ST:TTV612 | "Fight or Flight Pt. I"

Stardate 98048

The Valley Forge finally reaches the home of the 'Ice Giants', or Lodzki, to find no surprise in learning that their difficulties are only just beginning...

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View Act I

Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Keelah finds herself walking down a hallway. Around her, other Vulcans pass by, giving her all sorts of different glances. Some raise their brows in fascination, while others throw more - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - hostile looks in her direction. Keelah@crystyl tries extra hard to ignore the looks and go about her business like a good little Vulcan. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A pair of Vulcan guards step up to her, each holding a lirpa. Behind them, an older Vulcan calmly strides up with hands folded behind him, "Sumaal. V'Kash. Show her out of this building.” Keelah@crystyl looks between the guards and the older Vulcan with a perked brow. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Older Vulcan: "I know who you are, T'Keel, daughter of T'Lia. You do not belong here on Vulcan.” Keelah@crystyl:"There is no logic to your statement. This is my home, ergo it is where I belong.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Older Vulcan: "You speak to me of logic? You, who demonstrate a blatant disregard for our ways? You are no Vulcan, T'Keel." Keelah@crystyl:"The Path of Logic was introduced to guide a weaker Vulcan people to wisdom. Just because one has taken a step further along that evolutionary path does not mean they cease to be what they left behind.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Older Vulcan: "Is that what you believe? That you are stronger than us? That you have outgrown our ways? Guards, take her away.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The guards step forward, holding their lirpas in one hand as they try to grab Keelah with the other. Keelah@crystyl instinctively tries to defeind herself. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | She manages to push the guards back, but one of them knocks her onto her back with a lirpa. As the guard looms over Keelah, ready to strike a finishing blow, his neck suddenly snaps to an - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- unnatural angle with an audible crack, and he drops lifeless. The second guard turns but before she can do anything, she is hurled against a wall and knocked out. The older Vulcan stumbles back - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- before turning to flee, but finds himself lifted off the ground and hovering in mid-air, gasping for breath. Keelah@crystyl watches in confusion. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | An older T'Pia steps into view, not unlike the one she saw from the alternate future but uninjured. Her hand is outstretched towards the hovering older Vulcan as she looks to Keelah. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Pia: "Those blinded by tradition cannot stop our ascension.” Keelah@crystyl:"Pia, stop. Violence is not the solution.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Pia: "We do what we must to ensure the future, for we are the heralds of a new dawn.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Pia: "We are the beginning of a luminous age, mother.” Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, but if we resort to brutality to force that change then we are no better than those we are trying to help.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Pia: "There are some who must ultimately be left behind, as unfortunate as it may be. They cling to the past, like fleas on a dying carcass.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | T'Pia: "Our ascension is at hand. They will not stand in our way.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Keelah suddenly snaps awake... Keelah@crystyl sits bolt upright, flustering slightly to reconcile the sleeping world with the waking one again. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | She doesn't get much time, as she hears the comm sound. It must have been what woke her up the first time... Keelah@crystyl reaches for combadge and pinches it between her fingertips until she hears the familiar chirp of it activating, "Se'Lai…” Alien NPC@annpc#557 <C - TQ> Captain. Another Felmoran ship has just appeared on long-range sensors Keelah@crystyl:"Mm... Alright, I'm on my way" --- Keelah@crystyl steps onto the bridge a short time later, suitably refreshed, "Any change in the Felmoran's status?” Keelah@crystyl slips into her chair, sipping a raktajino. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Gwi nods, "Yes Captain. They've been moving away from us at high warp. They've just entered Felmoran space." Keelah@crystyl:"Are we in communication range?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | TQ shakes her head, "Negative, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"Very well, continue on course for now." Alien NPC@annpc#557 FX | The VF continues its current course for 30 more minutes, until Fisher announces, "We're officially crossing over into Felmoran space now.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Gwi: "That ship is still moving away from us on long-range sensors.” Keelah@crystyl:"Matching our course and speed.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Gwi: "A little faster than our speed, and slightly off our course.” Keelah@crystyl hrms, "Alright then. Maintain comm and sensor sweeps; we want to introduce ourselves at the first possible opportunity but I don't want to scare off a ship who obviously doesn't want to know.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Gwi nods, keeping an eye on the sensors. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A few seconds later, TQ announces, "QanwI' is reporting additional ships inbound. A heavy cruiser, two medium cruisers and a destroyer. They should be coming into our sensor range soon.” Keelah@crystyl:"That sounds more like a welcoming committee. Have Captain Vix come about and reform on our wing ahead of their arrival.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | TQ: "Yes Captain.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Gwi: "I see them now. It looks like the light cruiser from before is forming up with the new arrivals as well.” Keelah@crystyl:"Makes sense. If they saw us as 2 substantial cruisers, they probably didn't want to chance greeting us alone. I would probably have done the same." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Not long after, TQ announces, "They've just entered comms range.” Keelah@crystyl:"Alright, time to introduce ourselves. Open a channel.” Keelah@crystyl straightens a little in her chair as she awaits the feed.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | TQ: "They're not answering, Captain.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "Their shields and weapons are powered up.” Keelah@crystyl frowns a little, "Open hailing frequencies; all upper and lower bands.” Keelah@crystyl waits a moment before announcing, "Felmoran vessels; this is the Captain Keelah of the starship Valley Forge. We have come only in friendship." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "They are locking weapons on us, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl turns to Vrolmacht, "Raise shields only.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods and raises shields. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | TQ: "They've opened a channel, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl gives a satisfied 'hm' before nodding, "Let's try this again then.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A uniformed Felmoran appears on the viewscreen, "I am sure you are aware that we outnumber you and currently have our weapons locked onto your ships. If this is a trick, it will not end well - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- for you. You say you come in friendship? Explain yourself.” Keelah@crystyl:"I assure you, this is no deception. We come on behalf of the Coalition with urgent news for your government regarding an imminent threat from the Horde. Furthermore, your sensors have no doubt + Keelah@crystyl:+ already registered that we have one of your vessels in convoy with us. We recovered it - and it's crew - and seek to help return them.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "Recovered it? From the aftermath of a battle? I do not see any sign of damage upon the vessel.” Keelah@crystyl shakes her head, "It is one which was sent to deal with a Basilisk. Unfortunately they underestimated the range of it's psionic ability and succumbed to it.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "A Basilisk?" He checks something on a console before looking back to the screen. "Instruct the vessel to lower its shields and prepare to be boarded and inspected.” Keelah@crystyl:"The situation is still a little more complicated. I have a small team over there operating the ship which has been put into a deep freeze in order to force the crew to a hibernation state. They are + Keelah@crystyl:+ all fallen to the psychological impairment of the Basilisks interaction, and it was the only way to return them all home safely. If you still wish to view that vessel directly first; we shall + Keelah@crystyl:+ do as instructed; but you must take into account the accessible areas of the ship. I would appreciate you powering down your weapons if you expect me to make my people over there vulnerable.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "We will disengage weapons lock on that ship. I will send over a party equipped with the proper attire to withstand the temperature, but we must inspect that vessel and verify your - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- account.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "They are disengaging weapons lock on the Black Wyvern, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"I understand" she nods, "Thank you, I will await further communication once you have inspected the ship.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran nods and the call cuts. Keelah@crystyl slips back into her chair, "Once; just once it would be nice for someone to actually be pleased to see us..." --- Keliaya@anncaris | In the main engineering of the Black Wyvern where the skeletal crew is now assembled and manning the various makeshift stations, Emma gets a request from the VF to lower shields. Rianni@crystyl | Emma turns to Kelly, "Commander; the Captain's asking us to drop shields and prepare for a hostile inspection party from the Felmorans.” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "Do as instructed. Everyone stay at your consoles and don't make any sudden movements.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma nods and lowers the shields. Keliaya@anncaris looks around, "Where's Ensign Tierno?" Rianni@crystyl | Emma turns with a chuckle, "It's nap time. Or feeding, or changing... maybe burping…” Keliaya@anncaris chuckles, "I don't envy her job, but the baby seems to have bonded with her…” Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "Yeah, can't say I blame him really!” Keliaya@anncaris FX | Transporter beams appear across Main Engineering as Felmorans begin to beam in. As they materialize, it becomes visible that they are wearing EV suits with transparent faceplates and all - Keliaya@anncaris - armed with rifles. Keliaya@anncaris:"No sudden movements, everyone." Rianni@crystyl | Emma looks around slowly, and naturally tense, "You won't need those suits in here. This area is locked out of the environmental override.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma adds, almost under her breath, "Not like you need those rifles either…” Keliaya@anncaris | One of the Felmorans, a female, ignores Emma as she speaks to her own team, "Walder, check ship logs and communications. Emarna, ship systems. Doctor, you're with me.” Keliaya@anncaris | The female Felmoran looks back to Emma, "I'm aware, but we may be visiting other areas of the ship. Who is in charge here?” Keliaya@anncaris steps into view, "That would be me.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma looks towards Kelly. Keliaya@anncaris | Meanwhile, two of the Felmorans make for consoles across the room. Keliaya@anncaris:"I'm Commander Keliaya of the Valley Forge, temporarily in command of the Black Wyvern.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma watches those poking about the consoles, "You know, you could just ask us what the current setup is, right?” Keliaya@anncaris | Female Felmoran: "I am Katarya of Helsi." She shoots another glance at Emma, "Do all your subordinates speak out as much as her?” Rianni@crystyl | Emma glances back over her shoulder, resisting further comment. In her mind; those two are talking, she's talking to the others. And interrupting them would just be rude now... Keliaya@anncaris:"We encourage our officers to speak their minds. She's right, we're here to help.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "We do not know that for certain. Not yet. You are aware that you are in command of an enemy ship?” Keliaya@anncaris:"An enemy ship? Last I checked, this vessel was Felmoran.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "This vessel is Vasomiri. The Kingdom of Vasomir surrendered to the Cidrian Empire a little over a Brightening ago. That makes this vessel an enemy ship.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma does turn and interrupt now, "The Felmoran people are actually at conflict with one another now?” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "Yes. The Kingdom of Cidria rejected the authority of the High Queen and invaded Vasomir. Before any of the other Kingdoms could scramble our forces, they had already crippled the - Keliaya@anncaris:- Vasomiri fleet and forced their surrender, declaring themselves the Cidrian Empire.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma looks to Kelly, "Commander, the Riders’ warning about being too late... I mean, it does sound a lot like Influence doesn't it?” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "It certainly does…” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "I was under the impression you did not know anything about this. Otherwise you would not so blatantly fly a Vasomiri ship towards a Helsian battle group.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma thinks a moment, and looks to Kelly. Time for the grown ups to talk again. Keliaya@anncaris:"We were not aware of your current situation, no. But we may have reason to believe it was due to external influence.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "That would explain the Cidrians' methods. But I am not here for Kingdom politics. I am here to verify that you have no relation with the Vasomiri, as you claim.” Keliaya@anncaris | One of the Felmorans looks over from a console, "Katarya, the logs confirm their story. Communications also show that this vessel set out from Vasomir before its surrender to the Cidrians. Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya nods and the other Felmorans visibly relax, lowering their rifles or holstering them on their backs outright. Rianni@crystyl | Emma relaxes too, seeing the rifles drop. Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "Could we see one of the crewmembers affected by the Basilisk?” Keliaya@anncaris:"You can find them across the ship on the other decks. I could have someone show them to you, but they'll have to suit up. We...also found an infant on board," she looks to Emma. Rianni@crystyl | Emma looks over her shoulder before realizing the gaze was on her, not behind her, "Oh, right! Yes, there is indeed an infant who survived the Basilisk encounter.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya nods to the other Felmoran beside her, "Doctor, examine the crew and take Pekos with you, just in case." She looks to Emma, "Show me this infant.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "Hey, hold on! He's probably sleeping, and so's... um, what I mean is we shouldn't just barge in an-...” Rianni@crystyl emerges carrying the infant. Loud whispering, "What is all this noise? Do you know how long it took me to get him dow-..." looks to the Felmorans, "oh..." Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya turns and observes Rianni and the baby curiously, "So you're the one who's been taking care of the child?” Rianni@crystyl nods, "I found him after a power disruption prematurely released him from the stasis-pod-thing. He... kind of didn't give me a choice after that.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya chuckles and removes her helmet, "Yes, that happens with young children who get separated from their parents." She steps over, observing the baby. Rianni@crystyl has become a lot more adept at handling the baby during their journey and now holds him very comfortably as he sleeps. Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "If this child has imprinted on you, it should stay with you until we find someone to raise it.” Rianni@crystyl 's eyes widen, "That... won't take long right? I've just got back from one extended away mission, I really don't need to take another on so soon…” Rianni@crystyl | Emma joins her with a soft chuckle, "On the bright side, it's sounding less likely that they plan on using those rifles of theirs now!” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "We will be taking over this vessel and bringing it to Czostak. Whether your people will be allowed to come with us will be Captain Radomin's decision.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "If you are, we will find a place for the child on Czostak. If not, perhaps you may have to come with us on your own, but it will not be far.” Rianni@crystyl:"We must make your Captain understand; our ship came a long way to warn your government about the impending risk posed by a Horde fleet moving on your territory. You may have already seen signs of + Rianni@crystyl:+ their underhanded methods in subconscious influence driving civil discord and worse. We came to warn, and to help. So please, help us make your Captain understand.” Rianni@crystyl says with a pure innocence, laying down all the facts oblivious to previous partial definitions of the situation.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya nods, "We've certainly had civil discord and worse. What is this Horde fleet you speak of?” Rianni@crystyl glances to the others realizing how little they've already discussed, "That... will take a little more explaining-" she shifts the baby in her arms, "-that is perhaps best to come from my Captain.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "I will make sure Captain Radomin inquires on your purpose here. Once the Doctor reports back, we will return to our ship. More teams will be dispatched to take control of this vessel - Keliaya@anncaris:- once matters are settled. I trust the child is in good hands if they have been with you for all this time already.” Rianni@crystyl smiles at that, coddling the baby. Rianni@crystyl | Emma smiles as well, "Still, we would appreciate it if your doctor could check him over while here. We're not exactly experts on your physiology.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "I will ask him to check once he returns. Is he the only child on this vessel?” Rianni@crystyl:"At least the only one we're aware of…” Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "We did not want to pry any further into your people's systems than was necessary. His pod got opened through a fault, but we have not sought out others.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "If they are still in hibernation, they should be fine." She looks over as the Felmoran doctor and his escort returns.” Keliaya@anncaris | Doctor: "The crew do have the symptoms of Basilisk contact, at least all the ones I've seen so far. There's nothing I can do for them.” Rianni@crystyl turns to the doctor as well. Rianni@crystyl | Emma looks between the Doctor and Katarya, "That was why the Captain wanted to hibernate and return them; she has a means to help them but it is not without consequence for them.” Keliaya@anncaris nods to Zanah, who steps over. Keliaya@anncaris | Zanah: "We can get rid of the Basilisk's effects on them, but it involves wiping their memory entirely. They won't remember who they were before.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya nods, "I'll inform the Captain of it," she turns to her own doctor, "Check on the child as well. They are not as familiar with our biology.” Keliaya@anncaris | The Felmoran doctor nods and takes out a scanner, running it over the baby. Rianni@crystyl holds him steady and watches anxiously. Keliaya@anncaris | The doctor looks at the results for a moment before reporting, "The child is healthy. I can recommend a more specific nutritional arrangement, but what you're using now is keeping him in good - Keliaya@anncaris:- health. The colonists generally live rougher- including their children.” Rianni@crystyl smiles at the news that the baby is well. Keliaya@anncaris | Felmoran doctor: "Keep doing what you are doing, and you should be good.” Rianni@crystyl:"Thank you Doctor.” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya: "Let's return to the ship and update the Captain." She gives Rianni an appreciative nod, "Thank you for taking care of the child.” Rianni@crystyl smiles at the baby, "It has been a... not entirely traumatic experience.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma smirks, nudging Rianni, "Are you sure you even want to give him back?" she teases Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya chuckles, "We'll take him off your hands soon enough. If you aren't /too/ attached.” Rianni@crystyl flusters, hampered by holding the baby, which just makes her more flustered as he starts to stir, "I should, um... try and get him down again... excuse me" she quickly turns and goes to hide. Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya grins, looking to Emma, "A shy one, isn't she? So you aren't quite all as outspoken.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma gives an overly proud grin, "I like to think of myself as being particularly special!” Keliaya@anncaris | Katarya chuckles and looks back to Kelly, "We will be back soon." She taps an interface on the wrist of her suit, and the Felmorans transport away once again. Rianni@crystyl | Emma looks to Kelly, "Enigmatic bunch, aren't they?” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "That went fairly well, at least. We didn't have any misunderstandings, or phaser fire…” Rianni@crystyl | Emma nods, "That's always a good sign.” Keliaya@anncaris:"Contact the Valley Forge again, Ensign. We need to update them on what we've learned.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma returns to her console, "Aye Commander." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 FX | Back on the Valley Forge bridge, Keelah has just been filled in on what Kelly learned on the Black Wyvern when TQ says, "The Felmorans are hailing us, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"Put it through.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran male from before appears on the viewscreen. He seems less stern and more relaxed as he says, "Please forgive the curtness of our previous conversation. I had to verify your - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- story as you were traveling with what looked to be an enemy vessel. Allow me to introduce myself properly. I am Captain Radomin Brozek of the Helsian Fleet.” Keelah@crystyl smiles, "A pleasure to meet you, I am Captain Keelah. We were not aware of the rising conflict among your people, I apologize for any uncertainty brought to you by our arrival.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "You had no way of knowing, at least not from the Vasomiri ship. My team reports that the vessel departed Vasomiri space before they became a part of the Cidrian Empire.” Keelah@crystyl:"It would seem we have much to catch each other up on.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "It would seem so. My Lieutenant tells me you come to our space on a mission?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "All the Felmoran ships are powering down weapons now.” Keelah@crystyl gives a slight nod of acknowledgement to the side before looking back, "Yes, and one of increased... delicacy, given what we have now learned about current affairs here. Now that we are on friendly+ Keelah@crystyl:+ terms, perhaps you would care to join us here as my guest? I find such discussions somewhat easier in person, and it will be more practical for you to review our data.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "As much as I would like to join the front in Kodek space, my orders were to watch this region, and as we have seen no activity of interest other than you, I accept.” Keelah@crystyl smiles, "Excellent. If you wish to resume your scheduled patrol, we can accompany you while getting up to speed.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "That will be preferable. We shall resume our patrol, and I will join you once we are underway.” Keelah@crystyl:"Very good. I shall look forward to welcoming you on board then.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin nods, "I will see you then, Captain Keelah." --- Keelah@crystyl & Vrolmacht arrive at the transporter room, "Chief. Are the Felmorans ready to beam over?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Katie nods, "Yes Captain. We're all set to beam them over.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "Energize.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Four Felmorans materialize on the transporter pad, among them Captain Radomin and Katarya, along with two other males. Amidst the Valley Forge instead of one of their own ships, they appear - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - visibly oversized, rather than the Starfleet personnel looking small. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Captain Radomin steps off the transporter pad in one large stride, looking around, "An impressive vessel, Captain Keelah. If not a little small for my tastes," he smiles. Keelah@crystyl:"Welcome to the Valley Forge" she smiles, looking up... and up to him, "Apologies, but you are rather more statuesque than the average Federation citizen. If you would just indulge, we have our own + Keelah@crystyl:+ security measures to observe" looking to her side, "Commander" Keelah@crystyl | Vrolmacht steps forward, flashing a tricorder across the group. He takes a moment to verify the data with only a cursory glance to the rare aliens who even make him feel small, "No sign of + Keelah@crystyl + influence, Captain.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin tilts his head, "Influence?” Keelah@crystyl nods, "As anticipated. Please, I will explain all. If you would just follow me" she leads out, pausing after a step, "Oh and, mind your heads" she looks to the doorway as she passes through. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin and the other Felmorans duck as they pass through the doorway into the halls. Keelah@crystyl leads them to a nearby conference room where the other senior staff who aren't on the Black Wyvern await them, no doubt with plenty of small talk mostly centered on height difference and at least + Keelah@crystyl + two joking comments at Vrolmachts expense on the subject. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmorans take their seats around the table, barely managing to squeeze into the VF's chairs which thankfully manages to support their weight as a result of high quality Starfleet materials. Keelah@crystyl:"Ok, I know we have much to cover. Where would you like to start?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "Katarya tells me you've come here about some horde?” Keelah@crystyl:"One of the less colourful names they are known by" she nods, "Also referred to as the 'Army of the Dead' - with regrettably good reason.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "Is this the same demonic force from the rim that dominates the minds of others and enslaves them into its army?” Keelah@crystyl nods, "That sounds like an accurate description of them, yes. We came here as the face of the Coalition which is uniting this region of space to stop their advance. We have gained significant + Keelah@crystyl:+ expertise in counteracting their methods, but furthermore; intelligence on their movements. Intelligence which indicates that they may be targeting your people. And from you've said about the + Keelah@crystyl:+ recent civil conflict, it sounds like the Horde is already exerting its influence on some.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "Was that what you meant when you spoke of influence?” Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, the Horde consciousness is able to subtly influence the minds of those it has touched from an immense distance" she calls up a galaxy map showing their journey from Federation space, "We found + Keelah@crystyl:+ evidence of them influencing individuals from species in these regions months before their forces were known. They have an established method of utilizing this capacity sow unrest in a civilization + Keelah@crystyl:+ before their fleets approach and consume it. We have developed a means of detecting when an individual has been 'influenced' in this manner.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "A devious strategy. We have never encountered their forces, but we have heard of them from survivors of the civilizations they have taken. We call them the Bies, and they certainly - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- live up to their name. Do you think the Usurper may be under their influence, then?” Keelah@crystyl:"It is a distinct possibility" she nods solemnly, "We had hoped to reach your people before any such event occurred, but only recently learned of a second Horde fleet moving towards Felmoran space.” Keelah@crystyl:"We thought we had quelled their front line at Terminu..." she adds with regret. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "Terminu...the refugee world?” Keelah@crystyl:"It was... sadly a Horde force was able to take it following a major battle at the Lupan's Holy City. They consumed the refugee colony and regrouped a significant fleet there. Fortunately, the + Keelah@crystyl:+ Coalition was able to recover a significant number of refugees before that fleet arrived, but the colony is no more.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "And you believe they are coming for us next?” Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, we don't have much in the way of specifics. But our information suggests a Horde force is moving - unimpeded - from this general vicinity. Their projected route takes them through Felmoran + Keelah@crystyl:+ space and on to the Arshai homeworld of Vue En. Both regions represent significant population centres for the region, which we believe to be the attraction for the Horde.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "That is problematic, yes. Moreso with the war against the Cidrian Empire. I can see why they would be influencing the Usurper. We cannot prepare for war against the Bies when we are - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- at war with ourselves.” Keelah@crystyl:"Which we believe to be their exact intent. It is important though that we do not lose hope; when we discovered a similar ploy in effect with the Arshai, we were able to 'cleanse' the influence from + Keelah@crystyl:+ affected leadership who then regained their senses and were able to re-evaluate their thinking. If we can test your usurper, we may able to do the same there and reunite your people in order to help+ Keelah@crystyl:+ save them.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "Reaching the Usurper may be difficult…” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Katarya: "There is a way. Our superiors would likely not approve, but...luckily you do not answer to our superiors.” Keelah@crystyl looks between the pair curiously. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "You're not actually suggesting for them to join the Cidrians, are you?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Katarya: "They /are/ outsiders.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "But what if they are asked to prove their devotion? To attack our forces?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Katarya: "The Usurper's foreign allies are mercenaries. They have no devotion save to crystals and credits.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "But joining the Cidrians does not guarantee them access to the Usurper himself. They may be asked to prove themselves in battle first.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Katarya: "That...is true.” Keelah@crystyl:"Perhaps simply expressing a desire to negotiate an alliance would be sufficient for us gain an audience." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Cap'n, wha'bout th'Wyvern an' th'Basilisk?” Keelah@crystyl looks to Lennie for an explanation of her idea. Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Tha'ship belongs t'this Cidrian faction right? An' we'se recovered it an' it's crew while sortin' out th'biggest Basilisk these folks've ever seen. Tha's gotta count f'somethin', right?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin nods, "It would impress them, yes. But my superiors are not going to like it if I let you give the Wyvern back to the Vasomiri.” Keelah@crystyl:"You don't believe they will be persuaded by the news and evidence regarding the Horde involvement here?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "I think they will, but you are still a wild factor, and you will be giving a ship back to a group we are currently at war with.” Keelah@crystyl:"I understand your trepidation. Perhaps we should take a short break - give you a chance to absorb all of the information. Perhaps then a fresh perspective will provide direction.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin nods, "I will discuss it with my Lieutenants and the other Captains.” Keelah@crystyl:"Commander Vrolmacht can furnish you with all the available information we have. Very well then, we'll reconvence once you have had a chance to review the details.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmorans stand and Radomin looks to Vrolmacht, "We will appreciate all you have, Commander." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | After a short while, the Captain Radomin and his Lieutenants reconvene with Keelah and the VF senior staff. Keelah@crystyl let's them settle again before looking to Radomin, "Well Captain, I trust you have had sufficient chance now to fully absorb the available data?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "We have reached a decision.” Keelah@crystyl:"And what have you decided?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "We have not yet taken control of the Black Wyvern yet. And as members of the Helsian Fleet, we do not have claim to a Vasomiri vessel. For the moment, it is in your captivity. You - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- have previously chosen to hand it over to us, but that transaction is not complete. Which means the vessel is officially yours to do with as you please.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "My superiors may not like how I have handled the situation, but by our law I have made no mistake. I could have chosen to engage your forces for control of the ship, but without the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- presence of a superior officer to counteract my decision, the right to decide whether to engage is mine.” Keelah@crystyl:"Well for what it is worth, I am glad you decided not to engage us. And if it helps alleviate your superiors' concerns over your decision I may be able to offer you a little leverage in favour of + Keelah@crystyl:+ your decision there.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "And I have more information to offer you before you meet the Cidrians. Let us hear what you have to offer first.” Keelah@crystyl:"Perhaps 'see' would be a more fitting adjective" she taps her combadge, "Tee, please inform Captain Vix that she can now show herself.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin looks to Keelah curiously. Keelah@crystyl turns to the window, waiting and watching patiently for a few moments before the QanwI' ripples into view, cruising alongside them. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin turns to the window as well, observing the QanwI' and remarking, "You have ships with stealth technology.” Keelah@crystyl:"We have a number of allied assets. The QanwI' is a particularly well armed example. Given the many hostiles we've encountered in this region, we have found it prudent to keep her hidden for most of + Keelah@crystyl:+ the time.” Keelah@crystyl:"But my point being; perhaps prior indication of the QanwI's presence would further tip the predicted balance of an engagement... perhaps not outright in our favour, but certainly less optimistically + Keelah@crystyl:+ in your own. Enough to warrant a more prudent approach to the situation” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin nods, "Indeed. We do not possess such technology, and it has proven a strategic advantage for our foes. On the subject of which…” Keelah@crystyl looks back to Radomin curiously. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "The Lodzki Alliance- that is what we call ourselves, is largely self-sufficient. Unlike most others in this region, we have no use for mercenaries and only engage with outsiders for - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- the purposes of trade. The name you know us by, Felmoran, is one in the Carran Trade Speech that has been spread to most outsiders through trade.” Keelah@crystyl:"I see, thank you for the clarification. Believe it or not - in spite of current circumstances - the reason we first came out this far from our home was to explore and to meet new people like + Keelah@crystyl:+ yourselves. We are in fact scientists and explorers at heart.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "We have pushed beyond our borders several times, but we do not usually expand save out of necessity. We pride ourselves in being a patient and wise people. We do not have ambitions - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- of glory and conquest. But so far, the Usurper has been anything but a typical Lodzki.” Keelah@crystyl:"So why don't you tell us a little more about this usurper and what exactly transpired to create this divide among your people.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "What may be more relevant to your mission is that the Usurper, unlike the other Kingdoms, employs forces from beyond his own people. An army known as the Marauders from a fierce - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- reptilian species, a deadly Toroki mercenary band known as the Bloody Stingers who possesses stealth technology like yours, among others.” Keelah@crystyl:"Toroki?" she hrms, "We have dealt with their kind before, and even the not-so-deadly mercenary types can make for challenging foes.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "They have been particularly problematic. Our fleet relies on large, powerful cruisers and a number of dreadnoughts. The involvement of the Bloody Stingers has necessitated a change - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- in our traditional compositions. You have no doubt noted the single destroyer in my battle group. They are the most efficient for fending off the Toroki's ambushes and hit-and-runs, but we did - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- not rely on these types of vessels often in the past and have only limited numbers of them. That is why there is only one in this group, more of a token gesture by my superiors than an actual - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- effective defense against a Toroki strike." Keelah@crystyl:"I can see the logic in that" she smiles, "Mercenary forces are unpredictable, but also unreliable. I am confident that with the foreknowledge you have provided us, we shall be able to handle any + Keelah@crystyl:+ threat they pose.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "I was also hoping that the Usurper would be more amenable to an alliance with you, given his history of using foreign assistance, and allow you to get close to him. As for the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- Usurper himself, he was a Cidrian general by the name of Mihal Diacon. During his time as general, he rallied much of the Cidrian military to his side, and with the support of his foreign - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- mercenaries, seized the Cidrian throne. From their his expansion has been...unconventional.” Keelah@crystyl:"Unconvential? Also you say he seized his throne; what of the former leader he seized it from?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "The Cidrian Queen is dead, along with the entirety of the royal family. The Usurper is brutal and relentless. You are no doubt aware that the Lodzki people are long-lived, - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- significantly more so than many other species. It is not uncommon for our wars to last centuries, with many years of quiet between battles. Ever since Mihal took over, the Cidrians have moved - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- quickly. We believed it may have been due to the influence of his foreign forces, but perhaps it may be the influence of the Bies...this horde you come to warn us of.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "A distinct possibility" she pauses for thought, "Say for arguments sake that we are correct about the Horde and the Usurper... do the Lodzki have a plan for replacing this Mihal with a + Keelah@crystyl:+ new acceptable leader?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "There are other, less radical Cidrian noble families who can lead the kingdom. There are also rumours of survivors from the Cidrian royal family, but they are no doubt in hiding now.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "Perhaps after the Usurper is dealt with and the war is over, they may resurface once more.” Keelah@crystyl:"A promising eventuality, we shall keep ourselves open to word of any such survivors.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "As for the Vasomiri, their king is still on the throne as part of the terms of their surrender, but he has no actual power now.” Keelah@crystyl:"Are there any other powers in this conflict we should be aware of?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "The other kingdoms of the Lodzki Alliance currently stand opposed to the Cidrians- the four Czostak kingdoms of Rownia, Morzon, Helsi and Ziman, and one other colony kingdom, Kodek.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "Kodek is presently the front lines of the war, and falling quickly. Though more kingdoms stand against the Cidrian Empire, their foreign forces and defiance of the original accords - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- of the Alliance in the construction of additional dreadnoughts has given them an edge in this war. The Kodek dreadnought has just fallen not long before you arrived, and the Vasomiri dreadnought - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- was given over to the Cidrians during their surrender.” Keelah@crystyl:"This is more complicated than the Five Families..." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "The Five Families?" Keelah@crystyl chuckles shaking her head, "Never mind. What of the Horde? All this focus to know is on resolving your peoples conflict. But with that gone, we must turn our attention to what we must do to save + Keelah@crystyl:+ your people" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "If they can influence the Usurper from afar and cause us so much problems, how are we to fight them when they arrive?” Keelah@crystyl:"Their influence in this manner is limited, so I doubt we'll have to face the same again. However fighting them without protection is... ill advised.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "And I presume you have a means of protection?” Keelah@crystyl:"We do, but it is a process applied to individuals and so is not practical to safeguard an entire population.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "What of our fleets? Can it be applied to our militaries so we may prevent them from entering our territory?” Keelah@crystyl:"In time, perhaps. But it would still take considerable effort to do so. If I may suggest the unthinkable... we may need to consider - at least temporarily - evacuating your people back to + Keelah@crystyl:+ Vue En and the Waystation. There, with the full Coalition strength, it should be much easier to effectively immunize your fleets and enable them to stand against the Horde." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "Vue En? The Arshai world? We do not have the best of relations with them. It was barely two centuries ago when we warred with the Arshai.” Keelah@crystyl:"A lot has changed since then, Captain. The Arshai are an integral part of the Coalition and have been graciously opening their doors to refugees from all around. If your military forces were to + Keelah@crystyl:+ regroup with us at the Waystation, I am certain your civilians will be welcomed at Vue En while this Horde threat is dealt with." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "It is the closest place to go. We have the ships to evacuate our population, but that is not a decision I can make. I will have to notify the King, and the rulers and High Queen will - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- ultimately decide the course taken by our people.” Keelah@crystyl:"Of course, we have a lot of work to do in the meantime. We should just be mindful of the end goal in all of this.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "I will bring your message to my superiors and my king. If you can solve the war with the Cidrians, that will make things much easier.” Keelah@crystyl:"Indeed, we will certainly make every effort to do so.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin: "Thank you for your warning. And I wish you luck in dealing with the Usurper.” Keelah@crystyl:"Well, it sounds like it's about time for us to part ways for now then. Whatever happens with the Usurper; we'll be in touch again.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin nods, "And I will contact you with any updates as well." Keelah@crystyl nods and stands, "Best of luck to you Captain.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Radomin stands as well, "And likewise to you, Captain." --- Keliaya@anncaris FX | After the meetings with the Felmorans, the VF contacts the Black Wyvern to update the skeletal crew on the change of plans... Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "Commander, Captain Keelah is hailing you.” Keliaya@anncaris steps over to Emma, "Put her through.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah's face appears on the small screen in front of Kelly, sat in her own ready room, "Hello Kelly, how are things over there, keeping warm still?” Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "Captain. It's going well, all systems are up and running optimally and the environmental control's working as expected, so it's nice and temperate in Engineering.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah smiles a little, "That's good to hear. I'm afraid this is one of those goods news - bad news calls, Commander.” Keliaya@anncaris:"Let me guess, the Felmorans want us to stay with the ship until we get it to their homeworld?” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah chuckles, "You're getting good at this game, Kelly. And yes, we are to retain ownership of the Black Wyvern and present it to the leading faction as a means of ingratiating ourselves to the+ Rianni@crystyl + one they call the Usurper.” Keliaya@anncaris:"The Usurper...that doesn't sound so nice. I'm guessing this is the bad news?” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah shakes her head, "The Usurper is the name fondly applied to the current leader by our hosts here, and the person we suspect of Horde influence much like Vora was when we first arrived at + Rianni@crystyl:+ Vue En. The bad news was that you will need to stay over there and keep running that ship for a while longer.” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "We'll keep it running until we can get this ship to the Usurper's faction. Is there any difficulties we might expect from handing the ship over to them once we arrive? The Felmorans here - Keliaya@anncaris:- weren't too pleased to see us at first.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "Honestly... I am uncertain. We can be hopeful that it be more welcome as it belongs to that faction, but we have also been told that they are using Toroki mercenaries to bolster their + Rianni@crystyl:+ forces. They may not be so eager to welcome an unknown quantity.” Keliaya@anncaris:"We'll be ready for any trouble, then. Toroki mercenaries don't sound so nice either. This is the same faction the Felmorans who boarded us earlier are at war with, right?” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods, "That's right.” Keliaya@anncaris:"Why are we returning the ship to them, if I may ask? They're the faction we believe to be influenced by the Horde and caused this civil war.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah: "And that is exactly why we must do so. We need to ingratiate ourselves with them - earn their trust and their favour - if we are to get close enough to this Usurper in order perform an + Rianni@crystyl:+ influence scan, let alone treat them for it. We are hopeful that this endeavour will serve that purpose as opposed to them insisting we directly join their conflict to prove ourselves.” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "That makes sense. We'll stay with the ship and keep it going until we can hand it over. What about the Felmoran baby? Should we hand him over to this faction as well?” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah pauses, "That is a good question, and I wanted to get your opinion on the matter.” Keliaya@anncaris:"Well I suppose he is one of theirs, but if the faction is currently led by Horde-influenced leaders, it might not be the best place to hand over a child to. This is their ship though, and beyond - Keliaya@anncaris:- citizenship concerns we may not be able to keep them from knowing about his existence. It'll be risky if we attempt to hide him, but I don't know if it's a good idea to give him to them.” Keliaya@anncaris:"Maybe we can scan the ones who come to take back the ship. It could be that only the leadership is being influenced, and the regular officers and civilians are fine.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods, "Very well. I share your concerns about the child's wellbeing, but agree that it would risk raising suspicion if we return the entire complement minus that one child. How is Rianni + Rianni@crystyl:+ managing with her newfound responsibilities?” Keliaya@anncaris:"There's certainly challenges, but she's doing very well all things considered. The baby has certainly taken a liking to her," she chuckles. Rianni@crystyl | Keelah smiles, "Hopefully then she finds it a rewarding experience. If all is well then we shall look to alter course within the hour.” Keliaya@anncaris smiles back and nods, "We'll await your signal to alter course, Captain.” Rianni@crystyl | Keelah nods in kind before the comm close. Rianni@crystyl | Emma turns to Kelly, "I'll put in a requisition for more of chefs special broth then.” Keliaya@anncaris chuckles, "That would be a good idea. Do you know if Rianni and the baby are sleeping?” Rianni@crystyl | Emma glances to the room and back, "I believe so" she nods, "I think we'd hear by know if the baby was-...” Rianni@crystyl | Emma is timely interrupted by the sound of crying coming from the room. Rianni@crystyl | Emma chuckles, "Ok, I'm preeeetty sure they're not sleeping now.” Keliaya@anncaris chuckles, "I'll go give her the news.” Keliaya@anncaris steps over to the room. Keliaya@anncaris rings the doorbell and waits outside. Rianni@crystyl:"It's open" she calls out. Rianni@crystyl is sat on a chair in the corner, fussing the baby who does not seem to be a morning person judging from the grumpy wake up mood. Keliaya@anncaris steps inside, smiling at the two, "I heard the baby giving you trouble. How are things going?” Rianni@crystyl smiles, setting him down on the floor-bed while standing to stretch and wake up herself, "He's just grumpy when he wakes up.” Keliaya@anncaris chuckles, "I can see. Well, it turns out we'll be staying here for a little longer, and you'll have to take care of him for a little longer as well. Though I think you suspect as much from what - Keliaya@anncaris:- the Felmorans said when they visited.” Rianni@crystyl sighs, but smiles, "I will manage and do what is needed of me. I just hope we don't run into any trouble while I'm preoccupied with him, or napping or something.” Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "Thank you, Ensign. We're not expecting any trouble, but there has been a change of plans. We're returning this ship to the faction it belongs to now.” Keliaya@anncaris:"Don't worry though, we'll make sure whoever we hand the baby over to isn't influenced by the Horde themselves.” Rianni@crystyl thinks a moment and nods in understanding, "I imagine that will put us in good standing with those suspected of influence.” Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "Good political as well as tactical thinking. You're definitely on your way to making Captain, Ensign. That is the intention.” Rianni@crystyl chuckles, "I wouldn't go that far, Commander; I'm still getting used to Ensign! Besides, it makes sense purely from a strategic approach.” Keliaya@anncaris chuckles, "Hopefully it'll help us solve this civil conflict the Felmorans have going on. Unfortunately though, this is their ship, which means they probably have records of the crew outside the - Keliaya@anncaris:- ship as well, so they'll likely know about the baby. I would avoid handing him over to them at the moment altogether, but the best we can do is probably make sure that the people who take them - Keliaya@anncaris:- aren't influenced.” Rianni@crystyl:"Makes sense. Perhaps when we do encounter them, I can play on this whole 'imprinting' thing to keep him safe and buy us more time to ensure his wellbeing.” Keliaya@anncaris:"That's a good idea. We'll have to give him back eventually, but if you can buy us more time to rid them of Horde influence, it'll be safer for the baby.” Rianni@crystyl smiles, picking him up and fussing over him, "That is the important thing, isn't it.” Keliaya@anncaris smiles and nods, "We want to make sure he doesn't come to any harm. I'm sure most of the population where we're going aren't influenced, but given the political state of things, it might be best - Keliaya@anncaris:- to hold on to him as long as we can.” Rianni@crystyl:"We'll see this through Commander!” Keliaya@anncaris:"I'm sure we will. Keep up the good work, Ensign. And hopefully he doesn't keep you up too much," she chuckles and looks to the baby. Rianni@crystyl smiles and fusses over him some more as he coos and giggles. Keliaya@anncaris smiles back before turning to head out. --- Evanne Dra@annpc#557 FX | After parting ways with Captain Radomin's battle group, the VF and co. travel quietly for several hours through Felmoran space. The silence is broken when Eva reports, "QanwI' is reporting - Evanne Dra@annpc#557:- ships and weapons fire on long-range sensors.” Keelah@crystyl peers over, "Any indication of ID?” Evanne Dra@annpc#557:"Four of the ships are Felmoran. One of them bears an IFF identifying it as part of the Zimani Fleet. The other three are also Zimani, but not military. No ID on the other party, but they're not - Evanne Dra@annpc#557:- Felmoran and aren't running with active transponders.” Keelah@crystyl:"Could be the Toroki…” Evanne Dra@annpc#557:"They'll be coming into our sensor range in a few minutes. We have time to divert course to move out of their sensor range if we want to avoid them.” Keelah@crystyl:"That may be best" she nods, "Helm, plot a course to avoid the conflict zone. Link to QanwI's data for updated detail.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Ann: "Aye Cap'n. Alterin' course now.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557:"Additional data is coming in. The attacking force looks to be made up of a heavy cruiser and three destroyers. They've disabled the Zimani battleship and are boarding the other three now. They - Evanne Dra@annpc#557:- look to be cargo transports." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Looks like they'se Harcseen - remember them big ol' lizards Cap'n Vix fought in th'Arena.” Keelah@crystyl purses her lips, clearly fighting her natural do-gooder tendencies, "Continue monitoring. We must continue to avoid undue confrontation." Evanne Dra@annpc#557:"Looks like they're starting to beam onto the Zimani cruiser now. QanwI' is too far away to register internal weapons signatures, but they're definitely boarding.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "Understood." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Cap'n; looks like th'Harcseen're dealin' th'Felmorans a heavy blow on tha' ship. QanwI' shows Felmoran lifesigns droppin' fast.” Keelah@crystyl groans, pinching the bridge of her nose, "Helm... intercept course. Tee, advise Arindol and Wyvern to maintain their evasive course.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Ann: "Adjustin' to intercept, Cap'n.” Keelah@crystyl | TQ taps away: "Both vessels acknowledge and are maintaining course.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Ann: "ETA at maximum warp is 'bout twelve minutes.” Keelah@crystyl:"Very well.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | The minutes tick by as the VF moves on its intercept course. The Felmoran lifesigns stop dropping, but don't disappear entirely. Evanne Dra@annpc#557:"It looks like the Harcseen cruiser has taken the Zimani cruiser in a tractor beam.” Keelah@crystyl:"Have there been any communications - distress signals - or anything else from the Felmorans?" Evanne Dra@annpc#557 shakes her head, "No, but...it looks like the Harcseen have been jamming communications by flooding all regular Felmoran channels with static." Keelah@crystyl:"Hail the Harcseen.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557 nods, "The Harcseen cruiser is answering.” Keelah@crystyl:"On screen.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | A very reptilian visage with an elongated snout full of sharp teeth appears on the viewscreen. Evanne Dra@annpc#557 FX | https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swtor/images/5/54/Qyzen_Customization_3.jpg/revision/latest/top-crop/width/220/height/220?cb=2012100305001 Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Harcseen: "Who is this? I don't recognize you. Are you one of the other mercs?” Keelah@crystyl holds a firm and confident prose, "I was about to ask you the same thing." Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Harcseen: "We are under the employ of the Cidran Empire. We have this situation under control. The convoy is secured and will be brought back to the Felmorans as instructed.” Keelah@crystyl:"The convoy is to be delivered to the Cidran Empire? Then perhaps it is your fortune that we were in the area, as we are en route there already to make a delivery. We can take them for you, and + Keelah@crystyl:+ allow you to resume more important work.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Harcseen: "You are one ship? Are you sure you are capable? Our instructions are to deliver the convoy with not only the cargo, but as many ships intact as possible.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Harcseen: "We have already commandeered the transports and have the cruiser in tow.” Keelah@crystyl:"I am sure. We have sufficient means to handle it. Of course, if you would prefer to waste your time with the menial task of making the delivery, that is your choice. It will bear no impact to our + Keelah@crystyl:+ schedule either way.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Harcseen: "Be our guest, then. The prisoners are secured in the ships. They should not pose a problem to you. We will keep a lookout for more transports.” Keelah@crystyl gives a firm nod, "Good hunting." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "They've... actually released their tractor beam an' vacated th'Felmoran ship" she sounds rather surprised Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Harcseen: "Have fun towing." Keelah@crystyl perks a brow at the reaction, "As expected. Take them in tow and resume our original heading" she looks back to the screen with a nod before the comm is close.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557:"We'll need more people on those cargo transports. They're still warp-capable, but we can't tow all four ships...unless we get QanwI', Light of Arindol and the Black Wyvern on it as well.” Keelah@crystyl:"Not yet..." she looks to Vrolmacht, "Have armed security details assume control of each subsequent vessel. Have medical assistance with each team.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods, "On it, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"Once we rendezvous with our convoy, we'll look to taking them all in tow, but for now I want to know what they were so interested in with these ships.” Evanne Dra@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "I will instruct the security personnel to inspect the ships and their cargo and report what they find.” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Tha' were a might fine show ya put on there for 'em Cap'n. If y'all ever start a poker game on this ship... remind me ne'er to call ya bluff.” Keelah@crystyl looks over with a perked brow at the cheeky grin. --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | In the ready room, Vrolmacht and Silvestrie report back to Keelah after searching the Felmoran ships. Keelah@crystyl looks between the pair as they sit, "Alright gentlemen, what do we know?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie: "We've searched the inventory of the transports. They're carrying supplies- fuel, repair components, medical supplies. Valuable, but not exactly rare.” Keelah@crystyl:"Increasingly valuable in times of conflict. Especially if it means depriving the same resources from your enemy. What of the crews?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie: "They're being held captive. Apparently the Harcseen killed anyone who resisted, but those that surrendered or didn't put up a fight were put in confinement. They claim that the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- supplies were for Kodek, to either be distributed to the front lines or delivered to the besieged planet.” Keelah@crystyl hrms, “We can't be certain that the mercenaries didn't already communicate their success. Recommendations?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "We are not sure what would happen if we allow these prisoners to fall into the Cidrian Empire's hands. From all we have heard so far, the Usurper does not appear to be the most - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- honourable of leaders. The QanwI' could transport some of the prisoners to safety, but they will have to make multiple trips and cause a significant delay. We cannot bring the ships directly - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- back to their faction, as if the Harcseen have reported their success, the Cidrians will be expecting these ships and supplies delivered to them.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie: "We could also eject the prisoners into escape pods and let them leave a message for their allies to pick them up, though it might be more difficult to explain the missing pods.” Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, the mercenary Captain said he was delivering the supplies and ships specifically, but made no mention of the crew. What is the total combined complement we are looking at?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "184. The Felmorans are larger than even most Klingons, so it will be difficult to fit them all on the QanwI' at once.” Keelah@crystyl shakes her head, "That won't be a problem. Have Captain Vix accomodate all she can with priority on those most in need. The rest will come aboard here with us - the neutronium plating should prevent+ Keelah@crystyl:+ anyone from detecting their presence on board.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie: "Should we keep them in the brig, or confined to quarters?” Keelah@crystyl frowns slightly, "These are not our enemies, nor have they done us any wrong. For what reason would we want to confine them in the brig?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie: "We're taking them into the territory of their enemies to make an alliance with them. We might only be doing it to get close enough to free their leaders from Horde influence, but - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - they might not take our word for it. And if they do, we may not be their enemies, but the people we seek to get close to are. Some of them are members of the opposing fleets- they might take - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- this as an opportunity to sabotage the ones they do see as their enemies.” Keelah@crystyl:"A fair assessment" she nods, "Still, we do not want to presume to make enemies of these people. We shall bring those on board who can not be evacuated and explain the situation to them. If they are + Keelah@crystyl:+ amenable, then we will put them up in guest quarters under guard. I don't want to lock away innocent people without cause.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie nods, "Understood, Captain.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "I have also checked the ships themselves. The cruiser is a capable vessel and I can see why the Cidrians would wish to capture it. There is nothing special about the transports, - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- though perhaps they have a need for ships serving such a purpose.” Keelah@crystyl:"I have no desire to deliver a capable warship into the hands of hostile forces, but see no viable alternative at present short of destroying it. And I do not believe the situation warrants that.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "I agree. And once we are able to clear their leader of Horde influence, they may no longer be hostile forces, and the Felmorans will require every ship they can get to evacuate - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- their populations.” Keelah@crystyl:"My thoughts exactly. Alright, once the crews are evacuated we will take the vessels under tow using the other vessels with us.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie: "We'll get the evacuation underway and have the crews vacated as soon as possible.” Keelah@crystyl:"Very good. Inform me when the evacuees are on board, I will speak with them myself.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The two nod and step out. --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The evacuees from the cruiser are gathered in the lounge, all of them wearing the same uniform of the Zimani Fleet, save for one Felmoran. Keelah@crystyl enters the room, determined not to feel intimidated by the room full of less than happy giants waiting for her. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | One of the officers steps forward, staring Keelah down, "What is the meaning of this?” Keelah@crystyl stands her ground, craning her neck up to meet his gaze, "I apologize for any confusion. The situation is... complicated, but rest assured we are working towards the common good for your people.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Another Felmoran speaks, "Is that why you freed us? Are you working with the Usurper, or not?” Keelah@crystyl:"We are not, but neither are working against the Usurper.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #3: "What do you mean?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran without the uniform steps in front of the group, saying, "Let's all settle down, everyone. I'm sure she has good reason for her actions. Let's give her a chance to tell her story." Keelah@crystyl smiles at the friendly interjection, "Thank you. This is about the Bies; we have reason to believe that they are directing this Usurper's actions in order to drive a wedge between the Kingdoms. Our + Keelah@crystyl:+ purpose here is to verify this fact and - if needs be - cleanse the Usurper of this influence to restore their senses.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Uniformless Felmoran: "The Bies? They're real? I thought they were just colonial legends.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #1: "We have reason to believe that they exist.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Uniformless Felmoran: "Why didn't I know about that?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #1: "Because to spread common knowledge of such a force would cause panic." He looks to Keelah. "You think the Usurper is being manipulated by them?” Keelah@crystyl nods, "What has been happening to your people here is an established pattern which precedes a Horde - that's our term for them - invasion. We were already en route to your territory having gained + Keelah@crystyl:+ intelligence which suggested a substantial Horde fleet was bound for this region before we learned that events were already playing out this way here.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #1: "We have not yet seen this fleet you claim is bound for us, but what you claim about the Usurper is consistent with our intelligence. He was on a mission - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- outside our territories and when he returned, it was with his foreign allies to seize the Cidrian throne.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #2: "So you seek to end the war by freeing the Usurper from their control?” Keelah@crystyl nods, "That is our intention. We represent a Coalition of species who have come together to stop the Horde advance. I had hoped to reach your people before the Horde had begun to exert it's + Keelah@crystyl:+ influence so dominantly, but it would seem that they have been targeting you for some time.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #3: "What about us in the meantime. Are we prisoners on your ship?” Keelah@crystyl shakes her head, "Not at all. In truth, we would have sent you back to rendezvous with a nearby allied battle group along with the rest of your convoys complement, but our stealth escort has a very + Keelah@crystyl:+ limited capacity. You will be safe on board the Valley Forge until we can return you safely to your own Kingdom. I only ask that you show us patience while we perform our mission.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Uniformless Felmoran: "Great! I do not like being locked up. Thank you.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #2: "You were locked in with us for only a short period of time…” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Uniformless Felmoran: "Not the first time I've been locked up, and it never gets any better.” Keelah@crystyl:"You will be provided quarters on board and have full rights as our guests. Our security personnel will maintain a constant presence, but rest assured that is purely a matter of economy.” Keelah@crystyl:"In other words; it is easier to assign you an escort, than station personnel at all critical sections of the ship" she smiles. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #1 nods, "That sounds amenable to us.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #3: "Better than being handed over to the Usurper's forces.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Meanwhile, the Felmoran without a uniform looks around the lounge, "I hope you have larger beds than you have chairs…” Keelah@crystyl chuckles, "I'll see what we can do. In the meantime I must apologize as we are on our way to hand your vessel, convoy and cargo over to the Usurper's forces” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #1: "We would've lost them anyways. I understand your plan. It'll help you win the Cidrians' trust." Keelah@crystyl smiles, "Thank you for your understanding. I appreciate these are not the most favourable of circumstances, though remain hopeful that it is the beginning of a strong new friendship between us.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #1: "And I hope you manage to bring an end to the Usurper's war with your efforts.” Keelah@crystyl:"We have to. If we don't... well, if you know stories of the Horde then you know the price of failure here; for your people and many more beyond.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran #1: "May the fates favour you, then.” Keelah@crystyl:"May they favour us all" she dips her head, "Now if you will excuse me, we shall soon be rendezvouzing with our convoy and I have much to put in place. Please make yourselves comfortable; my staff + Keelah@crystyl:+ are at your disposal." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Keelah works away in her ready room after the VF takes aboard the remaining Felmorans on the captive ships and continues to Cidrian space... Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The sound of her combadge chirping interrupts her. Keelah@crystyl taps it, "Se'Lai.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 <C - Silvestrie> Captain, one of the Felmorans is asking to speak with you. Keelah@crystyl:<C> That took longer than I honestly expected. Have them brought to my ready room, please. Alien NPC@annpc#557:<C - Silvestrie> On it. They'll be arriving soon. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A little over a minute later, the doorbell to Keelah's ready room sounds. Keelah@crystyl:"Come.” Keelah@crystyl has risen from her desk and moved to the replicator since taking the call. She turns with a welcoming smile. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The one Felmoran without a uniform steps into the room, with his security escort waiting outside. He smiles back to Keelah, "Captain. First of all, let me thank you for not stuffing me in a - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- cell. I really appreciate it. And your beds were larger than I expected, give your size.” Keelah@crystyl chuckles, "I am glad we have been able to make you feel at home. Please, join me" she moves to the sofa, setting down her tea tray, "Care for some?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran steps over, taking a seat on the sofa as well, "What is it?” Keelah@crystyl:"It is a tea blend from my homeworld. My people generally have rather bland taste, but the spices in this blend can be rather soothing.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran nods, "I'll give it a try. I've never had many opportunities to try foreign food or drink. Non-Lodzki that is, not counting food varieties from the colonies.” Keelah@crystyl smiles, pouring one out and handing it to him, "So what can I do for?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "I was hoping you could tell me more about the Bies, but where are my manners? Allow me to introduce myself first.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "I am Teodar Prytowsi of Wysoglad. You can call me Fabula for short- that's my pen name.” Keelah@crystyl:"Your... pen name? Is that like a chosen name, a personal identity?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula smiles, "Yes, well, I did choose it. But it's not a common thing in Lodzki society, if that's what you're thinking.” Keelah@crystyl:"You do seem consistent in your standing apart from everyone around you" she notes Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula grins, "What can I say? It's my job. I'm not one of those soldiers, if you haven't already figured.” Keelah@crystyl:"That much was apparent" she smiles, "Yet you were on their ship, so how exactly do you fit in there?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "I'm a bard, under the employ of the High Queen. This was supposed to be a low-risk mission, you know? An everyday supply run that would bring me to the front lines so I can document - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- the war and compose stories and songs of our brave heroes, and the cruelty of the Usurper.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula sighs, "I should've figured something would go wrong when I signed up for this. But, no risk no reward!” Keelah@crystyl:"It was my understanding that the royal family was wiped out when the Usurper took control. I fail to see how you could be despatched as you say, after the fact?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Oh I'm working for the /High/ Queen. That's Her Majesty Queen Runata of the Dominsi Dynasty, High Ruler of the Lodzki Alliance, not Queen Cosmine of Cidria.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "I imagine all the noble lineages and kingdom politics must be confusing for an outsider such as you.” Keelah@crystyl:"My people were never of the inclination to such intricate societies, but it is a common enough theme among many Children species.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "What are your people like, if I may ask? Even we bards have limited opportunities to speak with outsiders, and I've never quite seen someone like you before. You look like the Arshai, - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- but less pink. And without the body and facial markings.” Keelah@crystyl chuckles at that, "You will find an incredibly diverse range of peoples on board this ship, and that is only a fraction of that which the Federation represents. As for my people..." she leans back, + Keelah@crystyl:+ casually crossing her legs, "I am perhaps not the most prominent example; racially you might say I'm like a bard among soldiers" she smile Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Oh? Are your people very militant, then?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Or do you just have more...artistic inclinations?” Keelah@crystyl:"It is true that Vulcan's have a particularly renown eye for artistic appreciation, but no. Vulcan society is built around a path of pure logic, and emotional suppression.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "That must be...quite boring. Your people have emotions, don't you? At least you seem like you do. Or is that what makes you different?” Keelah@crystyl:"I am different because I do not suppress my emotions, I embrace them. Though to me it is a perfectly natural state of being and one that is more aligned to our people as they once were, it is + Keelah@crystyl:+ frowned upon by my people and considered deviant behaviour, like it is a conscious decision to be this way.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "And I thought my job could be restrictive. I can't imagine a people that actively suppresses something as basic as emotions.” Keelah@crystyl:"The practice served it's purpose when we faced self annihilation from a time many species face of being a horribly violent people.” Keelah@crystyl:"But, you did not come here to learn about my being a misfit among my kin" she smiles, "You said you wanted to know more about the Horde?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula nods, "Yes. We've all heard rumours and legends, but it seems the military was holding out on us. You said you represent a group working to stop them?” Keelah@crystyl:"The Coalition" she nods Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "I don't know how much of this I'll be allowed to publish, but personal curiosity always gets the better of me. Though if what you claim is true and the Horde are targeting us and - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- causing this war, people should be warned before it gets any worse.” Keelah@crystyl:"That may not be as effective as you wish, since it ultimately comes down to a matter of conjecture in the public eye. At best, it may sow seeds of doubt and unrest.” Keelah@crystyl:"There will be a time when the masses need to understand, but that time is not yet upon your people.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "I suppose that's why the High Queen and the militaries haven't been telling us everything. Don't worry, I'm not out to cause chaos. I'd just like to learn more about the Bies. You've - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- met and fought them already, I assume?” Keelah@crystyl nods, "A few times now. None of which are particularly fond memories.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Is it true that they can outright dominate your mind? Make you a slave who fights and works for them?” Keelah@crystyl:"It is that, and more. Those who have been enthralled for extended periods undergo physiological changes as well.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "But you're fighting back. How do you resist their powers?” Keelah@crystyl:"Since learning to identify a particular neural anomaly which is indicative of 'influence', we have developed subcutaneous that protect a person from that this influence" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula nods, "And that's how to plan to get the Usurper to come to his senses?” Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, it is our intention to test the Usurper and - if found to be influenced - cleanse them from it. Where we have done so in the past, individuals have found themselves quickly questioning their + Keelah@crystyl:+ own recent actions and sought to restore things.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "End the war in one swift stroke and save our people from the Bies Horde. Now that's going to make for quite a story.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Maybe even worthy of a heroic ballad!” Keelah@crystyl chuckles, "I am certain many of our missions in recent months could warrant the same, however if you ask any of the crew I am sure they would not see it as such.” Keelah@crystyl:"Except Mia perhaps, you would get on well with her I suspect…” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Oh? What's she like?” Keelah@crystyl:"She is..." she smiles, "Well, you will see. But suffice to say you will find her to be a kindred spirit, the rest I will leave for you to discover yourself.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "She certainly sounds like an interesting character. I'll have to meet her while I'm here! Speaking of which...I have a request, if you'll indulge me.” Keelah@crystyl waves a free hand while sipping her tea, "By all means, ask. The worst that can happen is that I say no.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "As I've already told you, I'm one of many bards under the High Queen's employ to document the war and write stories and songs of it. What we publish has to be approved, but we have - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- agency in where we go, well, except the restricted places we're not allowed to go. I have a friend on the Royal Guard dreadnought, and another down on the ground on Kodek. But I think the biggest - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- story to be told is here. So I wanted to ask...if you offload the military officers before this is over, is there any chance I can remain on board?” Keelah@crystyl considers him a moment and smiles, "You have only just arrived here, and so everything is very new and strange. I can see the appeal and respect your eagerness, however I would encourage you to not + Keelah@crystyl:+ jump into any rash decisions one way or the other" she sips her tea, "I tell you what I will do; as and when we find ourselves at that decision point where your people are disembarking; if - at + Keelah@crystyl:+ that time you find yourself still wanting to remain here, with a more thorough understanding of what that might mean for your future, then come ask again.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula nods, "That sounds fair. In the meantime, I will see what I can learn about your people to make you less new and strange," he smirks. Keelah@crystyl smiles, "I welcome your curiosity, and would actively encourage you to indulge. You will find it shared with many who serve on this ship, and will find them equally curious about you.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Excellent! We bards too often get the short end of things for being curious. I'm glad to see your people encourage it.” Keelah@crystyl:"Just keep in mind that some forms of curiosity are less welcome, but your escorts will ensure you don't stray into any areas where curiosity is not welcome.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula nods, "All they have to do is let me know I'm not supposed to be there and I won't venture any further. I'm used to staying on military ships.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Anyways, where might I find this Mia?” Keelah@crystyl hrms, "She does get around a lot... it would depend if she has lessons today or not, and I do not believe she anything scheduled for this evening in the lounge so may or may not be there later on.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "I'll see if I can find her, and I'm sure there are plenty of other fascinating people on your ship to meet.” Keelah@crystyl:"That is something I can confidently guarantee for you, including an Arshai by the way…” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Really? Are they are part of your crew as well?” Keelah@crystyl:"This particular Arshai is a former member of this crew who now serves more of a diplomatic function on board as a representative of her people.” Keelah@crystyl:"However you should also be aware that a large number of Orions on board hail from a shared colony with the Arshai at Vue En.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "The Arshai are a part of your Coalition then, I take it?” Keelah@crystyl nods, "Indeed. They have been instrumental in supporting not only the rehousing of refugees, but also the recovery of those recently enthralled.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula nods, "I suspect they have quite a few stories to tell as well. We haven't had the best of relations with the Arshai, and I've not had many opportunities to meet them.” Keelah@crystyl:"I am aware of the history between your peoples, which is why I did not want to risk you being surprised by suddenly encountering their presence here.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Don't worry, I have nothing against their people personally, but I appreciate the warning.” Keelah@crystyl:"Excellent, then I hope you find your time on board - however long it may be - to be as fruitful as I anticipate it will be. Welcome to Valley Forge Fabula.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 stands and smiles, "Thank you, Captain Keelah. And I'll try to make myself useful as well. I'm well-versed in the history and cultures of the kingdoms. If you ever have any questions about our - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- politics, you have but to ask me.” Keelah@crystyl nods, setting her tea down, "I appreciate it, and may well seek your insights as we come to interact with the other Kingdoms.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "You know where to find me, Captain." He smiles again before finishing his tea and turning to head out. --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | In the lounge, Fabula is seated on one of the stools by the counter, chatting with off-duty crew as he sips from an iced drink in a glass. Mia@crystyl wanders in, looking around eagerly and getting waylaid with greetings and friendly catch ups with a number of people as she is quickly drawn around the room. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Well, the creatures of the Shadow Lands /used/ to be a problem. Still is for some border villages, but with modern technology- " he pauses as he hears someone greet Mia and glances to - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - Trenick who is seated nearby, "Is that Mia?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Trenick: "Yes, that is her.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Excuse me." He picks up his drink and heads over. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The tall Felmoran bard eyes the drone following Mia curiously before stepping up to her and asking, "Mia?” Mia@crystyl is chatting away with with Daaz and a couple of the MACO's, "Ooh, one of our new guests! We were hoping to meet some of you before long!" she exclaims, then turns with a bright smile. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "And I was hoping to meet you! The Captain said you might be an interesting fellow to get to know.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula smiles, "I am Teodar Prytowsi of Wysoglad, but you can just call me Fabula, humble bard, poet and writer.” Mia@crystyl:"Ooh, not only a bard but a humble one at that? C'est magnifique! Please, won't you join us?" she smiles, bounding over to an empty table with a cheery wave to Daaz and the others. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula steps over and takes a seat at the table, "It would be my pleasure!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | He sets his drink down on the table, looking to Miadrone again, "What is that drone following you?” Mia@crystyl watches him, and smirks, "That is us!” Mia@crystyl | Miadrone chirps an affirmative. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula looks to the drone, then back to Mia, then back to the drone and Mia again with a tilt of his head, "That is...you?” Mia@crystyl:"Oui!" she chirps happily, "To explain; we are an artificial lifeform, well, two of them to be accurate. The little one" she gestures to the drone who gives another friendly chirp while bobbing mid + Mia@crystyl:+ air, "- and the avatar" she smiles, gesturing down herself. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula widens his eyes, "You are an artificial intelligence? I would never have guessed! You act so...animated.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "I suppose we've only scratched the surface of AI technology, or so I've been told. I've never studied the intricacies of technology.” Mia@crystyl giggles, "We are... unique in that regard, our personality matrix was compiled from the mind of our creator so we are - in a very real sense - a reimagining of her!” Mia@crystyl:"We started as independent AI's, but networked together in order to fully realize our ambitions.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Fascinating. I've never met anyone like you before. So the physical you I'm seeing right now...that's based on your creator?” Mia@crystyl nods, "Oui! Our avatar was first created as a teaching aid. Our creator was a history professor you see, so we were created in the image of her younger self during that period so we could teach + Mia@crystyl:+ cadets on the holodeck.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "But you became a fully self-aware copy?” Mia@crystyl:"Actually, that program was created to be completely self-aware. It was however, confined to the holoprogram it was built into.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula looks around, "But you're not being projected into this lounge as a part of a program, are you?” Mia@crystyl shakes her head, "That was the driving force for us to network with the little one; she had the freedom to roam and interact, but lacked the capacity to engage with biological lifeforms in this + Mia@crystyl:+ manner. Our joining allowed the avatar to leave the holodeck, and the drone to be a productive member of society.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "So the drone is a part of you now, but previously its own AI?” Mia@crystyl:"In essence, yes. We were two separate programs which merged. We now reside as one within the drone shell, but also exist through our avatar which we have evolved beyond holographic projection to + Mia@crystyl:+ atomic reproduction.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "That is quite a story! You can probably write a song or a story of how you came to be! I've certainly never seen anyone like you, and I bet there's plenty of people who would be - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- interested in your story.” Mia@crystyl giggles, "The Federation had to classify us as a whole new and unique form of life!” Mia@crystyl:"As for writing songs, we suspect this is the reason Capitaine Keelah directed you to us. Though we have never composed anything before…” Mia@crystyl:"Ooh! Could we hear one of your songs?" she bounces excitedly at the prospect. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula grins, "I would be pleased to present something to you. And I presume you are something like a bard as well?” Mia@crystyl:"We find the idea very... romantic! But no, we simply sing songs written by others to entertain the crew.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Oh I sing plenty of songs composed by others as well. Composing your own is difficult, but certainly rewarding once you manage it!” Mia@crystyl:"We imagine so! But we have never known where to start! We would love to hear about your adventures as a bard though, perhaps we will find inspiration in them!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Oh I've got quite a few in my two centuries of working as a bard. And I'm just as curious about your adventures, from what I gathered from your Captain, you've been through quite a - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- lot, and you're fighting against the mythical Bies!" Mia@crystyl:"Ooh, ooh, ooh! We know!” Mia@crystyl bounces more excitedly than ever. Mia@crystyl:"If you show us the style of your songs and stories, perhaps we can help you write one of our adventure with the Bies! Then we will also learn about songwriting too!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula smiles at Mia's excitement, "An excellent idea! Our songs come in three main varieties- the classical ballads, the folk songs and the ambient songs.” Mia@crystyl leans in, resting her elbows on the table and her chin on her palms as she listens intently. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "The classic ballads are used for heroic deeds, biographies of significant people or accounts of major events. They're usually performed at festivals or other such special events. Depending on the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- ballad, they can be around the length of a folk song, or practically be an epic in musical form performed over hours- with intermissions in between, of course.” Mia@crystyl:"They sound very grand and deserving! What about the folk songs?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Folk songs are shorter songs that are listened on a more everyday basis. The sort people keep recordings of or are played on the streets. There's two main kinds, the traditional folk - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- music which are passed down from generations ago and have always been popular, and modern folk music which is composed for entertainment within our generation.” Mia@crystyl:"Are they generally about anything like the ballads?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Some of them cover similar topics, but they can be about anything, unlike the ballads which are always written in honour or rememberance of something." Mia@crystyl:"How fascinating! In Human culture, folk songs tend to be imaginative retellings of historical events and people of significance, like your ballads. Whereas our ballads tend to be more pure fiction or+ Mia@crystyl:+ fantasy! Isn't that funny? What about your ambient music though? When we sing in this lounge it is often for ambient atmosphere." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Some of the folk songs are often played for ambience as well, but ambient music is usually music written specifically for such. With very rare exceptions, ambient music don't have any - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- lyrics, they're simply made to provide atmosphere, to evoke a specific emotion. Most of them are composed with the intention of going with something else, some specifically made to be paired with - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- a non-musical work, while others are to be played in bars or lounges like this one.” Mia@crystyl nods, "Aah yes, that is comparable to our definition. You should peruse the musical database while you are on board, we think you will find many interesting examples from countless civilizations!” Mia@crystyl:"But first things first... we must explore your music!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "I can present one of my songs, though...I will need an instrument.” Mia@crystyl:"We can program a pattern into the replicators if you need something specific!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Excellent! There is a traditional instrument a large number of our songs are composed with. We call it a Nunia. It's a string instrument, not particularly large- I can draw up how it - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- appears for you if you need, and you should be able to see how it works from that.” Mia@crystyl:"That should work!" she looks to one side briefly before a Starfleet PADD materializes on the table in front of Fabula. Mia@crystyl:"There you go! We can extrapolate your data directly into a replicator pattern from that.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula looks at the PADD with surprise, "How do you do that?” Mia@crystyl chuckles, "The same way we generate our avatar! We can not simply replicate products indefinitely, but since it is for single time use and for us to absorb the information, it will be reabsorbed + Mia@crystyl:+ again once you are finished with it.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Ah! So you have a replicator built into you? How interesting.” Mia@crystyl:"By some definition" she nods, "But please, proceed! We are curious to see this instrument of yours and how it compares to those we are familiar with!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula begins sketching on the PADD as he asks, "You say this is how you generate your avatar...does that mean the avatar is more than just a holographic projection?” Mia@crystyl:"Very much so! At first, it was a holographic projection. but that lacked many of the sensory inputs we desired! With assistance from our friends we were able to upgrade the little one's replicator + Mia@crystyl:+ node with one incorporated a form a nano-replication from a species called Olelian.” Mia@crystyl:"So now, instead of maintaining a constant projection; we replicate a self-sustaining emitter core" she hovers a hand over her midriff suggesting it's presence, "This emitter replicates our physical + Mia@crystyl:+ avatar with a more... natural sensory input net." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "Impressive! So it's like a proper recreated body, and not just a simulation?” Mia@crystyl smiles and nods, holding out her hand and pulling the sleeve up, "See for yourself. Blow.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula leans in curiously and blows. Mia@crystyl shivers slightly at the sensation, and he would be able to see her skin turn to gooseflesh while the fine hairs stand on end. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula widens his eyes, "Wow. You really meant it when you said more natural. If I didn't know beforehand, I would think it was a flesh and blood body!” Mia@crystyl:"We have devoted a significant portion of our operating resources to recreating every sensation of the living body we remember as our creators. Though it was solely the dream of our avatar, the drone+ Mia@crystyl:+ quickly came to welcome the experience of sensation as well.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "I can imagine it must be quite interesting to experience for someone who's never experienced it before. Your experiences can /definitely/ make for a great story.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | He slides the PADD across with his depiction of the instrument, "Here. hopefully this is enough to work with.” Mia@crystyl smiles, "We only hope it is merely the first chapter of a long and exciting story!" she takes the PADD to view the drawing. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The drawing depicts a lute-like instrument, with a few differences from a classic Earth lute. Mia@crystyl hrms, "This should be a simple adaptation from an instrument of our peop.”le twe call a lute" the PADD ripples away, "It should not take long to generate the new pattern Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula watches the PADD ripple away and observes with interest as he sips his drink. Mia@crystyl:"A moment" she smiles to excuse herself as she stands and crosses to the replicator. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula smiles back, "Take your time!” Mia@crystyl taps away, calling up the pattern she just generated and uploaded. Moments later, the instrument appears. Mia@crystyl with a satisfied smile, she retrieves it and returns to the table, presenting it proudly to Fabula. Mia@crystyl:"It may not be precise to your native designs as we have interpolated dimensions and scales based on your diagram. We hope however that it will suffice.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula looks over the instrument before picking it up and giving it a few plucks, "It's good! We usually play hand-crafted instruments so there is some variation anyways, but this is certainly - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - good enough to play.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "I will do a traditional folk song, to show you the style of our music.” Mia@crystyl beams excitedly, folding her hands as she leans back ready to listen Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula begins strumming the instrument while he sings along in melodious but alien words. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sO600z5eXe4&ab_channel=AndreiKrylov-Topic (For the music!) Mia@crystyl smiles and sways as she listens, giving a generous applause at the conclusion, "How wonderfully charming!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula smiles back, "It is one of the first songs we learn, about a bard who travels Czostak, seeking adventure for inspiration for new songs.” Mia@crystyl:"A very appropriate starting song!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula: "I'm glad you think so! There are more I can perform, if you want a better grasp of how they go before we start composing our own…” Mia@crystyl:"We want to hear them all!" she giggles, "But perhaps we should focus on the style we would want to write as a means of teaching you about our voyage out here. So we think we should focus on ballads!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula nods, "I'll demonstrate one of the shorter ballads for you then- by shorter I mean it's one of the ones without intermissions, but it is still quite long…” Mia@crystyl smiles, "We are in no rush!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fabula begins strumming away again, "Now, this tale begins on one of our first warp-capable starships..." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 FX | Keelah is called to the bridge again as the QanwI' reports more ships on sensors, this time a small group bearing Cidrian IFFs. Keelah@crystyl emerges from the ready room, "What is the status of the Cidrian fleet?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "They appear to be in a patrol pattern, still outside our sensor range but within the QanwI's. Helm has a course change ready to approach them on your mark.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "Adjust heading.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fisher: "Aye Captain. Adjusting heading towards the Cidrian ships. ETA is twenty-six minutes.” Keelah@crystyl takes her seat, "Silvestrie, have your teams inform our guests that we will soon be making contact with Cidrian forces and have them prepared to take shelter.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie nods, "On it, Captain.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 FX | Several minutes pass quietly before the VF and co. come into sensor range of the Cidrian ships, reading as one heavy cruiser and two light. Before long, VF enters the Cidrians' range as - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - well, and sensors show them changing course towards the VF.” Keelah@crystyl:"Tee, try hailing them as soon as come into range.” Keelah@crystyl | TQ nods, "On it, Captain.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A few more minutes go by before the VF enters comms range. The hail is picked up quite quickly by the Cidrians. Keelah@crystyl | TQ: "I have them now Captain. Patching it through.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A Felmoran female appears on the viewscreen, wearing a uniform distinct from any seen to date with red and black as primary colours and a gold trim. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "Identify yourselves. You are carrying captive ships and travelling alongside a Vasomiri vessel, but we do not have you listed among our mercenaries.” Keelah@crystyl presents a friendly and relaxed demeanour, "Greetings. We came after hearing of the difficulties facing the Cidrian Kingdom to offer our assistance. As you have already noted; we have recovered one + Keelah@crystyl:+ of your allied vessels - and her entire complement - as well this convoy of enemy supplies.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "Recovered?" She looks away from the screen for a moment before turning back and nodding. "Yes, the Black Wyvern was reported as missing after being dispatched to take care of an - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- inbound Basilisk. You say you have the entire complement?” Keelah@crystyl nods, "Yes, it is complicated; but they are alive. They were taken unawares by this particular Basilisk's range so we have induced hibernation until we could return them home.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "So they're affected by the Basilisk, then?” Keelah@crystyl:"Regrettably, yes. We were at least able to take care of the Basilisk so it no longer threatens the colony, or any others for that matter.” Keelah@crystyl stands, "But where are my manners; I am Captain Keelah of the Valley Forge.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "It is good to hear that the Basilisk is taken care of. I am Ecatera of Adancaia, Captain of the Cidrian Fleet. You said you come to offer your assistance? Are you seeking to join - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- as a mercenary?" Keelah@crystyl:"If that is your way, we are aware of mercenary forces being employed here. We are however strangers to this region of the galaxy and are more interested in seeking alliances with reliable forces.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ecatera: "Well, you have certainly proven your worth with this little collection you are bringing us. What do you seek to gain out of this alliance then, if not payment?” Keelah@crystyl:"Well, being a long way from home we are always on limited resources. We would like to make port for repair and resupply. I am happy to consider any arrangement in mercenary terms, just to forego the+ Keelah@crystyl:+ faff with payments and go straight to the part we spend those earnings on our needs" she smiles, "Consider it a win-win scenario if we can find an accord.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ecatera: "The closest supply point would be Kodek, but that's officially under siege. You'll have to make for Vasomir.” Keelah@crystyl:"Vasomir, that is where the Black Wyvern is from, is it not?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ecatera: "That's correct. We'd appreciate it if you can bring the Black Wyvern and the other ships there as well.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "Sounds like a plan. I assume from there we will able to gain a more solid understanding of the current situation and find where we can best assist?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ecatera nods, "General Velkar is still stationed there. Tell them you were sent to him by Ecatera.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "I shall do so, thank you.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ecatera: "Thank you for offering your assistance. We could use every ship we can get." Keelah@crystyl:"Rest assured we will do everything we can to ensure a swift end to hostilities between the Kingdoms.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ecatera nods again and the call ends. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "Perhaps the war is not going as well for the Cidrians as the other Kingdoms believe. They seem very keen to have additional ships.” Keelah@crystyl:"Indeed, we will use this to our advantage. But first, we have a General to meet.” Keelah@crystyl | TQ: "How is Captain, that you can be completely honest with them, but also frame the truth in a manner that makes it sound like we're on their side?” Keelah@crystyl looks over with a perked brow and smiles, "But we are on their side Tee, remember." Keelah@crystyl | Lennie snerks, "Diplomats. Jus' wait til' ya get tha' course in ya cadet trainin' Tee!" Keelah@crystyl holds a smug Vulcan expression as she turns back to the front, "Helm, adjust heading to Vasomir.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fisher: "Aye, Captain. Setting course for Vasomir." Keelah@crystyl:"ETA at our current speed?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fisher: "Thirty-five hours. We can speed it up to thirty-three, but I can't fly any faster with a ship in tow.” Keelah@crystyl shakes her head, "I don't think it's worth stressing the tractoring for the sake of a couple of hours.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fisher nods, "Maintaining current speed, then.” Keelah@crystyl stands, "Vrolmacht, you have the bridge." --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Over a day later, the Valley Forge finally nears the colony of Vasomir.. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Fisher: "ETA four minutes, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"Any signs of reaction to our approach?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Thorkildsen: "I'm reading activity in one of their orbital stations. They must be preparing to receive our ships." Keelah@crystyl:"It's possible that the patrol group preempted our arrival. What can we tell of the planet itself?” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Well f'one, there's a hella lot more transports workin' in orbit than there oughta be for a population like this.” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Besides tha'; looks like a terraformed C class planet. Mostly ice wit' a little liquid water. Seein' multiple settlements all around it. Pockets o'wildlife too but no natural distribution+ Keelah@crystyl:+ so likely not indigenous.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "Keep monitoring that extra traffic. Tee, see if you can contact them and get approach arrangements for us.” Keelah@crystyl | TQ nods, already working on it. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | TQ gets a response from the orbital station! They instruct the captured ships and the Black Wyvern to be handed over while the other ships are to remain in orbit. They're also giving transport - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- coordinates to the surface to meet with the General. Keelah@crystyl | TQ relays this to Keelah. Keelah@crystyl:"Have they been made aware that we currently have our own crew running the Black Wyvern and we need a medical handover as well?” Keelah@crystyl | TQ: "Reinforcing that point now and requesting specific handling instructions.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The station control acknowledges and asks the Black Wyvern to approach the station where appropriate personnel will board to conduct the handover. Keelah@crystyl | TQ: "Instructions received and relayed to the Black Wyvern, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"Very good. Have Kelly and her team join us at the transport coordinates once they've handed it over.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | TQ gets a message from Guardian-Captain Daian, who is also requesting to join at the coordinates. Keelah@crystyl nods to TQ after she relays that, "Of course. Ask Captain Vix to remain on watch up here and take command of our convoy in the mean time. She'd only get bored playing diplomacy anyway" she smiles. Keelah@crystyl | TQ chuckles and relays the instructions. --- Keliaya@anncaris | After receiving the instructions, the Black Wyvern heads for the orbital station as they make preparation for the handover... Keliaya@anncaris looks around to check if Rianni and the baby are up. Rianni@crystyl comes out of the baby room, "I've packed up everything in there, Commander.” Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "Good. It's almost time to leave the ship behind. Said your farewells to the little one yet, Ensign?” Rianni@crystyl glances back to where he is sleeping, "I... think so. It's actually not going to be easy, is it...?” Keliaya@anncaris shakes her head, "Unfortunately not, but you're going to have to let him go sometime. We're not the best people to raise a Felmoran baby to adulthood.” Rianni@crystyl nods, "I know, and I will be glad to have my life back to normal. I guess I just never really appreciated how strong that maternal instinct can be when thrust upon you.” Keliaya@anncaris nods back and smiles, "It's hard to let go, but it's hard to accept that sudden responsibility too. Thank you for taking care of him all this time. You did a great job.” Rianni@crystyl chuckles, "Not like he ever gave me a choice in the matter.” Keliaya@anncaris:"True...I don't think he would've let any of us take care of him even if we wanted to.” Rianni@crystyl:"I just hope /he/'s willing say goodbye..." Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "Commander, I'm receiving instructions from the orbital station to beam personnel over.” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "Let's receive them.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma gets to work on the transport. Rianni@crystyl:"I'll get junior.” Keliaya@anncaris | Before long, several Felmorans beam in, wearing the same uniforms as the Black Wyvern's hibernating crew. Keliaya@anncaris:"Welcome to the Black Wyvern. You're aware of the situation here, I assume?” Keliaya@anncaris | One of the Felmorans nod and steps over, "We are. The crew is affected by a Basilisk and kept in hibernation, correct?” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "That's right. We have a method to treat them, but it involves wiping their entire memories.” Keliaya@anncaris | Felmoran: "We'll keep them in hibernation for now and notify our superiors. Thank you for returning our ship.” Rianni@crystyl returns with the baby in her arm. Keliaya@anncaris:"There is one more thing..." she looks over to Rianni. "We also found a baby on board.” Keliaya@anncaris | The Felmoran turns to Rianni, "It must be one of the crew's.” Rianni@crystyl:"We think so" she nods, speaking softly so as not to wake him, "We found him in a stasis chamber so he was spared the others' fate from the Basilisk.” Keliaya@anncaris | The Felmoran nods and steps over, "And you have been raising him all this time?” Rianni@crystyl nods, smiling down at him, "Not like I had any say in it... he just sort of... latched on to me. I guess because I was the one who was there to take him out of the chamber.” Keliaya@anncaris | Felmoran: "He's bonded with you, then? I can't take him off you, but I can contact an orphanage on the surface.” Rianni@crystyl:"Thank you, I would appreciate that.” Keliaya@anncaris | The Felmoran takes out a small device and passes it to Rianni, "Keep the child for now. We'll contact you once we've found an appropriate orphanage. Be patient, it may be difficult to find out - Keliaya@anncaris:- which one has the capacity to care for him with the evacuation plans underway.” Rianni@crystyl tilts her head, "Evacuation?” Keliaya@anncaris | The Felmoran nods, "It hasn't begun yet, but we still need to account for which orphanages are being assigned to which ships and how much personnel they have.” Rianni@crystyl:"But... why are you evacuating? Is this world under such threat of siege from the other Kingdoms now?” Keliaya@anncaris | Felmoran: "No, not from the other Kingdoms. From the Bies. Or at least that's what Emperor Mihal claims.” Rianni@crystyl glances to the others, "Well that's... unexpected. I guess we should complete this handover and join the rendezvous, don't want to keep the Captain waiting.” Keliaya@anncaris:"That must be what all those transports are for..." she nods to Rianni, "Yes, let's finish up here and head to the rendezvous. Since you'll be keeping the baby for a little longer, do you want to - Keliaya@anncaris:- go back to the Valley Forge, or take the baby planetside as well and wait for contact for an orphanage?” Rianni@crystyl:"I think it would be best to take him back to the Valley Forge for now. Once we have the lay of the land we can scope out orphanages, but I doubt we need to waste the General's time with this." Keliaya@anncaris nods and looks to Emma, "Let the Valley Forge know that Rianni will be heading back. You can go with her as well if you like." Rianni@crystyl | Emma nods, "Unless you think my presence at this meeting will be advantageous, I would rather not leave her to this burden all alone." Rianni@crystyl smiles at that from Emma. Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "As useful as your experience always is, I think we'll make do at this meeting without you. Let the Valley Forge know to expect the two of you, and the rest of us will proceed to the - Keliaya@anncaris - surface then.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma nods, "Will do" --- Keliaya@anncaris | Keelah and co. find themselves beaming outside a large, fancy structure. Keliaya@anncaris FX | https://i.imgur.com/S7rZZsc.jpg Keliaya@anncaris | Before long, Kelly and her team materialize nearby as well, minus Emma and Rianni. Keelah@crystyl smiles, "Good to see you ladies. I take it this means the Wyvern is now officially handed over?” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "The Wyvern is back in Vasomiri hands. Ensigns Ralde and Tierno returned to the ship, they have to hold on to the baby for a little longer until the Felmorans can find a suitable orphanage.” Keliaya@anncaris:"We've also learned something...interesting.” Keelah@crystyl turns, "Oh?” Keliaya@anncaris:"It seems the Cidrians are aware of the incoming Horde fleet and are preparing for an evacuation.” Keliaya@anncaris | Daian: "That explains the transports.” Keelah@crystyl perks a brow, "So that is why there is so much activity in orbit? Curious... this is not consistent with our predictions.” Keliaya@anncaris nods, "It's certainly unexpected. The Vasomiri don't seem convinced, and say it was the Cidrian Emperor, the one the other kingdoms call the Usurper, who-” Keliaya@anncaris FX | A horn sounds in the distance, turning everyone's attention towards the structure. From its main doors, Felmoran troops in the red-black-gold uniforms stream out, forming two rows. As they - Keliaya@anncaris:- finish arranging themselves, a figure emerges, riding a four legged horned creature with black fur, followed by two more soldiers. Keliaya@anncaris | Daian: "That must be the General. I suspect he has more answers for us.” Keelah@crystyl:"Quite a flourished entrance for a General…” Keliaya@anncaris | Daian: "From what I've heard of Felmoran leadership, this is tame in comparison…” Keelah@crystyl:"Almost makes one curious to meet the High Queen, just to see the show.” Keliaya@anncaris | The General approaches them on his steed with the two guards following behind. He dismounts once he reaches the group, handing the reins to one of the guards as he walks over. He appears quite - Keliaya@anncaris:- old for a Felmoran, with greying hair and an eyepatch over his right eye. He wears the same colours as his troops, but an armoured variant of it. A sword is sheathed behind his back, while a - Keliaya@anncaris:- pistol can be seen holstered on a belt across his hip. Even without the arms and armour, he is clearly larger and taller than the average Felmoran, a truly imposing figure.” Keelah@crystyl watches with admiration and respect for the details of his facade. Keliaya@anncaris | The General stops and observes the group before introducing himself, "I am General Velkar Rebranu of Cidria. You are the ones who brought us the Zimani ships and returned a missing Vasomiri one?” Keelah@crystyl nods, "I am Captain Keelah Se'Lai of the Valley Forge. It is a pleasure to meet you, General.” Keliaya@anncaris | Daian: "I am Captain Daian of the Guardians.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "I presume your peoples aren't accustomed to the cold here?” Keelah@crystyl:"That would be fair" she smiles. Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar chuckles, "I thought as much. Come. Let us talk inside, then.” Keliaya@anncaris | The General turns and begins leading the way into the structure. Keelah@crystyl:"Thank you, General" she looks to the others before falling in step behind him. Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "So, I'm told you come here to seek an alliance with us? We offer you resources, in exchange for your assistance?" Keelah@crystyl:"That is the basis of it, yes. We have operated similar alliances throughout our journey and found it to be a generally amenable arrangement.” Keelah@crystyl looks around, "Though I must admit, the situation here is not as we anticipated.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "Yes, many of our resources are being put into the evacuations. But anything we don't need, you are welcome to. We will only be taking the bare minimums with us.” Keelah@crystyl:"Is the conflict with the other Kingdoms faring so poorly?” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "No, not at all. We can just manage to match their numbers with the mercenary ships, but Mihal's tactical prowess is an advantage that more than makes up for numbers. The Czostak - Keliaya@anncaris:- Kingdoms can't keep up with the way he thinks. I can barely keep up, and I taught him!” Keelah@crystyl:"You don't say…” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "About the fact that I trained Mihal? It was a long time ago, and he's become his own general since then. A much freezing better one than me at that.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "But yes, we're not afraid of the other Kingdoms. Mihal could conquer them all if he wanted to. But that's not the point. The point is to save our people from the Bies.” Keelah@crystyl:"I see. It would seem our information the situation out here was... skewed.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "You didn't talk with the Czostak Kingdoms, did you?” Keelah@crystyl:"We have encountered a number of interested parties, as for where their allegiances lay... I take that information at face value. Regardless, this news of your evacuation changes things significantly.” Keliaya@anncaris | The group enters the building and are met with a large decorated interior fit for royalty, and quite possibly built for one. General Velkar doesn't look around, promptly leading the way - Keliaya@anncaris:- through the building, "How so? Were you hoping to help with a great glorious conquest, and not an evacuation?” Keelah@crystyl:"Not exactly... it is something of a long story.” Keliaya@anncaris | The General leads them into a large, banquet hall like room with a table containing a number of different dishes. He takes a seat at the head before motioning to the table, "Help yourselves, - Keliaya@anncaris:- and tell your story as we eat. I have plenty of time.” Keelah@crystyl:"You honour us with your hospitality, General. However first, I must ask one small indulgence; we have a... security practice that we must observe during first encounters such as this. Would you + Keelah@crystyl:+ object to a non-intrusive cursory scan?” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "Go ahead. I'm not a young soldier anymore, and I wear my injuries proudly, so I have nothing to hide.” Keelah@crystyl nods courteously, pulling out her tricorder and starting with the General, then anyone else in the area as she checks for influence. Keliaya@anncaris | She finds no sign of influence. Keelah@crystyl:"Good, you at least are clean" she acknowledges as she sits. Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar fills up a plate with food, looking at Keelah curiously, "Clean?” Keelah@crystyl:"You asked how the situation was different to our expectations. That is because we came here with the objective of convincing your people to evacuate before the Horde - the Bies - comes for you.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "So that's why you got the ships for us? To get our trust so we would listen to you?” Keelah@crystyl:"We did not go out of way to obtain such a means, but as we were heading this way anyhow it only made sense to bring them in.” Keelah@crystyl:"And the Black Wyvern, well, we wanted to bring that back to you before acting regarding the crew.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "I've been informed by the Vasomiri. I'm leaving the decision to them as it's their people, but I suspect they won't deal with them immediately with the evacuation underway.” Keelah@crystyl:"Understandable. They should be aware that we have a means of recovering the crew from the Basilisks effect, but whilst their lives will be salvaged, their minds would be left as blank slates.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "They've been told as much, and they'll take it into consideration. What about the evacuation? Now that we're already preparing for it, will you lend your assistance?” Keelah@crystyl:"I am curious to know more of how this evacuation will work, and how this all plays into the current conflict between the Kingdoms.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "The conflict and the evacuation are one and the same, in many ways. It will probably be more clear if I start from the beginning.” Keelah@crystyl leans back in her chair, "By all means.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "Mihal, back when he was still General Mihal, was part of an expedition along with his wife, Admiral Celestina. They learned about the Bies fleet on the expedition and returned to - Keliaya@anncaris:- convince Queen Cosmine of its danger. But you see, the expedition never actually encountered the Bies, otherwise they would not have been able to return and tell the tale.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "With only rumours and the word of outsiders, Queen Cosmine did not take Mihal's warning seriously. So he appealed to the High Queen. The High Queen ultimately decided that it would be - Keliaya@anncaris:- the choice of the individual Kingdoms what to do. She believes in the existance of the Bies, but believes that there has to be a way to fight them and refuse to abandon Czostak, along with the - Keliaya@anncaris:- other Czostak Kingdoms. Queen Cosmine was even more stubborn, seeing Mihal's appeal to the High Queen as an attempt to circumvent her own authority. She all but forced Mihal to lead a coup - Keliaya@anncaris:- against her. But it wasn't the end when Mihal took over, either.” Keelah@crystyl:"Oh?” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "You see, the terms of the Alliance sets a limit for each type of warship in every Kingdom. As you know, three of our kingdoms are colonies, ruling over one world each, while four rule - Keliaya@anncaris:- only parts of the homeworld of Czostak. At first, these terms were fair, because the homeworld had more population. But the population of the colonies grew, while Czostak's stayed fairly static.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "The Czostak Kingdoms have more than enough ships to evacuate their own Kingdoms. We don't. And when Mihal pleaded to the other Kingdoms for assistance, they called him a Usurper and - Keliaya@anncaris:- refused to acknowledge him. The ones that did said they weren't just going to run away, that they'd use their ships to put up a fight despite having no defenses against the Bies' powers.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "The point of this war was never conquest. We're fighting for our survival. The survival of all the colonies. Look at the battles. We aim to disable. To leave as many ships intact as - Keliaya@anncaris:- we can, because we know we need them. There's two objectives in this conflict- to unite all the colonies under one banner so Mihal can get them all to evacuate, and to capture enough ships to - Keliaya@anncaris:- facilitate this evacuation.” Keelah@crystyl:"And where exactly will this evacuation take you?” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "To the New World. That's another possibility the High Queen refuses to consider. The Czostak Kingdoms are too proud, too stuck in the past. If they did evacuate, they said they would - Keliaya@anncaris:- never ask the Arshai for help. Which means going further, and that means their ships need to carry more supplies and less people. They'd rather leave their own people to die than seek aid from an - Keliaya@anncaris:- old enemy.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "I fought in the Arshai War. I lost many good soldiers to them. Some of them friends. But I'm willing to put past differences aside if it means saving my people.” Keelah@crystyl hrms, "An interesting development indeed. But I must ask... how sure can you be in this Mihal's word; that their expedition returned free of Horde influence?” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "I...suppose I can't be sure. Mihal was my protege. I trust him implicitly. But that check you did on us...we don't have it. I can't be sure he's not being influenced by the Bies.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "But he's the one trying to save us from the Bies. He can't be working for them, can he?” Keelah@crystyl:"We have to be certain" she leans in, "i'll be honest with you, General; Mihal's actions bear an uncanny resemblence to those we have witnessed in influenced leaders before.” Keelah@crystyl:"Specifically, the Arshai..." Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "The Arshai have already fallen under the Bies' influence?” Keelah@crystyl:"They sent out an expedition to investigate rumours of the Horde. When it returned, that leader convinced the civil government that they had to prepare to evacuate Vue En and travel corewards to buy + Keelah@crystyl:+ themselves time. Their plan was to launch an assault on their original homeworld and retake it, even if it meant risking war with Starfleet in the process.” Keelah@crystyl:"Fortunately, we were able to identify the influence there and cleanse it. Once Vora realized what had transpired, she promptly saw the error of her ways and overturned the decision. The Arshai are + Keelah@crystyl:+ now integral members of a Coalition of species forming a united front against the Horde.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "I will admit, Mihal's tactics have always been unusual, but he has been more...rash of late. What happened to the Arshai leader, it is certainly possible that the same has affected ours.” Keelah@crystyl:"We need to know either way. If Mihal is clean of influence, we must work with you to bring aid in to assist your evacuation, and persuade the other Kingdoms. If he is not clean, we must remedy it.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar nods, "You have proven valuable and trustworthy so far. I will seek an audience with Mihal for you, let him know that you are here to help. I am sure he will be willing to meet you once - Keliaya@anncaris:- I tell him that you have an alliance with the Arshai.” Keliaya@anncaris | Daian: "Do not tell him that he may be under the Horde's influence. Those under their influence will doubt it at first. Leave that part to us.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "As you insist. In the meantime, you are welcome to enjoy the Vasomiri hospitality here. Once he has agreed to meet with you, I will give you his coordinates.” Keelah@crystyl:"I would like to make the most of our time here. Is there anything we can do to help with the evacuation plans, or uniting the other Kingdoms?” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "Because we forced the Vasomiri into surrender, there are still some here who see us as invaders, who do not believe the evacuation is necessary and even spread rumours about some - Keliaya@anncaris:- scheme or another behind it. If there is anything you can do to convince the Vasomiri populace, that will be helpful. I'm afraid here is little to be done about the other Kingdoms from here, but - Keliaya@anncaris:- we have never attempted an evacuation of this scale before, and we would be open to advice on that front as well.” Keliaya@anncaris | Daian: "The Guardians have assisted many worlds with evacuation. We can help with that." Keelah@crystyl:"There's also Devoted Responder. Though I am reluctant to summon allies into a hostile environment prematurely.” Keelah@crystyl:"Perhaps we can try other channels to reach the remaining Kingdoms and the High Queen to convince them of the need.” Keliaya@anncaris | Daian: "Perhaps we could notify it, but ask it to stand by while we deal with the civil war.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "We'll get a message to it as soon as we can.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "Convincing the High Queen will be more difficult. I suggest you speak with Mihal first. Help him if you need, or enlist his help. He has more mind for politics than I.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "That is certainly our priority action here. What about your general population here? Evacuation can incite panic and strife. We have a substantial medical staff we can put at your disposal.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar nods, "That will be of assistance, yes. There is already some unrest, and the evacuation has not even begun.” Keelah@crystyl:"Our security forces may be able to assist, but it is a delicate matter and throwing external security into the mix improperly could do more harm than good.” Keelah@crystyl:"However, reinforcing evacuation or rationing points - that kind of thing - may help to free up your people to act where needed.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "I am already having to throw Cidrian troops into the mix, and we are not welcome in many parts of the planet. I'm more worried about whether your people can handle it, being so...small.” Keelah@crystyl chuckles, "I know one particularly petite Arena champion who would relish the chance to take that as a challenge.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "If your people are up for it, we could use more more security so I can free up more of my own people for the evacuation preparation. The Vasomiri haven't settled down from the war yet - Keliaya@anncaris:- and we're already asking them to evacuate, so you can imagine things are getting heated in some parts of the Kingdom.” Keelah@crystyl:"We'll help where we can, of course. We just have to make sure our presence is selective enough not to make things worse.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "And we appreciate everything you can do. I'll have my subordinates liaise with yours on the details of our arrangements.” Keelah@crystyl:"Good. Meanwhile, do you think it will take long to reach out to Mihal?” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "He wasn't in the middle of a battle last I heard, so it shouldn't take too long. I will try to get in contact with him later today.” Keelah@crystyl:"Then I eagerly await news on that front. But for now I feel we've already taken too much of your time.” Keliaya@anncaris | Velkar: "I will let you know once I have spoken with Mihal. Until then, we welcome any help you can provide, and you are welcome to anything you need from us as well."

View Act II

NPC@annpc#557 FX | A few hours after the meeting with the General, Rianni and Emma receive word from the Vasomiri of an orphanage that can take the baby off their hands. They are given the coordinates and - NPC@annpc#557 - find themselves beaming down to an unspectacular residential area of the planet, far from as elegant as where the General had taken up residence. Rianni@crystyl looks around, trying to hold the baby steady from squirming after the transport, turning to Emma, "Is this definitely the right place?" Rianni@crystyl | Emma checks and nods, "Yep, no doubt about it. This is the place. Come on already!” Rianni@crystyl hrms unconvincingly as she follows Emma to the supposed Orphanage. Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "Hey, behave with that! You're not getting out of this and keeping him by casting dispersions on the place who will take him!” Rianni@crystyl flusters, "I, what? No! It's just... not what I expected is all…” Rianni@crystyl | Emma smirks, "Uh-huh…” NPC@annpc#557 | A door opens and a Felmoran female steps out towards the two. NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "You must be the two foreigners we were told to expect with the child. Come.” Rianni@crystyl:"Yes, thank you" she smiles politely and follows the woman in. NPC@annpc#557 | The area inside has the layout of a living room, but is dark, with no lights on an only the illumination coming in from the doors and windows. As they step inside, there is the sound of a - NPC@annpc#557 - mechanical whir as something comes online, and then the baby begins to cry. The room darkens even more as a large shadow obscures the light from the door behind them, and to their sides two - NPC@annpc#557:- Felmorans appear, one male from a room and another female descending a staircase, each holding a pistol. NPC@annpc#557 | The female Felmoran who led them in turns to them, "Let's not do anything hasty here. I don't want to hurt you.” Rianni@crystyl holds the baby tighter to herself, tensing and backing up a little, "What is this? What's going on?” Rianni@crystyl | Emma raises her hands, "Easy now, we're not looking for any trouble. Obviously we have the wrong the place, we'll just get out of your way and nobody needs to worry about it…” NPC@annpc#557 | Female Felmoran: "Oh no, you have the right place. I had my friends in the Vasomiri military feed you these coordinates. You are exactly where I want you. And that noise you heard- that was - NPC@annpc#557:- the signal jammer starting up. Don't try to call for help or extraction, no one's going to hear you or beam you out. If you cooperate, we'll let you leave unharmed, and give you the location of - NPC@annpc#557:- the actual orphanage.” Rianni@crystyl tries to calm the baby. Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "We don't want any trouble. What is it you want with us?” Rianni@crystyl:rolls 57 (1-100) NPC@annpc#557 | Rianni manages to stop the baby from crying, though he still seems visibly frightened by the imposing Felmoran strangers. Rianni@crystyl continues her efforts to keep him calm NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran Female: "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Ivana, leader of this cell of the Vasomiri Resistance. We know your people are working with the Cidrians and that you've been to the - NPC@annpc#557:- Nikasi Palace and met with General Velkar. What I want is simple- everything you know about the Cidrians' plans for us.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma eyerolls, "You think you're going to get that from us? You see this?" she points to her pip, "Know what that means? Ensign. Low ranking, bottom of the ladder. You think they'd tell /us/ + Rianni@crystyl:+ anything of current mission parameters? Our entire daily work for the last few weeks has been caring for that damned baby!” Rianni@crystyl recoils a little at Emma's tone, but relaxes at a comforting hand from Emma on her own, apologizing silently. NPC@annpc#557:rolls 66 (1-100) NPC@annpc#557 | The baby doesn't cry again from Emma's tone. He must be getting familiar enough with her to not be scared of her. Rianni@crystyl reinforces, softly, "It is true. I only graduated recently from the academy. We are low ranking officers from a ship with over 1000 personnel. We don't know anything. Please, we are just trying to + Rianni@crystyl:+ look after the baby.” NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "You don't know anything at all? You must know /something/ from your people working with the Cidrians. What they are having you do, why they are rounding everyone up to supposedly - NPC@annpc#557:- evacuate from an enemy from old rumours and legends.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma shrugs, "I don't know what else to say. It's a common thing for the Captain to meet with local leadership we meet a new people. If I had to guess, I'd say your - General was it? - wanted to + Rianni@crystyl:+ know how we came to be flying into this system in control of a Vasomiri ship.” NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana scoffs, "He is not /our/ general. He is the Usurper's general. And why was it you came to be flying one of our ships?” Rianni@crystyl:"It was adrift when it came into our sensor range on our way here. Fell foul of something they called a Basilisk, but he-" she looks to the baby "-was the only survivor” NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "I have heard of Basilisks from the stories. But unlike the Bies, they are a known threat. So you came here simply to return the ship and the child to their home?" Rianni@crystyl | Emma shrugs, "Far as I know. So will you please now just let us do what we came here to do and find this baby a home? If we take too long then they will start asking questions. It will only be a + Rianni@crystyl:+ matter of time before people come looking for us, and I'm sure none of us want that.” NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana picks up a large Felmoran PADD and hands it to Emma, "Very well. But I will give you a warning to pass to your superiors. If you continue working with the Cidrians, the Resistance - NPC@annpc#557:- /will/ consider you as an enemy. We will not target your people specifically, but Fates help you should you come between us and the liberation of our home.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma takes the PADD with a firm grip, "I will pass on the message.” Rianni@crystyl:"So... can we go find our Orphanage now? NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "The pad should contain the location of an orphage who can accomodate the child. Whatever comes to pass between our peoples from here on, you have my thanks for bringing him back to us.” Rianni@crystyl:"And I guess you have mine for not hurting him" she looks to Emma, "Come on, let's get out of here" she casts a wary glance around the others before stepping back towards the door. NPC@annpc#557 | The large Felmoran blocking the door steps aside, letting them exit. Rianni@crystyl turns and exits, while Emma continues to watch them carefully and back away protectively. NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran blocking the door enters, and the rest stay inside, not following them out or threatening them. Rianni@crystyl | Emma holds tightly onto Rianni as they briskly walk away, "Are you ok?” Rianni@crystyl nods, "We're fine. We need to report this to the Captain." Rianni@crystyl | Emma steadies her, "Easy. They likely have eyes on us. Let's just... take it nice and slow, go find then Orphanage first. Then make our way back nice and casual like.” Rianni@crystyl nods again, "Alright, lead the way." NPC@annpc#557 | After walking through the city, they reach the location of the Orphanage in a less sketchier part of town. Unlike the previous neighbourhood, there is activity on the streets, and as they near - NPC@annpc#557 - the building that is the Orphanage, they can hear the sounds of children emanating from beyond its walls. Rianni@crystyl:"That sounds a little more reassuring.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma smiles, leading the way, "No arguments from me.” Rianni@crystyl:"I told you that last place was wrong and it wasn't just me looking for excuses to keep him.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma eyerolls, "You're never going to let that one go are you.” Rianni@crystyl pokes her tongue out, drawing a chuckle from Emma. NPC@annpc#557 | The Orphanage door opens and another Felmoran female peers out, this one older looking with black hair that has begun to grey slightly. Rianni@crystyl holds an overly suspicious gaze, hanging back behind Emma. Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "Um, hi... this is... the Orphanage, yes?” NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "Yes, you are..." her gaze turns to Rianni and the baby, "Oh, you have a child?” Rianni@crystyl nods. Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "I... take it we are not expected this time?” NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran steps back and opens the door wide, "We are here to provide a place to any children who need it, and fortunately we still have space to accomodate a few more. It's just that I was - NPC@annpc#557 - not expecting foreigners to deliver a child to us.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma takes Rianni's hand with a reassuring squeeze, "That's a long story.” Rianni@crystyl is still noticibly trembling to any with an observant eye, muttering, "Longer than it should've been..." NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran leads them inside to a larger living/waiting room area that is much better lit and maintained. Two children peering over the railing from the floor above shows that this is - NPC@annpc#557 - certainly a real orphanage. One of the Felmoran children shouts something before running down a hall out of view.” NPC@annpc#557 | Meanwhile, the old Felmoran woman looks to Rianni, "Is there something wrong?” Rianni@crystyl shakes her head, focusing on supporting the baby. Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "We were directed by the General's office to find a home for this baby who we recovered from a ship. They were supposed to communicate this with you but apparently that message was diverted + Rianni@crystyl + to some resistance cell. They tried to harass us for information.” NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "Ah yes, the Resistance. Always out causing trouble. Can't blame them really, people don't usually take kindly to being conquered and forced out of their homes. If I were three - NPC@annpc#557 - centuries younger, I'd probably have joined them myself. But you know what they say- with age comes wisdom. I don't like the Cidrians, and I don't know what they're playing at with that - NPC@annpc#557:- evacuation of theirs, but I know the King surrendered for a reason, and that's because our troops aren't a match for theirs.” NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "Things aren't too bad under their rule yet, but if the Resistance keeps sabotaging whatever the Cidrians are trying to do here, that'll just cause them to crack down hard. And it'll - NPC@annpc#557:- come down on all of us, not just the ones out there shutting down generators and planting bombs.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "Our Captain is investigating all of that. I don't really know what's going on yet, but I get the distinct impression that there's a lot of misunderstanding at play here. But anyway, we're + Rianni@crystyl:+ here for junior.” NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran nods, "Right. The little one. You're sure he's got no parent who can raise him?" Rianni@crystyl:"His parents were on the crew of the ship we found. Whilst they are not technically dead, they fell foul of a Basilisk and - even if we are able to save them now - their minds will be left as blank + Rianni@crystyl:+ slates from the process so they won't be able to care for him. They won't even be able to care for themselves.” NPC@annpc#557 | Rianni and Emma notices that the child who ran off earlier has called a number of other children over, who are curiously observing the two alien visitors to their orphanage. NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "That's very unfortunate. How long have you been taking care of him?" Rianni@crystyl thinks a moment, "Probably a few weeks, give or take. Not sure how that translates in context…” NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "Not sure what a 'week' is. We mostly measure time by the Brightening cycle and by Czostak years, neither of which have the most bearing here, but we're used to our local cycles - NPC@annpc#557:- being a little off-track. Even the Cidrians use their local years regularly, even though it doesn't make much of a difference for them.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "Well a week is 7 days by the Federation calendar. A day is 26 hours, and an hour is 60 minutes. We've been talking for around 15 minutes so that should give you an idea how long our day is + Rianni@crystyl:+ next to your brightening cycle.” Rianni@crystyl meanwhile looks around at the interest from all the children with a smile. Clearly relaxing more now. NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran orphanage keeper thinks for a moment before nodding, "I think a week is a little under half a Brightening. The Brightening cycle is the orbit of Czostak, the moon our people came - NPC@annpc#557:- from, around the gas giant Nietak. We call it the Brightening because we only get sunlight in the times when Nietak isn't between Czostak and the sun. And the Shadow side locked with Nietak only - NPC@annpc#557:- gets a little bit of sun in the time in-between. But anyways, you didn't come here for an astronomy class. If you've been raising the little one for more than a Brightening, he must've formed a - NPC@annpc#557:- bond with one of you.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma glances to Rianni with a smirk, "No kidding.” Rianni@crystyl smiles and nods, "Yes, he has been quite insistent on my companionship since I pulled him from the stasis chamber.” NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran smiles back, "Lucky you. Or unlucky you, depending on how much you like taking care of infants…” Rianni@crystyl refrains from answering one way or the other, "It was... unexpected. But what does this bond mean? Is he going to be able to bond with someone new?” Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "In other words: Is she stuck with a baby now?" she smiles a little. NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran chuckles, "No, don't worry, you're not stuck with him. It might take a bit for him to adjust, depending on the specific baby, but they can always bond with someone new. Whole - NPC@annpc#557:- reason they bond so easily even with strangers like you is because Czostak was dangerous, and it's a good mechanism for infants to survive if their birth parents got eaten by something. There's - NPC@annpc#557:- even instances of babies bonding with wild beasts, like the old hero Grutek who was supposedly raised by a Shadow Hound.” Rianni@crystyl smiles, "Sounds like an ancient tale from my homeworld.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "So you'll be able to help him then?” NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran nods and turns to lead the way further into the orphanage, "Come with me.” Rianni@crystyl & Emma follow. NPC@annpc#557 | She throws a look at the children watching above, "Everyone stay away from the new child! Unless you want to take care of him until he grows up." NPC@annpc#557 | The orphanage keeper leads them into a small bedroom, "You could get rid of a bond by just leaving the baby and running, but he'll cry nonstop for hours and I'll have to deal with it. Best way - NPC@annpc#557 - to do it is to lull the baby to sleep and sneak away quietly. Either way he'll need time to adjust and form a new bond, but it's easier if he wakes up and sees a new face.” Rianni@crystyl:"If you're sure that is best. I don't want him to suffer more than he already has.” NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "It's the best way there is. Say your farewells and get him to sleep tight, then sneak off. Don't worry, once he's formed a new bond, he'll still recognize you, so you can come and - NPC@annpc#557:- visit if you like. Just not right away, as he'll need time to form a new bond first.” Rianni@crystyl smiles, "That would be nice if circumstances permit it. Very well" she sits on the bed, starting to relax and make him comfortable.” Rianni@crystyl sits down. NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran steps out, and after a few minutes, Rianni manages to get the baby to relax and settle down in the new environment. Rianni@crystyl emerges a few minutes later, looking a bit lost now she suddenly has her arms back to herself. Rianni@crystyl | Emma smiles to see her, getting up and pulling her into a tight embrace, "It's for the best.” Rianni@crystyl nods, holding onto her tightly. NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran orphanage keeper observes with a smile before saying, "I'll need to be there when he wakes up. Is there anything else I should know?” Rianni@crystyl hands her a PADD, "I've kept a log of his eating habits. We know from a Felmoran doctor that it is not optimal but was the best we could do from the resources on his ship. There is also what little + Rianni@crystyl:+ information we have about about the ship and crew, should his new family wish to keep it as a record of his birth family.” NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran takes the PADD and nods, "Thank you. We'll enter it into the records. And we'll take good care of him, don't you worry.” Rianni@crystyl:"Oh, and one more thing if I may..." she reaches up and unclips one of her earrings, "I doubt it's his style, but since the moment I first held him he has been particularly fascinated with it. I + Rianni@crystyl:+ would like for him to have it.” NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran chuckles and takes the earring as well, "I'll make sure he has it as a momento of you. Thank you for taking care of him all this time.” Rianni@crystyl smiles, "I'm just glad it worked out. Now, we should go and leave you to your duties. Thank you again for taking him in.” NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran orphanage keeper smiles back before turning to head into the room the baby was left in. NPC@annpc#557 | Meanwhile, some of the children upstairs have lost interest, but a few are still observing the two. Rianni@crystyl shares a smile with Emma before the pair leave. She gives a cheery wave to the children watching as they head out. Rianni@crystyl takes a deep breath as they step outside and leave the baby behind. Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "You doing ok Ri?” Rianni@crystyl turns to her with a surprisingly confident smile, "I really am, don't worry.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma gives her a disbelieving look. Rianni@crystyl smiles, "Honestly!” Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "You're not, like, feeling withdrawals from him. No regrets. No desire to run back in there and sweep him up into your arms?” Rianni@crystyl gives an exaggerated hrm, "...nope!” Rianni@crystyl | Emma frowns, "But...?” Rianni@crystyl chuckles, "You can thank our initial welcoming committee for that.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma: "Oh?” Rianni@crystyl nods, "Emma, I've faced down a warp core breach, being abandoned in an escape pod, spent a year watching someone else live my life, inflitrated a Terran Empire crew, had Primevals and beings from + Rianni@crystyl:+ whole other dimensions probe around in my head..." shakes her head, "...but never have I felt so scared and vulnerable as I did back there because I had Junior bonded with me. I have /no/ desire to+ Rianni@crystyl:+ feel that weakness ever again!” Rianni@crystyl | Emma considers her with wide eyes, "...seriously?” Rianni@crystyl:"Don't get me wrong now, it was... surprisingly rewarding. Caring for him and all, but yes I'm serious. I hated feeling weak and vulnerable like that.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma smiles, hugging her gently as they walk off. Though she gives an awkward frowned look at Rianni's forehead. Rianni@crystyl 's brow furrows with confusion, "What are you doing...?” Rianni@crystyl | Emma turns a natural gaze back to her with a smirk, "Checking for ridges. Because I swear sometimes you're part Klingon. My little pink-skinned warrior!" she kisses her on the cheek affectionately+ Rianni@crystyl:+ before the pair start chuckling as they walk off. NPC@annpc#557 | As they walk, Rianni notices a plume of smoke rising in the distance... Rianni@crystyl looks up, "Hey, look at that.” Rianni@crystyl | Emma looks where indicated, "Smoke? Doesn't seem right.” Rianni@crystyl taps her combadge "Tierno to Valley Forge” NPC@annpc#557 <C - Eva> Valley Forge here. What is it, Ensign? Rianni@crystyl:<C> Lieutenant, we can see smoke a short distance from our current position. Is there anything unusual on sensors? NPC@annpc#557:<C - Eva> Smoke? I'm checking now...oh, that's not good. Rianni@crystyl:<C> What's not good...? NPC@annpc#557:<C - Eva> It's the General's palace. Someone's set off a bomb. --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 FX | Back on the Valley Forge, Keelah's ready room doorbell sounds... Keelah@crystyl glances up from her screen, "Come.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht steps inside, "Captain. There has been a development.” Keelah@crystyl:"Oh?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "A bomb has gone off in the palace where General Velkar was station. The General has been wounded and taken to a medical facility.” Keelah@crystyl:"A bomb? The situation here is far more volatile than we realized…” Keelah@crystyl:"What of our people on the surface, were any in the vicinity?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "Fortunately not. The bomb appears to have been placed to specifically target General Velkar. Two Cidrian soldiers were killed in the explosion, with three other soldiers and - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - one servant wounded. A group calling themselves the Vasomiri Resistance have claimed responsibility, stating this to be a message to the Cidrians to show that they are not welcome." Keelah@crystyl:"We should do what we can to assist local authorities in dealing with casualties." Keelah@crystyl | The comm panel buzzes and TQ's voice calls through, "Captain, apologies for the interruption. But Ensign's Ralde and Tierno just reported in from the surface and are insisting on an urgent debrief+ Keelah@crystyl:+ they said may be pertinent.” Keelah@crystyl:<C> Thank you Tee, have them report straight to my ready room. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht glances to Keelah, curiously, then to the door to await the two. Keelah@crystyl looks to Vrolmacht, "Weren't they just taking the infant to an Orphanage? What possible urgency could arise from that.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "I can think of several ways urgency may arise, but not something pertinent to the current situation with the palace bombing…” Keelah@crystyl | The door chimes and the pair enter when summoned. Keelah@crystyl:"Ladies. You have something to report?” Keelah@crystyl | Emma nods, "Yes Captain, here" she hands Keelah the PADD she was give.” Keelah@crystyl | Emma: "They intercepted us and tried to get information from us. When we convinced them we had none to give, they insisted we bring this warning to you.” Keelah@crystyl:"I see..." she shows the PADD to Vrolmacht, "What do you think, Commander?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht views the PADD as he asks, "Intercepted? At the Orphanage?” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni shakes her head, "No Sir. The coordinates we were given for the Orphanage were false. They were planted by resistance operatives in the General's office to have us sent to their safehouse.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "Perhaps these operatives were also how they managed to plant a bomb so close to the General." He looks to Keelah, "General Velkar has not yet presented us the coordinates to find - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- his Emperor, and we may still need his help to seek an audience. However, with this warning, any personnel we sent to aid him, medical or security, may be placed in harm's way.” Keelah@crystyl:"Perhaps those around him can be convinced that it would be safest for the General to be transferred to the Valley Forge for treatment.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods, "That is a possibility, and even if the Resistance were to target us, they will be unable to sneak operatives on board the Valley Forge, nor do I suspect they possess the means - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- to attack the ship directly.” Keelah@crystyl:"As for this resistance group... we are going to need to find a way to reach out to them as well aren't we.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "That would seem to be the ideal solution. To the Resistance, the General and his troopers are invaders occupying their land. I believe that they think they are fighting for their - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- freedom and not beyond reason if we can make them understand the greater problem with the inbound Horde fleet.” Keelah@crystyl | Emma nods, "They seemed convinced that the evacuation was a false story and did not believe what they were being told about the Horde.” Keelah@crystyl hrms, "Commander, does that PADD give any indication of how to contact them?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht shakes his head, "We may be able to visit this safehouse the Ensigns were lured to, but I suspect they will have moved on from it after letting the two leave with knowledge of its - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- location.” Keelah@crystyl | Emma looks over, "Really, nothing? But... didn't they insist that we tell them if we learn any truth? How did they expect us to do that...?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "I suspect they do not trust us with their location, especially seeing this warning. Perhaps Lar may be able to analyze the PADD more closely and find some channel of communication, - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- though.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "Get him right on it. We need to nip this conflict in the bud before it goes any further.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods, "I will pass the PADD on to him. Is there anything else, Captain?” Keelah@crystyl turns to the Ensigns, "Rianni, up to revisting that safehouse with a team?” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni gives a firm nod, "Of course, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"Very good" turning to Vrolmacht, "Go with her and see what you can find there. Emma, I need your expertise on the bridge to help locate this resistance.” Keelah@crystyl | Emma nods, "No problem Captain.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "Yes Captain," He turns to head out. Keelah@crystyl | Rianni and Emma fall in behind him. --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 FX | Vrolmacht, Rianni and several security officers beam down to the Resistance safehouse where Rianni and Emma was lured to the first time. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht looks around the courtyard, then to Rianni, "Which entrance was it you went into?” Rianni@crystyl looks around and points out the doorway across the street, "That's the place.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht makes for the door, looking around carefully but seeing no sign of danger. As he walks up to the door, it does not open, and there is a small panel beside it that indicates it is - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- locked. He taps the panel, ringing a doorbell, but no one answers. Rianni@crystyl stands ready behind him, watching the streets with their escort. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | There is no visible activity on the street, but one of the security crewmen checks with a tricorder before quietly saying, "One Felmoran lifesign on the fourth storey balcony of the building - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- to our right. Whole area seems to be empty except for them.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht looks to Rianni, "Was it this quiet when you came here as well?" Rianni@crystyl shakes her head, "It felt off before, but nothing like this. At this point I'd go so far as to say that the resistance has this whole area in their pocket.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods, "That is possible. This area seems abandoned except the one lifesign. They are most likely with the Resistance.” Rianni@crystyl:"Do you want us to intercept, or feign ignorance for now and draw them out?" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "Let's feign ignorance for now. We don't want to drive them off, or worse, scare the Resistance into attacking." He nods to one of the security personnel, "Petty Officer, get this - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- door open.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Security PO steps over and overrides the lock, causing the door to swing open and reveal the same interior Rianni had seen earlier. Vrolmacht steps in first, and this time there are no - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- armed Felmorans who appear. Rianni@crystyl:"Before there was a comms jamming device here, and the room kept in darkness. If they had that tech in here, they may have more. And worse" she whips out a tricorder and begins sweeping the place. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The security officers do the same, but their scans reveal no technology beyond the basics- some PADDs, replicators and day to day items. Rianni@crystyl once satisfied of nothing untoward, moves to start perusing the PADD's for detail the old fashioned way. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Rianni finds and collects the PADDs, but they contain nothing more than unspectacular information- news articles and videos, grocery lists and so on, nothing related to the Resistance at all. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Meanwhile, the crewman monitors his tricorder, "Still no change on the Felmoran lifesign's position. Rianni@crystyl takes it all anyway, just in case. Even knowing where the resistance buys their groceries could be useful at this point. Rianni@crystyl:"Presumably it's a post to watch this place. Likely specifically for our return after our earlier encounter.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods, looking to Rianni, "Have you found any means to contact them?” Rianni@crystyl shakes her head, "Nothing yet, Sir" while rummaging around the room. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "We may have to intercept their operative watching us here. They may be the best lead.” Rianni@crystyl:"Without the jamming equipment in here we could make a site to site transport to put us behind his field of vision while he thinks we're still in here. Maybe split the team and maintain a presence + Rianni@crystyl:+ here for him to keep watching.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods, "A good plan, Ensign. Crewman, Petty Officer, remain here and keep searching the building. The Ensign and I will attempt to beam in behind the suspected operative.” Rianni@crystyl readies her phaser and joins Vrolmacht for the beamout. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht taps his combadge and relays the instructions for the beamout before drawing his own phaser and standing ready. Soon, the two disappear into transporter beams and appear in the room - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- behind the balcony where a Felmoran man is crouched wearing some form of high-tech goggles, with a computer open beside him. Rianni@crystyl looks to her superior's lead. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht raises his pistol and slowly steps up to the Felmoran, "Don't be alarmed. We are not here to harm you. We only wish to-” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | He is cut off as the Felmoran begins to disappear into a transporter beam... Rianni@crystyl taps her combadge and requests VF to intercept the transport beam before the cycle complete. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The VF manages to intercept the transport. Rianni@crystyl:"We've got him Commander.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods, "Excellent quick thinking, Ensign." He takes out a tricorder, scanning the computer next to the Felmoran before stepping over to pick it up. "We will do a quick search of this - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- building to see if there is anything else the operative may have left behind, then return to the Valley Forge to speak with him.” Rianni@crystyl:"Do you want the others to join us from the safehouse or continue searching there?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "Continue searching there, just in the off chance the Resistance left something behind.” Rianni@crystyl nods, "Understood" tapping her combadge and updating the team they left behind while she begins to search this room. --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | After the confiscated materials from the Resistance safehouse are handed to Lar, Rianni and Vrolmacht return to the VF to visit their prisoner in the brig... Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran male is dressed in civilian clothes and sits on the edge of the brig's bed. Rianni@crystyl looks to Vrolmachts lead again, not wanting to overstep her mark and remind herself she's not the Security Chief here. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht looks to Rianni, "Ensign, you have interacted with them before, yes?” Rianni@crystyl:"If you count standing in the corner like a frightened targ coddling it's pup for a minutes, sure.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "That is...unlike you.” Rianni@crystyl:"Hey! I was protecting the infant…” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods and smiles, "You have gotten close to the infant, haven't you?” Rianni@crystyl:"Nu-uh, I was just the victim of its alien biology. It did that whole bonding thing with me and, like, hypnotized me into mothering it is all. The Orphanage lady said so *cough* just don't ask + Rianni@crystyl:+ her about it *cough*" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht chuckles, "I will take the lead, then. Ask whatever you believe may be pertinent- you have met the Resistance briefly before, after all.” Rianni@crystyl nods, "Understood, Sir.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht steps forward to the Felmoran's cell, "We will not hold you here for longer than we need to. We do not seek to make an enemy of you. We want only to get into contact with them.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran looks up, "And why would you want to do that? So you can sell our location to the Cidrians?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "We are not the Cidrians' mercenaries.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "We know you've spoken with the General personally and brought the Cidrians multiple ships.” Rianni@crystyl:"We also brought one of your own ships back to you including it's entire crew, lest you forget.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "We will not betray your location to the Cidrians. We wish only to talk.” Rianni@crystyl:"And do you really think mercenaries would go to the trouble of rehousing one infant?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "I suppose not. Well, we are talking now, aren't we?” Rianni@crystyl:"You expect us to believe that you speak for the entire resistance?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran chuckles, "No one speaks for the entire Resistance. We're not an army. We're just people who have taken up the fight to liberate our homes.” Rianni@crystyl:"Even a cell structured resistance group needs coordination.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "We have coordination. Leaders for each cell. But there is no overall leader, no face of the Resistance. That way, we can't be easily destroyed, while we can target the Cidrian - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- leadership. Sow enough chaos that they are forced to leave us alone.” Rianni@crystyl:"Ok, let me rephrase then. You expect us to believe that leader of a cell capable of infiltrating the General's office and diverting us earlier, has nothing better to do hours after bombing the + Rianni@crystyl:+ palace but to watch a backstreet safehouse on the off chance someone turns up there?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "You have me. I'm not a cell leader either. But do you expect /I/ would just give you the location of one?” Rianni@crystyl:"I don't know if you were one of the ones hiding in the shadows when your people had me in that safehouse earlier or not. But if you were, you would recall that the one who harassed us insisted that + Rianni@crystyl:+ we get in touch if anything comes to light. So here we are, getting in touch.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran considers for a moment before nodding, "And what has come to light? Make it good enough, and I will consider putting you in touch.” Rianni@crystyl:"Sorry, but no. The conduct of you and your cell has earned you nothing but mistrust. The price you pay for your underhanded methods in threatening infants... of your own people at that!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "We never meant to threaten you. It was merely the best opportunity we had to gather information. You were an unknown factor working with the Cidrians, and redirecting you with the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- infant was the easiest way of discreetly contacting you. But we have to take precautions. We didn't know how loyal you would be to the Cidrians. Or how closely tied to them you are now.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "If we meant to harm you and the child, we wouldn't have given you the location of the orphanage. We operate this way because we /have/ to. What do you think will happen to us if any - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- of us were captured by the Cidrians? You think they would just let us sit in a comfortable cell like this?” Rianni@crystyl:"What I think is irrelevant. You chose to do things your way, I can respect that. But now we are doing things our way, so it is time to reciprocate" she takes a step closer, staring down the prisoner. Rianni@crystyl: "You claim to be acting in the best interests of your people. Sometimes doing so requires taking risks, and now is one of those times.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran considers for a moment before nodding, "Very well. I will put you in contact with Ivana. I assume you brought my computer from the apartment?” Rianni@crystyl looks to Vrolmacht. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "We did. But we cannot give it to-” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "I know. We don't take precautions ourselves and expect you to have none. Give me one of your pads. I will provide a comm frequency for you to contact through my computer. Tell - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- them Vodinev gave you permission to set up a meeting with Ivana.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht gives Rianni a nod, "Give him a PADD, Ensign.” Rianni@crystyl nods, retrieving one from the security desk and returning to lower the forcefield. Rianni@crystyl taps the control to drop the barrier and holds out the PADD for him. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran stands and steps over, taking the PADD and tapping on it for a few moments, then handing it back with the frequency on it. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran: "Remember, use my computer and only mine. If they detect that you are trying to contact them from your ship, they may change the frequency. Then your only hope of getting into - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- contact with Ivana would be to release me so I can set up a meeting in-person, and I suspect you wouldn't like to risk that.” Rianni@crystyl looks up, not appearing intimidated by his frame in the slightest, "Thank you" she steps back, reinitializing the forcefield without taking her eyes off him. Rianni@crystyl:"You should make yourself comfortable until such time that we have verified this contact you gave us.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran nods and sits back down, "I can be patient." Rianni@crystyl simply gives a curt nod and turns to Vrolmacht, holding the PADD out to him. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht views the PADD and nods as well, "Retrieve the computer. I will inform the Captain.” Rianni@crystyl nods and heads out with him. --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | A few minutes later, Vrolmacht and Rianni rings the doorbell to Keelah's ready room. Keelah@crystyl:"Come in.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The two step inside and Vrolmacht reports: "The Resistance operative we intercepted has provided a means of contact with one of their cell leaders.” Keelah@crystyl:"Excellent. Has Lar made any progress?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "The Felmoran PADDs do not appear to have any information encrypted into them, but he has given us complete access to the computer that we will need to use to contact the Resistance." Keelah@crystyl:"We'll take all we can get" she smiles, watching as Rianni sets the computer down, "Any recommendations for how to proceed?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "I suspect they will ask to see you personally. As they are aware that we have spoken to the General, it would be safe to presume that they are also aware you are our Captain, and - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- we will not be able to fool them. I do not believe these people intend us any harm, but I suggest that myself and Silvestrie accompany you to this meeting.” Keelah@crystyl smiles, "I welcome the company, Commander.” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni: "If I might make a recommendation as well, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"By all means, Ensign. You know I value your input.” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni smiles a little, "Well, it's just that from what we've seen so far; these people are in a classic underground resistance setup. Fear and paranoia are the only things in their minds, and the+ Keelah@crystyl:+ only things they're likely to respond to. We know that this all comes down to the fact that they don't believe in the Horde, so... I say we make them believe.” Keelah@crystyl perks a brow and chuckles, "Easier said than done, I fear. But I like your spirit.” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni shakes her head, "No Captain, what I mean is…” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht looks to her curiously. Keelah@crystyl | Rianni: "Attend your civil meeting with them by all means, but don't expect to gain any real ground. If however, we can track you and monitor for a signal from here we can conduct a wide dispersal+ Keelah@crystyl:+ beam out on your signal. Beam them into a holodeck made to look like the brig, even transfer our current prisoner to it. Then... let the Horde overrun it. We have more than enough data to recreate + Keelah@crystyl:+ holo-thralls, and enough of us have seen them in action to be able to accurately gauge their behaviour protocols. Let the resistance see the thing they refuse to believe in, I think it's the only + Keelah@crystyl:+ way you'll get them to understand what the Cidrian's are doing, and why.” Keelah@crystyl hrms, "That is certainly a... bold idea, Ensign" she looks to Vrolmacht, "Your opinion on this?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "It may be the best way to convey to them the threat of the Horde. There is nothing like a firsthand experience, or a recreation of one.” Keelah@crystyl nods and smiles back at Rianni, "I concur. Ensign, proceed with your plan. I will - as you say - not rely on it, but I want you ready with it before we beam down so we have the option at least.” Keelah@crystyl 's gaze lingers on Rianni a moment as she realizes for the first time that she can see a hint of that alternate future ruthless war Captain behind the innocent eyes of the young girl. Keelah@crystyl | Rianni sqints a little at the seemingly odd look from Keelah but gives a confident nod, "Aye Captain, we'll be ready!" Keelah@crystyl:"Excellent. Is there anything further before we move on?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht shakes his head, "We can set up the meeting if you are ready now, Captain." Keelah@crystyl nods, "We'll set it up for later today. Given Rianni time to set up the holodeck.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods, "Understood Captain. I will inform you when everything is set up.” Keelah@crystyl:"Very good, inform me when you are both ready to proceed. Dismissed.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht turns and heads out with Rianni. --- Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Some time later, Vrolmacht informs Keelah that all the preparations are ready and the away team are waiting for her in the transporter room. Keelah@crystyl joins them a few minutes later, "Gentleman. Ready to get to the bottom of things here?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Inside the transporter room, Vrolmacht, Silvestrie and Delaan are waiting for her. Vrolmacht steps over to her, "Aye Captain. The coordinates given by the Resistance are taking us to an inn on - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- the surface. They have requested that we go unarmed with no more than four personnel, or the meeting will be off. And as expected, they asked for your presence.” Keelah@crystyl:"Anything we need to be worried about from scans of the area?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht shakes his head, "There are no significant tactical installations or strategic positions in the area, not counting the height of the inn structure. They have requested we beam in at - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- the front of the inn, likely so they can have sights on us.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie: "I suspect the Resistance chose the site because of their familiarity with it. They'll likely have armed operatives on the ground, but nothing too worrying.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht: "There are also no signs of any jamming technology, so Ensign Tierno's plan is still in effect.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "Very well then, let us proceed.” Keelah@crystyl steps up onto the pad. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The rest of the team joins Keelah on the pad, and Katie announces, "Ready to beam you down, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"Energize.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Katie taps her console and the team disappears into transporter beams, materializing in front of a tall building on the edge of a city centre. Unlike the Resistance safehouse, this structure - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- is still well-maintained and in operation, though there are lot a lot of people going in and out, likely due to the war hampering travel. Keelah@crystyl looks around, "A crowded venue. Smart.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie nods, "Indeed. Let's head inside. They're probably waiting for us there.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "We would not want to be rude to our hosts now, would we" and steps that way. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The group enters the building into a fairly typical hotel lobby. Several Felmorans are inside, reading from PADDs or eating. A few of them glance at the Starfleet officers, while - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - others either ignore or don't notice the four. The receptionist behind the reception desk does look to the group though, appearing to wait patiently for them to approach. Keelah@crystyl approaches the desk, "I believe we are expected.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The receptionist nods, "That's correct." He reaches out under the table and pulls out a keycard, sliding it across the counter, "You have all the paperwork done already. Here's your room key.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Keelah sees that the key is marked for a meeting room on the third floor, not a hotel room. Keelah@crystyl nods, retrieving the card, "Perfect, thank you.” Keelah@crystyl glances to the others and heads off that way. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Receptionist: "Enjoy your stay.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | There are several lifts at the end of the lobby, as well as an entrance to a staircase. Keelah@crystyl checks the keycard, "Third floor meeting room" looking across the lobby signs, "Going up then" she smiles, pushing the call button for a lift. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The lift arrives promptly in a few seconds, opening up. Keelah@crystyl steps in, making room for the others. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The rest of the team steps in, the lift easily accommodating all of them as it was built for Felmoran size. It takes them to the third floor after a very quick ride, and the signs lead them - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - through the halls quite clearly to the meeting room. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | When Keelah reaches the correct meeting room, it is locked as expected, with a panel for the keycard. Keelah@crystyl uses the keycard. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The door slides open, revealing an unspectacular meeting room with a window view to the city outside. Around the table several Felmorans are seated, including the female that spoke with Rianni - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - and Emma in the safehouse at the head of the table. Four seats are left unoccupied for the group. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "Welcome. Have a seat.” Keelah@crystyl steps in, helping herself to a convenient seat, "Thank you for the hospitality.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "I assume you know what I want from you. I intercepted two of your people, but they claim they don't have any useful information. You on the other hand, have met with General Velkar.” Keelah@crystyl:"And with people so close to the General as you have; I find it hard to believe there is anything you don't know. So I want to know what you really expect to get out of this focus on us.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "Oh we know much, but I suspect there's still secrets the Cidrians have kept from us. Firstly we want to find out what they're really up to.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "Then I'm hoping we can talk you into staying out of our way.” Keelah@crystyl:"So sure are you, that if you learn the 'truth' of Cidrians intent that you will not want us here to assist?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "Only if you are willing to assist us in evicting them from our planet." She leans forward, "So, /do/ you know the truth of what's going on here? I have a feeling you're more than just - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- hired muscle. You look different from the lizards and lizard-insectoids who are under the Cidrians' payroll.” Keelah@crystyl leans in, "Truth is often a subjective term as much at the mercy of those telling it as those listening to it. I can proclaim to know certain impirical facts; whether or not these are the truth you + Keelah@crystyl:+ expect them to be is up to you.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "And what are these 'facts' you claim to know?” Keelah@crystyl leans back, "The exact one you know yourself already, as I understand it.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "That this whole evacuation is because of some mythical enemy? Surely you can see how unbelievable that sounds.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "I know all too well. We have faced this same disbelief with countless species since taking up the fight ourselves.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "This fight? You don't mean the war here, do you?” Keelah@crystyl shakes her head slowly, "No I do not. The Horde - or Bies as you call them - are very real, and very close.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "And how do I know you're not just saying what the Cidrians have asked you to say?” Keelah@crystyl leans back with a sigh, "I suppose...'I doubt I can say anything to persuade you.'” Keelah@crystyl says very pronounced as the passphrase to enact Rianni's plan to be heard on their open comm channel. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "Look at it from my point of view. Some Cidrian general kills his Queen and declares himself the ruler, and then conquers your planet. His forces occupy your home, and start preparing - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- your entire population for an evacuation because some mythical enemy from the fringes of the galaxy is co-” Keelah@crystyl FX | Everyone in the room is promptly swept up in transporter beams. The Felmoran's materializing inside a few small brig cells along with the one they took earlier. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana looks around as she materializes in the brig, "What is this? You know that I am just one person in the Resistance. Capturing me will not change anything.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "I will not talk, and someone will step up to take my place.” Keelah@crystyl FX | Keelah and her escorts appear outside the holodeck alongside Rianni. Keelah@crystyl:"Nicely done, Ensign. I hope your thralls are ready.” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni nods, "Mia did an excellent job based on the specimen we had for study as well as the variants from the Guardians database.” Keelah@crystyl FX | There is no response to the Felmorans in the fake brig, seemingly being left to their fate and ignored. Keelah@crystyl:"Alright, Ensign. This is your show.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana looks around the fake brig before sighing, "I knew we should not have trusted these new allies of the Cidrians. At least those of us not captured here know now…” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni hands Keelah a script, "We drafted a backstory that we've been fine tuning as we listening to your dialogue. Hopefully it flows.” Keelah@crystyl 's voice rings out over a PA in the fake brig, "My sincerest apologies for the abrupt departure, but it would appear that we had underestimated how much time we had before the Bies arrived. We may + Keelah@crystyl:+ no longer be able to save your people, but at least the few of you may survive to help save others. All hands, battle stations!" Keelah@crystyl perks a brow, looking to Rianni, "Do I really speak like that?” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni snickers, "Sorry Captain, but we had to rush this together!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "There's no need to keep up appearances anymore. You have us where you want.” Keelah@crystyl FX | The fakebrig lighting dips to a dull thrum of red alert pulsing while klaxons wail in the background. Keelah@crystyl | Rianni: "With your permission Captain, we need the helm to give us some convincing jolts.” Keelah@crystyl smirkls a little, tapping her combadge, "Se'Lai to bridge. I assume you have already briefed on Ensign Tierno's battle simulation idea. Proceed at will.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vodinev: "Maybe they aren't pretending…” Keelah@crystyl FX | The ship shudders and shakes as though performing combat maneuvers that push the inertial dampeners before a heavy jolt knocks people from their feet. Keelah@crystyl turns a frown to Rianni who chuckles nervously, "Sorry Captain, I just said to make it convincing..." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | In the fake brig, the prisoners tumble around before bracing on the walls of their cells. Keelah@crystyl FX | In reality they have simply broken orbit and descended at an obtuse angle to bounce off the atmosphere while manipulating override controls to inertial dampeners and grav plating. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "What is going on here? Are we really in a battle?” Keelah@crystyl 's voice rings out over the fakebrig PA once more, "Hull breach on deck 12 section 15, security personnel repel boarders!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vodinev: "This is not sounding good…” Keelah@crystyl FX | The ship sweeps across the planet's atmosphere again to sustain a turbulent ride for their passengers while the holoprogram begins to add some pyrotechnics to the display both inside their brig. Keelah@crystyl:+ and with the sound of more at a distant. This is soon accompanied by horrific screams and panicked weapons fire. Keelah@crystyl | Rianni watches their guests on a monitor, "I think we have their attention" tapping her combadge, "Bridge, that's enough now. Smooth sailing.” Keelah@crystyl perks a brow and folds her arms, "Oh, don't mind me.” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni toubletakes and flushes before a chuckle from Keelah shows she's only teasing. Keelah@crystyl FX | Inside the fakebrig the turbulent ride settles and the chaos dies down to an almost eerie silence... Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana looks around, "We need to get out of here." The Felmorans quickly scramble around, looking for ways to break out. Keelah@crystyl FX | Their efforts seem to be in vain at first. Keelah@crystyl | Rianni however sees what they're doing and gets a wicked idea, quickly interacting with the program. Keelah@crystyl FX | More minor explosions and smoke from the ceiling of the room as power conduits appear to blow out. Moments later the forcefields to the cells flicker and drop. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmorans rush out of their cells, looking around before trying to exit the brig entirely. Keelah@crystyl FX | The brig is a completely sealed room that is looking very worse for wear at this point. There is a single doorway at the centre of the end wall. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmorans move over to the doorway, seeing if it will open. Keelah@crystyl FX | The door is of course, locked. Keelah@crystyl FX | As they try to unlock however, there is a sudden ground shaking single BANG on the other side of the door. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vodinev: "We're locked in he-" He stumbles back at the bang. Keelah@crystyl FX | Another one, this time leaving a distinct dent in the door at around the Felmoran's shoulder height (and yes this door is magically the right size for them). Keelah@crystyl spots this on the display, "Aww, that was very considerate of you, Ensign.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana starts looking around for anything they can use as weapons. Keelah@crystyl | Rianni beams happily, "I just wanted to make them feel at home!” Keelah@crystyl FX | While Ivana and the others look around to arm themselves, a third pound on the door sends it flying inwards and a hulking great thrall who could easily have once been a Felmoran lurches through. Keelah@crystyl FX | There is a weapons locker by the security desk. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana quickly rushes over, trying to get a weapon while one of the other Felmorans tries to stand against the thrall unarmed. Keelah@crystyl FX | The thrall trudges a step closer to the brave Felmoran, enough so that it is clear of the doorway. Keelah@crystyl FX | More misshapen hands and claws begin scratching around the doorframe and an increasing number of thralls start to stumble in behind their tank. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The brave unarmed Felmoran falters, taking a step back from the tank thrall while Ivana grabs the first weapon she gets her hands on and turns around, opening fire at the thrall that got in. Keelah@crystyl FX | The thrall she hits staggers, but lurches forwards. More tumbling in through the doorway with increased vigour as they begin to spread around the room. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana continues firing with one hand as she grabs a second weapon and tosses it to Vodinev, who joins in. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | She continues helping the other Felmorans arm up as they try to keep the thralls at bay. Keelah@crystyl FX | Despite their apt arming up, nothing they do seems to halt the thralls advance as more continue to swarm in. Smaller more nimble thralls even scrambling up the walls around them while more + Keelah@crystyl + large and deadly looking thralls enter the mix. The large tank who first entered even sweeps it's muscular arm to push the smaller thralls aside as it approaches it's prey. Keelah@crystyl FX | The Felmorans would note that some of those smaller thralls wore the remnants of Starfleet uniforms, and were less changed than the other. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vodinev: "What are these things...they look like they were once us. And the foreigners!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "It doesn't matter! Concentrate fire on the larger one!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmorans all begin trying to bring down the tank. Keelah@crystyl FX | The thralls tighten their circle around the Felmorans, the large one looming on over them with the phaser fire only seeming to piss it off. Keelah@crystyl FX | As it roars and raises its arm to swipe at the Felmoran's with a hungry grasp... Keelah@crystyl s voice rings out, "Computer, freeze program.” Keelah@crystyl strolls in, casually ducking under the frozen arm of the giant thrall and between frozen phaser blast. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vodinev: "What...was that all a simulation?” Keelah@crystyl:"Ivana, Vodinev - all of you, meet the Bies" she gestures to the large thrall still frozen mid swing at them. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana drops her holo-rifle and glares at Keelah before turning her gaze to the thrall, "These are really Bies?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vodinev: "That one, it looks Lodzki. Like one of us. Or was, anyways.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "That is how the Bies work; they consume species they encounter into their own numbers. That is why they are also referred to as the 'Army of the Dead'. These thralls have come from a variety + Keelah@crystyl:+ of species, including Lodzki. It is why they are drawn to large civilizations, because of the numbers. And it is why they are on their way here, for your people.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vodinev: "So the legends are true…” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "How do we know this isn't just some elaborate story you've made based on rumours and old stories?” Keelah@crystyl:"Very much so. We felt it would be most expedient to let you witness them for yourselves" she looks to the frozen thralls, "Whilst these thralls are visually accurate, they were only using a basic AI+ Keelah@crystyl:+ package here. In reality, they are more intelligent with greater numbers as they share a consciousness. When a fleet numbering in the hundreds of thousands arrives in orbit, there is little they + Keelah@crystyl:+ can't achieve including advanced ground combat tactics" turning to Ivana, "Now that we have your undivided attention, I will gladly show you all that we have on them. We travel with a Guardian + Keelah@crystyl:+ vessel who have even more data, but can show you everything from sensor readings of our engagements with them to medical scans of captured thralls to details of our technology used to safeguard us + Keelah@crystyl:+ against their influence. You see Ivana, /this/ is the truth I deal in; the facts and figures. It is the truth the Cidrian Empire reportedly returned from their expedition with, but were not + Keelah@crystyl:+ believed. Whilst I can not say I condone Mihal's actions, I understand his desperation and intent in doing everything necessary to evacuate your people to safety." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana nods as she listens before finally saying, "Show me the information you have then, and I will judge if they are real or not- and if they are as dangerous as you claim.” Keelah@crystyl:"Right this way, take all the time you need. My staff is at your disposal to answer questions.” Keelah@crystyl:"Computer, end program.” Keelah@crystyl FX | The fakebrig and everything within ripples away, revealing the arch which opens as Keelah approaches. The others await outside along with Rianni. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | With Ivana's lead, the Felmorans step out of the holodeck, following Keelah. Keelah@crystyl & Co. lead the group to one of the science labs which was conveniently setup nearby just for this occasion. Lennie is inside with a number of other specialist. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana looks around, her gaze settling on Lennie, "You're a little taller than the others. Not quite Lodzki height, though.” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Mah species' called Orion an' I'm-a average slim build.” Keelah@crystyl meanwhile pulls up a stool in the corner, content to sit back and observe as her staff do the legwork. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana steps up to her, still quite a bit taller than Lennie, "So, you have data on the Bies?” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie chuckles, "Comin' out th'wazoo! Where'd ya wanna start? Biology, sociology, technology, evolution...?” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie sounded like that list of options was far from exhaustive. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "Let's start with sociology. They displayed some...interesting behaviour in that simulation of yours.” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie chuckles, "Sounded like quite th'wild ride" tapping away to start displaying the data. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana and another Felmoran leans over, viewing the data. Keelah@crystyl FX | Arrays of information because to scroll and flash up on the main central display. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "It was a very unexpected one." She reads through the information, nodding as she does, "And it seems fairly accurate to what you have here.” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Rianni didn't give us much chance t'refine tha' sim, an' th'focus were more on a first impression than a scientific study, but I made sure it were an accurate picture based on data an' + Keelah@crystyl:+ field observations from encounters by our combat teams an' those of allies.” Keelah@crystyl FX | The display begins to show said records, like vide from the MACO's fighting them at the Iconian Armour. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "They certainly seem to have given your troops trouble.” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "I know this won't much t'you'se guys yet, but these troops're some o'the best skilled combat units y'all ever likely t'see.” Keelah@crystyl:"To put it in perspective; the time it took our assault team to take that one facility from them was comparable to how quickly they took Terminu - the entire civilian colony.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "Really? And you think our colony can fall just as fast?” Keelah@crystyl diplomatically frames it as 'comparable' without actually saying how comparable, of course. Keelah@crystyl:"This is one world, and you are better defended. But we do not even know the exact size of the Horde force which is heading this way, only that it is supposedly substantially larger than the one we + Keelah@crystyl:+ destroyed at Terminu.” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie takes the prompt to show them the QanwI's sensor feed of the Horde Fleet swarming the remnants of Terminu before they destroyed them. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "That...is a lot of ships. What of their technology? What do you have on that?” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni joins at another console, "They don't really have a technology of their own. Not like any of us do at least. They perpetrate everything from the civilizations they consume. Not just people,+ Keelah@crystyl:+ but technology and resources too" she displays a collection of Horde ship profiles that have been recorded, showing if nothing else the sheer variety. Alien NPC@annpc#557 Ivana nods to the Felmoran they had captured earlier, "Vodinev. You were with the fleet before, weren't you? You know this best.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vodinev nods and steps over to view the data on Rianni's console. Keelah@crystyl | Rianni's console also shows how they were strip mining Terminu and salvaging the fallen ships from the initial battle. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Vodinev scrutinizes the data closely before saying, "I recognize some of these designs. They match with the technology of some of the ships that have passed through our space in the past, - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- speaking of the Bies. This cannot be a trick- if it is one it has been crafted to the finest detail.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana nods, "I believe you. This is going a little far to propagate something that is only a legend.” Keelah@crystyl:"Is there anything else you would like to review?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana steps over to take a look at the data herself, "But are you sure we have no choice but to evacuate? If this is what they do to worlds they take over...what will happen to Vasomir? Our - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- other colonies, our homeworld of Czostak?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "Is there no way to fight this enemy?” Keelah@crystyl:"We are building a united front to halt their progress. As for your evacuation... there is just not sufficient time to protect your entire population before the Horde is likely to arrive. It would + Keelah@crystyl:+ take months, maybe years to perform the procedure for everyone so it's just not practical. As for the homes you leave behind... I honestly do not know. They may plunder them for resources, yes. But+ Keelah@crystyl:+ they may just as likely ignore them completely as they seem to focus their attention on people. If their fleet passes through here unchallenged then they would have no need to replenish and repair + Keelah@crystyl:+ before moving on.” Keelah@crystyl:"So yes, I believe evacuation is the only real option to save your people. But it is not just running away, it is regrouping alongside a force that is capable of stopping them. If we act fast, we + Keelah@crystyl:+ /can/ safeguard your fleet personnel so they can join the fight to push the Horde back while the civilian population is kept safe at a distance.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana nods, "You have fought the Bies before. If that is what you think is best, I will trust your judgement. And as much as I dislike their ways, I will let the Cidrians proceed with their - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- evacuation. I presume you will want me to speak to the other Resistance cells as well?” Keelah@crystyl smiles, "It may be more expedient than bringing each here one by one to experience that simulation.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana nods, "Give me the data you have. I will try to show them what you have shown me, but I cannot guarantee that they will all listen.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana: "I am sure I can talk most of them around, though. And the remaining, they will not be able to do much without the support of other cells.” Keelah@crystyl stands and steps towards Ivana, "I know how difficult it is to put differences aside at times like this, but we need to end the hostilities between your resistance and the Cidrian forces. You all + Keelah@crystyl:+ have to work together for now; the very survival of your people may depend on it. And though it may not be much, if we can make this region safe for allied forces then I can bring in extra ships to+ Keelah@crystyl:+ assist with the evacuation" she extends a hand to Ivana, "So, will you help me to help your people?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Ivana nods, "I will help in every way I can. Of that you have my promise.” Keelah@crystyl:"Then let us get to work!" --- NPC@annpc#557 FX | Shortly after convincing Ivana to talk the other Resistance cells into standing down, Keelah is called to sickbay with the news that General Velkar is awake. Keelah@crystyl wanders in, "Doctor. How is he?” NPC@annpc#557 | Zanah looks up from her console to Keelah, "See for yourself, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl peers towards the Genera's bed. NPC@annpc#557 | General Velkar is already sitting up on his bed with a smile, "It'll take a lot more than a poorly made explosive to take me out. I've survived far worse.” Keelah@crystyl smiles, "Glad to hear it, General.” NPC@annpc#557 | Zanah steps over as well, "I'd say Felmorans are tough, and well they are, but while we were treating General Velkar, we found significant differences in his DNA. Alterations.” Keelah@crystyl perks a brow looking between the two, "Genetic modification?” NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar: "That's right. I was one of the members of the Huzar Program. One of the last remaining now.” Keelah@crystyl:"I assume that was some form of military augmentation?” NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar nods, "The only successful augmentation program the Lodzki people have carried out. Back during the Independance Wars, we've only just began to scratch the surface of faster-than-light - NPC@annpc#557:- technology. Most of our ships were slow, took forever to get reinforcements to the colonies, and we only had so many warp ships. So they made us- supersoldiers to make the most of the space on - NPC@annpc#557:- our fastest ships. We were supposed to turn the tide of the war, but in the end the High King managed to strike an agreement where Cidria got its independence and the governments of Vasomir and - NPC@annpc#557:- Kodek moved offworld anyways so they wouldn't be as separate from that of the colonists. And yes, you heard right, I fought /against/ the colonies back then.” Keelah@crystyl smiles, "So I guess among other things, this enhancement affords you an improved healing rate and overall resilience to injury.” Keelah@crystyl:"Which would mean your casual dismissal of the bombing attempt on you would have likely left another in distinctly worse condition.” NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar nods, "That it would. But it's not without its downsides either. As you know by now, the Lodzki aren't as open minded culturally as we are scientifically. Just as the Czostak Kingdoms - NPC@annpc#557:- look down on the colonies or most of us look down on foreigners, members of the Program didn't come home as heroes. The war wasn't ended thanks to us, and we were seen as nothing except - NPC@annpc#557:- abominations. Some of us were sent by our superiors on suicide missions. Some of us were killed by our own people or driven into the Shadow Lands- even we have limits. A few couldn't stand it and - NPC@annpc#557:- took their own lives. The lucky ones found refuge with the very enemies we were made to fight: the colonies. In the end, they were more accepting of differences, the Kingdom of Cidria especially.” Keelah@crystyl:"A surprisingly common tale among many Children species. Just as FTL travel is an inevitable point in natural evolution for most, so is experimenation with genetics. Successes vary, but the + Keelah@crystyl:+ sociological picture you describe is quite common. But I digress; there have been developments.” NPC@annpc#557 | General Velkar chuckles, "Yes, I presume you didn't come here to hear my life's story, or have a history lesson on my people. What's been happening while I was out?" Keelah@crystyl:"We tracked down the resistance cell responsible for the bombing, convinced them that the Bies is a real threat and sent them to persuade the other cells to cease all hostilities and assist in the + Keelah@crystyl:+ evacuation" she notes nonchalantly, like it's just another day. NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar: "Really? Impressive. I suppose there was too much animosity between the Cidrians and the Vasomiri. An outsider's touch was exactly what we needed.” Keelah@crystyl:"It would seem so. We learned early on that they had spies in your office, so had you transferred here for treatment while we investigated as we couldn't be sure of your safety while recovering on + Keelah@crystyl:+ the surface. But yes, with impirical evidence presented, they were no longer able to deny the threat. As to how successful they are with the other cells... we shall have to wait and see.” NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar: "A good precaution. Mihal only left me with so many troops and they're spread thin dealing with problems across the colony. We have to use Vasomiri servants and technicians for more - NPC@annpc#557:- mundane work even in the Palace. And we have no choice but to rely on the Vasomiri military to faciliate the evacuation, even though a lot of them sympathize with the Resistance and might've - NPC@annpc#557:- gone against their oaths of service to sign up with them. Something like this was bound to happen sooner or later. I hope things will calm down now that you've talked with them.” Keelah@crystyl:"Calming down might not be exactly what we want. After all, we need to rally your people into an evacuation.” NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar: "True, but I don't expect all the Resistance cells to suddenly come and help. If they stop sabotaging and interfering with the evacuation, that's a good enough start already.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "That is what our contact expects; most to fall in line and help, those who refuse will be so isolated that they no longer pose a major threat to the operation. What of Mihal though, did you + Keelah@crystyl:+ have any luck on your end before this unfortunate incident?” NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar nods, "I spoke to him but didn't get the chance to give you his coordinates before the explosion went off. Get me a pad.” NPC@annpc#557 | Zanah steps aside and grabs a PADD, handing it to the General. Keelah@crystyl turns with a grateful smile, "Thank you, Doctor. General, do we have a timeframe in which to meet with him?” NPC@annpc#557 | The General taps away at it, grumbling about it being too small for his hands as he makes a typo and has to erase a few numbers. He hands Keelah the PADD as he finishes, "That's the - NPC@annpc#557:- current coordinates of his dreadnought. He shouldn't be moving while the fake blockade of Kodek is taking place, so you don't have to worry about a timeframe. But you don't want to tarry too - NPC@annpc#557:- long, if he is truly being influenced by the Bies.” Keelah@crystyl:"What about his expectations? I assume you had to tell him something about us at least" she smiles. NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar: "I told him most of what you told me- that you represented a Coalition standing against the Bies and have come to help with the evacuations.” Keelah@crystyl:"Excellent, that should get us right where we need to be. We'll be underway as soon as we can, but I don't want to leave things here unresolved. I would like at least to have a continuation of our + Keelah@crystyl:+ dialogue with the resistance cell running with your people. Then with luck, by the time we return with confirmation of Mihal's condition, the situation here will be moving full swing to evacuation.” NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar: "I hope so. You have a plan for this dialogue?” Keelah@crystyl:"Only so far as waiting to hear back from our contact and reacting to whatever news they present accordingly.” NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar nods, "Do you expect they'll be willing to have Cidrian representatives like myself along, or will they likely only speak with you? It would be better if we could be in direct - NPC@annpc#557:- communication with them, to better manage things while you visit Mihal.” Keelah@crystyl:"That is why I want to wait to hear back from them. They may require us to at least host an initial discussion between the two parties.” NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar nods, "Good thinking. I should be up and walking soon- let me know if the Resistance are willing to meet.” Keelah@crystyl smiles, resting a hand on his shoulder, "Don't worry, you'll be the first to know. Mean time - supersoldier or not - take the opportunity to thoroughly rest yourself. Even recovering your injuries, + Keelah@crystyl:+ there are hard times ahead and your people need you at your best. I promise I won't let you miss anything.” NPC@annpc#557 | Velkar: "Excellent. I'll be sure to rest up, this evacuation business won't be easy, and the war isn't over yet either.” Keelah@crystyl:"The sad truth of things, General; is that the real war has yet to commence. Rest easy" she smiles in parting, turning to return to her duties. --- Keliaya@anncaris FX | Shortly after the conversation with General Velkar, the VF hears back from the Resistance which reports that most cells are standing down, with a handful willing to assist in the evacuation. Keliaya@anncaris - With Keelah's mediation, the cell leaders met with the General and other Cidrian representatives to plan the evacuation. Assured that the situation on Vasomir is under control, the VF departs - Keliaya@anncaris - for Emperor Mihal's coordinates. After half a day of travel, they near the position... Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Cap'n we'se approachin' th'coordinates they gave us. Looks t'be in th'middle of a nebula an' mah sensors can't penetrate.” Keelah@crystyl hrms, "Analysis of the nebula; what sensor visibility would we have if we entered it, and would it affect other systems?" Keelah@crystyl | Lennie checks: "Short range only within th'nebula. No signs of impact t'other systems.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "Very well. Yellow alert and take us in. Cautiously…” Keliaya@anncaris | Ann: "Aye Cap'n. Takin' us in. Cautiously.” Keliaya@anncaris | The VF cruises into the nebula, the gasses swirling around the hull of the ship... Keelah@crystyl watches anxiously, "Eva, try hailing them." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "Yes Captain. I'm getting a response...from somewhere behind us. It should be within sensor range, but there's no ship there.” Keelah@crystyl:"Let's hear it." Keliaya@anncaris | Eva nods and taps her console. A Toroki face appears on the viewscreen. Keliaya@anncaris | Toroki: "We have been expecting you. Follow me." Keelah@crystyl:"Contarily, we were not expecting you. What is the meaning of all this?" Keliaya@anncaris | Toroki: "You have come to see the Emperor, have you not?” Keelah@crystyl:"Forgive my presumptuousness, but you do not look like a Lodzki Emperor.” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Cap'n, they've taken up an escort position off our bow.” Keliaya@anncaris | Toroki: "His ship is concealed in this nebula. The Lodzki do not have cloaking devices as we do, and the Emperor does not wish to sit in the open unless he seeks to bait an attack from his - Keliaya@anncaris - enemies. I will take you to him." Keelah@crystyl nods, "Very well. Helm, form up on the Toroki escort." Keliaya@anncaris | Ann nods, "Aye, formin' up on the Toroki now." Keliaya@anncaris | The comm ends, showing the nebula with the Toroki raider ahead as it leads the way. Keelah@crystyl | Rianni: "I know these people are employing mercenaries, but to have them guarding the Emperor himself?” Keelah@crystyl nods, "I agree, Ensign. It is... unexpected. Maintain vigilance and alert status for now.” Keliaya@anncaris | A few minutes pass by quietly... Keelah@crystyl | Rianni continues to watch her panel diligently. Keelah@crystyl | Lennie: "Cap'n, somethin' else's ahead. S'big, over 2K in length.” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni mutters: "Either this is our expected appointment, or we're in really big trouble here…” Keelah@crystyl hears the mutter and side glances with a slight chuckle, though she doesn't disagree. Keliaya@anncaris nods as she taps her console, "It's definitely designed for combat. I'm seeing 26 phaser emitters, four of them heavy, eight torpedo tubes, heavy ablative armour plating and multiple redundant - Keliaya@anncaris:- shield emitters. They have full point-defense coverage with turrets as well. Sensor and main deflector systems aren't as advanced as ours though, and it has a lower maximum speed.” Keelah@crystyl | Rianni gives an unimpressed huff, "Overcompensate much…” Keliaya@anncaris:"It seems to have a secondary core...no, that's an auxiliary ship. A destroyer housed within the main ship, not unlike the Aquarius escorts of the Odyssey class.” Keelah@crystyl | Lennie snorts a chuckle at Rianni's comment. Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "It's broadcasting a Cidrian IFF, identifying as the Spear of Cidria.” Keelah@crystyl peers over, "Alright Ensign, eyes on the prize please.” Keliaya@anncaris FX | Meanwhile, the Spear of Cidria comes into view on the screen: https://i.redd.it/41sgkwu0bg921.png Keelah@crystyl | Rianni nods meekly. Keelah@crystyl:"But there is no denying... that is a ship not built for hiding in nebulas" she notes, subtly in support of Rianni's comment. Keliaya@anncaris nods, looking to the screen, "I can see why the future Valley Forge wanted us to come here and evacuate the Felmorans. The Horde usually relies on numbers over individual strength, but with - Keliaya@anncaris:- ships like this added to their fleet, they'll have both. The Colonial Fleet Baseships are more technologically advanced, but they don't field firepower like this.” Keliaya@anncaris:"It could even be a match for a Nuhar Defender…” Keelah@crystyl:"Indeed. Then let us hope this works out favourably.” Keliaya@anncaris | Eva: "The Spear of Cidria is hailing us, Captain.” Keelah@crystyl:"On screen.” Keliaya@anncaris | A Felmoran female appears on the viewscreen, "Captain Keelah of the Valley Forge, I presume?” Keelah@crystyl stands, "I am Captain Keelah.” Keliaya@anncaris | Felmoran: "General Velkar said to expect you. You seek an audience with the Emperor?” Keelah@crystyl:"I do.” Keliaya@anncaris | Felmoran: "The Spear of Cidria is ready to receive you for transport. Be notified that any weapons you bring will be disabled in transit, as will any other items we deem of potential risk.” Keelah@crystyl perks a brow, "'Any other items'? I require specifics in order to align with our security measures here.” Keliaya@anncaris | Felmoran: "Components that may be used to put together a weapon will be disabled. Do not worry, personal assistance devices or mechanical and cybernetic components will not be touched.” Keelah@crystyl:"Fair enough. We have subdermal implants and communicators that are essential. We will also have hand held tricorders which we will use to verify the other utilities are undamaged. Failure to report + Keelah@crystyl:+ everything as normal upon beamout will result in an immediate beam back, I'm sure you understand.” Keliaya@anncaris | The Felmoran nods, "Implants, communicators and scanners will not be touched, but we ask you not scan areas of the ship unless you are given permission to." Keelah@crystyl:"Naturally. Do you have any prerequisites on the greeting party?” Keliaya@anncaris | Felmoran: "You may bring anyone you wish to accompany you, provided they fit on a single transporter pad." Keelah@crystyl smiles slightly, "Somehow I doubt fitting in any spaces will be a concern for any of us while over there. Prepare to receive my party shortly then." --- Keelah@crystyl beams to the Emperor's ship with Lennie, Silvestrie & 2 MACO's all unarmed as agreed. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The transporter room they appear in is large, but no larger than that of the average Felmoran ship. Three Felmorans wearing the red-black-gold uniform of the Cidrian military awaits them, with - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - one of them wearing a slightly different uniform that marks him as an officer and the other two as soldiers. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran Officer: "Welcome to the Spear of Cidria. I will escort you to the Emperor.” Keelah@crystyl steps off the pad, "Thank you.” Keelah@crystyl | Silvestrie plays his part, verifying their comms. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The comms are all good, as well as the rest of their equipment. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran officer turns and leads the way with the two soldiers falling into line behind the Starfleet officers. Keelah@crystyl awaits an affirmative nod from Silvestrie before following the Felmorans out. The MACO's hanging at the back of the group to keep a protective eye over the officer. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The Felmoran officer leads Keelah and the others through the halls of the Spear of Cidria. Like the transporter room, the hallways are large, but not much larger than other Felmoran ship - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - interiors. Like other Felmoran ships, it was much more decorated than Starfleet ships, but what was presumably the Emperor's own flagship did not look overly intricate next to the decor of - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - other vessels either. Keelah@crystyl quietly begins to share Rianni's sentiment in wishing the next species they deal with on this level are midgets. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | As they walk through the halls, they pass by a number of other Felmorans, all dresed in variants of the uniform which all sprout the same colours- red and black with gold trim. Their escort - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - remains silent and formal as he leads them into a large lift where they can all easily fit into. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The lift takes them to another level, where they proceed through another shorter hallway, then into another lift, which finally brings them to their destination... Keelah@crystyl also appreciates not having such a large vessel taking so long to get anywhere. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The scale of the ship is reflected on the massive bridge which boasts three different viewscreens across the front. Soldiers stand guard on the entrances, while officers work away at the - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - various consoles. In the centre stands Emperor Mihal himself, clad in a unique and more decorated variant of the red-black-gold uniform. Unlike General Velkar, he is not armoured, but he - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- carries the same sword upon his back. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Felmoran Officer: "His Majesty Mihal of House Diacon, First of his name, King of the Colony-Kingdom of Cidria, Emperor of the Cidrian Empire.” Keelah@crystyl steps forward, content to introduce herself, "...Keelah" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | As Mihal turns around, the pistol on his side can be seen. It is not a Cidrian weapon; in fact with the size large enough for a Felmoran to comfortably hold, the blade attached to the barrel - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- and the studs on the bottom of the grip, it is a distinctly Lupan design. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "You are the one who has come to us representing the Coalition that now fights the Bies.” Keelah@crystyl dips her head a little, "I am. Captain T'Keel Se'Lai of the Valley Forge, or the StarBlade if you prefer" visibly noting the sidearm, "and I am here representing the Coalition, yes.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "Good. We could use your help here, as I expect you have noticed. I presume Velkar has filled you in on the details.” Keelah@crystyl:"As much as he knew, though I eager to learn more of your experiences which led to current plans.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "Of which experience do you mean? Many things have led up to the current state we find ourselves in.” Keelah@crystyl:"Those which led you to perceive the Horde - the Bies - threat so severely as to determine that evacuation was your best course of action.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "Celestina and I were on an expedition. We heard rumours of the Bies to varying degrees, but we were ignorant then. We believed that something was out there, but we did not believe the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- severity of how it was described. We diverted our expedition to gauge the threat, but we were not even able to get close. Their powers reached us before we could even see them, and it was - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- fortunate we managed to turn back in time and did not become their slaves. What is not fortunate was the reaction of those who had not experienced what we had upon our return.” Keelah@crystyl:"You say their powers 'reached you'?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "Yes. They tried to dominate our minds. Show us visions of their intentions, among...other things none of us have been able to comprehend. We recognized this was the legendary power - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- of the Bies and turned around before they could seize control of our minds.” Keelah@crystyl:"That must have quite the vision..." Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "The rumours were every bit true about the vast range of their influence. That is why I must evacuate my people- and quickly.” Keelah@crystyl:"I am curious... exactly how vast have your rumours indicated their influence to work over?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "That they could take over the minds of entire populations simply by approaching their planet. That the more of them there are in one place, the stronger and further their influence.” Keelah@crystyl:"That is true, but not the entire scope of it.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "I suspect you know more about the Horde's abilities? Knowledge is a useful tool, and as they are fast approaching our territory, anything you have to share will be invaluable.” Keelah@crystyl:"I am happy to discuss the matter in further detail. Do you wish to continue here on your bridge or relocate to a quieter area without distraction?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "Come. There is a Captain's office nearby." He turns and leads Keelah across the bridge to what appears similar to a ready room. Keelah@crystyl nods and follows. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | The two soldiers and officer waits outside while Mihal steps in and takes a seat on a chair beside a desk. Keelah@crystyl takes a seat across from him, "Emperor, I am gratified for the opportunity to meet with you. I see a lot of similarity in us, and our respective circumstances and that is something I long have been + Keelah@crystyl:+ deprived.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "Indeed? Have you had similar experiences with the Bies, then?” Keelah@crystyl:"Let's just say that I see many parallels between our respective positions. But before I discuss any classified intelligence, would you indulge me with permitting a cursory scan. Just to ensure this + Keelah@crystyl:+ room is as secure as we both believe it to be. I have learned - the hard way - that the Bies threat comes in many unsavoury forms.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal nods, "Go ahead. This room does not contain anything we would not wish you to see.” Keelah@crystyl nods and smiles, "Thank you. This won't take a moment" she pulls out her tricorder, conducting the scan to check him for influence. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | He does indeed show influence! Not the heaviest in terms of scale but not particularly light either, similar to what Vora had, perhaps a little less than her. Keelah@crystyl hrms, folding the tricorder away, "Ok, now where was I...?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "You were speaking of similarities in our position- before you decided to check the room, that is.” Keelah@crystyl:"Aah yes. You see, much as you returned from learning about the Bies to find yourself in this position of having to take charge of a reluctant people to save them from this unseen threat; I too have+ Keelah@crystyl:+ been elevated to a comparable role as a central figure in the Coalition. Many of the struggles you now face, ring true with those I dealt with myself in recent months.” Keelah@crystyl leans back with a reminiscent chuckle, "You would not believe the time I had convincing this one species to change their determined course of action while following their leader who was influenced!” Keelah@crystyl:"It was the damnedest thing though, because the Horde was nowhere near them yet; light years, even several sector blocks away! So you can imagine the fun in convincing people there, I'm sure!” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal nods, "It is difficult enough to convince my own people, even though it will not be long now before the Bies reach us. But I cannot simply tell them to go and see for themselves. They - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- may not return as I had, and I may be giving our enemy more ships and troops by sending more scouts their way.” Keelah@crystyl:"And from what we've seen of their influencing ability, if you did send scouts then those scouts could come back acting under the Bies' subtle influence without even knowing it! Just imagine the + Keelah@crystyl:+ damage that could cause…” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "Is that true? I have heard word of it- agents of the Bies sent back not as part of their mind-controlled army, but as spies to sabotage their own people.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "I did not think that was real. Why would they need to send spies, when they can simply seize control of entire civilizations upon arrival? They do not need to sabotage their enemy to - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- win, it is not a battle anyone can stand and fight.” Keelah@crystyl nods, "That's exactly what happened to the leader of those people I mentioned! As you noted yourself; the greater their numbers, the greater their intelligence and reach. Yes, they can brute force + Keelah@crystyl:+ an assault. But they take heavy losses in doing so, and that slows them down in recovering before moving on. So why waste time and resources when they can divide a civilization with subterfuge + Keelah@crystyl:+ before reaching them?” Keelah@crystyl:"I suppose it was a lucky thing that you were able to return from your expedition and whip your people into shape before anything could happen to divide their interests, isn't it!" Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal narrows his eyes, "If you have not noticed, my people are anything but united against the Bies. If only there were some way to make them understand, to make them see what I have seen - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - without risking them falling under the control of the enemy..." Keelah@crystyl hrms, "You raise a good point. Well, it's a good thing you returned from being touched by their influence safely then! What state do you imagine the Lodzki people would be in now had you not + Keelah@crystyl:+ returned when you did in order to overthrow the royal family and steer people in their current direction?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "You...do not mean to insinuate that I have already fallen under their control, do you? That cannot be possible. I am the one trying to save my people from the Bies. The only one who - Alien NPC@annpc#557 - can see the threat they represent. Surely…” Keelah@crystyl tilts her head slightly, letting him think it through. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "I...suppose I have been exposed to them. I do not understand. Why would I still wish to save my people if the enemy is influencing me? Could they have truly been so intelligent that…” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "That they predicted my warnings would go unheeded? That I would have to resort to force?” Keelah@crystyl stands, "There is a game people play where i come from, we call it chess. It is a game of advanced strategy where two opponents try to out think one another by predicting plays and gambits. Perhaps + Keelah@crystyl:+ you have something similar?" she asks, glancing back over her shoulder. Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal nods, "Yes. We have several different games in strategy, and we are taught many of them in our military academies.” Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, the principles of chess are often used by our tactical people as well. As they are by the Bies, you see they are not only looking ahead to their next move. But the move after that, and likely + Keelah@crystyl:+ several beyond" she turns back to him to continue. Keelah@crystyl:"So is it possible that they anticipated events here playing out exactly as they have? Perhaps. But I believe it more likely that they simply aimed to destabilize your civilization because for all + Keelah@crystyl:+ good intentions in the world; they know as well as we do that people will not just abandon their homes on a whim. So at best, the Lodzki are divided and scattered, and so easy prey. That easy prey + Keelah@crystyl:+ strengthens the Bies' numbers to easily swallow up the next world and so on.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "That is true. We may not be able to win against the Bies in a direct confrontation, but if we were to develop some countermeasure against their powers instead of scattering to the - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- stars, our fleets will likely manage to cause some damage to theirs.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "If I am truly compromised...who can lead the Empire now? Celestina? She is a fine leader, but she was on the expedition as well. If I am being manipulated by the Bies, so is she and - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- many of her subordinates. Velkar...he is one of the best soldiers and tacticians I have ever known, but he has never been adept at the subtleties of political maneuvering." Keelah@crystyl raises a hand to stop him worrying, "I told you that we came here to bring the Coalition's support and assistance. I did not do so without being appropriately prepared, Emperor. We have the ability + Keelah@crystyl:+ to test people for this level of influence, cleanse it to restore their own decision making, and even protect against reoccurring. If you are willing, I can help you.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "Will it be quick, or will it take time?" Keelah@crystyl:"Time is a relative construct, Emperor. To test and treat you - if it turns out to be needed - would take a little time as it involves a minor medical procedure. It really depends on your own + Keelah@crystyl:+physiology and metabolism to recover. As for larger scale implementations; those take significantly longer measures of time more comparable to solar and orbital cycles.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "Celestina's ships were on the expedition, and she still commands many of them. I will have to call them for treatment...but first I must ensure I am of the right mind to make decisions.” Keelah@crystyl:"The fortunate thing about this treatment plan is that - whilst it starts with one person - it spreads at a geometric rate confined only by the available facilities. We will soon be able to secure + Keelah@crystyl:+ your key figures. But first, we should take care of you. Can you return to the Valley Forge with me?” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal nods, "Give me a moment to temporarily transfer command of the Spear of Cidria and this battle group, and I will come with you. I suspect the one I leave in command will wish to assign - Alien NPC@annpc#557:- guards to observe the treatment.” Keelah@crystyl:"With luck, it will be no more severe than an extended away mission where I would leave my XO in charge of the ship" she smiles, "I completely understand the need to maintain your own security, + Keelah@crystyl:+ especially on an alien ship. Take what measures you feel are necessary.” Alien NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "I will be with you momentarily.” Keelah@crystyl dips her head, turning to leave him to his organizing. --- NPC@annpc#557 | After convincing Emperor Mihal that he is being influenced by the Horde, the Emperor and two of his guards proceed to one of the transporter rooms of the Spear of Cidria with Keelah. NPC@annpc#557 | The Emperor does not stand on the pad however, simply standing and waiting. NPC@annpc#557 | After a few seconds, he turns to Keelah, "Does your ship have similar restrictions to my own? Shall I surrender my weapons first?” Keelah@crystyl:"Energy weapons will automatically be disabled before materializing, so we will not require you to leave them behind although they will serve no value so it is your choice. Non-energy weapons may be + Keelah@crystyl:+ transported, but can not freely be carried about the ship so if you wish to take them with you, you will be asked to surrender them to our security operatives for safekeeping.” NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal draws his bladed Lupan pistol, showing it to Keelah, "This can be used for both. I suppose you will not allow me to carry it?” Keelah@crystyl:"You will see that nobody carries weapons on board my ship except for security personnel. Our transporters would disable it, but as you highlight; it would need to be handed over as well.” NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal nods and steps over to his transporter operator, handing over his pistol first, then unhooking the sword with sheath from his back, glancing to Keelah, "The blade is mostly ornamental, - NPC@annpc#557 - but it is sharpened and usable as a weapon if needed. You may have noticed General Velkar carrying one as well," he turns back to the transporter officer, "Keep these safe until I return.” NPC@annpc#557 | Transporter Operator: "It would be my honour, Your Majesty.” Keelah@crystyl:"Indeed, though I must admit a certain curiosity as to the significance of Lupan weapons to you. I look forward to learning all about it once this is over" she smiles. NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "It is quite a simple story, actually- unless you let a bard tell it. I obtained it in my first significant battle as an officer. A Lupan pack was causing trouble at the edge of Cidrian - NPC@annpc#557 - space. Our ship hunted them down, but their packship proved too much for us. We were adrift, our Captain was dead and the Lupan boarded us. Knowing I did not have enough troops to repel them, - NPC@annpc#557:- the Acting Captain was about to self-destruct the ship. As a last resort I challenged the Lupan alpha to a duel and killed him. The new Alpha was impressed enough to reward me with his - NPC@annpc#557:- predecessor's weapon and leave us alone, and I have kept the weapon since as my own.” Keelah@crystyl smiles, "You should meet my young tactical officer while on board. She too challenged a Lupan alphea head on, though it was not a duel to the death. She did however participate in one of their + Keelah@crystyl:+ hunting rituals afterwards and still wears a Lupan tooth around her neck from a fallen packmate.” NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "Impressive. As I understand, both are considered quite an honour among the Lupan, especially for an outsider- ah, and our last member is here.” NPC@annpc#557 | A female Felmoran wearing yet another variant of the uniform, this time a longer one, steps into the room. Keelah@crystyl looks over curiously. NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "This is Melitta Varis, my personal doctor. She will be coming to observe, if you do not mind.” Keelah@crystyl pulls out her tricorder to check the doctor, a brief glance for consent before proceeding. NPC@annpc#557 | The doctor shows no sign of influence. Keelah@crystyl nods, folding it back into its pouch, "Your doctor's supervision will be most welcome. Doctor, my medical staff can walk you through the procedure and provide you the necessary knowledge to perform+ Keelah@crystyl:+ it yourself on others.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta smiles, "Excellent. My primary duty is to ensure the procedure will not harm the Emperor, but I will observe it carefully to pass on to our doctors and assist anyone else here who may - NPC@annpc#557:- need it performed.” NPC@annpc#557 | Now, Emperor Mihal steps onto the transporter pad, followed by his two guards. Keelah@crystyl joins them. NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta steps onto the pad as well and Mihal gives the transporter operator a nod. They disappear into transporter beams, reappearing in one of the VF's transporter rooms. Keelah@crystyl steps off the pad, "My security staff. They will work serve as escort to your party while on board, please accompany them to the medical lab where my doctor's staff are waiting.” NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal nods and steps off the pad, with Melitta and his own security escorts following, "Lead the way.” Keelah@crystyl joins the group as they move through the ship. Keelah@crystyl:"I apologize for the confined setting. Hopefully our doorways aren't too low clearance for you.” NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal: "They are...smaller than I am used to, but we will be careful." Keelah@crystyl & Co. lead them to the medical lab where Kazra and her staff await. Keelah@crystyl:"My Chief Medical Officer; Dr. Kazra Meel. Kazra, this is Emperor Mihal.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra steps over offering a courteous slight bow, "Emperor. I promise this will be as quick and simple as we can make it.” NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal nods, "I trust your expertise on this, after all- you are the experts against the Bies.” NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal looks around, "Where do you want me, Doctor?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra turns, gesturing to the surgical bed, "Right over here, please.” Keelah@crystyl takes herself out of the way for now.” NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal gestures to his two guards, who stand watch by the entrance while he steps over to the surgical bed. His own doctor, Melitta, follows over, asking, "What does this procedure entail?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra looks to her a moment, "You are...?” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "Melitta Varis. I am the one who usually treats the Emperor.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "At least, since he became Emperor.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra smiles, "A fellow medical practitioner, excellent" she activates the biobed and looks to the display, "We will be correcting this neural wave imbalance, here" she points to a section + Keelah@crystyl:+ highlighted on the screen. "This is caused by lingering Horde influence and affects - primarily - the frontal lobe and the somatosensory cortex. The procedure introduces a small subcutaneous + Keelah@crystyl:+ implant-" she again points to the simplified diagram on the screen, "- between the medula oblongata and the first cortical." NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta nods, "And this implant, it will protect him against the influence?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra nods, preparing a hypo for Mihal, "It suppresses this particular banding of telepathic susceptibility. Once it place, his neural waves will return to their natural state very quickly and he + Keelah@crystyl + will essentially be immune to falling under the same influence again.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "Excellent. Is this how you are able to fight against the Bies yourselves?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra nods, "It is certainly key to our efforts" as she applies the hypo to put Mihal under.” NPC@annpc#557 | Mihal slips into unconsciousness as Melitta continues to observe, "And you are certain the implants work regardless of our different physiologies? I presume you have applied it to many - NPC@annpc#557:- different species already, seeing the diversity on your ship alone.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra nods, "Exactly yes, it comes down to our common genetic ancestry as Children species. Since it is this genetic design which allows the Horde to exert its control, that is the common+ Keelah@crystyl:+ denominator which the implant counteracts.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "So it works on all species with our common ancestry, no matter how different. What of other species- does the Bies have no ability to control them, or do they need different defenses?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra: "Some - like the Lupan, who were engineered specifically to fight the Bies - are naturally immune. The Horde influence is directly linked to Child species, and we are not aware of any + Keelah@crystyl:+ non-Child species being absorbed into their number.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "That is how the Lupan came to be? That explains their biology...and their nature.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra: "Since diverting our mission to address this Horde threat, we have learned a great deal not only about them, but ourselves and our ancient origins.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "Really? That sounds very interesting. I have not been far outside our territories- I know only that there is some shared genetics between the Lodzki and many other intelligent species.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "The Czostak Kingdoms do not even know this- or rather, I suspect they do, but it is not commonly known outside of those in power.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra, "I'm sure the Captain has a great deal of information available to present to you all.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "And I suspect the Emperor will wish to learn much of what you know once he is treated. For the moment...your Captain mentioned that I may use this procedure to treat others in a - NPC@annpc#557:- similar position to the Emperor and to pass it on to our other doctors. Will you provide the schematics of this implant?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra pauses, shaking her head, "This implant is... prohibited technology. That is not to say that your people can't have it's schematics, but the Regulators control them as they developed them.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra: "However, the principal treatment we are performing to cleanse the influence can easily be performed on others and is a technique we have successfully taught to many - both medical and + Keelah@crystyl:+ non-medical alike. That, you can have everything on immediately.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta nods, "That will be good enough, then. From what the Emperor has been saying, I do not suppose we will be able to equip our fleet with the implants in time to make a difference against - NPC@annpc#557:- the Bies, and we are already in the process of evacuating anyways. And that is not even mentioning the other fleets that are not under our control yet.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "If we are able to cleanse the influence on those who were on Celestina's expedition and already affected, it should make the evacuation proceed smoothly.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra chuckles, "I'm afraid the internal affairs of your species is a bit beyond my remit. But yes, I believe that is the Captain's intent. And evacuating in coordination with the Coalition should+ Keelah@crystyl:+ increase our capacity to prepare your fleets to stand against the Horde. But not alone, alongside the rest of the Coalition forces.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "This Coalition of yours, you all have these implants to defend against the Bies' powers?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra nods, "Those who require them at least." NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "Those who require them? You don't mean you are supported by Lupan packs...?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra nods, focusing on her work, "Mhmm.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta widens her eyes, "Really? And I thought the Emperor had an impressive collection of mercenaries. I don't usually get to treat them, of course, but it is very interesting to observe - NPC@annpc#557:- these beings are so different from us.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra chuckles, "Sometimes I forget what it can be like to come from a more singular society. Back home in the Federation, we are surrounded by hundreds of different species all working together, + Keelah@crystyl:+ so it's very much just the norm for us.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "Really? That explains the amazing diversity on board your ship. How do you even manage so many different species and cultures? We have enough disputes among our own people as it is.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "Not to mention the mind-numbing variety of biological differences you would have to be aware of as a doctor…” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra chuckles, "It is not without its own share of conflicts and problems. But you have to remember that service in Starfleet is a significant step beyond simple Federation membership. A whole + Keelah@crystyl:+ world might be a member of the Federation, but in some cases almost none of their people serve in Starfleet because of many things like natural physiological differences making them adverse to our + Keelah@crystyl:+ default environments, or social tendencies being too contradictory with others. but for those who do find their way into service, by the time they reach a posting like the Valley Forge they are + Keelah@crystyl:+ generally beyond any petty racial differences. And you're right, it is an obscene amount of varying medical knowledges that is required. Fortunately, Child species tend to have a lot of common + Keelah@crystyl:+ factors which help with general practice. As for rarer conditions and medical phenomena; that is why we hold such an extensive database. Not to mention a diverse medical staff with relevant + Keelah@crystyl:+ expertise to the crew they serve with.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta nods, "That makes sense. What of the species that do not regularly serve with you? Do they field their own fleets?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra: "Some, perhaps. Though they would likely be smaller planetary defense fleets. Such colonies would still be supported by Starfleet on the whole.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "So your fleet is more like the Arshai's Colonial Fleet. If the species I see on your ship is not even a full representation of your entire Federation, you must have so many worlds - NPC@annpc#557:- and species. Your Starfleet must be many times larger than the Arshai fleet.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra smiles, "Indeed it is. However it is also a very long way from here, so not able to help against the Horde at all.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "It is? How have you come to be here, then?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra: "Because we are explorers. I'm sure the Captain will take great pleasure in telling you all about our original mission, but suffice to say that we are a long way from home. In fact I think + Keelah@crystyl:+ it's been, hmm... 2-3 years - orbital cycles - since we left Federation space travelling rimwards.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta nods, "You are a long way away. We have some expeditions like the one the Emperor was on when he learned of the Bies, but never ones that go out that far. We usually only scout for - NPC@annpc#557:- resources around our own territory. But I hope one day we will go far enough to reach your Federation. I have many centuries left to live and I hope to see it one day.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra smiles, "The benefits of a longer lifespan. As for our mission, it is not unique for Starfleet as a number of deep space exploration missions will be on the go at any time. A one way trip + Keelah@crystyl:+ like ours however, it a bit more special I suppose.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "Did you come here specifically to find and deal with the Bies?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra shakes her head, "Actually... we came out here to find a way home" she chuckles, knowing full well how absurd it sound. NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta gives Kazra a confused look before staring at the surgical bed as she tries to rationalize it, then shakes her head, turning back to Kazra, "That...does not make sense.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra smiles, "See, a while back we discovered an Iconian gateway. We tracked it's fixed connection to a point somewhere out here towards the galactic rim. So, our mission was to find this + Keelah@crystyl:+ connecting gateway. It is not techinically a one way mission, but given it's indefinite duration it may as well be since we really have to find that gateway in order to get home again. This + Keelah@crystyl:+ business with the Horde..." she shakes her head despondently, "... has been far too diverting. Essential, but diverting.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "Interesting. So you are both searching for this gateway and fighting against the Bies now?” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra nods, "That pretty much sums us up, yep!” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "Perhaps once you find this gateway, if it is close enough, it may allow my people to visit your Federation without travelling for years.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra: "That would be nice. I would hate for us to go through all of this making friends here in the fight against the Bies, just to part ways and never see any of you again.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "It would be nice to meet more new peoples like you as well. Perhaps it may help the other Kingdoms be more understanding of differences and willing to change some of their ways.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra: "Believe it or not, that is the primary purpose of vessels like this; to venture out in the great 'beyond' and to meet new lifeforms and civilizations. It has been attractive purpose for + Keelah@crystyl:+ many, even when marred by more necessary defensive missions as this has become. Fortunately, circumstances still afford us the opportunity to meet many new people out here.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta: "Perhaps if my people interacted more with yours, we may create such vessels as well. I am pleased to be able to serve the Emperor and my own people, but I have always wondered what - NPC@annpc#557:- it would be like to work regularly with different species, and even learn about new ones as we encounter them.” Keelah@crystyl | Kazra: "Well, you never know where ventures like this will lead. but we've got a lot of work to do first else there may not be a galaxy left for you to explore.” NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta nods, "Yes, we need to deal with the Bies first. And make sure the Lodzki people survive to be able to meet more of your people." Keelah@crystyl | Kazra nods: "We've already started that process today. Tell you what, he will be resting for a few hours now so would you care to join me for some refreshment? I seldom get to meet anyone new with+ Keelah@crystyl:+ any real medical appreciation of things so it would be quite refreshing to exchange stories with a new face. We can do nothing here for now." NPC@annpc#557 | Melitta smiles, "That sounds good. I've never met many foreigners either- the Harcseen have sawbones, but they don't really...appreciate the academic side of things."