ST:TTV510 | "Prey"

Stardate 97245.4

Just when the crew of Valley Forge can see light at the end of the proverbial tunnel in the form of the border to Arshai territory, an old acquaintance returns to make good on a promise. Or was it a threat...

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Keliaya@anncarise FX | A group of at least a dozen Lupan are gathered in a large, traditional-looking room. The walls are made from stone bricks, or at least are given the appearance of such, and are adorned with - Keliaya@anncarise: - various hunting trophies. A firepit forms the centrepiece, surrounded by long tables. Keliaya@anncarise | The door to the room swings open and a grey-furred Lupan strides inside: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/39/e1/c8/39e1c8435be05d55f3c65aa8b4e88f0d.jpg Keliaya@anncarise | Almost immediately, the room falls silent and all eyes turn to the new arrival. Two Lupan step out from the rest, one with yellow-brown fur and the other with black fur. Keliaya@anncarise | Lupan 1: “Once again the Ozkurak Pack bites off more than it can chew, and Akinul comes scampering back for help.” Keliaya@anncarise | Akinul: “This prey has teeth. It is beyond any of our packs alone, Basazim. That is why I come here.” Keliaya@anncarise | The yellow-brown furred Lupan huffs, “We have yet to see about that. We have only your word for it.” Keliaya@anncarise | Akinul: “I have information on this ship. See for your-” Keliaya@anncarise | Basazim steps up right in front of Akinul, the two Lupan almost snout to snout, “You are weak, Akinul. But what sickens me is that none of your pack has usurped you yet." Keliaya@anncarise | Basazim gives a low, threatening growl, "Perhaps it is time for new blood to take over. I have long awaited a chance to-" Keliaya@anncarise | A gravelly voice sounds from deeper inside the structure, “Let him speak, brother.” Keliaya@anncarise Sound FX | https://youtu.be/YwIVs_F2kMo Keliaya@anncarise | The doors on the far side from the entrance opens and a large Lupan walks through. He stands taller than any other Lupan in the room and his body is covered with marks of battle. - Keliaya@anncarise - His black coat is mottled with patches damaged from energy burns, which has caused the fur to grow irregularly. A long gash where no fur grows at all can be seen across his chest, and - Keliaya@anncarise: - three claw marks run down one side of his face and over where his right eye used to be, not unlike General Martok's scar. Keliaya@anncarise | The large battle-scarred Lupan pushes the others aside as he makes his way to the front, and some of the Lupan even step back to let him through. Akinul drops to all fours at his approach. Keliaya@anncarise | Akinul: “Salahan Basatul.” Keliaya@anncarise | Basatul: “Show me this prey that bested you.” Keliaya@anncarise | Akinul stands back up and takes out a small holoprojector, activating a hologram of a familiar ship: https://i.imgur.com/09Frs0Fl.jpg Keliaya@anncarise | Basatul: “Hrm.” Keliaya@anncarise | Akinul: “It is a powerful ship, Salahan, despite its more...aesthetic appearance.” Keliaya@anncarise | Basatul: “What is it? Colonial Fleet?” Keliaya@anncarise | Akinul: “No, but easily as advanced, if not more so. Its technology is different from what we have and that will grant us an advantage over the other pa-” Keliaya@anncarise | Basatul: “...us?” Keliaya@anncarise | Akinul: “It was the Ozkurak Pack who found this ship.” Keliaya@anncarise | Basatul: “And you failed to capture it.” Keliaya@anncarise | Akinul: “My ship has the sensor information, including its last heading. Let us in on the prize and we will track and find-” Keliaya@anncarise | Basatul suddenly pounces at Akinul before he could react. The two tumble to the ground and the smaller Lupan struggles for a moment but is quickly pinned down. Keliaya@anncarise | Basatul clamps his jaw down on Akinul’s shoulder, eliciting a howl of pain from the other Lupan. Akinul taps a clawed hand on the floor and Basatul loosens his bite. Keliaya@anncarise | Basatul speaks, still pinning Akinul to the ground, “I can kill you right here. My eager brother can kill you, and then he can take your pack and any information you threaten to keep from us.” Keliaya@anncarise | Basazim stands over them, growling. Basatul finally lets Akinul go and rises to his feet, raising a hand to keep his smaller brother back. The grey Lupan turns over, but remains on all fours. Keliaya@anncarise | Basatul: “Know your place, little pup. You come to me for vengeance. I will give you that. But do not demand that I share the prize.” Keliaya@anncarise | Akinul: “Yes, Salahan.” Keliaya@anncarise | Basatul: “Prove that you are not entirely useless, and I may give you some of that technology to upgrade your ship. Fail...and our pact is over.” Keliaya@anncarise | Basazim snarls sinisterly, “And you become fair game for me.” Keliaya@anncarise | Basatul: “Do not let thoughts of getting to lead the Ozkuraks distract you, brother. First, we have a new prey to hunt…” Keliaya@anncarise FX | https://youtu.be/cjaejG-LDAQ Keliaya@anncarise FX | The Valley Forge cruises through space. Activity on the bridge is low and it is one of the later shifts by the shipboard chronometer's time. Keliaya@anncarise: "That looks like an Class M planet? Are you sure it's not worth going out of our way to take a look?" Keliaya@anncarise | Gwi: "No, the map has it marked as a hunting ground for a Lupan pack." Keliaya@anncarise: "The time we were on Tiah's planet didn't go too badly...but I'd rather not repeat it either." Keliaya@anncarise | Gwi nods, "Yeah. That was a little tense." Keliaya@anncarise: "Tense may be an understatement..." Keelah@crystyll strolls out her ready room, reading a PADD while sipping on a mug of raktajino, "Anything to report?" Keliaya@anncarise shakes her head, "Nothing, Captain. The only thing of interest Gwi and I can see is a blue giant that astrometrics might want to get a closer look at." Keelah@crystyll hrms, "Anything significant about this one?" Keliaya@anncarise | Gwi: "The star itself is pretty standard, it's just that the gravitational forces don't add up, so we want to take a closer look at the system. It's a little out of our way, though." Keelah@crystyll considers Gwi over a sip of her drink, "How little...?" Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "It'll add two days journey at cruising speed, and I don't think we should deploy shuttles again after what Delaware and Skye ran into last time." Keelah@crystyll nods, looking back to Gw, "Well Mr. Gwi, what do you say? Is this gravitational anomaly worth the detour?" Keliaya@anncarise | Gwi: "It's not likely to be more than an object or objects our sensors haven't picked up, maybe hidden behind and in close proximity to the star. At most a small subspace anomaly..." Keliaya@anncarise: "We have something on long range..." Keliaya@anncarise | Gwi turns back to his console and taps a button, "I see it too. Four objects have just moved into sensor range and are coming towards us." Keelah@crystyll: "Ships?" Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "Looks like it from the speed and movement patterns. They're matching our course exactly." Keelah@crystyll: "Are they in visual range?" Keliaya@anncarise: "It'll be a while before they reach visual, even at their velocity. I'll be able to get a better scan of them in about a minute, though." Keliaya@anncarise taps away at her console, "Allocating power to sensors to get the best reading..." Keelah@crystyll: "Very well. Maintain course and speed for now..." Keliaya@anncarise | Gwi: "They're definitely ships. I...m pretty sure they're Lupan. Two larger, carrier sized and two slightly smaller, about the size of a heavy cruiser." Keliaya@anncarise: "Captain, one of the carriers matches our readings of the first Lupan vessel we encountered when we entered this region." Keelah@crystyll sits forward a little, "They did say they would be back... Increase to warp 9. If they want a fight, they will have catch us first" Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "Accelerating to warp 9." Keliaya@anncarise: "They're matching our speed." Keelah@crystyll: "Continue staged acceleration to maximum warp" Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "Aye aye, Captain." Keliaya@anncarise: "The Lupan are continuing to accelerate as well." Keelah@crystyll: "Time to intercept at present speed?" Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "I don't think they'll intercept us. We've reached maximum warp and they're just keeping pace at the same speed." Keliaya@anncarise: "From our data on the Lupan ships we've met so far, none of them can maintain warp 9.96 for 8 hour bursts like we can. We should be able to outrun them." Keelah@crystyll: "And they know that, which begs the question why they continue to pursue" Keelah@crystyll: "Options?" Keliaya@anncarise | Gwi: "We're less than half a day away at maximum warp from where the Lupan marked the border to Colonial Fleet space. No Lupan pack territory or travel routes seem to cross over." Keliaya@anncarise | Gwi: "I think once we make it inside, the Lupan will either break off or probably have to deal with the Colonial Fleet." Keliaya@anncarise: "And if the Lupan could overrun the Arshai, they probably would've already..." Keelah@crystyll: "12 hours at maximum is quite the push" turns to Kelly, "This will be the part where you tell me it's impossible, and I give you the order to make it happen anyway" she smirks a little Keliaya@anncarise chuckles, "The downsides of having a former engineer as Captain..." Keelah@crystyll: "Joking aside, can you do it?" Keliaya@anncarise: "I'll head to Engineering and give us all the power we can get from the core. It's going to be difficult, but a lot more plausible than surviving an attack from four Lupan ships." Keelah@crystyll: "Do what you have to" she nods Keliaya@anncarise taps the console, calling for someone to take over the bridge console before she heads to the turbolift for Main Engineering. Keliaya@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Should I raise alert status?" Keelah@crystyll: "Take us to yellow alert for now, yes. Escalate if anything changes with the Lupan" Keliaya@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Understood. I'll keep a close eye on them." Keliaya@anncarise | The VF goes to yellow alert as the ship travels at maximum warp with the Lupan hot in pursuit... Ann Carter@anncarise FX | It has now been over 7 hours after the first appearance of the Lupan pursuers. Valley Forge continues along at maximum warp, pushing towards Colonial Fleet space. Ann Carter@anncarise , Lennie and TQ arrive on the bridge through the turbolift. Ann Carter@anncarise makes her way over to the helm console. Ann Carter@anncarise | Fisher: "End of shift already?" Keelah@crystyll | Lennie & TQ also moving around the bridge to take their stations Ann Carter@anncarise: "Yup." Ann Carter@anncarise | Fisher: "But we're in the middle of a chase!" Ann Carter@anncarise: "All the more reason y'need to get rested up, then." Ann Carter@anncarise | Gwi and the current comm officer vacate their consoles for Lennie and TQ, heading into the lift. Keelah@crystyll sits quietly, almost meditative, monitoring the situation closely from the readouts on her armrest Ann Carter@anncarise | Fisher: "Fair point...let me know if we need to deploy small craft, Captain. I'll be on call." Ann Carter@anncarise takes the helm console with a chuckle, "Don't worry, Fisher. I ain't gonna fly into a star or somethin' while you're gone." Keelah@crystyll nods absently, "Take a break Mr. Fisher. I need everyone fully charged for now still" Ann Carter@anncarise | Fisher nods back and heads to the lift that Gwi has been holding for him. Ann Carter@anncarise taps her console, checking the helm data and picking up where Fisher left off. Ann Carter@anncarise | A minute later, the lift opens up again with Rianni and Ensign Wilson, a junior engineer, inside. Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson relieves the other junior officer currently on the Engineering station. Keelah@crystyll | Rianni joins the duty tactical officer Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht still stands on duty and the Klingon looks ready for battle and not tired at all. Keelah@crystyll | Rianni looks up at the Klingon with a smile, "Commander. Any developments I should be mindful of?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "The Lupan has matched speed with us for the past seven hours and have made no attempt to accelerate further." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni checks their scans, "What are the chances they just happen to have the exact same top speed as us...?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Precisely. They are not /trying/ to catch up to us. Even if their systems are not on par with ours, they should at least make an effort to reach us with a burst of speed, or break - Ann Carter@anncarise: - off the chase if they know the hunt is already lost." Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "Maybe they're just tailing us." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni glances to Wilson and back to V: "You believe as I do, Commander? That they are driving us into a trap?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht nods, "That is the only explanation. We have seen them use signature masking on smaller vessels to effectively conceal themselves. It would be far easier to do that and follow us at - Ann Carter@anncarise: - lower speeds without announcing their presence if they wished to tail us." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni checks her sensors again for anything untoward on their plotted route Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson nods and turns back to his console, "Looks like they're starting to slow down. They can't keep up the same pace as us." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "Or they know something we don't..." almost muttering as she scrutinizes the scan data Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "I am seeing something, just at the very edge of sensor range. I can't give any more than that at present..." she looks to Vrolmacht for assistance Keelah@crystyll | Vrolmacht looks over the data, "Too small to be a stellar body. If it's a ship, it's big" Keelah@crystyll looks over, "Continue probing and scout the surrounding area for options" Keelah@crystyll: "Tee, use an encrypted scrambler and check in with the QanwI'. I get the feeling Captain Vix's bloodlust is soon to be satisfied..." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "Nothing else within sensor range, Captain" Keelah@crystyll | TQ nods and begins muttering quietly through her headset Ann Carter@anncarise: "Should be closin' in to get a proper scan at tha' thing soon..." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni continues watching it like a hawk, with Vrolmacht helping her interpret the faint readings Ann Carter@anncarise FX | Sure enough, a few minutes later the readings begin to stream in... Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "Readings are still intermittent, but we see evidence that it is indeed another vessel and they attempting to conceal their warp signature. The vessel's volume is making that ineffective" Keelah@crystyll | Vrolmacht: "Captain if this vessel is Lupan, it far outscales any other vessel we have encountered to date" Ann Carter@anncarise: "Should I try an' alter course 'round it?" Keelah@crystyll: "Not yet, Ensign. I don't want to tip our hand until we have a plan" Keelah@crystyll turning to tactical, "Which, now would be a good time for you to give me" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni looks to Vrolmacht Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "The rest of the Lupan ships are falling behind. They /should/ be closing in for the kill, which suggests that they are actually unable to keep up." Keelah@crystyll: "A logical deduction. How do you suggest we use this to our advantage?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "We cannot battle five ships at once. I say we charge directly for the single ship ahead of us and try to disable it before the rest of the Lupan can catch up." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni looks up with the spark of an idea, "Maybe we should lose momentum too!" Keelah@crystyll: "Cadet...?" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "If we slowly throttle back to give the impression we are losing power. The QanwI' can run ahead and get a better look at this vessel. Find weakspots, maybe even position itself + Keelah@crystyll: + more tactically before we catch up" Keelah@crystyll considers this and nods, "Ensign Carter, do you believe you can achieve the desired effect with considered deceleration?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "It'll give the Lupan behind us more time to catch up and we'll have less time overall to deal with the ship in front...but I think we'll stand a better chance of disabling it if we - Ann Carter@anncarise: - know more about it. Ann Carter@anncarise nods, "I can do tha', Cap'n." Keelah@crystyll: "Make it so, then. Tee, advise Captain Vix to run ahead and scout the enemy position" Keelah@crystyll | TQ again relays the message Keelah@crystyll: "Time to intercept, accounting for reduction in speed?" Ann Carter@anncarise trottles back before responding with, "Twenty-five minutes." Keelah@crystyll looks to TQ: "Inform me as soon as we are within communications range of the vessel" Keelah@crystyll | TQ nods: "Will do Captain" Keelah@crystyll taps her intercom: "Bridge to engineering. "Kelly, we're easing back on the primary core. Have both cores primed and ready to shunt power for combat manouvers. You've got 20 minutes" Ann Carter@anncarise | <C - Kelly> "Combat? In 20 minutes? I'm right on it, Captain!" Keelah@crystyll | Lennie: "Cap'n, by th'time we'se reach tha' vessel we'll be in comms range o'the Colonial Fleet. Could be wort'sendin' a call f'aid once we gets there" Keelah@crystyll nods again, "Assuming this doesn't turn out to just be one big misunderstanding, and that the Lupan are actually just gathering to say a fond farewell after all we've done for them... Tee, see to it" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni works to coordinate all their support craft ready to launch, with more than a minutes notice for once Ann Carter@anncarise FX | A few minutes pass, then the scouting data from QanwI' comes in, even including a visual of the ship. Keelah@crystyll leans back, legs crossed and fingers steepled at her chin as she watches the view ahead Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "QanwI' is feeding us telemetry now, and we have a visual on the ship. Transferring to viewscreen" Keelah@crystyll 's gaze turns towards the image without lifting her head from it's perch on her folded hands Ann Carter@anncarise FX | https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/starcraft/images/6/65/Battlecruiser_SC2-NCO_Rend1.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20171019231244 Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "It's definitely more heavy duty than previously encountered Lupan vessels. Looks to incorporate non-Lupan technology, most likely taken from the Colonial Fleet given the similarity to + Keelah@crystyll: +Dominion tech" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni continues summarizing the QanwI' report: "Twin forward beams, similar to the Nuhar AP weapons. A multitude of disruptor banks and torpedo launchers..." glances to the screen, "/Very/ heavy + Keelah@crystyll: + duty..." Keelah@crystyll | Lennie chimes in: "Also, from these readin's, looks t'be runnin' a dual core like we'se got" Keelah@crystyll: "Besides avoiding it's forward firing arc, did the QanwI' identify any discernible weaknesses?" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "The four nacelles - though plated with ablative armour - are still a most noteable weak point" Keelah@crystyll: "A convenient factor to marry with our determination to avoid their forward arc" she smiles faintly Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "There is a ventral hangar bay, though the door is just as heavily armoured so it will not pose a weakness unless opened" Keelah@crystyll perks a brow, "I am sure Captain Vix has already noted that. If I remember my reeading correctly, she has quite the fondness for hangar bays..." Keelah@crystyll: "Current time to intercept, and delay until the pursuing vessels catch up?" Ann Carter@anncarise: "Seven minutes to intercept. The other ships are really fallin' behind, gonna take 'em at least forty minutes to catch up once we stop." Ann Carter@anncarise: "Maybe fifty, if they slow down more. If they go back to max speed, we've still got thirty minutes, minimum." Keelah@crystyll: "Communications range?" looks to TQ Keelah@crystyll | TQ nods Keelah@crystyll: "Hail them" Keelah@crystyll | TQ taps away for a few moments, "Channel open, Captain. Putting it up now" Keelah@crystyll looks to the viewscreen Ann Carter@anncarise FX | Basatul, the large scarred Lupan from the intro, appears on the viewscreen: "Ah, so Akinul's information came through. He may not be entirely useless after all." Keelah@crystyll: "I will take that to mean that you were informed we would be coming this way and are about to confirm that you will moving on with no wish to engage a friend to your people" Keelah@crystyll: "...given the purely coincedental positioning of your vessel directly in our flight path. What an unfortunately turn of luck in choosing a spot to test your warp signature masking..." Keelah@crystyll is seemingly strong with the sarcasm today Ann Carter@anncarise | Basatul: "I was promised a good hunt. Put up the best fight you can. I look forward to seeing your ship in action before I take it." Keelah@crystyll scowls, "I will not give you a second warning; do not engage this vessel. I have no quarrel with you, but if you pursue this endeavour I promise you; you will regret it" Ann Carter@anncarise | Basatul lets out a deep growling cackle, "You have spirit, little alien. But courage will not avail you. Let us see what you have on the field of battle!" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The call cuts. Keelah@crystyll: "..." Keelah@crystyll: "Red alert. All hands to combat stations... and so it is" Ann Carter@anncarise: "Four minutes to intercept..." Keelah@crystyll approaches the helm, "Tell me Ensign, how is your recollection of noted combat manouvers?" Ann Carter@anncarise: "I did fly fighters for a year..." Keelah@crystyll: "How about starship manouvers? Because I'm thinking these Lupan are less familiar with them than foes we would face in Federation territory. Do you recall one dubbed 'the Picard Manouver'?" Ann Carter@anncarise nods, "The warp charge tha' makes a sensor ghost?" Keelah@crystyll: "How accurately can we pull of such a move with the Forge?" Ann Carter@anncarise: "No reason we can't do it tha' I can see." Ann Carter@anncarise: "Thinkin' o' trickin' the Lupan?" Keelah@crystyll: "Indeed. If we drop out of warp right in front of them to draw their attention. Then use the jump to get tight in behind them" Keelah@crystyll: "Once the QanwI' has flanked, of course" Ann Carter@anncarise nods, "Got it. Half a minute till we get there." Keelah@crystyll: "Stand by to execute on my order then" she nods, looking to TQ as she turns back, "Tee, send a general request for assistance to the Colonial Fleet as soon as we are in range" Ann Carter@anncarise: "Arrivin'...now!" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The VF drops out of warp. The Lupan ship appears, magnified, on the viewscreen, and immediately begins turning towards the VF. Keelah@crystyll: "Phasers. Let's get their attention" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Firing phasers. Their shields are holding at 90%." Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "I'm reading a build-up of power at the front around those AP weapons..." Keelah@crystyll: "Helm, execute warp jump... now" Ann Carter@anncarise taps her console as the VF suddenly jumps to high warp and moves behind the Lupan ship. Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "They are firing the forward beams at the sensor ghost." Keelah@crystyll: "Torpedoes, full spread. Target the nacelles" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Torpedoes away!" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The VF unleashes a full spread of torpedoes at the Lupan ship's nacelles. Their point-defense systems kick in, detonating two of the torpedoes before they impact. The remainder explode on - Ann Carter@anncarise: - the shields, which flicker. Keelah@crystyll: "Helm, keep us on their rear arc and bring us about to protect facing shields" Keelah@crystyll: "Continuous fire, switching banks to facing as we come about" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Their aft shields are down to 60%. They are trying to maneuver to keep us in their broadside." Keelah@crystyll looks over to Lennie, "Tractor beam. Keep them from turning" Keelah@crystyll | Lennie attempts to maintain a tractor lock as long as she can to hold the Lupan ship facing away Ann Carter@anncarise concentrates on her console as she brings the VF about while Vrolmacht continues to fire. The tractor beam manages to lock on, holding the ship in place... Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "Captain, I'm getting some unusual readings from the Lupan vessel..." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "Energy spike in the secondary core, multiple redundant systems coming online!" Keelah@crystyll: "Auxiliary power to the shields. Helm, evasive!" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | Suddenly, the top 'pod' of the ship detaches itself from the main vessel, along with two of the four nacelles, and peels away. VF's tractor beam overloads due to the sudden transformation of - Ann Carter@anncarise: - the one target into two and subsequently pulling in different directions. Ann Carter@anncarise: "Goin' evasive!" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "A Lupan ship with multi-vector assault!" Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "That's why it was so big..." Keelah@crystyll | QanwI' takes the VF evasive move as cue to engage and decloaks directly above the Lupan vessel, gunning down on the detached pod in a spiral with both wing cannons blanketing the way ahead of a + Keelah@crystyll: + spread of torpedoes Ann Carter@anncarise | The cannons hit the pod-ship, damaging its shields, but it pulls away in time for the torpedoes to have to chase after it, and the projectiles are quickly shot down by the main ship's point - Ann Carter@anncarise: - defense due to being so close to it. Ann Carter@anncarise | The main ship turns away from VF first before finally managing to move its broadside to face the Starfleet ship... Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Broadside cannons opening fire!" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The bridge shakes dramatically as a few bolts hit the VF. Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "Shields at 75%!" Ann Carter@anncarise | The smaller half of the Lupan ship fires turrets at QanwI' to draw it away. Ann Carter@anncarise: "It's movin' a lot smoother after separation, gonna try an' get us back in its aft..." Keelah@crystyll: "Go as tight as you can Ensign, it's our best chance to outmanouver them. QanwI' will have to worry about that smaller vessel for now" Ann Carter@anncarise moves the VF in, circling around the Lupan ship and managing to outmaneuver it thanks to the VF's upgrades, while Vrolmacht exchanges fire with facing phasers. Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "Shields at 60!" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Their aft shields have dropped to 40%. They are launching auxiliary craft from their hangar." Keelah@crystyll: "Launch our support craft to engage. Helm, pitch us over 180 degress to protect each hangar as we launch" Ann Carter@anncarise: "Aye aye, Cap'n." Ann Carter@anncarise FX | Both larger ships launch their auxiliary craft as the QanwI' and the smaller Lupan ship dance in the background, with the Lupan keeping up surprisingly well. Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "They've launched 8 standard Lupan fighters and what look like two repurposed Rider craft." Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Our auxiliary craft outnumber them, but the Rider craft are more heavily armed than any runabout." Keelah@crystyll: "Keep outbound phaser banks supporting the small craft" Keelah@crystyll: "Helm, get us facing their rear arc head on" looking to Lennie, "Prepare a tachyon burst from the main deflector. See if we can't run their shields down a little" Ann Carter@anncarise | VF moves back to the Lupan ship's rear arc, but the phasers concentrate on their small craft. Two of the Lupan fighters are quickly downed in the fighting, but the two Rider craft hold better. Ann Carter@anncarise: "Almost there...on their rear arc again!" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "T'Pau is disabled and Pennypack is taking heavy fire from a Rider" Keelah@crystyll: "Divert QanwI' to cover" Ann Carter@anncarise | The Rider craft chases the runabout, disruptors blazing, when the QanwI' swoops it and takes it out. The other Rider craft break away and start chasing after QanwI' with two fighters, and the - Ann Carter@anncarise: - VF's auxiliary craft manage to keep the rest of the fighters at bay easily. Ann Carter@anncarise: "In position for tha' tachyon burst!" Keelah@crystyll: "Fire!" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The tachyon burst emits from the VF's deflector and connects with the rear of the Lupan shield. Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Their aft shield is almost down! One more phaser hit should do it!" Ann Carter@anncarise | The top half of the Lupan ship meanwhile circles around now that QanwI' has broken off, and then comes in for an attack run on the VF! Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "We're being targeted by the smaller ship!" Keelah@crystyll: "Reinforce dorsal shielding, focus weapons on the main vessel and fire at will" Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "Reinforcing dorsal shields..." Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Firing...their aft shield is down!" Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The bridge shakes. Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "Shields down to 45%! The small ship's dropped some kind of tricobalt charge, we have to break off!" Keelah@crystyll: "Evasive!" Keelah@crystyll: "Hit them with rear torpedoes out of the turn" Ann Carter@anncarise: "Goin' evasive! This is gonna put us in their broadside..." Ann Carter@anncarise FX | The VF launches a torpedo from the back as it goes evasive. It impacts one of the Lupan ship's nacelle struts and sends a shockwave throughout the nacelle due to the ablative armour trying - Ann Carter@anncarise: - but failing to distribute the energy of thee explosion. The whole nacelle bursts into pieces. Ann Carter@anncarise | Meanwhile, the VF adeptly evades the tricobalt charge's detonation but is caught in the broadside fire from the Lupan ship. Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "Shields dropping! 30%! 20!" Keelah@crystyll: "What is the status of QanwI' and the support craft?" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "QanwI' is being pursued by a Rider but is in good shape. Pennypack has lost shields but is otherwise intact" Keelah@crystyll: "Have the support craft go defensive. Tee, have QanwI' lead their Rider into our firing solution. We'll clear that for them while they draw fire from the main vessel" Ann Carter@anncarise | The small craft assembles defensively and coordinates fire on the smaller ship, managing to drive it away before it executes another attack run on the VF. Ann Carter@anncarise | Meanwhile, QanwI' and the Rider enters the VF's firing solution... Keelah@crystyll: "Standby forward cannons.... fire as soon as QanwI' breaks, we only get one shot at this" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "Forward cannons ready." Keelah@crystyll watches eagerly on scren, "...Fire!" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht opens fire, the shots tearing through the Rider's remaining shields and shearing off one of its nacelles and scorching the side of that ship. The Rider spins out of control before - Ann Carter@anncarise: - abruptly halting, throttling back, diving under the fire and charging right for the VF with its cannons blazing. Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "The Rider craft is going to detonate!" Keelah@crystyll: "Turn us away! Brace for impact..." Ann Carter@anncarise | The VF turns to starboard just as the Rider craft explodes, followed by a hail of fire from the large ship's broadside. Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "We've lost port shields!" Ann Carter@anncarise: "They've got us in a tractor beam!" Keelah@crystyll: "Get those shields back up!" Keelah@crystyll: "Continuous fire, all facing banks. Take that tractor emitter out" Ann Carter@anncarise | The Valley Forge exchanges fire with the large ship again, whittling down its shields, but its powerful broadside cannons score several hits on the immobilized VF's unshielded side and the - Ann Carter@anncarise: - bridge shakes violently. Ann Carter@anncarise | The tactical station flickers as Vrolmacht looks up, "We've lost two dorsal emitters!" Ann Carter@anncarise | The smaller ship tries to take advantage and dive in for an attack run, but QanwI' follows close behind it and drives it off. Keelah@crystyll: "What if we vent drive plasma from the nacelles and ignite it with a torpedo...?" Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "That will catch us in the blast if we are still immobilized." Ann Carter@anncarise: "Wait...we're free! Someone's polarized the hull an' are rotatin' its EM field!" Ann Carter@anncarise | The bridge shakes again. Ann Carter@anncarise | Wilson: "Another direct hit, but the hull is holding due to the polarization! Why didn't I think of that..." Keelah@crystyll: "Excellent! Move us off and vent the plasma" Ann Carter@anncarise: "Turnin' away an' movin' off..." Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht: "They are beaming through our unshielded side! Intruder alerts on decks 10, 12 and...1!" Keelah@crystyll grabs for the weapon stowed under her seat and takes aim at the first transport beam she spots Keelah@crystyll | Rianni and Vrolmacht work quickly to mobilize security and engage intruder protocols Ann Carter@anncarise FX | Five transport beams appear on the bridge between Keelah and the helm... Keelah@crystyll: "Defend the bridge!" Keelah@crystyll is careful not to fire too early, letting the Lupan materialize enough to be hit first Keelah@crystyll | Everyone else on the bridge would have armed up and be standing ready at this point too Ann Carter@anncarise | As the Lupan materialize, Ann and Vrolmacht open fire but end up selecting the same target, who is hit from two angles and instantly collapses. Keelah@crystyll | Rianni would fire on the nearest Lupan to her station, as would TQ. Lennie would send a second shot at Keelah's target Ann Carter@anncarise | Keelah and Rianni's targets are downed, but TQ's target leaps out of the way in time and begins sweeping fire across the bridge with a form of disruptor submachine gun, the shots inaccurate but - Ann Carter@anncarise: - slowly trailing towards TQ. Keelah@crystyll | TQ ducks behind her console while Keelah & Lennie turn to cover her Ann Carter@anncarise | The Lupan's fire hits TQ's console and fries it before he is caught by a shot from Keelah and drops to all fours. Ann Carter@anncarise | Meanwhile, Wilson picks a target but it leaps out of the way as well and charges Vrolmacht, pouncing at him and knocking him onto the ground. As the large alien tries to bite down on Vrolmacht, - Ann Carter@anncarise: - the Klingon hurls his head upwards and smashes his ridges into the Lupan's snout with an audible crack, breaking bones and sending it staggering back with a whimper of pain. Keelah@crystyll | Rianni turns her phaser on the staggered Lupan, firing multiple shots Ann Carter@anncarise | The Lupan is brought down by Rianni's shots. The second one hit by Keelah limps his way towards TQ, but is finished off by another shot from Ann. Ann Carter@anncarise turns back to the console to finish moving the ship away when another wave beams in, this time scattered across the bridge... Keelah@crystyll spins around at hearing the beam ins and covers the rear of the bridge Keelah@crystyll | Rianni & Lennie do the same while TQ tries using another console from her covered position to call reinforcements from the QanwI' Ann Carter@anncarise | Two beam down by the tactical station. Vrolmacht hasn't gotten up yet and quickly grabs his phaser and takes one out while the other tries to pounce at Rianni... Ann Carter@anncarise | One Lupan appears at the back of the bridge, right in Keelah's line of sight. Ann Carter@anncarise | Two more beam in at the centre of the bridge, one with a spear-like weapon who goes for Ann as she works on turning the ship away while the other looks around and turns to Keelah and the back - Ann Carter@anncarise: - of the bridge. Keelah@crystyll fires on the one in her sights while Lennie protects Ann above all else Keelah@crystyll | Rianni ducks low under the pounce with a slide forwards, firing as she spins around Keelah@crystyll | TQ retrieves her weapon and turns to cover others as needed Ann Carter@anncarise | Rianni manages to evade the lunge and spins around, taking out the Lupan! Ann Carter@anncarise tries to spin around but would have been too late if not for Lennie's shot, which takes out the Lupan going for her. The last Lupan aims a rifle at Keelah's back, but is hit in the shoulder by TQ - Ann Carter@anncarise | He stumbles and misses Keelah, his red beam cutting a swath across the engineering console, and to Keelah's horror, disintegrates Ensign Wilson before her eyes. Ann Carter@anncarise grabs the spear from the Lupan who tried to stab her and charges the last standing Lupan as he tries to recover and take aim at Keelah again. It jabs into his side and he lets out a howl, swiping - Ann Carter@anncarise: - a backhand to knock Ann away. She manages to duck under the swing and pulls the spear free, smacking the Lupan in the snout with the rear end and knocking his head upwards. Keelah@crystyll stares wide-eyed. Turning on the Lupan with unfettered emotions bubbling over, she drops her phaser and grabs it by the throat Ann Carter@anncarise | The Lupan is heavily injured and dazed, swinging a clawed hand feebly but missing as his throat is grabbed by Keelah. Keelah@crystyll squeezes his throat with all the Vulcan strength she can muster before catching a glimpse of the pained expression in it's eye. She regains some composure and shifts one hand to it's shoulder for a+ Keelah@crystyll: + nerve pinch Ann Carter@anncarise | The Lupan collapses to the floor unconscious. Ann Carter@anncarise | Five more Lupan beam down in the meantime, including Basatul with a belt and sash and a large cleaver-like weapon in hand... Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht gets up and fires on Basatul, but his belt appears to give him a personal energy shield that stops the shot short of hitting him... Ann Carter@anncarise | The rest of the Lupan scatter as they beam in and pick their targets, but then red transporter beams begin appearing across the bridge...and it's not Lupan who emerge from them. Keelah@crystyll | Rianni, Lennie & TQ all focus on the adds Keelah@crystyll stands before Basatul, waiting for his move Ann Carter@anncarise | Two of the adds are taken down by fire from Rianni, Lennie and TQ, while the other two find...Toroki tail stingers embedded in their stingers. Ann Carter@anncarise | A Toroki materializes behind Basatul and jabs a stinger at him, but the Lupan leader reacts with surprising speed for someone so large and brutish, cutting off the stinger with his cleaver. Ann Carter@anncarise | The Toroki tries to dash away, but Basatul grabs what remains of its tail with his other hand and hurls it across the bridge. Keelah@crystyll takes the distraction to retrieve her weapon and fire on Basatul Ann Carter@anncarise | His shields block the shot but flicker and visibly fail. Basatul tries to close the remaining distance, discarding his cleaver, dropping low to avoid fire and charging on all fours... Ann Carter@anncarise meanwhile helps one of the Toroki struggling with one of the adds who refuses to die. Keelah@crystyll stands her ground, dropping to intercept the impending pounce with a duck and throw-over Ann Carter@anncarise | Thanks to her Vulcan strength, Keelah manages to throw Basatul over, but he recovers quickly with a roll. Ann Carter@anncarise tries to jab Basatul with the spear, but the large Lupan grabs the weapon as it comes at him, snapping off the pointed tip and hurling it back at Ann, forcing her to roll away. Ann Carter@anncarise | He turns back to the viewscreen to see a Toroki ship decloaking and peppering the side of his ship with disruptor fire. Keelah@crystyll stands and turns, trying to force her way through his defense to land a nerve pinch Ann Carter@anncarise | The distraction allows Keelah to land a nerve pinch...but Basatul howls and swings around, backhanding her. He is clearly dazed from the pinch, however. Keelah@crystyll is sent staggering backwards Ann Carter@anncarise | Basatul staggers forward, determined to finish Keelah off... Keelah@crystyll | Rianni, Lennie & TQ all fire on Basatul, if not others on the bridge too Ann Carter@anncarise manages to recover her phaser after discarding the broken spear, and Vrolmacht joins in as well. Basatul is overwhelmed by the volley of fire and finally goes down. Ann Carter@anncarise | Vrolmacht turns his phaser to one of the surviving Toroki warily. Ann Carter@anncarise | Toroki: "I am not your enemy." Keelah@crystyll raises a hand to Vrolmacht, "At ease Commander. Secure the bridge and get me a status on the other boarders" Keelah@crystyll turns to the Toroki, "Indeed you are not. We owe you a debt of gratitude" Ann Carter@anncarise hooks her phaser on her belt and moves back to her console, not sitting down but bending over so she can return to fighting if more enemies arrive. Ann Carter@anncarise | Toroki: "You are allies of the Arshai. You called for help. We answered." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni starts checking the status of other decks while Vrolmacht and some extra officers secure Basatul Keelah@crystyll: "I was unaware that the Toroki were also friends of the Arshai" Ann Carter@anncarise | Toroki: "We have a long and...complicated history." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "All Lupan boarders have been repelled. Toroki reported at multiple locations. Security personnel requesting instructions" Ann Carter@anncarise: "I'm reading two Toroki raiders assisting the QanwI'. The top half of the Lupan vessel appears to be destroyed and the bottom is disabled. Toroki and KDF personnel both appear to be boarding it." Keelah@crystyll pauses with the Toroki and turns to Rianni, "Make clear that the Toroki are allies and have patrols secure all Lupan remains" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni nods: "Aye Captain. Numerous casualties reported across all decks. Only one fatality..." she glances to the dessimated engineering console Keelah@crystyll nods somberly, "Inform medical personnel to assist any Toroki requiring aid as well" Keelah@crystyll looks back to her new BFF, "I look forward to learning more of this intriguing history. Meanwhile, we have support forces available to assist in taking the Lupan vessel, but they have more inbound + Keelah@crystyll: + the last we saw. Expediency may be prudent. If any of your forces elsewhere require aid, our triage facilities are at your disposal as well" Ann Carter@anncarise | Toroki: "We have the situation inside in hand, but the Lupan ship's FTL system is crippled. We would like to take it with us if we can." Ann Carter@anncarise | Toroki: "The Colonial Fleet will pay well for such a fine vessel, even in this damaged state." Keelah@crystyll turns to Lennie: "Do we still have the tractor beam?" Keelah@crystyll | Lennie: "It'll take a bit from engineerin', but we'se can have it back shortly, yeah" Keelah@crystyll nods, looking back to the Toroki, "The I suggest that we start towing the Lupan ship as soon as we can get a lock, if your ships and our support craft are able to push back the pursuing Lupan" Ann Carter@anncarise | Toroki: "We do not have the ships to push back the other four ships. But we have a little more time before they arrive." Ann Carter@anncarise: "Ten minutes, to be exact. Guess tha' chase really burned 'em out." Keelah@crystyll: "Then perhaps an immediate withdrawal is in order so we can secure your prize" Ann Carter@anncarise | Toroki: "We should be able to coordinate with your attack ship to tow it along until your tractor is fixed. We are almost to Colonial space, and the Lupan will not cross over without drawing - Ann Carter@anncarise: - the ire of the Arshai, and they have the ships to deal with this group." Keelah@crystyll nods, "Tee, Coordinate efforts with the QanwI' and lets get out of here" Ann Carter@anncarise finally slides into her seat, "Warp functions all online. Ready to go on your order, Cap'n." Ann Carter@anncarise | Meanwhile, Security arrives on the bridge to clean up the fallen Lupan and incarcerate those who survived the battle. Keelah@crystyll turns to the Toroki, "Do you and your people wish to return to your vessel" Ann Carter@anncarise | Toroki: "We will assist the others on board the Lupan ship. Our Targun can speak with you more when we cross into Colonial space." Keelah@crystyll: "I look forward to it. And thank you again for the timely assistance" Ann Carter@anncarise | The Toroki nods and taps something on his belt before he and the others disappear into transporter beams. Keelah@crystyll: "Ensign, escort formation on the lead Toroki vessel. Engage when ready" Ann Carter@anncarise nods and taps her console. A few seconds later, the VF and other vessels accelerate to warp, with QanwI' and the two Toroki ships taking positions around the large Lupan ship (or what remains of it) to tow it along. Keelah@crystyll: "Commander Vrolmacht, you have the bridge. I'll be in main engineering..." she glances again to the spot where Wilson died with a weary sigh and heads for the turbolift. A weary smile as she passes + Keelah@crystyll: + TQ and pats her gratefully on the shoulder --- NPC@annpc#5570 FX | It has been three hours since the battle with Basatul's ship. The remaining Lupan pursuers have broken off when the Valley Forge neared the Colonial Fleet border, and now that they are - NPC@annpc#5570: - safely across, they have dropped out of warp to take over the towing from the QanwI' and the two Toroki raiders. NPC@annpc#5570 | In the meantime, the Toroki Targun, a leader of some description, transports over to the VF to speak with her captain. NPC@annpc#5570 | Katie: "The Toroki are beaming over now. Looks like a single individual." Keelah@crystyll takes a deep breath and stands ready, still with the memory of her last close encounter with a Toroki taking place through the forcefield of her brig NPC@annpc#5570 | The Toroki slowly materializes on the pad. It appears in a crouched position, looking prone and ready to pounce, its tail swaying as its insectoid compound eyes and antennae scan the room. NPC@annpc#5570 | Seemingly satisfied that it is safe, it slowly rises to its full height, towering above both Keelah and Katie at over 2 metres tall. Keelah@crystyll looks up, "Welcome to the Valley Forge. I assure you that you walk among friends here" NPC@annpc#5570 | The Toroki steps off the pad and makes its way towards Keelah, "As I am informed by the Colonial Fleet. But one must always be careful when going into a new environment." Keelah@crystyll: "Of course. You may also be interested to know that our friendly status is further corroborated by other Toroki" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "I thought this was not the first time you have seen one of us. You mammalians tend to be more...terrified on your first encounters." NPC@annpc#5570 | The Toroki emits a series of clicks that likely indicated a chuckle, "But whoever you met was certainly not a member of our Company. We know of you only through the Arshai." Keelah@crystyll: "Our previous encounter was limited, to say the least. I would welcome the opportunity to learn more of your people, and your relationship with the Arshai" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "And I of yours. You fight well." Keelah@crystyll dips her head, "Please, join me" leading the way out NPC@annpc#5570 | The Toroki follows her, though disturbingly decides to move on all fours in a very non-human style. NPC@annpc#5570 | At least it's shorter than her now. Keelah@crystyll | The pair exit the transporter room into a corridor that is less than pristine with repair crews tending damage NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Your vessel is powerful to withstand so many hits from a Lupan pack ship and remain intact." Keelah@crystyll: "We did not come out unscathed. But the Lupan were warned of this outcome" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Our people do not usually give warning before we strike." Keelah@crystyll: "We do not strike first, our way is always one of peace first. We only resort to confrontation in defense; be it of ourselves or those under our protection" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "We are predators, not unlike the Lupan. But where the Lupan use a variety of methods, we specialize mainly in striking first and surprising our foes." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Our ships are built as we are- quick and deadly. We do not have the durability of Lupan pack ships and rarely risk an open battle." Keelah@crystyll: "Well I am grateful you opted to intervene this time" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "You are allies of the Arshai, and our pledge with the Arshai demands we assist if we can." Keelah@crystyll: "I am curious about this relationship you have with the Arshai. My impression was one of a... colourful history" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Yes. We first met as foes 180 Jamoka solar cycles ago. About 6 and a half Vue-En cycles. I do not know how you calculate your time." Keelah@crystyll: "We use a measure of standard years, calculated from a mean average of planetary rotations as measured across founding species Keelah@crystyll: " NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Well, it was a long time ago for us. Our thinkers can determine the exact time when we know more about your system. Back then, we ambushed Colonial Fleet vessels, used their people to - NPC@annpc#5570: - breed. They learned how to counter our early signature masks and fought back." Keelah@crystyll: "Sounds a lot like our encounter with the other Toroki that I mentioned" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Then it was certainly not a member of our Company." Keelah@crystyll: "Is that to imply that your company no longer uses such practices?" NPC@annpc#5570 | The Toroki enters a turbolift with Keelah, standing straight to make more room in the small area. "What practices? Ambushes or breeding?" Keelah@crystyll: "Ambushing prey in order to use their bodies for breeding. Unless I misunderstood the context of your statement, if so I apologise. Our translators are still adapting to your language" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "You are correct. Our people used hosts to sustain our young in the past." NPC@annpc#5570 FX | The lift opens to the bridge level. Keelah@crystyll: "The explorer in me is curious as to how you accommodate this basic need now..." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "The Colonial Fleet shared their birthing pod technology with us. Together we developed a variant to raise our larvae. That was what ended the war between our peoples." Keelah@crystyll: "Fascinating. After first proposing a willingness to explore such possibilities with the other Toroki, we were given the impression that such a deviation from the naturally evolved ways would be + Keelah@crystyll: + undesirable" she moves the replicator, "Can I offer you refreshment of any form?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "There are some even today who reject the use of birthing pods and cling to the old ways. Savages. We do not deal with them, except in dealing death to them." NPC@annpc#5570 | The Toroki looks to the replicator: "We are capable of producing our own food." Keelah@crystyll glances back with a perked brow, "Savages, you say? Then I should consider myself especially fortunate to have been able to pursue a dialogue with them" Keelah@crystyll replicates a simple glass of water and perches against the edge of her desk, "Please, make yourself comfortable" NPC@annpc#5570 | The Toroki doesn't even give the chair a look; it lies down on its front, its tail curled beside itself like a cat. It looks up at Keelah, antennae also pointed in her direction. NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "They are as intelligent as we are. It is their ways that are barbaric." Keelah@crystyll: "Of course, I simply felt that to encounter these barbaric practicing Toroki and come away with mutual respect and interest. I had not realized just how fortunate that outcome was" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "They are dangerous. You must have presented yourself as no longer being appealing prey. Their thinking is outdated, but they are not mindless and will not throw themselves at you if - NPC@annpc#5570: - they know they have lost." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "You left them alone as well?" Keelah@crystyll: "We had first moved in response to the distress signal of their trap. After moving to investigate, they attacked us and boarded this ship. Their vessel was easily disabled and contained, while the + Keelah@crystyll: + individual who boarded us to sabotage this ship was captured and detained. We outmaneuvered them and proved that we were no mere prey. After also learning that this was no mere sport killing, but a+ Keelah@crystyll: + definitive act of nature with the breeding, they were allowed to go free" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "It would have been necessary for the survival of our people before the Arshai War, but now they are merely Toroki who cannot move on from the past, embedded in outdated and barbaric - NPC@annpc#5570: - methods. Deviants, the Arshai call them, and the Commune name them cultists." Keelah@crystyll: "The... Commune?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "The Free People's Commune. Like us, they are vassals of the Arshai who fought with them in another age." Keelah@crystyll: "You also mentioned a 'company' before. I take that is the organization which you belong to, a parallel of the Commune?" Keelah@crystyll: "You also mentioned a 'company' before. I take that is the organization which you belong to, a parallel of the Commune?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Not...exactly. Our planet is a vassal of the New World, but most of our people no longer reside there. We take to the stars to seek our lives. Some, like the ones you encountered, - NPC@annpc#5570: - prey on others like Lupan. Most of us now serve under independent warlords in free companies." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Many of our companies fight for the Arshai due to all that we owe them. Ours is the Silent Company. We watch the borders of Colonial space in our vessels equipped with stealth fields." Keelah@crystyll: "Aptly named then" she smiles, "It sounds like your various companies share some parallels with the different operational departments within Starfleet" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "And what are your operational departments like?" Keelah@crystyll: "They include many aspects; border protection - like your Silent Company, colonial, logistical, defense, intelligence, diplomatic, exploration. The list goes on..." Keelah@crystyll: "This vessel has served multiple roles during it's history, but presently falls very much under the exploration category. Though it is intended to be adaptable and independent enough that it can + Keelah@crystyll: + serve in almost any capacity. Perhaps not as ideally as a purpose-built craft, but sufficiently in most cases" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Ah. The purpose of our companies often cross over. There are many companies who work as stealth strike forces, either freelance or for the Colonial Fleet." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "And of course, some will do whatever they are paid to do. Your departments sound more like the Arshai Guilds, though much more specific." Keelah@crystyll: "There is an element of similarity with those I believe, yes." she pauses and chuckles, "I hope you don't mind my incessant curiosity. But yours is quite the unique species, and learning about new + Keelah@crystyll: + species is at the heart of who we are" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Most tend to be more...terrified, but the Arshai were quite fascinated with our people after the war ended. I can understand your curiosity." Keelah@crystyll: "Putting that aside for a moment, we should look to addressing more pertinent matters too. Namely, the collection of Lupan prisoners now detained. Do you have any intention regarding them?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Our ships are small. We do not usually take prisoners unless specifically instructed by the Colonial Fleet. If you have room to keep them, do with them as you please." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "But the Lupan are dangerous foes, even for Toroki. They will take any chance they have at escape, and if they cannot flee your ship they will kill as many people as they can before - NPC@annpc#5570: - they go down. I would not recommend letting them live." Keelah@crystyll: "I understand and appreciate your insight. But execution is not our way. What about the Pack ship we are towing, is there scope to hold them securely there before turning them over to the Colonial F+ Keelah@crystyll: + Fleet, perhaps?" NPC@annpc#5570 | The Toroki lets out its clicky-cackle again, "Do you really think handing them over to the Arshai will be more merciful than death? It is true, the Arshai have a reputation for taking in - NPC@annpc#5570: - outcasts, and they even trade with less hostile Lupan packs near the border. But Lupan never accept the authority of other species. They are a proud people, and they see all others as inferior." Keelah@crystyll hrms, "What about turning them over to a Lupan authority then, like the Sisterhood?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "I have only heard rumours of the Sisterhood. I do not know what they will do with your prisoners, nor how to find them to begin with." Keelah@crystyll: "We encountered them a while back and found them to be amenable. Arguably a parellel in their relationship to the wilder packs, as your companies are to the barbaric Toroki" Keelah@crystyll: "I do not know how they would treat the prisoners either, but perhaps handling by their own people would be most fitting and could serve to strengthen our Lupan allies' position" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Perhaps. I would not know how to find them, but the Arshai could know more. They usually know things." Keelah@crystyll: "We know where to reach them. Or at least, where we last saw them settle. I believe we may be able to reach out to them and make some arrangements, though given that we are in Arshai territory I + Keelah@crystyll: + prefer they be involved in anything we do with neighboring peoples" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "That will be your decision. And the Arshai's. We will hand the Lupan ship over to them at one of their outposts. You may speak with them there." Keelah@crystyll: "Sounds good to me. How long do you anticipate it taking for us to reach the outpost?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "About three and a half of our rotations, at current speeds." Keelah@crystyll: "Plenty of time for us to indulge cultural exchange then" she smiles, pausing for thought, "There is one other topic I must broach with you; do you only patrol this particular border of Arshai + Keelah@crystyll: + territory, or are you also familiar with the other side of the region?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "The Silent Company is responsible for watching this border. Several other companies play the same role in other regions. I am not familiar with these other regions, but Lupan packs - NPC@annpc#5570: - do roam there from what I know. They are nomadic and wander far." Keelah@crystyll: "Besides Lupan packs, are there any other noteworthy threats you are aware of in that rimward direction?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "No, but I have heard that the Colonial Fleet launched an expedition that way only recently, one led by a Baseship. And Baseships are not lightly used." Keelah@crystyll perks a brow, "Indeed? Then it is all the more imperative that I establish communication with the Fleet as soon as possible" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "You know of some danger that lies in wait for them?" Keelah@crystyll: "Yes. And one which may already be a threat to them if it decides to make them a target. Does the term 'Horde' mean anything to you?" NPC@annpc#5570 | The Toroki thinks for a moment, its antennae waving around, "No. But it is not our company's task to gather information." Keelah@crystyll: "I understand. Everything we know of them will be shared with the Arshai who will no doubt disseminate the information to the companies as they see fit. I am happy to share it with you in the mean + Keelah@crystyll: + time, if so desired" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Is it a threat you think we will soon have to deal with?" Keelah@crystyll: "It is one which you may already be dealing with, without knowing the true force behind the threat" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Then I am sure our warlord would appreciate any information you can give." Keelah@crystyll: "Then I will have one of my officers put together everything we have on them. Which is - regrettably - far less than I am comfortable with" Keelah@crystyll: "In short, we believe the source of this threat is an ancient species we know simply as 'Primeval'. It may be a single entity or an entire race" Keelah@crystyll: "What we do know, is that it exerts unprecedented degrees of telepathic control and absorbs fallen foes into it's ever growing Horde" Keelah@crystyll: "This Horde is reported to be moving coreward from the galactic edge, and will sooner or later reach this region. That's if the Primevals influence hasn't reached here already" Keelah@crystyll: "It is entirely feasible that the Arshai's Supreme Commander has become aware of this too, and that is why the baseship recently launched on the mission you spoke of" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "That would explain the expedition. And despite the Arshai's aptitude for scientific research, they have not yet developed a reliable defense against telepathic control." Keelah@crystyll: "I am not aware of any species who truly has. Though the Lupan are said to be naturally resilient. That does not mean they are impervious" Keelah@crystyll: "We are working to develop defenses - technological and procedural - against any such attack, the details of which will of course be included in our data share" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "That will be very useful. Though perhaps it may already be too late for those that have crossed over the rimward border." Keelah@crystyll: "There is no way of knowing just how far away the armies of the Horde actually are. But you understand why we must proceed with haste" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Yes, and they sound like a most dangerous foe." Keelah@crystyll: "Indeed. Starfleet has many foes in it's history; those who overpower and who infiltrate. But never one such as this, who grows in strength with all those it defeats. And one who can infiltrate from + Keelah@crystyll: + across vast distances without it's presence ever being known" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "We will keep alert for any signs of their influence." NPC@annpc#5570 FX | The ready room comm sounds and the Toroki rises on all fours at the sudden sound. Keelah@crystyll raises a hand in reassurance, "It's just our intercom" she taps her combadge, "Se'Lai" NPC@annpc#5570 <C - Silvestrie> "Silvestrie here. One of our Lupan prisoners is awake. It looks like the medical sedatives are less effective on them. He's not fully recovered yet, but he seems fairly alert." Keelah@crystyll: <C> Post additional security to the brigs Keelah@crystyll looks to her guest, "If you have any call to interrogate the Lupan, this may be the most opportune moment" NPC@annpc#5570 <C - Silvestrie> "Yes Captain." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "I did not see anything in the behaviour of these Lupan that requires questioning. Though the Arshai may be interested in how they obtained Colonial Fleet technology." Keelah@crystyll: "The signature masking used by the pack ship?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "No, the Lupan have had that for some time. Other elements- upgraded engines, shielding, and such." Keelah@crystyll: "I suspect it unlikely that this Lupan will know anything, but we can go and see if you like" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "And perhaps you may learn why most usually do not take Lupan alive." Keelah@crystyll: "Well then, if you would care to accompany me. Let us see what we can learn" she smiles, standing from her seat NPC@annpc#5570 | The Toroki stands to not block Keelah's way to the door before dropping to all fours and striding after her again. Keelah@crystyll leads them back across the bridge and down to the brig Keelah@crystyll steps into the brig past the door guards, glancing to the duty officer at his station before looking to the prisoner behind the force field NPC@annpc#5570 | Keelah recognizes the prisoner as the Lupan who shot Wilson, and who she nerve pinched afterwards. It gazes past the field to Keelah and the Toroki. NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "So you've survived. Come to gloat of your victory?" Keelah@crystyll: "Gloating serves no logical purpose. I wish to understand the reason for your attack" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "You were a challenging and worthwhile prey. What more reason do we need?" Keelah@crystyll shakes her head, "No, I do not believe you are being completely truthful. The first time your people attacked us we were a challenging and worthwhile prey. This time, you went to extraordinary + Keelah@crystyll: + effort to launch a coordinated assault that pooled more vessels than I believe any one pack has to offer" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "The reward was worth the risk. Your technology would give the Five Tails an advantage over other packs. And we do not like being beaten by inferiors." Keelah@crystyll: "the 'Five Tails' is what your pack was called?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "The Five Tails is a group of five Lupan packs that fight together under a Salahan. Roughly their equivalent to our warlords." NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "Yes. I serve under Salahan Basatul himself." Keelah@crystyll: "This Salahan... wouldn't happen to be somewhat larger built than you, adorning a collection of battle scars...?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "That is him. Our greatest hunter and leader of the Five Tails." Keelah@crystyll paces back and forth a little with consideration, "I am curious - as I know very little of Lupan culture - what would happen if - hypothetically - this Salahan was killed and his ship & pack + Keelah@crystyll: + dessimated...?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "Either another would rise to take his place, or the other packs would part ways and hunt on their own and the Five Tails would be no more." NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "I take it we failed, and the Salahan is dead?" Keelah@crystyll: "Yes. You failed and your great hunter is dead as a result of this senseless assault" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "Senseless? No. We would likely have won without the meddling of these lizards." NPC@annpc#5570 | The Lupan gazes over to the Toroki: "I take it your people killed the Salahan? Stabbed him in the back with your tails, no doubt." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "I was not in the fighting, but I am told he tried to board this vessel and died in the attempt." Keelah@crystyll: "My officers and I killed him defending our bridge" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "Impossible. Little things like you killed the great Basatul?" Keelah@crystyll: "This sole 'little thing' incapacitated you. Is it so far a stretch to see a whole pack taking down one foolish Lupan?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "He was our best hunter, and he has shiny tools as well." Keelah@crystyll: "He was foolhardy. He beamed in to the middle of a room surrounding himself with enemies. Overconfidence is often the downfall of great warriors in many societies, it is nothing to be ashamed of" Keelah@crystyll ponders the situation. Keelah@crystyll: "But you have piqued my curiosity as to the future of your 'Five Tails'. You said one may rise to take the Salahan's place... how would that play out?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "One of the leaders of the remaining packs will claim the title of Salahan. The rest will either submit or challenge him. Most do not submit willingly to a new Salahan." Keelah@crystyll: "And does this new Salahan /have/ to rise from within the existing packs? What if an outsider claimed the title, say one who had proven herself by defeating her predecessor...?" she slowly turns a + Keelah@crystyll: + cold gaze back to the Lupan NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "A female cannot be Salahan. Nor an alien, if that is what you are thinking. But another Lupan could come along, perhaps the alpha of another pack, or a different Salahan who wishes to - NPC@annpc#5570: - have more packs under his control." Keelah@crystyll: "And those of you who have failed the previous Salahan and survived your ill-fated assault on this vessel. You would follow a new leader without question?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "No. We are expected to die in battle. Why do you keep me alive?" Keelah@crystyll: "Becuase it is our way. We do not kill for the sake of killing, nor do we execute those who have wronged us. Our way is one of redemption, second chances. Giving those who have fallen, the chance to + Keelah@crystyll: + rise again; stronger than they were before" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "Then I am no better than an outcast. My pack is gone, my alpha killed." Keelah@crystyll: "I understand that it is your way to die in battle. You are not the first people known to us who practice such beliefs. But that does not mean you need to throw your life away. Think about it, where + Keelah@crystyll: + is the sense in allowing seasoned fighters to die, leaving a void to be filled by fresh and inexperienced recruits... when you can tweak, improve and refine that seasoned fighter into an even more + Keelah@crystyll: + formiddable warrior. A warrior who won't simply die in battle, but do so at the climax of a distinguished life fighting for a cause that is just. That can be believed in, and makes a difference" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "I have failed already. I cannot return to the Five Tails, or Four Tails as it may be now. No pack will have me because I have allowed my own to fall." NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "There are tales of outcasts, single Lupan who usurp alphas and lay claim to entire packs, but that occurs much more often in fantasy." Keelah@crystyll: "You are not the sole survivor of this day. A number of your pack-mates still live, and will be facing the same questions as you have, when they awaken" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "And what of the females back on the pack ship?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "We do not keep prisoners." NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "Then we cannot start a pack of our own. Our only option is to become mercenaries, fight for others until we die, perhaps earn enough of a name to be taken in by a pack." Keelah@crystyll: "That is not the only option open to you" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "What other is there? Ritual suicide? Some packs practice that, but I thought you didn't want us throwing our lives away." Keelah@crystyll: "You can join us. Follow me and not only do you face the chance of a defeating a stronger prey than you have yet dare imagine, but once we clear the region of space we are now crossing, we are likely+ Keelah@crystyll: + to find other Lupan who have strayed further from your home territory. Other packs means other females who can join us as well" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "They will not join failures like us. But I suppose if we have to debase ourselves to fight for aliens, it would be better to fight for ones like you who have proven to be capable." Keelah@crystyll steps right up to the forcefield, staring up at the Lupan, "Let me make one thing clear about this. This is no act of mercy or compassion. You are not being granted a reprise, you killed one of my + Keelah@crystyll: + officers, just a boy. You will face a challenge like no other in facing the hatred and vengeance in the eyes of all around you while knowing you are honour bound to abide by their will" Keelah@crystyll: "You will not 'lower' yourself to working for us. You will earn the right to do so, if you are capable..." NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "Mercy is the last thing I seek after my failure. But if you promise stronger prey, I will fight with you." Keelah@crystyll: "It will not come quickly. But one day we will intercept the Horde, and on that day you will have your prey" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "Then I will await that day, and any other prey you may come across." Keelah@crystyll: "What of the other Lupan survivors. Can they be convinced to follow your lead?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "Perhaps. Some may choose to take their chances as mercenaries. But more will probably see things as I do." Keelah@crystyll: "See to it, and perhaps there is hope for your pack yet. Those who do not fall into line will be shipped to the Sisterhood" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "The Sisterhood? They do not accept males." Keelah@crystyll: "Perhaps not. But the packs who serve them do, and I happen to know of one who made the same mistake your pack did. They could use the numbers" Keelah@crystyll: "So this is the choice for you and all of your packmates; give yourselves to me, and learn what it is to be an honoured warrior. Or be shipped to the Sisterhood and serve as recruit pups for their + Keelah@crystyll: + supporting packs" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "Some would no doubt prefer to be among our own kind. That is, if the Priestesses can convince this pack to take in failures like us." NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "Or rather, if they wish to. The Sisters can be quite persuasive, but they share the views of all Lupan on weaklings and failures." Keelah@crystyll: "Certainly no guarantee at this time, but if they are willing to take those who wish it then we will honour those wishes" NPC@annpc#5570 | Lupan: "There will be some among us who will not accept fighting for aliens, and would take their chances with the Sisterhood and prefer to be executed by them if they deem our failures too - NPC@annpc#5570: - great. I will not be able to sway them, but I for one will be willing to fight with you." Keelah@crystyll nods, "You will never replace the young life that you stole from this crew. But with sufficient effort, you may yet honour it. I recommend that you do not squander this opportunity" turns to leave NPC@annpc#5570 | The Toroki drops to all fours again and follows Keelah out. NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "You are willing to let this Lupan fight for you, after he has just attacked your ship?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "You have more in common with the Arshai than I thought." Keelah@crystyll: "It is not easy, for me especially as the young officer he killed died right in front of me. Some would even consider this a more cruel fate than killing him" Keelah@crystyll: "But it is through such acts that we learn to coexist with other species; to work past our differences towards a common goal. Were we in Federation territory now, I would not think twice of turning + Keelah@crystyll: + them all over to the authorities for prosecution. But we are alone out here, and driving towards this unfathomable threat. I do not have the luxury of clinging to traditional morality and must look+ Keelah@crystyll: + beyond personal prejudices if my mission is to succeed" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "It may be more cruel. The Lupan do not like fighting for aliens. Few have been willing to fight even alongside Toroki, even though they consider our people better hunters than most." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "But I see the reason in your choice. The Lupan are good fighters, though mired in tradition and prejudice. Despite their dislike of aliens, you will be safe in knowing that they will - NPC@annpc#5570: - not strike you in the back. It is not their way." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "They are not beyond using stealth and ambush. It is too useful of a tool. But they will never betray you, only challenge you openly." Keelah@crystyll: "And if nothing else, besides serving a hard sentence of facing the consequences of their killing, we have the opportunity to learn more than ever about them as a people. That knowledge may help us + Keelah@crystyll: + in the future" Keelah@crystyll: "We have found other Lupan to be cooperative. Some of my officers have even participated in their ritual hunting" Keelah@crystyll: "And there is one person on my crew in particular who the Lupan will have a very hard time getting along with..." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "The Lupan are not beyond reason. But far more of them are like our deviants." Keelah@crystyll: "Actually, it my other crew members reaction to them which is of greater concern" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Because they have attacked you many times before?" Keelah@crystyll: "Because this girl is a unique lifeform who has barely begun to explore a sentient existence. Prior to that, her existence was purely primal. And it concluded with her witnessing her mother's dead at+ Keelah@crystyll: + the hands of a Lupan hunting her for sport" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "And it would only be natural for her to despise the Lupan." Keelah@crystyll: "That is my concern" she nods, "Tiah is a charmingly innocent lifeform, but acts almost entirely on instinct still. I do not wish to traumatize her, but equally do not wish to shield her from life" Keelah@crystyll: "This will take careful consideration..." NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "A difficult situation indeed..." Keelah@crystyll: "But not one without a solution. You are no doubt aware of the support vessel that accompanies us" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "Yes. The smaller attack ship." Keelah@crystyll: "They are warriors much more akin to yourselves and the Lupan, than to us or the Arshai. Nonetheless, trusted friends. They will welcome the opportunity to bring the Lupan into the fold and refine + Keelah@crystyll: + them into reliable defenders" NPC@annpc#5570 | Toroki: "That sounds like a good place for the Lupan." Keelah@crystyll: "And I have it on good authority that the Captain has been looking forward to meeting them for herself" smirks a little

View AAR

AFTER ACTION REPORT STARFLEET SECURITY CLEARANCE LEVEL 2 | Confidential

FILED BY

CAPT Se'Lai

ON STARDATE

97176.3

LOCATION

KEY PERSONNEL

Sectors V-014

CAPT Se'Lai

CMDR Vrolmacht

LCDR Keliaya

LCDR Lendaria

LT Fisher

ENS Carter

ENS Wilson

CDT3 Tierno

CPO T'Quila

MISSION PARAMETERSOUTCOME SUMMARYDefense against Lupan ambush The attack was repelled and the Valley Forge is now is now safe in allied territory. Several Lupan taken prisoner and the lead vessel has been detained. Heavy damage sustained to Valley Forge. Several casualties, one fatality.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Our first priority will be to find safe refuge where we can effect repairs to the Valley Forge, my intention being to seek this with the Arshai to whom we will also turn over the commandeered Lupan flagship since it is known to be using stolen Arshai technology. The Lupan prisoners who do not accept servitude under Captain Vix and myself will be dispatched to the Sisterhood for prosecution under their own customs.

NARRATIVE

While cruising across sector V-014, long range sensors detected a group of Lupan vessels closing towards our position on an intercept course. After weighing our options and being unwilling to engage in combat unnecessarily, I ordered engineering to exceed safe operational margins for the warp core and we attempted to flee towards the border of Arshai Colonial Fleet territory under the theory that the Lupan would not pursue across the border. It was a calculated risk to exceed Starfleet engineering parameters by running at maximum warp for an extended period, but deemed preferable to ill-fated combat with less than optimistic odds of success.

As we approached the border, sensors detected that the pursuing vessels were beginning to fall back - presumed to be due to their inability to meet our capacity of running at our maximum warp velocity for the extended period. It was also considered suspicious and a focused scan of our path ahead revealed indications of warp signature masking. We extrapolated the data and theorized that the masked vessel would have to be of significant scale in order to effectively displace it's own signature masking. With this suspicion in mind, we began to decelerate - feigning a similar loss of power as our pursuers - and allowing the QanwI' to scout ahead under cloak.

Captain Vix confirmed our suspicions and fed back detailed scans of the enemy vessel which lay in wait for us. With no option available to adjust course without betraying our position and thus drawing attention we would no longer be able to evade, we continued and prepared to defend the ship whilst also preparing a distress signal to be sent to Arshai space as soon as we dropped out of warp. Though the carefully timed execution of the Picard Maneuver afforded us a brief tactical advantage that allowed us to evade the Lupan's heaviest weapons for longer, the vessel far outgunned the Valley Forge and we took heavy damage. It engaged a MVAM assault with a detached support vessel which prevented QanwI' from providing adequate support to us and our small craft. Though Captain Vix should stll be commended for the precision execution of multiple support maneuvers which saved more than one of our small craft during the engagement.

With the Valley Forge held by a tractor beam and multiple phaser banks burned out, we were unable to effectively defend the onslaught to our portside shielding which collapsed before we could completely free ourselves from the Lupan's grasp. With our shields down, they began to send boarding parties which were met with well rehearsed opposition thanks to the extended training CMDR Vrolmacht and LT Silvestrie have been providing to the crew. Multiple waves of boarders beamed directly onto the bridge and forced my command crew and I to refocus on defending ourselves, rather than freeing the Valley Forge. Though I will be filling a commendation in the personnel files of all duty staff that day for their exceptional conduct, I would note that without the quick thinking of ENS Carter in turning one of the Lupan's hand thrown projectile weapons against one of the boarders, I may very well not have survived. ENS Wilson was killed at his station, defending our ship from these boarders when stray energy discharge from a Lupan weapon swept across the rear of the bridge and cut through the Ensign and his console. A Purple Heart will be requested for his next of kin during our next communique with Starfleet.

The final wave of boarders was led by the Lupan's tribe leader - an extremely powerful individual - who ultimately fell to a combined phaser discharge from almost the entire bridge staff, but not before suffering a fatal wound from a boarding Toroki. The Toroki's appearance was unexpected due to our preoccupation with defending the bridge, and initially seen as an opportunistic assault. However, it was quickly clarified that they were responding to our distress signal as allies of the Arshai. Once we had secured the bridge, the rest of the ship quickly followed. With the Lupan leader dead, their attack quickly lost cohesion and the assisting Toroki vessel was able to disable and seize control of it with relative ease.

I learned from the Toroki's leader that they were a vassal people of the Arshai, and more highly evolved than those previously encountered. They expressed a desire to capture the Lupan vessel with view to turning it over to the Arshai - having determined that the signature masking it used was a technology stolen from the Arshai - a desire which I felt compelled to agree with. Once underway with the Lupan vessel in tow, we turned our attention to repairs & prisoner details. Interrogation of the first Lupan to regain consciousness provided detailed insight into the culture of both this tribe and the species as a whole. Determined not to allow the combined presence of both the Lupan and Toroki to sour my own judgement, a chance of redemption was presented to the Lupan in the form of servitude to our mission under the watchful eye of Captain Vix on the QanwI'. Those Lupan who refused to accept would be sent back to our Lupan friends in the Sisterhood, to be dealt with in accordance with their own customs.

We are now en route to an Arshai outpost - a journey of serveral days at our currently limited low warp capacity. Once there, the Lupan vessel will be turned over and we shall initiate negotiations for repair support. Since also learning from the Toroki that the Arshai recently sent out a mission to the far side of their space; one only known to be a highly important recon mission, I will also be aggressively pursuing contact with that fleet under the belief that they have also learned of the Primeval's threat and are moving to investigate. The Toroki told me that this mission was led by an Arshai Baseship, indicative in itself of the high profile of the mission and cause for me to believe that the Supreme Commander herself may very well be leading the mission.