ST:TTV527 | "The Holy City Pt. II"

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 | Several hours after the meeting with their allied reinforcements. the ships are ready to proceed with the plan... Keliaya@anncarise steps out onto the bridge as the turbolift doors open, looking to Kirstine, "All personnel reporting ready?" Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 looks over her shoulder when she is addressed, "Aye, Commander. Everyone is reporting they are ready." Keliaya@anncarise steps over to the engineering station, now occupied by Lieutenant Erik Thorkildsen, "Ship status?" Keliaya@anncarise | Erik: "All systems are green and functioning at maximum efficiency." Keliaya@anncarise looks to Kiera, "Tactical, ready for combat?" Kiera@falconecoose nods as she looks up from the console, "Aye, Commander. All stations reporting, all systems green across the board." Keliaya@anncarise nods, looking back to Kirstine, "Signal the Nuhar who are following us in the first group that we're ready to go." Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 "Aye, Aye." sends the signal to the Nuhar that they are ready to go. Keliaya@anncarise takes a deep breath, giving Lennie a glance before finally deciding to take a seat in the command chair. Keliaya@anncarise looks ahead to the helm, "Fisher, take us out as soon as the Nuhar have formed up." Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "Aye Commander." Keliaya@anncarise | A few seconds pass, then the Valley Forge warps out, the stars ahead turning into long streaks of light. Keliaya@anncarise looks around at everyone as they head out, "Everyone here on the bridge have been in service for a few years. We've all seen combat. Lived through war. This is nothing new." Keliaya@anncarise: "Our objective is the recovery of our Captain, First Officer and other missing crew. But we don't risk our own lives or our allies needlessly. Getting out people back won't mean anything if there's - Keliaya@anncarise: - no ship to get back to. We achieve our objective through all means we have, but not anything too reckless." Keliaya@anncarise looks ahead again, "ETA?" Keliaya@anncarise | Fisher: "Fifty-two minutes." --- Keliaya@anncarise | Meanwhile on the Kassandra... Rianni@crystyll: "Captain, the Lupan are reporting multiple incoming vessels at high warp. 9... 10... no, 12 Nuhar Watchers and..." she turns with a slight grin, "The Valley Forge" Keliaya@anncarise | Volkov: "Confirmed, Captain. They have just appeared on our long-range sensors as well." Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina glances to the viewscreen, nodding at Rianni's words* "Understood. Tactical, engage cloak. We'll let the Lupan deal with the initial aggressions here. Lieutenant Tierno, keep an eye on the * Minabi@stickybuns14: Portal. I want to know when it opens right away. Helm, keep us in a position that makes a tachyon sweep unlikely to hit us." Kiera@falconecoose nods while she takes the ship to alert while engaging the cloak, "Aye, Captain." Rianni@crystyll nods and concentrates on the unfamiliar console Keliaya@anncarise | Masaki: "Aye aye, Captain. Moving into position." Rianni@crystyll: "Captain..." she snarls in disgust, "The Lupan are challenging our reason for cloaking and want to 'be sure it is for a planned stealth manouver'..." Rianni@crystyll makes no effort to sugar coat her distaste for Lupan's challenge Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smirks faintly* "Sure they do. Let them know we will be most effective if we strike from the shadows." *another smirk at Rianni's obvious distaste* "You can add a snarky comment." Rianni@crystyll sends a suitably worded response with a satisfied smile Rianni@crystyll chuckles at the acknowledgement back from them. It's so easy to push the buttons of such sub-humans Keliaya@anncarise | The Kass remains cloaked, holding out of range of tachyon scans from the battlefield... --- Keliaya@anncarise | Thirty minutes later... Rianni@crystyll | Fisher: "3 minutes to sublight, Commander" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "Thank you, Fisher." Keliaya@anncarise looks over to Kirstine, "Advise the Nuhar to concentrate enough firepower on one packship to destroy it, just to show the Lupan we mean business. Focus the rest on the escorts, they'll be the - Keliaya@anncarise: - greater threat to us, especially once we start backing up to lure them out." Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 nods while she sends the message to the Nuhar, "Aye, Aye, Captain. Sending the advice now." Keliaya@anncarise looks to Kiera on the other side, "Same for us. Prioritize the escort ships and deploy ablative armour." Kiera@falconecoose keys in the command to deploy the ablative armour, "Aye, Captain. Already got the targeting package loaded." Rianni@crystyll | Fisher: "Sublight in 30 seconds" Keliaya@anncarise: "Red alert. All stations, prepare for battle." Keliaya@anncarise FX | As the ablative armour finishes deploying over the Valley Forge, the ship drops out of sublight, flanked by twelve Nuhar Watchers. Kiera@falconecoose takes the ship to red alert, "Taking ship to red alert, Captain." Keliaya@anncarise: "Fisher, move us into weapons range. Fire when ready." Keliaya@anncarise | In front of them, a huge wall of Lupan ships are arrayed in a defensive position between them and the Preserver station. Kiera@falconecoose activates the targeting package to engage the Lupan ships with phasers the moment they are in range Keliaya@anncarise | They move into range shortly, the phaser arrays opening fire though eclipsed by the thick red main beams of the Nuhar Watchers. Flashes reverberate through the Lupan formation ahead as several - Keliaya@anncarise: - of their ships are hit and explode. Kiera@falconecoose: "Multiple Lupan ships, hit and destroyed, Captain. Current count has, one packship and seven escorts." Keliaya@anncarise: "Good. Keep getting their attention." Keliaya@anncarise | The bridge rocks slightly as the Lupan return fire, and the space between the two groups is filled with beams, bolts and torpedoes of varying colours. Kiera@falconecoose grips her console slightly for stability, "Armour down to 95%, Captain, will do." Keliaya@anncarise: "Fisher, start falling back and drawing them out." Rianni@crystyll | Fisher acknowledges, strategically maneuvering the ship to feign a retreat Keliaya@anncarise | The Nuhar Watchers follow suit, drawing the eager Lupan defenders forward, both sides maintaining fire. Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, armour down to 80% integrity." Keliaya@anncarise: "Just a little more..." Keliaya@anncarise | A few seconds pass and the VF's point defense turrets flare up, taking out a salvo of torpedoes coming at them. The ship rocks slightly as one detonates by the hull. Keliaya@anncarise: "Lieutenant Yalul, signal the flanking group to warp in." Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 steadies herself against the console, "Aye, aye!" quickly sending the signal Keliaya@anncarise | The bridge shakes a few more times from incoming fire. As the shooting continues and the Lupan begin clearly overwhelming the small group of attackers... Keliaya@anncarise ...the massive, seven-and-a-half kilometre wide circular An Mothership warps in between the Lupan and their slightly larger station, supported by either side by two imposing Nuhar Defenders and - Keliaya@anncarise: - a number of other Watchers. The Lupan begin turning their attention to the larger force that arrived, but not before the constructs unleash their antiproton beams, destroying multiple packships. Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain! Armour down to 60%, but the Lupan's seem to be shifting their fire to the reinforcements." Keliaya@anncarise: "Press the attack. Support our reinforcements." Kiera@falconecoose "Aye, Aye!" she shifts the targeting package into a more offensive one than it was previously in to try and press the advantage Rianni@crystyll | Lennie: "Cap'n, multiple vessels inbound on th'far side o'the Holy City. 1, no 10... 20... Goddess, 50 contacts!" Keliaya@anncarise: "More Lupan?" Rianni@crystyll | Lennie: "Tryin' a get a positive read, but nothin' solid at this range yet. Counts goin' up though..." Keliaya@anncarise: "We proceed with the plan for now. Get the stealth group in. If the Nuhar can bring down the Holy City's shields, we'll hopefully have our people and be gone before they arrive." Keliaya@anncarise: "If not, we may have to pull back." Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "Sending the signal to the stealth group, now captain." Rianni@crystyll | Lennie: "Y'know if it comes to tha', we ain't gettin' another chance like this at 'em. They'll be more ready th'next time" Keliaya@anncarise nods, "I know, but taking on any more Lupan than we already are would be suicide." Rianni@crystyll | Lennie, "True enough. Still tryin' a get a read on them inbounds" Keliaya@anncarise: "Tactical, keep the Lupan distracted. I hope the Nuhar code can work..." Kiera@falconecoose: "Doing what I can, Captain." Rianni@crystyll | Lennie: "Count's over 200 now. Still no positive ID" Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "Captain, just got a message from the Relentless Hunter that their codes are not working, but they are trying a work around." Keliaya@anncarise: "Did the Sisterhood call every pack out there...?" Rianni@crystyll | Fisher peers over, " A 'work around'? Damn, Mia rubbed off on them more than I thought..." Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain! Armour is down to 50%, that work around better be quick." Keliaya@anncarise nods, muttering, "Come on..." Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain! The structure’s shields are down!" Keliaya@anncarise breathes a sigh of relief. "Continue keeping the Lupan distracted." Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "Captain, I have an incoming hail, from Lander one." Keliaya@anncarise: "Put it through." Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 nods while she puts it through and onto the main screen Keliaya@anncarise | Commander Kayan appears on the viewscreen, "Commander. Our sensors can't see any biosignatures matching your Captain or any other species from your ship, but we are detecting a large number of - Keliaya@anncarise: - bipedal lifeforms concentrated in what's probably a prison area." Keliaya@anncarise: "They're not on the station? Lieutenant Yalul, signal /all/ ships to fire to disable and scan for our people on Lupan vessels!" Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 nods while she sends the signal to all the ships Keliaya@anncarise looks back to the viewscreen, "We can't leave these people to the mercy of the Lupan if we can help it. Evacuate all you can." Rianni@crystyll | Lennie: "What 'bout th'fake Fed ship? They'se th'ones wha' took 'em. Maybe they'se holdin' our people?" Keliaya@anncarise | Kayan nods, "We'll start evacuation immediately." Keliaya@anncarise FX | The comm ends. Kiera@falconecoose looks up from her console, "I was about to say the same thing as the Commander, if it was me and those prisoners were my bargaining chip, I would not let them out my sight." Keliaya@anncarise: "That's...very likely, but we already have the Mothership sweeping the field and it has better anti-cloaking scans than anything else." Keliaya@anncarise: "If they don't show up..." Rianni@crystyll | Lennie: "Sensor resolutions' improvin' on th'inbound. Counts settled at 300 vessels, interrogatin' scan data now..." Rianni@crystyll | Lennie: "Tha's why we couldn't get a straight on 'em, they'se all different! Looks like a ragtag fleet wit' as many species together as we saw at Terminu, maybe more" Keliaya@anncarise: "Terminu. Their population is mostly refugees from civilizations devastated by the Horde..." Rianni@crystyll | Lennie: "Could it be them?" Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, the Lupan ships appear to be breaking off." Keliaya@anncarise FX | On the viewscreen, the remaining twenty two packships and escorts dart through the firing Nuhar and An vessels, the first ten packships that makes the trip forming on on the other side of - Keliaya@anncarise: - the Preserver station. Keliaya@anncarise: "Whatever they are, the Lupan are viewing them as more of a threat than we are." Rianni@crystyll | Fisher: "That's kind of insulting..." Keliaya@anncarise: "They're still distracted. Lieutenant Yalul, tell all ships to stand down, but have the stealth group continue the evacuation from the Holy City." Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "Aye, sending the comms now, Captain." Rianni@crystyll | Lennie: "ETA for the inbound fleet is 5 minutes" Keliaya@anncarise FX | Five minutes pass in tense silence, before suddenly the space in front of the Lupan ships are crowded by a hundred motley ships that begin firing at once. Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "Captain, I am getting multiple comms from the ships evacuating people about them suddenly going berserk and attacking the crews." Rianni@crystyll | Lennie:" Goddess... Horde influence?" Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, the Nuhar are moving to engage the newcomers as well." Keliaya@anncarise nods, "It's them. Signal the An ships, Lieutenant. Assist the Lupan." Keliaya@anncarise: "Helm, take us in. Tactical...fire at will." Keliaya@anncarise | Meanwhile on the Kassandra... Keliaya@anncarise | The Kassandra watches as the entire fight plays out, safely out of reach of the An Mothership's sweeps. Minabi@stickybuns14: "Tactical analysis. What are the odds right now Commander?" *she peers over her shoulder to Kiera* Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, things are not looking good for the Lupan fleet. They were baited in to a trap and then had it sprung onto them, a smart move from the other fleet if rescuing the prisoners is a priority." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smirks faintly* "Sounds about right. Any activity from the Portal Lieutenant?" *this one directed at Rianni* Kiera@falconecoose: "However, against this new threat, the only chance they have is their better tech if they don't get overrun." Rianni@crystyll: "Maybe...?" she tries to make sense of the readings, "Looks like a build up of tachyon particles at the tip of the Holy City" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she frowns faintly* "Alright...helm, take us in slowly. APproach the Portal. We want to be nearby when it opens. Try to remain undetected for as long as possible." Keliaya@anncarise | Masaki: "Aye aye, Captain." Keliaya@anncarise | The Kassandra moves in towards the station cautiously as the battle continues in the background... Minabi@stickybuns14: "Tierno...do we have any readings on these newcomers?" Rianni@crystyll: "Got a few hundred strong. Right old mix of ships..." she grins, "...kind of like those hapless rebel fleets we used to see back home" Minabi@stickybuns14: "So...numbers, not quality, eh?" *she frowns faintly* Keliaya@anncarise FX | Everyone on the Kass suddenly feels a deep, inexplicable wave of unease come over them... Keliaya@anncarise | On the viewscreen, the veritable wave of enemy ships manage to punch a hole in the defensive line and they all head for it, a number of them pouring through like water through a crack. Rianni@crystyll wobbles in her seat, holding her head at the sudden sensation Keliaya@anncarise | The VF, one of the Nuhar Defenders and a few An ships move to stem the flow, but suddenly find themselves surrounded by enemies on both sides as a result. Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina frown deepens* "Is that....the Horde that they were talking about?" *she pinches the bridge of her nose* Keliaya@anncarise | As the enemy ships come towards the Holy City, it opens fire with a combination of antiproton beams and Nuhar-style proton bursts, thinning some of the incoming wave but not halting the tide. Kiera@falconecoose grimaces slightly before she shakes her head, "Captain...what are your orders." Keliaya@anncarise | Suddenly, a stream of light emerges from the tip of the station, forming what appears to be a large rift in space. Minabi@stickybuns14: "Stay....there it is! Get close to the portal! Get ready to scan and capture whatever comes through!" Rianni@crystyll looks up at the screen, "I'm going to go ahead and guess /that/ is the portal" Keliaya@anncarise | The Kass darts for the portal, and it draws closer on the viewscreen. Kiera@falconecoose frowns while she looks at the portal, alerting her teams to be on standby just in case. Minabi@stickybuns14: "As soon as we have a scan on whatever comes through, disengage cloak, beam that thing aboard and then get ready for battle." Rianni@crystyll: "One small ship emerging from the partal. Tech reads similar to the Holy City itself" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Lifesigns?" Rianni@crystyll: "One, barely. It's faint... could be in some kind of stasis" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Laski, decloak! Tierno, lock on and beam directly to the brig. Shields to full once transfer is complete and keep us in range of the portal so we can use it once we have what we need." Kiera@falconecoose: "Decloaking, now!" Rianni@crystyll nods and tries to get a transporter lock Keliaya@anncarise | Rianni gets a lock, beaming the faint lifesign and the pod it is connected to into the brig! Rianni@crystyll: "We got it! Whatever 'it' is..." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Alright, head to the portal! Laski, get a team to bring our guest to the bridge!" Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain! Getting reports that they have broken free after being taken out of the pod...they seem to possess some sort of telekinetic capability." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Oh for crying out...." *she growls and punches a command into her armrest* "Soma, Mika, apprehend the one we just beamed in and bring him to the bridge. You're free to use everything at your* Minabi@stickybuns14: disposal as long as they stay alive." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she peers behind herself* "Commander, have your squads provide cover....but stay out of their way." Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, teams say he seems to be confused but they are closing in on having him cornered." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Alright....alright...let's try to just ask him to come up here. We need some answers quick." The Architect@anncarise FX | Two minutes later, the turbolift doors open, and a bipedal alien steps out, flanked by Soma and Mika and two security officers with weapons trained on him. Minabi@stickybuns14: *stands to turn and face the newcomer* "Welcome aboard the Kassandra. Now...will you keep your promise?" The Architect@anncarise: "The...Kassandra? What is the Kassandra?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she frowns.* "Our ship....you remember us, right?" *she points to Rianni and Kiera* "You were in their heads...and mine." Rianni@crystyll peers around curiously The Architect@anncarise | The alien's eyes focus on Minabi after a moment, as if he was still waking up, "No, you are...my Children. Our Children. But you had not yet awakened when I had gone to sleep." The Architect@anncarise: "I apologize, but I do not recognize you, nor recall ever having made a promise." Kiera@falconecoose keeps her hand on her phaser pistol while watching the unknown alien Rianni@crystyll: "Skipper, this doesn't seem much like the thing that spoke to me..." The Architect@anncarise | His gaze trails to the viewscreen as there is a flash of light. The portal abruptly vanishes as torpedoes strike the tip of the Holy City... Minabi@stickybuns14: *Minabi narrows her eyes and then she frowns* "Status of the portal and the combat?" she asks of Rianni and Kiera* The Architect@anncarise: "What is occurring here?" Rianni@crystyll checks on the portal Minabi@stickybuns14: "I don't really have time to explain it all. We are not from this universe. We need your help to get back through the portal to our universe. Can you do this?" Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, the structure is taking heavy damage, without its shields it is being blasted apart." Rianni@crystyll: "The portal has closed, but the tachyon signatures are bouncing around all over that station" The Architect@anncarise shakes his head, his gaze still focused on the screen, "I am the Architect of Life, not the Architect of Machines. My knowledge on such devices are...limited." The Architect@anncarise: "That is one of our stations. Who is attacking it? Are there any of my people left on it?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina growls and looks to the screen, then settles back down* Minabi@stickybuns14: "Great..." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Commander...status of the battle?" Rianni@crystyll sighs wearily, "Skipper, the Lupan are demanding custody of this... 'God' of theirs" she sneers back over her shoulder towards the Architect Kiera@falconecoose: "The holy city is all but gone, the Lupan and other forces seem to be holding but only because the bulk of the hostiles are focused on the holy city. It does not look good for either fleet, the > Minabi@stickybuns14: "tell them to kindly mind their own business. I feel like they have bigger problems at the moment." *she snaps* Kiera@falconecoose: > hostile ships have them flanked, but the flanking ships are still focusing on the holy city instead of exploiting the flank." The Architect@anncarise: "These attackers...they must be here to target us. My people. Me..." Rianni@crystyll grins and puts Terran diplomacy to work in her response The Architect@anncarise: "You claim I made you a promise? What for?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she frowns* "Bring Captain Se'Lai to the bridge ASAP." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she snaps that to Kiera* Minabi@stickybuns14: *then to the Architect* "To bring us home...strong enough to be free." Kiera@falconecoose quickly contacts Wescott to have one of her team to bring Se'Lai to the bridge The Architect@anncarise: "I know not from whence you came. I cannot bring you home. Is that why you freed me? Because of this promise?" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Yes! Why else?" *she growls* The Architect@anncarise: "There is a presence to these enemies. A presence I have not felt in a long time. Do you not think it is not too coincidental that they strike at the moment of my awakening?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she snarls and stares at the Architect* "I don't -care- for your war. I wanted to get my ship home. I needed power to do that. You are not the one we spoke to, so this conversation is moot. Now we > Minabi@stickybuns14: have to figure out what to do here. Helm, plot a course to the fringes of the battle. Let them kill each other for all I care." Rianni@crystyll | The turbolift door opens and Keelah is escorted out behind the Architect, gaze instantly settling on him, "Well... this is quite the unexpected turn of events" Kiera@falconecoose looks at Keelah as she is brought out, nodding to the security guard with her Minabi@stickybuns14: *she smirks and looks to Kiera* "Status of the Valley Forge?" The Architect@anncarise examines Keelah, then looks back to Mina, "They will come for you. You cannot outrun them." Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, it is taking heavy fire and has almost lost all its ablative armour." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Tierno...the Portal is still closed?" *she stares at the screen ahead of her* Rianni@crystyll | Keelah perks a brow, taking in the view on screen, "Impressive given the numbers out there. You see, Captain? It is as I first told you; it is not the sole figurehead atop a crew roster that makes the + Rianni@crystyll: + difference, but the morality that binds her whole crew together" Rianni@crystyll tries to make sense of the scattered tachyon readings to give a straight answer Rianni@crystyll shakes her head, "No sign of the portal now, Skipper. The tachyon readings have completely dispersed, and the station itself isn't far behind..." Rianni@crystyll | Keelah looks to the viewscreen, shaking her head, "What a waste..." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she closes her eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath* The Architect@anncarise: "Run or fight, you must decide quickly, or the enemy will decide for you." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Helm...reverse course. Take us straight towards the Valley Forge. Laski, all weapons fully charged. Focus fire on the largest target and fire the lance. Use the planet busters on the larger targets.> Minabi@stickybuns14: Tierno, make sure when we are in position, we beam the architect and our prisoners to the Forge." *she opens her eyes, narrowing them* "Let them have a taste of Terran might." The Architect@anncarise smiles quietly as he watches. Rianni@crystyll glances back a moment, eyes narrowing with a nod of resolve as she turns back to her console, "Aye, Captain!" The Architect@anncarise | Masaki: "Reversing course, Captain." The Architect@anncarise | The Kassandra turns and heads past the wreck of the Preserver station towards the battle, where a number of enemy ships still stand between them and the Valley Forge. Kiera@falconecoose nods slightly, a small smile on her face while she turns away from Keelah, though from getting to fire the planet buster or from the hope of making a life or at least a name here, not even she > Kiera@falconecoose: > knows, "Aye, Aye captain. Charging the Main Cannon." while she starts picking targets for the phasers Minabi@stickybuns14: "Divert reserve power to shields. I want them to stay as strong as possible until we get in transporter range." *she looks to Keelah* "Maybe they work well without you, but I am pretty sure they work> Minabi@stickybuns14: even better with you there." *she peers back to Rianni* "Prepare to transport Captain Se'Lai, the Architect and the prisoners ot the Forge when we can." The Architect@anncarise | Some of the smaller enemy ships notices the Kass first, moving in to intercept. Rianni@crystyll | Keelah gives a courteous nod, "Thank you Captain" she smiles, "It would seem you are no so different from your counterpart in this universe after all" Rianni@crystyll nods and prepares to transport Kiera@falconecoose would send the order to Wescott to take the other prisoners to the transport pads and to make sure they get there ASAP while she starts firing the phaser arrays at the smaller ships. Minabi@stickybuns14: *Minabi simply smirks and raises a hand upon which the diminutive guards would move to gently push the Architect to the turbolift doors to escort him to the Transporter room.* The Architect@anncarise | The smaller ships are torn apart by the Kassandra's phaser fire as the ship blasts past them. One of the larger ships moves into their way, flanked by several small ones. The Architect@anncarise follows along. Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, larger ship approaching. Main cannon has a target." Minabi@stickybuns14: "Do not slow down. Target the lance. Full power. Fire when ready." Kiera@falconecoose with the order given, she quickly taps away on her console, sliding the a bar before firing the cannon straight at the large ship. Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina smirks faintly* "Hail the Valley Forge." Rianni@crystyll hails them --- The Architect@anncarise FX | The Valley Forge bridge rocks violently as enemy fire pummels the ship. Kiera@falconecoose: "Commander, ablative armour is failing!" The Architect@anncarise | Kelly: "Switch over to shields! Focus fire on the most technologically advance-" The Architect@anncarise | The bridge shakes again. Sparks fly as the lights flicker for a moment. As they come back on, Kelly cries out in pain, doubling over before collapsing off the chair. Kiera@falconecoose braces herself on the console, quickly switching to shields before she quickly moves over to Kelly, motioning for one of the other tactical officers to take over for a moment, > Kiera@falconecoose: > but steps back to her console as she sees Lennie already moving Keelah@crystyll | Lennie rushes over to her, tapping her combadge, "Computer, EMH to bridge; command priority" The Architect@anncarise | The EMH appears on the bridge, "What is the nature of the medical emergency?" Keelah@crystyll | Lennie points to Kelly, "Her" turning her attention to the fight, "Laski, ya heard th'Commander. Switch t'normal shields an' focus fire" she braces on the chair as the ship is rocked before + Keelah@crystyll: + slinking into it Kiera@falconecoose nods slightly while bracing herself on the console "Already in action, Commander." The Architect@anncarise | The EMH retrieves a nearby tricorder and runs it over Kelly, "Commander Keliaya is physiologically in perfect condition. However, she is unconscious. I can transport her to sickbay if you like." Keelah@crystyll | Lennie glances back, "Do wha'ever ya thinks best, Doc" The Architect@anncarise | The EMH nods and disappears. A second later, Kelly disappears into a transporter beam. The Architect@anncarise | On the viewscreen, the shields flicker as the VF gets hit again... The Architect@anncarise | Then there is a flash as a nearby ship explodes, then another, and another, before Kassandra dives into view amidst the explosions. Keelah@crystyll | Lennie: "Fisher!" Keelah@crystyll | Fisher: "Way ahead of you!" he calls back over his shoulder, firing the port saucer drive to quickly pivot the VF over and bank around the sudden Kassandra Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "Commander, incoming hail...from the Kassandra!" Keelah@crystyll | Lennie: "Wha'...?" shakes the doubt from her mind, "On screen" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Hi there Valley Forge." *Mina is seated in the command chair this time* Minabi@stickybuns14: "Seems like you're in a bit of a tough spot." Keelah@crystyll | Lennie: "Jus' th'same one you'se are all in" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Yeah well...sit tight while we draw their fire. Prepare to lower shields on our mark so we can give you back your crew and a special guest." Keelah@crystyll | Lennie narrows her eyes suspiciously, "Y'all must be desperate t' try an' pull tha' one on us. Ya really expect us t'just drop our shields for ya?" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Look...you can take our help, or you can leave it. We will draw enemy fire. When my OPS Officer gives a signal, you can lower your shields and get your officers back or you can be a stubborn asshat* Minabi@stickybuns14: and let them stay here. Your choice Commander. See you on the other side." Minabi@stickybuns14: *she cuts the signal* Keelah@crystyll | Lennie tilts her head, considering the Terran before smirking at the attitude, "Not like we'se needin' shields t'keep them at bay anyway. Aight, we'll play along; Move us clear an' stand by for + Keelah@crystyll: + their signal" The Architect@anncarise FX | On the viewscreen, the Kassandra opens fire in all directions, drawing the fire of the various mismatched enemy ships around them. Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "They have sent the signal, commander. On your order." The Architect@anncarise | Multiple enemy ships return fire on Kassandra, the shots impacting the hull as its shields are lowered. Keelah@crystyll | Lennie leans forward as she watches, "Well I'll-a be damned, they'se really doin' it..." The Architect@anncarise | Incoming torpedoes are shot down, but beams and bolts leave scorch marks across the hull. Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "Commander, waiting for your order to lower our shields." Keelah@crystyll | Lennie: "Well if they'se dropped shields I assume they'se signallin' ready t'transport. Lower shields, disengage scatterin' an' give 'em coordinates" Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 nods quickly before she lowers the shields and the scattering before sending the coordinates to the Kassandra, "Aye, Aye, Commander." The Architect@anncarise FX | A few seconds later, Keelah, Zee, Rianni and Keri appear on the bridge along with the strange, almost non-descript looking alien. Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 the moment they have appeared on the bridge and the transporter cycle has finished, she raises the shields again and reactives the scattering Keelah@crystyll | Lennie's eyes go wide and she grins happily, "Cap'n!" before snapping back to the moment, "Restore shields an' take th'heat off th'Terrans" Kiera@falconecoose: "Aye, Aye, Commander. Opening fire." Keelah@crystyll looks around, smiling with relief to be back. She looks briefly to the Architect, "My apologies, but formal introductions shall have to wait. We must secure the situation first. Please remain here + Keelah@crystyll: + and brace yourself" she indicates an empty side console seat as she moves to relieve Lennie The Architect@anncarise nods, "As you wish. I am but your guest." Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | Kassandra raises shields again having taken quite substantial damage, but moving away now firing indiscriminately at enemies. Keelah@crystyll: "Tactical, report" Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, 37 hostile ships still in the fight. Shields are at 50% and minor damage across the ship." Keelah@crystyll: "Allied forces?" Kiera@falconecoose: "They now outnumber the enemy but a number have already warped away." Kiera@falconecoose: "Got a report here, Captain. Lupan are down to a dozen packships and 25 escorts. The Nuhar have lost 5 of their constructs, the An have a lost a scout, two defense ship and their mothership has taken> Kiera@falconecoose: > light damage. And the Lupan holy city is gone, it is just wreckage now." Keelah@crystyll: "We'll cover the Kassandra, take up a defensive position and redistribute shields to compensate" The Architect@anncarise | On the viewscreen, QanwI', the Lander One and two Lupan escorts swoop over an enemy target, obliterating it as they move on to the next. Kiera@falconecoose: "Affirm, redistributing shields as we move in, Captain." Keelah@crystyll: "I see Captain Vix is enjoying herself..." Keelah@crystyll: "What do we know about these enemy forces. Are they confirmed Horde influence?" The Architect@anncarise | One of the larger enemy ships chase after the Kassandra, before a red beam from one of the Nuhar Defenders obliterates it in one shot. The Architect@anncarise | Erik: "Not confirmed, but all the evidence points towards it." Keelah@crystyll looks around, registering that Kelly is not present but pushing the thought from her mind, "Chief, how familiar are you with the technology behind our suppressive implants?" The Architect@anncarise | Erik: "It's mostly Kazra's work, but I know the theory behind them and an idea of how they work." Keelah@crystyll nods, "My time of incarceration on the Terran vessel gave me plenty of time to contemplate. And I have an idea" she approaches his console The Architect@anncarise | Erik: "What're you thinking, Captain?" Keelah@crystyll: "That a properly configured pulse from the main deflector could have the same effect, even just to cause a brief disruption to their influence. It may just be sufficient to throw their forces into + Keelah@crystyll: + disarray" The Architect@anncarise | Erik: "That'll eat into our remaining power, but it should work..." Keelah@crystyll: "Set it up" turning back to her seat, "Inform all allied forces to stand by for a window of opportunity... and fire to disable where possible" The Architect@anncarise | Erik: "Aye Captain. Setting up the disruptor pulse..." The Architect@anncarise | A few minutes later, Erik announces, "We're all set." Keelah@crystyll nods, "Signal the fleet... and fire the pulse" The Architect@anncarise | A pulse emits outward from the VF's deflector, and the lights and consoles on the bridge flicker momentarily... Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain...the enemy ships have just stopped doing anything." Keelah@crystyll: "Do we have power left in the arrays?" Kiera@falconecoose: "Very minimal, Captain. But the remaining allied ships are doing a good job of dealing with the rest of the enemies." The Architect@anncarise | The consoles and lights flicker across the bridge some more. The Architect@anncarise | Erik: "We can't hold this for much longer..." Keelah@crystyll nods, "No need for overkill then. Focus our reserves on essential systems" Keelah@crystyll glances back, "Keep them down as long as you can before we risk vulnerability ourselves" The Architect@anncarise | A few seconds later, some of the enemy ships begin moving again. The Architect@anncarise | Erik: "That's all we have." The Architect@anncarise | The last of the ships are quickly finished off by the remaining allied ships, disabled and left adrift, with a few exploding from the damage. Keelah@crystyll: "Let us hope it was enough..." Minabi@stickybuns14: FX | Kassandra, having fought until now, appears to be angling to leave. Keelah@crystyll sees this on the viewscreen, "Hail the Kassandra" Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702 "Aye, Captain." quickly sends a hail to the Kassandra Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina pops into view. There's some sparks flying on Kassandra's bridge, undoubtedly from the direct fire they received while their shields were down* Minabi@stickybuns14: "Captain. You look good in that chair. Minabi@stickybuns14: " Keelah@crystyll smiles, "Likewise. Suits you far more than the outside of an agonizer booth. So... what now?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina shrugs her shoulders and looks around* "We're going to head off. We have some repairs to do, and...likely a mutiny to quell." Keelah@crystyll: "Your repairs would go a lot quicker with help, and resources. What's the rush? After all, I still owe you my efforts in finding a way to get you home" Minabi@stickybuns14: "No offense Captain, but I don't think everyone on your side is keen on welcoming us with open arms." *she smirks faintly* "But, I have a feeling, this is not the last we will see of each other." Keelah@crystyll: "Surely you have learned by now not to underestimate us on that front. You've already taken the first step in returning us to our ship, why not take another and stick around a while?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *she pauses for a moment staring off to the side, then smiles, enigmatically* "You are correct, we did underestimate you. But we are not the same, you and I. And as much as I respect you, Keelah, * Minabi@stickybuns14: Kassandra does not fit into your world....just yet." *she smiles and tilts her head* "In another time. In another place. I am sure we will meet." Keelah@crystyll: "If that is your motivation, then logic would dictate the best course of action now would be to afford us the opportunity to help you return home" Keelah@crystyll: "If your motivation is stay and find your own way here now, then it would be logical to align with established allied forces while you find your way in this universe. Either way, you stand to do + Keelah@crystyll: + better with us than on your own. Even if just while we all recover from this frey" Minabi@stickybuns14: *a wicked grin forms on her lips* "I am not always logical Captain. Don't tell me you've grown so fond of me already you can't stand to see me part?" Keelah@crystyll smiles, "Maybe I don't trust a vessel easily mistaken as one of our own being let loose on this galaxy with unknown intentions" Minabi@stickybuns14: "Well Captain...right now you have the advantage. My vessel is damaged. Your group could undoubtedly take us down if you order it before we make our escape. Are you going to?" Keelah@crystyll: "I'm sure we're all mature enough to not let it come that, wouldn't you say?" Minabi@stickybuns14: *a soft chuckle follows that* "I would think so. So...shall we say...till we meet again?" Keelah@crystyll dips her head, "Until next time, Captain. Just do me a favour; stay out of trouble. It would be bitterly disappointing if our next encounter comes to more violence" Minabi@stickybuns14: *Mina leans forward and a teasing smile spreads across her lips* "I wouldn't -dream- of disappointing you Keelah." *she winks, but then more seriously and with genuine respect* "Until then Captain. * Minabi@stickybuns14: "Live long...and prosper." Keelah@crystyll smiles at the gesture of using those words, replying in kind, "Peace and long life, Captain" Minabi@stickybuns14: *The viewscreen flickers off and Kassandra makes for an exit* Keelah@crystyll: "Alright, let's turn our attention to recovery efforts. When power is sufficiently restored begin sweeping the battlefield for survivors" Keelah@crystyll 's gaze drifts towards their quiet visitor as she stands, "Now, I believe we have some catching up to do" she gestures to her ready room Kiera@falconecoose: "Captain, just finished getting a report from the battle logs. A little under 300 hostile ships, were disabled or destroyed during the battle. But roughly 100 enemy ships arrived during the battle > Kiera@falconecoose: > but bypassed us and have gone in the direction of the ships that fled from the battle." Keelah@crystyll pauses, looking to Kiera, "What ships are they pursuing? Are they heading towards Terminu?" Kiera@falconecoose: "Thier heading seems to be that, Captain. Though sensors are too weak to confirm." The Architect@anncarise | Erik: "I'll have our power back as soon as I can, Captain." The Architect@anncarise | Erik: "We're in no state to check for warp trails or pursue just yet." Keelah@crystyll looks over to Kirstine, "Signal the Nuhar and the An. We will have to rely on them to intercept for now" Kirstine@hawkecosse#4702: "Affirm, Captain. Sending the message now." Keelah@crystyll leads the way into her ready room The Architect@anncarise follows inside, looking around and getting his bearings. Keelah@crystyll makes a beeline for the replicator, prepping a long awaiting spiced tea, "Do make yourself comfortable. Can I offer you any refreshment?" she turns, enjoying a sip The Architect@anncarise moves over, slowly taking a seat, "I am unsure of what you have to offer. I do not suppose you possess the recipe for Malanova honey drink?" Keelah@crystyll hrms, "I do not believe so. Though we have a variety of honeyed blends, try this one" she turns and replicates a simple honey tea for him The Architect@anncarise smiles and nods, "Thank you." He looks over Keelah with a tilted head, "You are...Silonan, correct?" Keelah@crystyll: "Vulcan. And if you are who I think you are, then I suspect a lot more time has passed in this galaxy than you yet realise" The Architect@anncarise: "I know only that I have slumbered long, and much has changed around me. When I last saw this galaxy, our Firstborn had only begun to flourish." Keelah@crystyll: "Then you are indeed of the people we call the Preservers?" The Architect@anncarise: "I am unfamiliar with that name, but there is an Identity among us named the Preserver of the Imperiled. Perhaps your translations have taken that name and applied it to our entire people." Keelah@crystyll: "Perhaps..." she moves to her desk, working on the console before spinning it around for him to see The Architect@anncarise steps over to look curiously. Keelah@crystyll: "This may help provide context and clarity" Keelah@crystyll | The screen displays a Starfleet record on the Preserver Archive previously discovered, and accounts from the holo archivist there The Architect@anncarise nods slowly, "Yes. That is my people. When we first took to the stars, we were the only ones of our kind in the universe. We had no name for ourselves, we simply knew one another as the People." The Architect@anncarise: "Over time our Children gave us many names. Ancients, Wise Ones, Progenitors, Creators, even Gods." Keelah@crystyll: "Then we are indeed descended of your seeding" she smiles, "It is quite the rare honour for us here, I only regret the nature of your introduction to this time period" The Architect@anncarise nods, "It seems things have only worsened since I last awakened." Keelah@crystyll: "Whilst the galaxy has it's share of conflict, what you have witnessed here is still the exception, not the rule" The Architect@anncarise: "Truly? We have made you in our own image, and I have often feared that it may be a mistake." Keelah@crystyll: "By comparison to how long you have slept, the population of the galaxy are still quite literally; children. We try, and sometimes we falter. But we generally learn from our mistakes and grow as a + Keelah@crystyll: + result. The organization this ship belongs to - the Federation - is perhaps the truest embodiment of this that I have encountered" The Architect@anncarise nods, "As Children should. But you are indeed still very much children, from your records on us. For many a child thinks their parents infallible and omniscient." Keelah@crystyll: "It is still within living memory that the dominant species of this quadrant learned of your people's involvement in our evolution. I am sorry to say, but almost nothing remains of them to this day + Keelah@crystyll: + a few sites such as this one" she indicates the screen, "Though in this more rimward area, we have found growing sustained presence like the station here, and that of other species like the + Keelah@crystyll: + Iconians and Nuhar" The Architect@anncarise: "You remember us the way the Archivist would have wanted. Perhaps it is better that you do not know the minutiae. The Iconians and Nuhar, do they survive still?" Keelah@crystyll shakes her head, "Not as you knew them. The Nuhar fell to the Primeval Horde, though their Constructs survive in diminshed numbers out here. The Iconians... evolved into something else, something + Keelah@crystyll: + broken and malicious. They now hide in a secluded corner of the galaxy trying to reconcile their nature" Keelah@crystyll: "As for your people, we have learned more since venturing out this far; as the first Federation vessel to come so far rimward, we have learned a great many new things" she taps again, showing her own+ Keelah@crystyll: + report on the Operators trial and the Preserver 'final solution' code The Architect@anncarise: "It is as I feared then. The Iconians and Nuhar both walked their own intepretations of our path, and fell to much the same folly." The Architect@anncarise nods grimly as he looks through the report, "The Contingency. So they actually made it." Keelah@crystyll: "Indeed. Fortunately, the code is secured away by our allies. Though less fortunately, it actually exists still" The Architect@anncarise: "It was to be a weapon of last resort against these enemies you have faced, this Horde. I am glad they did not choose to wipe away our legacy entirely in the end, but it would seem they have never - The Architect@anncarise: - found a solution for our mistakes either." Keelah@crystyll: "Your mistakes? I hope you don't mean life as we know it. Because I assure you, that really is not a mistake" The Architect@anncarise shakes his head. "Not life. This twisted perversion of life that sought to destroy me as I was still awakening. This blight we have unleashed on the galaxy, on our own Children." Keelah@crystyll: "You say that like you are responsible for the Horde. But the Primevals are infinitely older than even your people" The Architect@anncarise: "As you have admitted, you do not know much of our people. We are responsible. /I/ am responsible." Keelah@crystyll gestures back to the sofa, "This is of the utmost importance to current events here. Why don't you start from the beginning and tell me what you know" The Architect@anncarise steps back over, sitting down and taking a long sip of the honey tea. As he does, Keelah's combadge chirps. Keelah@crystyll: "Apologies" she taps the combadge, "Se'Lai" The Architect@anncarise: <C - Kazra> "Keelah. It's good to have you back, but there's something you should see in sickbay." Keelah@crystyll: <C> "Understood. I'll be right down" The Architect@anncarise stands, "Would you mind if I came along as well? I assume 'sickbay' is a place to care for the sick?" Keelah@crystyll nods, "Yes, it is our main medical facility on board. You are more than welcome to join me and hopefully gain a fairer insight into the achievements of your Children, and how they have come together+ Keelah@crystyll: + here" she smiles, setting her tea down to lead the way Keelah@crystyll escorts him through the ship, continuing the familiarization and answering questions about the people, before entering sickbay The Architect@anncarise | Keelah and the Architect arrive in sickbay to find TQ near the entrance, with a nurse running a dermal regenerator over her hand. Keelah@crystyll steps over, "Oh stars, Tee, are you alright?" The Architect@anncarise | TQ: "I'm okay, it's a very minor burn. There won't even be a trace of it tomorrow." She nods over towards the surgical bed at the other side of sickbay. Keelah@crystyll peers over The Architect@anncarise | Kazra and Kelly are standing over the surgical bed, and Kazra turns as Keelah looks over. Keelah@crystyll: "Doctor...?" she approaches tentatively, bracing for the worst The Architect@anncarise | Evanne lies unconscious, encased by the arches of the bed. The Architect@anncarise | Kazra: "We lost Crewman Avers. Lieutenant Dra is on life support; she’s still alive and her brain is active, but...there's nothing I can do for her." Keelah@crystyll: "Oh no... what happened to her?" The Architect@anncarise | Kelly turns to Keelah with light grey, watery eyes, "There was a radiation leak. The force fields kicked in, but by the time transporters could get her out...she was already like this." The Architect@anncarise | Kelly: "Avers...he was lost to a collapsed Jefferies tube while running damage control." Keelah@crystyll: "There must be something we can do for her?" The Architect@anncarise steps over, peering over the unconscious Eva, "You claim she is alive? Why can I not sense her?" The Architect@anncarise | Kazra: "That would be the implan- wait...are you..." The Architect@anncarise | Kazra runs her tricorder over the Architect, her eyes widening with surprise. Keelah@crystyll: "Yes Doctor. But please, focus. What about Eva?" The Architect@anncarise looks between everyone present, "Implant?" Keelah@crystyll: "A technology we developed to block telepathic influence. A defense against the Horde" The Architect@anncarise | Kazra shakes her head sadly, "Her consciousness is powerful, and her brain is fine. But her body's absorbed too much radiation to recover. Like Captain Pike. There's nothing I can do for her - The Architect@anncarise: - short of creating a whole new body." The Architect@anncarise: "I can do that." Keelah@crystyll looks over with a perked brow The Architect@anncarise | Kazra narrows her eyes, "This is not the place for jo...you're not joking." The Architect@anncarise: "I hold the Identity of the foremost bio-engineer of our people. Your evolution was my Design. I can create a new body, given the right tools." The Architect@anncarise looks to Kazra, "How long can you keep her on your life support?" The Architect@anncarise | Kazra: "Indefinitely, assuming we don't try any more deflector tricks and have power cuts." The Architect@anncarise: "And this implant can be deactivated?" The Architect@anncarise | Kazra nods. Keelah@crystyll: "What exactly are you thinking to do here?" The Architect@anncarise: "Create a new body for her, identical to her own before it was damaged. Use the Failsafe to transfer her consciousness into the new body." Keelah@crystyll: "Simple as that? Well I am not one to look a gifthorse in the mouth, but I assume certain resources and facilities will be required for you to achieve this. As for the moral implications and medical + Keelah@crystyll: + decision" she turns to Kazra, "You are her Doctor, Kazra" The Architect@anncarise | Kazra: "It would be like transferring a Vulcan katra...I think. If it means saving her life, I suggest we do it." The Architect@anncarise | Kelly nods in agreement. Keelah@crystyll: "Very well. Architect, we would graciously welcome your assistance. Just tell us what you need" The Architect@anncarise: "The equipment I need can be salvaged, or created from what remains of the station. I will assist in the construction." Keelah@crystyll: "Then I suggest we return to the bridge in order to coordinate salvage efforts" The Architect@anncarise | Kelly nods again and promptly begins heading for the bridge. The Architect@anncarise follows behind her. Keelah@crystyll: "Keep us apprised of any change in her condition, Doctor. We'll work as quickly as we can on preparations" she notes, hurrying out behind the others The Architect@anncarise | Kelly moves to take over the engineering station as she arrives. The Architect@anncarise | Erik: "Commander. Are you alright?" Keelah@crystyll steps onto the bridge, "You'll want to access our sensor arrays; over here" she leads him to Lennie The Architect@anncarise | Kelly nods, "It's not me, it's Eva. Just have teams standing by ready for salvage work and xenotech repurposing." Keelah@crystyll | Lennie looks over, "Cap'n? Is tha'...?" Keelah@crystyll raises a hand, already growing weary of the common reaction to their guest, "Not the time Commander. I need you to assist our guest with a priority salvage search through the debris from the station" Keelah@crystyll | Lennie nods, scooching over at her console, "Course Cap'n" The Architect@anncarise | Erik: "Got it. I'll inform Professor Lycas and have teams prepared." Keelah@crystyll: "This is our absolute highest priority. We are only interested in what the Architect immediately needs. By all means log other finds of interest, but this... is a matter of life and death. Understood? Keelah@crystyll | Lennie nods firmly, "We got this" Keelah@crystyll nods, leaving them to it The Architect@anncarise steps over to work with Lennie. Keelah@crystyll joins Kelly & Erik, "So. How are we doing?" Keelah@crystyll | Crystyl: "Captain. One of the Lupan ships is hailing us" Keelah@crystyll groans, "Hold that thought..." and turns, "Put it up, Chief" The Architect@anncarise | Five grey or white furred Lupan, all female, appear on the viewscreen. The Architect@anncarise | Elder 1: "You have the Architect on board your vessel, do you not, Star-Blade?" Keelah@crystyll: "We do" she answers plainly The Architect@anncarise | Elder 2: "We released him. He is to lead /our/ people to glory." Keelah@crystyll: "You are quick to presume his intentions" The Architect@anncarise | Elder 3: "The Sacred Recordings tell of his intentions. Our Sisters have shown you." Keelah@crystyll: "Such broken recordings can tell you anything you want to hear from them. Regardless, I am not sure what you think is going on here, but the Architect is not being held here against his will" The Architect@anncarise steps over into clear view, "She speaks truth." The Architect@anncarise | The five Elders suddenly all drop to one knee, "Your Holiness." The Architect@anncarise gives Keelah a confused glance, "These must be the Protectors my people created. They would not have been taught to worship us..." Keelah@crystyll: "Correct. From what we know from the Nuhar archives, they have... strayed from the path your people set out for them. They lost their heritage and their engineered nature led to a devolution into + Keelah@crystyll: + what they are today. They are loosely aware of their situation, and this groups represents the closest thing they have to a centralized authority who we believe have been seeking to recall you. As + Keelah@crystyll: + to their beliefs regarding the result of this... well, as you see..." The Architect@anncarise | Elder 1: "Protectors. That word is in one of the Sacred Recordings, but we cannot make out its context." Keelah@crystyll solely addresses the Architect, "The Nuhar constructs advised that they have tried to share their knowledge of the Lupan's true nature with them, but to no avail. Perhaps you will have more luck given+ Keelah@crystyll: + their eagerness to heed your words" The Architect@anncarise nods and looks to the screen, "Your creation was not of my Design, but from what I understand, you were created to be our warriors against the Horde. Protectors of the Children, those who hold - The Architect@anncarise: - their first line of defense." The Architect@anncarise | Elder 2: "But the promises of domination...that we were made to be more powerful than the Children..." The Architect@anncarise: "You /were/ made to be more formidable fighters than the Children, not to dominate them, but to protect them." The Architect@anncarise | Elder 1: "That means the Sisterhood...everything we thought we knew of the Sacred Recordings, everything we taught...we were mistaken?" The Architect@anncarise: "I am afraid so." Keelah@crystyll: "Mistaken may be a bit harsh. Perhaps simply, a little misguided. It is not surprising given how much time has passed" The Architect@anncarise | Elder 4: "This changes much. If this knowledge were to spread, our influence over the Lupan would diminish completely. We would become scattered packs, united by nothing." The Architect@anncarise | Elder 1: "We can...make amends. But change must come slowly. If you do not pass this knowledge to the Lupan packs...we swear on the Gods that we will unite them to stand against the Horde once - The Architect@anncarise: - again, as our Gods intended." Keelah@crystyll: "We are not rushing away from the area here. Why don't you take some time to reconcile with this information? We have some urgent work the architect is assisting us with here, but as and when you + Keelah@crystyll: + feel ready, we would be happy to welcome you aboard to talk in more detail with one another if you wish" The Architect@anncarise | Elder 2 nods, "We shall do as you suggest." Keelah@crystyll: "You have my word that we will not depart without speaking further with you. This has been a hard day on all of us, but now we have the chance to recoup something from the ashes and give meaning to + Keelah@crystyll: + lives that were lost here today" Keelah@crystyll: "That said... if you have forces remaining in fighting shape, we registered around 100 Horde vessels heading towards Terminu. The An and Nuhar are pursuing, but if there is anything you can do to + Keelah@crystyll: + assist..." The Architect@anncarise | Elder 5 looks over to the Architect, "If it is the will of the Gods..." The Architect@anncarise gives a nod. The Architect@anncarise | Elder 5: "We will send all the Holy Warriors we can spare, and notify any packs in range to hunt down these Horde vessels." Keelah@crystyll bows her head, "Your assistance is appreciated. Please contact us at any time if you wish to discuss things further. For now, I am certain we all have much requiring our attention" The Architect@anncarise | Elder 1: "Indeed. I hope you learn much from the wisdom of the Gods, as we have." Keelah@crystyll: "As do I" she smiles faintly The Architect@anncarise FX | The call ends, and the Architect goes back to helping Lennie identify the salvage. Keelah@crystyll: "Thank you for stepping in there" she notes to the Architect with a smile The Architect@anncarise nods, "I thought my presence may have been of use, as I was the subject of discussion." Keelah@crystyll: "I was quite taken aback at how willing they were to accept your word as gospel, regardless of how contradictory it was to their own beliefs. Quite impressive in it's own way" The Architect@anncarise: "I think their gospel /is/ our word, or what remained of it." Keelah@crystyll: "Indeed. Still, they have gone countless generations evolving their current belief of being created solely to dominate the galaxy. To turn that around to accepting their role as Protectors in a + Keelah@crystyll: + single sentence. I would not have anticipated that result with such ease" The Architect@anncarise: "Those who stand in positions of leadership see much further than ones below them, but often must maintain a singular direction or risk dissention." Keelah@crystyll smiles a little, "Wise words" The Architect@anncarise: "These leaders of the Lupan may have long suspected that they do not know the truth, but merely appear so to others whom they must lead." Keelah@crystyll: "Certainly a possibility" --- The Architect@anncarise FX | It has been over a day since the battle. Keelah, the Architect and several members of the senior staff gather in the conference room as they await the arrival of the Lupan Elders. The Architect@anncarise | The door slides open to reveal Silvestrie and Delaan first, before the five old Lupan females enter the room along with several young ones. Security personnel stand at the doors and around the - The Architect@anncarise: - room as the five Elders sit on the floor around the tables, the younger priestesses standing behind them. Keelah@crystyll: "Welcome aboard" she greets the group en masse The Architect@anncarise | Elder 1: "Thank you for having us. The Star-Blade is as impressive as was described to us." Keelah@crystyll: "Kind praise" she dips her head, "How are you all doing with the revelations which came from speaking with our guest here?" she glances to the Architect The Architect@anncarise | Elder 2: "It is never an easy thing to learn that one is wrong, but the information does line up with what remains of our Sacred Recordings." The Architect@anncarise | Elder 3: "A wholly different interpretation, but certainly valid." Keelah@crystyll: "Indeed. Having one's core beliefs challenged even in a small way can be shattering. Our peoples never faced revelations on the scale you are dealing with, but it was difficult enough for many when + Keelah@crystyll: + learned of the Architects' people being responsible for the galactic seeding which led to our evolution. From those reactions, we can gauge an estimation of what you are going through now. Though + Keelah@crystyll: + I can not - and will not - pretend to fully comprehend what this has done to you and your people" The Architect@anncarise | Elder 2: "We have not yet spread this information to the Lupan packs now, and we believe that if we are to do so, the Sisterhood will lose our position in Lupan culture. We may even lose our - The Architect@anncarise: - most devoted of Holy Warriors." The Architect@anncarise | Elder 3: "We are not entirely self-interested. If the Sisterhood were to collapse, generations later, a new group may arise teaching the new interpretation. But until then, the Lupan will be - The Architect@anncarise: - scattered and leaderless, and many packs will likely continue to raid." The Architect@anncarise | Elder 5: "The information is your hands. If you seek to spread it, we cannot and will not stop you. But we hope you will not do so. We will introduce change and the new interpretation slowly - The Architect@anncarise: - over time, and for the moment we can use our influence over the packs to direct their natural bloodlust towards the Horde." Keelah@crystyll: "We will honour your wishes in this. It is our policy not to interfere with the internal affairs of other cultures. If we encounter other packs who may seem more open to the truth than others, we can+ Keelah@crystyll: + use our discretion and ultimately direct them to you if they wish to embrace change" The Architect@anncarise | Elder 1: "Thank you. We will do what we can to change our teachings as well, but it cannot be done over a single moon." The Architect@anncarise | Elder 3: "While our influence remains intact, we will use it to ensure the Lupan serve our purpose against the Horde, even if the packs do not fully know or accept the new interpretation yet." Keelah@crystyll: "Of course. As to the Horde itself..." she looks around, "Do we have any indication as to where this sudden assault came from, what the driving force was?" The Architect@anncarise | Elder 5: "Many worlds rimward from here have already fallen to the Horde, but we believe their motivation was the Holy City. They seem to have a particular hatred for constructs of the gods, - The Architect@anncarise: - and that is why we call them Demons. Whether they know about the Architect's awakening and chose this particular moment to attack is unclear." The Architect@anncarise | Elder 4: "But the destruction of the Holy City was almost certainly their goal, in either case." Keelah@crystyll: "The timing of things seems a little too convenient to be considered a coincidence. Especially if we factor in the experiences of the Terran ship from the alternate universe" The Architect@anncarise | Elder 2: "These...Terrans, as you call them. They claim to have been contacted by something and given instructions on how to open the Portal. We presumed it was the Architect himself." The Architect@anncarise: "I do possess such capabilities from bio-engineering. On that the Lupan records were not mistaken. But the timing is indeed too convenient." Keelah@crystyll: "As did they believe. However I had the opportunity to perform a scan of their Captain, and the readings were conclusive as being under Horde influence. Minor, but they had definitely been in contact" Keelah@crystyll: "From what we know of things elsewhere, we believe their experimental technology took them to a subspace pocket realm not unlike the one we found ourselves in some time ago. We believe that both of + Keelah@crystyll: + these realms served as prisons for Primeval entities. To extrapolate the theory from this; we could suggest that this particular Primeval was disturbed by the Kassandra's passing, and reached out + Keelah@crystyll: + call in nearby forces to attack your station in order to effect it's 'jailbreak', for want of a better term" The Architect@anncarise: "I believe they intended to release me. Perhaps to destroy me, or perhaps for other, more...complicated reasons." Keelah@crystyll looks to the Architect, "Do you have any knowledge of these Primeval prisons?" The Architect@anncarise: "Yes. They are not built solely for Primeval entities. But there is much to speak of concerning the Horde, and I must focus on saving your officer first." The Architect@anncarise: "When the procedure is complete, I shall reveal everything you need to know." Keelah@crystyll: "Of course. we just want to ascertain the likelihood of another attack while we work here" The Architect@anncarise shakes his head, "It is unlikely. The station is gone, as is the ship I was kept on. Your minds are hidden from the Horde, and the Lupan cannot be sensed either." The Architect@anncarise: "They have moved on, to this place you call Terminu." Keelah@crystyll: "What about this prison? Does this specific region of space serve as an anchor point?" The Architect@anncarise: "No. There is no entity you need to be concerned about." Keelah@crystyll: "Good enough for me" she nods The Architect@anncarise | Elder 1: "We will spread the message and gather all the packs we can to stand against the Horde, if there is nothing else." Keelah@crystyll: "What will you do now, with your Holy City gone?" The Architect@anncarise | Elder 3: "We will have to travel on the Holy Warrior packships for now. There are ruins we can establish ourselves in, but we Sisters are still Lupan, and we prefer a mobile life." Keelah@crystyll: "Understandable" she looks to the Architect, "And what about you? Have you thought any on what you want to do once you have helped our injured officer?" The Architect@anncarise: "You seek to stand against the Horde, do you not?" Keelah@crystyll nods, "Since learning of the threat they pose, it has become our primary purpose out here. We have a plan to do shut them down as well, it is not just a blind march into the frey" The Architect@anncarise nods, "Then I will remain here and assist you. Given that you will still have me." Keelah@crystyll dips her head, "We would be honoured to have you with us" The Architect@anncarise: "You may not think so once you hear the truth, but I will let you decide for yourself then. For now, I will continue my work on your officer." Keelah@crystyll: "Thank you" she looks to the Lupan, "Before we depart then, I encourage you to capitalize on the time with the Architect here" The Architect@anncarise | Elder 4: "We will be sure to do so. I suspect we have much to learn still from him." Keelah@crystyll glances his way, "I expect we all do..." --- The Architect@anncarise | Another two days have passed since the battle. Keelah is called down to the cargo bay where the recovered Preserver technology has been taken and assembled, as the Architect is ready - The Architect@anncarise - to perform his procedure. Keelah@crystyll walks in, undeniably curious to see the Preserver tech at work The Architect@anncarise | Inside the room, the Preserver technology had been constructed into some form of small chamber, almost like an enclosed full-body scanning machine. Nearby, a Federation surgical bed with Eva - The Architect@anncarise - inside has been moved down and placed near the device, connected with a number of wires to power sources beyond the walls. Kelly and Lycas stand and observe while Kazra and a nurse monitor Eva. The Architect@anncarise stands in the centre in white robes he had replicated sometime in the past few days. He turns as Keelah enters, "Captain. I am all set to begin here." Keelah@crystyll looks around at the setup, "You've all been busy. Doctor, I trust you're satisfied with everything?" The Architect@anncarise | Kazra nods, "The device is some kind of cloning chamber. Essentially a large biological replicator. I've scanned the body and it's identical to our medical records of Eva." Keelah@crystyll: "So what exactly will the procedure entail now?" The Architect@anncarise | Kazra: "I'll send the signal to disable Eva's implant, and the Architect will do his thing." The Architect@anncarise nods, looking to Keelah and Kazra, "I am ready to proceed at your discretion." Keelah@crystyll: "I want to be clear on our expectations here. What exactly is 'your thing', and what are risks we're dealing with?" The Architect@anncarise: "I will access her consciousness through the Failsafe backdoor and move it into the new body. The implant should be reinstalled in the new body as soon as possible after she wakes, in the case that - The Architect@anncarise: - you encounter Horde influence again. Aside from that, there should be no risk, as long as the implant is properly deactivated." Keelah@crystyll: "You make it all sound so simple. What about long term repercussions for her? I mean, how much of a guarantee do we expect that she will 100% be herself?" The Architect@anncarise: "I have crafted the new body to be identical to the old. She will not need any adjustment. The only change that may occur is that I will have to carry her consciousness into the new body. Her mind - The Architect@anncarise: - will briefly pass through mine, and may pick up fragments of what is in my own. Like the mind melds your people are capable of." The Architect@anncarise: "The core of who she is will not be altered. It will only be a momentary transition." Keelah@crystyll: "Fair enough. You may proceed when ready" she steps back to stay out of the way and observe The Architect@anncarise nods and pulls out the centre of the chamber, a platform on which a body identical to Eva's is resting. It is also encased by an arch, with the only visible difference being that the original Eva - The Architect@anncarise: - is still in her uniform, while the new Eva appears unclothed under the arch. The Architect@anncarise steps between the two Evas, "Deactivate the implant, Doctor." The Architect@anncarise | Kazra nods, tapping the console on the bed, "Implant is now offline." The Architect@anncarise sets one hand on the original Eva's face and the other on the new Eva's face, surprisingly similar to the pressure points of a Vulcan mind meld. The Architect@anncarise closes his eyes and lowers his head... The Architect@anncarise | Kazra: "Lieutenant Dra's brain activity is dropping. We are reading increased activity in all parts of the Architect's brain." The Architect@anncarise | A few seconds pass in silence as everyone stands and watches... The Architect@anncarise | Kazra: "All brain function has ceased in Lieutenant Dra's original body. We're reading a spike in the new body..." The Architect@anncarise opens his eyes, lifting the hand on the original Eva's body and waving it over the new Eva, "Awaken." The Architect@anncarise | The new Eva's eyes slowly begin to blink open. The Architect@anncarise | Eva's eyes open more fully, first looking up to the Architect, then over to Kazra, then to Keelah and Kelly, "What...happened? Where am I? This isn't sickbay...is it? Am I in a cargo bay?" Keelah@crystyll steps forward with a gentle smile, "That's right Eva. How are you feeling?" The Architect@anncarise | Eva: "I feel...a little drowsy. But...nothing else that I can tell." Keelah@crystyll: "That's good. Just take your time, a little disorientation is only to be expected. right?" she looks to the Architect The Architect@anncarise nods, "It is indeed." The Architect@anncarise | Kazra scans the new body, "Her brain activity and neurochemistry suggests she's just waking up. Everything else looks perfectly normal." Keelah@crystyll: "We owe you a debt of gratitude. Thank you" she says to the Architect, clearly relieved to see her officer appearing well again The Architect@anncarise | Kelly beams with relief and nods in agreement, "I...we would've lost her without you." The Architect@anncarise: "There is no need for thanks. But there are things we must first discuss." The Architect@anncarise retracts the arches, allowing Eva to sit up. She does so, and being a Betazoid shows no concern for her unclothed state. The Architect@anncarise | Eva glances around, blinking as she notices the medical bed, "Am I seeing things, or does that look like me?" The Architect@anncarise | Kazra: "Don't be startled. You're...technically dead. Well, your original body is, but the Architect here created an identical one and transferred your consciousness into it." The Architect@anncarise | Eva blinks at Kazra again before looking back at the other her, "Well...that's unsettling." Keelah@crystyll: "Do you remember what happened to you, Eva?" The Architect@anncarise | Eva: "The last thing I remember was an explosion. I tried to get out, I didn't make it and blacked out. The next thing I know, I'm here in the cargo bay." The Architect@anncarise | Eva looks around at everyone again, "I can't sense you." She looks to the Architect. "But I can sense him. Very clearly." The Architect@anncarise | Kazra: "That's normal. We all have our implants, but your new body doesn't have it yet. And neither does he." The Architect@anncarise | Kazra glances at the Architect, then to Keelah, "We should probably get him one sometime, too." Keelah@crystyll: "Indeed" she notes with a nod, "Eva. Your body was badly injured in the explosion. But the Architect here was able to recreate it for you" The Architect@anncarise | Eva nods, testing her fingers and legs, "Thank you. I...don't feel very different at all. Like I've woken up from a very long sleep and haven't moved in a long time, but nothing off." The Architect@anncarise | Kazra: "I think we can move her up to sickbay now. I'll give her the implant and then keep her under observation for a few days, just in case." Keelah@crystyll: "Take all the time you see fit, Doctor" she smiles to Eva, "We're just happy to have her back" The Architect@anncarise | Eva stumbles a little as she tries to stand, but manages to find her footing. The Architect@anncarise | Kelly: "I'll help her up." The Architect@anncarise | The two support Eva as they move her out towards sickbay. The Architect@anncarise looks to Keelah, "Do you wish to speak now, or at another time?" Keelah@crystyll: "Now is as good a time as any. Assuming you do not require rest from the procedure?" The Architect@anncarise shakes his head, "Shall we proceed to your office, then?" Keelah@crystyll nods, leading the way Keelah@crystyll takes a seat back in the ready room, "So. You have previously indicated that you have more pertinent information to share regarding our current situation?" The Architect@anncarise takes a seat as well, "Yes. You have assumed, like many before you, that the Horde is being controlled by Primeval beings that existed in the universe long before us." Keelah@crystyll: "Are you suggesting this is not the case?" The Architect@anncarise: "Such beings do exist, of course, and your people have no doubt encountered a number of them, some of which are extremely dangerous. But no, the Horde is...us." The Architect@anncarise: "It is in our nature to fear that which is different from ourselves. When the Elder Council was too ashamed to admit the truth, our Children did as we would, and thought some Primeval species responsible." Keelah@crystyll: "I am not sure I follow. Are you saying the Horde are the remnants of your own people?" The Architect@anncarise nods, "Allow me to explain. I am, as you know, the Architect of Life. I hold the knowledge and memories of every Architect of Life before me. We played a significant role in designing the - The Architect@anncarise: - Children, and seeding the galaxy according to our Design. In this design we included a backdoor which we called the Failsafe. We all had our reasons. Some, such as myself, included it as a - The Architect@anncarise: - control mechanism, in case our Children turned on us, or otherwise grew out of control. Others had more nefarious ideas, and sought to be gods." The Architect@anncarise: "We were, you see, young in those days, and just as prone to mistakes as any of our Children." The Architect@anncarise: "The rest of my people did not discover the Failsafe until our Children had grown and flourished. We did not believe in execution, and as the Architect of Life of my time, I was imprisoned, with the - The Architect@anncarise: - Architect identity discontinued. my knowledge never to be passed on. That is why you found me in such a layer of subspace." The Architect@anncarise: "The rest of those involved with the creation of the Failsafe...did not accept the Council's judgement. They fled, using the Failsafe to transfer from body to body. Eventually, they sought to use - The Architect@anncarise: - the Children to fight back. They controlled ten bodies at a time. A hundred. A thousand. But a single, fragile mind was never made for such stresses." Keelah@crystyll: "So the Horde is actually something of a hive mind evolved from these kin of yours?" The Architect@anncarise nods slowly, "We call them the Fallen. Eventually, they lost all sense of who they were. Their former intelligence, combined with the minds of those they dominated, gave them some tactical - The Architect@anncarise: - capability. They can control ships, direct their armies, even affect Children so that they sabotage their own." The Architect@anncarise: "They have lost all sense of Personhood, however. They know only hunger and hate, and are driven purely to dominate more Children or destroy anything of our people." Keelah@crystyll: "So theirs is the telepathic influence we have been shielding from, not that of the Primevals?" The Architect@anncarise: "Yes and no. Your implants are enough to make the backdoor unusable, and defend against other forms of telepathy." Keelah@crystyll: "I can see the evolution which you describe. You will have to forgive me however, as reconciling the fact that Primevals are not involved after everything we had believed true to date" The Architect@anncarise: "Information has a way of being eroded by the waters of time, as we have seen all too recently with the Protectors." The Architect@anncarise: "Many of the Primevals do not even know that their kind are not involved. They know only that many of the Children fear them because of the Horde." Keelah@crystyll: "But... our whole plan to contain this threat... this throws it into disarray" The Architect@anncarise: "What was your plan, if I may ask?" Keelah@crystyll: "We first set out in this direction to locate what we call a Dyson Sphere; an Iconian facility which we tracked from a connecting point in Federation space. We later learned from the Nuhar Construct + Keelah@crystyll: + that their creators had worked with the Iconians in constructing this very facility as a prison to contain the Primevals driving the Horde" The Architect@anncarise: "I have heard of it. During my imprisonment, many of my people consulted me on the Horde, as I had a...unique insight into their capabilities. If I am correct...this is the weapon that seeks to - The Architect@anncarise: - render the region already infested by the Horde intraversable using special particles?" Keelah@crystyll: "I am uncertain, though that would be consistent with Omega particle behaviour. It would also mean we can not risk using it" she sighs The Architect@anncarise shakes his head, "It should still work, at least to temporarily halt the Horde, as they rely on spacefaring vessels to spread. But it is a crude measure, a last resort much like the Contingency." Keelah@crystyll: "Indeed. It would strand us there, and from what we know of Omega there's every chance the shockwave could spread exponentially through subspace as well" The Architect@anncarise nods, "Rendering an entire region of the galaxy untraversable is not ideal. But it is better to try something than nothing. Controlling such a weapon would also be of importance even if it is not - The Architect@anncarise: - used, lest it fall into the Enemy's hands." Keelah@crystyll: "Control is moot. We have standing orders to nullify Omega particles that oustrip any and all other considerations" The Architect@anncarise: "Then to nullify it would also nullify the threat of it being used by the Horde." The Architect@anncarise: "There may be alternative, better solutions, but I will need time to think. I was only awakened when my knowledge was needed, and my people did not trust me with actively assisting them against the - The Architect@anncarise: - Enemy. I would understand as well if you do not, now that you know my role in the creation of the Horde." Keelah@crystyll: "If it comes to it. However, I am not about to jump to conclusions or predeterminations. The facility we seek may well be something completely different. It is possible that Primevals have become + Keelah@crystyll: + involved without your knowledge. It is also possible that you are their agent and steering us in this direction. The point is, we simply can't assume a singular mindset here" The Architect@anncarise nods, "I agree. It is better to pursue multiple solutions than one." Keelah@crystyll: "So for now we will continue with our primary objective and keep an open mind to all possibilities" she stands, "For now, I believe time to reflect is most prudent" The Architect@anncarise: "I understand if you decide you cannot trust me. But I still ask to remain and assist you in rectifying my mistakes. I will use your implants, if you fear I may be influenced by the Horde." Keelah@crystyll: "It would be wise for you to use one, and subject yourself to the same measures as all others on board. As for trust; you have earned sufficient good graces from your benevolent actions to be given + Keelah@crystyll: + the benefit of the doubt. The rest will come in time, as is such for any new face" The Architect@anncarise stands and nods, "I will be here to assist then, if you have need of my knowledge." Keelah@crystyll nods in kind, "If nothing else, I am certain many on board will be eager to make your acquaintance and indulge in that knowledge" she smiles The Architect@anncarise smiles back, "And I will teach my Children all that I can. Thank you, Captain, for giving me the benefit of the doubt." With that, he heads for the door. Keelah@crystyll: nods and moves to her desk, eager to do her homework and scrutinize all of their mission data

View AAR

AFTER ACTION REPORT STARFLEET SECURITY CLEARANCE LEVEL 3 | Restricted

FILED BY

CAPT Se'Lai

ON STARDATE

97550.6

LOCATION

KEY PERSONNEL

Sectors V-023

MISSION PARAMETERSOUTCOME SUMMARY Recovery of abducted personnel. Following the impromptu arrival of what appeared to be another Federation vessel, this transpired to be of the Terran Empire - from a known parallel universe - and they abducted several officers including myself. Allied forces rallied to recover personnel from the Lupan's mobile fortress known as the 'Holy City'. The Holy City (actually a Preserver space station) was destroyed when a sizable Horde fleet intervened, however a single surviving member of the Preserver race known to us as the Architect survived after being recovered from stasis and is now residing on board this ship. The Terran Empire vessel remains at large.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Continued monitoring of the Terran vessel's activity. Battle site to be thoroughly searched and salvaged.

NARRATIVE

After receiving verified instructions from DSEC HQ - relayed via the Nuhar Waystation comms buoy - we proceeded as directed to the provided rendezvous coordinates where we were met by (what appeared to be) USS Kassandra. Highly suspicious of the situation, we remained cautious and followed protocol; ultimately insisting that the Kassandra CO reported to the Valley Forge in person for a mission debrief. This was adhered to, however shortly after greeting the arrivals in the transporter room, they sprung a trap to tag our escorting officers with transponders to bypass our transporter scattering and abduct them back to their ship, where they promptly cloaked and attempted to flee. The Valley Forge pursued, though was quickly deterred by the execution of one of the abducted security personnel; instead redirecting QanwI' to tail and observe the Kassandra.

They tracked the Terran vessel to the Lupan's Holy City and continued to monitor things there while the Valley Forge rallied allied forces for a rescue operation. Both the An and the Nuhar were counted heavily among the rescue task force and a diversionary tactic was implemented to divide the Lupan forces and effect a rescue mission. With a small number of Nuhar in support, the Valley Forge led an opening assault on the Holy City before feignting a retreat to lure the Lupan away from the defensive stronghold. This allowed the An mothership to warp in behind the Lupan forces and cut them off while engaging the Holy City. The Terran vessel was yet to make a show at this time, and - once the Holy City shields were dropped - scans suggested that our personnel had to be on board that vessel, with a lack of verified signatures on the station.

Events took an unprecedented turn when a large fleet of unidentified vessels approached from an outer rim heading. They moved immediately to engage the Holy City with the clear intent of destroying it, and so both our allied task force and the Lupan turned their attention on the new attackers who were soon confirmed as being of the Horde. The Kassandra joined the fight at this time and upon it's conclusion, contacted the Valley Forge with an offer of truce and to return the abducted personnel. Our crew commanding the ship at that time were thankfully amenable and we soon found ourselves back on our own bridge along with the Architect who had been awakened from stasis from the portal opened by the Holy City prior to it's destruction. The Horde fleet destroyed the Holy City, and though heavy losses were endured they fled the system towards Terminu. An allied force including the Lupan moved to pursue the remaining Horde vessels, while the Valley Forge, Kassandra and a number of allied vessels remained to secure the system. We engaged dialogue with the Terran CO and encouraged an air of mutual cooperation; offering what they - by their own admission - needed in order survive this time, though were unsuccessful and forced to let them depart (owing to extreme system draining of the Valley Forge resultant from implemented solution to disrupt Horde control over it's fleet, which left the ship drained down to emergency reserves).