ST:TTV502 | "Bark"
Updated: Mar 18
Stardate 97012.3
The crew of the Valley Forge must face their first truly confrontational first contact when they venture into the hunting grounds of the Lupan...
View Prologue
Analyst@anncarise FX | A turbolift door opens and the suited Regulator Analyst strides through. Some of the crew give her passing glances, but most seem accustomed to her presence due to the time spent with them - Analyst@anncarise - during the Judgement, despite the intimidating look of their gear. T'Pia@crystyll almost bumps into the Analyst as she exits a nondescript side room, with a slight involuntary yelp, "Oops! Sorry..." Analyst@anncarise comes to a halt as TP nearly bumps into her, "No need to apologize. It can be tight quarters on a ship, and you do not have a helmet with sensor display." T'Pia@crystyll giggles at the seemingly obscure observation, "That's... very true, I don't have one of those! You must be the analyst, right?" Analyst@anncarise nods, "That's correct. I don't believe I've encountered you before." T'Pia@crystyll: "Definitely not! I would remember meeting someone so unique among the crew! I'm T'Pia" she offers with a smile Analyst@anncarise: "I am Analyst 9135-422-016. I have been on your vessel during the Judgement, but I have only been assigned here for an extended period of time recently." T'Pia@crystyll: "Analyst 9135-422-..." she sighs, "That's quite the mouthful. Don't you have a name?" Analyst@anncarise: "We have given names, but we do not use them. Among the crew we do make use of informal names in unofficial address." T'Pia@crystyll: "Well, it's just a suggestion of course... but you might want to consider something more informal like that here, now that you're sticking around" Analyst@anncarise: "I am the only Analyst here, so addressing me by Analyst will suffice. Among our own vessels, I am often called Vulture." T'Pia@crystyll: "Ooh Vulture, I like it! But... if 'Analyst' is preferred, then that is what I shall call you!" she chirps happily Analyst@anncarise: "Either will do. I am used to being addressed by both." T'Pia@crystyll: "Well... most people around here have a dual address form also in rank and name. I see many officers go by rank when on duty, but by name when not. You might a compromise like that helps blend with + T'Pia@crystyll: + social conformity on a Starfleet vessel" Analyst@anncarise: "Ah yes, your people have similar customs in distinguishing between when one is on duty and when one is not." Analyst@anncarise: "It is easy to tell among Regulators. We are in our suits when we are working, and outside when we are not." T'Pia@crystyll: "Often the case here, though there is quite a lot of crossover. Most easy to tell by the location really, like if someone is in one of the lounges - you know they are off duty" Analyst@anncarise: "Quite similar to our own vessels, though we are exclusively off-duty when we are outside our suits. Though we may rest while in our suits, we are expected to maintain constant vigilance." T'Pia@crystyll: "There's a lot to be said for the concisiveness of a more regimented attitude" she smiles Analyst@anncarise: "Indeed. Fortunately, the technology of the suits helps. It is always monitoring my surroundings, even if I am asleep." Analyst@anncarise deactivates her helmet, "And if it detects a threat, it will automatically engage safety protocols." T'Pia@crystyll: "Wait... you can even sleep is those suits?" Analyst@anncarise: "Yes. I have actually never taken it off on this vessel before...never on any foreign vessel." Analyst@anncarise: "As the Judgement is over and this is a long-term assignment, I am permitted to be off-duty while on your vessel, unlike previously." T'Pia@crystyll: "That must get pretty, um... fresh in there after a while..." she chuckles, "But hey, yeah! Now you're staying you can start to enjoy off-duty time with us! I would curious to see Regulator fashion + T'Pia@crystyll: + beyond the suits!" Analyst@anncarise: "We are just organic beings without the suits. Though many other species tend to find our physical forms attractive." T'Pia@crystyll: "Something to do with that shared Orion heritage?" T'Pia@crystyll smiles, "Lennie told me about a theory of some distant relation between your species!" Analyst@anncarise smiles back, "You are well informed! Yes, that is indeed the case." Analyst@anncarise: "I imagine I will have to create a device that shields you from pheromones without the suit, like what Lennie possesses. It is not an issue among our own people, but it can have quite an effect - Analyst@anncarise: - on others." T'Pia@crystyll: "Oh, right! Yes, if your pheromones are anything like hers then we don't want that now! But Starfleet is used to working with Orions now, so I'm sure Kazra should easily be able to accomodate you" Analyst@anncarise: "I will be able to design something easily. Such technology is my speciality. But I will speak to Kazra and see what your doctor may know." Analyst@anncarise: "She must be quite experienced working among such a diverse group." T'Pia@crystyll: "Since you are here as more than a temporary guest, I believe protocol requires her familiarity with your physiology anyway. In case of emergency and such" Analyst@anncarise nods, "I'll make sure to see her then. For the moment, it may be best for me to keep the suit active." T'Pia@crystyll: "Which in itself presents an interesting dilemma of the same context, when you think about it" Analyst@anncarise: "Oh?" T'Pia@crystyll: "I mean like, our doctor has to know how to treat you in case of injury, right. So given the heavy use of your suit, do you need to train someone else on board to provide technical support in the + T'Pia@crystyll: + event you are incapacited? If so, how does that work with your rules about technology. I know from my mum that's kind of a big deal for you" she smiles Analyst@anncarise: "Our suits have basic aid functions. Should more in depth medical intervention be required, removal of the suit is not difficult." T'Pia@crystyll: "Yeah but, what happens if the suit itself becomes damaged in some way as well?" T'Pia@crystyll: "After all, if something occurred that was sufficient to damage you within the suit, it is only logical to assume damage to the suit too, right?" Analyst@anncarise: "That is true. However, it would be against regulations to instruct any of your crew on how to operate the suit, and even if I were to do so, it would be very difficult, if not impossible, to remove - Analyst@anncarise: - it without using similar technology." T'Pia@crystyll: "Then you see my point of curiosity" she chuckles Analyst@anncarise: "Under such a scenario, I suppose I will have to hope that the self-destruct is still operational. Or better yet, hope such a scenario never comes to pass." T'Pia@crystyll: "Wait... self destruct?" Analyst@anncarise: "It is against regulation to allow our technology to fall into another's hands. It is not a built-in weapon that can be taken advantage of, but by utilizing the suit in a certain way, it can be made - Analyst@anncarise: - to destroy itself." T'Pia@crystyll: "Hopefully not taking you with it..." T'Pia@crystyll: "Well, this took a distinctly morose turn didn't it... anyway, I shouldn't keep you. You're probably busy with things anyway..." Analyst@anncarise: "I am not currently in the midst of anything. In such a time I would normally exit my suit, but as I have not yet created the device to shield my pheromones from you yet..." T'Pia@crystyll: "Well if you like, I could take you to Kazra now! I'm sure she will have something appropriate, even if it won't be what Lennie uses. Then we can back to your off duty fashion!" Analyst@anncarise: "That sounds amenable. Lead the way!" T'Pia@crystyll beams happily, leading them back to the turbolift, "Great!" T'Pia@crystyll: "Have you met Kazra- I mean, Commander Meel - yet?" Analyst@anncarise: "Only in passing. I have primarily worked with Commander Lendaria." T'Pia@crystyll smiles, "Aah, right! Well if you like one, you're sure to like the other I think!" T'Pia@crystyll peeks into sickbay, "Doctor?" T'Pia@crystyll FX | The EMH materializes, "Please state the nature of the medical emergency" T'Pia@crystyll: "Oh! Um... no emergency, actually. I was ju-..." T'Pia@crystyll | EMH cuts her off: "Then /why/ have you activated my program then, young lady?" T'Pia@crystyll: "I was just looking for Dr. Meel!" T'Pia@crystyll | EMH recoils a little, "Oh. Well then... If my services are not required I'll just... go. Offline... and wait quietly. With nobody to talk to..." T'Pia@crystyll eyerolls with a smirk, "Oooor... you could help us, if Kazra if unavailable. Wouldn't want you getting bored now, after all" T'Pia@crystyll | EMH narrows his eyes on TP for a moment before stepping close and scrutinizing her, "I detect nothing wrong with you" T'Pia@crystyll: "Oh, it's not me! It's my friend here. She ju-..." T'Pia@crystyll | EMH cuts her off again, stepping past and scrutinizing Vulture, "Well I see nothing wrong with you either!" T'Pia@crystyll: "Doctor! Please just... let us explain?" Analyst@anncarise: "You have interesting constructs." T'Pia@crystyll | EMH hrmphs with dissatisfaction, grumbling, "...could at least have brought me a new microbacteria to look at. Very well, what is it you need of me?" T'Pia@crystyll: "You think he's colourful, you should meet Mia!" T'Pia@crystyll | EMH: "And whilst /he/ may be a simple holographic construct. /He/ is still standing right before you and would appreciate not being spoken about like he is not here" T'Pia@crystyll looks down ashamedly, "Sorry Doctor, I didn't mean to... but anyway! My friend here..." looks to Vulture to explain her requirements Analyst@anncarise: "I have met Mia! That is why I think your constructs have rather distinct personalities." T'Pia@crystyll: "Oh well Mia is an entirely unique evolution of her kind!" T'Pia@crystyll | EMH grumbles something under his breath Analyst@anncarise: "As for why I am here, I require a device to block the emission of pheromones in lieu of my suit." T'Pia@crystyll glances to him, "...but our EMH here is highly advanced, as a pure holographic lifeform. Since Starfleet discovered the benefits of long term runtime for them, many crews have attempted to better + T'Pia@crystyll: + develop their EMH's into more unique individuals, finding desirable results. Just like us with how much we love our EMH!" she grins up to him T'Pia@crystyll | EMH grumbles again at TP's transparent attempt to curry favour before looking back to Vulture, "Pheromone suppression. You don't look Orion, or is that just a very deep suntan..." Analyst@anncarise chuckles, "No, I am not Orion, though our peoples share many traits. From my research, a device that functions for Orions should function the same way for me." T'Pia@crystyll | EMH frowns, "I'll be the judge of that. If you are not the same species then we must first fully understand your physiology. If you'll just step over here, we can begin the first full bio-" T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra steps in, "Computer, deactivate EMH..." T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra steps over with a smile, "Apologies, he tends to ge a bit... overzealous. You must be our new resident Analyst, I was hoping you'd stop by" Analyst@anncarise smiles, "That I am. And yes, your constructs have fascinating quirks." T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra, "Not all of them. But those who evolve to exist more as members of the crew are encouraged in that regards. So you were saying about pheromone suppression. Did you have a preferred method + T'Pia@crystyll: + in mind? We have a few options that should suit your biology" she speaks, leading her through to get a proper scan T'Pia@crystyll just pitches up on a chair out of the way for the moment Analyst@anncarise exits her suit as Kazra gets ready to scan her, the front pieces simply sliding open and allowing her to step out. The suit stands on its own behind her, and underneath she dons a - Analyst@anncarise - tight black undersuit that clings to her form perfectly. Her figure is that of the stereotypical Orion female but slightly more heavy built, and if she were green she would easily pass as Orion. T'Pia@crystyll watches in awe of the slimline power armour T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra runs a medical tricorder over her, "So as I was saying, there are two methods typically adopted by our Orion personnel. The first is a suppressive implant, though some prefer a chemical + T'Pia@crystyll: + method which can be applied via a subdermal patch. I assume from these readings that your suit normally provides this functionality?" Analyst@anncarise: "That's correct. It is not common for Regulators to have implants unless it is due to an injury, but I must admit I am interested in your designs." Analyst@anncarise: "Implants are my primary field of research, after all." T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra smiles, "Well I'd be happy to share what I know on them, though I suspect Lendaria would be a better source as she lived - miserably - with our implants for most of her life before switching+ T'Pia@crystyll: + to her current one. If I may ask, do you anticipate problems with your suits capacity to provide this function long term now?" Analyst@anncarise: "No, but an alternative method will allow me to exit the suit for extended periods of time without negatively impacting your people." T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra: "Aah, then I would not recommend pursuing one of our implants as that would be more of a permanent fix. If you desire total freedom, I can provide you with the subdermal inhibitor. You may + T'Pia@crystyll: + find it unsettling for a period while you adjust, as it will artificially regulate your pheromone production. If you are content with more ad-hoc measures, I can offer a simple hypo that should + T'Pia@crystyll: + afford you short periods of freedom; approximately 12hours per hypo" Analyst@anncarise: "The inhibitor sounds like an amenable option. What would be the effects you describe as unsettling?" T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra: "Your body will not be producing pheromones as it is used to. So you can expect to experience mood swings, maybe periods of dizziness and loss of appetite, intermittently for the first week or so" T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra: "Once your body has adjusted, you should feel generally as normal, though with a reduced libido and overall energy level" Analyst@anncarise: "And does the hypo not have such effects, or have similar effects but only within the time span?" T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra: "The hypo works differently, providing an antibody of sorts that neutralizes the pheromones produced. The upshot is that you will not experience the same side effects as the more permanent solutions" Analyst@anncarise nods, "The hypo may be preferable, then. I do not anticipate being out of the suit and in an open environment for more than 12 hours at a time." Analyst@anncarise: "Are there any side effects to more frequent use of the hypo?" T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra smiles: "Makes sense to me. Won't be but a moment then" and turns to prepare it, "I would not recommend use indefinitely, treatments like this tend to encourage natural resistances over time" Analyst@anncarise: "That is true. I will make a habit of not overusing it, and if a more long-term solution is required, I will be sure to seek you out again." T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra nods as she applies the hypo, "This is a weaker solution to start you with, so try not to push it too far. Once we have a better measure of it's effect on your specific physiology we can + T'Pia@crystyll: + tailor your dosage more accordingly" Analyst@anncarise nods back and smiles, "Thank you. It must not be an easy task, having to deal with so many physiologies." T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra chuckles, "That's why we have databases" Analyst@anncarise: "But you do not have heads-up displays to feed you information constantly. You would have to pause to access the data, or remember some of it." T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra: "Correct, we rely on a combination of retention and live lookup. The latter is seldom relied upon in the midst of treatment, but can be verbalized by the computer or further interpreted if + T'Pia@crystyll: + needed by the EMH" T'Pia@crystyll hrms, "I should look at HUD elements more in my designs..." Analyst@anncarise: "We are expected to know information as well, especially that pertaining to our main areas of focus, but we often rely on our displays." T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra: "Naturally. Well, you're all set here. I'd still like you to drop by for a basic medical at your convenience, but there is no rush right now on that" Analyst@anncarise: "I will return soon. You may collect as much medical data as you need, we have no regulations against others obtaining biological information." T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra nods, "I would offer to assist you acclimatize to life on board, but I see you have already found our resident ambassador" T'Pia@crystyll giggles Analyst@anncarise chuckles, "She has certainly been very helpful." T'Pia@crystyll | Kazra: "Well I shall leave you in her capable hands. You know where to find me if needed" she smiles before returning to her office Analyst@anncarise steps back into her suit and it closes up, though the helmet stays deactivated, "I will return to my sleeping room to place my suit there and find something else to wear other than the undersuit." T'Pia@crystyll: "If you like, we can meet up after to compare styles!" Analyst@anncarise: "There are many interesting styles here, especially what Lennie has. I am curious to see what you prefer." T'Pia@crystyll: "Always happy to help!" Analyst@anncarise smiles, "I will see you after I find something to wear, then." T'Pia@crystyll: "Can't wait!"
View Episode
Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The Valley Forge cruises in uncharted space, now clear of the Regulated Zone... Ann Carter@anncarise sits as the helm while Lieutenant Gwi of stellar cartography occupies the seat next to her. Ann Carter@anncarise | Gwi: "So now we get to explore where we want, no Regulators telling us where we should and shouldn't go." Ann Carter@anncarise | Gwi: "We have so many choices too..." Ann Carter@anncarise: "Hey, we still got a mission to stick to. Plus, the Regulators might be real tight with their rules, but ya gotta say they know how to keep their space safe." Ann Carter@anncarise | Gwi: "Safe? You nearly got blown out of the sky by a Nuhar construct!" Ann Carter@anncarise: "An' they shielded our shuttle, didn't they? Not like we didn't have our own share o' trouble with the constructs outside their territory either. But everythin' else, real nice an' quiet." Ann Carter@anncarise | Gwi: "If I wanted nice and quiet, I would've taken a job with Daystrom. Out here, you don't know what you'll find tomorrow." Ann Carter@anncarise: "We still didn't know wha' we were gonna find in Regulated space." Ann Carter@anncarise: "I like to have a lil bit o' adventure now an' again too. I ain't one for doin' desk jobs. But trust me, tha' feelin' of safety ya get in the Federation core an' in Regulated Zones, tha's somethin' - Ann Carter@anncarise: - precious. Somethin' a lotta folks in the galaxy don't get." Keelah@crystyll | TQ peers over with a smirk, "Nobody ever tell you to be careful what you wish for, lieutenant?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Gwi chuckles, "I've heard that saying a few times, yeah..." Keelah@crystyll | Silvestrie: "Ensign Carter has a point. Keeping the folks back home safe is why we're out here after all" Ann Carter@anncarise: "Well, dunno if ya wish just came true or if ya just jinxed us, but we got a ship on sensors." Ann Carter@anncarise | Gwi: "I see it too. Make that plural, looks like one strong signature and two smaller ones, probably escorts." Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "Totally jinxed us" Ann Carter@anncarise: "They're on an intercept course..." Ann Carter@anncarise | Thorkildsen: "Looks like they're flying with shields raised. Still at long range sensor distance, but so far our computers can't ID the signatures from anything in our database." Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Drop warp and hold position for the moment." He taps his console. "Vrolmacht to Captain Se'Lai." Keelah@crystyll: <C> Go ahead Ann Carter@anncarise: "Holdin' position." Ann Carter@anncarise | <C - Vrolmacht> "We have unidentified signatures inbound on an intercept course." Keelah@crystyll: <C> On my way Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht looks across to TQ in the meantime, "Tee, try to hail them." Keelah@crystyll | TQ nods, "Broadcasting general greeting on all frequencies" Keelah@crystyll | TQ shakes her head after a moment, "No response" Keelah@crystyll enters the bridge to hear TQ's report, "What is our status?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "We are holding position for the moment. The ships are still inbound." Ann Carter@anncarise | Gwi: "Five minutes until they reach us at their current speed." Keelah@crystyll: "Sensor readings on the unknown vessels?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Thorkildsen: "We're getting more detailed scan results now. Still no positive ID, but they're quite heavily armed. Multiple disruptor arrays, torpedo tubes and ablative armour plating." Ann Carter@anncarise | Thorkildsen: "The large one I'd class as a battlecruiser, the two smaller ones are more comparable to Klingon birds of prey. All with shields raised." Keelah@crystyll: "Tee, give me an open channel and get our Regulator guest up here. Maybe she will recognize them. Mr. Vrolmacht... yellow alert" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Going to yellow alert, Captain." Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "Channel open" Keelah@crystyll: "Unknown vessels, I am Captain Keelah of the Federation vessel; Valley Forge on a mission of peaceful exploration. State your intent" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | A series of growls can be heard in reply, followed by...what sounds like a howl. A second howl joins in, then a third, until the comms line is nothing but one symphony of howling. Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Captain, they are charging weapons." Keelah@crystyll cringes a little at the impact on her poor sensetive ears, "Tee, any luck with the translator?" Keelah@crystyll: "Red alert! Back us off Ms Carter, nice and gentle. Let's show willing" Keelah@crystyll | TQ shakes her head despondently, "It's having difficulty locking into any known syntax" Ann Carter@anncarise: "Aye aye, Cap'n." Keelah@crystyll: "Then get Lendaria up here too" Ann Carter@anncarise | Gwi: "They have dropped out of warp about 100,000 kilometres away." Keelah@crystyll: "On screen" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | A large, imposing ship appears on the viewscreen... Ann Carter@anncarise | https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/starcraft/images/a/a8/Moros_SC2-HotS_Art1.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20130618132855 Ann Carter@anncarise | Two small, more aerodynamically shaped ones zoom by it as they head for the Valley Forge. Keelah@crystyll: "Tactical analysis Mr Vrolmacht" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "It appears to be a heavily armed carrier, not a battleship. From the size of its hangars, I suspect the escort craft are launched from it. We may be capable of matching the carrier - Ann Carter@anncarise: - but with the assistance of the raiders they have a significant advantage." Keelah@crystyll | Lendaria arrives and takes her station, working with TQ to analyse the communication Ann Carter@anncarise | Gwi: "They're closing in..." Ann Carter@anncarise | The Analyst exits the lift behind Lennie, her helmet activated. Keelah@crystyll: "Hold position and stand ready for evasive. We will not be the ones to initiate a confrontation" she looks to the lift, "Aah, Analyst-" gestures to the screen, "-recognize these at all?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "The vessels have begin firing a disruptor cannon barrage!" Keelah@crystyll: "Evasive pattern delta-2!" Keelah@crystyll: "Return fire, take their weapons out" Ann Carter@anncarise: "Goin' evasive!" Ann Carter@anncarise | The bridge shakes slightly as several shots still end up landing. Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Returning fire with phaser banks...the shields of the carrier is quite formidible. Switching targets to raiders to drive them off..." Keelah@crystyll: "Shield status?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Thorkildsen: "Eighty percent!" Ann Carter@anncarise | Analyst: "That is a Lupan pack. Your vessel will not survive the encounter, not without taking significant damage." Keelah@crystyll: "Tee, put a priority call out to the QanwI'. Mr Vrolmacht, is LT Baelai's defensive wing on standby?" Ann Carter@anncarise | The Analyst reaches out her hand and a datapad flies into her grasp from Thorkildsen's station. Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Defensive wing is standing by, they have been preparing ever since the ships appeared on sensors with shields active." Keelah@crystyll nods, "Launch with orders to run interference against the raiders" Ann Carter@anncarise | The Analyst meanwhile taps the PADD before levitating it to TQ. Ann Carter@anncarise | Analyst: "Contact this frequency. It is your best chance." Keelah@crystyll | TQ fumbles to catch the suprise floating PADD and looks to Keelah Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Defensive wing is launched." Keelah@crystyll nods to proceed, looking to Vulture, "Care to explain?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vulture: "We are outside the Regulated Zone. The Watchers are the only protection you will have out here." Ann Carter@anncarise | On the viewscreen, the Eon and the runabouts try to keep the raiders off the VF while the ship focuses fire back on the carrier. Keelah@crystyll: "I prefer not to rely on anyone for 'protection', not least a group I know nothing about" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "They are launching what appear to be fighters to engage our squadron." Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The bridge shakes again. Ann Carter@anncarise | Thorkildsen: "Shields at sixty percent!" Keelah@crystyll: "Attack pattern Kappa-9" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vulture: "I do not particularly approve of the Watchers' ways, but you will need additional support if you wish to depart this confrontation with your vessel in good condition." Keelah@crystyll: "Keep dorsal and ventral phasers on suppressive fire. Protect our ships" Ann Carter@anncarise: "QanwI' should be inbound in a minute!" Keelah@crystyll looks back to Vulture, "We will see if they respond. But we are not without support of our own" Keelah@crystyll FX | In typical fashion, the QanwI' decloaks at point blank range on one of the raiders, opening fire with everything it has Ann Carter@anncarise | Vulture: "They will assist, but they will expect payment in return. However, I calculate your losses will be far greater if you continue to face the Lupan without support." Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The raider doesn't have time to react and goes up in a bright explosion! Keelah@crystyll glances back to Vulture, almost smug - if she wasn't Vulcan - "As I said, we are not without means" Ann Carter@anncarise | The Analyst tilts her head as she observes the QanwI's attack with interest. Keelah@crystyll | TQ: Incoming hail Captain. It's the QanwI'" she taps, putting it on screen Keelah@crystyll smiles, "Captain Vix. Your timing is impeccible as always" Keelah@crystyll | Lexi leans forward in her chair, fists rested firm on it's sides and grinning, "You finally find a decent fight out here and think we're going to miss it?!" she laughs, barking orders Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The other raider turns around and tries to chase off the QanwI'. Ann Carter@anncarise | Meanwhile, the carrier continues firing on the VF as its fighters engage Eon and the runabouts around the ship. Keelah@crystyll | Lexi: "Glorious!" Ann Carter@anncarise | The bridge shakes again, and the lights flicker this time for a moment. Keelah@crystyll: "Captain Vix, focus on that second raider and protect our support craft" Ann Carter@anncarise | Thorkildsen: "Shields at thirty percent!" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "One of the runabouts have lost shields and are breaking off." Keelah@crystyll | Lexi nods, "Qapla'!" and disappears Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "The carrier's shields have just dropped beneath fifty percent." Keelah@crystyll: "Bring them back in, I'm not losing anyone today" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | On the viewscreen, an enemy fighter explodes from the Eon's fire. Keelah@crystyll checks her panel, "Helm, bring us to bearing 284 mark 5. Focus the forward banks on that weakened shield and fire at will" Ann Carter@anncarise taps her console, "On it, Cap'n!" Ann Carter@anncarise: "An' we're in position!" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Firing!" Ann Carter@anncarise | The Valley Forge's forward phasers concentrate on the carrier's weakened shield... Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Their shields have dropped to ten percent! They are on the retreat!" Keelah@crystyll: "Their support craft?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "The remaining raider and fighters are breaking off and heading back to their carrier." Keelah@crystyll: "Order all vessels to hold position. Recall the Eon's wing" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Yes Captain." Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "Captain, I have an incoming hail from the enemy flagship. Putting it through" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | An image forms on the viewscreen: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/39/e1/c8/39e1c8435be05d55f3c65aa8b4e88f0d.jpg Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The dialogue comes through in snarls and growls at first, but with Lennie's help, the translation soon comes through... Ann Carter@anncarise | Alien: "You have sharp teeth. It has been some time since we hunted someone that can bite back." Keelah@crystyll: "I would prefer we didn't have to bite at all. We have no desire for conflict with you, and I am sure the galaxy is big enough for both of us if we can just find some mutual ground on which to get + Keelah@crystyll: + along" Ann Carter@anncarise | Alien: "But you have shiny tools. We will find other prey. We will recoup our losses. Then we will meet again." Keelah@crystyll considers a moment, "...we do not have to be enemies. You have already seen a taste of our sharp teeth, why circle each other snarling when there is more worthy prey for us all to face" Ann Carter@anncarise | Alien: "I serve the pack. The pack serves me. I will make no alliances with outlanders. I will take what I want. Your ship will be mine. So swears Akinul, First of the Ozkurak Pack!" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The comm cuts. Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Their support craft have all docked with the carrier." Keelah@crystyll perks a brow at the abrupt cutoff, "Nice to meet you too, Akinul..." Ann Carter@anncarise FX | On the viewscreen, the carrier jumps away to warp. Keelah@crystyll: "Stand down to yellow alert and secure all stations. Damage report all decks" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vulture: "You have survived an encounter with a Lupan pack. Impressive." Keelah@crystyll dips her head, "High praise indeed" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vulture: "Most civilizations of your level requires help from the Watchers, or travel in larger numbers." Ann Carter@anncarise | Thorkildsen: "No major damage to the ship, Captain, but Chief Sullivan reports that Runabout Delaware will be out of commission for at least a week." Keelah@crystyll: "Thank you Mr Thorkilsden. Please have the Chief pass on my hearty congratulations to LT Baelia for a successful first deployment" Ann Carter@anncarise | Thorkildsen: "I'll let him know. There's two injured in sickbay, one from a fall and the other from a minor conduit breach. Both minor." Keelah@crystyll looks back to Vulture, "Fortunately, venturing into the unknown and faces such circumstances... and adapting to them, is our speciality" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vulture nods as her helmet slides back, "It seems we have underestimated your abilities." Keelah@crystyll: "Or perhaps more specifically, our ingenuity in their application" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vulture: "Indeed. I calculated based primarily on your technological capabilities. I suppose that's why I'm an Analyst and not an Evaluator." Keelah@crystyll smiles, "One of the benefits of these officer exchange setups is the two-way learning streak" Keelah@crystyll: "Mr Vrolmacht, maintain yellow alert and long range tactical scans. Helm, resume course" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vulture smiles back, "I cannot agree more." Ann Carter@anncarise: "Resumin' course, Cap'n." Keelah@crystyll looks to TQ & Lennie, "Good job on the translation, ladies. Inform Captain Vix her presence is required for a situation briefing and to remain in formation" Keelah@crystyll | TQ nods and sends the message -------------- Keelah@crystyll strolls into the conference room once all senior staff, Lexi & Vulture are gathered Keelah@crystyll takes her seat, looking around the table, "First off, let me just again repeat my praise to you all for the efficient responses and professional handling of today's situation" Keelah@crystyll: "Now, with that said... we appear to be facing our first outwardly confrontational society out here. Any opening observations based on todays events?" Keliaya@anncarise | Silvestrie looks to Vulture: "These Lupan packs, you know of them?" Keliaya@anncarise | Vulture: "Yes. We have had encounters with them, most of which proceeded much like what happened today." Keliaya@anncarise | Silvestrie: "Isn't that enough cause for, you know..." Keliaya@anncarise | Vulture: "Regulator intervention? Yes, we do regulate some of them. The ones we are able to successfully detain." Keelah@crystyll: "I would surmise that more forced colonies like the Forli one we encountered may well exist as a result of said action?" Keliaya@anncarise | Vulture: "That is correct. Lupan in their natural state are a nomadic people, however. They have been spread out ever since we first encountered them, and they do not settle permanently on any - Keliaya@anncarise: - world. That makes creating a Regulated Zone for their entire civilization difficult. We can only deal with those that cross into pre-established Regulated Zones." Keelah@crystyll: "Understandable. My impression from our brief dialogue is a tribal culture, so arrangements made with one 'pack' would hold no meaning with others" Keliaya@anncarise | Vulture: "Indeed. In our experience, the packs crew one ship each, though larger ones may have escort or auxiliary craft as you have seen." Keelah@crystyll: "What about these 'Watchers' you mentioned before?" Keliaya@anncarise | Vulture: "They are one of the many mercenary groups in this region, though some see them more as vigilantes. Unlike other mercenaries, they are not hired in conventional ways." Keelah@crystyll: "How so?" Keliaya@anncarise | Vulture: "They respond to calls for help, largely in fending off Lupan packs, raiders or other mercenary groups. They see themselves as more moral than other mercenaries, but they expect to be - Keliaya@anncarise: - paid for their good deeds." Keelah@crystyll: "Interesting. The two groups appear to evolved an almost symbiotic relationship in that regard" Keliaya@anncarise | Vulture: "It seems quite likely. There were other threats in the region previously, such as the Toroki, before the Colonial Fleet took care of them." Keliaya@anncarise | Vulture: "You are not near the New World and their vassals yet, however, and this is not Regulated space, so we possess no Arrays here. If there is danger, the Watchers are the only - Keliaya@anncarise: - support likely to answer." Keelah@crystyll | Lexi: "Not the /only/ ones, thank you! And unlike your 'Watchers', we are honourable allies!" Keelah@crystyll nods, "Of course. The QanwI' should remain cloaked in close formation while we are within this mercenary territory" Keliaya@anncarise | Vulture: "A sensible precaution. There are few large civilizations in this territory, while mercenaries and raiders do not claim it, they frequently operate within." Keelah@crystyll: "Understandable given the lack of established authority here. Well, we can only react to the circumstances as presented. I expect all departments to provide analysis reports for 0800" Keelah@crystyll: "Tactical, technical, cultural & biological. We will maintain our heightened alert status indefinitely, but the next time one of these packs presents itself, I expect us to have a more considered + Keelah@crystyll: + response ready" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "I'm looking through our scans of their ships already. I'll have a full report of what we've seen of their technology soon." Keelah@crystyll looks to Vulture, "I am aware that this is not the purpose for which you are with us, so I will not outright ask you for information. That said, should you feel in a position to assist any of our + Keelah@crystyll: + teams with their preparedness, please feel free to report to them at your discretion" Keliaya@anncarise | Vulture: "I can assist you with the technological Analysis and provide what cultural details I know of them. While it is not my primary purpose, as a Regulator, I cannot allow your ship to fall - Keliaya@anncarise: - into the possession of a Lupan pack. And if it is destroyed in combat instead, well...even our suits cannot sustain us in vacuum indefinitely." Keelah@crystyll smiles a little, "I'll take that as a vote of confidence in our collaborative methods. Alright everyone, if there is nothing more... dismissed"
View AAR
AFTER ACTION REPORT STARFLEET SECURITY CLEARANCE LEVEL 2 | Confidential
FILED BY
CAPT Se'Lai
ON STARDATE
97012.3
LOCATION
KEY PERSONNEL
Sectors V-012
CAPT Se'Lai
LCDR Keliaya
LCDR Lendaria
LCDR Vrolmacht
LT Gwi
LT Thorkilsden
FLT Bailai
ENS Carter
CPO T'Quila
CAPT Vix
ANA Vulture
MISSION PARAMETERSOUTCOME SUMMARYDefensive response to unprovoked attack by unidentified vessels. Vessel defended with minimal damage & a small number of minor injuries. Runabout Delaware decommissioned pending repairs, estimated at 1 week.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Active alert status being maintained whilst in territory frequented by the Lupan. Early analysis to be conducted by all shipboard departments.
NARRATIVE
Whilst cruising at low warp through Sector V-012, the Valley Forge was approached by three vessels of unknown origin that were assuming an attack posture. Initial communications attempts failed and the universal translator was at first unable to interpret the language. After the vessels initiated an attack, we entered into defensive maneuvering and recalled the QanwI' to assist. Our Regulator attache was also called to the bridge at this time in the hopes of identifying our assailants. She provided a positive ID as 'Lupan' and advised on the Regulators problematic efforts in dealing with them as a known aggressive species.
As the combat continued, the Analyst provided details of a group she called the 'Watchers' with a recommendation that we call upon them for assistance, though with a further warning that would demand payment for their services. Further analysis of the situation has revealed that we are transitioning into a region of space which remains unclaimed by any recognized faction and as such remains rife with pirate and mercenary activity. While the Lupan definitely fall under the former, the Watchers may be best described as Vigilantes based on what we have been told of them. No contact has been established with the Watchers at this time in order to verify reported information.
Given the challenging nature of the combat, our defensive wing of Runabouts - led by the Eon - was also called into play for the first time since LT Baelai proposed the arrangement. The wing deployment and coordination was executed in line with expected standards and made noteworthy contributions against the Lupan aggressors. The QanwI's heavy firepower also proved essential during this time.
With it's escort vessels destroyed, the attacking flagship - a heavily armoured carrier vessel - retreated and recalled it's support craft, at which point I ordered our forces to disengage. This prompted a further communication from the fleeing vessel in which we were greeted by it's commanding officer, one 'Akinul, First of the Ozkurak Pack' who proceeded to complement us on our victory. Albeit adding a threat to return once his forces were sufficiently replenished, expressing a desire to forcibly seize the Valley Forge.