ST:TTV526 | "The Holy City Pt. I"

Stardate 97550.6

The crew learn first hand what it means to say that if something is too good to be true, it usually is, when an interloper from the Terran Empire crosses into their universe, masquerading as a Starfleet vessel. But to what end...?

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Keliaya@anncarise FX | The Valley Forge travels quietly through deep space, continuing the search for the Lupan Holy City. Keri@hawkecosse#4702 turns to look over her shoulder at Keelah, "Sensors still empty, no energy signatures, Captain." Keelah@crystyll | TQ: taps away before doing a double take at her screen, "Um... Captain...?" Keelah@crystyll looks over, "Tee?" Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "Captain, I'm... not sure how but... we're receiving a directed comms from Starfleet Command" Keelah@crystyll perks a brow, "I thought we dropped out of range over a week ago?" Kiera@falconecoose raises her eyebrow slightly before turning back to her console, itching the back of her neck while she double checks the tactical sensors Keelah@crystyll | TQ nods: "We did! But... the encryption checks out. Text only update, but it says they've found a way to get reinforcements out to us. I have rendezvous coordinates attached" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni notices the reaction from Kiera, but contines working quietly next to her as well while brazenly listening in on things too Keelah@crystyll hrms, "It's not like the Admiral to jump such a move. But... circumstances can prevail after all" she nods after a moment, "Very well, give the coordinates to the helm. Mr. Fisher, adjust heading + Keelah@crystyll: + and advise ETA" Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "Aye aye, Captain. ETA is approximately four hours." Keelah@crystyll looks back to TQ & Keri, "I want you to take that transmission apart and figure out how they managed to get it through when we're out of range. You've got, well... 4 hours it seems" she smiles a litt Keelah@crystyll: ...le Keri@hawkecosse#4702 nods quickly before she starts running it through as many tests and analysis routines as she can in the time she has, checking it against previous messages they had received while at extreme range Keelah@crystyll | TQ moves to Keri's side to assist Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, can I just say, and I know am often too cautious when things feel odd, but Kassandra agress with me. I do. But this feels odd." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni nods, "I agree with her, um... them" she glances to her side, "Sorry..." looking back to Keelah, "Even if they found a way to get a ship out here, there's no way they could feasible + Keelah@crystyll: + despatch so quickly" Keelah@crystyll nods to the concerns, "I agree it is unusual, but whatever is going on - even if something untoward - we have a duty to investigate" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "It's possible they could've sped up the trip with Carran assistance, but it's hard to say for certain as we have so little information on their subspace corridors." Kiera@falconecoose nods slightly "Afirm, will keep sensors running at max when we arrive, just to be on the safe side." Keliaya@anncarise FX | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjaejG-LDAQ&feature=emb_title Keliaya@anncarise FX | Almost four hours pass at warp... Keri@hawkecosse#4702 turns around to look at Keelah, "Captain, the signal appears to have been carried by a Nuhar one, but has the packet markings of having passed through our relays but I can't seem to back trace it > Keri@hawkecosse#4702: > all the way, could be due to having been carried by Nuhar channels." Keelah@crystyll: "Everything else checks out?" Keri@hawkecosse#4702: "Aye, Captain. Everything checks out, didn't raise any alerts when checking it." Keelah@crystyll: "Alright, good job ladies. Helm, what's our eta?" Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "Four minutes. We're almost there." Keelah@crystyll: "Anything on sensors?" Keri@hawkecosse#4702: "Negative, Captain. Sensors are still clear." Keelah@crystyll nods, quietly watching the starstreaks on screen in contemplation Keliaya@anncarise: "It definitely not a Lupan ambush. With our sensors at maximum, we won't miss their signature masking." Keelah@crystyll: "Still, worth a cursory tachyon sweep for full cloaks when we get into range. Never know what they've got their hands on" Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, I am readying a Tachyon scan for when we exit warp." Keelah@crystyll: "Tee, have the QanwI' hold back to avoid the sweep" Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "30 seconds until we exit warp." Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "Dropping out of warp...now." Keliaya@anncarise FX | The starstreaks disappear from the viewscreen as the VF arrives at the coordinates. Keelah@crystyll: "Initialize the sweep. Full sensor scan" Kiera@falconecoose the moment the VF drops out of warp, she starts a full tachyon sweep at the max range that it can do Keri@hawkecosse#4702 quickly starts a full normal sensor sweep as well for anything that picks up Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain! Got a ship decloaking!" Keelah@crystyll: "Red alert!" Keliaya@anncarise FX | The bridge lighting shifts to that of red alert. Keelah@crystyll: "Put it on screen and standby evasive manouvering" Kiera@falconecoose quickly brings the tactical systems online, and powers the weapons Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | Incoming Hail is sent. Keliaya@anncarise | The viewscreen displays: https://i.imgur.com/mX1hW7r.jpg Keliaya@anncarise: "That...looks like a Starfleet design. Galaxy-class refit." Kiera@falconecoose starts a tactical scan to try and ID the ship while bringing up what records they had of thoses ships to confirm its ID Keelah@crystyll: "Since when is Starfleet in the habit of using cloaks on a ship of that class?" she asks with a perked brow Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | The Hail is repeated. Keelah@crystyll: "We need an ID. Tee, send a hostile challenge" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "Captain, it is rare but not entirely unheard of. The Kassandra had one" Keelah@crystyll glances over, "Is that so? remind me to put in a req with Command when we get back to Federation space" she smiles a little Keri@hawkecosse#4702 laughs softly at that, "Don't tell, Fi that there is a chance she could get a cloak." She would continue running scans on the area, still on the lookout for a trap Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, got an ID match with the USS Kassandra. It's last reported assignment was deep space scouting." Keelah@crystyll frowns, "Captain Derix...? But how? Even if they departed as soon as we reported the Horde threat they would be months away at maximum warp" Keliaya@anncarise: "Ship specifications do seem to match the Kassandra's class, with some variations. It looks like they've gotten local upgrades just like us." Keliaya@anncarise: "Nuhar neutronium alloy reinforced hull and a Nuhar antiproton beam weapon." Keelah@crystyll: "Stand down to yellow alert. And verify that ID, hull composition and warp signature" Keelah@crystyll: "The Nuhar would have told us if they had worked with another Starfleet vessel. If they're sporting an AP array, it must be salvaged" Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | A third hail is sent Keri@hawkecosse#4702 quickly starts running the scans to verify the ID Keliaya@anncarise nods, "The An did find a mostly intact Nuhar wreckage, they could've done the same." Keelah@crystyll | TQ: "We're getting a response to the challenge Captain, putting it up" Keelah@crystyll nods, "Continue verification in the meantime" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Captain! How nice to see a friendly face out here." *Mina appears on screen with a pleasant little smile on her lips, looming large on the screen as soon as the hail is accepted* Keelah@crystyll perks a brow, "Captain Derix, what an... unexpected pleasure" Minabi@stickybuns14: "A pleasure it is. Honestly, I was annoyed we were pulled from the previous assignment at first, but excited to help out a fellow explorer." Keelah@crystyll: "Really? I am sure the last we spoke you sounded almost envious of this mission. But it is indeed a pleasure to see a familiar face after so long, even if it is rather more... understated than I + Keelah@crystyll: + remember. Seriously Captain, I almost didn't recognize you at first" she smiles Minabi@stickybuns14: *she grins faintly* "You mean the hair? Well, you know how it is...spend a lot of time in deep space, get a little adventurous. I wanted to see how purple suits me." *she offers an enigmatic laugh* Keelah@crystyll: "Of course. So, forgive me Captain but I have to ask given how unusual this situation is; how exactly is it that you are here?" Keri@hawkecosse#4702 glances at the Captain and the view screen, before sending a typed a message to Keelah, "Hull composition match, warp signature below 40% match. Only possible if had complete warp refit." Keelah@crystyll casually taps on her armest console while talking with Mina Minabi@stickybuns14: "Subspace corridors. Since it is a rather unusual situation, as you pointed out, we managed to get some help in getting here quicker. COmbine it with the Kassandra being used to such drastic re- > Minabi@stickybuns14: deployments..." *she shrugs and smiles* "We made it work. I was a bit hesitant having just had a refit to our Warp-Coils, but we were the only ship that could make the trip in a speedy fashion." Keelah@crystyll: "I see... so whose subspace corridors did you end up tracking through?" Keri@hawkecosse#4702 raises her eyebrow slightly at this while she keeps running scans and watching the view screen. Minabi@stickybuns14: "Carrans." *she looks down and to the side almost embarassed, rubbing a hand on the back of her neck* "Hoping our help will be worth the cost." *a light chuckle at this* "Gonna be honest Captain,... Minabi@stickybuns14: not my favorite way of travelling, being dragged along like a wreck." Keelah@crystyll: "Can't have been cheap" she nods, "Last we looked at it with them even the Forge was too large to tow through the network" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Like I said, I hope our help here will be worth it. But we are here now! Would you be opposed to having an in person meeting? We should probably discuss some things face to face." Keelah@crystyll: "Of course, it has been a long and gruelling trip for you after all and we have a great deal to brief you on. You are welcome to assemble your senior staff and beam over for a full briefing at your + Keelah@crystyll: + convenience" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Excellent. I will send you a ping when we are ready to head over. Good seeing you, Captain. Derix out." Keelah@crystyll gives a curt nod before the transmission cuts. Looking around the bridge as she stands, "Senior staff to the briefing room" Keelah@crystyll pauses at Kiera's side, "And keep us at yellow alert" Kiera@falconecoose nods quickly while she keeps her tactical sensors pointed at the Kassandra Keliaya@anncarise heads off to the briefing room. Keelah@crystyll takes her usual seat at the head of the table, concern playing clearly on her face as everyone files in Kiera@falconecoose takes a seat at the table, rubbing the back of her neck, clearly having a conversation with Kassandra in her head due to her changes in expression Keri@hawkecosse#4702 sits down next to Kiera while looking at Keelah Keliaya@anncarise sits down at the table, looking to Keelah as well. Keelah@crystyll: "Ok everyone. Thoughts, feelings, concerns? Let's get it all on the table up front" Keri@hawkecosse#4702: "I don't like the warp signature readings...they are far too low of a match, a large cruiser having a full warp refit only drops around 40%." Keliaya@anncarise nods, "It all feels a little convenient, but their story seems to add up." Keri@hawkecosse#4702 nods slightly "It does...but I can't shake the feeling that something is off." Keelah@crystyll: "I also find that warp signature variance too far off to be comfortable. Also, why would the fleet rush a coil refit to ship a heavy vessel out, knowing it would be so troublesome to make the journey? Keliaya@anncarise: "This reminds me of the Dauntless situation from Janeway's reports, but if that isn't the real Captain Derix, she's certainly done better research than the one behind the Dauntless." Keelah@crystyll: "Indeed. So what else could explain the warp signature, and everything else?" Keliaya@anncarise: "It's possible this is all an illusion, but it would have to take something capable of bypassing our implants." Keliaya@anncarise: "So far the subspace entity was unable to, and it was a fairly powerful being. And if this is an illusion...I'm not sure why they would make us see a Starfleet ship." Keelah@crystyll: "But I would almost expect an illusion to... not feel so off?" she looks to Rianni, "Cadet, you've had experienced with doppelgangers before, could this be something similar?" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni shakes her head, "I don't see how, Captain. The other me was an intricate copy, but it's lack of experience and understanding made it stand out far too strongly" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "This one has a story that makes sense. And copying a person is one thing, but an entire starship? That's a lot of resources to invest into...whatever they're trying to do." Kiera@falconecoose rubs the back of her neck, "Kassandra has been getting an odd feeling ever since we dropped out warp, we are not liking this one bit. It feels almost like it is trying to explain away why we might> Keelah@crystyll: "What about Command? If we deployed a fresh buoy how long would it take to get verification?" Kiera@falconecoose: > doubt it being what it claims to be, with too neat answers." Keliaya@anncarise: "Maybe we'll just have to hear them out." Keliaya@anncarise: "When we have more of an idea on why they're here, we'll be able to come to a better conclusion." Keelah@crystyll | TQ shakes her head to Keelah, "We could drop a buoy, but it would likely be a day or more before we got a response" Keelah@crystyll: "Something definitely isn't adding up here. But without any solid reason to doubt them, I see no choice but to proceed with the debriefing" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "We'll just have to be careful, maybe not give them too much information." Keelah@crystyll: "There's protocol to these situation which requires Captain Derix to present her orders and a full accounting of their circumstances" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni pipes up, "There is one thing, Captain..." Keelah@crystyll looks over Keelah@crystyll | Rianni: "Why were they cloaked? It was a predetermined rendezvous with a friendly vessel, cloaking makes no sense..." Keelah@crystyll nods, "Another to the long list of very good questions that need answering" Keliaya@anncarise: "It's definitely suspicious behaviour, but it's possible they were trying to stay unnoticed by the Lupan and other raiders of this sector." Keelah@crystyll hrms, looking to Kiera, "Commander, did the Kassandra decloak of it's own volition or was it forced by your tachyon sweep?" Kiera@falconecoose: "It appeared to have decloaked on its own when we dropped out of warp." Keelah@crystyll: "Which would support your theory" she nods to Kelly, "Alright, keep digging. If there is something untoward going on I want to know about it before we speak to them again" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "Understood." Keliaya@anncarise FX | The briefing room comm sounds. Keelah@crystyll: "We should still have our own scan data of the Kassandra from the last time we shared orbit of DS13. Run that against the official record and the ship out there; I want a solid justification for + Keelah@crystyll: + every discrepancy, including that warp signature" Keelah@crystyll taps the comm panel Keliaya@anncarise <C - Eva> "Bridge to Captain Keelah. The Kassandra signals that they're ready to beam over three people whenever we are ready for them." Keelah@crystyll: <C> "Thank you Eva. Have them stand by, we'll coordinate from the transporter room when we're ready" Keliaya@anncarise <C - Eva> "Yes Captain." Keelah@crystyll: "Ok; we'll take their guests on board and continue per protocol. In the mean time, all efforts are to go on verifying this situation" Keliaya@anncarise: "I'll do everything I can to figure this out." Keri@hawkecosse#4702: "Will do as well, Captain." Keelah@crystyll: "If there's nothing more for now then, you're all dismissed. I will convene a team shortly to meet our guests" --- Keliaya@anncarise | Keelah and Zee gathers with Keri, Eva and Rianni in the transporter room to greet their guests... Keliaya@anncarise | Katie: "We're ready to beam them over whenever you are, Captain." Keelah@crystyll nods, "Energize" Keri@hawkecosse#4702 glances at Keelah before the guests are beamed over, "Is it too late to say I have a bad feeling about this?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Minabi materializes with the same casual smile on her lips. The other two appearing from the transporter are Commander DePriest and Commander Dd'shinae (in case people checked the roster before)* Minabi@stickybuns14: *Minabi scans the room, then looks to Keelah, smiling* "Permission to come aboard Captain?" Keelah@crystyll smiles, "Captain. Wecome aboard" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina steps off the transporter platform and smiles again, looking around* "Thank you for your hospitality." Keelah@crystyll: "The least we can do for an old friend. I believe you already know my staff?" Minabi@stickybuns14: "It's been a while, eh?" *she nods and smiles to everyone present, offering a bright smile to Rianni in particular* Keelah@crystyll | Rianni smiles brightly, "It's good to see you again Skipper! But why didn't you tell me you were coming?" she pouts a little Keri@hawkecosse#4702 looks at DePriest and Dd'shinae before looking at Minabi, "Captain, never had the plessure to get to know you personally but my fiancee spoke highly of you." Minabi@stickybuns14: "And I believe you know Dd'shinae and DePriest?" *she gestures to her two escorting NPCs. On Rianni's question she laughs* "You are harder to get a hold off than a Kitsune out here." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smiles* "Ah, it's good to know I leave an impression then." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni holds her pout, "Still, would have thought you might have mentioned it in your last letter" Minabi@stickybuns14: "When did you stop enjoying surprises?" *she winks* Keelah@crystyll | Rianni frowns, "I never enjoy surprises..." the frown deepening at a hair ruffle from Keelah, totally not meant to shut her up from putting Mina on the spot Keelah@crystyll: "You say you never enjoy them, until they happen and then you like them - as I recall" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina chuckles faintly, but then turns serious* "My apologies for arriving rather unannounced. But you have some...unsavory types in this area." Keliaya@anncarise | Eva focuses, speaking only to the VF personnel telepathically, <They are using rudimentary neural shielding, not foolproof like our implants, but I can't get a read from them yet.> Keelah@crystyll: "Yes, we have much to discuss; including the details of your orders to join us, protocol is what it is after all" she smiles, "Shall we?" gesturing to the door Minabi@stickybuns14: *she nods, waving a PADD idly in response the comment about the order though not handing it over just yet, then nods towards the door and joins Keelah in walking* Minabi@stickybuns14: *DePriest and Dd'shinae hang back a bit but join as well* Keelah@crystyll leads the group out, a pair of MACO's stand guard outside the door with another two security who fall in behind the group Keri@hawkecosse#4702 waits for DePriest and Dd'shinae to start walkng before falling in alongside Rianni Keelah@crystyll: "So you already got to know some of the less savoury population out here. I guess that's why you also ended up with Nuhar upgrades?" Keelah@crystyll makes small talk as they walk Minabi@stickybuns14: *she nods* "We salvaged some. Figured it would prove useful..." Keelah@crystyll: "And in such a short space of time since you must have left around the time that message was sent to us advising your arrival" Keelah@crystyll: "That must have been a gruelling a day of waiting for us to go through all of that" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Praise Commander Dd'shinae...she is quite the wiz with tech. And well, I do have a personal stake in helping." Keelah@crystyll pauses, "So you did leave at the same time as that message was sent" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she pauses, peering over to Keelah* "A day Captain? Now that's just silly." Keliaya@anncarise FX | As they near the lift, Keelah's combadge sounds. Keelah@crystyll: "Excuse me" she hangs back, a glance to the security escort as she taps her combadge, "Se'Lai" Keliaya@anncarise: <C> "Captain, we're picking up five Lupan ships on long-range sensors heading right towards us. Two packships and three escorts." Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina gives a signal to DePriest and Dd'shinae, who move in unison, not to strike or anything, only to touch the other members of the crew while Mina uses Keelah's distraction to toss another device Keliaya@anncarise: <C> "I think I've also figured out our guests..." Minabi@stickybuns14: ...directly at her.* Keelah@crystyll: <C> Tactical alert! Standby to-... Keliaya@anncarise FX | DePriest and Dd'shinae manage to tap Zee, Keri, Rianni and a security escort while Mina tags Keelah! The remaining security escort immediately draws his phaser and fires... Keliaya@anncarise | But the shot goes through Mina as they are transported away along with the tagged personnel... Keliaya@anncarise | Eva taps her combadge, "Lieutenant Dra to bridge, they've transported out with the Captain!" Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | The Kassandra raises turns and raises shields, heading towards the incoming Lupan ships. --- Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | Inside a cellblock that is remarkably similar but also different from a traditional Federation holding cell. The biggest difference being the agonizer booths neatly arranged in view. Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina turns and walks towards the cells now holding their prisoners, smiling pleasantly still* "Well that worked out -almost- as good as we could have hoped." Keelah@crystyll looks around with a startle, "What? What's going on here?" she tries her combadge Minabi@stickybuns14: "Welcome aboard the I.S.S. Kassandra Captain." *she tilts her head* "We've been expecting you, so these cells won't let you communicate with your friends." Keri@hawkecosse#4702 quickly looks around the cell before fixing her gaze on Minabi, not saying anything yet and just seeing what intel she can gather from what she can see Keelah@crystyll is not impressed. Keelah@crystyll folds her arms, "I.S.S.... you're from the mirror universe; the Terran Empire, was it? So /that's/ what was off about you" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina peers at Keelah quietly for a moment, then sighs* "Look Captain...capturing you is our ticket to get what we need. Nothing personal. The Lupans just were very convincing in asking for help." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Ah, so you know about us. Interesting." Kiera@falconecoose raises her eyebrow slightly at that, "Hmm...seems they are as cautious as expected, Captain. But clearly, not enough." Keelah@crystyll: "Every Starfleet Cadet is taught about your Empire. But we are well beyond the charted map here, even if you crossed into our universe there is no good explanation for you being all the way out here" Keelah@crystyll: "Unless..." she reasons, "... you weren't supposed to be, were you? Let me guess; you got your hands on non-Terran technology that you tried to abuse and it threw you out here. So that would mean..." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Yes, this is where things get complicated..." *she chuckles and scratches the back of her neck* "Close Captain...but mostly we used the tech to escape certain destruction and didn't have time to test Minabi@stickybuns14: it properly." Keelah@crystyll: "...This thing the Lupan promised you is a means for you to get home. Honestly Captain, I'm a little disappointed. From what we learned of your people I didn't expect a Terran CO to be duped by them" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she shrugs idly* "Wasn't really them that convinced me. But that is neither here nor there. They are a means to an end, as we are a means to an end for them. Just so happens the end overlaps enough." Keelah@crystyll suddenly seems not so above emotionally driven backhanded insults as the pointed ears would normally imply Minabi@stickybuns14: "Lieutenant Tierno! Minabi@stickybuns14: *she calls* Keelah@crystyll | Rianni looks up, having stayed quiet behind Keelah up to now Minabi@stickybuns14: *she looks over her shoulde,r expecting her own Rianni to show herself* Keelah@crystyll | MURianni swaggers in like she owns the place (almsot as much as the Captain does...), quickly setting eyes on her doppelganger, "Well... this is new" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina smirks faintly* "I'll expect you to make sure our guests stay secured and are ready for hand-over when we get there. And we don't want them maimed or killed." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni approaches the field separating them in disbelief, taking a closer look and ironically mirroring the body language of the other Rianni as the pair size each other up Kiera@falconecoose looks between the two of them with a slightly raised eyebrow, "It is interesting to say the least..." she trails off while looking at the other prisoners Keelah@crystyll | MURianni glances back, "It will be my pleasure. Presumably they are as hardy as us, well, we'll soon find out won't we" she looks back with a wicked grin Keelah@crystyll shakes her head, holding a hand on Rianni's shoulder to encourage her back, "They're just trying to get in your head, Cadet" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni nods to Keelah, "Don't worry Captain, I'm no stranger to cheap copies pretending to be me" Keri@hawkecosse#4702 looks at MURianni, with a sad look in her eyes Keelah@crystyll | MURianni snarls at the jab from Rianni Minabi@stickybuns14: "We're not trying to do anything beyond what we stated Captain. You may think you already have us figured out, but we don't mean -you- any ill will." *she moves forward and puts a hand on MURianni's Minabi@stickybuns14: shoulder in a gesture eerily mirroring Keelah's.* Keelah@crystyll perks a brow at the action, "Good, then you will be promptly lowering this field, returning us to our ship, and turning your weapons on that Lupan fleet" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smirks* "Nice try. But no. See, we do need something, not just to get home, but to survive home. And you should know, survival is a hard to beat motivator." Kiera@falconecoose looks between MURianni and the look from Keri that is void of any hostility despite her situation, clearly recognizable as having a conversation with Kassandra that neither was happy with Keelah@crystyll: "I am no stranger to extenuating circumstances, Captain. Perhaps you should consider showing us the same courtesy you have shown the Lupan and start by being open about things. Why not give us the + Keelah@crystyll: + chance to be your ally as you have them?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she shrugs* "One, you didn't have claws at our throats. And two, as I said, the Lupan are only one part of this puzzle." *she smiles apologetically and gives a brief squeeze to MURianni's shoulder, Minabi@stickybuns14: then steps back* Keelah@crystyll: "No, we gave you a chance. It's up to you now if you throw it away or not. Tell me, as a Captain far from home without any support; can you really afford to put all your eggs in one basket?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she laughs slightly* "No I can't." *she leaves it at that, enigmatically choosing not to elaborate further* "If everything goes well, we'll finish this deal soon enough and we can each go our Minabi@stickybuns14: seperate ways." Keelah@crystyll: "Just choose your actions with the sharp mind befitting a woman of your station" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Captain...a Trill doesn't get to be Captain in the Empire without choosing her actions very, very carefully." *she smirks* "We will talk again later. You may want to get some rest." Keelah@crystyll: "My point exactly" she notes, turning her back on their hosts and sitting comfortably with her attention squarely on her cellmates, and them alone Minabi@stickybuns14: *she nods to MURianni and Kiera* "Let's go. We have a rendez-vous to make." Keelah@crystyll | MURianni joins Mina, calling back over her shoulder, "I'll be seeing you real soon Rianni..." with a teasing smirk Keelah@crystyll | MURianni then mutters, "Damn that feels weird to be saying..." Kiera@falconecoose waits a moment before she turns to follow, a backwards glance at the people in the cell with a slight frown --- Keliaya@anncarise | On the bridge... Keliaya@anncarise | <C - Eva> "Lieutenant Dra to bridge, they've transported out with the Captain!" Keliaya@anncarise: "Red alert!" she looks over to Kirstine, "Lieutenant, can you raise the Kassandra on comms?" Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | The USS (HAH) Kassandra has raised shields and is turning away, heading in the direction of an incoming group of Lupan ships. Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 has a look of panic on her face before the orders snap her out of it and she starts trying to hail the Kassandra, "Aye, Aye." Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | No response from the Kassandra. Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "No response, Commander." Lendaria@crystyll: "What th'hells they playin' at? We can't jus' let 'em run off!" Kiera@falconecoose quickly brings the ship to red alert, charging weapons and running targeting scans on the Kassandra and the incoming Lupan ships, "Our weapons are coming online, now, commander." Keliaya@anncarise: "Fisher, follow the Kassandra. Lennie, keep an eye on their position. If they cloak, extrapolate their likely location and flood the area with tachyon particles, but for now ready a graviton burst." Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "Aye Commander." Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher taps his console and the VF warps out after the Kassandra. Lendaria@crystyll: "On it" Keliaya@anncarise looks to Lennie as they follow, "I know what they're playing at, but they moved faster than I could warn the Captain. It's not an impostor- not really." Lendaria@crystyll turns to Kelly, "Whatcha mean, wha's goin' on Kel?" Kiera@falconecoose glances over as well, with a raised eyebrow Keliaya@anncarise: "Everything checked out except for one minor detail. There was a quantum variance on the officers who beamed over. The Nuhar hull grafting covered it up on the ship, but they couldn't change their - Keliaya@anncarise: - genetics. That is the Kassandra, and the Captain that beamed over is Captain Derix. Just not /our/ Captain Derix." Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | Hail incoming from the Kassandra now. Lendaria@crystyll: "What?! Goddess curse 'em! Ya sayin' they'se them evil twin things from some parallel dimension? Gisjachet...!" Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "Commander, incoming hail from the Kassandra." Keliaya@anncarise: "We don't know what dimension they're from and what motivations they might have, but I think we're about to find out. Put it through." Keliaya@anncarise steps over to the centre of the bridge. Lendaria@crystyll keeps a curious eye on the screen while prepping the graviton burst and tractor beams Kiera@falconecoose rubs the bridge her nose "I am really tired of things from other dimensons trying to kill me...never thought I would say that. That is fair." she mumbles slightly under her breath Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | The screen flickers to life and shows the bridge of the Kassandra, with a disgruntled looking Mina stepping into view, now back in her usual uniform. "Who am I speaking with over there?" Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | Rianni and Kiera are on their posts on the bridge now as well. Their MU versions that is. Lendaria@crystyll doubletakes at the familiar faces in the background. Looking to the real Kiera and back Keliaya@anncarise glances to our Kiera as well with surprise before responding, "This is Lieutenant Commander Keliaya. We know who you are, Captain Derix, but we have no quarrel with you." Kiera@falconecoose stares at the other Kiera on the viewscreen who be looking back as well, a look of slight concern on PU Kiera's face Keliaya@anncarise: "You're welcome to live in our reality, or pass through or do whatever you came to do. Just return our people and we can go our separate ways." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Excellent." *Minabi beams, though there is a cold glint in her eyes now, all pretenses of acting gone* "We need your people for some samples. Once our Lupan friends have those, they can likely be > Minabi@stickybuns14: returned, no harm no foul. In the meantime, I would advise you against doing anything foolish like...trying to lock tractor-beams or somesuch. Your people are safe. How long that remains...is up to Minabi@stickybuns14: you." Lendaria@crystyll turns with a frown, "Samples for th'Lupan?" she facepalms, "Y'all realize th'Lupan already /have/ our crews samples, right...?" Keliaya@anncarise: "Maybe they haven't gotten to their Priestesses yet, but we're willing to give you samples as long as you cooperate and release our people back to us." Minabi@stickybuns14: *Minabi shrugs her shoulders faintly* "Well if you are happy to provide those, I see no issue in just continuing along the way we are already going. Just to be on the -safe- side, you know." Keliaya@anncarise: "We're willing to provide them, as long as you ensure no harm comes to our people. And you allow us to come along to ensure the Lupan don't do anything untoward with the samples." Lendaria@crystyll throws a dubious glance Kelly's way Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina stares at Keliaya for a moment, then tilts her head, smiling* "If you want to come along, lower your shields and power down all weapon systems. Consider it a security guarantee in exchange for > Kiera@falconecoose glances away from the viewscreen at to Kelly at her words Minabi@stickybuns14: my guarantee your people will be safe." Lendaria@crystyll growls at the hubris Keliaya@anncarise: "You think we'll just trust you after what you pulled off? I don't think so. You have Lupan reinforcements on the way. You have no reason to be afraid of us turning on you." Keliaya@anncarise: "Release our people on an escape pod, and then we'll talk." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smiles a soft, predatory little smile* "And you, I believe have no options. Either you comply and come along, or you try to fight the Kassandra plus Lupan reinforcements." Keliaya@anncarise: "Release our people on an escape pod, and then we'll talk." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smiles a soft, predatory little smile* "And you, I believe have no options. Either you comply and come along, or you try to fight the Kassandra plus Lupan reinforcements." Lendaria@crystyll: "Better yet; I'm-a thinkin' they'se should be droppin' outta warp an' lowerin' /their/ shields t'beam our folks back. Show o'good faith an' all" she smiles sweetly Minabi@stickybuns14: *her gaze flickers to Lendaria, emerald eyes sparkling with amusement, before peering back to Keliaya* "What will it be?" Keliaya@anncarise: "Exactly. You haven't given us a reason to trust you, but we've been accomodating so far. So drop out of warp and let us have our people back. This doesn't have to come to violence, but - Keliaya@anncarise: - it's your call." Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina shakes her head softly* "We've run analysis, your ship is a decent match for ours in a straight up fight. Unfortunately, I do not intend to fight straight. The minute you open fire, one of your> Minabi@stickybuns14: friends dies." Kiera@falconecoose would be using what data they had on the Kassandra in the databanks and from the scans to try and put together a targeting package Keliaya@anncarise: "I'd still rather take that risk than putting us all at your mercy. And besides, I never said we'd be the one to shoot first." Keliaya@anncarise nods over to Kiera, "Deploy the ablative armour." Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 would look up at the screen at the announcement before looking over at Kelly, "Commander," she would try to motion slightly at the console to try and indicate that they have another incoming hail Keliaya@anncarise: "Put it through, Lieutenant." Kiera@falconecoose nods before she starts to deploy the ablative armour Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 nods as she puts the hail from the Qanwl' onto the main screen, splitting it in half between the two Lendaria@crystyll | Mina's cheery visage is replaced by the disappointed scowl of the tiny Trill captain sitting in the middle of the Klingon raptor's bridge, drumming a finger impatiently Minabi@stickybuns14: *she sighs and shrugs* "It seems we are at an impasse. You have your options. Of course, if you continue to follow, I can't guarantee what the Lupan will do once you get there. Cheers." *the call> Minabi@stickybuns14: cuts off* Lendaria@crystyll | Lexi: "Captain...? Running off for a fun fight without us?" she tsks before looking closer with a confused frown Kiera@falconecoose looks away from the viewscreen and back at her console, a confused and concerned look on her face Keliaya@anncarise: "The Lupan have taken the Captain. Can you get in position to flank the Kassandra- the one that looks like another Starfleet ship?" Lendaria@crystyll | Lexi glances to her tactical scope before turning back a wicked grin? "The chance to fire on a Starfleet ship? Not something I expected to see in this hosts lifetime, HA! I don't know what game + Lendaria@crystyll: + you're all playing but you give the order and we'll hunt them down alright!" Keliaya@anncarise: "They're not Starfleet. Not our Starfleet, anyways. You'll know when to start firing." Keliaya@anncarise looks over to Fisher, "How long until the Lupan get here?" Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "Three and a half minutes." Lendaria@crystyll | Lexi flashes a smirk, "Qapl'a!" and the comm cuts Keliaya@anncarise: "Then we have three minutes to get the Captain out of there. Lennie, fire the graviton pulse." Lendaria@crystyll mutters, "It's like I can already hear the battle singing on that bridge from here..." Lendaria@crystyll: "Firing!" she quickly turns and works her magic Keliaya@anncarise FX | The graviton pulse knocks the Kassandra out of warp, and the VF drops out right behind it. Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | The Kassandra begins, what seems to be a turning maneuver. Keliaya@anncarise: "Keep us out of their forward arc. Lock weapons but don't fire. Wait for the QanwI' first." Lendaria@crystyll | QanwI' wastes no time in executing it's orders, baring down fast on the Kassandra's flank. It decloaks and opens fire with both wing turrets aiming at her starboard nacelle while the tiny raptor + Lendaria@crystyll: + sweeps up between the nacelles and hugs Kassandra's hull annoyingly close before zipping away again Keliaya@anncarise: "Fire phasers. Divert auxiliary power to deflectors and ready a tachyon beam, Colonial Fleet configuration." Lendaria@crystyll: "Got mah finger on th'button ready t' sweep. They ain't playin' hide an' go seek wit' us today!" Kiera@falconecoose the moment the order is given, Kiera opens fire, trying to aim for weak points in the Kassandra's shields Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | The Kassandra swings around slowly, shields flashing under the attack of the Raptor and the VF. There is a LOT of juice in those shields apparently. Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | Another call from the Kassandra. Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | Sorry, hail. Keliaya@anncarise: "Have transporters standing ready to recover prisoners. Continue firing and put the hail through." Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "Commander, incoming hail from the Kassandra!" Lendaria@crystyll | QanwI' would continue to spiral around the Kassandra like a moth to a flame, relentlessly battering her shields while occassionally pushing in close for the cheeky shield grind to really shake + Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 quickly connects the hail, putting the hail on the main screen Lendaria@crystyll: + them up, and maybe even try to physically punch through... Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | Mina appears on the bridge tinted in red now, but standing just as calmly and cocky as before. With the exception of a dagger in her hand, and one of the VF security officers in shackles next to> Minabi@stickybuns14: her on the bridge. She looks to Keliaya with a disappointed frown* "Really Commander? I thought you would hold the life of your crew in higher esteem." Keliaya@anncarise: "That's why I'm not lowering our shields. How many did you take, four, five crewmembers? I have hundreds more to protect on the ship." Minabi@stickybuns14: *before Keliaya can even finish the sentence, she takes a step to the side, puts the blade's point against the redshirts chest and begins pushing sloooooowly sinking the blade into their chest* Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 looks away from the screen and down at her console, not able to bring herself to watch Keliaya@anncarise glares at Mina through the screen, not averting her gaze as she watches for a few seconds before finally glancing over and nodding to Kiera, "Cease fire. And have the QanwI' stand down as well." Keliaya@anncarise looks back to the viewscreen, her eyes a strange purple hue, "We were content to let you be, Captain Derix, but now you've made an enemy of us." Kiera@falconecoose glances between the screen and Kelly with a frown while she hesitates for a moment, before she stops firing with a small sigh Lendaria@crystyll | QanwI' might let loose one final torpedo aimed brazenly at the Kass bridge despite the shields. Shortly followed by a text only message from Lexi, "Sorry, didn't hear the order at first..." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smirks and kicks the struggling body aside, keeping the blade in hand at her side* "Look at this in whichever manner you please. Stay away, or your Captain is next. Derix out." *the call is cut > Minabi@stickybuns14: again and the Kassandra prepares to jump to Warp again* Keliaya@anncarise: "Go. But I promise you that you won't get away with this. You won't be safe, not with the Lupan or even if you scamper back to your-" Lendaria@crystyll | Lexi would have likely signed that message with a smiley emoji as well... Keliaya@anncarise looks over to Kirstine, speaking unusually coldly, "Hail the QanwI', and have the Nuhar drone report to the bridge." Kiera@falconecoose slams her fist against her console when the Kassandra warps away, letting out some of the frustration she is feeling Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 glances over at Kelly before she shakes her head slightly to try and refocus while she hails the Qanwl' Lendaria@crystyll | Lexi appears once more on screen, "What the hell, Commander?! It was just starting to get fun!" Keliaya@anncarise: "They're not bluffing. They'll kill our people until there's no one left to rescue. We'll have to use a different strategy." Lendaria@crystyll | Lexi: "Then I suggest you strategize quickly, because our folly is scampering away like a wounded targ" Keliaya@anncarise: "I know what we have to do, I was just hoping we could get this over with quickly. Cloak and tail the Kassandra at a safe distance." Lendaria@crystyll | Lexi thinks a moment and nods, "We will be your eyes, Starfleet. Do not keep me waiting now, you wouldn't want me having all the fun without you after all" she winks and closes the comm Lendaria@crystyll | With that, the QanwI' turns sharply and ripples out of view before warping off in the same direction as Kass Keliaya@anncarise leans on the Captain's chair and waits for Remote to arrive on the bridge. Lendaria@crystyll works quietly, burying herself in her work to focus away from what they had to watch Lendaria@crystyll | A short time later, the turbolift door opens and the small Nuhar drone comes hovering out Lendaria@crystyll | Remote approaches the command station, "Keliaya, Commander" it's synthesized voice emits Keliaya@anncarise immediately looks over to the lift as the doors slide open, her eyes having faded to a light greyish hue, "Remote. We need the Nuhar's assistance." Lendaria@crystyll | Remote's pulsing red light flows a few times in silence, just long enough to seed the doubt that it is doing anything Lendaria@crystyll | Remote: "The request has been sent. Awaiting delibration and response" Keliaya@anncarise: "The Lupan and their allies have taken the Captain. We're going to do everything we can to get them back, but we're outnumbered. Tell the Nuhar that our mission likely won't be able to continue - Keliaya@anncarise: - without the Captain's leadership, and it certainly won't be able to if the Lupan destroy us." Lendaria@crystyll | After another moments silence, Remote acknowledges, "Parameters updated. Awaiting deliberation and response" Lendaria@crystyll | The drone contines to hover uncomfortably close to Kelly, just sort of 'staring' at her with it's pulsing red light while it awaits further input from either side Keliaya@anncarise looks over to Kiera, "Once the QanwI's found wherever the Kassandra's going, they'll send back all the scan data they can get without revealing themselves. Have tactical working on that data to - Keliaya@anncarise: - formulate a battle plan. In the meantime, deactivate the armour but maintain yellow alert." Kiera@falconecoose nods while stepping the ship down to yellow alert and deactiving the ablative amour, "Will do, Commander." Keliaya@anncarise: "Let's hope the Nuhar respond...I have a feeling there's many more Lupan than the small task force that came to assist the Kassandra..." Lendaria@crystyll: "I'd-a love t'know how them walkin' rugs got their claws into a mirror dimensions Starfleet..." --- NPC@annpc#5570 | Some time later on the Kassandra... NPC@annpc#5570 | Masaki: "We're approaching the Holy City, Captain." Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina peers to Masaki, then nods slightly. She was cleaning her dagger absentmindedly* "Good. This whole business better be over quick." NPC@annpc#5570 | Steiner: "We have clearance to beam down." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Lieutenant Tierno, why don't you get our guests, secure them and bring them to the Transporter room? We'll meet you there." Keelah@crystyll | A small grin precedes a firm nod and salute before she turns and marches off to do that Minabi@stickybuns14: "Masaki, you have the bridge while we're gone. I want ytou to run the ship through battle readiness. I am sure we haven't seen the last of the Federation." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Commander Laski, with me. --- Minabi@stickybuns14: "Well, here we are Captain." *she nods to Keelah and the others, then peers to the Transporter officer on duty* "We have coordinates?" NPC@annpc#5570 | The transporter officer nods, "Ready when you are." NPC@annpc#5570 | Sister Talaan strides into the transporter room, looking over Keelah and the other prisoners. Minabi@stickybuns14: *she nods to the Sister, then gestures for Rianni to guide the prisoners to the Transporter Platform* NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "So these are the ones who have been causing us trouble of late. They are small, even compared to you." Keelah@crystyll stands quietly observing, calm and collected. Almost like a Vulcan... Kiera@falconecoose glances between the prisoners, the captain and the Lupan, a look of concern on her face for a moment before she schools her face to try and hide what she is feeling Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smirks faintly* "Small packages can be troublesome. Especially when they are smart, tenacious and believe in what they are doing." NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan nods, "Very true. But here they will not slip away, not at the heart of our Congregation. Come, let us finish what we came to do." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Yes, let's." *she nods towards the platform again* "Come on." NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan steps onto the platform beside Mina. Kiera@falconecoose escorts the prisoners onto the pads, her eyes lingering on the Lupan before she steps past to stand behind the prisoners Keelah@crystyll moves when prompted without resistance or comment. Standing silently, watchful of her people Keri@hawkecosse#4702 steps onto the pad quietly, watching the others on the padd with an almost curious look on her face Minabi@stickybuns14: *She nods to the Transporter Officer on duty* "Beam us down. NPC@annpc#5570 | The officer nods and they disappear into transporter beams... NPC@annpc#5570 | The group materializes on a different transporter pad, with the surroundings of a stony composition that is visibly of Preserver construction to those familiar with it. NPC@annpc#5570 | Sister Talaan steps off the transporter pad, leading the way. Minabi@stickybuns14: *she leans over to Kiera whispering* Kiera@falconecoose brings up the rear to escort the prisoners, nodding at Minabi's words Minabi@stickybuns14: "How long will this take sister?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "Not long at all. We-" NPC@annpc#5570 | She pauses as a grey-furred female flanked by two Holy Warriors approaches. The Kassandra crewmembers would recognize the female as Sister Adar, the one in charge of the Portal activation. Kiera@falconecoose would be keeping an eye on the prisoners and anyone around the group while they walk NPC@annpc#5570 | Adar: "Ah. You have brought the samples, but a little late." NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "What do you mean? We carried out our plan as quickly as we could. The Elders approved of our schedule." NPC@annpc#5570 | Adar: "It seems the Asken Pack has already obtained the data from the Star-Blade. Not just a few samples, but all of them." Keri@hawkecosse#4702 glances at Keelah briefly with a slightly raised eyebrow while she watches the interaction Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina looks between the two of them, and then smirks quietly* "You folkx really need to work on your communication." Keelah@crystyll continues to observe the interaction without reaction NPC@annpc#5570 | Adar: "They were not a Holy Warrior pack. I do not know how they managed to obtain the data, but apparently their Alpha claims it was given to them freely." Minabi@stickybuns14: *the Trill Captain pinches the bridge of her nose in quiet, frustrated amusement* "You might have communicated that to us before." Kiera@falconecoose 's hand moves closer to her phaser, not actually grabbing it while she watches what is going on with growing concern NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan growls, seeming just as annoyed, "You mean to say all this has been for nothing?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Adar: "Not quite. Did you take the Alpha of the Star-Blade as the Elders instructed?" Keelah@crystyll holds that quiet smug look of knowing that only a Vulcan can make so infuriating Minabi@stickybuns14: "That'll be the one undoubtedly looking rather pleased with herself right about now." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she says this without looking back. It really wasn't hard to imagine tho* Keelah@crystyll perks a brow before allowing the faintest of smiles at the Trill's intuition NPC@annpc#5570 | Adar: "Then the Star-Blade will be uncoordinated and unable to disrupt the Awakening. I have read the intercepted reports. She is like their Priestess, responsible for not only binding their - NPC@annpc#5570: - pack together, but their allies as well." Minabi@stickybuns14: "You're incredibly dumb, aren't you?" *Mina interjects with venom in her voice* Keelah@crystyll | Both Rianni's smirk at the interjection NPC@annpc#5570 | Adar: "Without an Alpha, surely they will contest over Pack leadership." Minabi@stickybuns14: "You -had- what you needed and the Federation was more or less ignorant. In particular, they didn't have a cloaked ship following us to your Holy City." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Meanwhile, they have a command structure in place. Even if there was contention, it would be resolved." Minabi@stickybuns14: "and now they have A LOT of reason to -very- forcefully interrupt your ritual." NPC@annpc#5570 | Adar: "We did not know the Asken pack had retrieved the data until they were given an audience, and that was only a few hours ago." NPC@annpc#5570 | Adar: "What is done is done. We cannot return their Alpha to them, that will only make them more dangerous. But I must ask..." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she shakes her head and looks up to the Sisters* "Like I said...communicate better. And for now, you might want to get your ass moving because I am pretty sure the Star Blade and their friends will * Minabi@stickybuns14: be here very soon." NPC@annpc#5570 | The grey Lupan looks to Keelah: "Why did you give the data to the Asken Pack?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *moves out of the way of the conversation, strategically placing herself next to MU Rianni and Kiera, whispering to them both* Keelah@crystyll: "Their Alpha showed wisdom in his methods and adaptability. As it was of no consequence to us at the time, my people were more than happy to share data in a collaborative research project" Kiera@falconecoose nods at Minabi's words, already being in a position to provide cover if she needed to NPC@annpc#5570 | Adar: "Even if it meant the release of the Architect?" Keelah@crystyll shrugs, "From our prior experience with your people we had no reason to believe that presented any kind of threat to counter our decision. Beyond your own heretical preaching, we still have no such Keelah@crystyll: + reason. We share your understanding of those we call the Preservers in your own creation mythology, and the chance to share data on the subject was - honestly - a curious one" Keelah@crystyll | MURianni exhales, kicking her feet while the grownups talk. She occupies herself tapping on a PADD. Totally not relaying specific instructions to the ship... NPC@annpc#5570 | Adar growls, "Heretical? I will have the Portal ready as soon as it can be. Talaan, show them the truth of our beliefs." NPC@annpc#5570 | Adar turns and strides off with the Holy Warriors, and Talaan nods, continuing to lead the way. Keelah@crystyll 's Vulcan'y smug expression only serves to verify that her words were perfectly chosen to elicit the growled response Minabi@stickybuns14: *Minabi follows Talaan and smirks* "Your friend there really screwed the pooch, didn't she?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "As you can see, our people are scattered and disorganized, despite the best efforts of the Sisterhood. The Awakening of the Architect shall change that." NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "And for your curiosity on our beliefs..." NPC@annpc#5570 | She leads the way into a large open room with a number of Preserver consoles and Lupan working on them. NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "I doubt you will share our goals, but Sister Adar wishes me to show you." Keelah@crystyll fully expects this 'Architect' to appear as a Preserver holo like the one known to Starfleet already NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan steps up to a console, tapping. Indeed, a hologram of a male Preserver appears, but it flickers erratically and appears very distorted. Keri@hawkecosse#4702 looks at the console and the Lupan working at them with curiosity NPC@annpc#5570 | Hologram: "...difficult to say what is in control of the Horde...the Fallen or... All we know...rampage endlessly...cannot halt." NPC@annpc#5570 | Hologram: "...knowledge...the Architect…of use against the Horde...The Fallen...their original bodies...the Portal…opened by our genetics...the Fallen...not be able to access..." NPC@annpc#5570 | Hologram: "...imperative that we...release the Architect....all other means...should we do so...his awakening...usher in...new era...domination over the Children." NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "This is what our Sisters were able to keep of the ancient words, recorded and spoken by the gods themselves." Keelah@crystyll 's mental facepalm is almost malleable Keri@hawkecosse#4702 all but lets out a sigh Minabi@stickybuns14: *Minabi does not have any particular comment. Mostly, because she's communicated with the Architect so she had a bit of a different perspective* NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "The Awakening will bring about the Architect's new era, and we shall be his heralds." Kiera@falconecoose tenses slightly while thinking about what this means, Kassandra remembering how it felt to have it inside their head Keelah@crystyll: "I suppose that pointing out how ludicrous it is to attempt such a thing based solely on a single fragmented recording would be a fruitless exercise" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Well, there is also the fact that we met the Architect on our way here." *she smiles* NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "We have studied the technology for many generations. And there are more recordings, though largely unrelated to the Portal." Keelah@crystyll looks to Mina with a perked brow, "So that is how you came to be in this universe? Perhaps now would be a good time to elaborate on that journey" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Do we have time for elaboration?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "It will take more work to integrate the final samples before the portal is opened. There is plenty of time." Keelah@crystyll: "You are the one with the knowledge here. You tell me" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she sighs and looks around for a moment.* "Do you have a place we can sit down and have a drink?" *to Sister Talaan* "Without people trying to stare us down." NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan nods, "Come with me." NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan leads them into a room with a transparent wall looking out into the starry darkness of space and the Lupan fleet around the station. There is a single table in the centre and a rug - NPC@annpc#5570 - underneath, but no chairs as the Lupan don't use them. Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smirks, then shrugs and gestures to the table* "Tierno, Laski, keep an eye on the other two. Feel free to chat. Seems like we have a bit of a break." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she gestures to the table for Keelah* Keelah@crystyll kneels elegantly on the rug Minabi@stickybuns14 sits in a bridge officer chair. NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan glances between the two Riannis, sniffing as she does, "We Lupan cannot tell your faces very well, but you are similar in build...and have a similar base to your scent." Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina pinches the bridge of her nose, again, as she settles down, brushing a strand of her purple hair back* Keelah@crystyll | The Rianni's glance at one another, and back to Talaan with equal faces of disgust at the comparison Keri@hawkecosse#4702 moves away from the captains slightly before she sits down on the rug Minabi@stickybuns14: *behind her, barely noticeable until now, but sitting down nearby the captain at this point, is one of Minabi's diminutive little guards* Keelah@crystyll looks to Mina, "Ok then Captain. What is it you know about this Architect?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan eyes the little guard before looking to Kiera and the Riannis, "I keep seeing these things with your Captain, but I have never seen their like before? Are they even Children?" Kiera@falconecoose moves over to where Keri is sitting after glancing at everyone else for a moment Minabi@stickybuns14: "What do I know...?" *she pauses and reaches behind her. Her little shadow hands over a small flask and she hands the flask to Keelah* "As I said, we met him. Our journey to your universe was not * Keri@hawkecosse#4702 looks at Kiera with a slightly raised eyebrow but not saying anything Minabi@stickybuns14: entirely voluntary. We found a piece of technology...and we had to use it before we were really ready to do so." Keelah@crystyll hesitantly takes the offered flask, a cursory sniff before a small taste, "Indeed? And what exactly was the nature of this technology then?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *The flask contains....mint hot chocolate which tastes exceptionally good* "It was a device capable of transporting matter to any place in the universe, through shields, through any kind of known * Minabi@stickybuns14: barrier. And not just people...entire ships." Keelah@crystyll: "Subspace manipulation?" she ventures, passing the flask back after a sip Kiera@falconecoose pulls out a small padd while looking at Keri, "You intrigue me, you have this air about you and I noticed how you looked at our Rianni despite the threats she was making." Keelah@crystyll | MURianni meanwhile looks back to Talaan, "They may be diminutive, but do not mistake them for offspring" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina takes the flask and takes a sip as well* "My...friend basically adapted the device to our systems. It's more or less an interdimensiuonal transport device. It puts you in a seperate dimension, * NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "I assume by how the Captain keeps them close that they are capable guardians?" Minabi@stickybuns14: allows you to navigate it to your desired point of return in your own dimension and then lets you jump back." Keelah@crystyll nods, "As I thought. So following events through from what we know thus far; I would surmise that this integrated technology did not work as planned, landed you someplace that you could not return + Keelah@crystyll: + from. That then, would be where you met this Architect?" Keelah@crystyll | MURianni smirks, "More than capable" Minabi@stickybuns14: "It worked alright. Except that we had to fire it before we were ready. See..." *she sighs, takes another sip and hands the flask back to Keelah* "We were on the run from another Empire ship...when> Minabi@stickybuns14: we triggered the device and it must have caused an energy spike that landed us in the dimension where the Architect is held." Keri@hawkecosse#4702 nods slightly "Yeah? I suppose I can't help it, I am quite maternal. Got that from my aunt, and no matter where they are from a child is still a child, even if they have been denied that chance." Keelah@crystyll perks a brow, taking the flask again, curious at the point they were fleeing one of their own, "So what do you know of this Architect?" she cuts straight to the point for now NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "Perhaps we /have/ been giving you prey below your skills. I have not had a chance to witness them in battle, but your Captain's life has not been in danger, has it?" Keelah@crystyll | MURianni scowls, "I would dare you to endanger her and see where it gets you. But honestly-" she turns away nonchalantly, "-I would rather see one of your supposed warriors actually worthy of + Keelah@crystyll: + being called more than prey, themselves" she fiddles with the trophy necklace around her neck to emphasize the point Keelah@crystyll | Rianni looks on curiously, scratching at something around her own neck, though concealed by the collar of her uniform Minabi@stickybuns14: "Hmmm. For one, we know they are real. Have telepathic powers. Can more or less scan your brain for information and calls themselves the creator of humanoid life." *she shrugs her shoulders faintly*> Kiera@falconecoose nods slightly, glancing over at the others before lowering her voice slightly, "It is nice knowing that some people think that...anyway, that is not the only reason you interest me. I have read > Minabi@stickybuns14: "I am not 100% sure on that front to be honest, however, they have given us the means to survive the attack we escaped from and are likely to at least know how to get us back. That...is a calculated > Minabi@stickybuns14: risk to be fair." Kiera@falconecoose: > what information we interecepted and was able to aquire about you, along with people on your crew, you have been through so much, lost almost everything time and time again. Yet you keep going > Kiera@falconecoose: > without anything to force you to, so why?" Keelah@crystyll leans in attentively, "Let me be sure I have this straight, Captain. In a realm between realities you encountered this... 'being', which claimed a sense of godhood and you say it used telepathy?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan: "Our best warriors are usually too proud to face you, but perhaps one may do so still. You have proven yourself quite capable against those you have fought." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smiles idly* "I am no expert in telepathy...but it did probe our minds and appeared as images of friends or colleagues, dead or alive. My assumption went to telepathy." Keri@hawkecosse#4702 shrugs slightly "Because this is what I want to be doing, not this exact situation to be fair, but it comes with the job. But I wanted to be an explorer and so does my family. > Keelah@crystyll 's wide-eyed realization betrays her recognition of this description, "Captain... do you have a tricorder on you?" Keri@hawkecosse#4702: > So if there is any reason bar why I want to, it is so they have a more peaceful world to explore with the violence that has darkened my career." Keelah@crystyll | MURianni grins, "I could always use a new throw to match my rug" catching Rianni in her eye, "What's with you? What're you hiding there?" Keelah@crystyll | Rianni frowns at her twin, recoiling protectively, "Nothing of your concern!" Keelah@crystyll | MURianni smirks and makes a quick grab to pull open the collar of Rianni's tunic to reveal a Lupan canine dangling from a lace around her neck Kiera@falconecoose smiles slightly and nods at Keri's answer before she hands her the small padd, "It is limited in it's function, little more than a data viewer but I have put some things on it you might find > Minabi@stickybuns14: *she raises a brow and then narrows her eyes a bit suspiciously, but not necessarily in a hostile way* "I do...why?" Keelah@crystyll | MURianni: "Well well, maybe we're not so different after all, kitten. I honestly was starting to worry you didn't have any fight in you" Kiera@falconecoose: > interesting, or like to see again." NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan eyes Rianni curiously, "Even this universe's version of you have beaten a Lupan? I must admit, that is impressive." Keelah@crystyll | Rianni scowls still, quickly recovering her collar, "I did not steal this through combat, thank you! I /earned/ this through the respect of a shared hunt with a pack Alpha!" Keri@hawkecosse#4702 looks surprised while she takes the offered padd, before she opens it up and sees a recent picture of Fiona and Nexus on it, she looks up and smiles at Kiera, "You are not that different from our > Keri@hawkecosse#4702: > Kiera, you know." Keelah@crystyll holds an open palm to Mina, inviting the tricorder to it, "Please, a moment's indulgence. There is something we must check you for" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she waits a moment longer...then sighs and shrugs, handing over her tricorder* Keelah@crystyll quickly taps away, configuring a very specific scan before waving it at Mina, as one does Keelah@crystyll nods after a moment, closing the tricorder and handing it back, "It is as I feared..." Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina raises a brow* "Care to explain?" Keelah@crystyll: "Captain, assuming sufficient similarity between our universes I will assume a comparative baseline historically. What do you know of a species definition of Primeval?" Kiera@falconecoose looks away for a moment, "Really? What is she like?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she purses her lips, tapping a fingertip against them for a moment* "A type of species believed to pre-date humanoid life in the universe." Keelah@crystyll nods, "Exactly. We know of such a species only by this name; a lifeform which predates all others and is capable of exerting telepathic influence - even subconscious direction - over vast distances, + Keelah@crystyll: + immeasurable counts of lightyears. They are malicious and exist for the sole purpose of dominating all life in the galaxy. They overwhelm the minds of all, turning them against their own as the + Keelah@crystyll: + mindless 'Horde' or the 'Army of the Dead'. We have encountered these entities and learned of their intentions. We have interacted with them, and have learned to spot signs of their influence; a + Keelah@crystyll: + unique telepathic 'fingerprint' in a sense, left behind from being touched by one of these beings" Keri@hawkecosse#4702 looks up from the padd, "She is smart, determined, knows what it takes at times, can also be stubborn to a fault, especially with both of them in there. But despite that, once you get to know her,> Minabi@stickybuns14: *she leans back, then idly extends a hand....towards the flask that Keelah was still holding prisoner* Keelah@crystyll pauses for a sip, handing the flask back, "We know the ancient Empires of this galaxy - Iconian, Nuhar, Preserver - collaborated to halt the Horde's march eons ago, but ultimately failed. They only + Keelah@crystyll: + postponed them. We have encountered these Primevals imprisoned in subspace pocket realms; realms like the one you passed through to get here. Now consider this Captain..." Keri@hawkecosse#4702: > she is kind, compassinate and looks out for her friends and crew, doing what it is right, not doing any of it because it is easy but because it is hard and she has decided to step up." Keelah@crystyll: "If the place you passed through is a sealed realm that can only be accessed by those on the outside, and there is something within that wants to get out, what does that sound like to you?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina takes a slow sip from the flask, closing her eyes a moment. She sighs slowly* "Well, pardon me for playing devil's advocate, but history is written by the victors, I am assuming that much to be> Minabi@stickybuns14: true in this universe as much as in mine. So who is to say the old species were telling the truth about the Primevals?" Keelah@crystyll: "Because we have spoken to the Primevals ourselves. Our telepaths have seen it, stars - even the Q Continuum has intervened!" Keelah@crystyll: "But beyond all of that..." she slowly turns to hold Mina's gaze, "/I/ have felt the mind of a Primeval myself" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina holds Keelah's gaze, emerald gaze curious* "So did I. I do not doubt any of this, but I also do believe they are currently our only chance to return to our home." Keelah@crystyll: "Perhaps" she concedes, "But what will you do then? Keep running as fugitives from your own Empire? How long do you think you will keep that going before you run into the same Horde there?" Minabi@stickybuns14: "With the upgrades we already received and what we are potentially getting, we can possibly make a difference in our Empire." *Keelah, intuitive as she is, might actually sense something there* Kiera@falconecoose looks at the floor for a moment before looking up at Keri, "And you really think I am like her?" Keelah@crystyll smiles a little, "I do not know if it is the same parallel universe or not, though I suspect so given the eternal connection between the two; but our history teaches of an accidental incursion + Keelah@crystyll: + centuries ago which gave the spark of hope to a subjugated Imperial version of our Federation. But still, what of the Horde? Your Empire can not stand against an enemy that can possess the minds of+ Keelah@crystyll: + entire crews from across the galaxy. None can" Keri@hawkecosse#4702: "I do, I have seen how you look at us, the questions you have been asking and what you and...Chloe, was it? Were saying." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smiles faintly, taking another sip.* "You may be right. But could you throw away the hopes of your crew of returning home, even if that home is less than ideal?" Keelah@crystyll: "Hope is only lost if one chooses to let go of it. We know from our own history that it is possible to artificially connect our universes and transition them. What's to say that we can not offer you + Keelah@crystyll: + the same hope this Architect claims to? We are equally unknown, so no less trustworthy. But with us you at least know from hard record that there is a possibility, not just empty words" Minabi@stickybuns14: *the diminutive little Alien approaches and leans close to Mina from behind, whispering something in her ear. The Trill sighs and smiles, giving the alien a gentle, affectionate pat on the shoulder,> Minabi@stickybuns14: then looks back to Keelah* "We have no reason to trust anyone, as you say. We know an accident happened to make a crossover happen before, that doesn't sound like a better chance than the words of a> Minabi@stickybuns14: being you obviously worry about." *she narrows her eyes a bit* "I cannot trade the chance now for a vague potential down the road." Keelah@crystyll: "I hate to spell it out for you Captain, but a vague potential down the road is all you currently have. But now you share my understanding of this enemy, you should be able to predict their move. So + Keelah@crystyll: + tell me; what do you think an entity like this will do after escaping an eons-long prison sentence to be surrounded by countless potential minions?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina takes another sip and stands up, putting the flask away* "My perception is this: We have you, who have no practical knowledge of the travel between our universes beyond an 'accident'. And we > Minabi@stickybuns14: have a being clearly powerful enough to be capable of what we need and with demonstrated understanding of the bridge dimension. They will have their prey here. Letting us slip through shouldn't take > Minabi@stickybuns14: much convincing. Anything beyond that....is not my concern." *she turns to Sister Talaan* "We will take the prisoners back to the ship with us until your portal is ready." NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan nods, "That is an amenable agreement." Keelah@crystyll sighs despondently, "Then let me take this final chance to say; it has been an... interesting experience, knowing you Captain" Keelah@crystyll: "Rest assured that I will speak well of you to your counterpart from this universe once we defeat the Primevals and return to Federation space" she breathes meditatively, content to remain kneeling Minabi@stickybuns14: *she gazes to Keelah and nods* "I doubt it will be our last time talking Captain." *she gestures to Kiera and MU Rianni* "Commander, Lieutenant, let's get our guests back to the ship. No sense in > Minabi@stickybuns14: waiting here." Kiera@falconecoose stands up she sees Minabi standing, holding her hand out for the padd that she had giving Keri NPC@annpc#5570 | Talaan turns and begins leading the way back out to the transporter. Keelah@crystyll | MURianni stands promptly, encouraging her twin up Keri@hawkecosse#4702 hands that padd back over while she stands holding onto for a moment, "Always remember you have choice, and it is never to late to stand up." --- NPC@annpc#5570 FX | It has been three days since Keelah has been taken. The VF holds position, awaiting the arrival of Nuhar support, while the QanwI' reports no change in the position of either the Kassandra - NPC@annpc#5570 - or the Preserver station the Lupan call their Holy City. Presently, Lennie watches over the bridge... NPC@annpc#5570 | Gwi: "We have contact on long-range sensors, Commander!" Lendaria@crystyll snaps out of her daze, "The Nuhar?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Gwi: "Signatures match the Nuhar from what we can tell at this range. There's a dozen, no, twenty...more and more are appearing in range." Lendaria@crystyll 's eyes widen, "Those guys don't mess about do they..." NPC@annpc#5570 | Gwi: "It seems they've sent more constructs than they did to assist us at Terminu. We /are/ dealing with many more Lupan, though." NPC@annpc#5570 | TQ: "I'm picking up a hail, but it's not coming from the Nuhar." Lendaria@crystyll: "Let's just be glad they'se on our side. An' hope they don't get fed up o' comin' t'our aid..." Lendaria@crystyll looks over, "It ain't? Then where?" NPC@annpc#5570 | TQ: "It's the middle of nowhere, about half a lightyear behind us." Lendaria@crystyll: "Aight... well, put it through I guess..." she shrugs, looking to the viewscreen NPC@annpc#5570 | The visage of Commander Kayan appears on the viewscreen, with the bridge of the Lander 1 behind her, "We heard you ran into trouble. We haven't met, have we?" Lendaria@crystyll shakes her head, "No, but I recognize ya gear. Tha's Lander 1, right?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Kayan smiles and nods, "I'm Commander Kayan. You're familiar with my ship and our expedition, so I don't have to introduce that to you again. And you are?" Lendaria@crystyll: "Lendaria. An' curious t'know how ya came t'hear 'bout our current position. An' wha' exactly ya heard at tha'..." NPC@annpc#5570 | Kayan: "We arrived at Terminu not long after you departed. We were helping the Nuhar with the relief effort in the wake of the battle- turns out living starships aren't people persons." Lendaria@crystyll chuckles, "Ya ain't wrong. So ya tagged along when they'se diverted to come aid us 'ere? Can't say I'm sorry t'see th'extra support but... ya know wha' ya gettin' into 'ere?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Kayan: "We offloaded our drones to them, but we'd only began repairs on the planetary defense systems when your message came through. And don't worry, we know. We've fought the Lupan, remember?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Kayan: "And the Nuhar have plenty of data on the mobile station they've appropriated. Our Mothership might not be built for war, but you'll need something of its weight to take it on." Lendaria@crystyll: "Of course. But this's somethin' else entirely, goin' by our recon at least. Why don't ya beam on over when ya get 'ere so we can bring ya up t'speed proper alongside th'Nuhar?" NPC@annpc#5570 | Kayan: "I'll be on my way. Where's your scout ship commander, by the way? The short, fiery tempered one?" Lendaria@crystyll laughs, "Safely away from'ere - monitorin' th'Lupan" NPC@annpc#5570 | Kayan: "I can talk to the Marshalls about sending one of our recon ships to relieve her and keep an eye on the Lupan, if you want. I suspect she'll want to be here for the battle planning." Lendaria@crystyll nods, "That sounds good" NPC@annpc#5570 | Kayan: "We'll be along shortly, then. The Marshalls should join us once the Mothership is in range." Lendaria@crystyll: "We look forward t'seein' ya then" NPC@annpc#5570 | Kayan nods, "Until then." NPC@annpc#5570 FX | The call ends. Lendaria@crystyll: "Tee, summon th'senior staff an' bring 'em up t'speed, would ya?" Lendaria@crystyll | TQ nods, "Already on it!" she smiles NPC@annpc#5570 | Kelly steps into the conference room first, "I hear the Nuhar are arriving?" Lendaria@crystyll sits at her usual seat, not daring to take Keelah's meeting room spot, "Yep. An' not jus' them either" Keliaya@anncarise doesn't take Keelah's seat either as she sits down, "They brought friends?" Lexi@crystyll | Lennie nods, "Got a comm from Lander 1; they were at Terminu helpin' th'Nuhar wit' relief efforts when th'constructs got our message, so tagged along" Lexi@crystyll | Lennie: "Commander Kayan an' their Marshall - or Marshalls - 's on th'way" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "We'll take all the help we can get." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie: "They'se offered t'send a scout ship t'relieve QanwI' too" Kiera@falconecoose nods as well while rubbing her eyes, the makeup she applied not quite hiding the bags under them, "The more the merrier, especially with how many there is." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie: "Th'Nuhar fleet's inbound. Last count were more than 20 constructs; more than came to assist at Terminu" Keliaya@anncarise: "We have to deal with thirty packships and at least as many escorts. Whatever the Lupan are doing, they must be rallying everyone they can." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie nods, "Hopefully Cap'n Vix'll come back wit' some more info" Keliaya@anncarise | <C - Katie> "The An Marshalls and Commander Kayan have just beamed aboard and should be on their way now." Keliaya@anncarise nods, "Thank you, Chief." Keliaya@anncarise looks across at Lennie, "Instead of sending drones over, we can tie communications in here directly so the Nuhar can broadcast those avatars of theirs." Lexi@crystyll | <C-Lennie> "Thanks hun. Mia should be there any moment t'escort 'em up" Lexi@crystyll | Lennie looks back to Kelly with a smirk, "Ya jus' love playin' wit' them holos, don'tcha. Sounds good though!" Keliaya@anncarise chuckles, "Well, they use holos anyways. Rather than having a drone over who's going to display a holo anyways, might as well have them call right into the conference room." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie: "True enough!" Keliaya@anncarise FX | Mia enters the room with Commander Kayan and four other An, a female Vesan, a male Vesan, a female Kalan and a male Tak'an. Lexi@crystyll | Lennie looks up, "Welcome, Commander. Make yaselves at home" she smiles, gesturing to the empty seats Keliaya@anncarise | The Commander and Marshalls arrange themselves around the table. Kiera@falconecoose nods to the An when they enter Keliaya@anncarise | Kayan: "For those who aren't aware, these are Field Marshall Niavi, Marshall Aloka, Fleet Marshall Paval and Grand Marshall Solan, head of Ground Operations, Special Operations, - Keliaya@anncarise: - Fleet Operations and Tel'darash Operations respectively." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie: "Mah thanks to y'all for comin' along. Whatcha know s'far 'bout th'situation?" Keliaya@anncarise | As the introductions are made, two holograms, one of a diminutive grey alien and the other of a huge hulking alien forms in the room. Keliaya@anncarise | The An glance to the holograms before Kayan replies, "The Nuhar told us about your message. Apparently your Captain and several other crewmembers were taken by people working for the Lupan." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie nods, looking to Keira assuming she would prefer to give the tactical brief Kiera@falconecoose nods slightly before she answers "Aye, that is the short of it. These people though, we belive are from a different universe. And have pulled back with a large group of Lupan ships, around 30 > Kiera@falconecoose: > packships and as many escorts." Keliaya@anncarise | Solan: "This must be the massive Lupan fleet we've been hearing rumours of throughout the region." Keliaya@anncarise | The tiny holo speaks, its voice monotone, "We have heard word of this group as well, and we know of the facility they travel with." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie: "Their 'Holy City'" she surmises Keliaya@anncarise | The large alien holo speaks in the same voice, "Yes. The Protectors have come to worship the Progenitors as gods, and seized the station many centuries past. They have been wandering with it - Keliaya@anncarise - ever since." Keliaya@anncarise looks to the two holos, "Which constructs are you, by the way? Just so we know what to address you as." Keliaya@anncarise | Tiny Holo Alien: "I am Unwavering Defender." Keliaya@anncarise | Large Holo Alien: "I am Gallant Defender. Though there are Heretics among the constructs which volunteered to come, we are the most capable in combat and have come to-" Keliaya@anncarise | A third holo appears, this one of a Lupan, though looking a little different than actual Lupan, "I do not speak for the Heretics, but I will join this meeting." Keliaya@anncarise: "And you are?" Keliaya@anncarise | Lupan Holo: "Relentless Hunter." Keliaya@anncarise | <C - Katie> "The QanwI' has arrived and Captain Vix is requesting to beam over." Lexi@crystyll | <C-Lennie> "Thanks. Send her right up" Keliaya@anncarise | <C - Katie> "Right away, Commander." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie looks to the others, "Tha' must mean th'An recon vessels taken over now" Keliaya@anncarise | Paval nods, "Yes. Recon Two is in position and relaying data back to us now. Nothing of note in Lupan movements. Just idle patrols." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie nods, looking to the Nuhar holo's, "An' I gotta say, we really do appreciate y'all comin' t'help. Didn't rightly expect t'see so many of ya" Keliaya@anncarise | Unwavering Defender: "A total of forty-seven constructs have volunteered to assist, primarily combat builds. The future of our kind relies on the success of your mission." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie goes wide-eyed at the count Lexi@crystyll strolls in just in time to hear, "47 constructs? /Now/ it's a party!" finding a seat, she sets her bat'leth down leaning against the table and plops herself down Keliaya@anncarise | Kayan grins, "I thought you wouldn't miss it." Lexi@crystyll: "Not a chance! My warriors grow weary of hiding in the shadows watching those Lupan, they hunger for battle! So what's the plan?" Keliaya@anncarise: "That's what we're here to discuss. Now that everyone is present..." Keliaya@anncarise looks over to Kiera, "We didn't know exactly how many constructs to account for, and we didn't count on the An arriving to assist, but Tactical has been working on a tentative plan." Kiera@falconecoose looks over at Kelly before she nods slightly while brining up a holo image of the rough plan that tactical has at the moment, "As you can see we are still working on developing it, and the more > Kiera@falconecoose: > intel we have the better we will be able to formulate one. Will have to adjust it slightly due to our numbers though, but the rough idea will stay the same." Lexi@crystyll: "You know their patrols are on constant high alert and they're constantly sweeping the area with tachyon pulses. Going to make it a real bitch for us to sneak in close..." Keliaya@anncarise | Solan: "Our Recon Ships and Lander One are equipped with stealth devices as well. It's a good idea to capitalize on this somehow." Kiera@falconecoose nods slightly "Aye, the closer we can get to the captain at the others before the shooting starts the better our chances of rescuing them are." Lexi@crystyll: "Well unless you got a way to disable those tachyon sweeps, there will be no capitalizing" Keliaya@anncarise | Paval: "Perhaps we can draw them away with the ships that don't have cloaks, and have the cloaked vessels close in once the main confrontation is underway?" Lexi@crystyll grins, "It is always good not to show your full hand right away" Keliaya@anncarise | Gallant Defender: "The constructs, the Valley Forge and the Mothership should be more than sufficient to gain the attention of the Lupan." Lexi@crystyll: "That might be too much..." Keliaya@anncarise | Unwavering Defender: "The packships are not particularly mobile. Our combat builds should be able to inflict significant damage in the opening volley with our primary beams." Kiera@falconecoose: "We wouldn't have to fight them for long though if the cloaked ships can get in and rescue our people." Lexi@crystyll looks to the holos, "Remember that we want to draw their patrols out in order to dirsupt their tachyon search grid. If you hit them with all that force and then move to draw them back, they will + Lexi@crystyll: + likely see the ruse as such a strong force should not retreat so quickly" Keliaya@anncarise | Paval: "True. Perhaps a few constructs, and as the Mothership is not built for battle, perhaps it can be kept in reserve, for the chance that we may need to breach the station by force." Keliaya@anncarise | Gallant Defender: "There is a possibility we may be able to disable the Holy City's shields, but the Protectors have learned much of Progenitor technology, and our code delivery methods." Lexi@crystyll nods, "I'd still send in the Valley Forge too. Given it's renown with the Lupan, and the current situation; they will be eager to jump at it. If you can draw them out with that inadequate force + Lexi@crystyll: + first; you can then warp in the mothership and additional constructs behind the pursuing Lupan to cut them off from their base" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "And they'd expect us to be there. It would be odd for the Nuhar to suddenly launch an attack on the Holy City, while we have more than enough reason to counter-attack." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie: "What about them shields then? Soon as th'attack starts, those'll go up like ya said. So how'd we get past 'em?" Keliaya@anncarise | Gallant Defender: "I have fought alongside the station that is now their Holy City. I possess both their access codes and can formulate a viral code to infiltrate the station, but it is - Keliaya@anncarise: - possible the Protectors have learned to counter both. There is no way to test it, and it is not a capability I would suggest we count on." Lexi@crystyll | Lennie: "Still worth havin' tha' chance t'take into things wit' us I'd-a say" Keliaya@anncarise | Relentless Hunter: "Nuhar code is most adaptive when deployed by a construct. I possess a cloaking device. I can join the stealth vessels and carry the code to implement." Lexi@crystyll 's eyes narrow suspciously on the Hunter's image, "You..." Keliaya@anncarise | Relentless Hunter: "As I have stated, you are no longer my target. We share the same objective now." Lexi@crystyll gives a curt nod Keliaya@anncarise: "So we'll have three groups then? The initial bait, the group that warps in to cut the Lupan off from reinforcements, and the stealth group?" Lexi@crystyll | Lennie: "Sounds like a plan" Lexi@crystyll: "What about the wildcard - this rogue Starfleet ship?" Keliaya@anncarise | Kayan: "Rogue Starfleet ship?" Lexi@crystyll taps her wristcomp and changes the central projection to a rotating image of the Kassandra, "The ones who managed abduct Keelah & Co." Kiera@falconecoose shakes her head slightly "Not actually a rogue ship. We belive it is from another universe." Keliaya@anncarise nods, "One of many parallel dimensions, where they have similar design and technologies, but radically different methods and philosophies." Keliaya@anncarise | Paval: "We're familiar with the concept. Do you know what it's motivations are, and why it's working for the Lupan?" Lexi@crystyll: "Yeah, no kidding. Well wherever they're from, they're all cosied up with the Lupan now. And that ship of theirs is no shrinking violet. Don't let the outline fool you, this is far more than an + Lexi@crystyll: + outdated Galaxy" Keliaya@anncarise: "What we've seen of it suggests it was built for combat, and it comes from a universe where war and conflict are common, even appreciated by many of the inhabitants." Keliaya@anncarise: "The Valley Forge should be able to stand up to it in combat, as should a Nuhar Watcher. But how it will respond to the attack is more difficult to guess." Lexi@crystyll nods, "Which makes them a wildcard. Unknown motives, unknown capability... unknown outcome" Keliaya@anncarise: "We can't account for everything in a plan. We may just have to see how it responds and act accordingly." Keliaya@anncarise: "Most likely I think it'll do one of three things- join the Lupan forces in the battle, abandon the Lupan and leave or do its own thing separate from the Lupan. It's only the last option we - Keliaya@anncarise: - have to worry about. If it joins the battle, we can just treat it like a more dangerous packship, and if it leaves...I guess we should still watch our backs." Keliaya@anncarise | Kayan: "What special capabilities does this ship have?" Lexi@crystyll shrugs a little, "We had little engagement with them, but a chance to observe at length. They share similar upgrades to the Valley Forge for one thing" Lexi@crystyll: "Their main weapon too, this lance, carries a signature not unlike your primary antiproton beams" Lexi@crystyll: "Beyond that, we've recorded a multitude of heavy weapons arrays and banks across the ship, she was no doubt built for war" Lexi@crystyll taps again and the image highlights to show the indicated firepower Keliaya@anncarise: "They have cloaking capability too. If they do sneak up on a vessel, they'll be capable of inflicting heavy damage, maybe even destroying their target before it can retaliate." Keliaya@anncarise | Solan: "The Mothership is designed with anti-cloaking equipment, but we'll have to be careful not to reveal our own stealth group with our tachyon and antiproton arrays." Keliaya@anncarise | Paval: "Maybe the stealth group can circle around the far side of the station, and we'll only sweep on the side where the combat is ongoing." Lexi@crystyll nods, "It's worth the accommodation, as that ship will likely cloak as soon as the fighting starts. At least, that's what I would do" Keliaya@anncarise | Solan nods, "We'll have some of our arrays reserved for sweeping, then. It should make it impossible for them to sneak up on the main battle. Just let us know if you plan to approach us, but - Keliaya@anncarise: - you should be safe approaching the station." Lexi@crystyll: "And what about getting your people out? Beam out is fine assuming this virus takes the shields out and they can be isolated among the Lupan" Lexi@crystyll: "In other words, they aren't mixed in with the crew on that wildcard ship" Lexi@crystyll: "But what if that's not the case, are you prepared to go to ground?" Keliaya@anncarise | Kayan: "Lander One is built for personnel insertion, hence the name. The other Recon Ships will carry some Tel'darash personal combat specialists as well." Keliaya@anncarise | Niavi: "We might not be the Andarash, but we can handle ourselves on ground." Lexi@crystyll nods, "Good. My warriors will be ready as well" Keliaya@anncarise | Aloka: "We'll have Special Operations personnel on the Recons and Lander as well, if a stealth insertion is more favourable." Keliaya@anncarise: "I think we have everything covered. Anything else to address?" Lexi@crystyll looks around, nothing more to add for herself Kiera@falconecoose shakes her head slightly, have been hapy to remain quiet for most of the meeting Keliaya@anncarise | Solan: "All sounds good to me. There's plenty of uncertainties, but plans never go perfectly anyways. We've all seen each other in action, and I trust everyone here to be capable of adjusting - Keliaya@anncarise: - to the situation when we need to." Keliaya@anncarise | Unwavering Defender: "We will await your signal to proceed." Keliaya@anncarise nods and stands, "Let's do our preparations quickly, then. Every minute we wait, the Captain and the others might be in trouble."