ST:TTV713 | "Once Enemies"

Stardate 98453.9

Surprise visitors show up in the Heart of War after Lycas takes a team through one of the Sphere's gateways to explore an Iconian subspace facility. One of these mysterious guests claim to recognize Nikki...

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NPR@annpc#557 | STARDATE 92541.4 NPR@annpc#557 | THE ICONIAN WAR NPR@annpc#557 | ROMULAN COLONY OF PILUM IV NPR@annpc#557 | The camera pans down to reveal the familiar shape of a Sentinel-class cruiser, but it is not the Valley Forge, showing none of the refit modifications. On its hull, the name and registry - NPR@annpc#557 - U.S.S. LEXINGTON, NCC 96721 is visible. The planet the Lexington orbits over flickers with an invisible aura, revealing the presence of a planetary shield which is currently being hit NPR@annpc#557 FX | https://i.imgur.com/cj8EB5l.jpg NPR@annpc#557 | The camera zooms in to show a small Romulan shuttle taking cover behind the Lexington as it evades a beam of energy, which is soaked up by the Sentinel’s shields. We follow the shuttle as it - NPR@annpc#557 - flies close to the Starfleet cruiser’s hull while the Lexington’s beam arrays light up, returning fire at whatever was shooting at the shuttle NPR@annpc#557 | Once the shuttle passes the Lexington, it is joined by two Danube runabouts and four Peregrine fighters emerging from the other side of the cruiser’s hull. The camera pans to view the seven - NPR@annpc#557 - craft from behind, giving a full view of a space battle where joint Starfleet and Romulan forces face off against the unmistakable shapes of Iconian and Elachi vessels NPR@annpc#557 FX | https://youtu.be/NsNiVIThWpE NPR@annpc#557 | The seven small craft swerve out of the way of a heavily damaged Galaxy refit, its three nacelles flickering erratically as it drifts. Several of the Elachi’s iconic crescent bolts pepper the - NPR@annpc#557 - cruiser’s hull, killing what power it has left. Multiple uniformed Starfleet personnel can be seen sucked out into space from the newly formed breaches NPR@annpc#557 | A squad of five Iconian fighters rush in and the area lights up with fire from both sides. Two of the Peregrines go down in explosions and a third is disabled and left adrift, while four enemy - NPR@annpc#557:- fighters are taken out. The surviving Iconian fighter darts past and doesn’t return, but instead a gateway opens behind the remaining four allied craft and an Iconian raider emerges... NPR@annpc#557 | The shuttle and runabouts fire but are unable to break through the raider’s shields. The last Peregrine fighter spins around to engage the new enemy, though despite its maneuverability, it is - NPR@annpc#557 - quickly taken out by the much more powerful raider. Still, it manages to buy its allies enough time to move out of the raider’s effective weapons range and the enemy fire is easily evaded NPR@annpc#557 | The raider rushes forward, continuing the chase. The superior Iconian technology becomes all too apparent as the ship rapidly begins closing the distance and catching up NPR@annpc#557 | The enemy’s shots come ever closer and closer to scoring a hit… NPR@annpc#557 FX | https://i.imgur.com/TYfCmZs.jpg NPR@annpc#557 ...when a refit T’liss warbird decloaks above the three small craft, firing at the incoming raider. The runabouts and shuttle join in, their focused attack disabling their pursuer’s forward shield NPR@annpc#557 | A glowing plasma torpedo from the warbird finishes the raider. The warbird promptly cloaks again to pick its next target and the camera zooms into the window of the Romulan shuttle... NPR@annpc#557 | Within, Centurion Nikki sits with the four other members of her team- Lieutenant Aemius, Sublieutenant Vetris, Decurion Mheven and Decurion Soddek NPR@annpc#557 | Vetris is piloting the shuttle and Aemius is in the copilot seat manning tactical systems while Nikki speaks to the Desmus’ captain through a video feed NPR@annpc#557 | Romulan Captain: “Apologies for not giving you the brief earlier, Centurion. Things are a bit hectic here and we needed your team en-route as fast as we could.” Nikki@crystyl waves a dismissive hand, "All came good in the end, Sir" NPR@annpc#557:| Romulan Captain: “Here’s the situation- the colony’s old shields are all but useless against the Heralds and their gateways, but the shield generators were the first things the Heralds captured. - NPR@annpc#557:- They’re keeping the shields online because their gateways can get past the shields but our transporters can’t. We’re punching holes just enough for small craft to fly through. Your objective is- NPR@annpc#557:- simple- take out the generator at these coordinates. In tandem with the other teams, we hope to bring down enough of the shield to beam down reinforcements or evacuate the colony.” Nikki@crystyl nods, "It will be done" NPR@annpc#557 | The Captain nods, "I'll see you back on the Desmus, Centurion." Nikki@crystyl looks to Vetris after the comm ends, "You heard the man. We're punching our way in" NPR@annpc#557 | Vetris nods and veers the shuttle towards the planet. The two runabouts do the same beside them NPR@annpc#557 | As they descend, Mheven announces from the rear of the craft, "Another gateway opening near us! Reading solar energy signatures!" Nikki@crystyl:"Vetris!" NPR@annpc#557 | The three craft quickly spiral into evasive maneuvers, but one of the runabouts isn't fast enough and the edge of the solar beam emerging from the gateway incinerates half the craft, sending - NPR@annpc#557 - the other half crashing into the shield below where it breaks up. The solar gateway however has the unintentional side effect of punching a hole through the shields for them... Nikki@crystyl:"There! They have given us an opening. Do not waste this" NPR@annpc#557 | Vetris: "I see it!" NPR@annpc#557 | Vetris taps quickly on her console and the shuttle dives down through the shield gap, followed by the remaining Danube runabout. The shields soon close behind them and the two small craft that - NPR@annpc#557 - made it through split up, each heading towards a different shield generator NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I'm picking up anti-air defenses on the shield facilities. Engaging it with our shuttle would be suicide. I suggest landing nearby and going in on foot." Nikki@crystyl:"Agreed. They will be looking for our shuttles after that entry too, no doubt. Find a clear spot to set down, we'll cover the rest of the ground on foot" NPR@annpc#557 | Vetris nods and soon sets down the shuttle in a deserted plaza near the generator facility, but well out of range of the AA defenses NPR@annpc#557 | The team proceed through the city streets warily, but for the most part, it seems to be a ghost town, with the residents hiding away as best as they can from the attackers. A few minutes of - NPR@annpc#557 - walking later though, they see disruptor fire erupting from a nearby building which seems to be a bar Nikki@crystyl signals her team to move in and assess NPR@annpc#557 | They take cover behind a nearby building and see six drones circling around the building, commanded by a tall and slender figure. One of the drones grabs someone and tries to pull them out - NPR@annpc#557 - through a window, but a disruptor shot from someone else inside takes out the drone, freeing its prisoner NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Elachi. These things took most of my colony. We can't let them kidnap the colonists here." Nikki@crystyl nods, "You two watch the drones, I'll take the Elachi down first" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, keeping his eyes on the drones Nikki@crystyl moves up steadily. Confident from her years growing up on a hunting lodge, this was just another hunt now NPR@annpc#557 | Fortunately, the Elachi and his drones seem focused on the bar, whose patrols are also fighting back, and don't notice Nikki's approach... Nikki@crystyl stalks her way into as good a position as she can before picking her moment to fire, aiming to drop it with a single headshot NPR@annpc#557 | Nikki takes out the Elachi! His drones continue to operate with their programming and don't stop however, now identifying her as a major threat. Her team opens fire, taking out and warding off - NPR@annpc#557:- the drones. Seeing that help has arrived, the armed patrons join in, their less accurate fire serving as a good distraction while the team picks off the drones NPR@annpc#557 | Before long, the remaining drones are down and the bar is clear of enemies Nikki@crystyl closes cautiously, "Anyone alive in there?" she calls out NPR@annpc#557 | Bartender: "Some of us are. Thanks for the help." Nikki@crystyl:"Does anyone need medical attention?" NPR@annpc#557 | Bartender: "Cholam here was hit by one of the drone's shots." NPR@annpc#557 | Mheven: "I can look at him." Nikki@crystyl nods and waves him up, "Do what you can" Nikki@crystyl joins the bartender in the meantime, "Once he's patched up I suggest you keep your heads down. This is only going to get messier from here" NPR@annpc#557 | Mheven steps over, giving the injured man a scan before injecting a hypo and running a medical instrument over his wound, while Aemius and Soddek cover the entrance NPR@annpc#557 | Bartender nods, "We weren't intending to draw their attention, but these drones started flying in and grabbing people. I'll get everyone who's still alive down to the cellar." Nikki@crystyl:"Good call. Provision what you can, but we'll be pushing back at them now" NPR@annpc#557 | Mheven motions another colonist over and instructs him on something before standing and making her way back to the team, "He'll need a proper medical facility eventually, but he's stable for - NPR@annpc#557:- now and should be fine for a few more hours. Let's get the generator down so he can be beamed to a ship's sickbay." Nikki@crystyl nods, "No time to waste. Good luck to you" she offers in parting to the bartender NPR@annpc#557 | Bartender: "You too." NPR@annpc#557 | The rest of the walk to the generator facility goes without incident. As they approach, Mheven checks her tricorder and declares, "Two entrances, each guarded by two Iconian Constructs. Six - NPR@annpc#557 - more Constructs inside and a basic Herald soldier, probably the leader of this small team." Nikki@crystyl:"Alright, let's get in without a fuss and take that Herald out before they can call reinforcements" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, "Agreed. We can break through the entrance quickly and Soddek can try and get a shot on the Herald." Nikki@crystyl:"Let's do it then" NPR@annpc#557 | The team get to cover outside the entrance, lining up their shots on the two Constructs on the door and looking to Nikki for the go-ahead to engage Nikki@crystyl waits for the opportune moment, then signals the team to begin the attack NPR@annpc#557 | The team quickly takes out the two Construct guards and proceed inside, grabbing the nearest cover. As Aemius and Vetris fire into the room and keep the Herald distracted, Soddek lines up a - NPR@annpc#557 - headshot, taking out the preoccupied Herald before he can summon aid NPR@annpc#557 | The remaining Constructs exchange fire with the team, with the two from the other entrance stepping in to reinforce the six within NPR@annpc#557 | The Constructs go down quickly without their Herald leader, but as their numbers dwindle to three, one of them begins covering the other damaged two as they try to fuse together... Nikki@crystyl focuses on the one that thinks it's clever NPR@annpc#557 | The rest of the team focuses on the rest and the Constructs fall before they can merge, clearing the room! NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Now to blow this generator...a few demo charges should do it." Nikki@crystyl nods, "Work your magic" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius nods and sets the charges before stepping back. With the press of his tricorder, the generator goes down in an explosion NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "There! Back to the shuttle now?" Nikki@crystyl:"Unless you'd prefer to take in the sights?" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Maybe once the war is over. Looks like a pretty enough colony when the Iconians aren't invading." Nikki@crystyl:"Don't they all" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, "But first, let's make sure it stays that way." Nikki@crystyl:"Agreed" NPR@annpc#557 | As they step out of the generator facility, they see an Elachi ship descending from the sky. As it reaches the surface, it transforms itself into a towering walker just outside the facility. - NPR@annpc#557 - The walker opens fire, not at them but into the distance, where there is an explosion NPR@annpc#557 | Vetris: "I...believe that was our shuttle." NPR@annpc#557 | A swarm of drones begin to emerge from the Elachi walker.. NPR@annpc#557 | Soddek: "If that thing can get through, it means the shields are down. We can call the Desmus for evac." Nikki@crystyl sighs, "Once. Just once I'd like things to go to plan. That's not much of an ask really..." Nikki@crystyl nods to Soddek, "It's our best bet at this point" tapping her wristcomp to hail the ship NPR@annpc#557 <C - Captain> Centurion, are you alright? Several Elachi ships jumped right past us and one of them landed near your location Nikki@crystyl:<C> We're good, but I can't say as much for our shuttle. Mission complete, but we need out NPR@annpc#557:<C - Captain> Transporting you back up...we got a problem. You're inside the reach of the Elachi's shields. We can't beam you up until you get out of it, and we can't hit the ships on the surface - NPR@annpc#557:- from our position in orbit Nikki@crystyl:<C> Figures. Can you give us an evac point to aim for? NPR@annpc#557:<C - Captain> Sending it now NPR@annpc#557 | However, the swarm of drones close in, forcing the team to retreat back inside the facility or be overwhelmed... Nikki@crystyl:"Survive now, evac later. Back inside before they swarm us" NPR@annpc#557 | The team rushes inside with Aemius and Mheven giving covering fire. Once they are past the door. Vetris quickly seals it NPR@annpc#557 | Mheven: "The door on the other side, we might be able to get out there!" Nikki@crystyl:"Move!" she agrees as they run NPR@annpc#557 | They rush over to the other side and open the door, but find drones on the other side as well. Aemius fires his rifle at full automatic, keeping them back as Vetris seals that door as well NPR@annpc#557 | Vetris: "So much for that plan." Nikki@crystyl scans the facility for other potential routes NPR@annpc#557 | There doesn't seem to be any other exits. Aemius meanwhile steps over to a nearby console, tapping on it NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Well...I have good and bad news." Nikki@crystyl:"Let's have it" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Good news is the AA cannons still have some power to them. Not enough to get through that walker's hull, but they can keep the drone swarm at bay long enough for you to break out - NPR@annpc#557:- through one of the entrances and make it to the evac point." Nikki@crystyl:"And the bad news?" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Targeting system's fried. I have to operate the cannons manually from here." Nikki@crystyl:"Then carve a way out. We'll push them back and then make a run together" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, "Activating the cannons now..." NPR@annpc#557 | The sound of the AA cannons can be heard firing from the facility, followed by the clattering of multiple drones onto the roof NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "The drones are diverting to deal with the cannons! This is our chance, open the door and go! I'll be right behind you!" Nikki@crystyl nods, "On it, be ready!" NPR@annpc#557 | Vetris nods and opens the door, where only a handful of drones are now waiting. The team opens fire, taking them out quickly and clearing the way Nikki@crystyl:"Aemius!" she shouts back impatiently NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Go! Don't wait for me!" Nikki@crystyl:"Not happening. Now quit playing hero and get over here before I have to stun your ass and drag you out" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "The cannon needs to keep them occupied and it won't fire automatically! I'll make a run for it once you step outside, but first I have to cover you so you can cover me!" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "They'll come back for us the moment I stop firing, so you need to be in a position to take them out while I exit!" Nikki@crystyl:"Dammit Aemius the team is covering you right now" *pewpewpew to prove the point*, "Now move!" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Fine," he unslings his rifle and makes for the entrance, "Let's go!" Nikki@crystyl grumbles, pushing ahead before they lose the chance they made NPR@annpc#557 | The team rushes out of the facility. As the cannon stops firing, the bulk of the drones immediately swoop in towards the team. The team shoots as they run. Soddek takes a glancing hit on his - NPR@annpc#557:- shoulder and drops his rifle but continues sprinting. They soon begin to near the evac point, with Aemius in the rear as he exited the facility last, and his full auto rifle gives them the best - NPR@annpc#557:- covering fire as they run Nikki@crystyl does her best to cover the team while they move NPR@annpc#557 | They manage to make it out of the Elachi walker's shield cover, but despite their best efforts, the drone swarm closes in. Aemius stops shooting and makes a sprint for it, but a drone grabs - NPR@annpc#557 - him and begins pulling him back into the walker's shield Nikki@crystyl skids to a halt, turning to fire, "Aemius, hold on!" NPR@annpc#557 | Aemius struggles to free himself from the drone to no avail. Nikki is unable to get a good shot on the drone holding him, and neither are any of the others Nikki@crystyl hesitates briefly before narrowing her eyes with determination and shifting her aim onto Aemius and firing to give him a quick and honourable end NPR@annpc#557 | Unfortunately, the drone's erratic movements and Aemius' own struggling jerks the two at the last minute. The shot clearly still hits Aemius somewhere, but before Nikki is able to confirm - NPR@annpc#557 - Aemius' death or fire a followup shot, the two disappear into the cover of multiple other drones of the swarm that erupt forwards towards the team NPR@annpc#557 | Soddek draws his pistol with his good hand, joining the shooting as best as he can Nikki@crystyl lowers her weapon, "It's done. All we can do is pray for him now, come on we're not out of this yet!" NPR@annpc#557 | The team continues running as the drones chase behind them, and they turn the corner to the evac point! Nikki@crystyl comms for evac as they approach NPR@annpc#557 | The team is immediately beamed up as they arrive at the evac point, the drones reaching their position just seconds after. They all pause at once upon their targets' escape, hovering in place - NPR@annpc#557 - for a second before returning to the walker NPR@annpc#557 | The camera pans out, showing a number of walkers landed on the planet's surface. Several Peregrine Fighters are seen making attack runs on them as the camera zooms out from the planet NPR@annpc#557 | In orbit, the battle continues to rage on, with debris from both sides of the battle littering the planet's orbit. Pieces of familiar ships can be seen- the hull of an Akira-class cruiser, the - NPR@annpc#557 - derelict form of a T'varo warbird, the heavily battered mid-section of a separated Prometheus NPR@annpc#557 | The camera continues zooming out until the battle and even the planet can no longer be seen, and all that remains visible is the star of the system, which is now a single speck among hundreds - NPR@annpc#557 - of others NPR@annpc#557 FX | https://youtu.be/cjaejG-LDAQ --- NPC@annpc#557 | PRESENT DAY NPC@annpc#557 | On the bridge of the Valley Forge, TQ informs Keelah that all teams are ready to activate their respective facilities Keelah@crystyl nods, "Tell them to proceed" NPC@annpc#557 | TQ nods and sends the go-ahead. A few minutes later, she announces, "Incoming call from Professor Lycas." Keelah@crystyl:"Let's have it" NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> Captain. The gateway activation here is successful, and our probe confirms it leads to a subspace facility Keelah@crystyl:"Very good. You are clear to proceed" NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> Our team is preparing to enter now. We will keep you up to date as often as we are able Keelah@crystyl:"Good luck professor" NPC@annpc#557 | A few more minutes pass quietly before Vrolmacht announces, "Horde ships are moving towards a number of the reactivated facilities as we anticipated." Keelah@crystyl:"Deploy the fleet to feign a defense at the decoy locations" NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods, tapping his console, "Coalition forces are responding. Time to Horde arrival at the facility nearest to the centre is fifteen minutes." Keelah@crystyl:"Tee, update the core teams" NPC@annpc#557 | TQ: "On it." NPC@annpc#557 | A little over fifteen minutes later, Vrolmacht updates the bridge with, "The Horde has been repelled from the first facility. Skirmishes are breaking out near two others." Keelah@crystyl:"Remind the decoy defenders not to take risks and pull out when necessary. The demolitions will do the rest" NPC@annpc#557 | Vrolmacht nods, "Reminder sent. One of the defender groups is breaking off. Another Horde group appears to be headed towards the facility Lycas' gateway is at. I do not believe they are aware - NPC@annpc#557:- of the gateway but has simply chosen that target by chance. The composition is similar to the other attack groups." Keelah@crystyl:"Inform the teams and defenders" NPC@annpc#557 | A few seconds later, Lycas comms back NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> Captain...can you read me... Keelah@crystyl:<C> We ready you Professor. What's the situation? NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> ...comms are slightly...broadcast back from the probe. We...capable of accessing the gateway controls from within this facility, but...only new function is withdrawing the ship gateways - NPC@annpc#557:- to an inac...within subspace. As ex...gateways cannot be turned on without...ient power in the Sphere systems themselves. Keelah@crystyl:<C> Do what you can, at least to hide the Forged Earth gateway, and get yourselves out of there before the Horde turn up NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> Understood. Th...Earth gateway is not a ship gateway and cannot be move...to subspace, though I am able to erase records of the gateway an...destination from the records Keelah@crystyl:<C> That will suffice NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> Erasing now. We wi...on our way out as soon as possible Keelah@crystyl:<C> Be sure that you are. We'll be waiting for you --- Lycas@annpc#557 | On the facility, Lycas and his team emerge from the gateway Lycas@annpc#557 looks to Emma, "Signal one of the Coalition vessels to pick us up. I will update the Captain." Emma Ralde@crystyl nods, "On it" turning and tapping her combadge to make the call Lycas@annpc#557 | A few seconds later, the team is beamed up... Lycas@annpc#557 ...and materialize in the transporter room of a ship with a distinct High Orion aesthetic. An armoured Orion male waits for them just off the pad Emma Ralde@crystyl looks around and smiles, "So this is all it takes for me to see what the OSN has achieved?" smiles to Lycas, "We'll have do these complex subspace sabotage missions more often, clearly!" Lycas@annpc#557 | Orion Male: "Welcome to the Kayeri Vaj. The Horde forces are almost here, best follow me to somewhere you can have a seat and brace, just in case." Emma Ralde@crystyl nods, smiling with approval at the name as she follows Lycas@annpc#557 | The male leads them to the currently empty mess hall, "Stay here. The couches are built into the floor and should keep you stable during the fighting." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Thanks. If we can be of any help, just call" Lycas@annpc#557 | The male nods and smiles, "Will do." Emma Ralde@crystyl makes herself comfortable, "Well, guess there's nothing now but to sit back and watch the show" Lycas@annpc#557 | He heads off, leaving them in the mess hall. Lycas takes a seat on a couch as well, "It seems so." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Your expertise is impressive, you know. You made real short work of sorting that place out" Lycas@annpc#557:"Thank you. Even after spending much of my recent years familiarizing myself with Iconian technology, there is still much I do not fully understand. Fortunately, the systems we dealt with today - Lycas@annpc#557:- were ones Starfleet have studied extensively following the complications of our first encounter with them." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Yes, I would not have fancied getting trapped in an endless void of subspace networks" she chuckles Lycas@annpc#557:"Indeed. Especially when some of these subspace locations are inhabited by dangerous species such as the Solanae." Emma Ralde@crystyl shudders at the thought Lycas@annpc#557:"Perhaps it was luck or our haste which led us not to encounter any today," he looks out the window as Horde ships begin coming into view. "They are an additional complication we do not need." Emma Ralde@crystyl looks out as well, "Indeed, we have enough of those to go around I think" Lycas@annpc#557 | The OSN ships soon begin opening fire as the Horde come into range. The Kayeri Vaj rocks slightly as the shields absorb a hit Lycas@annpc#557 | As they watch the skirmish, a ship suddenly pops into view in the middle of the battlefield, in the same manner as the spore drive powered Regulator ship Lycas@annpc#557 FX | https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/sto_gamepedia/images/0/06/Ship_Variant_-_ALL_-_Elachi_Qulash_Frigate_%28T6%29.png/revision/latest?cb=20190929162520 Emma Ralde@crystyl sits up, "Well that's unexpected" Lycas@annpc#557 | Finding itself in the middle of a crossfire, the sudden Elachi ship promptly begins taking fire from both sides Lycas@annpc#557 | The comm in the mess hall sounds Emma Ralde@crystyl staggers over to the wall panel as they take a hit, "Emma here. What's going on?" Lycas@annpc#557:<C - Kayd> This is Tabadi Kayd. Any of you Starfleet types can tell me where that ship came from and whose side it's supposed to be on? Emma Ralde@crystyl:<C> Negative, we weren't told of any reinforcements. I know the Elachi and Regulators work together so it could be one of them maybe? Lycas@annpc#557:<C - Kayd> We're hailing them but they're not responding. I'm informing all ships to try not to hit it, but it's taking a lotta damage in the crossfire... Lycas@annpc#557 | The Elachi ship seems to be trying to move out of the crossfire, but is soon left drifting as a Horde ship disables its engine. It begins firing back on the Horde with its signature crescent bolts Emma Ralde@crystyl glances out of the window, "It looks like they're not firing on us at least. I suggest going with it and keeping them in the fight. Those weapons of theirs should keep the Horde off balance" Lycas@annpc#557 | Their attacks do seem to keep the Horde off balance and the OSN press the attack, soon beginning to push the Horde back, but not before the Horde focus fire on the mysterious Elachi vessel Lycas@annpc#557 | The Horde make a retreat back for the centre of the Sphere, but the Elachi ship is left with heavy damage Lycas@annpc#557 <C - Kayd> The structural integrity of our mystery ally is failing and we can't reinforce it for long. Do you think it's a good idea to beam survivors over? Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Despite common Romulan beliefs, they are not all 'mysterious boogeymen' who show up out of subspace to kidnap people. They are different, but I have a connection with them. If you want to gather - Emma Ralde@crystyl:- survivors I will do all I can to assist" Lycas@annpc#557 <C - Kayd> Alright, I'm beaming them over now Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Should I head back to the transporter or are you grouping them straight in elsewhere?" Lycas@annpc#557:<C - Kayd> The transporter. I'm sending guards there, but if their ship wasn't shooting at us, they're probably not here to attack us or anything Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Still best to be safe. I'll head straight over there and setup a dialogue" Lycas@annpc#557:<C - Kayd> Agreed. Be careful with them, Emma Lycas@annpc#557 stands, "An unexpected turn of events. I will accompany you." Emma Ralde@crystyl nods, "A curious arrival" as they head out Lycas@annpc#557 | Returning to the transporter, they find multiple armed Orion males outside, with a couple on the other side of the door. In the transporter room are a number of Elachi, all standing silently Emma Ralde@crystyl looks around at the Elachi, "It's ok, you're on the Orion ship. Who of you in charge?" Lycas@annpc#557 | The Elachi look at one another silently before one of them steps forward, "What...are you...doing...here." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"I was going to ask you the same thing. You picked one hell of a spot to appear in" Lycas@annpc#557 | The Elachi seems to speak with some effort, "Combat...unexpected." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"No kidding. We're sorry to have pulled you all out so suddenly, but your ship took heavy damage and I don't think the Orion ships could sustain it. So why are you here?" Lycas@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Temperance...with gateway systems...detected." Emma Ralde@crystyl glances to Lycas, "They must have detected our move to the facility and come to investigate" Lycas@annpc#557 nods, "That would explain how they located us and appeared right by the facility we were at." Lycas@annpc#557 | Elachi: "In-investigate. Investigate. Source gateway...iden-ti-fied. Location...lost. Location...impossible. Investigate. Masters bid." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Figures..." she looks back to the Elachi, "I think we can explain the activation you detected. But... who are these Masters?" Lycas@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Builders...of this...ins-tal-lation. Builders...of gateway systems." Emma Ralde@crystyl slowly tilts her head in a little, "You're talking about the... Iconians?" Lycas@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Ico-ni-ans. Yes. Iconians." Emma Ralde@crystyl looks back to Lycas, "What do you think? Maybe those survivors from the war who went into hiding?" Lycas@annpc#557:"That is the most likely possibility. The only other Iconian we are aware of is on board the Valley Forge and likely does not possess the knowledge or means to summon Elachi here." Lycas@annpc#557 | The Elachi points to Lycas, "You...leader?" Lycas@annpc#557:"I led the team that ventured through the gateway, but I do not command this vessel, nor the vessel we come from." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"They will be eager to speak to you, and your Masters I'd wager" Lycas@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Speak...leader. Iconians...not hiding. I-so-la-tion. Collect information. Bring to Masters." Emma Ralde@crystyl nods, "We're heading back to our vessel shortly now and you can speak with our leader then, and..." she smiles, "...one of your Masters" Lycas@annpc#557 | The Elachi quirks his head, "Masters...isolation. Not...in this...installation." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Whilst that is technically true, we... well, you can see for yourself soon enough. Will you all be ok here for a short time until we get back to our ship?" Lycas@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Yes. Will...wait." Lycas@annpc#557:"I should update the Captain and inform her that we will be expecting guests." Emma Ralde@crystyl nods, "Please do. I should probably stay here with them for now" Lycas@annpc#557 nods, "Let me know if you require anything, and keep me informed of any developments." Lycas@annpc#557 steps out to comm Keelah Emma Ralde@crystyl watches over her shoulder and turns back to the Elachi. Totally not awkward as they all stare at her Lycas@annpc#557 | The Elachi continue to stare silently at Emma. The one who spoke looks away briefly to exchange a gaze with one wearing an eyepiece, then look back at her Emma Ralde@crystyl smiles, "So... First time in the Heart of War? Lycas@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Yes. Location...lost. Masters...unaware. Investigate." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Your Masters... lost this location? Wow... Explains why we had such a hard time finding it then" Lycas@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Yes. Lost. Not know...how. Masters know details." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Hopefully we can get in touch with them now that you're here, then we can find out" Lycas@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Masters...isolation. Relay information for Masters. Investigate." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Don't worry. Our leaders can get you up to speed, but if your Masters remember this place then I would be very surprised if they chose to stay in isolation once you report to them" Lycas@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Will...relay to Masters. Speak...with leaders first. Investigate first." Emma Ralde@crystyl:"Of course" --- NPC@annpc#557 | Back on the VF bridge, Keelah receives an update from Lycas... NPC@annpc#557 <C - Lycas> Captain, there has been a development Keelah@crystyl:<C> What kind of development... NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> During the skirmish with the Horde attackers, an Elachi vessel appeared in the midst of the crossfire. It aided in driving off the Horde forces, but suffered critical damage in the - NPC@annpc#557:- process. The Kayeri Vaj has recovered the survivors and we are on our way back to the Valley Forge with them now Keelah@crystyl:<C> The Elachi? That is indeed quite the unpredicted development. Presumably it is connected to your use of the gateway into the subspace facility NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> That is correct. Ensign Ralde has been communicating with them. It seems we alerted the Iconian survivors to our location and they dispatched an Elachi scouting party to investigate Keelah@crystyl:<C> They are servants of the surviving Iconians? This is... precarious. What is the status of their ship? NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> Beyond repair. Their structural integrity field has failed. The OSN were only able to reinforce it for long enough to transport the survivors over Keelah@crystyl:<C> Then I will leave it to the OSN's discretion if they want to attempt to salvage it for our new guests. Very well, do you know how many survivors there are and if we are to accommodate them, or - Keelah@crystyl:- if the OSN plan to? NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> There are nine survivors. They do not appear to be particularly proficient at verbal communication. We are unaware of what accommodations they may require, though they have asked to - NPC@annpc#557:- speak with our 'leaders.' They are being brought to the Valley Forge for now; it remains to be seen whether they will stay after receiving the answers they require Keelah@crystyl:<C> My concern is that without their ship, they may not have a choice in the matter. Very well, we will gather them in one of the function rooms for now - make them feel more comfortable than sitting- Keelah@crystyl:- at a conference table. We'll see what we learn from there NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> I suggest contacting the Regulator vessel as well. They have an Elachi who is more accustomed to verbal communication and living among other species Keelah@crystyl:<C> An excellent suggestion, thank you Professor NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> I will see you upon our arrival and keep you updated if the situation changes here, Captain Keelah@crystyl:<C> Very good, we'll see you soon. Oh, and if you get the chance please do express my gratitude to Tabadi Kayd for her swift action and your safe recovery NPC@annpc#557:<C - Lycas> I shall pass along your gratitude Keelah@crystyl stands after the comm ends, "Open a channel to the Regulators and inform them of the situation. Their Elachi is welcome to join us if they wish it" Keelah@crystyl meanwhile heads off to find their resident Iconian and make preparations to receive their guests Keelah@crystyl makes her way down to V'Elo's quarters where she chimes the door on arrival NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo: "Enter." Keelah@crystyl steps in with a pleasant smile, "Hello V'Elo, I'm not interrupting anything am I?" NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo is sitting behind a desk, looking through the computer on it. She stands as Keelah steps in, "Captain. No, I was just browsing through your databanks to learn as much as I can." Keelah@crystyl gives it a curious glance, "Anything particular that is piquing your interest?" NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo: "Oh, plenty! There is so much information on different planets and cultures in your computers. Hard to believe all this only accounts for a small fraction of the galaxy. No wonder you - NPC@annpc#557 - are always trying to explore!" Keelah@crystyl smiles, "You certainly seem to have the heart of an explorer" NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo smiles back, "There's so much to learn! So...what brings you to come all the way to my quarters to visit me?" Keelah@crystyl:"A weak excuse to pay a long overdue visit to a valued guest" she offers in light jest. "But in all seriousness, there has been a development that I thought you would be interested in" NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo: "Oh? What has happened?" Keelah@crystyl:"Tell me, in your research have you come across a species called Elachi yet?" NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo: "I have come across the name several times, I believe...they travel through subspace and were involved in a number of conflicts with your Alliance, if I am not mistaken?" Keelah@crystyl nods, "They are not enemies, but they are not exactly allies either. They keep to themselves and are something of a mystery to us for the most part. That said, one of their ships has just arrived - Keelah@crystyl:- here and been caught in the crossfire between the Coalition and Horde. We have survivors on their way back here now" NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo: "Arrived here? Why? How do they even know to come here?" Keelah@crystyl:"That's the part that may interest you; apparently when our team activated the gateway to access the subspace facility, it drew their attention. Or rather, that of their so-called 'masters' - the - Keelah@crystyl:- Iconians" NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo: "The ones that you fought a war with?" Keelah@crystyl:"That is our current estimate, yes" she nods, "Either way, we don't know much until they get here. But given their claim to a connection with the survivors of your race I thought you might want to - Keelah@crystyl:- join us and learn more for yourself" NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo: "I would certainly wish to. Thank you for coming to inform and invite me, Captain." Keelah@crystyl smiles, "These are the reasons we are out here. Come on then, we are greeting them in one of the unused lounges" NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo smiles back and follows Keelah out. As they walk, her combadge sounds Keelah@crystyl taps, "Se'Lai" NPC@annpc#557:<C - Vrolmacht> Captain. The Regulator ship has arrived and the Elachi Navigator will be transporting over now. The Kayeri Vaj is still seven minutes out Keelah@crystyl:<C> Perfect. Please have the Navigator shown to the lounge on 8, we're hosting the Elachi there NPC@annpc#557:<C - Vrolmacht> I'll inform him immediately Keelah@crystyl continues to the meeting place with V'Elo NPC@annpc#557 | They arrive at the meeting place and the Navigator soon strolls in behind them Keelah@crystyl looks over, "Hello... Navigator, was it?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Yes. Officially, I am an Operator like any other, but most refer to me as Navigator due to my unique role on the vessel." Keelah@crystyl:"You must be the one who worked with our Ensign Ralde previously then. Thank you for taking such good care of her then" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "It was my pleasure to work with such a unique individual. And without her assistance, none of us on my vessel would be here now." NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo looks between the Navigator and Keelah, "So...he is an Elachi?" Keelah@crystyl nods, "Yes, this is Navigator. Navigator, allow me introduce V'Elo - our resident Iconian" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "So this is her. It is good to finally meet you, V'Elo." NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo smiles, "It's good to meet you too, Navigator. Do you know about these others of my people?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "No, I do not, though I know many of my people departed to work with them. I have not encountered them myself." Keelah@crystyl:"That is what we believe to be the case for the Elachi survivors who are on their way here" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "The faction I am associated with do not agree with many of their ways, but I will likely still be able to facilitate clearer communication with them." Keelah@crystyl:"We appreciate your taking the time to assist in this. I hope we are not putting you in a position of discomfort at all" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Not at all. Our factions typically coexist in peace; we may not approve of their ways, but we know they are set on them, and waging conflict will only bring more problems. So - NPC@annpc#557:- we live our way and they live theirs." Keelah@crystyl:"Fair enough. And on the subject of comfort, is there anything we can do to make this environment more welcoming for them?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Yes, but it will make the environment toxic for you, so I would not recommend it, at least while you are present." NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "A small increase in humidity may be the best compromise." Keelah@crystyl smiles, "That does sound more achievable than a toxic atmosphere" she chuckles, moving to a wall panel to make the adjustments, "How is that?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Better, thank you." Keelah@crystyl:"What about food or refreshment, is there anything we can make available for your people?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "If I may, I can upload a few patterns into your replicators." Keelah@crystyl:"By all means. I imagine they have been through quite the trauma since arriving right into the crossfire of our fight with the Horde, then losing their ship. I want to make sure they feel welcome - Keelah@crystyl:- and comfortable here" NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator nods and heads over to work on the replicator. As he does, Keelah's combadge sounds again Keelah@crystyl taps, "Se'Lai" NPC@annpc#557:<C - Vrolmacht> The Kayeri Vaj has arrived in transporter range, Captain Keelah@crystyl:<C> Thank you for the update. We're just about ready down here NPC@annpc#557:<C - Vrolmacht> Should I instruct them to beam over now, or wait a few more minutes? Keelah@crystyl:<C> They may proceed when ready NPC@annpc#557:<C - Vrolmacht> Understood --- NPC@annpc#557 | Meanwhile, Nikki is on her way to start her duties for the day, walking through the halls when she sees the familiar figures of Elachi strolling through a hall ahead of her, escorted by security Keelah@crystyl | Nikki tenses on instinct at the sight of them and moves to investigate their presence NPC@annpc#557 | Nikki notices that these Elachi are dressed the same way as the ones she fought during the war. They proceed through the hall in their usual silent, eerie manner, but the security personnel - NPC@annpc#557:- are keeping an eye on them, with Silvestrie himself present and leading the way Keelah@crystyl | Nikki hustles along to catch up with him, "Malcolm, what's going on?" NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie: "Apparently these guys just popped up in the middle of a fight between the OSN and the Horde. Their ship was lost in the crossfire and here they are." Keelah@crystyl | Nikki glances back at the Elachi briefly, "I see. You know, it will probably just be palmed off as Romulan distrust; but these Elachi are familiar. I think they might the same ones who attacked - Keelah@crystyl:- Romulan colonies and kidnapped our people during the war" NPC@annpc#557 | As Nikki says that, she notices that one of the Elachi have walked up beside them are seem to be scrutinizing her closely Keelah@crystyl | Nikki turns with narrowed eyes, "You have something to say, or just eavesdropping?" NPC@annpc#557 | The Elachi looks back to the others, then to Nikki NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Know...you." Keelah@crystyl | Nikki turns, stopping dead in her tracks and blocking their way, "Excuse me?" NPC@annpc#557 | The Elachi simply repeats, "Know...you." Keelah@crystyl | Nikki: "I heard you the first time. Let's try something else... /how/ do you know me?" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Not...know...how." Keelah@crystyl | Nikki pinches the bridge of her nose, "I was no doubt just another faceless Romulan victim you chased from her home while kidnapping our families for your experiments" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Have not...taken...people. Know...you. Not know...how." NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie: "I was told these ones have some...trouble communicating. We've got the Elachi Navigator from the Regulator ship to assist. Why don't you come with us to the lounge and see if he - NPC@annpc#557 - can clear things up?" Keelah@crystyl | Nikki huffs a little, "An Elachi who hasn't taken innocent people from their homes? Yeah right..." she looks back to Silvestrie, "Do you think that will be ok?" NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie nods, "As long as you won't do anything rash. You've got experience with Elachi, right? Even if it's negative experience, it might count for something." Keelah@crystyl | Nikki gives pause for thought, eyeing the Elachi with Romulan judgement before turning and continuing along their route, "Very well. I am duty bound after all to help ensure the safety of my ship- Keelah@crystyl:- and crew, and would be negligent to allow such a threat to roam the halls without my oversight" Keelah@crystyl which translates into non-Romulan as, "Yes thank you, I would very much like to resolve this deeply personal issue" NPC@annpc#557 | Silvestrie: "Come with me, then." Keelah@crystyl | Nikki, "If you insist" she calls back over her shoulder, already now leading the way NPC@annpc#557 | Not long after, Nikki and Silvestrie enter the lounge with the Elachi and the other security personnel Keelah@crystyl looks over, "Sub-Commander, it is... unexpected to see you escorting visitors, though somehow I am not surprised that you found your way to it on this occasion" Keelah@crystyl | Nikki bows her head a little, "I apologize for the intrusion Captain and will leave on your command, but there is a suggested connection between myself and these Elachi that we were hoping your - Keelah@crystyl:- translator could help us fathom." she glances back in disgust, "They are... frustratingly inept at conveying their thoughts" Keelah@crystyl:"Well, if there's a chance it will help things I have no objection" she looks to the Navigator, then the other Elachi, "But first, please come in and make yourselves comfortable" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "We communicate in a manner not unlike your telepathy, though it would be closer to the bond shared by the Guardians through the NirTess tree, as we cannot commune our thoughts with - NPC@annpc#557 - those who are not Elachi. Because of this, some of us are unused to verbal speech." NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator inclines his head towards the others, who begin to settle around the room Keelah@crystyl surmises almost more to herself, "That probably explains why Emma resonates so strongly with your kind" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "That is correct," he looks to Nikki, "What is this suggested connection you speak of?" Keelah@crystyl | Nikki shakes her head, "I am uncertain. I only know that I recognize them, I think... and that one-" she points to the she spoke with, "-says it knows me, but claims not to know how" NPC@annpc#557 | The one stares at Nikki as she points to it Keelah@crystyl | Nikki adds, "/I/ believe they were responsible for attacks on Romulan colonies during the war and kidnapping our families, but it claims to have never taken people" Keelah@crystyl 's brow furrows with disapproval at the Romulan's tone, but she remains silent for now out of sympathy and understanding for the difficult situation NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "I will investigate. Give me a moment." Keelah@crystyl takes the moment to join Nikki, "I appreciate the nature of your situation here, but please to remember that these are our guests" Keelah@crystyl | Nikki gives a small nod, understanding she was pushing the boundaries a little NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator steps over while the lead Elachi approaches Keelah, looking between her and V'Elo Keelah@crystyl looks between the Elachi and V'Elo NPC@annpc#557 | V'Elo: "Hello! You know about the Iconians?" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi Leader: "Yes...some. Serve Iconians. Not often see. Never commune. This one...re-semble?" Keelah@crystyl:"This one is called V'Elo. She is Iconian, but as they used to be" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi Leader: "Yes. Different. This one...flesh. Not like Masters. But...see resemble." Keelah@crystyl smiles, "It is reassuring that you see the resemblance" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi Leader: "How? Iconians...gone. Only Masters...remain." Keelah@crystyl:"We thought so too. V'Elo was recreated here after we found her records in a genetic archive" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi Leader: "Interes-ting. Archive...in this installation?" Keelah@crystyl:"Yes, it is part of why we are fighting to protect it from the Horde" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi Leader: "Horde?" Keelah@crystyl nods, "That is what we call them, yes. The ones who crippled your ship after you arrived. They are thralls of a rogue Progenitor, likely known to your Masters" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi Leader: "Horde seek...control installation?" Keelah@crystyl:"They seek to control everything, everyone. Stopping them is the reason your masters first built this place" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi Leader: "Control...every thing? How?" Keelah@crystyl:"That may take a little explanation... Do you understand what I mean by Children species?" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi Leader: "Yes. Created by first ones. Like V'Elo. Like this one," he points at Keelah Keelah@crystyl nods, "That's right. Well this particular 'first one' - the Architect - planted a means in all Children genetics for him to enslave their minds. The result is the Horde" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi Leader: "This Arch-i-tect...seek enslave every thing?" Keelah@crystyl:"In short, yes. Your Masters once stood against him - they built this facility, the Heart of War, to combat him - though much has changed in the time since then, including your Masters, I believe - Keelah@crystyl:- they would want to know that this threat has re-emerged and is here" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi Leader: "Will relay...information." NPC@annpc#557 | As the Elachi Leader looks back towards the others, seemingly communicating telepathically with them, the Navigator steps back to the group NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "I think I have an idea of what's going on." Keelah@crystyl watches the Elachi briefly, curious s to how they are relaying this to the Iconians so far away, "That is reassuring. What have you learned?" NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator notices her gaze and comments, "It seems like they're discussing what you've just told them among themselves now," before waving them away from the other Elachi to the far side - NPC@annpc#557 - of the lounge NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "The Elachi I communed with is speaking the truth. He has, at least not personally, never taken anyone before." Keelah@crystyl follows before continuing, "I assume this is somewhat sensitive" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "It...may be. The key point of contention between the Elachi faction I belong to and the sects that joined the Iconians is the matter of our reproduction. We take those who are - NPC@annpc#557 - nearing the end of their lives, and with their permission, transform them into Elachi. On occasion, there are others who give us their permission despite not reaching the end of their natural - NPC@annpc#557:- life, for desire of a second chance or simply the benefits that come with the transformation. Our sect emphasizes consent, and we never transform another without their permission. Other sects - NPC@annpc#557:- take those at the end of their lives and transform them regardless of whether permission is given, not unlike the Kobali who reside on the far side of the galaxy from here. But many sects believe - NPC@annpc#557:- either of these means of reproduction are too slow, and they take people by force, even ones who are far from the end of their lives. These were the ones who joined the Iconians, because the Iconians - NPC@annpc#557:- promised that their conquest would provide increased supplies of people for them to convert into Elachi. Unfortunately, due to their practices, these Elachi have become the most numerous of us." Keelah@crystyl | Mischa steps up behind Keelah, chiming in, "And that is why the Navigator's people have the reputation they do; it is this sect - allied with the Iconians - who facilitated the connection between- Keelah@crystyl - them and the Tal Shiar, setting up for the Iconians return to conquest" Keelah@crystyl turns with a slightly raised brow, "It is good to see you too, Commander" Keelah@crystyl | Mischa smiles innocently, "I heard you were having a little afternoon soiree" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Commander. Good of you to join us. You are well-informed, as always." Keelah@crystyl | Mischa smiles, bowing her head slightly in kind to the Navigator Keelah@crystyl hrms, looking back to the Navigator, "Though I am almost afraid to ask, how does this explain the connection to Nikki?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "As you would expect, forced convertees do not make for very willing members of society. I retain my memories and my identity as Operator 9090-241-006, as I was willingly - NPC@annpc#557 - transformed near the end of a Regulator's natural lifespan. The sects who have joined the Iconians commonly suppress the memories of an Elachi's past life, as many of them were forcibly taken - NPC@annpc#557:- away from their old lives. Suppressed- not truly erased." Keelah@crystyl:"Many... including this one who says he knows Nikki. So he was presumably a forced convertee taken from one of the Romulan colonies" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "That is my suspicion. He does not know her from his time as an Elachi, but the time before then, a time he cannot remember, yet there are still lingering traces of it, enough - NPC@annpc#557:- to make her seem familiar. This cannot have been someone who has seen her once or twice, but someone she knew fairly well." Keelah@crystyl:"This will not be an easy situation for either of them I imagine. Do your people have any sort of protocol for such occurrences? Practices or guidance?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "My faction does not forcibly take individuals, nor practice the suppression of old memories. In the cases that we find an Elachi of a different sect, we would typically return them - NPC@annpc#557:- to that sect to avoid conflict, though there have been situations where we chose to restore memories and integrate them into our sect, if they express the desire for it." Keelah@crystyl:"I take it that would be the only way to find out who this particular Elachi was in his previous life?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Yes. He cannot remember anything other than familiarity with Nikki at this moment, and without restoring his memories, he will never know more." Keelah@crystyl:"This is a complication we could have done without..." she sighs Keelah@crystyl | Mischa smiles helpfully, "This is why you have the pomp and circumstance command, and I stay out of the way" Keelah@crystyl:"Thank you for that..." Keelah@crystyl looks back to the Navigator, "I apologize for the inconvenience as I know this is not what you came here to help with. Tell me, do either of them know that this is their situation yet?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "I am not familiar enough with Nikki to know whether she suspects, but the Elachi who recognizes her has certainly begun to suspect that this is the case. He has expressed a desire - NPC@annpc#557 - to understand why he recognizes her. As a representative of the Administration, I would say that restoring his memories would be the right thing to do. Knowing the sect he belongs to however, - NPC@annpc#557 - I am not sure if the others here will approve." Keelah@crystyl:"Perhaps we should discuss the matter with his leader first" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Should I speak with him, or do you wish to do so yourself?" Keelah@crystyl:"I consider this an internal affair of your people, at least so far as the issue of the Elachi in question and the restoration of his memories. I will speak with him if either you desire it, - Keelah@crystyl:- otherwise I think it would be best for you to explain" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "I shall do so, then. Do you wish to explain the situation to your own officer?" Keelah@crystyl shakes her head, "I will wait to see what the situation is regarding the Elachi first, so I can present her with all the facts before asking her for a decision" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Very well. I will speak with their leader first," he steps off back towards the other Elachi Keelah@crystyl | Mischa leans into Keelah as he walks off, clearly entertained by the whole affair, "Smooth Captain, no commitment to act until the last minute. No point getting peoples hopes up if political - Keelah@crystyl:- ties may overrule them anyway, right?" Keelah@crystyl:"...And here you wonder I don't invite you to my parties" Keelah@crystyl | Mischa chuckles, "Oh, I can see why Sam fell for you!" Keelah@crystyl:"Don't you have somewhere else to be?" Keelah@crystyl | Mischa shakes her head proudly, "Nope!" Keelah@crystyl:"Well I'm glad at least I'm able to keep you entertained. But do feel free to be helpful anytime it suits" Keelah@crystyl | Mischa: "Do you really think I would have come down here if I did not see a purpose" Keelah@crystyl:"Of course not. But your sense of purpose tends to favour political bonds and pulling the galaxy's strings, no matter the cost. Right now I am more concerned about my friend" Keelah@crystyl | Mischa flashes a knowing smile, "Who's to say those objectives are mutually exclusive?" wandering off to explore the Elachi-flavoured buffet NPC@annpc#557 | Before long, the Navigator begins making his way back to Keelah Keelah@crystyl welcomes the distraction of his return, "That was fast. This normally means it's either a very good result, or a very bad one" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Our method of communication is more efficient than the use of words." Keelah@crystyl:"You'll get no argument from me on that front. So what did they have to say?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Their leader agrees...reluctantly. It's unlikely that their memories will return on their own, but after encountering a powerful enough trigger of their past that they actually - NPC@annpc#557 - recognize or recall something, it is not uncommon for them to begin questioning their place and service to the Iconians. Since he has recognized Nikki, that process has already begun, and - NPC@annpc#557 - their leader accepts that he may as well be lost to their sect. He is not pleased about it, but as we are both Elachi, he has agreed for me to restore his memories and integrate him into my - NPC@annpc#557:- if he so wishes." Keelah@crystyl:"This is something you are able to facilitate, I take it then. Something conducted through your telepathic links, rather than a technological requirement?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "A mixture of both. I will have to take him back to our vessel." Keelah@crystyl:"Very well then. Do you require - or even want - Nikki present for this?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "It may be helpful for jolting his memories, and checking whether they have indeed returned." Keelah@crystyl nods, "Very well then, I will speak to her privately once our guests are settled and we will proceed accordingly from there" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Their leader has also asked that I make use of our vessel's mycelial reaction chamber to contact their sect to bring another vessel to retrieve them, but they will wait here for - NPC@annpc#557 - the time being, as they wish to learn more about the situation here, and see what occurs with the one whose memories we are restoring." Keelah@crystyl:"Fair enough. What about informing the Iconians, or is that part of why they need to call another ship to retrieve them?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "That is why they seek to call another ship. The ship will bring them back to the Iconians, where they will report on all they have learned." Keelah@crystyl:"Then we will make every effort in the meantime to accommodate them and furnish them with all the necessary information. Now with that settled, I have an increasingly impatient looking Romulan to - Keelah@crystyl:- speak with" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "I will wait until she is ready before returning to my vessel with the other Elachi- that is, if she wishes to come with us. Her presence is not strictly necessary, but it would be - NPC@annpc#557:- welcome." Keelah@crystyl nods, "Thank you again for all your help" and heads off to discuss with Nikki. --- NPC@annpc#557 | A short while later, the Navigator beams on board the Regulator vessel with Nikki and the other Elachi NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator steps off the transporter pad, "Have you visited one of our vessels before?" Nikki@crystyl shakes her head, "No, this is my first visit to one" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "It is a fairly ordinary interior- we do not believe in using advanced technology for mundane purposes, so we have just what is necessary for a comfortable life." Nikki@crystyl:"I have served on Republic ships who follow a similar philosophy" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Is that common among your people?" Nikki@crystyl:"I'm not sure anything can be listed as a common trait to the Romulan people these days" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Why is that? Do your people demonstrate a great degree of diversity?" Nikki@crystyl:"My people are broken and scattered. Though we are rebuilding, there is no defining identity anymore as everyone has their own ideas" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "A problematic situation to be in. Despite common belief, the Elachi people are more scattered and have more contention among ourselves than outsiders see, but in the end, our - NPC@annpc#557 - disagreements tend to arise from how we are to reproduce. We all accept that we must, and have the common interest of continuing our people in mind- which is why there is little internal - NPC@annpc#557 - conflict among us. We may not agree with one another's methods, but harming each other would be counterintuitive to the goal of reproduction." Nikki@crystyl:"Yes, Keelah explained this. I must confess that I was ignorant of this situation before, and that it is... difficult to accept; that there Elachi out there who do not act as predators upon the - Nikki@crystyl:- innocent" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "I do not blame you. The sects who take people by force are both the most visible to outsiders and the most numerous, due to their indiscriminate approach to reproduction at any cost.” NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "It is unfortunate, but we do not wish to wage war upon our own, and even should we do so, there is no way we can win without stooping to their methods, as they will always have - NPC@annpc#557 - more numbers than we do." Nikki@crystyl:"Much as I hate to admit it... there are parallels with the Romulan people there. The Republic reflecting your sects views, while the remnants of the Star Empire - who were allied with his sect-" she - Nikki@crystyl:- thumbs behind to the other Elachi, "- more closely mirror their brutality" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Perhaps that was why they were drawn to ally with your Star Empire." Nikki@crystyl:"It would not surprise me" NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator leads Nikki and the other Elachi into the drive room of the Regulator vessel. It is not as populated as the times Emma was here as the ship is not about to commence jump, and - NPC@annpc#557 - only two other Regulators are present. The viewscreen in the room is also not online, but the central reaction chamber is fully lit and clearly powered up NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Welcome to the drive room." He nods to the other Elachi, who proceeds into the chamber Nikki@crystyl:"So this is one of those spore drive things I've heard about" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "That's correct. This one is largely of Regulator design. It was refined with some Elachi input, but we do not work on them in a mechanical capacity, only in an operational one. The - NPC@annpc#557 - drives we use on board Elachi vessels are more efficient, but do not synchronize well with Regulator technology." Nikki@crystyl:"Interesting, thank you for the explanation. So how exactly does this memory process work now, and what do you need of me?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "It is...complicated," he proceeds over to tap at one of the consoles, "In short, I will use the reaction chamber with the same spore mixture used to block memories, but in - NPC@annpc#557 - a different amount. With my mental guidance, he may be able to reaccess these memories. As he seems to remember you, your presence could increase the chances of success of this process." Nikki@crystyl:"Very well. I'll just... be over here then" NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator taps on the console, "Please, stand in front of the reaction chamber. This will work best if he sees you throughout the process." Nikki@crystyl steps over, looking up at the Elachi, "Well. This isn't awkward at all" NPC@annpc#557 | The Elachi stares down at Nikki silently NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator steps over after a minute, "Ready to activate the chamber now. Don't worry, the awkwardness should not last much longer. I hope." Nikki@crystyl hrms unconvincingly NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator taps on the interface on the reaction chamber, "Just keep standing there..." he says as he lowers himself to his knees, closing his eyes NPC@annpc#557 | The chamber soon begins to fill with a greenish gas with the bright blue glowing spores mixed within. The Elachi looks around for a moment, then focuses on Nikki. The gas clouds the chamber - NPC@annpc#557 - more and more until Nikki can barely make out the Elachi, only seeing him slump over and drop to his knees as well Nikki@crystyl keeps watching, personal curiosity overriding her natural disgust at being so close to Elachi NPC@annpc#557 | The process lasts a few minutes, and by the time the gas is drained out, the Elachi inside seems to have collapsed entirely. The Navigator opens his eyes and stands, tapping on the chamber's - NPC@annpc#557 - panel again to fill it with only the glowing blue spores NPC@annpc#557 | Slowly, the Elachi inside stands, his eyes now looking distinctly more like the Navigator's rather than the eyestalks of the Iconian serving Elachi. He blinks several times, adjusting to the - NPC@annpc#557 - new eyes as the Navigator empties the chamber once again NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Stand back. I will open the chamber now." Nikki@crystyl steps back NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator opens the chamber door and the other Elachi stumbles out. The Navigator catches and supports him as he continues blinking and looking around the room NPC@annpc#557 | The Elachi's eyes settle on Nikki again, "Nik...ki?" Nikki@crystyl looks down with uncertainty, "You know me?" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Yes. I...know you. It...has...been...a long time." Nikki@crystyl:"So you know me. Do you know yourself?" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Yes. No. I...my memories from before are...hazy. I remember you...fighting alongside you...against Elachi?" Nikki@crystyl 's eyes narrow a little, "You fought by my side? You were a Republic soldier?" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi: "I...was. We fought...Elachi...and Iconians. We were...trapped...by a walker. Had to reach...evacuation point. But I was...taken?" Nikki@crystyl stares a moment before her eyes widen a little, "...Aemius?" NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi: "Ae...mi...us. Yes. That was my name once. Aemius." Nikki@crystyl shakes her head lightly in disbelief, "No... not you. It... it can't be..." NPC@annpc#557 | Elachi: "I remember...now. It is...coming back...to me. The...other names. Vetris...Mheven...Soddek...Desmus..." Nikki@crystyl:"That was my team, yes. But you were kille-... no, you were taken by one of their drones!" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "They must have turned him into one of their own against his wishes...as they too often do." Nikki@crystyl lowers her head in shame, "That exactly why I... I tried to kill him after they took him. But they evaded my fire... I wanted to spare him their wicked fate!" her fists clench in trembling rage NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "You did...hit me. But I...did not die. Not before...they could...transform me." Nikki@crystyl:"I failed you..." she admits, more to herself, through clenched teeth NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "No...we saved the colony. It was...worth it. I remember...what the Elachi did...to my own. But now I am...one of them. Have been...for...many years..." Nikki@crystyl:"You always were determined to martyr yourself..." NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "That...is true. But I did not expect...to become...the enemy." Nikki@crystyl grimaces, closing her eyes, "The Elachi are... no longer the enemy..." it was clearly painful for her to say out loud NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I...did not...take anyone...after I became...Elachi. By the time my...transformation was complete...and when I began my service...the war was over. Still...my memories from before - NPC@annpc#557 - are...incompatible. Like those of a different person." Nikki@crystyl:"Maybe that is for the best" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius seems to get more familiar with speech as his old memories return, and the sentences become much less disjointed, "Is it? I have...both now. I...feel like two different people in one." Nikki@crystyl:"Yes, well that one who used to be a Romulan soldier might start remembering all the hurt he felt at the hands of the Elachi, losing his family and seeing his friends killed by them. How will that - Nikki@crystyl:- person feel about seeing his reflection as it is now?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I do not know...that is why the memories before are incompatible..." Nikki@crystyl:"I do not know either. I don't know what to make of any of this..." NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "You know about his past, who he was before he was Elachi. Perhaps he should stay with you for the time being, it is difficult for me to reconcile his past self with his present, - NPC@annpc#557 - without understanding who he once was." Nikki@crystyl snaps her attention to Navigator, "M-me? That does not sound like a very good idea. Remember that the man I knew hated your kind" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "That is exactly why he needs you. His memories are returning to him. If these feelings resurface on their own, it will be problematic. He must be able to reconcile who he is now - NPC@annpc#557 - with the man you knew, as impossible as that may sound, and I can do little to help that if I do not understand his old self." Nikki@crystyl:"And you don't' think my own feelings on the matter make me a poor choice?" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Perhaps, but it is worth a try with someone who knows him." NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Yes...I need to remember...and understand." Nikki@crystyl sighs, "There's no way I'm getting out of this is there..." NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Unless one of the other names he remembers happens to be here as well?" Nikki@crystyl shakes her head, "They are all long gone from here" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Then you are the best choice for this." Nikki@crystyl:"Alright, well I suppose I signed up for this already. But don't go blaming me if he ends up hating you all" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "That is not your fault. That is the fault of the sect who took him by force." Nikki@crystyl:"Very well, I will do my best to atone for my past failure to protect him from such a fate by helping him reconcile with the fate I left him with" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "Thank you. Let us return to the Valley Forge. I will be on board until the other Elachi depart, as this vessel will have to remain nearby to call another Elachi ship anyways, and - NPC@annpc#557 - your people may require more assistance in communing with the others." Nikki@crystyl nods, "Very well then" NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator leads the way to the transporter room, where they beam back to the Valley Forge NPC@annpc#557 | Materializing on the Valley Forge, the Navigator steps off the transporter pad, "I will be in the lounge with the other Elachi. You are welcome to seek me out if you or he needs any assistance." Nikki@crystyl:"I'm sure we'll be seeing you soon" NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator dips his head and proceeds on his way to the lounge, while Aemius looks around the transporter room, then to Nikki Nikki@crystyl:"Well, so much for this getting less awkward. I guess... you're the one who's going through all this, so what's our next move?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I...do not know. This is your ship. Where do you think we should go?" Nikki@crystyl:"Well, we will have to set you up with some quarters. So if you want some time alone to gather your thoughts that might be a good start. There's the lounge where the rest of your people are, if you - Nikki@crystyl:- want to speak with them now you have your old memories. We can use the holodecks to recreate old familiar places to help sort the memories maybe... I really don't know what is best" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "A place to...think might be good for now. When more of my memories return...perhaps the holodecks could be helpful. I do not think I am...ready to speak to the others again yet." Nikki@crystyl:"Very well then. This way" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius follows Nikki, examining the ship as he does Nikki@crystyl leads the way in silence to designated quarters Nikki@crystyl opens the door, stepping inside, "You will be able to use these quarters" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Thank you," he looks around, then to Nikki, "This place looks familiar. I know I was here earlier, but...I have been here in my life before, or some place similar to this, haven't I?" Nikki@crystyl:"You would have had similar quarters in your old life when we served on the Desmus, but I do not know if you ever had a stay on a Starfleet ship or not" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Perhaps..." he strolls about, examining everything in the room. "I am seeing things...differently. My memories have not yet returned in full, but everything seems less...cold. There - NPC@annpc#557 - is more feeling to what I observe, even if I do not fully understand why yet." Nikki@crystyl:"I'm only guessing, but that's probably more a thing of the overall process opening you back up to the world beyond the Elachi" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, "I was...calculated. Cold and unfeeling. Like a machine. My life before...as a Romulan, was so different." Nikki@crystyl nods, "Yes, we are a passionate people, not like our Vulcan cousins" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Vulcan cousins?" Nikki@crystyl:"I guess it will take longer for you to relearn everything..." Nikki@crystyl:"The Vulcans are distant ancestral relatives of ours. However, they insist on punishing themselves with a devout obsession with being all cold and emotionless and logical" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "That...sounds like my existence in the last few years. That is how the Elachi- at least the Elachi who made me, see the universe. Things are so much...brighter now." Nikki@crystyl:"I'm afraid I don't know enough about your people to comment. But this other sect - the Navigators - seem to be more open" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Yes, he certainly seems more like...you. I will take the time to...reflect. Thank you, for being willing to help me." Nikki@crystyl:"I owe it to the man you once were..." NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "He is still here, and slowly returning." Nikki@crystyl:"Perhaps. I still don't know if it's a good idea for to welcome that" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "We will see." Nikki@crystyl:"Alright well, you can use the computer to contact me as and when you want to speak" she heads out --- Keliaya@anncaris | As Nikki makes her way through the halls after leaving Aemius' guest quarters, she sees Kelly in her hands-on work getup approaching further down the hall Keliaya@anncaris gives Nikki a nod of greeting, "Subcommander." Nikki@crystyl looks over distractedly, "Hm? Oh, hello Commander. Can I help you with something?" Keliaya@anncaris shakes her head, "No, I was just greeting you in passing. But I did hear something about Elachi on the ship, and I know your people have a history with them. Are you alright?" Nikki@crystyl sighs, "Not even a little bit..." Keliaya@anncaris:"I was afraid so...want to talk about it, or?" Nikki@crystyl:"What I want is a temporal anomaly to reset this day so I can avoid the situation I've now found myself" Keliaya@anncaris narrows her eyes, "What happened?" Nikki@crystyl:"One of those Elachi turned out to be a former Centurion who was lost under my command during the war and is now awoken to his past memories and living in quarters just back there" Keliaya@anncaris:"That's...I see what you mean. Come on, why don't we get you a drink? Or would you rather be alone?" Nikki@crystyl:"I think alcohol is welcome " Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "Perfect. Follow me, then." She turns to lead the way to a lounge Nikki@crystyl follows absently Keliaya@anncaris:"I'd normally go change into something nicer, but I'm concerned you'll hide away in some corner to sulk if I leave you and go get changed. And I don't want to crawl through Jefferies tubes in my - Keliaya@anncaris:- good clothes." Nikki@crystyl:"You clearly underestimate my resolve. I would not 'sulk' in some dark corner because I've had a bad day" Keliaya@anncaris:"That's good to hear," She steps into the lounge, heading over to the counter and ordering one of her usual complex drinks before looking to Nikki to see what she gets Nikki@crystyl looks a\cross, "Romulan ale" Keliaya@anncaris:"I thought you'd be getting something strong..." Keliaya@anncaris | The bartender soon delivers their drinks and Kelly takes a sip of hers before looking to Nikki again, "Want to get a more private table, or stay here at the counter?" Nikki@crystyl sips her blue drink, moving over to a table, "I will assume that is an attempt to soften the situation by making light of most species' inability to handle this drink" Keliaya@anncaris takes a sip of her own drink and follows over, "That it was. So, this Elachi, you say he's reawakened his memories or something?" Nikki@crystyl:"Yes. Apparently it's their whole reproduction thing; taking people from other species and - I don't know - remaking them as Elachi or something" Keliaya@anncaris:"But they remember their old memories as whatever species they were before, don't they? At least the Navigator on the Regulator vessel does, I admit I haven't had any dealings with their species - Keliaya@anncaris:- aside from him." Nikki@crystyl:"That's where the Elachi politics come into it apparently. He belongs to a sect who are more cooperative, taking willing volunteers who are at the end of their old natural lives" Nikki@crystyl:"The sect who arrived here today and serve the Iconians are the same ones who we fought during the war. They take a more aggressive stance and take people by force to make new Elachi. Those people - Nikki@crystyl:- have their old memories wiped as a result" Keliaya@anncaris nods, "And this person who was under your command was captured by them and turned into an Elachi without past memory?" Nikki@crystyl:"Yes, until he saw and recognised me earlier today. That triggered a process that can not be reversed and so now his memories have been restored" Keliaya@anncaris:"I assume he'll be having trouble with his old memories during the war and his existence as an Elachi now..." Nikki@crystyl:"That would be my guess" Keliaya@anncaris takes another sip of her drink, "It's...certainly a complicated situation to be in. You're the only one here who knew him as he was, so he's probably going to look to you for help." Nikki@crystyl:"Yes, that's why he's on board now. I was required to attend the restoration process and have now been tasked to serve as his guide through the reconciliation" Keliaya@anncaris:"I don't envy you..." Nikki@crystyl:"I have absolutely no idea what to do with him, or even what I should be thinking about this whole mess" Keliaya@anncaris:"I thought as much. Hating your enemies, that's something that's easy to understand, something plenty of people have been through. But to actually become something you once despised..." Nikki@crystyl nods, "This is my fear. He will remember too much of what he was end up completely despising himself and everyone around him now" Keliaya@anncaris:"I can't imagine anyone dealing with something like this. I...suppose the closest I can think of was when the Architect took control of all of us. We /technically/ became his thralls temporarily, - Keliaya@anncaris:- but we're not trapped as Horde thralls for the rest of our lives." Nikki@crystyl:"Exactly. For all the time I knew him, he was a passionate Republic soldier who believed in nothing more than protecting our people. Damned fool was always trying to be a hero and sacrifice himself - Nikki@crystyl:- for the cause. For a person like that who felt so strongly to have to spend the rest of their life seeing that enemy's face in the mirror..." Nikki@crystyl sips and sighs, "If it were me, I would want to be put out of my misery" Keliaya@anncaris:"I can see why...but maybe that's the problem. You're finding it hard to help him because in his position, you wouldn't want to be helped." Nikki@crystyl:"No arguments here" Keliaya@anncaris:"He's been an Elachi for several years now, since the war, right?" Nikki@crystyl nods, "Yes, that's my understanding of it" Keliaya@anncaris:"His old memories are coming back, but he still has his new ones, years of memories as an Elachi. Maybe he wouldn't feel the same way you feel now. After all, he's lived a whole other life for - Keliaya@anncaris:- these years, and that has to have some influence on him. Like the Observer- even though the Junayd don't fully trust us, her memories of her time as Rianni caused her to defend us despite the - Keliaya@anncaris:- views her creators gave her." Nikki@crystyl:"True. But I still don't know how I am supposed to help him when I feel like I am the worst possible person to do so" Keliaya@anncaris:"Maybe you should just...help him understand who he was before, and see where things go from there. Give him all the information, and let him choose what he does with it." Nikki@crystyl:"That would be a lot simpler if I thought I could do that without prejudice" Keliaya@anncaris:"That prejudice could be exactly what he needs. If you lost all memory of your identity, would you rather read a personnel file about yourself, or have someone who knew you well tell you about who - Keliaya@anncaris:- you were? Our biases can cloud our judgement at times, but they're a part of who we are. I don't think he cares so much about what missions he was on and what postings he served at, as he does - Keliaya@anncaris:- about what it was like to be Romulan." Nikki@crystyl:"You're probably right" she sighs, "I know I am going to have to handle this somehow..." Keliaya@anncaris:"Just...do what you feel is right," she smiles, "That's always the best you can do, what follows isn't something anyone can predict." Nikki@crystyl smiles, "Of course. Now just to figure out what feels right" she stands, "thank you for the talk" Keliaya@anncaris smiles back, "Happy to be of help. Good luck, Nikki." Nikki@crystyl bows her head a little as she heads off --- NPC@annpc#557 | A few hours later, Aemius calls Nikki to his guest quarters on the ship Nikki@crystyl arrives a short time later and chimes the door NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Come in." Nikki@crystyl walks in, looking around NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius sits in the middle of the room in a meditative-like stance. He opens his eyes as Nikki enters, "Centurion Nikee ir-Fethraie t'Rllaillieu. That's your full name, isn't it?" Nikki@crystyl:"Correct. Though it Sub-Commander now" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Sub-Commander. Of course, it's been many years. You would've been promoted by now. Well...congratulations." Nikki@crystyl smiles faintly, "Well, thank you. I take it you have been successful in reconciling your memories to a degree?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Some, yes. Much more of it is coming back to me, but there is one thing I cannot truly grasp." Nikki@crystyl leans against the table, "What is that?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Before I was taken, I...the man I used to be, he hated the Elachi, yes? He saw them as malicious predators who preyed on the weak and helpless." Nikki@crystyl:"Correct" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "That is...not compatible with my experiences. We are not malicious, because the concept of maliciousness has no meaning to us. Not to those of my old sect, at least." Nikki@crystyl:"It is very much a matter of perspective" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Please, explain." Nikki@crystyl:"Well... I guess in the eyes of your fellow Elachi, and this particular sect, what you are doing is simply the most logical path to procreation and survival. But to the people who are taken against - Nikki@crystyl:- their will, this is seen as a malicious act. Largely because all they see is the action of Elachi attacking their homes and taking people with no degree of understanding why" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "But that is the relationship between all predator and prey. No one wishes to become prey, but even other predators can become prey." Nikki@crystyl:"Indeed, but just because that is how things may be it doesn't mean that the prey accept it" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "And I...did not accept it?" Nikki@crystyl:"You fought passionately to protect people from it. We all did" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius stands, "So that was why I fought back against the Elachi when I was taken. I think I understand." Nikki@crystyl:"I imagine this is very difficult feeling to balance" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Yes...it is. The feelings I used to have for the Elachi were...very strong." Nikki@crystyl:"They were. The man I knew you as was a passionate fighter, there is no hiding from this for you now. The question can only sit with you as to how you feel in yourself now about it all" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I...do not know. I can remember my old hatred for the Elachi, yet at the same time I have an understanding of the Elachi's ways now. And I /am/ Elachi now..." Nikki@crystyl:"Indeed you are. So perhaps it would be best to focus on that, and not on the man you used to be" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "What do you mean?” Nikki@crystyl:"I am no expert, but I would imagine that your present situation would invite temptation to get lost in the memories of the man you used to be, and draw a desire to be that man again especially with- Nikki@crystyl:- strong feelings as you have to deal with. But by instead focusing on the fact that he is no more, you are not him. Focus on your new existence as Elachi" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "But my memories of Aemius are returning. I cannot simply...forget them all." Nikki@crystyl:"Of course, therein lies the challenge. I suppose it's all about discovering what those mean to you now as an Elachi, rather than what they meant to you as a Romulan" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius thinks for a moment before nodding, "Yes. I am no longer Romulan now, after all. But...I am not yet certain what these memories mean. Does your offer to visit the holodecks still stand?" Nikki@crystyl:"Of course" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Let us visit there, then." Nikki@crystyl:"Very well, let's go then" she turns and heads out NPC@annpc#557 | After a short walk, Nikki and Aemius enter one of the holodecks. Aemius looks around curiously at the empty room Nikki@crystyl:"Ok. What did you want to revisit?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "The closest memories I have were...the ship we served on during the war." Nikki@crystyl:"The Desmus" she nods, "That should be easy enough. What in particular about it lingers with you?" she asks, working the arch console NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I am...not sure. I would just like to see the ship again." Nikki@crystyl:"That's ok, we can load the ship - or something like it - from the database and explore from there" she taps and their surroundings shift to the Desmus' bridge. Or at least, a standard layout for - Nikki@crystyl:- it's class” NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius slowly takes in the view as the bridge loads. He steps over to one of the consoles, running a hand over it, "Yes...this is...very much like what I remember." NPC@annpc#557 | He looks over to Nikki, "What happened to the Desmus? Does it still fly with the Republic?" Nikki@crystyl:"It is a fair facsimile. As far as I know, it is still in service. But I moved on from that ship after the war" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, "This ship we are on now, what brought you here?" Nikki@crystyl:"The Valley Forge? I was assigned here as an official observer for the Republic as they wanted to ensure Starfleet and the Klingons do not end up monopolizing this sphere" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "And you are the only Republic representative on board?" Nikki@crystyl nods, "That's right" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "It must be very different from serving on the Desmus, with our own people...or your own people, now." Nikki@crystyl:"It was at first, but we have been together on this ship for a long time now so it has become as welcoming as anywhere for me" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, moving across the bridge and giving it another thorough look before heading to one of the turbolifts Nikki@crystyl follows, letting him lead NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius takes the lift down to one of the decks of the Desmus, stepping out and slowly looking over everything as he did on the bridge, "I have many memories of this place. Not all of it was - NPC@annpc#557 - pleasant, but I had...purpose here." Nikki@crystyl:"Of course, you were part of a crew here as I was" Nikki@crystyl:"But you have a purpose where you are now too, right?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Yes, I do, but a very different one. What...were we fighting for here? Our homeworld is gone, our people split between many factions large and small." Nikki@crystyl:"We were fighting to survive. To protect what little remained so it could be rebuilt" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I think I understand. Like how my...old colony was taken by the Elachi, and we came together to prevent that from happening again." Nikki@crystyl:"Yes, many Republic soldiers were drawn for similar reasons" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "And here? What are you fighting for here, in this Sphere?" Nikki@crystyl:"Ironically, the same thing I suppose. Just on a larger scale" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Your Captain said something about a Horde, seeking to control everything?" Nikki@crystyl:"The epitome of that malicious evil the Elachi were seen as" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "They operate similarly to the Elachi?" Nikki@crystyl:"I don't know about that, but they are certainly viewed in a similar way. Do you have no knowledge at all of them?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Only what I heard from your Captain. Something about Progenitors and thralls..." Nikki@crystyl:"Yes. You at least know who the Progenitors are?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, "I do." Nikki@crystyl:"Right. well, when they seeded the Children species they included a genetic 'back door' of sorts; a failsafe that could be used to eradicate the experiment if it turned out to be a failure. One of - Nikki@crystyl:- the Progenitors responsible for this - the Architect - found a way to manipulate this and turn it towards his own selfish gains by using it to enslave the Children's minds, or to enthrall them. - Nikki@crystyl:- Over the millennia since then, the remnants of his followers evolved into a collective consciousness kind of like the Borg, but controlling this thrall Horde who destroy all Children civilizations - Nikki@crystyl:- by telepathically changing them and adding them to their own number" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Interesting. They have...more in common with the Elachi than I thought." Nikki@crystyl:"Do not let the similarities confuse you. They are a mindless mass with no culture or free thinking of their own" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Neither were we, at the beginning. Do you know how we came to be? Why we create more Elachi from your people?" Nikki@crystyl:"Until yesterday I did not even know that you did that" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "It was an accident at first. We were little more than one species of fungus in the vast mycelial network. Until your Progenitors came." Nikki@crystyl:"They played a part in your evolution as well? Most curious" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Yes. They came to the network as explorers, but they were not prepared for it. Our...forebearers infected them. That was how the Elachi came to be. We began as my sect operates, - NPC@annpc#557 - taking others to transform with the fungus. But as we took in more individuals, we gained more of their memories and their ideals, like Aemius'. Then different sects formed, sects like the - NPC@annpc#557:- Navigator’s which understood the concepts of evil and maliciousness you hold." Nikki@crystyl:"I am aware that philosophically speaking, such notions are constructs of the sentient consciousness created to understand one's own thoughts and feelings. And to bring order to a persons - Nikki@crystyl:- comprehension of a universe harmoniously chaotic" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, "Yes, but with the mess your Progenitors made, problems we are still dealing with now, I think the universe can use a little more order." Nikki@crystyl:"No arguments here, and that is why we are fighting to eradicate the anomalous existence of the Horde; so that the galaxy may find it's own way" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Your Captain...she said the Iconians built this Sphere to fight the Horde?" Nikki@crystyl:"Yes, alongside the Nuhar. They built this sphere with the capability to end the Horde, which is why we came. Unfortunately we did not know the Architect was the enemy until it was too late and so - Nikki@crystyl:- he ended up betraying us and taking direct control of the Horde. But we fight now in a final push to remove him from control and then we can end the Horde finally" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I...believe I know how to make sense of Aemius' memories and feelings now." Nikki@crystyl:"You do? Well that's good then. Right?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius motions Nikki along as he continues his way across the ship NPC@annpc#557 | He enters one of the ship's many quarters, taking a moment to look around before he strides over and sits down on a chair Nikki@crystyl follows and sits across from him, curious where this is going NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Aemius never told you /why/ he was so eager to martyr himself, did he?" Nikki@crystyl shakes her head, "No he did not" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "He never ran from a fight, except once- that day the Elachi came to his colony. He fled because he knew it was not a battle he could win, but there was always some part of him that - NPC@annpc#557:- wished he had stayed behind, stood his ground even though it meant certain death." Nikki@crystyl:"Survivors guilt" she surmises NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, "Aemius would not wish to run again. And while the Navigator's sect may suit me better now...it would be evading the problem and not confronting it." NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I understand his hatred for the Elachi now, yet I also understand the Elachi. But these two things do not necessarily have to be incompatible." Nikki@crystyl:"I think I understand. So you wish to remain with your current sect and face the difficulties, overcome them. In a way being true to your old self while also being true to the Elachi you are now" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Yes. The Elachi were an accident caused by the Progenitors and used by the Iconians during the war and the time that led up to it. We were but the tools. I wish to help fix the - NPC@annpc#557:- mistakes of the past. Remaining as I am now will also give me the best chance of doing this. The Iconians have realized the error of their ways, but they have yet to atone for it. I shall atone - NPC@annpc#557:- for the Elachi by attempting to convince the Iconians to do so." Nikki@crystyl:"That is quite the ambitious undertaking. Wouldn't it be more... achievable to first help your own people? The atonement you speak of comes from the practices of the past. But they are also the - Nikki@crystyl:- practices of the present for your sect are they not?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I hope to do so as well. My current sect follows the Iconians, and we already have their ear, as they expect us to report to them with what we have learned here. If the Iconians change - NPC@annpc#557:- their ways, then it will open the door for my sect to follow." Nikki@crystyl:"A fine strategy. Worthy of a Romulan" she offers with a slight smile NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius dips his head, "I will do my best to see it through. And if it is successful, then perhaps we shall meet again, with an army to offer you and your allies here." Nikki@crystyl:"I know that is what our Captain hopes for. This place was important to the Iconians, it wasn't just built to fight the Horde you see, but it alone houses their entire Empire's collective efforts to- Nikki@crystyl:- protect the galaxy from the Horde. There are archives here - genetic, technological, biological, you name it. They hold records of countless species who fell to the Horde and the Iconians saw - Nikki@crystyl:- fit to preserve them here, even preserving themselves here and then hiding this place even from themselves to protect it. The fact that it is now back, and at the tipping point against the Horde. - Nikki@crystyl:- Well, suffice to say that Keelah is not the only one hoping that they will remember and see fit to help finish what they started" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, "I will be sure to remind them. They have chosen to keep to themselves after the war, but I too hope the discovery of this Sphere and everything on it may spur them into action, - NPC@annpc#557:- this time on the right side of things." Nikki@crystyl:"I know the Captain wants to make sure your sect has all the information possible to present to the Iconians, so I will endeavour to assist as this aligns with your goals as well" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "What else can you tell me of the Sphere, and the Iconians' involvement with fighting the Horde? The more information I have, the better my chances of persuading the Iconians." Nikki@crystyl:"I only know what it must have meant to them. This is the biggest and most intricate sphere we have ever encountered. They put more effort and focus into this one sphere than any other, it was that - Nikki@crystyl:- important. They built numerous foundries here to fabricate Nuhar constructs to protect it indefinitely. I do not know the details of their own conflict with the Horde, only how important it was to- Nikki@crystyl:- them before their Empire collapsed that all this was done to stop them" Nikki@crystyl:"But we have a great deal of data collected here to support what we say about it. And then of course, there is the living Iconian on board this ship who was recreated by this sphere" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I was just going to ask about her. This Sphere has the ability to...create Iconians?" Nikki@crystyl:"We don't know the full extent of it yet. It might be just her specifically, or variants on her genome. She was the last living custodian of the genetic archive here and so her final task was to - Nikki@crystyl:- add herself to the archive to represent her people. Presumably as a failsafe since no relief came for her, leading to the conclusion that the Iconians had fallen" Nikki@crystyl:"But that alone must warrant their attention. I know from the war, there are only a handful of Iconians left. And they are vastly different to the people they were in their prime - in body and and - Nikki@crystyl:- spirit. For them to learn of living prime specimen of their race... it must surely be a beacon of hope for a new future for them" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Indeed. The Iconians have long been forced to leave their old physical forms behind, and they will certainly be interested in the capability to recreate them." Nikki@crystyl:"And by extension; safeguarding that capability now that it has been rediscovered" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius nods, "Give me the data you have collected, and I will look over it for anything else that may aid in my persuasion of the Iconians." Nikki@crystyl:"I will have everything compiled to the console in your quarters" Nikki@crystyl:"So what about your sect now?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "With the war over and the Iconians seeking to draw less attention to themselves, we have not been taking people for some time. It is my hope that if the Iconians atone for their - NPC@annpc#557:- actions and forge a better relationship with the people of the Alpha and Beta Quadrants, perhaps we will be able to strike deals like the one the Navigator told me about, where aging members of - NPC@annpc#557:- other species may willingly offer themselves to become Elachi, and we will not have to take people by force." Nikki@crystyl:"Sounds like aligning your sect with the Navigators. I am curious, are there only those two sects, or others as well?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "There are much more than two. The one I belong to used to be many different sects who operated under the same general principle of taking others by force, but with slight differences - NPC@annpc#557:- in their methods. Some were lone predators stalking the depths of your space, while others forged alliances like the one with the Star Empire. A few even settled on primitive worlds and presented - NPC@annpc#557:- themselves as gods to the locals, demanding sacrifices which became a steady supply of new bodies to turn into Elachi. Many of these sects united under the Iconians to become the one we are in - NPC@annpc#557:- today. There are sects out there who continue to take people on their own, sects who take the dying and are known to the galaxy only in myths as angels of death, and sects like the Navigator's - NPC@annpc#557:- that negotiate deals to which both sides agree." Nikki@crystyl:"Well, I suppose any kind of unity has to start somewhere" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "True, but I suspect even now, there are as many sects of Elachi as there are factions of Romulans, and just like the Republic and Star Empire and other, smaller groups and colonies, - NPC@annpc#557:- they can vary greatly in size. We are simply less well-known because we tend to use our technology to remain beneath notice." NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Not that the Romulans do not try, but as effective as Romulan cloaks are, they cannot rival the ability to move in and out of subspace at will." Nikki@crystyl:"Of course. So how do you think the others on board will react to your decision to remain with the sect now?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "They may be uncertain of me at first, but once I show that I am willing to perform my purpose, I do not anticipate any problems. After all, they block memories so we would not - NPC@annpc#557:- remember we were taken and still be willing to work for them. The return of my memories will not affect the skills I have as a Elachi; if anything, it will give me a broader range of knowledge - NPC@annpc#557:- and ability- like the ability to speak with you coherently now." Nikki@crystyl:"That certainly does make things easier" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "And if they do refuse to change their ways, I can still join the Navigator's sect. Just as we do not have concepts of right or wrong among the Elachi, we also do not have concepts of - NPC@annpc#557:- betrayal. If our opinions change, it is accepted for an Elachi to depart peacefully in search of a sect that better suits them, or to form a new sect with like-minded Elachi." Nikki@crystyl:"Then would you like to go and speak with them?" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius nods and stands, "I am ready." Nikki@crystyl stands and follows NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius returns to the lounge where the Navigator and the other Elachi are, stepping over to join them. They all sit silently, likely communicating with one another telepathically Nikki@crystyl follows to the lounge, but stays back at a respectful distance while they commune NPC@annpc#557 | The silent dialogue lasts for several minutes before Aemius and the Navigator stand. Aemius steps back towards Nikki, "It is settled. I will download the data you have collected and return - NPC@annpc#557 - with my sect. The Navigator will call another vessel to retrieve us." Nikki@crystyl nods, "I am no expert, but this sounds like a successful reintegration of your memory" NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator steps over as well, "It would seem so. There may be small details that will continue to come back slowly over time, but his memories and identities are integrated enough for him - NPC@annpc#557 - to handle them as they come." NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius inclines his head, "Thank you for your help, Nikki." Nikki@crystyl bows her head in kind, "I owed you that much" NPC@annpc#557 | Navigator: "I will return to the Regulator vessel to contact their sect." NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "Any other questions you have before we depart?" Nikki@crystyl:"I am sure I could quiz you about things for an eternity. But there is nothing pertinent I am aware of" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius: "I hope we will have the chance to speak again. If the Iconians are willing to protect this Sphere, I will offer to be among the forces they send here. Then, you'll have plenty of time - NPC@annpc#557 - to quiz me." Nikki@crystyl:"Then I will await your return" NPC@annpc#557 | Aemius inclines his head again before heading off. The Navigator gives Nikki another glance, "I told you that you'd be fit for the task." Nikki@crystyl:"That you did" NPC@annpc#557 | The Navigator gives a faint smile before heading out as well --- Keliaya@anncaris | Some time later on the bridge of the Valley Forge, the viewscreen displays yet another Elachi ship, this one larger and of a different design Keliaya@anncaris FX | https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/sto_gamepedia/images/d/d2/Ship_Variant_-_ALL_-_Elachi_S%27golth_Escort_%28T5%29.png/revision/latest?cb=20190921164458 Keliaya@anncaris:"Transporter room reports that all the Elachi survivors are away." Keelah@crystyl:"Very good. Any communication from them?" Keliaya@anncaris | TQ: "They've just sent a message," she taps and the brief message plays Keliaya@anncaris | Message: "Thank...you." Keelah@crystyl smiles faintly, "Respond with simple well wishes" Keliaya@anncaris | TQ nods and taps her console, sending the reply. The Elachi ship sits there for a few more seconds before promptly disappearing into what seems like streaks of lightning Keelah@crystyl:"Enigmatic as ever..." Keliaya@anncaris glances over as the Elachi ship disappears, "I hope the Iconians act on what the Elachi have learned here." Keelah@crystyl:"It would certainly be a great advantage for us. But we can not plan on hopes" Keliaya@anncaris nods. Work on the bridge resumes in silence for a few minutes before Vrolmacht announces, "More Horde forces are mobilizing. It looks like the Architect is making another push for the reactivated - Keliaya@anncaris:- facilities." Keelah@crystyl hrms, "Clearly he believed our ploy more whole heartedly than expected. How many are still primed with demolitions?" Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "Three of them, Captain." Keelah@crystyl:"Then what if we feint a minimal defense at the other facilities and make it appear that we are struggled to remobilize; allowing them to reach those first?" Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht nods, "That could work," he taps away at his console, passing the instructions along Keelah@crystyl:"Then let us proceed but place full reinforcements on stand by" Keliaya@anncaris | After a few minutes of organizing reinforcements, Vrolmacht announces, "Two of the groups are headed for the facilities with demolitions, but the remaining are still proceeding towards the others." Keelah@crystyl:"As expected. We just need to delay those until the first arrive at the primed facilities" Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "Coalition forces are in position to keep them occupied. Earliest estimated time of contact is twelve minutes." Keelah@crystyl:"Continue monitoring" Keliaya@anncaris | Ten minutes pass by when TQ says, "Captain, we have an incoming transmission from outside the Sphere." Keelah@crystyl looks over, "From outside? Put it through" Keliaya@anncaris | TQ taps her console and an image of Vora in her Colonial Fleet uniform appears on the viewscreen, "Coalition forces. Do not fire. Multiple friendly vessels are incoming through the entrance - Keliaya@anncaris:- hatches of the Sphere." Keelah@crystyl:"Nice of her to finally join us" she smiles Keliaya@anncaris smiles as well, glancing to her console, "Sphere hatches are indeed opening." Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "Multiple vessels inbound, headed by a Colonial Fleet Baseship and a large Carran vessel." Keelah@crystyl:"A most welcome sight. Hail the Baseship" Keliaya@anncaris | TQ nods and Vora appears on the viewscreen again, this time live Keliaya@anncaris | Vora smiles, "It's good to finally be here. So this is the Heart of War." Keelah@crystyl:"Nice of you to finally join us" she smiles. "We are just in the midst of a delicate operation, so please ensure your forces do not presume to engage Horde forces on site. We're sending you the - Keelah@crystyl:- tactical data now" she nods over to Vrolmacht Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht taps on his console and sends over the data Keliaya@anncaris | Vora: "Thank you. I'll distribute my forces across the main defensive points of the Foundries first and await further instruction." Keelah@crystyl nods, "Good. We are maintaining stand by positions to support the defense groups if needed. But all being well, the Horde will soon withdraw" Keliaya@anncaris | Vrolmacht: "They are withdrawing now. No engagements reported across any facility." Keliaya@anncaris | Vora smirks, "Looks like our arrival scared them off." Keelah@crystyl:"Even better. We still have our contingency in place to draw them back to in the future then. Welcome to the Heart of War, Supreme Commander" Keliaya@anncaris | Vora: "This place certainly does live up to expectation. Hope I haven't missed out on too much of the fun." Keelah@crystyl:"I'm sure there is plenty to come, but a lot has certainly occurred already" Keliaya@anncaris | Vora nods, "Looks like you've gotten a few decent spots to hold out around here. Good work as always, Keelah." Keelah@crystyl:"You are witnessing the collective efforts of everyone involved. Why don't you get yourself settled then come join us for a proper catch up?" Keliaya@anncaris | Vora: "I'll be right there as soon as these new forces are distributed. See you then, Captain." Keelah@crystyl:"See you then" she bows her head Keliaya@anncaris FX | The comm ends, returning the viewscreen to the view of the spherescape Keliaya@anncaris:"Even without Iconian support, we're still getting plenty of our own reinforcements." Keelah@crystyl:"We are nearing the time when this can finally be put to an end, and we can get Eva back" Keliaya@anncaris smiles, "It certainly looks this way. Hopefully it won't be much longer now." Keelah@crystyl:"Just one step at a time"