ST:TTV608 | "Echo of Future's Past Pt. I"

Stardate 97870.3

After returning to find Terminu decimated, all hope seems lost for the war effort. That is until an untimely arrival as the repercussions of their decision not to act come back to haunt them. While everyone else deals with faces from the future, Lendaria must deal with one from her past, and Emma finally gets to welcome Rianni home as she returns from her mission on the Terran vessel.

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Keelah@crystyl FX | After dealing with the opportunistic pirates and restoring life to normal on board, the Valley Forge reunited with the QanwI' en route to Terminu Keelah@crystyl FX | Knowing the coalition fleet would have likely fallen back by now, the Valley Forge holds position at extreme range while QanwI' scouts the system under cloak, delivering a live feed to the + Keelah@crystyl + Valley Forge, which the bridge crew now watch with an air of trepidation... Keliaya@anncaris FX | The system is filled with ships of various different sizes, shapes and composition, almost all concentrated around the planet like an swarm of insects- chaotic, but somehow avoiding - Keliaya@anncaris:- knocking each other out of the sky. A little more observation reveals that the ships are not moving at random, but so well coordinated that without any pre-planned patterns or formations, they - Keliaya@anncaris:- are able to move naturally close by one another. Some of the ships appear to have linked up with one another, while transporter signals can be detected across the fleet. Keelah@crystyl:"Stars... it's like the coalition didn't even make a dent in their number... did our allies truly fare so poorly?” Keliaya@anncaris:"I think they've done some damage at least, but the Horde are very good at repairing on the go. I believe that's what they're doing now, with all these transports and shuttles and docked ships.” Keelah@crystyl:"Makes sense" she nods, "Do you have QanwI's sensor feed? Any indication of their numbers?” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "I'm reading 1935 vessels. They started at exactly 2000, which means the Coalition destroyed 65 so far. There's a lot more of them in various states of damage though. That's probably the - Keliaya@anncaris:- only reason they've stopped.” Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "But Terminu does not have any shipyard facilities or natural resources.” Keelah@crystyl:"Which means they'll soon be on the move again when they are sufficiently recovered…” Keliaya@anncaris:"Actually...Terminu doesn't have much of anything now.” Keliaya@anncaris FX | The scan data of the planet comes in...and it's nothing like the data of Terminu they had when they left the planet. It reads much like the Iconian ruins they left behind, with a blasted - Keliaya@anncaris:- surface and extreme volcanic activity. However, there are still lifesigns on the surface, crawling over it in some areas in fact, seeming to extract what little there is to extract and digging as - Keliaya@anncaris:- deep as the planet's core. Keelah@crystyl:"Alright, continue the feed from QanwI'. Senior staff review in 15 minutes" she disappears into her ready room to consider this new situation” Keelah@crystyl FX | 15 minutes later, the senior staff gathers in the conference room. Keliaya@anncaris takes a seat around the table, still scrolling through a PADD as she does. Keelah@crystyl sits at her usual seat, "Alright. First off, has anything new come to light from QanwI's surveillance in the last 15 minutes? Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "We believe some of the damage done to Terminu was by the Coalition. Most of the bombardment seems to be centred on the former settlements of Terminu, most likely to destroy the - Keliaya@anncaris:- thralls that they could not free rather than add them to the Horde's numbers. It would make no sense for the Horde to destroy them.” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "But some of the other damage to the planet is done by the Horde's very...brutal mining practices. They're virtually cutting open the planet with shipboard weapons and strip mining - Keliaya@anncaris:- anything of use. It's hard to say who did more damage to the planet overall, but I think it's safe to say Terminu won't be recolonized anytime soon.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "A logical conclusion given the circumstances" she leans back with a weary sigh, "It is fair to assume that the coalition has fallen back. I suppose in seeing this now, we can at least take + Keelah@crystyl:+ solace in the fact that our presence for the battle would not have made any significant change to the outcome. But the question remains; what do we do about it?” Keliaya@anncaris:"I'm fairly sure from reviewing the data that my original hypothesis is correct and that this is only a temporary pause for the Horde to repair the damage they've sustained so far. The Horde ships - Keliaya@anncaris:- are nothing special, but with the whole fleet together, they may as well be Borg. The coordination is remarkable- they're able to reallocate resources and components from ships that can spare - Keliaya@anncaris:- them to ones that need them without the use of any proper facilities. And like they do with dead thralls, they're cannibalizing wreckage and ships too damaged to repair.” Keliaya@anncaris:"I don't think it'll be too long before they're all warp-capable and combat ready again, and then they'll probably continue their advance.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra: "And - now I'm far from an expert when it comes to tactical concerns - but don't they have us outnumbered at about 1000 to 1?” Keelah@crystyl | Vrolmacht nods grimly, "The odds are not in favour. There is no value in pursuing a direct confrontation” Keelah@crystyl:"Then we should regroup with the main coalition fleet and form a broader strategy from there” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie frowns, deep in thought, "There has t'be... wait, maybe...?Yeah! Cap'n!” Keelah@crystyl looks over, "Commander?” Keliaya@anncaris looks over at Lennie curiously. Keelah@crystyl | Lennie taps away furiously on her PADD searching before spinning it to Keelah, "Th'inventory of wha' we confiscated from them pirates. See there; trilithium warhead!" she is clearly excited by the+ Keelah@crystyl:+ revelation with no thought to the fact that nobody else has a clue where she's going with it still Keelah@crystyl simply perks a brow. Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Trilithium's a nuclear inhibitor!" she looks around, falling disappointed at the continued blank face” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "A nulcear inhibitor - as in; stop all fusion... as in; within a star!” Keelah@crystyl frowns a little, "Commander are you suggesting...?” Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "Use the star to destroy the enemy. Like Martok and Worf at the Battle of Monac IV.” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie nods, miming a 'boom', "Quantum implosion! An' lace it all up wit' some o'tha' Kemocite we also took off 'em, I'm-a bettin' that'd spur a supernova!” Keelah@crystyl looks between the two in disbelief, "You aren't seriously suggesting we destroy an entire star system? That's absurd, just think of the consequences; there's no way to properly balance all the + Keelah@crystyl:+ future implications of such a drastic measure” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "But Cap'n, it could-” Keelah@crystyl raises a hand, "Enough. I appreciate the out-of-the-box ideas. But not this time. Besides, we couldn't even deliver it effectively. They would detect us far before we could get close enough to + Keelah@crystyl:+ launch. And even if we did find a way, the majority would just warp out before the explosion hit them” Keelah@crystyl draws a breath, "Alright, that's enough for now" to Vrolmacht, "As soon as QanwI' returns, set course to rendezvous with the coalition fleet. We will-...” Keelah@crystyl FX | The lights dim and switch to a throbbing red as the ship suddenly goes to alert status Keelah@crystyl | TQ's voice sounds of the intercom, "Senior staff to the bridge!” Keelah@crystyl glances around the table before promptly rising and heading out Keliaya@anncaris stands and heads out as well, "That doesn't sound good…” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie mutters as she follows, "Could this day get any worse…” Keelah@crystyl arriving back on the bridge, she holds pace while calling out, "Status?” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie quickly hands over at her station and reviews the information on her screen, "Cap'n, a spacial anomaly's formin' 100,000 km off our bow” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie glances up to Keelah, "I'm-a readin' a high density o'chroniton particles…” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra leans in to Lennie as she passes by, "You just /had/ to say it didn't you!" she teases Keelah@crystyl FX | Sure enough, a (relatively) short distance ahead of the Valley Forge, a swirl of wibbly wobbly energy begins building up... Keelah@crystyl:-/\- Intermission -/\- Keelah@crystyl:( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0wOD9TWynM ) --- Rianni@crystyl FX | Stardate 127856.2... Rianni@crystyl | The familiar Valley Forge bridge is at alert status, but even through the pulsing red lights the wear and tear on the ship is clearly visible Rianni@crystyl | Consoles around the room are scorched, smashed, non-functional or various combinations thereof Rianni@crystyl | The not-so-familiar crew work frantically to prepare for... something, when the turbolift door opens Rianni@crystyl | A young ensign at the comm station calls out over the rabble, "Captain on deck! Rianni@crystyl | Were this a cinematic sequence, we would see the lift door open from a zoomed in view at ground level, showing just the captain's worn boots as they step onto the bridge, following them and slowly+ Rianni@crystyl:+ panning up the familiar - yet also thread bare and battle-worn uniform - to greet the Captain's stern face as she takes her seat Rianni@crystyl barks out, "ETA?" Rianni@crystyl | The helmsman calls back of the wailing alert klaxon, "2 minutes to the border, Captain!” Rianni@crystyl:"Standby battle stations" Rianni@crystyl | Comm Ensign: "Captain, we're receiving a hail" Rianni@crystyl:"On screen..." she sounds clearly like she's not looking forward to this conversation as she stands Rianni@crystyl | A red misty environment appears on the screen before a crystalline Tholian appears, speaking in frantic sounding clicks and screeches that are painful to hear before a mechanical translation Rianni@crystyl follows: "Starfleet vessel. There is no haven for you here. Do not cross our borders” Rianni@crystyl clears her throat, "This is Captain Tierno of the Federation vessel Valley Forge. Ambassador, if you will-...” Rianni@crystyl | Tholian screeches, cutting her off with a wince, "Do not throw that name around like it means anything any more. There is no Federation, and you are a rogue element. You will not be warned again” Rianni@crystyl | The comm channel cuts Rianni@crystyl sighs, "Well, that went about as well as we could have hoped..." settling back into her chair she looks around with a cold gaze Rianni@crystyl:"Full charge to tactical systems and engage the cloak. Helm; heading 0-0-3 mark 4, engage” Rianni@crystyl | The lights dim and some secondary consoles even power down. Apparently full charge to tactical now means shutting down every last non-essential system to compensate... Rianni@crystyl | The minutes tick by in tense silence as the Valley Forge brazenly pushes ahead into Tholian space until the Sci officer calls out, "Target now in coming into range” Rianni@crystyl glances back, "Are you teams ready? Remember, we will only get one shot at this. We can /not/ afford any slips. Do I make myself clear?” Rianni@crystyl | The Sci officer nods, "Yes ma'am!” Rianni@crystyl FX | A classic Tholian asteroid base slowly comes into focus on the viewscreen Rianni@crystyl | Tac officer: "Their defense systems are online. Reading... 16 weavers in patrol” Rianni@crystyl smirks a little, "Bless. They are really trying, aren't they” Rianni@crystyl speaks up, "Load target pattern Omega-4 and standby to disengage the cloak” Rianni@crystyl | Tac: "Attack pattern confirmed. Awaiting your order” Rianni@crystyl leans in, watching the base draw nearer, "...execute!” Rianni@crystyl | The VF ripples into view midway through a strafing run across the surface of the asteroid, pulverizing a number of defense stations with a torpedo barrage as it banks around to unleash a second + Rianni@crystyl:+ barrage from more dorsal mounted launchers. Through all of this, multiple PD turrets light up the area with flack aimed at the 'weavers' as they try to close in, but to no avail. Rianni@crystyl | Sci: "Their shield generator is down!” Rianni@crystyl | The bridge shakes violently through a relentless barrage of weapons fire from the Tholians as more ships close in. Consoles explode and smoke vents from blown environmental systems overhead Rianni@crystyl slams her fist on her armrest, "Acquire target and energize, now!” Rianni@crystyl | Mia calls over a moment later, "We have it mon Capitaine!” Rianni@crystyl mutters a 'yes!' before calling out again, "Helm, get us the hell out of here! Mia, get that thing up and running!” Rianni@crystyl | Mia nods and ripples right out of view, presumably to reappear elsewhere on the ship Rianni@crystyl | The bridge shakes again as more Tholian ships close in and join the pounding to get more damage through VF's PD defense line Rianni@crystyl | The ship does a 180 barrel roll as it turns sharply away, but a dreaded orange line begins to draw itself across the view ahead. Followed by another, and another... Rianni@crystyl:"They're forming a web! Evasive manouvers!” Rianni@crystyl | Helm: "I can't Captain! They're all around us!” Rianni@crystyl:"Quantum torpedoes. Target the weavers directly in our path” Rianni@crystyl FX | VF fires an array of torpedoes in multiple directions, wiping out the Tholian ships, however as quick as they explode - others take their place and complete the web which energizes Rianni@crystyl | Sci: "It's no use Captain, they have us on all-" Rianni@crystyl | The Sci officer is cut off mid-sentence when her console explodes and launches her across the room. Rianni@crystyl | Winces with regret, but stays focused knowing others will call for medical Rianni@crystyl taps her comm panel, "Mia. I need a miracle here…” Rianni@crystyl | <C-Mia> "A moment, mon Capitaine! We are integrating the system now! Rianni@crystyl:<C> How long? Rianni@crystyl:<C-Mia> an hour, if we are lucky! Rianni@crystyl FX | The bridge is shaken roughly again by another explosion, the turbulence doesn't let up as over a dozen Tholian ships pound them from all directions Rianni@crystyl:<C> You have 5 minutes. Get it done! Rianni@crystyl | New Sci Officer: "Shields down to 18%!” Rianni@crystyl turns to tactical, "Get our birds in the air!" Rianni@crystyl FX | moments later, VF's signature hangar doors both lurch open - phaser fire pummeling the revealed deck shields - as two swarms of fighter craft pour out of each side Rianni@crystyl FX | The craft look alien at a glance, but become recognizable as Nuhar constructs, or at least a variation thereof. They begin lighting up the Tholian web casters with nose-mounted AP beams Rianni@crystyl FX | Again though, as quickly as the Tholian ships are downed, others take their place. Then, they begin to tighten the web... Rianni@crystyl FX | VF unleashes everything it has, lights - even the nacelles - flickering with power loss as every MW of power is diverted to the weapons all around the ship Rianni@crystyl FX | But still the web closes... Rianni@crystyl:<C> MIA! Rianni@crystyl:<C-Mia> We are almost there... Rianni@crystyl:<C> We are out of time Mia. Bring it online. Now! Rianni@crystyl FX | The ship shakes even more violently as the web first pushes through the forward saucer section causing explosive decompressions all across the forward mid-deck. Rianni@crystyl | Everyone on the bridge is thrown around the room as the ship begins to crumple.. Rianni@crystyl manages to climb back into her chair through the turbulence and brace as she faces the inevitable doom of that ominous orange web now filling what's left of the viewscreen... Rianni@crystyl FX | But then! The VF's deflector hums to life and begins to emit a massive buildup of wibbly-wobbly energy Rianni@crystyl 's eyes widen with a glimmer of hope as she sees the singularity begin to form. She runs forward, leaning over the dead (or possibly unconcious) helmsman, to active what engines they have left Rianni@crystyl braces on the console, petting it lightly, "Come on baby. Just a little more, you can do that for me. Can't you...?” Rianni@crystyl:-/\- Intermission -/\- --- Rianni@crystyl | Keelah perches on the edge of her seat, "What... chroniton particles?” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie nods, "Aye Cap'n. Wait... there's somethin' comin' through..." Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "Standby evasive manouvers” NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "Recommend we deploy ablative armour, Captain.” Rianni@crystyl FX | The anomaly fluctuates as a ship begins to emerge.. Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "Recommendation noted. Stand by for now..." she squints, "What is that...?” Rianni@crystyl FX | The emerging vessel becomes clear as the destroyed forward section of a saucer, soon giving way to the rest of the somewhat familiar shape Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "Commander, is that what it looks like...?" addressed to Lennie by context NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly taps her console, boosting sensor power. Rianni@crystyl | Lennie nods slowly, "It is Cap'n. IFF, metallurgic analysis, all adds up..." she looks up as the viewscreen zooms in on the decimated ship, "It's... us!” Rianni@crystyl FX | The battered future ship creeps clear of the anomaly. Clearly worse for wear, and not just the destroyed forward saucer. Much of the ship looks heavily modified and patch-repaired NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly glances over to Lennie, "More alternate Starfleets?” Rianni@crystyl FX | It draws nearer, coming to a stop a short way from the VF NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly taps her console, "No, the quantum signature matches our own, but there are signs of temporal displacement." Rianni@crystyl | Keelah pinches the bridge of her nose, "I'd better have a damned good reason for this…” Rianni@crystyl | TQ: "Captain... they're hailing us” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "Seeing what we run into out here, it might not even be your choice, Captain.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah looks up and straightens some in her seat, "...On screen” Rianni@crystyl | The viewscreen shifts to show the equally battered bridge, and a somewhat relieved looked Captain. But not Keelah.. Rianni@crystyl | Keelah is beyond even perking a brow this time. She just... stares in disbelief Rianni@crystyl smiles, dusting the shoulders of her uniform off, "Captain Keelah. My God are you a sight for sore eyes. Do forgive the intrusion, I have to drop in unannounced like this, but as dear old friend and + Rianni@crystyl:+ mentor once told me many years ago; the needs of the many..." Rianni@crystyl | Keelah frowns a little, "Forgive me if I find it... difficult to take you at face value... Captain. But arriving here in this manner and quoting Vulcan proverbs at me does nothing to solidify + Rianni@crystyl:+ your position” Rianni@crystyl chuckles, "Apologies. I am indeed Captain Rianni Terno of the Valley Forge. Please Captain, I will gladly explain everything, but as your sensors no doubt tell you; we are having a slight situation + Rianni@crystyl:+ over here at the moment. We barely escaped, but some of them may have been drawn in with us. Our weapons are offline, so you need to destroy them before they can attack either of us” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah’s frown deepens, "Destroy... who?” Rianni@crystyl:| Vrolmacht, "I think I have an idea... 3 Tholian Orb Weavers emerging from the anomaly. Their weapons are charged” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah; "Hail the-..." the bridge shakes lightly as one of the Tholians immediately fires Rianni@crystyl:"Believe me Captain, they are in no mood to talk. They are not of your time so you need not fear temporal consequences” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "Says the one who apparently just took a starship back in time…” NPC@annpc#557 turns back to her console and quickly taps to transfer the additional power from sensors to shields. Rianni@crystyl FX | The bridge shakes again with more weapons fire Rianni@crystyl | Keelah sighs and nods, "Fire at will Mr. Vrolmacht. Try to disable them, maybe then they'll be willing to talk…” Rianni@crystyl FX | The Valley Forge returns fire, but the Tholian vessels are significantly weakened either from their the state of their universe, or the trip through the anomaly. Either way, minimal phaser fire + Rianni@crystyl:+ quickly despatches all 3 of them by the time the anomaly closes Rianni@crystyl | Keelah rises, glaring at the viewscreen, "Well Captain. Not only have you broken every rule in the book by coming here, but you brought a firefight to us that was not ours. I expect a /very/ good Rianni@crystyl:+ explanation for all of this…” Rianni@crystyl purses her lips, "I know this is difficult for you, so will forgive your insolent tone. With your permission, my senior staff and I will beam over to brief you properly" Rianni@crystyl | Keelah considers this a moment, "I do not want any temporal duplicates on board if I can help it. Does your senior staff include anyone else currently serving on this vessel?” Rianni@crystyl nods, "I could give you names but-" she winks, "-spoilers! I will leave those behind who were serving under you during this time period. Sufficient?” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods after a moment, "Sufficient" before the comm closes Rianni@crystyl | Keelah joins Kazra and Vrolmacht in the transporter room, nodding to the operator that they are clear to energize Rianni@crystyl FX | The transporter energizes and Rianni appears, flanked by a selection of her officers Rianni@crystyl looks around with a bright smile before her gaze settles on Keelah Rianni@crystyl:"Permission to come aboard, Captain?" she jokes, stepping off the pad and approaching Keelah directly Rianni@crystyl:"My God... I never dreamed..." she shakes her head, "It is /good/ to see you again Keelah" she braces the Vulcan tightly by the shoulders Rianni@crystyl | Keelah perks a brow, studying the familiar - yet unfamiliar - features, "Rianni... This is... difficult to accept” Rianni@crystyl chuckles, "I imagine so" looking to Kazra, "Go ahead Doctor, take your scans” Rianni@crystyl | Kazra glances to Keelah and proceeds NPC@annpc#557 | One of the officers look near identical to Supreme Commander Vora, save for the red markings instead of black and, of course, the red striped Starfleet officer's uniform with the pips of a - NPC@annpc#557 - Lieutenant Commander. She steps off the pad behind Rianni, giving Keelah a wide smile, "Keelah. It's been a long time.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah looks past Rianni, "Apparently so... forgive me, but... do I know you yet?” Rianni@crystyl glances over her shoulder with a slight smirk NPC@annpc#557 | The half-Arshai nods, "You do, but you probably remember me a lot...smaller." She smirks. "I'm Yala-Orion, Chief Tactical Officer of the Valley Forge.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah focuses a moment before she clicks, "Vora's daughter?!” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala smiles and nods, "Clone and daughter, yes.” Rianni@crystyl | Kazra nods to Keelah, "Scans confirm it Captain. She is exactly who she appears to be” Rianni@crystyl:"And my operations chief; Setek" she offers a hand to the opposite side indicating a statuesque Nausicaan in Starfleet uniform. Rianni@crystyl:"Others send their regards, but as you requested…” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah raises a hand, "I get it, let's not go there. I still get enough headaches thinking back on my temporal mechanics classes at the academy to know better than to invite future knowledge” Rianni@crystyl chuckles, "I'm afraid in order to explain our situation to you, there will have to be some degree of said knowledge. But I can keep it to the bare facts and avoid personal details at least” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods, "I appreciate it. At least whilst we get to the bottom of this situation. But come, let us go somewhere more comfortable and you can tell us what exactly is going on here... Captain” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah still clearly has difficulty seeing Rianni as anything more than a Cadet, let alone a Captain more seasoned than herself... Rianni@crystyl smiles, apparently seeing that in Keelah's face as she follows. NPC@annpc#557 | Yala chuckles slightly as well while following behind Rianni. Rianni@crystyl FX | The group are led to the conference room where Vf's own senior staff await lining one side of the table Rianni@crystyl instinctively goes for 'her' chair before pausing for thought and settling down the side of the table NPC@annpc#557 | Yala takes a seat at the side of the table as well, beside Rianni. Rianni@crystyl | The VF regulars all watch with a mix of disbelief and uncertainty while Keelah takes /her/ seat with a glance to Rianni. Rianni@crystyl FX | The wartorn future VF sits conveniently in view outside the windows, in case the worn out uniforms weren't enough reminder to everyone of the harsh future this crew has come from. Rianni@crystyl looks around the faces on the opposite side of the table with a warm smile, "This is truly a sight for sore eyes. Words can not describe how good it is to see all of you again - here - like this" Rianni@crystyl | Lennie gives Yala and Setek a curious look before addressing Rianni, "I... take it y'all got a new crew in ya time then. Whassit, 30 years?" Rianni@crystyl smiles and nods, "Indeed Tabadi. There are some familiar faces among my crew, but..." she sighs, "...it's been a long 30 years” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie doubletakes, "Tabadi?!” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala looks over Lennie's uniform before glancing back to Rianni, "I don't think she's a Tabadi yet, Captain.” Rianni@crystyl:"Oh, right sorry. Spoilers..." she gives a little wink Rianni@crystyl:"But yes, much has changed in that time as well. Setek is my Operations Chief, Yala - tactical, and Sehb heads up my R&D section" she adds, gesturing to the male Vulcan who was with them the whole + Rianni@crystyl:+ time and not just added with this scene…” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah exchanges glances with the young Vulcan, "Division head at your age? Quite the accomplishment, LT" Rianni@crystyl | Sehb /smiles/ back, "Thank you... Captain Se'Lai” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah's gaze lingers suspiciously on the Vulcan a moment before turning to Rianni, "Do I want to know...?" Rianni@crystyl:"Not unless you want to redact your earlier directive regarding future information” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie's gaze meanwhile lingers on Yala, clearly seeing something in her she recognizes NPC@annpc#557 catches Lennie's gaze, proving to be as perceptive as her mother, "Is there something you wanted to know..." she takes a moment to study Lennie's pips, "Commander?” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie: "There's somethin' familiar 'bout ya, but th'only Arshai on board I know's Mana an' ya don't look like her…” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala smirks slightly, "Here's a hint- maybe being half-Orion is part of the reason too." Rianni@crystyl | Lennie thinks a moment, "Wait... noooo - Vora? Ya /tha'/ Yala!” NPC@annpc#557 smiles fully and nods, "You figured it out. Yes, I am that Yala.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah 'ahems', "Fascinating as this all is, we have serious business to discuss here" to Rianni, "Clearly you are here for a reason” Rianni@crystyl nods, "And I promised you an explanation. But this can only be achieved by also presenting contextual knowledge of the future as we know it” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods, "I trust the judgement of everyone present to keep this knowledge classified” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie: "Anyways, it's all fiction now 'aight? I mean, even by comin'ere y'all have already changed th'past as ya know it. So tha' future's already gone” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala nods, "Exactly. By the act of coming and and telling you, thing are unlikely to happen exactly the same way. If it even ends up being similar at all.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb: "Assuming - of course - that we do not hail from a timeline where these events previously occurred, making this a predestination paradox” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie looks to Sehb, "Well... is it?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb perks a brow, "No” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie eyerolls, "Then why'd ya even bring it up!” Rianni@crystyl chuckles Rianni@crystyl:"Anyway. Your assumptions are correct insofar that we came here intentionally, without predetermined knowledge of events to fulfil. Which means we have done so with the express intention of altering + Rianni@crystyl:+ past events as we know them" NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "But that must break numerous Starfleet directives and regulations.” NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "Unless you are acting against orders?" Rianni@crystyl:"It does. But it is also not the first time we have expressly resorted to temporal manipulation to save the Federation” Rianni@crystyl:"As for orders…” Rianni@crystyl:"There are no orders anymore" NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "What do you mean?" Rianni@crystyl looks to Kelly, "Orders come from a chain of command. Chain of command implies a command structure. That structure only comes from an organization” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "So Starfleet and its chain of command are...gone?" She looks across at the future officers for a second before asking, "The Horde?" Rianni@crystyl nods, "Now don't misunderstand; there are Starfleet ships like the Valley Forge out there still working to uphold our ideals and protect those who need it” Rianni@crystyl:"But Starfleet and the Federation as you know them now are long gone by our measure” NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "What about the other powers? The Klingons, or the Romulans?” Rianni@crystyl shakes her head, "All swallowed by the Horde. The large population centres of the galactic powers were like beacons to them as they swept across the alpha and beta quadrant” Rianni@crystyl:"By the time the Horde reached the Sol System and the heart of the Federation, those former powers had all been consumed by it” NPC@annpc#557 | Kazra: "I suppose we didn't have much time to implement the defenses we developed, like the implants?” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "All the surviving Starfleet crews have them. But even if we were able to prepare every allied ship in time, the numbers of the Horde and those they added to their ranks along the way - NPC@annpc#557:- would've still been too much.” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie: "So y'all believe tha' by comin' back to th'here an' now, ya can really make a difference 'bout all tha'?” Rianni@crystyl:"That is my intention, yes. My crew have sacrificed everything to get here just for the chance of putting things right again” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "But why this time and place specifically?” Rianni@crystyl:"We have spent years piecing together the events of the past, backtracking and recalculating timelines - thanks to our Krenim friends who are exceptionally good at staying off the radar” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "Krenim friends?” Rianni@crystyl:"We did not look further back because - contrary to what you may believe of us by our presence here - but we are actually incredibly conscious of the timelines preservation and did not want to go + Rianni@crystyl:+ any further back than necessary" she looks to Kelly, "Yes, the Krenim are experts in temporal mechanics. Starfleet has actually worked with them previously on similar ventures, though that may not + Rianni@crystyl:+ be common knowledge in this time period yet…” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah, "I am aware of those events. So, you determined that this was the first point you could target for an incursion to achieve the desired results” Rianni@crystyl nods, "Exactly, yes. Not changing things any further back than we had to” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "Must be one of those instances of temporal manipulation you mentioned. Along with more high profile ones like Kirk and the Bounty..." Rianni@crystyl:"Indeed. I am afraid to say that your present course of action - while not directly /causing/ events to unfold this way, will certainly miss a chance to prevent them. That is our purpose here” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "You want us to destroy the Horde fleet, don't you?” Rianni@crystyl smiles and nods, "Very astute" turning to Keelah, "I will have to divulge more in order to explain this” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods, leaning back to listen as she's just about given up trying to keep this temporally clean at this point. Rianni@crystyl:"As our history records; the Horde fleet currently rebuilding at Terminu progressed towards Vue En where it joined with the Horde's /main/ fleet to bring down the Arshai and all the refugees you have+ Rianni@crystyl:+ been funnelling there this whole time. With that exponentially larger force, they progressed through The Valley at a geometric rate” Rianni@crystyl:"By the time they reached Underworld, their fleet - well, historical accounts vary drastically - but we believe it numbered somewhere between 10,000 - 20,000 strong” NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "Are you implying that this force is /not/ the main fleet?” Rianni@crystyl turns a cold gaze to Vrolmacht, "I am implying nothing Commander; these are the facts according to our historical accounts” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah, "Over 10,000 enemy vessels having access to the subspace corridor network used by the Carrans would certainly be a key turning point. but how do you know that destroying the Terminu fleet + Rianni@crystyl:+ will prevent history from repeating?” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly nods, "That's what I was thinking too. If this fleet we're faced with now isn't actually their main fleet...what do you think destroying them will achieve?” Rianni@crystyl leans back as well with a soft sigh, "In truth, we don't. I do not have the luxury of insight into every alternate timeline, only our own" Rianni@crystyl:"What we know is this; the combined number of both Horde fleets is enough to overwhelm your coalition and take Vue En. It's a downhill slope from there” Rianni@crystyl:"We have no historical accounts of the other fleet prior to that engagement so are unable to take any action on that front. But by taking this fleet out of the equation, that should reduce their + Rianni@crystyl:+ numbers sufficiently before they move on Vue En, that the coalition can stop them there” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "So you don't even know if what you've committed to here will even change things…” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "No, but the less thralls there are, the better.” Rianni@crystyl snaps that cold gaze back to Keelah, "I know what happens if we /don't/ take out this fleet” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah briefly stares back before giving a slight nod, "In temporal manipulations terms, I suppose that is as good as we can hope for. And better justification than has been used in the past for + Rianni@crystyl:+ such bold moves. In the past...? The future...?" shakes her head, "I hate these tenses…” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb smiles at that Rianni@crystyl | Lennie looks across to Rianni, "So... ya came 'ere t'fix things, tha's all well an' good. But why're ya /'ere/ on this ship? Whaddaya need us for...?" NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly nods at Lennie's question, "Your ship's...not exactly in the best shape, but you're probably more than sufficient to carry out the same plan, aren't you?” Rianni@crystyl smiles a little, "True enough, and my ship will soon be fighting fit again" she nods towards the window NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly turns her gaze over curiously Rianni@crystyl FX | Outside, the future VF still sits there with it's exposed forward saucer in plain view. Only it's... less exposed now? Watching closely enough, the keen eye would spot structural regeneration+ Rianni@crystyl:+ a la Borg occurring NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly slooowly turns back to Rianni, "Is it doing what I think it's doing?” Rianni@crystyl nods, "Are you really so suprised that we've assimilated more of the Borg in the last 30 years? Even now you have adapted Borg technology on this ship in your ablative armour nano-generators, right?” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly nods, "True. It's just...different, seeing the Valley Forge do that.” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie nods, staring out the window, "And a lil' creepy. Not gonna lie” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "How far have the Horde spread by now? In your future that is. The Borg, the Dominion, the An, are any of them at war with them yet?” Rianni@crystyl:"Virtually the whole galaxy at this point. There are - of course - survivors and pockets of resistance. The Borg and Iconians hold fairly strong defensive lines, but there is no corner untouched by + Rianni@crystyl:+ by the Horde at this point” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie: "Well I can certainly see why ya'd feel justified in tryin'a change tha' future…” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly nods as well, "I suppose it's only a matter of time before the Horde overrun your entire galaxy.” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "The Borg can't hold forever. They only assimilate, while the Horde can both assimilate and breed. And as tough as the Iconians are, they didn't manage to stop the Horde twe hundred - NPC@annpc#557:- thousand years ago, and on their own they won't manage it now.” Rianni@crystyl:"So. We stop the Horde advance before it starts by taking out the Terminu fleet. You then get continue your mission and find the Heart of War to stop them properly” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "So there was something you needed from us in order to achieve this...?” Rianni@crystyl nods, "Two things actually. Three if you count the power transfer I'm about to ask for in order to expedite our repairs” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah groans and looks to Kelly in deference NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "We can spare some power, but it depends on the plan and how much we'll need in reserve for whatever part we play in it. So...what's the other two?” Rianni@crystyl:"Don't worry, we just need a little bump to re-energize our dilithium crystals” Rianni@crystyl:"As for the other two things; first is the kemocite-laced trilithium warhead in your armoury” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah watches Rianni, seemingly unsurprised by this as she awaits the second Rianni@crystyl:"Second is your main deflector dish. Or to be precise, use of it” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "Why not your own? Or do you need it for another part of the plan?” Rianni@crystyl:"Ours was burned out by the temporal incursion. Even the nanites won't be able to restore that” Rianni@crystyl looks to Keelah, "This is the part of the plan you're not going to like…” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah perks abrow, "only /this/ part...?" Rianni@crystyl chuckles at Keelah's response, "Oh how I've missed that look” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb in turn, perks a brow at Rianni's comment Rianni@crystyl:"As I already eluded to, I learned of Lendaria's plan to use the warhead. The problem is that you can't effectively deploy it, at least not alone” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "One more ship won't make a difference in those overall numbers” Rianni@crystyl:"No, of course. But the truth is, we can't do this reliably without both Valley Forge's” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "Why's that?” Rianni@crystyl:"Because only with our combined effort can we utilize your neutralization method to encompasse the entire orbiting fleet there” Rianni@crystyl:"See, the problem with Lendaria's plan was that you had no way to effectively deploy the warhead whilst also containing the Horde fleet to ensure their destruction by the resulting stellar explosion” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "I assume that's what you need the deflector for?” Rianni@crystyl nods, "I know you've done it once already. Suffice to say we have refined your technique over the years - a method which we will naturally help you implement” Rianni@crystyl:"So we need you to enter orbit and neutralize the fleet in a carefully timed manouvre while we approach the star from the far side of the system and deploy the warhead” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "What exactly are we using- graviton pulses?” Rianni@crystyl shakes her head, "The pulsewave technique you developed previously to apply the neural inhibitor effect” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "Oh! /That/ one. That makes more sense, and I imagine you had plenty of time and need to refine it…” Rianni@crystyl:"Indeed. Even if our deflector were salvageable, we could not deploy the warhead close enough to effectively encompass the planet before the fleet regains control and departs” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie frowns a little, "Wait a minute... if ya deflector's all fried from ya time jump... how're y'all plannin' on gettin' back? “ Rianni@crystyl looks back with mournful eyes, "As I said earlier, Commander; my crew and I have sacrificed everything to complete this mission…” Rianni@crystyl | Lennie takes a moment, "This's a one way trip for ya ain't it…” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Once we do this, our history will be rewritten. By all rights, we shouldn't exist, there's already another version of us in this universe.” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala smirks at Rianni, "Or in your case Captain, versions…” Rianni@crystyl:"And even if it were possible for us to return to our time; we'd be returning a world we do not know. One where we also already exist - I hope" she glances to Yala with a chuckle, "Right, I'd + Rianni@crystyl:+ forgotten about that. The me of this time must still be on the Terran ship” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Don't those aliens still have a copy of you as well? Or did they terminate that? I swear, you have more copies than my mother's clone models.” Rianni@crystyl:"All part of our cunning plan to take over the galaxy once the Horde is gone" she joks, dryly. Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "Well, 30 years of wartime service or not. I did not mentor a bright young cadet to the tone of brazenly throwing away a starship and it's crew” Rianni@crystyl:"The needs of the many, Captain” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah frowns, "Enough with the Vulcan proverbs today. Honestly, why does everyone think throwing those at me will hold extra sway…” Rianni@crystyl chuckles, "Apologies. But you are right, of course. I certainly have no desire to die on this mission. However, I have long accepted that possibility, as has my crew” Rianni@crystyl:"So all being well, we will all fly out of that system victorious. Then my crew and I..." she smiles, "... will just disappear into the night, find a nice quiet little planet out of the way somewhere+ Rianni@crystyl:+ that we can sit back and enjoy the peaceful retirement we spent our lives fighting for” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "I suppose that's a reasonable target." pausing for thought, "Though I am naturally adverse to any such extreme plan, and have already dismissed this one once already. I can not deny the + Rianni@crystyl:+ impact of your presence here, and the possiblities that brings to the equation. But this will require time to fully consider…” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "If there is nothing further, I suggest we leave this for now and focus on your repairs” Rianni@crystyl nods, "It will take time as well for us to enhance your systems. With your permission, my staff can remain here and assist your people with the upgrades” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods: "But no additional personnel without my express concent. I still don't want to put anyone in the position of facing their future selves, or even someone with intimate knowledge” Rianni@crystyl nods in agreement, "Of course” NPC@annpc#557 | Kelly: "I'll have my people ready to implement these upgrades. We'll need all the improvement you can give to pull off something like this; the last- and first- time we used this method, it - NPC@annpc#557:- took most of our available power just to disrupt them for a few minutes.” Rianni@crystyl looks down the table as she stands, "Sehb, Yala; remain here to assist them. I must get back to oversee efforts from our side” Rianni@crystyl to Keelah: "I will await your signal, Captain” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala nods, "I'll make sure they're ready, Captain.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah stands, focused on Rianni, "And you shall have it in due course... Captain” Rianni@crystyl smiles as they all begin to filter out. --- Lendaria@crystyl exits the conference room alongside Yala, "So, anywhere particular y'all gotta start on things?" NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "We need to configure your deflector for our refined pulse, optimize the power consumption and program in the maneuver. The last one can be done in a minute, but I probably want to run - NPC@annpc#557:- it through with your tac department. Better to save it for last and make sure the ship is technically ready. Your crew can figure out the maneuver on the fly if they need to.” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "So, deflector control's probably a good place to start.” Lendaria@crystyl:"Right! Tha's not far, jus' down... oh right, y'all probably know ya way around 'ere as well as we do don't ya!" she chuckle” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala chuckles, "Yes I do. I grew up here after all, but it's been a while since I've seen her like this.” Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah... looks like y'all ready had a rough life over there. I'm-a sad t'see tha', can't have been a nice growin' up…” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "It had its difficulties, but at least I survived. And it wasn't all bad, either. Growing up on a ship, as desperate as circumstances were, we were still like family.” NPC@annpc#557 | She smiles slightly, "You know what that's like.” Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah... so you'se, um... know me?” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "I think we've met already, haven't we? At least briefly. I remember coming here once or twice with my mother.” Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah but I mean, in ya own time though. I'm-a still around? Ya seem awful familiar wit'me from one childhood meetin', an' ya Cap'n clearly knew a version o'me" NPC@annpc#557 | Yala smirks, "Familiar's...one way to say it. But Keelah probably doesn't want me to tell you too much, and I don't blame her. Department of Temporal Investigations is still around for you - NPC@annpc#557:- after all. Still, not looking forward to getting a lecture from her.” Lendaria@crystyl sighs softly, "Yeah, I guess ya right. Sorry, s'hard not t'get curious. Anyways; deflector control" she smiles, stepping into the room NPC@annpc#557 | Yala steps into deflector control, looking around with wide eyes, "Yeah...it's been a while since I've seen everything in such good shape. This isn't long after you got your repairs and refit - NPC@annpc#557:- from Vue En, is it?” Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah, ya can still smell th'fresh paint in some areas!” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "I can imagine," she steps over to one of the consoles. "Just the way I remember everything, too. I think it's only a little before I came on board.” Lendaria@crystyl:"Oh yeah? I suppose tha' must've been when th'Horde attacked Vue En?” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala nods, "My mother entrusted me to you when she led all the ships that had crews equipped with implants or augmentations to buy time for the evacuation.” Lendaria@crystyl shakes her head despondently, "It don't even bear thinkin' about. Th'thought tha' after all we done so far, for it all t'have gone so wrong…” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala sighs, "Yeah. Well, that's why we're here now, isn't it?” Lendaria@crystyl:"An' I for one am glad for it. I jus' feel bad tha' we failed ya first time though an' tha's th'life ya known” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala pauses her work on the console and smiles, "It had its good moments, too. Mostly thanks to you and the rest of the crew.” Lendaria@crystyl smiles, "Oh yeah?” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala nods and chuckles, "It's strange, seeing you around my age. And I probably look like my mother, don't I?” Lendaria@crystyl:"Surprisingly so, yeah! Well... maybe not so surprisingly…” Lendaria@crystyl:"I, uh... take it ya ain't seen her since comin' to th'ship?” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "No, but I must be coming pretty close to what she looked like. She's about twice my age, but she spent most of her time in cold environments or cold suits, while I spent more time here - NPC@annpc#557:- with your environmental settings.” Lendaria@crystyl:"That'd explain it!” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Still, I'm used to you aging with me. Must be strange for you too. I know you didn't exactly have the best history with my mother.” Lendaria@crystyl rubs the back of her neck, "Ahh... yeah, we /maybe/ went through a period o'tryin' to kill each other... But I'm-a glad we got over it!” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala chuckles, "I bet she would've never guessed that you'd play almost as much of a role in raising me than she did.” Lendaria@crystyl smiles at the thought, "I did? Well this jus' reached a whole new level o'awkward" she chuckles NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Well, it wasn't just you. Mana, Ann, Mia, Keelah, Vrolmacht, hell, pretty much half the crew," she laughed. "But being the leader of sorts of the Orions on the Valley Forge at the time, - NPC@annpc#557:- it was only natural.” Lendaria@crystyl slowly turns to Yala, "Leader? Wait... is tha' why ya Cap'n called me Tabadi?” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "As the Captain said...spoilers," she smirks. "But you're already pretty much a leader for them. You might be Chief Science Officer, but it's not just the scientists who look up to you.” Lendaria@crystyl:"Seriously?" she sounds genuinenly surprised, "If anyone, I'd-a figured folks'd look up t'Emma more like tha'. Unless she weren't around? Oh Goddess, did she... no! Don't tell me, I don't wanna + Lendaria@crystyl:+ know... but I gotta! unless she did, then don't tell me…” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Don't worry, I won't tell you too much. All I'll say is that you're more of a role model than you might think," she smiles Lendaria@crystyl:"Well, that's uh good t'know" she smile NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "One thing I should tell you though…” Lendaria@crystyl:"Oh?” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Stopping the Horde fleet here will help. But I'm not sure if it'll save Vue En. The Federation, maybe. But the second fleet alone might be enough to break through the Coalition and the - NPC@annpc#557:- Colonial Fleet. There's not enough time to give everyone the implant, and if they're through...the planet is lost.” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "The Captain wants you to resume your search once the fleet here is destroyed. It's true, no one knows exactly where the second fleet came from. But...there's theories.” Lendaria@crystyl:"Hey don't think like tha'! We'se gonna make th'difference wit' ya help, you'll see!” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala nods, "That's why I'm telling you this.” Lendaria@crystyl:"Ya tellin' me ya don't think ya plan'll work... to ensure tha' it does?” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "It'll help, but it might not be enough to save Vue En. The second fleet- we might not know its exact path, but we know there were a sizable number of Ice Giant- Felmoran, ships. Enough - NPC@annpc#557:- to suggest that Czostak had fallen, and that the main Horde fleet was the ones responsible.” Lendaria@crystyl:"So ya reckon they came from there?” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "I think they passed by there, at the very least, and added the strength of the Felmoran fleet to their own. The Felmorans would never stand with the Arshai, but if there's one thing I - NPC@annpc#557:- know about Keelah, it's that I should never say never when it comes to her ability to talk former enemies into things.” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "The Felmorans are a special kind of stubborn, though. But if you can do anything- give them the implants so they can at least mount some resistance, or convince them to evacuate, it - NPC@annpc#557:- could make the Horde more manageable at Vue En.” Lendaria@crystyl:"I get it! So th'timin's such tha' th'Felmorans maybe ain't fallen to 'em yet. We can not only th'Horde off at Vue En, but wit' them!” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala smiles, "Exactly. The Valley Forge never discovered Czostak where I come from, but the Arshai are familiar with it. If you rendez-vous with the Coalition and ask Commander Rayya…” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Well, I shouldn't tell you anything more you shouldn't know.” Lendaria@crystyl:"Hey, there's spoilers then there's ya mission. Ya whole purpose in comin' ere were t'make sure we stop th'Horde true this time. So anythin' ya know should be fair game there!” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "I should probably let Keelah find out about the Felmorans herself, though. What little I know, I've heard from the Arshai, and it might be a little on the biased side," she chuckles. Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah, she don't need perspectives or anythin'. Smiles aside, she's still Vulcan so facts alone're perfect” Lendaria@crystyl:"Jus' tell her about th'place an' ya intel on th'second fleet comin' through there. Give her a rough timeline t'work to an' I'm-a sure she'll do th'rest!” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala nods, "I'll tell her everything I can. But first, let's make sure we can stop this fleet here.” NPC@annpc#557 | She turns back to the console, tapping for a bit more before taking a step aside, "How does it look?” Lendaria@crystyl takes a look, "Impressive stuff if I'm-a readin' this right. Probably best Kelly casts an eye over it too, but this's certainly a promisin' start" NPC@annpc#557 | Yala smiles, "I'll make sure she sees it, especially when I get around to working on the power optimization. Not exactly my area of strength, but the people who know that best are, well... - NPC@annpc#557:- already here.” Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah, I figured the Cap'n's rule on not puttin' duplicated folks together meant leavin' some behind there” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Good thing I got here before the current me is on board. But only because that was the plan, trying to save Vue En and all.” Lendaria@crystyl:"I'm-a hazard a guess tha' Emma's still around. I mean, ya Rianni looks kinda happy an'all, given th'whole galactic turmoil thing o'course” Lendaria@crystyl:"An' Mia too. Still chirpy as ever I bet!” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala chuckles, "Yes she is. But those are all the guesses I'll confirm.” NPC@annpc#557 | She sighs slightly, "We still have a lot of work to do to make sure your Valley Forge is ready.” Lendaria@crystyl:"Yeah, le's catch up wit' Kelly an' Sehb. See how they're gettin' on!" --- Rianni@crystyl FX | Meanwhile, Sehb joins Kelly in engineering to work on preparing the VF's systems Keliaya@anncaris:"The first time we used this, it drained all our power. We weren't at full power from the earlier fighting, but- well, I'm sure you're familiar with the circumstances." Rianni@crystyl | Sehb nods, "indeed. The basic premise of this overhaul repurposes your transport inhibitor system. With the shipwide emitters tied in to the main deflector” Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "That's a smart idea. The system was designed to better handle power distribution.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb looks around, "However, I am not so familiar with your present configuration. This will require your guidance” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "That's what I'm here for. I imagine the system's gone through quite a few changes since...now.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb perks a brow, "That is putting it lightly, Commander” Keliaya@anncaris taps over at a console and brings up a diagram of the transport inhibitor system, "So, were you already working in Starfleet at this time, or a little too early for you? I'm not exactly the best - Keliaya@anncaris:- at judging Vulcan age, but the Captain called you young." Rianni@crystyl | Sehb smiles, "Yes, service at a young age seems to be something of a family tradition. But to answer your question; no. In this time period I am not yet born” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "You definitely want some local expertise then," she smirks slightly. "And I might not be the best at reading Vulcans, but I can spot one who smiles just as easily as everyone else. Was - Keliaya@anncaris:- that how you ended up here? Because of Keelah and what she stands for?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb chooses his response carefully, "That is... not entirely accurate, though I would be hard pressed to say that it has anything to do with what she stood for” Keliaya@anncaris chuckles, "Can't tell me too much about yourself and the future, I suppose? I've got my theories, but I won't press you on them too much. Unless they're relevant.” Keliaya@anncaris:"Anyways, this is the system as it is now. How different is yours?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb looks things over, "Aah yes, I can see the bare bones of it within this now. Fortunately our chief engineer remained true to your initial work” Keliaya@anncaris:"That's good. At least it isn't too difficult. Do you think we can mostly recreate the way your emitters are tied in, or would we need to start over and make something different, just based on the - Keliaya@anncaris:- same premise?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb, "Logically; given that our system was evolved from your current one, our most reliable method to proceed would be to replicate that evolution" he hands Kelly a PADD of the 'after' picture of+ Rianni@crystyl:+ the grid Keliaya@anncaris looks over the PADD, "I see what you mean by remaining true. We should be able to recreate this. You're not worried that this might give us too much advancement we shouldn't have yet?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb chuckles, "Our whole mission here was to bring you this advancement. It would be a little late for doubts now, wouldn't it? Besides, it is not really technological advancement in the temporal+ Rianni@crystyl:+ mechanics sense; rather more... a different objective view on the implementation of your current technology” Keliaya@anncaris nods and begins tapping on the console while holding the PADD in the other hand, "True. We probably would've changed things around to look like this sooner or later anyways. You're R&D, right?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb: "Correct. And yes, you would have. In fact; you did" he smiles” Keliaya@anncaris:"Well, that would explain why the core of it is still more or less the same.” Keliaya@anncaris:"And speaking of technological advancement...have you made much in your time? In general I mean, I'm not asking to learn specifics," she chuckles Keliaya@anncaris:"I imagine fighting the Horde for so long might've spurred some advancements in certain areas, but you probably don't have much time for a lot of research and experimentation, do you? Especially - Keliaya@anncaris:- for non-tactical projects.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb: "Indeed, what little real advancement there has been has really come in the direct sense of fighting the Horde. Much like our implants” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "That's what I thought. I noticed your uniforms haven't really changed either. Probably not much time for a fashion redesign either.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb: "It is also more practical to simply reuse what we already have” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb, "In order to sustain our drawn out conflicts, power allocation is a preium on our ship. Things like replicators are a rare luxury” Keliaya@anncaris:"And it probably helps to have something people recognize. Did any Starfleet ships get taken by the Horde? There probably wasn't enough time to equip every crew with implants, was there?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb nods, "Indeed. The Captain was not exaggerating when she said that Starfleet was gone. The truth is, we don't even know how many are left. We hear rumours, sometimes run into another vessel. + Rianni@crystyl:+ But most estimates suggest that barely enough remain to form a single fleet” Keliaya@anncaris:"The capabilities you have- the regeneration and this inhibitor field, is it unique to the Valley Forge, or was there time to share it with the rest of Starfleet before the Horde came?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb: "We have shared what we know with those able to implement it. However the regeneration required careful manipulation of Borg salvage; which seldom few are able to do” Keliaya@anncaris:"Rianni- your Captain, said the Borg were still holding out against the Horde. Is that only in the Delta Quadrant, or do they still have a presence elsewhere?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb: "There may be a few scattered resistance matrices, but for the most part they reinforce their borders around the Queen" Keliaya@anncaris:"And the salvage you used, is it mostly from wreckage from their battles with the Horde, or did you actually attack Borg vessels for it?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb shakes his head, "Oh stars, no! Some may resort to desperately turning on one another, but the Captain ensures we hold true to the ideals of old Starfleet and work with our allies” Keliaya@anncaris widens her eyes, "They're allies now? I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. It wouldn't make sense to provoke others when dealing with the Horde is difficult enough.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb nods, "Exactly. They may not be allies with all survivors, even all former Starfleet vessels. But one thing that has certainly worked in our favour all this time is the power of the name” Keliaya@anncaris:"What about those Tholians that came through with you? They didn't seem very friendly.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb chuckles a little, "Indeed. As I said, not everyone is as cooperative. They can be tentative allies, or at least they could. I doubt they would look kindly on a Federation starship again now+ Rianni@crystyl:+ should that timeline continue” Keliaya@anncaris:"Why were they so upset with you? What happened between you?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb turns to face Kelly, in that Vulcan 'matter of fact' manner he replies, "We betrayed them" then turns back to his work Keliaya@anncaris tilts her head, "You betrayed /them/? Not the other way around? That's...not very characteristic given what you've said about your Captain so far.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb continues, facing his console as he works, "To quote the Captain 'we sacrificed everything to fulfill this mission” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "It was the only way to get back here, then?” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb: "Yes. The Captain did not do so lightly, but after years of analyzing the timeline and searching for a means; it was the only reliable option. I wish I could say it was the only hard + Rianni@crystyl:+ choice she has been forced to make. But one does not keep a ship in the fight all this time without doing so” Keliaya@anncaris:"I can only imagine. There has been some difficult moments on this journey, and the situation is far from as bad as it gets where you come from.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb, "Yes..." he smiles thoughtfully, "I grew on the stories of... Captain Keelah and your adventures during this time. It is heartwarming to see it for myself” Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "It must feel like a completely different time for you, with the galaxy you grew up in. Almost like us visiting Mia's holoprogram now.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb chuckles, "A little more larger than life actually. This is much more... personal" he turns, pointing down the corridor, "As a young boy, I remember playing with Relay right over there. It + Rianni@crystyl:+ still looked much more as it does now back then. I remember you telling us off because engineering was not a playground” Keliaya@anncaris turns to look down the corridor and chuckles, "Yes, it can be dangerous down here for a child. I'm glad you didn't accidentally touch a screen, or get someone tripped over.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb: "But you see my point; being here is - in many ways - like returning to my roots. I had almost forgotten how it looked and felt here” Keliaya@anncaris:"It's like returning to a childhood home, isn't it? Even though it's still the same ship, your Valley Forge must be very different.” Keliaya@anncaris:"Like ours is from the original ship, or maybe even more so.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb nods, "Exactly, yes. Right down to the long lost family" he half turns a faint smile Keliaya@anncaris:"I suppose a lot of us that you knew from childhood probably aren't around anymore. I can see why that would be quite an experience. There's not much of my family from my childhood left; the oldest - Keliaya@anncaris:- connections I still have were from my academic days.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb, "Regretfully; loss has become a fact of life for us now” Keliaya@anncaris:"Hopefully, with what you're doing here, you'll get to grow up in a galaxy where it's less of a fact of life.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb: "If I get to grow up at all" again in that matter-of-fact tone Keliaya@anncaris:"True. You aren't born yet, so this could change everything for you.” Keliaya@anncaris smiles slightly, "Well, whatever the case, thank you for coming back to help, and sacrificing so much to do it.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb smiles, "As my mother always said; the needs of the many, and all that. I have no regrets and if this is to be the limit of my existence, I am proud to sacrifice it in order to give my family+ Rianni@crystyl:+ the chance at a better life” Keliaya@anncaris:"I hope you get the opportunity to spend that better life with your family. You deserve as much for all you've been through.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb: "That is kind of you to say, thank you” Keliaya@anncaris:"I'll do my best to make sure the future is brighter. I'm afraid there's not much I can do to ensure you get born, though," she chuckles Rianni@crystyl | Sehb comments almost idly, "Just take good care of my mother. That will suffice” Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "That I can do. Anyways, I think this should be nearly identical to your system now.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb looks over things, "I concur. We will need to perform a series of stress tests at key junctions, but you are well on your way to being ready for this” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "I'll start assigning personnel to get the upgrades in place, and we should be able to run some of the tests as we go and the rest when the whole system is in place.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb: "Then perhaps... a little diversionary indulgence is called for. Call me selfish, but I do long to see more of your ship; more of the faces time has blurred in my memory” Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "Nothing wrong with being a little selfish once in a while. We all have our personal desires. The current shift should have their tasks now. Come, I'll show you around.” Rianni@crystyl | Sehb smiles, "Excellent. Lead on then" and gestures accordingly for her to lead the way” --- Rianni@crystyl FX | Some hours after the temporal anomaly, Keelah has summoned Rianni to her ready room to discuss the proposed plan. She and Yala approace Rianni@crystyl:"Do you believe she has been sufficiently convinced?” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "It's hard to say. I think she sees the logic behind the plan, but she still needs to weigh the risks.” Rianni@crystyl:"I'm worried Yala. This version of Keelah has not yet been shaped by the weight of impossible decisions” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala nods, "You and me both. And she doesn't have the luxury of foresight. To her, none of it has happened yet, and she might just take the risk to find some different way to stop the fleet.” Rianni@crystyl:"We may need to resort to plan B. Be ready" she says, chiming the doorbell Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "Come in” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah looks up, "Ladies, please" She gestures inviting them to sit Rianni@crystyl:"I'm not uaed to this side of the desk..." she chuckles, sitting dow NPC@annpc#557 | Yala chuckles as she takes a seat as well, "It's more normal for me.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah smiles faintly, "Of course. First off, how are the upgrades progressing?” Rianni@crystyl looks to Yala for the details NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "They're going well. There's a few hurdles given the differences between your current configuration and ours, but nothing we didn't expect so far.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah, "That is good news at least” Rianni@crystyl:"But what you have to say isn't…” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah leans back, "Honestly, I am still having difficulty accepting all of this. I know... the data backs up that you are who you claim to be, but..." she shakes her head Rianni@crystyl smiles a little, "But we are too far removed from your own vision of the future. I understand Captain, believe me; this was hardly the life I envisaged when signing onto your crew as a cadet” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "And you are almost not recognizable as that young lady” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "And I'm quite unlike my mother in many ways, despite us being exact genetic clones. We're all a product of our times.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods, "And that is my concern; I fear that your history has molded you into a battle hardened ship who will go to any extreme for a victory. I can see it in your eyes, Captain” Rianni@crystyl sighs softly, "It is true, of course; we have not survived the Horde invasion all this time by playing nicely” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "Naturally. So I can't help but feel that you are jumping prematurely into a potentially catastrophic assault without proper consideration of the consequences, or the alternatives” Rianni@crystyl scoffs, "Forgive me Keelah, but you have been pondering this few a hours. I have spent over a decade weighing this plan from every possible angle. There is no logic in the arrogant assumption that + Rianni@crystyl:+ you have the superior assessment in hand” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah scowls a little at the accusation, "Be that as it may. I can not in good conscious sign off on this wreckless plan of yours. After all, your very arrival here has already altered the + Rianni@crystyl:+ established timeline beyond measure. Your continued presence could be all that is needed to turn the tide in this predicted upcoming battle” Rianni@crystyl 's eyes narrow, "And you're willing to gamble the fate of Vue En - of the Federation - on that supposition?” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "You can't in good conscience not sign off on this plan, unless you want countless lives this fleet is about to take on your conscience.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah sighs, "It is a more considered approach given the known variables. All of the variables used to sway your argument are unknown to us, they are just your testimony” Rianni@crystyl glances to Yala with a slight nod that 'plan B' is a go Rianni@crystyl:"Forgive me Captain, but as you said - I will do what ever it takes to attain victory when that victory is the survival of the Federation. Even if that means breaking a promise to you" Rianni@crystyl taps her combadge as she stands, "Execute retrieval” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah follows her with a confused look, "What are y-..." eyes widening as she realizes she is being beamed out, along with Rianni and Yala... --- Rianni@crystyl FX | They reappear inside the same ready room, but on Rianni's VF, and they have switched positions Rianni@crystyl | Keelah looks around, "What... Rianni!” Rianni@crystyl:"Apologies Keelah, but you left me no choice. If you will not listen to reason, then you must see for yourself. as you said; everything is our testimony. This will let you see things for yourself” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah folds her arms, "I thought I had taught you better than this…” Rianni@crystyl chuckles at the pouting, moving around the desk and placing a hand on Keelah's shoulder to turn her and encourage her out, "You did. But as you will see, those lessons no longer apply” Rianni@crystyl | They step out onto a vaguely recognizable bridge. Mostly recovered from the Tholian battle, but still battleworn and heavily modified over the years NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "You can see why visiting your ship brings back memories.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah recognizes the Nausicaan from before as he calls out, "Captain...s on deck” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah begins to roam curiously, conscious of all the sideways glances she's getting from the crew who clearly recognize her to some degree Rianni@crystyl | Keelah traces a hand over the Captain's chair, "You got rid of my chair” Rianni@crystyl smiles, "We don't age as well as Vulcans. I needed better lumbar support" Rianni@crystyl | As they approach the turbolift, Keelah's gaze lingers on the dedication plaque, still hanging proud and true despite the heavy scorching on the wall around it. She seems impressed and encouraged + Rianni@crystyl:+ by the evidence that it is still cared for as a matter of pride NPC@annpc#557 | Yala smiles slightly, "Some things are still the same.” Rianni@crystyl steps into the turbolift, "observatory” Rianni@crystyl | As the lift begins moving, Keelah looks between the two, "I know 30 years is a long time in normal service, let alone wartime. But I am still surprised to see so many new faces on board” Rianni@crystyl:"There are some who remain from your crew still. I wish I could tell you that most have simply outgrown their roles as you know them and have moved on with their careers and lives. But..." shakes her+ Rianni@crystyl:+ head despondently, "We have lost many over the years” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala nods, "We didn't always have a choice in who we recruited.” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Some were survivors of other ships we rescued. Some civilians who enlisted. We've even freed unblooded thralls and re-educated them.” Rianni@crystyl:"It is true, a significant portion of this crew now have never even seen Starfleet Academy. It is more the stuff of fairytales in the eyes of our younger crew” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah considers the pair, "How long has it been since you have been to the Federation core; Sol, Vulcan, Andoria?” Rianni@crystyl:"About 12 years now since the region became too dangerous to approach” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah, "I see..." NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "The Horde take major population centres as soon as they can, and build upon them. Unlike the Borg, they don't just assimilate, but it's easier to take than build.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods, "Yes, we have seen just how ruthlessly efficient they are in their expansion” Rianni@crystyl half mutters, "Oh no you haven't…” Rianni@crystyl | Before Keelah can respond, the door opens and they step out into a corridor. As the rest of the ship so far, it's largely familiar to Keelah but also distinctly different with decades of untended + Rianni@crystyl:+ wear and battle damage ever present. A slightly less populated crew goes about their business, some of races Keelah doesn't even recognize Rianni@crystyl | Keelah, "I take it you have had to repel your share of boardings?” Rianni@crystyl:"And not just from the Horde. Many have succumbed to desperation like the pirates who recently raided your ship” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah perks a brow, "You were not even on board during those events” Rianni@crystyl smiles, "I've done my homework. Come" she turns into what Keelah knows as one of their many science labs Rianni@crystyl FX | Inside however, is completely alien to Keelah as the entire room seems to filled with a circular holographic display akin to a Krenim 'tangled timeline' simulation Rianni@crystyl | In the middle of it all stands a silver haired human in what looks like a black & white flag uniform. Alongside her are a borg drone and an elderly Krenim man Rianni@crystyl | The trio have their backs to the new arrivals as they work busily to analyze timeline changes even now. Rianni@crystyl ahems, "Admiral, we have visitors” Rianni@crystyl | The silver haired woman turns, forming a bright smile that almost seems inconsistent with her significant years as she approaches Keelah, "Captain Keelah!" she steps over, a pace more fitting the + Rianni@crystyl:+ age of her face, and tightly embraces Keelah's shoulders, "It is good to see you my dear” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah stands frozen with surprise for a moment, "Mischa...?" Rianni@crystyl:"The Admiral transferred her flag here around 20 years back to begin work on this mission” Rianni@crystyl | Mischa waves a dismissive hand, "Come now Captain, why so formal? This is a reunion of old friends after all!" she laughs, moving to take a seat on a nearby stool Rianni@crystyl | Mischa eyes Keelah, "Though not all so old, eh Keelah?” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah shakes her head lightly in disbelief, "The last I saw of you; you had transferred away as Sam's XO to take on your own command” Rianni@crystyl | Mischa leans back, clasping her hands on one knee, "Aah the Latenter, a fine ship she was too! In fact; Daurant and Root here came here with me from that crew. She's a fine ship, but she had other+ Rianni@crystyl:+ duties that no longer aligned with goals. So I handed her over to T'Lana - my former XO - and joined Captain Tierno here to undertake this recovery programme” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah perks a brow, "...'recovery programme'? Sounds like a very nice way of dusting over your brazen manipulation of the timeline. A clear breach of the temporal accords” Rianni@crystyl | Mischa: "Pfft, the temporal accords haven't even been written yet!" she leans in, a cold gaze on Keelah, "And they won't be if we don't pull this off” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "And even if they were, I doubt the Horde would care much if we broke or upheld it.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah feels herself shying away from the beady eyed stare of the old Admiral, even if it is Mischa, "So... what is this place exactly? I don't recognize any of these displays" Rianni@crystyl | Mischa leans back again with a smile, gesturing to the Krenim and Borg in the middle of the room NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant smiles back, "That's because you don't have one yet, Captain.” NPC@annpc#557 | Root: "This is a temporal observatory, where we simulate changes to the timeline and monitor effects, both predicted and actual.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah steps over, looking around, "A... temporal observatory?" shakes her head, "How do you even begin to compile such information?" NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant: "It's extremely delicate. There's a reason it took almost 20 years to take this mission from the planning stages to this current point." Rianni@crystyl | Keelah looks around in awe at the mass of incomprehensible data, "I can imagine this would take time…” Rianni@crystyl snorts at the inadvertent temporal pun/=. NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "As you can see Keelah, this isn't just a desperate last resort plan. We've taken account any potential consequences, run simulations far more complicated than anything you have now.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "And what about the changes to your baseline caused by your very arrival here. How does that factor into your calculations? Because your 20 years of work were based on a a starting point + Rianni@crystyl:+ which - logically speaking - could not have allowed for your presence” Rianni@crystyl | Mischa chuckles, "I told you she was good” Rianni@crystyl glances over, "I thought I told you that, Admiral…” Rianni@crystyl | Mischa waves a dismissive hand, "Pfft…” NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant: "To answer your question, Captain, there are always possibilities we cannot predict, but it is the same with your simulations, whether technical, tactical, psychological or otherwise. - NPC@annpc#557:- But we've taken into account every factor and are updating the simulations even now based on the effects of our arrival here.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah continues to study the displays in an effort to understand, "And what do your latest simulations show?” NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant: "Our arrival so far has only altered the timeline in minor ways. There may be some decisions you may make differently, but overall we still project a Horde takeover of the Alpha and - NPC@annpc#557:- Beta quadrants in approximately the same timeframe.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah glances around at the others, confused, "So your plan to destroy this Horde fleet won't work?” NPC@annpc#557 | Root: "Only if you do not cooperate. Taking into account the entirety of the changes we have come to execute, the likelihood of altering the outcome is 81.49%.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah looks up at the drone, "That is still hardly conclusive" turning to Rianni and MIscha, "You're gambling everything with almost a 20% chance of failure” Rianni@crystyl | Mischa, "Better than a 20% chance of success” NPC@annpc#557 | Root: "Or zero, if nothing is done.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "Still, it is hardly conclusive…” Rianni@crystyl:"Conclusive is a luxury we no longer have” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Look at it this way. Plot only the stellar consequences of destroying the Terminu system.” NPC@annpc#557 | Root nods and manipulates the holographic display. After a few seconds, he pauses. NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant: "I...don't think she knows how to read it.” NPC@annpc#557 | Root: "I will elaborate," he turns back to Keelah Rianni@crystyl | Keelah looks between the two with a perked brow NPC@annpc#557 | Root: "The destruction of the Terminu star will result in the formation of a Class 3 nebula. Without the gravitational forces of the star, Forojund's orbit of its star will be altered by - NPC@annpc#557:- .000014%, eventually resulting in its collision with the fifth planet in its system in roughly 2.9 billion years, long after it has ceased to be inhabitable. The orbit of Zihil will be - NPC@annpc#557:- altered by .000011% resulting in a surface temperature change of 1 degree Kelvin over several centuries. As a single living entity rather than an ecosystem composed of millions of species, Zihil will be able to adapt - NPC@annpc#557:- to the slight weather variation far more easily. Approximately 1.7 million years from now, the Terminu nebula will begin to form into a protostar of primarily- NPC@annpc#557 | Daurant: "She probably gets the point now. These are simple astrometric projections. You can run them for yourself and see similar results.” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "The point is, the destruction of the Terminu system has very minute overall impacts. That's what we're weighing against the 81% chance. This is all we- all /you/ have to lose.” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Terminu is already dead. There's no other worlds in the system projected to evolve into M-class. With the bombardment and mineral striping the planet itself has been through, it's - NPC@annpc#557:- unlikely to develop an intelligent species before the natural end of the star's lifespan. And you don't need simulations to see it's no longer a viable colony site.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah continues watching the complicated simulations, "I see. Well that certainly presents a convincing argument, but I can't even begin to comprehend where you would begin to draw all this data + Rianni@crystyl:+ from” Rianni@crystyl | Mischa chuckles, "Understandable, Keelah. Captain, why don't you continue to show our guest around. Perhaps something a little more close to home will be easier for her to balance the perspective” Rianni@crystyl nods, "Yes, Admiral. Keelah, come on; let's leave the Admiral's team to their work” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods and follows the others out Rianni@crystyl heads back to the turbolift, "There is someone on board who would never forgive me if I did not let them see you” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah perks a brow, "Why does that sound so ominous…” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala follows Rianni and Keelah into the lift as well Rianni@crystyl waits for the turbolift to start moving, "I won't lie to you Keelah; this may be... difficult for you” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah gives Rianni a silent glance Rianni@crystyl moving through more of the ship, Keelah gets to see an increasing degree of modification. Specifically with integrated Borg tech and even a strong Nuhar element, including an increased number of + Rianni@crystyl:+ drones seeming to work around the ship to supplement the reduced crew Rianni@crystyl walks into one of the medical bays, "Dr. Meel?" she looks around Rianni@crystyl | Keelah looks up and around, muttering, "Kazra?” Rianni@crystyl | A male trill steps out from the office, "Hello Captain, what can I do for you to-" he looks to Keelah, "Captain Se'Lai!” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah tilts her head a little, "Dr. Meel I presume?” Rianni@crystyl | The trill nods, "Kazra was my previous host" Rianni@crystyl:"Doctor, may we see her?” NPC@annpc#557 | The Trill nods, "This way.” Rianni@crystyl guides Keelah with a hand on her shoulder again as they step through to a long term care unit Rianni@crystyl | Inside is a single isolated bed with full biomonitors running all around it Rianni@crystyl | With an increasing sense of trepidation, Keelah steps over to the bed, seeing the figure within come into view; a female Vulcan visibly not much older than Keelah herself. She appears to be + Rianni@crystyl:+ sleeping, and drawing closer, it is clear that she is heavily scarred on one side of her face and seems to be blinded on that side Rianni@crystyl | Keelah clasps a hand over her mouth, shaking her head, "P- Pia...?" she collapses to her knees at the side of the bed, reaching up to squeeze TP's hand while not even able to look up through the + Rianni@crystyl:+ flood of emotions NPC@annpc#557 | Yala and the Trill doctor stands and watches quietly, giving Keelah her time. Rianni@crystyl steps closer after a moment, offering a reassuring hand on Keelah's shoulder Rianni@crystyl | Keelah rises and turns sharply to Rianni, spinning around with her hand raised and landing a powerful slap across the Captain's face, "WHY?!" she demanded through the tears Rianni@crystyl let's the hit land, taking it like she felt it was deserved, "I know it is difficult Keelah, and I did not want to do this to you. But she is one of my oldest and dearest friends and she would not + Rianni@crystyl:+ forgive me if I didn't bring you to see her Rianni@crystyl | Keelah turns away angrily and refocuses on TP. Hovering closer now as she squeezes the girls (who is now older than her mother!) hand, and gently stroked her hair on the side of her head which + Rianni@crystyl:+ still had any, "What happened...?" she asked almost in a whisper NPC@annpc#557 | Yala nods, "She was practically a sister to me. It was...almost four years ago. The leaders of the Sixteen Houses met for the first time in a long time. We tried to warn them against it, and - NPC@annpc#557:- our fears proved right. There was a Horde spy in their midst and the Horde sprung on them as soon as they gathered. There were...too many Horde ships. We sustained major damage and almost lost - NPC@annpc#557:- the ship. Chief T'Pia evacuated everyone in Engineering, but by the time I got to her..." Yala lowers her head, closing her eyes and likely fighting back tears” NPC@annpc#557 | The Trill continued where she left off, "Severe plasma burns, radiation exposure, spinal damage...I'll spare you all the details, but it was too severe for a full recovery.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah looks to the Trill, "Spinal damage... four years? You mean she's stuck here like this?” NPC@annpc#557 | The Trill gives a solemn nod, "I wish there was something we could do for her, but even if we had a full inventory of medical supplies and equipment in perfect condition, there's still no - NPC@annpc#557:- hope of complete recovery.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah subconsciously tightens her grip on TP's hand as she listens Rianni@crystyl | TP stirs and looks around, "Captain...?” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah gasps lightly and perches closer, "No Pia. Not that Captain anyway” Rianni@crystyl | TP turns to Keelah, eyes widening, "M... mother?" she whimpers, raising a shaky hand to reach for her as she tears up Rianni@crystyl | Keelah leans over and hugs her gently, "I'm here Pia. I'm here” Rianni@crystyl | The pair hold a long and emotional embrace Rianni@crystyl looks to the others sidenodding to step outside and leave them to their moment NPC@annpc#557 | Yala and the Trill promptly turns and steps out. Rianni@crystyl:"I really wish I knew if that was the right thing to do or not..." she comments, idly rubbing her still red cheek NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "As hard as it is for her, we have to open her eyes to what she has to lose.” Rianni@crystyl:"I know. But still, this is /Keelah/ we're talking about. I know how she struggles with her emotions and putting her through this pain seems... dirty” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "It's better for her to have a taste of it now, so she can prevent it from happening later. It's either this for her, or make the versions of us in this universe go through the same - NPC@annpc#557:- thing we did. I just hope it's enough to change her mind. If this isn't...I don't know what is.” Rianni@crystyl nods, looking over as Keelah eyes red but she seems in control of herself Rianni@crystyl | Keelah approaches Rianni, "I... apologize for my outburst before. It was... a shock to the system” Rianni@crystyl smiles faintly, "It is I who owes you an apology for walking you into that shock” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah, "You also kept things from me. We agreed initially that you would not bring anyone to my ship who was close to anyone there” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "I think we agreed not to bring anyone who was /already/ there.” Rianni@crystyl:"Indeed. And we remained true to that” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah scowls at the technicality, "You still should have told me about my grandson” Rianni@crystyl smiles a little, "Would you have believed me had I introduced him as such?” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah sighs, "Probably not..." and looks to the Trill again almost eager to change the subject, "So you are Kazra's successor both in profession and host lineage? Isn't that against Trill rules?” NPC@annpc#557 | Trill: "It would be if there was still a Symbiosis Commission to enforce these rules. It was the best role for me to serve, as doctors with the Meel symbiont's amount of knowledge and - NPC@annpc#557:- experience is in rather short supply these days.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods after a moment, "I suppose that makes sense. Still, it is comforting to see a familiar face, even if it is hidden under a different skin. Sickbay just wouldn't be the same with a Meel + Rianni@crystyl:+ in charge” NPC@annpc#557 | The Trill smiles slightly, "Indeed it wouldn't. I'm sorry there wasn't more I could've done for Pia.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "I know you've done all you can for her. She is... content, at peace with her fate” Rianni@crystyl smiles, "I knew she would welcome a visit from you. Come, we should not take any more of the Doctor's time” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala nods and follows Rianni out. Rianni@crystyl | They proceed back to the turbolift. Keelah now a lot quieter Rianni@crystyl | They continue in silence to the turbolift. When the door opens there is an audible 'eep!' as the familiar sigh of Mia greets them. Still the same as Keelah knows her to look, she beams excitedly + Rianni@crystyl:+ and bounds forward, leaping at Keelah with a big hug, "Capitaine Keelah!” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah gasps and chuckles, "Hello Mia” Rianni@crystyl smiles, "See Keelah, some things never change” NPC@annpc#557 smiles at the sight as well, "I knew you wouldn't miss this visit, Mia.” Rianni@crystyl | Mia: "We maaaay have been monitoring transporter activity for your return..." she laughs Rianni@crystyl | Keelah notices that Mia is alone, no Miadrone Rianni@crystyl | Mia seems to pick up on her expression and smiles, placing a hand on her own chest, "We are one now, mon Capitaine!” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah smiles, "So you did progress your evolution in the end after all. Good for you Mia” Rianni@crystyl:"Since T'Pia's accident, Mia has done a fine job looking after things in engineering for us. Coordinating the drones to supplement ship systems has been a lifesaver for us on more than one occassion” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "And she's as great a teacher as she's ever been, for the times when we have new blood to the crew.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah turns a smile to Mia, "It is warming to see you doing well Mia, and looking after the crew here” Rianni@crystyl | Mia beams proudly, "It is our duty and privilege to continue your legacy!” Rianni@crystyl gives Mia a look Rianni@crystyl | Mia dips her head, "Anyway, please excuse us for duty calls! It was lovely to see you again Capitaine Keelah. We do hope you'll come say hello again soon!" she gives a chirpy wave as she heads off Rianni@crystyl steps into the turbolift, "Bridge” Rianni@crystyl | The group returns to the ready room, "Well Captain, I trust you have found this little excursion to be... educational” Rianni@crystyl steps over to a cupboard beside the offline replicator and returns with a bottle of Orion wine and three glasses which she pours out and distributes NPC@annpc#557 | Yala takes her glass with a nod of thanks to Rianni. Rianni@crystyl | Keelah takes the glass, "That is one way of putting it" Rianni@crystyl sips, "I must say Captain, I am quite surprised at your restraint” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah, "Oh?” Rianni@crystyl nods, "Seeing all the change here. Seeing my in your place. Yet you have resisted enquiring after your own fate Rianni@crystyl | Keelah sips, "The logical conclusion would be that I am dead already by your time” Rianni@crystyl:"I, well... yes. Of course, that is the logical conclusion" she smiles a little, "So I must ask Captain…” Rianni@crystyl Keelah raises a hand, "Don't worry. I see the world through your eyes now. I know what you have been through; felt your loss and... your hope. I agree with your proposal” Rianni@crystyl:"I see, but..." realizes and nods, knowingly, "Of course... Pia” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods, "She gave me her thoughts” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala nods and smiles, "So, we'll proceed as planned?” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "Yes, as soon as the upgrades are complete we will proceed to Terminu with haste. QanwI' is still on station there monitoring so will be in position to assist” Rianni@crystyl:"It is a relief to hear you say that, Keelah. We will make sure to have both ships ready” Rianni@crystyl:"But for now, how about we get you back to your own ready room" she smiles, tapping her combadge again to call for return transport. --- Keelah@crystyl FX | After completing their upgrades, the Valley Forge's are making their final preparations to get underway. Keelah@crystyl exits the turbolift onto the bridge, "Well, that's everyone back on their right ship again. How are the preparations going?” Keliaya@anncaris turns to Keelah from her console, "The power distribution nodes should be ready to handle the deflector pulses now.” Keelah@crystyl wanders over to Kelly's station to see, "Do you believe this will work?” Keliaya@anncaris:"The pulses, or the plan in general?” Keelah@crystyl chuckles, "Both, I suppose” Keliaya@anncaris:"Simulations and stress tests look promising for the pulses, but it'll still be a drain on our power systems. I've made sure that we'll have enough power to get us out of the supernova's range, but - Keliaya@anncaris:- we won't be able to keep any tactical systems online. If this works the same way it did last time though, we shouldn't need weapons or our armour generators.” Keelah@crystyl:"Do I need to be concerned about all the 'buts' and 'shoulds' in that statement…” Keliaya@anncaris:"There's always room for uncertainty. The biggest risk we have is if we don't end up with enough power to affect the whole fleet with the pulses, or if some of them move out of range somehow. If we - Keliaya@anncaris:- can stick to the plan, we'll be fine and the plan will work as well. If something goes wrong, these pulses are useful, but they're also going to be the only weapon we have. We simply don't have - Keliaya@anncaris:- the power to keep anything else online.” Keelah@crystyl:"So it's all or nothing..." she sighs, beginning to regret taking on such a risk, "... What of the other Valley Forge?” Keliaya@anncaris:"They're definitely not going to be able to assist with the deflector pulses, but the regeneration seems to have done a good job of restoring the ship. They're not in perfect condition, but I don't - Keliaya@anncaris:- think they have been for a while. They look as ready as they'll ever be, though." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "Captain, the other Valley Forge is hailing us.” Keelah@crystyl turns, "They must be ready to depart. On screen" she moves over to take a seat Keliaya@anncaris | Eva nods and puts it onscreen, with Kelly turning to observe. Keelah@crystyl | Rianni appears, "Well Captain, we're just about set over here. Are you prepared?” Keelah@crystyl nods, "We are ready to depart when you are” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni nods in acknowledgement to someone off screen before looking back, "Excellent. We have the warhead fully coated with kemocite and loaded to go" Keliaya@anncaris turns back to her console for a moment before announcing, "We have incoming in our cargo holds.” Keelah@crystyl looks back to Kelly, then turns a questioning look to the screen, "Captain...?” Keliaya@anncaris glances curiously to the screen as well before asking her teams to check what the cargo is. Keelah@crystyl | Rianni smiles, "What? It is only logical to ensure none of it goes to waste. And before you say anything; don't worry! There is nothing included which could contaminate the timeline or compromise + Keelah@crystyl +things for you" Keelah@crystyl perks a brow, "Actually, I was thinking more along the lines of what you are planning, if you're emptying your reserves onto us…” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni smiles: "Come now, Captain. We both know my ship and crew do not belong here. This was always a one-way mission for us” Keliaya@anncaris looks back to Keelah, "Looks to primarily be standard supplies. Some Starfleet equipment and weapons, but nothing more advanced than what we have.” Keelah@crystyl glances back with a nod. Keelah@crystyl:"I don't accept that, Captain. And I do not want you entering battle where you are predisposed to not surviving. There has to be a way, what about that nice little retirement you told me about?” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni chuckles, "Ok, you got me. Much as we live for that dream, we understand our odds of survival. If it makes you feel any better, consider yourselves simply as 'caretakers' for our perishable Keelah@crystyl:+ until the battle is over. Yes?” Keelah@crystyl eyerolls at the technicality, "Fine. But I expect you to be joining us in celebrations after. No excuses" Keliaya@anncaris:"Captain, the last transport has a number of Nuhar signatures. Their configurations are different from anything we've seen so far.” Keelah@crystyl looks over again and back to Rianni, "What is this now?” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni: "Trust me, they will prove invaluable to you. They are programmed to wipe their memories after the warhead detonation. So they will be blank slates for your Mia and Relay to put to use” Keelah@crystyl groans, "Just looking after them too, no doubt…” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni smiles, "Exactly! Now, if there is nothing further then we should rendezvous with the QanwI'” Keelah@crystyl nods, "We'll see you there, Captain" Lets the comm close before continuing, "Helm; take us out” Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher nods back and taps his console, "Aye Captain, taking us out." Keelah@crystyl FX | The two Valley Forge's warp out and make their final approach to Terminu Keelah@crystyl stands, "Kelly, Vrolmacht; with me. I want to see exactly what is going on with the drones they sent over here” Keelah@crystyl looks to Eva as she passes, "Have Mia and Relay join us in the starboard hangar” Keliaya@anncaris nods and follows over. Keliaya@anncaris | Eva nods as well and notifies the two while everyone else enters the lift. Keelah@crystyl & Co. arrive at the hangar, Mia and Relay already inside and investigating the new arrival. Keelah@crystyl FX | There is a sizeable contingent of smaller drones like Relay, all hovering in formation together like a military squadron awaiting inspection. Just very geometrically perfect in their layout. Keelah@crystyl FX | Behind them, nearer the bay door, is a long row of larger constructs Keliaya@anncaris looks over curiously at the larger constructs, "Are those...something in between a drone and a full starship construct?” Keelah@crystyl:"It would appear so…” Keliaya@anncaris takes out a tricorder and steps over to give them a scan while looking to Mia and Relay, "What do you think?” Keelah@crystyl | Mia beams, "They are incredible, non?” Keliaya@anncaris nods and smiles, "They are. I wonder if the drones designed them, or if the other crew did. We've never seen designs like these with the Nuhar before.” Keelah@crystyl | Mia: "Relay informs us that they are a joint evolution, and the first to occur since the fall of the Nuhar! These are simpler constructs programmed with an evolution of the Iconion probe AI we + Keelah@crystyl:+recently put to use with the QanwI'. They were designed to be carried by a starship to allow the Nuhar more wide support, not just where their main constructs can go” Keliaya@anncaris:"Amazing...and a great idea. I have a feeling you from their future probably had something to do with it," she smiles” Keelah@crystyl | Mia smiles, "We suspect so also, but they are under orders not to tell us!” Keliaya@anncaris chuckles, "Of course they would be. So the small ones, they're just like Relay, or are they evolved as well?” Keelah@crystyl | Mia: "We believe they are essentially the same as Relay. Like those we left at the Waystation. These are simply programmed to obey us and support maintenance to the ship” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "If they're here to stay, we could use more drones on the ship. Especially if something happens like when all of us get knocked unconscious again…” Keelah@crystyl:"I still don't want them having any kind of free reign until we know exactly what they're programmed for. We can not become complacent and put too much on them” Keelah@crystyl | Mia: "Relay informs us that they are standard Nuhar drones like those we used to operate the ship previously. But as you say mon Capitaine; we must be certain and at least wait to see how their + Keelah@crystyl:+ reset affects them” Keliaya@anncaris:"After that happens, check them out closely, make sure they're not carrying any hidden commands or anything in their code.” Keelah@crystyl nods, looking back to the larger constructs, "So these are more than drones, but not fully self-aware like the constructs we know. More of a big drone, or a small construct?” Keelah@crystyl | Mia chuckles, "A big drone, given their limited capacity for self control. However, their ability to interpret instructions and react in combat situations is more on par with them being small + Keelah@crystyl:+ constructs!” Keelah@crystyl:"...” Keelah@crystyl:"Thanks for clearing that up, Mia" Keliaya@anncaris laughs slightly, "So they're more like...Nuhar fighters?” Keelah@crystyl | Mia, "Oui! That is why they are so hard to classify against that we already know, because they are something entirely new!” Keelah@crystyl:"LT Baelai is going to have a field day with this lot…” Keelah@crystyl:"Still, I can't say I'm not relieved to have a proper fighting force in this hangar instead of sending our research shuttles into combat so often” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "And as useful as the Iconian probes are, they're not really fighters either. I have a feeling these evolved constructs have much better capability and programming”. Keelah@crystyl:"Commander Vrolmacht; work with LT Baelai to assess the constructs and evaluate them ahead of deployment” Keliaya@anncaris:"I think their programming might be a little more complicated to work into a holodeck simulation...but I can give it a try.” Keelah@crystyl:"Do what you can. Perhaps Relay can help communicate directly so there will be no requirement for the holodeck” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "That's a good idea. We'll see what Relay can do." Keliaya@anncaris FX | The comm in the area sounds, <C - Eva> "Captain, Commander. We're approaching the Terminu system.” Keelah@crystyl:"See what you can do with our new arrivals. I'll be on the bridge" she turns, tapping an intercom panel on her way, "Bridge, Se'Lai. I'm on my way" Keelah@crystyl steps onto the bridge, making for her seat. Keliaya@anncaris heads back for her console and Vrolmacht retakes the tactical station as well. Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher: "Arriving in four and a half minutes, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"Open a channel to the QanwI'” Keliaya@anncaris | Eva nods, tapping her console, "Channel open.” Keelah@crystyl turns to the front, "Captain Vix. What's the latest from Terminu?” Keelah@crystyl | Lexi: "No change, Keelah. Far from what I could say for you however. Tell me, are these sensor readings I'm seeing accurate? There's... two of you?” Keelah@crystyl smiles, "There is indeed” Keelah@crystyl | Lexi: "So what... you're going to assault a 2000-strong Horde stronghold with 3 ships? Damn, and they call me crazy!” Keelah@crystyl:"Suffice to say, Captain Vix; we have a plan. And much as I know you will not like it; I need you to hold back from it” Keelah@crystyl | Lexi scowls, leaning forward, "That'd better be the Vulcan concept of a joke..." Keelah@crystyl shakes her head, "To engage the enemy ships with the QanwI' might jeapordise the larger plan. I need you on standby to herd any stragglers back to the planet” Keelah@crystyl | Lexi slowly leans back, drumming her fingertips on the arm of her chair, "This had better be good, Keelah. We're standing by as instructed" she barks over her shoulder in Klingon and the comm shuts Keelah@crystyl:"Alright, let's do this. Red alert - standby on deflector controls” Keliaya@anncaris:"Allocating power to the deflectors. Levels look good so far based on what we expect the power consumption will be from the simulations." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "The...other Valley Forge is moving into position by Terminu's star.” Keelah@crystyl:"Full power to shields, take us out of warp as close to the planet as you safely can” Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher nods, "Aye Captain. Exiting warp in 10..." Keliaya@anncaris FX | The VF drops out of warp with Terminu ahead in the distance. The viewscreen magnifies to show the planet, and as expected from the scans, it is nearly unrecognizable, with large blotches of - Keliaya@anncaris:- glows that seem much larger than the lights of the small refugee settlements barely visible from orbit. In their place now are lakes of lava, with smaller glowing lines criss-crossing the surface, Keliaya@anncaris:- much of which is obscured by a thick dark layer of smoke. The Horde fleet orbits around the planet, their movement and small size at current levels of magnification making them look like an - Keliaya@anncaris:- insect swarm Keelah@crystyl:"Tactical analysis” Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "Reading 1935 vessels, as before. No discernable formation at the moment.” Keelah@crystyl:"Calculate a central deployment position. Prioritize impact radius to encompass the fleet” Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht nods, working on his console before bringing up a display of the calculated deployment Keelah@crystyl:"Is the whole fleet within range?" Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "The majority of the ships are, but there are nine around other parts of the planet extracting resources.” Keelah@crystyl:"Alright, helm; plot a concentric approach to bring us around a single orbit through those nine. We'll try and draw them in with us” Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher nods, "Course plotted and ready to go, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"Take us in. Stand by weapons; we'll need to make sure to get their attention” Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "Weapons standing by.” Keliaya@anncaris:"We don't want to use up too much power, we still need enough in reserve to fire the pulse and then get out.” Keelah@crystyl:"Just a few pot shots to get their attention as we pass” Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "Aye Captain.” Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher: "Coming into range soon…” Keelah@crystyl watches intently Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "Weapons locked on and target is in range.” Keelah@crystyl “Maintain orbital course and fire - forward cannons only as we strafe them” Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht nods and the Valley Forge opens fire on the first one, then the next, getting the attention of the Horde ships extracting resources. Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "They are following us." The bridge shakes slightly. "And returning fire. Shields holding at 90%.” Keliaya@anncaris | On the viewscreen, several ships from the huge insect swarm of a fleet suddenly splits off towards them as well... Keelah@crystyl:"Maintain course. Eva, update Tierno's ship on our eta to the detonation point” Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "It appears we've attracted the attention of the main fleet as well…” Keelah@crystyl:"Helm, hold your course. pass straight through them - they should come about and pursue” Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher nods, "Holding course.” Keliaya@anncaris | Eva meanwhile taps her console and sends the update Keliaya@anncaris | The bridge shakes again as a number of ships converge on the Valley Forge, opening fire as the ship moves towards them... Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "Shields dropping. 80%. 75.” Keelah@crystyl:"Just get us there. We don't need to hold out for a sustained conflict” Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher: "Almost through the attacking ships…” Keliaya@anncaris FX | The Valley Forge flies right into the advancing Horde ships, which split to two sides as the VF passes straight through before turning to pursue Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher: "That was close!” Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "I am surprised they did not try to ram us. That may be a good sign. They do not see us as enough of a threat to be worth sacrificing a ship to destroy.” Keelah@crystyl:"Let's not give them any ideas, shall we” Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher: "Good thing they can't read our minds. They're in pursuit now, but we're almost in position…” Keliaya@anncaris | The bridge shakes a bit more as Vrolmacht announces, "Shields at 45%.” Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher: "Almost there…” Keelah@crystyl:"Standby to shunt all available power to the deflector" Keliaya@anncaris nods, "Ready to shunt power as soon as we're in position, Captain!” Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "The other Valley Forge is hailing us.” Keelah@crystyl:"On screen" She looks up to see Rianni's image Keelah@crystyl | Rianni: "It is time Captain. I just wanted to say that has been our honour to fly one more mission with you” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni's senior staff appear around her Keelah@crystyl:"The honour has been hours, Captain. For what it is worth; I am proud of the officer you have become” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni smiles and dips her head as Sehb steps forwards, offering a Vulcan salute, "Live long and prosper, Captain Keelah” Keelah@crystyl returns the salute with a sad smile, "I plan to" Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher: "We're in position!” Keelah@crystyl:"All stop. Fire the pulse” Keelah@crystyl | On screen, Rianni's crew jump into action and launch the deadly warhead into the star Keliaya@anncaris shunts the power and fires the pulse... Keelah@crystyl FX | A wave of energy emits from the Valley Forge, propelled outwards from it's numerous ablative armour generators and encompassing the thousands of ships honing in on them as well as Keelah@crystyl:+ the near side of the planet. The ships all begin to drift like someone flipped a switch... Keelah@crystyl | There is a distant flash as the warhead impacts the star and begins the chain reaction. On screen Rianni's crew can be seen shielding their eyes momentarily Keelah@crystyl | Rianni stands and salutes her viewscreen, "The future belongs to you now. Take care of it for me” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni closes her eyes as the view grows intensely bright before cutting out. It shifts to an exterior where the breach of the ship's core is almost dwarfed, though still visible against the Keelah@crystyl:+ rapidly expanding wall of destructive supernov Keelah@crystyl looks around at the drained sight of her own bridge, lights and monitors flickering, "Helm, now would be a good time to be leaving” Keliaya@anncaris looks down solemnly for a moment before quickly turning back to her station, "Transferring all available power to engines.” Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher similarly focuses back on his console, turning the Valley Forge around, "I can only get us low impulse. We won't make it out of the blast radius at this speed, I need more power!” Keelah@crystyl FX | There is a flash on screen as the QanwI' drops in on top of them, locking a tractor beam as it clearly tries to help drag the VF out of the blast zone Keliaya@anncaris:"It never goes according to simulation, does it…” Keelah@crystyl | Lexi appears on the screen, "You are officially crazy enough to have at my finest bloodwine reserves Captain! Now give it all that space whale of yours can give. We'll do the same!” Keliaya@anncaris:"Everyone hold on to something. I'll /actually/ give us all we have this time!” Keelah@crystyl taps her intercom panel, "All hands, brace for turbulence. DC crews at the ready” Keliaya@anncaris FX | The lights almost completely go out save for the consoles in use, leaving the bridge in near total darkness. They feel the artificial gravity cutting off, leaving them all starting to float... Keliaya@anncaris | Kelly: "More power's coming in to you now, Fisher!” Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher: "Thank you, Commander!" He takes the Valley Forge moving as fast as he can... Keelah@crystyl hooks an arm around her armrest as she watches helplessly Keelah@crystyl FX | As the forward wave of the supernova impacts the planet behind them, VF's nacelles flare up with the surge of energy and it accelerates away with the QanwI' dragging it up to low warp as the Keelah@crystyl:+ rear view flares up like a fireworks display from thousands of simultaneous core breaches Keliaya@anncaris | Fisher: "We made it! Did we get all the Horde ships?” Keliaya@anncaris:"I'm spreading all the power we have at the moment to critical systems. Life support is running, gravity should be back in a few seconds, so everyone brace…” Keliaya@anncaris | True to her word, the artificial gravity soon kicks back in Keliaya@anncaris:"We're getting more power from the cores, but I don't want to overstress them at the moment. I can get us comms with the QanwI', their sensors should be online.” Keliaya@anncaris:"It might be a few minutes before I can bring ours back.” Keelah@crystyl lands unceremoniously back in her seat, quickly straightening herself out, "Damage report; all decks. And get me that channel to the QanwI'” Keliaya@anncaris checks her readings, "Minor damage- a few burst EPS relays, a little overheating in the deflector systems and a coolant overload in main engineering. No casualty reports yet, just some - Keliaya@anncaris:- burns and bruises. Comms should be coming back online now.” Keliaya@anncaris | Eva nods, "We have comms. Patching in the QanwI'.” Keelah@crystyl | A static filled image slowly gives way to that of Lexi's bridge Keelah@crystyl | Lexi: "Keelah? Captain Keelah are you there?” Keelah@crystyl smiles, "We are in one piece, Lexi. Please; we need a sensor scan of the system, we must ensure no Horde vessels escaped" Keelah@crystyl | Lexi nods, "We've been monitoring constantly since we saw what you were up to. No other warp signatures in the area. Not the other 'you' either…” Keelah@crystyl nods, "A predicted casualty. Please, maintain a secure perimeter on our position. We will need some time to recover back to full strength before moving off” Keelah@crystyl | Lexi smiles and nods, "We've got your back, Captain. See to your warriors. Qapl'a!” Keelah@crystyl stands after the comm closes and moves to Kelly's side, "How long do you need?” Keliaya@anncaris:"An hour before we're producing enough power to return the distribution to normal levels, but I can prioritize certain systems and get us moving sooner.” Keelah@crystyl shakes her head, "Prioritize critical systems first. We'll hold position here as long as you need” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "I'll get the Forge back up and running again as soon as I can.” Keelah@crystyl:"Vrolmacht, you have the bridge" she heads off to the turbolift. Those close to Keelah know by now that after any intense battle like that, her first order of business is to see TP --- Keelah@crystyl relaxes back in her quarters, letting the crew do their jobs in restoring VF, while enjoying some quality time with T'Pia Keliaya@anncaris | TP: "So I heard Kelly and the visitors have been making some more upgrades to the ship. Can I go and see sometime?” Keelah@crystyl:"Would it make any difference if I said no?" she chuckles Keliaya@anncaris | TP giggles, "Probably not…” Keelah@crystyl:"Just do me a favor sweetheart, and don't get too close to those new drones we have on board until we have a proper handle on them” Keelah@crystyl:"I could never forgive myself if something ever happened to you…” Keelah@crystyl seems distinctly more concerned than usual with such comments Keliaya@anncaris | TP nods, "Okay. Do you think these drones could be dangerous?” Keelah@crystyl:"Oh I doubt it, at least not in any intended sense. Our late allies would not have done that to us. But with this reset of their programming we can't be too careful” Keliaya@anncaris | TP: "I'll keep my distance. They're Nuhar ones, right?” Keelah@crystyl smiles, "Is there anything on this ship that you don't know?” Keliaya@anncaris | TP laughs, "Not if Mia's involved with them!” Keliaya@anncaris | TP: "You weren't this worried when we had Nuhar drones on board last time, though…” Keelah@crystyl:"It is mother's prerogative to worry for her precious daughter" Keliaya@anncaris | TP: "I'll just check out the new upgrades for now. So, what- " TP pauses as she turns back to look out the window Keliaya@anncaris | TP: "Mum, look, something's decloaking!” Keelah@crystyl perks a brow, turning to look out of the window and mostly expecting to see the QanwI' appearing Keliaya@anncaris | A ship does indeed appear outside the window, but instead of the QanwI', they see the distinct shape of the Lander 1 as it becomes visible. NPC@annpc#557 | Inside the meeting room, the VF senior officers are gathered with Commander Kayan, Vice Commander Vector and Senior Fixer Ankti of the Lander 1. Keelah@crystyl joins them shortly later, having been promptly summoned after witnessing the arrival NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan nods to Keelah as she arrives, "Captain Se'lai. We came here to investigate after the Coalition detected the supernova in the Terminu system. I take it given your proximity, you - NPC@annpc#557:- know what happened, if you didn't have something to do with it”. Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, in short; we caused it” NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan: "We've also seen no trace of the Horde fleet. Am I right in supposing that the supernova wiped them out?” Keelah@crystyl nods, "That is why we did it. It was the only way to effectively remove that fleet from the equation” NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan nods, "A drastic measure, but for a drastic situation. I didn't know your ship was capable of pulling off such a feat, though.” Keelah@crystyl:"Ordinarily it is not. We came into possession of some trilithium ordnance during our mission. Trilithium is capable of triggering such a reaction, and we had it laced with kemocite to exaggerate the+ Keelah@crystyl:+ effect” NPC@annpc#557 | Vector nods, "That is scientifically sound, Commander.” NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan: "What about the Horde? How did you get all of them while still managing to escape the supernova's reach yourselves?” Keelah@crystyl:"It is... a little far fetched. But suffice to say that we had help from a trusted ally who sacrified themselves to trigger the nova. As for containing the Horde fleet; you may be familiar with our + Keelah@crystyl:+ previous encounters where we applied the disruptive effect of our inhibitor implants to a radial burst from the ship's main deflector?” NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan nods, "We saw it during the Battle of the Holy City. You stunned the fleet with the burst and then your allies triggered the nova and destroyed them along with the system?” Keelah@crystyl:"In a nutshell, yes. We had to rig our armour generators to emit a sufficiently large pulse to encompass the whole fleet. Hence our present condition as it took - quite literally - everything we had Keelah@crystyl:+ in order to escape the blast ourselves” NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan: "An impressive feat nonetheless, taking down so many ships with so few. You're sure you got all of them?” Keelah@crystyl:"QanwI' has been patrolling since the blast and no warp signatures have been detected in the area” NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan: "That's good news. We cut our retreat a little too close and haven't been able to deposit the last group of recovered thralls at the Waystation for fear of leading the Horde to it. Now - NPC@annpc#557:- should be able to regroup and leave the refugees somewhere safe, at least for the time being.” Keelah@crystyl:"For the time being is perhaps more pertinent than you realise” NPC@annpc#557 | Vector: "According to the information given by the Guardians, we should fully expect the Horde to assemble another offensive force and attack again.” Keelah@crystyl:"We have reason to believe that the fleet destroyed at Terminu was but the vanguard for a more prominent force inbound from elsewhere” NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan: "Elsewhere? The Guardians never mentioned that. Unless they don't know either…” Keelah@crystyl:"They may not know yet. We have very little to go on ourselves..." she taps to display the limited data shared from the other VF NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan leans forward to examine the data, "From your mystery allies?” Keelah@crystyl nods NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan: "We'll converge on the Waystation first. Most of our ships have to, we've got too many refugees we need to offload. You can join us there as soon as you're able, and we can - NPC@annpc#557:- look over this data and decide the next course of action together. Do you need help getting on the way?” Keelah@crystyl smiles, shaking her head, "We're down, but not out, thank you. We will take the time to get ourselves back up to speed and join you there afterwards. We have much to do if we are to capitalize on Keelah@crystyl:+ this change and save Vue En” NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan: "Vue En, you think that's the ultimate target of the Horde?” Keelah@crystyl:"It's the next biggest population centre in this region, and a direct path for the fleet we destroyed here. Terminu was never more than a layover for them; a beachhead on the way to Vue En” NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan nods, "That makes sense. I'll send what you've learned ahead to the Coalition. We'll meet you at the Waystation and plan ahead there with the rest of the Coalition leadership.” Keelah@crystyl:"I appreciate it. We should also find out if the Guardians have had word from the Rangers we left tending the Iconian facility. It is my hope that they have at least been able to extract a good + Keelah@crystyl:+ number of Iconian assets, assuming they have had to vacate already” NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan nods, "Guardian-Commander Skormir should be in contact with the Rangers, and he'll be at the Waystation too.” Keelah@crystyl:"Excellent. I am eager to catch up with the coalition's efforts since we departed” NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan: "I'm sure many of us are looking forward to seeing all you've learned. We'll meet you at the Waystation then, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl stands, "We'll see you there Commander" NPC@annpc#557 | Kayan and her officers stand and head out. --- NPC@annpc#557 FX | The scene fades...but then there is a shot of a transporter pad. A transporter beam appears atop it, the figure soon materializing as Yala from the alternate future in uniform. NPC@annpc#557 | Yala looks around confused as the camera pans out to reveal a man. The camera only shows him from behind and all that is visible of him is that he has dark, age-worn skin, silvery hair and - NPC@annpc#557:- round ears. He appears clad in a mostly black uniform with a purple stripe at a similar level to the department stripe on modern Starfleet uniforms, and blue shoulders above that. No badge or - NPC@annpc#557:- rank pips are visible from the angle, which mostly focuses on the front of Yala. NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Where am I?" She looks around her, "What happened to the rest of my crew? And who are you supposed to be?” NPC@annpc#557 | Mysterious Man: "You are safe on my ship, but your crew are gone, as they were meant to be.” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Then why did you bring me here?” NPC@annpc#557 | Mysterious Man: "Because we need your help, Commander Yala. You think you have saved the galaxy, but you have merely traded one fate for another.” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "Why should I trust you?” NPC@annpc#557 | Mysterious Man: "I am sure you have many questions. Come with me, and we will give you all the answers you want- and more importantly, the resources to act upon them.” NPC@annpc#557 | Yala: "And if I say no?” NPC@annpc#557 | Mysterious Man: "Then your friends would have sacrificed their lives in vain." He offers a hand to her. "Your choice, Commander.” NPC@annpc#557 | As Yala's gaze lingers on the man's hand, the camera fades to black...