a Vulcan salute, "Peace and long life" Al-T@drcrippler attempts to replicate the salute. "Hmmm," his fingers won't open Al-T@drcrippler uses his other hand to prise them apart and holds it up for two seconds before they snap shut again Al-T@drcrippler: "I shall practice before you arrive again," he sighs, looking at his hand Keelah@crystyll chuckles, "We will indeed see you again soon" with a final dip of her head before tapping her combadge, "Valley Forge; Four to beam up" Al-T@drcrippler FX| They are all beamed to the VF! Keelah@crystyll FX | the moment they materialize back on the ship, Keelah shares a brief glance with the rest of the away team before looking to the transporter chief, “Contact the bridge. Tell Tee I want an encrypted priority channel to command by the time we get up there, and to have the senior staff gather for debriefing”

View AAR

SUBMITTED: Stardate 95070 FILED BY: CAPT K Se'Lai SECURITY: Level 3 - Restricted

LOCATION: Nelaraan System

MISSION: Assist task force with investigation into anomalous conditions recorded in studied supernova.

OUTCOME: Cause found determined but not yet actioned pending resolution of first contact situation with the Nelaraans.

KEY PERSONNEL:

CAPT Nimitz CAPT Se'Lai CAPT Timoreev LCDR al-Firawn LCDR Keliaya LTJG Finney

NARRATIVE: We arrived on site at the supernova alongside the al-Haytham, Attar & Akagi. Following a situational briefing from LCDR al-Firawn a plan was quickly formed to utilize our numbers in the formation of a linked sensor network around the star's perimeter; separating our saucer section to further increase this number. Barring a minor incident which saw the saucer being inexplicably pulled towards the star by an unprecedented build up of gravimetric distortions (which was comfortably corrected for, albeit forcing a premature break of formation), the survey yielded detailed - albeit inconclusive - results. Following reintegration it was decided that the Valley Forge would move to investigate the source of an energy beam which was detected feeding into the star and theorized as being responsible for the anomalous readings, as this would allow the other vessels - more integral to the astrophysics study - to continue their analysis.

Upon arrival at the signal source we quickly identified an artificial orbital platform as being the cause of the energy feed and found ourselves in receipt of communications from the planet before able to study it further. This was an automated greeting, but upon stating our mission the system accepted our presence and guided us through their interplanetary transit lanes to a designated orbital position where we were then invited to transport to the surface. Having detected passive scans of the ship as we approached, I opted for a cautiously optimistic stance of allowing the scans, in turn taking the opportunity to gather all information we could from our own sensors. This data suggested a level of technology equatable to pre-Human First Contact Vulcans.

Arriving on the surface, our away team consisting of the task force CO's was greeted with open arms by a local Governor and a sizable crowd brandishing welcome banners which bore not only a translated welcome message naming the Valley Forge, but also my own likeness. This demonstrated not only the capacity to interpret datastreams of previously unencountered species as they identified not only the ship name but also myself as CO and presumed candidate to be beaming to the surface, but also a remarkable efficiency in preparedness given the brief window for such preparations to be processed and implemented as we approached the planet; a noteworthy commentary on the overall capacity of this species, worthy of due consideration when conducting further assessments.

This cordial greeting was reflected in the demeanor of the Governor who appeared overly eager that we were made to feel welcome; insisting that we be shown to a nearby facility which sounded akin to a tourism welcome centre. Our optimism tentatively bolstered by the positive reception; we obliged and were granted a partial tour of the city in the process. Most notable among observations here was the distinct colour coding of the population; quickly becoming apparent as more than mere racial diversity owing to the absolute consistency of role against colour. At the welcoming centre we were presented refreshments while the Governor proudly educated us on their use of cloning technology in development of what they unequivocally deemed a utopian society, proudly boasting that 'nobody had to work'. I saw I was not the only member of our team to see this as early cause for concern, given the implied lack of recognition for any level of equality when it came to the clones.Diplomatically framed queries and challenges to this cultural belief further bolstered our concerns as the Governor displayed signs of an almost dogmatic mentality.

Building on the rapidly growing air of friendship the Governor was feeling from our professionally courteous team, we moved to inquiring about the orbital platform interacting with the supernova. This resulted in an even prouder display from the Governor as he not only told us of it's nature as a weapon in development, but boasted happily as to how it would be used to assert their dominance over the entire sector. Sensing the immensely delicate situation we were in fact in at this point, I proceeded with an extremely censored diplomatic dialogue, quizzing the Governor about their intent and mentality. This was extremely challenging to uphold but ultimately prevailed as the Governor continued to be most forthcoming with his explanations. He revealed that their enigmatic leader known simply as 'Ace' (who has seemingly been in position for the entire history of the people) has driven their society on this line with a goal of emulating the success of the Federation by forcing their culture upon others they targeted, using this 'ultranova' weapon to force the matter where not openly welcomed.

His aversion to logical counterpoints regarding the application of their goal, and even their capacity to enforce it showed clear signs of indoctrination which made clear that we would not be able to press the discussion further with him. This was used to lever a continued approach of positive first contact as I convinced him to the benefit of a cultural exchange, in light of their reverence for the Federation, and so we reached agreement to share historical information (per standard open greeting protocol, tailored with a focused emphasis on the importance of member states retained freedoms), in exchange for detailed historical accounting's of the Nelaraan people (attached). Further to this, I believe my challenges were enough to at least assert a distinct difference in core belief that the Governor himself could not reconcile. This proved sufficient in convincing the Governor to process a request for us to meet directly with the Ace figurehead, though no timeframe was indicated beyond the clarity that it would not be imminent.

This alarming revelation about the Nelaraan people was tactfully contained by our team as we maintained a highly diplomatic stance which I spearheaded for want of not severing the openness we had obtained. To this end we were further invited to attend a public ceremony celebrating their 'Ace day' - a form of annual recognition for their clone workforce. I took the opportunity to first establish contact with the ship under the rouse of having the cultural exchange files prepared whilst subversively ordering a full tactical analysis of the weapon platform and the Nelaraan fleet (scans attached).

As monotonous as the ceremony was; individually honouring 1000 'Yellows' from what appeared to be a more industrial sector, it was equally enlightening as it led to further insight into this culture and it's relatively juvenile mentality towards lesser lifeforms; namely it's clones. This was made most apparent by the segregation of ~100 Yellows who - at the conclusion of the ceremony - were transferred into a shipping container of sorts for retirement. The Governor - proudly as ever - explained how the clones had a fixed lifespan and those being retired would be recycled as supplement pills that are used to nourish the clone workforce. As disturbing as such a revelation naturally came to our away team, the diplomatic posture was amicably maintained with my reinforcement that it is not our place to prematurely judge another culture by our own standards.

RECOMMENDATION: Provisional assessment indicates this as a culture where technological development has surpassed cultural; a like comparison would be placing red matter technology in the hands of pre-warp Human society during the height of the Eugenics war, or of pre Great Awakening Vulcan society. This is a recognized high threat, not simply for the Hobus level of interplanetary weapon that is in development here, but the cultural immaturity of the people brandishing it. Coupled with the dogmatic philosophy demonstrated I can not over emphasize the need for carefully calculated action.

The al-Haytham has been tasked to remain on station outside the Nelaraan system to monitor the situation, awaiting the presence of a suitably prepared representative who can take the requested meeting with the Nelaraan leader - Ace. Though I hold no desire to see diplomatic efforts fail in containing this situation, I believe that the threat level here warrants preparedness for more decisive action, such preparedness may warrant more intrusive intelligence gathering, at Command discretion. Given what we learned about how the Nelaraan society is almost entirely reliant on it's clone workforce to function; that presents the most tactically viable means to counter any aggressive efforts on their behalf with minimal conflict, and so my recommendation would conclude with any followup efforts - diplomatic or otherwise - focused on learning about this side of their society and identifying any exploitable weakness to subvert their dangerous intent.

ATTACHMENTS:

//Supernova.scn//

//Star System_Nelaraan.ast//

//Cultural database_Federation History.dat//

//Nelaraan Histortical Archive.doc//

//Ultranova Weapons Platform.scn//

//Nelaraan Fleet Analysis.scn//