ST:UNI102 | "Scavanging Around"

Stardate 99574

Having found themselves tied to the new Iconian Cadet - T'Mer, Mari & Kay also now find themselves pulled into activities normally beyond their scope thanks to everyone's interest in having Starfleet's first Iconian there to assist with learning the secrets of the Heart.

---

View Episode

Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | In a classroom in the Academy annex of the Heart of Unity, Kayleigh and Mariel are listening to the end of a lecture by Professor Rouhani Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Rouhani: "...and that's all for today. Remember everyone, next week is the combadge tinkering test. If you've broken your training badge beyond repair, let me know now and I'll issue you - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - another one so you have something to practice with. Otherwise, you're dismissed." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Three cadets stand and make their way over towards the professor to ask for new practice combadges Kayleigh@crystyl stands and gathers up her things ready to head out Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Professor Rouhani hands the first cadet a replacement badge before glancing to her PADD, "Cadets Kayleigh and Tanglao, stay behind for a minute too." Kayleigh@crystyl glances to the front and gives a slight nod before setting her things back down Mariel Tanglao@anncaris was just about to leave as well and settles back down upon the professor calling them Kayleigh@crystyl looks over to Mariel, curious to see if her expression suggests any apprehension about this or if she seems to expect it Mariel Tanglao@anncaris glances to Kayleigh as well, clearly confused as to why they were asked to stay behind, "You think this is about that business on the Promenade again? That was weeks ago..." Kayleigh@crystyl:"And to my knowledge, the professor had no direct involvement. The most likely would seem to be something regarding our Iconian friend" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "Good logic as always. I certainly can't think of anything else it could be about..." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The professor finishes handing out training badges and gestures the pair over Kayleigh@crystyl:"Well I am at least unaware of any fault in my own studies, so I am confident it is nothing like that" she remarks as they head over Kayleigh@crystyl:"Professor" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Rouhani: "Cadets. How're you doing so far? Not being overwhelmed by work, I hope?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"No Professor, I find the workload to be quite manageable thank you" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Rouhani smiles, "Good, because there's a little excursion opportunity available to you." Kayleigh@crystyl perks a brow, "Intriguing. This is an extra curricular field trip then?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Rouhani nods, "That's right. Last week, computer scientists studying the Heart's systems discovered the presence of a previously unknown biome through the systems that manage it." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"A new biome? I know we're still far from categorizing everything on the Sphere properly, but how does an entire biome go unnoticed?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"And surely a new biome requires formal investigation by a dedicated research team before sending us there does it not?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Rouhani: "The preliminary survey team is already at work there. Professor Lycas is assembling a second team to visit. As it seems that even the Iconians didn't know about the biome until our - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - scientists stumbled upon the information, he's invited Cadet T'Mer, and extended the invitation to you two as well." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Well, that certainly explains our privilege of invitation" she looks to Mariel, "I am in a good enough position in my studies to be able to attend I believe, and we are obliged to mentor T'Mer - Kayleigh@crystyl:- still. What about you?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "I've got time too, and this sounds quite fun, too!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Rouhani smiles, "I thought it was your thing, given your interest in biology and all." Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "Very well Professor, we graciously accept the assignment" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Rouhani taps her PADD and hands it to Kayleigh, "Meet Lycas and his team at this facility tomorrow morning, then." Kayleigh@crystyl takes it, glancing over the content, "Alright Professor, thank you" — Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The next day, Kayleigh and Mariel meet up with T'Mer in the facility they were directed to Mariel Tanglao@anncaris waves as they spot the Iconian in the transporter room, "Hey T'Mer!" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer raises a hand, "Hello again fellow cadets!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris walks up to the Iconian cadet, "How have your studies been so far?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "It is quite strange having to learn in such a regimented manner with fixed timeslots for everything. I worry sometimes that I might learn something when it's not the right time for it! - Kayleigh@crystyl:- What do you do then, do you have a means to forget the information, or postpone long term retention until it is the right time to learn that subject again?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris laughs, "There's no harm in being a little ahead! It's okay to learn something before the professors teach it in class. Unless you've taken the exact same course already before, you're still - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- probably going to learn something new! People know bits and pieces of information being taught already all the time." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris pats Kay on the shoulder, "Like Kay here for example. Her parents are in Starfleet, so she's naturally picked up lots just from growing up on ship with them." Kayleigh@crystyl:"The structure isn't about making you only learn certain things within specific timeframes, but rather it allows an extensive curriculum to be delivered in full. It is to make sure they do not miss - Kayleigh@crystyl:- anything that they need to teach us really" Kayleigh@crystyl:"I actually spent very little time on starships growing up, but the theory is applicable still" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Oh, my bad!" She chuckles. "I keep thinking you had since a cadet I knew before I came here spent most of his time on ships because his parents were officers too." Kayleigh@crystyl:"My father did serve mostly on exploratory vessels, but with the Science Academy. My mother had the foresight to prioritize a stable environment for me and so spent most of her time working at - Kayleigh@crystyl:- different facilities around the Sol system" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "Still spent plenty of time around Starfleet officers though I imagine!" Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "Yes, installations are not starships, but in terms of living with officers there is no real difference" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris looks back to T'Mer, "But yes, what Kayleigh said! You don't have to learn everything exactly when it's taught. Just make sure you learn it all by the end and you're good!" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer gives a heavy sigh, "Well that is certainly a relief!" she opens a PADD and quickly clears a load of files Kayleigh@crystyl perks a brow, "T'Mer...?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "Oh, well since this field trip was not in line with my schedule I had started devising a tool to reset my memory afterwards so I didn't have to try and forget everything!" Kayleigh@crystyl opens her mouth to speak, but thinks better of since she's already figured things out Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"You mean like a mental exercise tool right? Not an actual memory wiping piece of technology...?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer looks concerned, "I, well... let's just yes to that" Kayleigh@crystyl:"T'Mer, perhaps in the future you should come to one of us first before you start trying to invent your way through any problems" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "Yeah, that's probably a good idea." Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer hangs her head a little, "Understood. Don't worry though, I wouldn't have even been able to build it without your help so I would have come to you before progressing it anyway!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Still, that isn't-" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer nods and smiles, "I know, your point has been made and I understand now" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Anyways! Looking forward to this trip, T'Mer?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "Yes, I find it quite curious as to why this biome remained unnoticed for so long" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Well the Heart is an incredibly vast and detailed place. It will take years to properly explore it all. Probably more than any of our lifetimes will pass and they will contine making new - Kayleigh@crystyl:- discoveries here" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "It'll take generations to study this sphere. Even the Jenolan Dyson Sphere which was discovered decades ago is still being studied! But I'm also wondering how an entire biome was missed, - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- unless it's more of a categorization thing. As in, we thought it was part of another biome but it was actually its own distinct area. Though the way Professor Rouhani said it, I got the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- impression it was /new/ new." Kayleigh@crystyl:"I would not raise any false hope for grand adventure in the mysterious unknown here. If it were anything so anomalyous they would not send a trio of cadets along, even if there were specific value - Kayleigh@crystyl:- to T'Mer's presence" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Yeah, we probably wouldn't be going on a chase again like last time!" She laughs Kayleigh@crystyl:"I would hope the Professors would never put such an unusual experience on any of us outside of the holodeck..." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"I'm sure they won't!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris turns as the door behind them slides open while they converse and a Coridan female in a Starfleet Science uniform with Lieutenant pips steps in Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Coridan: "You must be the cadets coming with us." Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "I am Cadet Kayleigh, this is Cadet Tanglao and T'Mer" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Coridan: "I'm Lieutenant Olis, geological sciences. Professor Lycas should be with us shortly, but I'll fill you in on the details while we await him." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Thank you Lieutenant. We know almost nothing about the context of this assigment other than that the biome went unnoticed until recently and this is the second expedition. So any further light you - Kayleigh@crystyl:- shed would be most welcome" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis nods, "Do you know why the biome has gone unnoticed?" Kayleigh@crystyl shakes her head, "We were actually just debating that when you arrived" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis takes out her PADD, tapping on it before turning to show the cadets, "This is a particularly mountainous region of the Sphere surface, home to multiple alpine and subalpine biomes. We've - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - been aware of this area for some time, but we haven't gotten around to conducting proper surveys of it yet. Before now though, there wasn't an indication of anything special here." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Are you implying that something has recently changed to make that indication?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "Coalition computer scientists discovered the presence of a Custodian AI that doesn't line up with any Custodian facilities located in the mountain ranges. The USS Long Island was sent - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - to investigate, but their scans couldn't detect anything either. The Coalition did gain access to the Custodian facility's transporters though, and several Nuhar drones were transported - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - through for scouting the area." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Intriguing. So the remote analysts located the AI but a team on the ground could not. I can certainly see why this warranted further attention, and T'Mer's presence given the possibility of the AI - Kayleigh@crystyl:- being disconnected from the others and so not in sync with current affairs" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis nods, "As it turns out, the biome is located..." she taps the PADD and the image zooms in beneath the mountains, displaying an only partial map of a cavern system, "beneath the mountains - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - and highlands. A vast underground biome, possibly even several, spanning below the entire elevated region. It is entirely cut off from the other biomes, with the only passage in and out being - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - the Sphere's own transport system. That explains why we've never seen or accessed the biome before, but why the AI is disconnected we still don't know." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Or why the Long Island was unable to repeat the success of the analysts. Regarding our roles in this, T'Mer's value is a given and Cadet Tanglao has a biology focus to assist. Am I to focus on - Kayleigh@crystyl:- providing security?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "I think it's also because the two of you were asked by the Commandant to look after T'Mer. The Professor selected the personnel, I'm sure he has his reasons. He's a Vulcan after all," - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - she smiles. "Everything you do has logic behind it." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Of course. And whilst my function as one of T'Mer's mentors is a given, I remain hopeful that this is not my only means of contributing while we are out there" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "I'm sure it isn't. You're...Tactical?" Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "Yes, I am tactical. Though I have maintained a diverse range of studies across all three core sectors, so it would be of no consequence to assist in whatever capacity I can provide the most - Kayleigh@crystyl:- support in" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis nods, "I'm sure you'll be of great help with us!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"I just hope it is as you say and the Professor has something specific in mind" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris looks to T'Mer, "Speaking of Security, are you still thinking of going in that direction in your studies, or have any other fields perked your interest?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "I will likely seek to transfer my training to date in the field so that I can relate my past experience to the Starfleet methods, however I am still learning about all of the different - Kayleigh@crystyl:- specializations here and will likely choose another focal area once I understand them all better" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Let us know if you ever need help choosing! Kay was very helpful for me making my own decision." Kayleigh@crystyl:"And that discussion actually made me think more about keeping an open mind as to my own choices before specializing in the final year" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer smiles, "I can always count on you two!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | As they speak, voices begin coming down the hall beyond Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "I will not be involved in these experiments of yours, Captain Pall. They are far too dangerous." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Pall: "Come on, Professor! The Admiral's signed off on them!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "I fail to see how the Admiral's approval equates to my approval." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Pall: "They saved your life!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "The Architect played a crucial role in that procedure as well. By your logic, should I have assisted him as well?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Pall: "You know that's not what I mean. You Vulcans don't really feel and all, but you worked on the Valley Forge during the whole journey here and throughout the Horde War. Surely you want to - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - help get them back." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "It is precisely because I served with them that I am confident in Captain Se'Lai's ability to lead them back, if they are still alive." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas comes into view outside the door. A Tellarite wearing a captain's uniform walks beside him. Viewers would recognized him as Captain Pall of the Midway Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Pall: "And we're just supposed to leave them out there?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Being alone in unfamiliar territory is what Starfleet crews are trained to do." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Pall: "Sure, but that doesn't mean there isn't significant risk involved. For every success story like the Voyager there's at least one tragedy like the Equinox. Often more." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Your judgement is clouded by your inability to aid the Valley Forge when it disappeared, Captain. There is also risk involved in experimenting with the fabric of reality, risks which - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - I strongly advise against taking as they may result in far more than the loss of four starships." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Pall: "If it's so risky, wouldn't an Iconian expert like yourself prefer to help with it yourself to make sure it's done as well as possible?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "I would prefer that the Midway do not conduct these experiments at all, but I do not have the authority to give you any orders. Proceed with the experiments at your own peril, but I - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - will not have any involvement with them." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Pall sighs, "I guess there's nothing I can say to convince you, huh? You argue tough, for a Vulcan." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "The benefits of having logic on your side, Captain." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | As Pall turns and heads off, Lycas looks to the cadets and the lieutenant, "Apologies for the delay. I seem to have been caught in an unplanned Tellarite debate." Kayleigh@crystyl:"That sounded quite serious. He is clearly highly invested" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Unfortunately, I do not believe there is any dissuading him. I can only hope that he and his crew are careful with their experiments. I have seen too many accidents arising from such - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - dangerous research." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Then forgive my presumptuousness Professor, but would not be the logical choice then to heed to his request and provide oversight to their work in order to prevent them from doing anything too - Kayleigh@crystyl:- dangerous? It might not be the capacity the Captain was asking for, but he would get what he wanted in your involvement and you would have the knowledge of keeping a reign on the safety of their - Kayleigh@crystyl:- experiment?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Perhaps. I am a specialist of xenotechnology however, and it is not the use of Iconian technology which is the dangerous element here. It would normally be a risk factor, but with the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - Heralds and Iconians present," he nods to T'Mer slightly, "I do not believe it will be a cause for serious concern. It is the nature of interacting with still poorly understood space-time - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- phenomena which concerns me, and for that an expert on physics would be far better suited." Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "I see, so it is more a case that the Captain is pursuing your participation under false pretences then. Perhaps he simply needs redirecting towards someone else more closely suited" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "I do not believe he is mistaken in that I may have some knowledge to contribute to his project. However, that would require experimentation with an active Iconian gateway rather than - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - subspace probes they are testing now. That would add even more risk to the endeavour, which is why I refused to participate. But your logic in redirecting him towards other specialists who may - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - be able to supervise these current experiments is sound." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Thank you for the explanation Professor, I believe I now properly understand your reasoning" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "And thank you for your suggestion, Cadet. I will identify some suitable experts to recommend to Captain Pall when we return from this excursion. But first, are you all prepared to - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - proceed?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"For the most part, I believe so yes. Though I remain a little uncertain how I can best contribute outside of my role as mentor to T'Mer" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "The Long Island team do not report any threat in the new biome beyond a few predators which should pose minimal danger to us. However, the Custodian facility of this biome has for some - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - reason been cut off from the rest, and we are not yet certain as to why. If its systems turn on us at some point, your tactical skills may be needed." Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "Understood, security focus it is then. For your own reference Professor, I did already highlight to the Lieutenant as well that my studies are not solely based in tactical and so if at any - Kayleigh@crystyl:- time I can better benefit the expedition through other roles, I believe I have a sufficient basic comprehension across most key areas to be able to assist" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "I am certain your general knowledge will come in use as well." He hands Kayleigh a phaser. "Take this. A low to moderate stun should suffice on any predators should they begin showing - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - signs of aggression." Kayleigh@crystyl takes it, checking the settings and clipping it to her belt, "Understood. Is this the full expedition party now or will be rendezvousing with others there?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "This is the extent of our team, but the Long Island have a significant portion of their crew within the biome conducting their own research. We will likely be working alongside many of - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - them." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Ok, I think that was all the questions I had up front" she looks to the others, "Apologies, it was not my intention to monopolize the Professors attention upon his arrival" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris chuckles, "Don't worry, you had good questions! And I have all the information I was wondering about too now." She glances to the phaser at Kayleigh's side. "I do hope you have better aim with - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - that than the vegetables though..." she grins Kayleigh@crystyl groans, "Given the circumstances, that aim was not unacceptable. Rest assured that the deadliness - or lack thereof in the vegetables case - was a weighted factor when taking the shot, and such a - Kayleigh@crystyl:- weighting is naturally a lot different for a phaser even on a stun setting" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris chuckles and pats Kayleigh on the back, "I'm kidding Kay! I know you're much better with something you've actually trained with." Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer has a lightbulb moment, "Oh! Then perhaps you should start training with vegetables too then!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"I don't think that would be very practical...could be fun, though!" Kayleigh@crystyl pinches the bridge of her nose, "I would prefer not to start explaining everything wrong with that statement, intention aside. It would unfair to our delay our current assignment so long" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer sighs, "Very well" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Let us transport over to our destination, then." He steps onto the transporter pad Mariel Tanglao@anncaris follows with Lieutenant Olis Kayleigh@crystyl & T'Mer also join them Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas looks to the transporter operator once they are all on the pad, "Energize." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The team disappear into transporter beams, rematerializing on a very similar transporter in a different-looking Iconian facility. A Saurian lieutenant steps up to them Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Saurian: "Welcome to the Ventricle. I'm Lieutenant Kechzo, Chief Security Officer of the Long Island." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "You've named it already?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo: "Ventricles are the lower chambers of the heart. I think it started with the doctor, but the term's spread to everyone here by now," he chuckles Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"It has a ring to it, I think!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"The name does not seem out of place against other established naming conventions in installations such as the Heart" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | T'Mer: "Oh! The Sphere is also called the Heart, so the underground area is being named after the lower parts of biological hearts. I get it!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo: "Yes, that was the intention. Come with me, I'll take you to the research base we're setting up." Kayleigh@crystyl follows the group Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo: "We were going to set up base in the Custodian facility itself at first, but since we still don't know what's wrong with it, if anything, we decided not to run the risk of it suddenly - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - turning against us, so we're making the base outside. It's not much more work, seeing as there's no weather to deal with in here." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Seems a reasonable precaution given the circumstances" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo: "Of course, if the Custodian does decide we're not friends anymore, we'll still have to make our way back to the transporters here to get out, since the Long Island's transporters - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - can't cut through the mountains here. But we'll have a chance at evac, rather than getting betrayed in our sleep." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Has there been any development in relations with the Custodian here yet?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo: "The Custodian AIs are very basic. They're not true AI from what I understand. Some of the Coalition computer team who discovered it and got the connection back online is here trying - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - to learn more, but as far as I know we're still not sure what issues it had. Could be anything from natural degradation to sabotage from back when we fought with the Horde over the Sphere, - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - which is why we're being so careful. I doubt there'll be anything too serious, but better to be safe than sorry." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Of course" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | As the team continues on, a door opens ahead of them. Unlike the other doors they've passed through so far, there is no hint of any further corridor beyond, but only darkness Kayleigh@crystyl looks around curiously, trying to adjust her eyes as this was quite unexpected Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo steps through the door first, followed by Lycas and Olis, then the cadets. As they emerge on the other side, they realize that it is not a pitch black cavern, but there is a surprising - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - abundance of lighting. It is far from as bright as the Sphere surface lit by the sun, but the lighting is enough for them to make out their surroundings, which grow clearer and clearer as - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - their eyes adjust to the dim illumination... Mariel Tanglao@anncaris FX | https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DpdSz3uUUAAVFMb?format=jpg&name=4096x4096 — Mariel Tanglao@anncaris looks around the massive cavern in amazement, "When I heard we'd be going to an underground biome, I was expecting cave systems, more like tunnels..." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo chuckles, "Well we've got those too, but there's also really big areas like this. That's why we call it the Ventricles- big chambers and all." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Was all this artificially created, or are we looking at a naturally evolved state from the time since the sphere was first abandoned?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo: "A combination of both from what we've been able to tell. The caverns were always this massive, but there's signs that they've expanded over the years too. Some of the tunnels don't - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - seem to be natural formations, but the science personnel think at least some have formed by water and acid over the years." Kayleigh@crystyl listens, "Interesting, thank you for the exposition" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo: "Talk to the scientists when we reach the camp if you want to know more. I've just looked at the reports, they've been studying the place in detail since we first got here." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | As they traverse the cavern, they begin to notice Nuhar drones flying about Kayleigh@crystyl points them out, "Are these with the expedition or are they native to this biome?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo: "These are ones we brought along to help us map out the caverns. There's native ones that maintain the biome just like all the other Custodian facilities. They seem to be working fine - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - but we don't want to tamper with the Custodian in case something is wrong, so they're just going about their usual duties still." Kayleigh@crystyl:"I take it they aren't showing any adverse reaction to our presence at least then?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo: "Before we transported in here, the Coalition computer team made sure all Coalition lifeforms were added to the Custodian's IFF system. Since then we haven't had any issues." Kayleigh@crystyl:"That is fortunate" she looks to Mariel and T'Mer, "Still, we should be mindful of disturbing things. They might recognize us as friendly, but that doesn't mean they won't take offense if we do - Kayleigh@crystyl:- something to the area that they don't allow" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "If I remember right, the Custodian facilities are designed to maintain the biomes, so it's certainly possible they might not be happy if we disturb things." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo: "We've been careful not to take samples or cause anything that might be a disturbance to the ecosystem. So far we haven't run into any problems." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | As they walk, it becomes clear that some of the light in the distance is not coming from the glowing fungi around the cavern, but more technological sources Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo: "There's our camp. It's not much so far, just a place to set up the bigger equipment and bunk down." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Is there a particular area already assigned for us to setup bunks?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kechzo nods, "We've got an area laid out for you with beds and all. Pretty much all the supplies you can expect from a Starfleet field expedition." Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "Perfectly acceptable" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The group begins to enter the camp, where several officers, mostly wearing blue Sciences uniforms, are at work. They are approached by a woman in a Sciences uniform wearing Lieutenant - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - Commander pips Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | LCDR: "Welcome to our little camp. I'm Commander Isabel Kiyabu Esteves. I run the Science department and serve as XO. Long Island's a small ship." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "I'm Lieutenant Olis, and I assume you already know Professor Lycas." Kayleigh@crystyl:"I am Cadet Kayleigh. This is Cadet Tanglao and Cadet T'Mer" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Esteves chuckles, "Of course. I've heard of T'Mer too- the first Iconian cadet. Quite a milestone." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Esteves: "Cadet Kayleigh...the name sounds familiar, but I don't think we've ever met. Does someone in your family serve here, or am I just mixing up my names?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Both of my parents relocated here, though since I do not carry a family name I find it unlikely that it would prompt any recollection alone. It would be more likely that my name has been mentioned - Kayleigh@crystyl:- in passing, and given your own role it is feasible that you heard it from my father who is CSO on the Guan Yu" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Esteves nods, "That could be it, yes. Anyways, come with me, I'll show you to where your beds are." She turns and leads the way Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | They reach a corner of the camp where five beds have been set up, including an extra long one for T'Mer. There are two small desks too with a computer and several PADDs on one, a couple of - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - folding chairs and various storage crates Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Esteves: "This is where you'll be staying. It's not much, but it's got all the essentials. The replicators are in the centre of the camp, we have a makeshift mess area set up there to eat at." Kayleigh@crystyl:"This will suffice just fine. Thank you for the extra consideration towards T'Mer's needs here as well" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer gives a blank look Kayleigh@crystyl indicates the long bed Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Esteves chuckles, "We heard you were coming, so we had a suitable bed assembled." Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer, "Oh! I see now, then yes thanks are certainly in order" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Esteves: "Let us know if you need any other Iconian-specific accomodations. The height was the more obvious one, but we're still learning what biological Iconians are like, so if there's any - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - special food or anything, just ask a technician and they'll get a replicator pattern downloaded for it." Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer, "Thank you but that will not be necessary. Since I have been living and working among the new settlers since I awoke, I have grown quite accustomed to the nutritional options that they - Kayleigh@crystyl:- have brought here" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Esteves smiles, "Perfect. Well, I'll leave you to settle in here and begin your exploration. There'll always be people around the camp if you have any questions, and the computer'll let you - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - access all the data we've gathered so far." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Thank you Commander" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Esteves: "I suggest reading up on the flora and fauna we've catalogued before setting out, just so you know your environment. There's thermal glasses in the crates if you need them; the fungi - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - provide light but it can still be pretty dark in places." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Understood" — Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | As they settle into their camp, Mariel takes a seat on the bed she chose, scrolling through a PADD Mariel Tanglao@anncaris glances to Olis as she reads, "Do caverns this big tend to form naturally?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "A single cavern as large as this?" she gestures around them. "It's possible in certain conditions, but it's a very rare occurance. There are some massive cave systems that form - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - naturally and have pretty impressive caverns. Generally though, the caverns are a faction of this one in size and are linked together." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "It's very rare to have a single huge chamber like this in nature, then?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "Extremely. But this one isn't natural, is it?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"No, but it was designed this way for a reason..." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris looks over at Kayleigh, "Have you looked at the fauna data yet?" Kayleigh@crystyl shakes her head, "I have not" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris stands, passing over the PADD to Kayleigh, "Check it out. Especially the predators." Kayleigh@crystyl takes the PADD and begins reading through curiously Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | There are a number of predatory species, ranging from small to surprisingly large, making it no wonder that caverns of this scale are needed. The larger species found in each cavern seem to be - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - evolutionarily similar enough, most likely from the same planet, but the smaller species are often radically different. It's very likely that the smaller ones migrated from separate cavern - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - biomes through tunnel systems, while the bigger ones are stuck in their own caverns Kayleigh@crystyl:"I see, so it was built this way to allow larger areas for the predatory variants" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"That's the thing- subterranean predators rarely get as big as these ones. There's a number of large predator I know about that can burrow, but they're not entirely subterranean and wouldn't need a - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- biome like this dedicated to them. Almost half of the species they've found in here either have poor vision or never even evolved eyes, and the other half have extremely light-sensitive eyes - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- meant exclusively for a low light environment. Which is to be expected, but the same pattern goes for the predators too, even the really big ones." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Do you have a theory to explain this?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "We've been calling this a subterranean biome so far because it's located under mountains and highlands. But maybe it's not, or at least, not entirely devoted to subterranean life." Kayleigh@crystyl looks around more, "Do you suspect this was not part of the original biome, and perhaps more of a functional area like the rest of the Heart that the biome overgrew?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Not quite. The Heart's been around since before the Iconian Empire collapsed, so at least 200,000 years. It's a long time, maybe enough for a species trapped underground to start evolving - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- either stronger eyes or weaker eyes and stronger other senses, but definitely not enough to lose eyes entirely or evolve infrared vision." Kayleigh@crystyl:"So what do you think happened here?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"I think these aren't just subterranean biomes, but general 'dark' habitats. Subterranean creatures could be included, but the larger ones are probably surface creatures. Just ones that live on the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- dark side or twilight zone of a tidally locked planet." Kayleigh@crystyl:"That is certainly a sound theory that could explain what we see here" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"This whole Sphere was designed to be like an ark, right? For all the planets that got ruined by the Horde." Kayleigh@crystyl:"That is at least our understanding of it so far, yes" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"It would make sense that they'd store life from all sorts of planets, including ones where the life never see light. But the dyson sphere has a sun right in the middle of it, so all areas have - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - light. Which is good for most life, except the ones that are supposed to live in darkness. Which must be why they built this huge area down here!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Do you think this alternate theory of this biome could impact how we handle ourselves here at all?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris thinks, "Maybe. We already know from their size alone that the bigger predators won't be able to follow us into smaller caves, and smaller predators probably won't be a threat. But if we - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - think they might be evolved to live on a surface rather than underground, that could change a lot of assumptions on their behaviour..." Kayleigh@crystyl:"It is certainly something I will endeavour to keep in consideration then" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"If my theory is right, the big predators probably won't be using echolocation, since that's more useful in caves and underwater than in big open terrain. That could be helpful!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Indeed. These are all valid hypothesis, and it will be interesting to evaluate them as we observe more here" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "As we learn more, we'll probably get more information to see if the theory's right or not! It's exciting being in a completely new place and trying to figure them out, don't you think!" - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - she smiles Kayleigh@crystyl:"It is certainly more exhilerating than the classroom" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Hopefully not /quite/ as exhilarating as the Promenade, though..." she chuckles — Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | After settling into the camp, their team heads out to begin their first proper forey into the massive cavern Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "Now this is what Starfleet is really about, Cadets. Going to unfamiliar places and just exploring." Kayleigh@crystyl:"This is certainly in line with the romanticized vision many people have of it" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "Yes, unfortunately not every mission is like this. Sometimes we have to get ourselves out of a tough spot, sometimes we have to fight and protect ourselves and the Federation, and so - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - on. But these are the moments that make it all worthwhile," she smiles. "And the other, less romantic duties we have to do, they just make times like these more of a highlight." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Agreed. Too much of a good thing can devalue it" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris glances back at T'Mer as Kayleigh and Olis converse, "You were born here, right? In the Sphere I mean, not here as in underground," she chuckles. "Since no one's been here for thousands of years." Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer nods, "Yes, although I am uncertain if 'born' is the correct term for us" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Have you ever gone outside the Heart?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer shakes her head, "I can't imagine why I might need to. Everything I could possibly want is here, including more than a lifetime's worth of exploring!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"That's true, I was just about to say there's more than enough to explore in the Sphere itself! And this mission we're on is evidence of that, isn't it? The surface of this place has the biomes of - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- hundreds of planets, after all!" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "My thoughts exactly!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"So you're planning to stay in the Heart after your studies, just as a part of the Starfleet detachment here?" Kayleigh@crystyl:|T'Mer: "I hadn't really thought about it to be honest. I just assumed that this was where they would want me" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Probably, given the Sphere is Iconian and all. But it could still be interesting seeing some other worlds! The Heart's got all the natural exploration covered, and cultural too with all the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- Coalition members, but seeing the people and ships of a civilization isn't quite the same as going to a planet and seeing all the architecture and historical sites!" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "Have you visited many worlds that are alien to you?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"I've visited a few non-human Federation worlds. Tellar, Pacifica and Denobula. Or do you mean alien, environment wise?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "Either really I suppose. The term alien is very subjective" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Perhaps consider it within the context of our review of this biome and the earlier discussion around this type of mission" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"The most alien place I've been to environmentally has to be Tantor V. It's a Federation colony with a majority human population, so culturally it's very familiar. But it's definitely one of the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- most alien environments I've seen." Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "What made it so different to your home?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"The trees are totally different from Earth trees. And they're blue- all the plants are blue because of the wavelengths they absorb. So looking out onto a plain, it almost looks like you're looking - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- into an ocean or a sky, but it's a field of, well, not grass, but the most common plant that's basically like the grass of that world. But the water and sky are blue too.” Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"It all just...blends together and feels really surreal." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris glances around at the cavern, "It's almost as strange as this place! Just without the giant glowing fungus and blue trees instead." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | As they continue through the cavern, Kayleigh hears a buzzing sound and feels something on her back... Kayleigh@crystyl shudders and jumps, reaching to swat away what she instinctually perceives as an insect Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kayleigh's hand hits something hard and a moment later, a huge beetle bigger than her hand buzzes angrily in circles around her before flying off Kayleigh@crystyl shudders again at the thought of it Mariel Tanglao@anncaris giggles, "Don't worry, that's just one of the critters around here! It's not dangerous." Kayleigh@crystyl:"It does not need to be dangerous to be a nuisance..." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"True. Probably don't want them climbing all over you still!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kayleigh hears some more buzzing and sees another beetle, possibly the same one, land on a glowing mushroom nearby Kayleigh@crystyl:"Yes, even docile critters can be... distracting" she watches it, "I hope this behaviour is not to imply I have something in common with that mushroom..." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris takes out her tricorder and scans the mushroom, "Nothing I can see. These mushrooms give off cold light, so it's definitely not the heat. It probably just needed a spot to land and you were the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - conve- hey!" She snatches her hand back as the beetle clicks and tries to grab the tricorder with its mandibles Kayleigh@crystyl:"They are surprisingly unphased by our presence here. You would think a recent alien encursion into their environment would have triggered a cautious response" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris chuckles, "You're right, they're not dangerous but they can be trouble..." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris taps her tricorder, "Well, they aren't particularly intelligent, but even the most basic insects should have survival instincts..." Kayleigh@crystyl:"The most logical reason would be that they are comfortable around mammalian life because they are used to being around it" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "Well there are bigger mammalian species down here. Actually a good few warm-blooded species from what the Long Island team's surveyed, probably because it's hard to regulate your - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - temperature without direct sunlight and all." Kayleigh@crystyl:"That must be it then. Still, a little surprising that they are so brazen with us. Perhaps a hint of a scavanger instinct like some avians have" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Maybe..." She takes out a little ration bar from her pocket, opening it and breaking off a few crumbs, tossing it under the mushroom. The beetle jumps off and starts collecting them Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"It does feel kinda like feeding birds!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"I was referring more to those who have a historical association with theft and a natural attraction to 'all things shiny', but that is interesting too" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Oh, that! Maybe they're drawn to light, could be why they landed on that mushroom and tried to snatch my tricorder. Would be in line with common insect behaviour on Earth." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Quite possibly" she notes, quietly observing the ration crumb interaction still Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The beetle finishes up the crumbs and circles around, clicking expectantly Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"No more for you, don't want to overfeed you!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"I find it doubtful that it will comprehend your words" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Let's...just leave it to its natural environment and keep going." Kayleigh@crystyl nods and continues Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | They walk on for a little longer, before Mariel stops and turns her tricorder to a mossy rock Kayleigh@crystyl follows still, quietly observing the scientific process and concious not to interrupt her friend while she works Mariel Tanglao@anncaris steps back from the rock after a moment, "That was a lifeform, and not one that was in the Long Island's data. Must not have been something they came across yet!" Kayleigh@crystyl perks a brow, looking back to the rock, "Silicone based?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Oh no, carbon based. It just looks like a rock for camouflage. Or I'm guessing that's why. It looks like it's hibernating, or just has an extremely low metabolism." Kayleigh@crystyl:"I see" she tilts her head, studying the creature, "Impressive" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"I think it might be like a sloth. Low metabolism creatures like this could support the theory that some lifeforms here belong on the dark side of a planet or something. Not a lot of energy to go - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - around in those environments!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"That certainly does seem consistent" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Let's keep going and not disturb the sleeping rock-sloth." Kayleigh@crystyl:"A wise approach" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Continuing onwards, Kayleigh notices the first dangerous lifeform in the cave- a large creature trudging through the mushrooms on four long, spindley legs. Its sizable mouth and sharp teeth - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - within suggests a predatory nature Kayleigh@crystyl:rolls 47 (1-100) Kayleigh@crystyl cautions the group to slow down, "That creature may not be as docile as the beetles. It bears a striking resemblance to a Hengrauggi" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "An excellent observation, Cadet. Let us keep at a distance from it, then." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The group slows, letting the creature pass before they proceed Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | A few minutes after passing the large predator, T'Mer's taller height and resulting sightline advantage makes her the first to spot a skeleton of one such predator, lying in the midst of a - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - field of glowing mushrooms Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer points it out, "Hey, isn't that the skeleton of one of those big creatures?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris looks over, "I think you're right. We must be in their territory or something. At least they're pretty big and not easy to miss, even in this lighting..." Kayleigh@crystyl:"It is possible that these creatures observe habitual end of life behaviour, and that one we saw was protecting this resting place" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "Let's stay away from the skeleton, then. Don't want to make it angry!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"That would be prudent" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The team circles away from the skeleton, and avoiding the area, ends up near the edge of the cavern — Mariel Tanglao@anncaris FX | https://preview.redd.it/u320dus1k2b11.jpg?auto=webp&s=6355813770edd16477d82c317754338e058a6ec4 Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Near the edge of the massive cavern, the group reach an area with a river flowing through Mariel Tanglao@anncaris runs up to the river, admiring the scenary for a moment before opening her tricorder to scan the water Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Seems to be normal water. There's some bacteria in it, but nothing spectacular. Oooh, and at least one small fish species..." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Good to know we don't have to worry about water down here then" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis nods, "And it's a whole different environment we can study. If there's small rivers like this, there might be bigger underground lakes and reservoirs." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris looks up from her tricorder and freezes, staring at something across the river Kayleigh@crystyl:"Possible, although I would expect any such larger bodies to be on the surface in an artifical biome con... sstruc...tion...?" trails off, her words continuing with Olis but her tone addressing the - Kayleigh@crystyl:- look from Mariel Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"There were people here. On the other side of the river." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "That's impossible. The Long Island team hasn't surveyed this area yet, that's why we came in this direction." Kayleigh@crystyl shakes her head, "I have seen this reaction in Cadet Tanglao before, Sir. This is a psionic vision of the past" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "Well my people were here once. Is that what you are seeing Mariel?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"No, they're definitely not Iconians. They're not wearing Starfleet uniforms so they're not part of the Long Island team either. They're pretty short, not a species I recognize." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Nuhar, perhaps? They aided in the construction of the Heart as well." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "Maybe. I saw them go that way," she points across the river Kayleigh@crystyl:"Could be a point of interest worth pursuing" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "A Nuhar facility, something technology other than the Custodian?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"It is certainly a possibility, and the anomaly could well provide more information as to the anomalous nature of this Custodian too" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | T'Mer's height comes into use again as she is able to see some rocks in the middle of the river in the distance which makes for a good point for crossing! Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer points them out, "If that is the direction we are to go, I can see a crossing point up ahead" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "Good spot, Cadet! Come on. I hope everyone's up for a little rock jumping..." Kayleigh@crystyl:"I am sure we can handle it" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The team head over towards the rocks and begins skipping their way across... Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:rolls 92 (1-100 Kayleigh@crystyl:rolls 36 (1-100 Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | T'Mer loses her balance slightly, but fortunately the river is very shallow so she is able to step in it, albeit getting her boots wet... Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The rest of the team manage to make it across the river without incident and Mariel turns to T'Mer as she arrives, "You okay?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer leans against a rock with one hand, slipping off a boot and draining out the water. Then swapping to the next and draining out the water with a small fish too, "Fortunately my skin is - Kayleigh@crystyl:- waterproof" she laughs Mariel Tanglao@anncaris laughs at the fish as well, "We can dry them up back at camp! All good to keep walking on?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer nods, "Of course" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"I saw them go that way, pass the tall mushroom there," she points and begins leading the way Kayleigh@crystyl follows closely, keeping an eye on Mariel's surroundings for her in case she gets too engrossed in her memory and misses something Mariel Tanglao@anncaris does indeed miss something as she heads towards an entrance into a smaller tunnel, but Kayleigh spots some technological devices placed around the tunnel entrance... Kayleigh@crystyl sets a hand on Mariel's shoulder, "Hold on" indicating the devices once she has her attention" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris stops, looking at the devices, "Wha- oh! I didn't see them...what are they?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"I don't know yet" she comments, taking out her tricorder to investigate Kayleigh@crystyl:"Sonic emitters. Most likely to deter wildlife from encroaching, but capable of causing damage if attuned to a high enough frequency" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas steps up to the two, opening his own tricorder, "I am configuring a signal that will interfere with the proximity sensor so they will not activate. Curious. These devices are not - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - Iconian nor Nuhar technology. They do not match anything in the Sphere systems that I have encountered." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Any similarity to known technologies at all?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "It is closer to the technologies employed by the Coalition today, though I cannot say specifically which group it belongs to from these emitters alone." Kayleigh@crystyl:"But the Coalition has not been here prior to the Long Island. Professor, we should consider the possibility that the unknown infiltrators who targeted the Challenger may be involved, I believe" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas nods, "Do you believe we should call for additional support in investigating this?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"I would not wish to raise false panic, so no. Also, if they are present then we can not trust that communications are secure. I believe the best recommendation would be... to verify the status of - Kayleigh@crystyl:- others teams as a courtesy check in, same back to base. That would allow us to confirm the readily available backup if needed without raising suspicion if anything is being tapped" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Excellent logic, Cadet. Check in with the other teams and the base camp. I will disable the sonic emitters when we are ready to proceed." Kayleigh@crystyl nods, tapping her communicator as she steps aside to do all the check-ins Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Kayleigh checks in with the base and other teams. All goes smoothly, and she is done a few minutes later Kayleigh@crystyl returns to the others, "All done Professor, base signal is good and all teams are progressing well" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas nods, "Let us proceed, then." He taps his tricorder and walks through the cave entrance... Kayleigh@crystyl follows closely, being extra vigilant now Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The tunnel beyond is a much more conventional cave, narrow and confined. There are twists and turns and the terrain generally seems to be sloping downwards, as they seem to be going deeper and - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - deeper beneath the Sphere surface Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | As they walk, T'Mer notices a familiar sight among some glowing plants- several small Iconian technological components, along with a few Iconian power cells Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer stops to investigate, "This is certainly our technology. Though I do not believe it belongs down here with this fungus" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "No, it most certainly does not. Not as individual components and loose power cells, at least." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis shines her flashlight around, pointing out some marks on the rock, "Look at this. Something slammed into the cave wall here, right above these pieces. Given the weight it must've had to - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - make a mark, I think someone was probably moving a larger Iconian device and these pieces fell off on impact." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Iconian technology is usually built sturdy enough to resist major impact. It is more likely they were transporting crates of loose components and power cells, from which several - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - fell upon impact. But the resulting conclusion is the same- there must be something technological beyond here." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Something that has much more recently been interfered with, at that" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas nods, "A troubling revelation indeed." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Should we collect these pieces? So they're not just lying around here." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "That's probably a good idea," she gathers up the components before they move on Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | They go further down through the cave, before coming to another cavern, this one a rather small one compared to the massive one they came from, though regular-sized when compared to natually - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - occuring cave systems. The same glowing fungi surround it, but the centre of the cavern is a large circular platform that is clearly artificial. A spherical Iconian console juts out from the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - centre of the platform Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "Now that seems a bit more like it" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "That is certainly of Iconian make, unlike the devices at the entrance." Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "Do you want me to use it and find out what it can tell us?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "I will come with you." He makes his way towards the console Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer joins him while Kayleigh observes Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "Nothing insightful here. This is just configured to serve as a control for the platform" Kayleigh@crystyl perks a brow, "Platform?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer nods, indicating around herself, "Yes, the platform. It goes down from here" Kayleigh@crystyl:"It feels like if we keep going down we're going to pop out an airlock on the outer hull of the sphere..." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"That's what I was thinking, too. Any idea where this leads to?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer shakes her head, "There is nothing more to indicate a purpose from here. I would surmise that if anything, it would be a service level from the construction of the sphere" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "There is nowhere else to go from here. Whoever has come here lately must have also used this lift to access these service levels." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"We might lose comms if we go down there. Maybe one of us can modify our combadge to serve as a makeshift buoy, like Professor Rouhani taught us?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"That would be a wise precaution" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"You want to try your hand at it, or should I?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"I believe you should attempt it this time. Given what we are going into, you have a much higher chance of being preoccupied with your duties should the need to react arise" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods and takes off her combadge, making the necessary modifications. She works away for a few minutes before setting the completed buoy on a rock by the lift with a smile, "There!" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer watches, "So... fiddling with technology is ok then...?" Kayleigh@crystyl groans, "Under the right circumstances" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"And only if it's safe! Something we understand well, like our own combadges. Not new alien tech, if it can be avoided." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas nods, "That is what xenotechnology specialists such as myself are for." Kayleigh@crystyl:"And no, T'Mer. That does not give you license to hound the professor every time you have a ill-conceived inventive idea" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer thinks about a retort, but decides better of it and nods, "I learned my lesson earlier, don't worry" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Shall we activate the lift and proceed?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"I believe we are ready" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The entire team gathers on the platform, and Lycas gives T'Mer a nod Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer activates the platform and down they go... — Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The platform lowers them into a setting that is now fully Iconian, with no sign of any rocky cave. The lift settles at the very bottom of the room, and the railings around it deactivate, - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - allowing the team to disembark Kayleigh@crystyl immediately starts scanning and surveying their surroundings for initial signs of danger Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | There are no signs of danger. Her tricorder picks up only the odd movement of maintenance drones through nearby passageways. Looking around, she sees three different doors leading out of the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - chamber they are in, as well as a number of Iconian consoles dotted around Kayleigh@crystyl:"I can detect nothing untoward in this first chamber; everything is as it appears to be as far as I can tell" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer starts investigating the consoles Mariel Tanglao@anncaris looks around at the three doors, "Not getting any visions here, so I'm not sure which way we should go..." Kayleigh@crystyl tries scanning each in turn to determine what lies beyond Kayleigh@crystyl:rolls 93 (1-100) Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "As I thought, these appear to be the original construction and service sections. They probably centralize with the full maintenance routes as well, but since those are designed for drones- Kayleigh@crystyl:- then these would not be overly connected" Kayleigh@crystyl:"I have lifesigns in this direction. Though..." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris looks over, "Though?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"My tricorder is providing an identity, though I am unfamiliar with the name and now find myself questioning the calibration on it" turning to Lycas, showing the scan, "A species called 'Sydarrimyr'- Kayleigh@crystyl:- Sir?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "I do not recognize the name either, but the Heart is home to many different species. Even I am not familiar with all of them, only the major players within the Coalition. We are - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - too far to check Starfleet databases for the name." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"We could use the comm relay! Check in with base camp and ask them to look it up." Kayleigh@crystyl:"If it's coming up in my tricorder, then it is coming from the Starfleet database apparently" she nods to Mariel, "A prudent measure to verify the integrity of the results" she starts tapping to - Kayleigh@crystyl:- sync her tricorder to the comm signal and cross check against central library files Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The database does recognize the name and has some basic biological data on the species, which is probably how her tricorder identified the lifesigns. However, the actual library file for the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - species seems incomplete. There is no homeworld on record, only that they originate from this rimward region. The species is apparently aligned with the Rimward Coalition and its status is - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - endangered. The categories on their culture, technology and other details are all blank Kayleigh@crystyl:"Curious, nothing more than a token entry basically acknowledging their existence but providing no actual detail to speak of. It does at least note an endangered status, so we should consider that" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Let me see..." Kayleigh@crystyl shows her the data Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"If this is tied to all the infiltrations...you think someone might've erased the data from the library?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Nothing is impossible. It is in fact equally conceivable at this point that the library entry was falsely created for the same connection" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"I guess we'll have to go and see who they are." Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "We can learn nothing more without doing so" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Let us proceed carefully. We do not know why these Sydarrimyr are here and what they may be capable of." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Yes Sir" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas leads the way through the door cautiously, leaving his tricorder running in one hand as he proceeds Kayleigh@crystyl guards him closely, also scanning actively as they progress Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The team enters a long Iconian corridor. After a few minutes of walking, they reach a junction, but the lifesigns are still visible, making it easy to determine which way to go Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | As the lifesigns draw closer, Kayleigh's tricorder begins detecting other things, namely, heightened drone activity in the area as well as the presence of materials unlike others in the area, - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - but it does match materials used in modern Coalition items Kayleigh@crystyl highlights the new readings to the others Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Interesting. These are clearly not native to the Iconian/Nuhar environment. There is also no sign of unusually technology that may be of a temporal origin." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "No sign of active weapons, either, though that doesn't necessarily mean they aren't dangerous." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas nods, looking to Kayleigh, "We will be approaching the lifesigns soon. Have your phaser ready, Cadet." Kayleigh@crystyl checks her weapon and keeps it ready, "I am prepared Sir" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The team continues ahead, and soon another door comes into view... Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The door slides open as the team reaches it, revealing an area with a number of crates, clearly modern in design and not Iconian. Short bipeds immediately skittle behind the crates as the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - door opens, not giving the team a good look at them. However, the team can hear them chittering about in an alien language behind the crates Kayleigh@crystyl:"I get the distinct impression my phaser will not be required for this. Professor, we are inexperienced with first contact" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "It also seems to me that these beings may not be threatening. You have already learned the fundamental principles of first contact as a second year cadet, have you not?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Well, yes. But we have no actual experience and there is a clear language barrier already" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The chittering stops and one of the aliens suddenly darts out from behind a crate, dropping to his knees on the ground, "We surrender!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Perhaps not. This may be an adequate time for you to put what you have learned to practice, as we are in no immediate danger." Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "Understood Sir" turning to the skittish little alien. She takes a deep breath to centre herself before holding her hands out slightly to her sides non- threateningly after clipping her - Kayleigh@crystyl:- phaser back to her belt, "Can you understand me?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The alien has a somewhat Ferengi-like face, but largely as a result of the large ears and height. On closer inspection, the ears are set much higher on the head than a Ferengi and are closer - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - to a bat's. The aliens also seem to stand shorter than even the average Ferengi. They lack the distinct head lobes, and most different of all, their heads and bodies are covered with fur save - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - for their face, like that of a monkey Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "Yes. I understand you! You have uniform. You are with Coalition, yes?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Yes that is right. We do not mean you any harm so there is no need for you to fear us here" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "Really? You are...not here to arrest? But you have uniform..." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Many organizations wear uniforms, not only law enforcers. This is a Starfleet uniform, if you know the Coalition then do you know the name Starfleet as well?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "We have heard the name, yes! You are ones who built the Coalition and destroyed the Horde?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Well, we helped, yes. So you see, we are not here to hurt you or anything untoward like that. We were simply investigating this area and detected your presence. Since it was also unexpected we had - Kayleigh@crystyl:- come and see what was going on here" she looks around the room, "What... is going on here, if I might ask?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "We are, uhh...moving technology!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Right... So from your initial reaction and fear of reprisals, I feel it safe to assume that it is not your technology to remove, right?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The Sydarrimyr hangs his head, "No. It's technology from the Heart." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "I am detecting various Iconian and Nuhar technologies within these crates." Kayleigh@crystyl steps closer and kneels down to the Sydarrimyr's level, "Ok, remember we are all friends here. So tell me, why are you moving the Heart's technology?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "It's valuable. It's everywhere here, you don't even think about it. But outside the Sphere? Very, very valuable." Kayleigh@crystyl:"And inside the Sphere it is very, very functional. Whilst I understand the fundamentals of capitalism, I do not understand what would compel someone to knowingly take what is not theirs to take. - Kayleigh@crystyl:- What is your reason for seeking the valuable technology? I mean, it is clearly implied that the value is prized so one would naturally assume you seek capital gain from it. But what do you need - Kayleigh@crystyl:- that for?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "To rebuild. We didn't take anything that will damage the Heart! Nothing that can't be reproduced and replaced! We are good with technology, yes. Once we were the centre of a great - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - merchant alliance. Our technology was coveted for light years. Both our own, and modifications using Nuhar and Iconian technology. So we know very well how things work. Back then, our - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - mechanists, they would understand the Heart much better than most here. Second only to Iconians and Nuhar themselves, yes!" Kayleigh@crystyl smiles briefly before catching herself, "That is very impressive indeed! What happened to your great merchant alliance though, you said you had to rebuild?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The Sydarrimyr nods sadly, "The Horde came. The Aldamyn, the ones that managed most of the trade, said we had to destroy our cities before the Dead Fleet came. Otherwise, very bad. Horde - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - thralls would get technology, and then Dead Fleet would destroy whole galaxy, turn everybody into thralls! Very, very bad. So we burned everything. Scattered to the stars. But we kept our - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - knowledge, yes. Some became scavengers. Some sold our skills to others, incorporated powerful technologies into ships for Lupan and Guardians and Clenduros." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Starfleet is familiar with your work. Our explorers have encountered many of these modified vessels. Your mechanist's skills are impressive" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The Sydarrimyr smiles, "Yes, very impressive! But all these generations, we have done work for others. Very little for ourselves. Now that Horde is gone, many of us have come together to try - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - and rebuild. Coalition promises to help find new home planet, have place to rebuild from. Very good, yes. But only land. Good start, but no technology! Only technology are old ships that have - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - been flying for generations, barely even holding together. All good work, done for others to stay alive." Kayleigh@crystyl:"I believe I understand your predicament, and you have my sympathies for it. You know though, that what you are doing here is wrong, clearly. So it would not be wise for it to continue, as the only - Kayleigh@crystyl:- logical outcome is that you will eventually run out of sustainable salvage even here and then find yourselves forced to try and take more. Please, allow me a moment to speak with my friends? I am - Kayleigh@crystyl:- confident that we can find a better solution here but I must take guidance" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "Speak, speak. No worry, we will not run. Nowhere to run from here but out into space, and ship isn't here yet to take us away!" Kayleigh@crystyl smiles again, "And that is a whole other matter for a later conversation..." turning with fresh composure to the others Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"These are the beings I saw at the river! Short little humanoid species." Kayleigh@crystyl:"And quite troublesome, albeit innocently" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Olis: "So they're using the underground biomes to smuggle Iconian technology off the Heart without the Coalition knowing." Kayleigh@crystyl:"And managing to access them from outside the Sphere. Impressive in itself given the difficulties the collective forces of the Alpha Quadrant first had in gaining entry to one" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "They do claim to be proficient in working with Nuhar and Iconian technology. Perhaps they were even involved in tampering with the Custodian here." Kayleigh@crystyl:"I believe that is the most likely scenario here, and a potential avenue towards resolving their situation. Assuming of course that we do not want to have them continue scavanging the Heart from - Kayleigh@crystyl:- beneath us" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"I don't imagine the Coalition will be very pleased with that," she looks to T'Mer, "You were with Coalition Security when we met you! What's the Coalition procedure for dealing with this smuggling?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "They would most likely be detained and questioned to find out more about their operation. Cooperation would lead to the possibility of release for them, and the matter would be handed - Kayleigh@crystyl:- over to the fleet to deal with" Kayleigh@crystyl:"All fine in principle, but I do not believe such a simple approach will ultimately reign the activity in" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "What is your suggestion then, Cadet?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Firstly, I would recommend enlisting this group to assist us with restoring the Custodian here. Whilst allowing us to ensure they do not continue their activity, it will also provide opportunity to- Kayleigh@crystyl:- learn more about them - including their claimed proficiency with this technology. Though at this time I have no reason to doubt it, and the relatively common practice of retrofitting it to ships - Kayleigh@crystyl:- operated by species who clearly lack the technological knowledge to work with it has always eluded a full resolution" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "And once they aid us in restoring the Custodian, what shall be done about their desire for Iconian technology then?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"I would suggest gaining the trust of this group and when their ship returns to collect them, have them bring it into the Sphere openly as Coalition guests. The goal would be to engage with the - Kayleigh@crystyl:- leadership here to negotiate long term settlement within the Sphere for their people. I believe there is currently more than enough demand for their technical expertise, and not just with the new - Kayleigh@crystyl:- fleet project to integrate many of these technologies, but also the redevelopment of the Sphere itself. I believe there is more than enough unclaimed real estate within the sphere itself for them - Kayleigh@crystyl:- to be accomodated and the work for their mechanists will be virtually neverending. The scavangers of their society could provide much greater contributions if properly allocated to the reclamations Kayleigh@crystyl:- of former Horde territory. And their merchant core could provide the unilateral expertise still needed here to centralize the multitude of different economies that are still drastically - Kayleigh@crystyl:- fluctuating in this region" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas nods in approval, "Your logic is sound, Cadet. Since you've been communicating with them so far, I shall let you offer your proposal to them. I will coordinate with the Coalition once we - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - return." Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "Very well Sir, thank you" she turns back, looking for her little not-Jawa-or-Ewok friend Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "You have spoken to your people, yes? What have you agreed on?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Well first off, I would very much like it if you could help us out while we are here" she smiles, kneeling again Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "Yes, we will help. We will help and you won't arrest us?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"We have no intention of arresting you. Quite the contrary actually, those believe in luck or fortune might say that our encounter with you here today is quite fortuitous, or good luck" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The Sydarrimyr smiles, "Good, very good! Then we will help. What do you need us to do? Implement Sphere technologies into your ships? Help you study the systems here?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Well, we would like for your people to focus on helping with that yes. We are currently designing and building the first of a new generation of the most advanced starships you've ever seen, using - Kayleigh@crystyl:- technology and ideals from across the whole Coalition. Your expertise with those technologies, and the more common ones you retrofit them to will be invaluable. But more than that, we believe - Kayleigh@crystyl:- there is sufficient demand for your peoples skills across the Sphere itself as more and more areas are redeveloped and repurosed. For those of you who favour salvaging, there are countless - Kayleigh@crystyl:- expeditions from here into former Horde space to reclaim technology and redevelop worlds like the one promised to your people. Theres more salvage out there than you will know what to do with, and- Kayleigh@crystyl:- you could be invaluable to those expeditions with your knowledge of the trade. We also have need here for your merchants, as there are many different economies coming together here and they are - Kayleigh@crystyl:- all highly volatile still. Those which are not almost always have a conflict of interests, so to have a experts who are native to the Sphere and impartial to all of that economy may be just what - Kayleigh@crystyl:- we need. In return for this, I believe we can identify a suitable region of the Sphere real estate that your people can call their own, possibly negating the need for a planetary colony depending - Kayleigh@crystyl:- on numbers. But I don't want to raise false hope still, this is all purely theory at the moment. For now, we would simply like you to work with us on our current assignment in this biome. When we - Kayleigh@crystyl:- leave, you can come with us and instead of having your ship collect you discretely as normal you can have it welcomed into the Sphere proper as Coalition guests to enter negotiations for this - Kayleigh@crystyl:- larger arrangement" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The Sydarrimyr nods, "Yes, yes, that will do! You think the Coalition will really give us land on the Sphere for helping you here?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"It would be as part of the larger arrangement to guarantee suitable work for all of your people, and subject to the number of said people of course. Now, it is not my place to speak for the whole - Kayleigh@crystyl:- Coalition, but I see no reason why they would not at least be open to the possibility. That is why we must first complete our work here, then my senior officer back there can speak to Coalition - Kayleigh@crystyl:- leaders about opening these talks. We can not promise that which is not ours to give, only that we are willing to help you fight for it if you help us in return" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "We will help you with this assignment first, then! See where it goes. Better than sneaking around here, yes." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Very much so, yes" — Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | After encountering and negotiating with the little aliens, the team takes the lift back up, now accompanied by the little beings. As they ascend, one of them turns to T'Mer Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr #2: "You're Iconian, yes?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer nods, "That's correct, yes I am" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr #2: "We heard that the Coalition was remaking Iconians. Very impressive! Biological technology, not quite our expertise. But still very impressed!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"What they accomplished with the Heart is indeed impressive" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer nods, "Our data was added to the archive very late, when it became apparent that the Empire had fallen. But the capabilities of this facility were known across the Empire!" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr #2: "So you recreated the Iconian species, then? You have been extinct since the Empire fell, yes?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer nods with remorse, "Yes, news of that fall and the gateways being shut down was what prompted those who remained isolated at the Heart to preserve themselves along with all the other samples Kayleigh@crystyl:"Technically they weren't quite extinct, but the few survivors disappeared from the galaxy until quite recently" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr #2: "Really? Iconians survived? How interesting! We thought the entire species was extinct. Only ever find ruins, nothing else." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | When the lift settles, Mariel steps off and retrieves her combadge-turned-makeshift-comm-relay before they continue onwards Kayleigh@crystyl:"The whole galaxy believed so, but there were a handful of survivors who remained in isolation all this time. They have evolved over the last 200,000 years though so do not look much like T'Mer here" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr #2: "Where did you find these survivors?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"They chose to make themselves known to the galaxy when a science expedition from elsewhere in the quadrant reactivated the gate network I believe" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer, "I heard about this, yes. The Elders read it as a sign of the Children once again rising up as a threat and so determined they had to take action once more" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Which resulted in one of the shortest yet most horrendous galactic wars in modern history" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr #2: "But that war did not reach here, yes? Only ever been Horde war here. Maybe some Lupan raids too, but not count as war." Kayleigh@crystyl:"That is right, the conflict took place further coreward from here for the most part. Nobody at that time - even the surviving Iconians, Elders did you call them?" she asks with a glance to T'Mer, - Kayleigh@crystyl:- "Even they did not know know where the Heart now was" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer nods, "That is how we have come to identify them" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr #2: "How did the war end? Elders are still around, yes? That is how you know of them and what they think?" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "I am afraid I have not yet had the opportunity to ask them. And everyone else always seems rather elusive about it all" Kayleigh@crystyl:"That's only because we don't really know the details either, T'Mer. As far as I understand, the conflict came to a head in the Sol System then some Starfleet negotiators opened a dialogue with them- Kayleigh@crystyl:- and then... the fighting was over. Is that right, Professor?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas nods, "That is correect. We managed to negotiate a ceasefire with the Iconians and they withdrew to their former home territory. They did not re-engage with us until the events here at - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - at the Heart." Kayleigh@crystyl:"What stands out as strange is that there is no open record of who even conducted those negotiations, let alone how they were able to establish a dialogue mid conflict and bring it to such an - Kayleigh@crystyl:- expeditious close" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "I am not surprised that you find it strange. That information is classified, though for what purpose I am not at liberty to say." Kayleigh@crystyl:"I understand Sir" Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer: "Well I don't. I mean, the way you say that it seems clear that you were there, or involved somehow. And it's all over now right? So surely it can't be classified still" Kayleigh@crystyl:"T'Mer, it is not appropriate to challenge such things" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "No, but I cannot blame her for being curious of her own people's history. I was not involved in the events myself, but as a xenotechnology specialist with high security clearance - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - studying your military capabilities, I am aware of all the details. Unfortunately, as you do not have the appropriate Starfleet clearance, I am unable to share those details with you. However, - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - if the Elders decide to tell you what occured, that would not break any Starfleet regulations." Kayleigh@crystyl | T'Mer nods: "Thank you Professor. I apologize for overstepping my bound Kayleigh@crystyl:" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas nods back, "Your curiosity is understandable, Cadet." He looks to Kayleigh, "We should inform the camp that we will be returning with guests." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Yes Sir, I will inform them now" she steps away. Kayleigh@crystyl taps her badge, "Kayleigh to Kechzo" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lieutenant Kechzo's voice comes through the combadge, <C> "This is Kechzo." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Lieutenant, our recon party is heading back to camp now. The Professor wanted me advise you that we have some guests with us" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris <C - Kechzo> "Some guests? We're not supposed to be taking specimens, in case it aggrevates the local drones." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Not specimens Sir, bonified guests. We encountered an illegal salvage operation which we now suspect to at least be a part of the problem with the Custodian in this biome. The party with us though - Kayleigh@crystyl:- are not prisoners and they are quite meek beings in all. They have offered to assist us with our expedition to stabilize the Custodian here and so will be joining us" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris <C - Kechzo> "An illegal salvage operation? You think they found this underground section before we did and took advantage of it?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"According to their testimony Sir, they have identified an alternate means of entering the Sphere from outside and have been frequenting it since the rediscovery" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris <C - Kechzo> "Interesting. I'll see what they have to say for themselves when they get here. You said you don't think they're dangerous?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"They do not give that impression, no. When we first encountered them they instinctively hid and then chose to open dialogue by throwing themselves to the floor and surrendering to us. Granted this - Kayleigh@crystyl:- could be a rouse by a highly skilled foe, but their very stature would make it illogical to attempt anything untoward" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris <C - Kechzo> "I'll have Security on alert just in case, but we'll try to keep out of the way so we don’t intimidate them into causing trouble. We'll see you back at camp, then." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Understood Sir, we can provide a full debrief then" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris <C - Kechzo> "Thanks for the heads-up, Cadet." — Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | A day after finding the Sydarrimyr, Kayleigh is in the camp while Lycas and T'Mer, along with the Coalition computer scientists, work with some of their new friends inside the Custodian - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - facility. A few Sydarrimyr have remained at the camp as well, sharing what they know about the local environment with the scientists, and can be seen scuttling around and chatting away Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | As Kayleigh spends her free time, she sees Mariel walking up to her Kayleigh@crystyl idly watches from her spot perched on a rock where she focuses mainly on updating her logs from the expedition. Glancing across, "Hello Mariel" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Hey Kay! I found the answer to the beetle question! Come have a look!" she pauses as she sees Kayleigh updating logs, "If...you're not in the middle of anything important, of course." Kayleigh@crystyl folds her work away, "Nothing that requires immediate attention. Let us review your discovery" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris smiles and leads the way, "It's been a fun little adventure down here, hasn't it?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"It has certainly exceeded expectations with the unusual turns it has taken" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Exactly like a proper Starfleet mission! Or at least, what I gather they're like from the reports of more famous ones we've read for class." Kayleigh@crystyl:"I agree that this bears the hallmarks of those more memorable missions, even if not the actual majority" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris nods, "And you talked to the Sydarrimyr like a proper Starfleet negotiator! You'd make a good captain one day I think!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"That is generous praise, but they were not exactly a difficult group to reason with" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"It's a good start! We all have to start somewhere, after all!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"And I am very grateful for being given the opportunity here. When we return I plan to request an accomodation to continue following the talks with the Sydarrimyr, even if from a distance. I believe- Kayleigh@crystyl:- it would be... compelling, to see how things evolve from that first encounter now" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"And I'm sure they'll be happy to have you there, with your success interacting with them so far," she smiles. "And speaking of Sydarrimyr..." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris comes to s stop not far outside of the camp, where a pair of Sydarrimyr can be seen, feeding a group of beetles, some which are crawling on the ground, while others are taking flight for short - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - distances, buzzing from one mushroom or rock to another Kayleigh@crystyl:"As always, the logical explanation is proven to be accurate; they appeared relatively domesticated because they were" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Exactly! Well, I wouldn't call them domesticated, they're more like birds in populated parts of Earth. They're not really pets and still live in the wild, but they've grown used to the presence of - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- people. So you were right!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Precisely why I used the term relatively domesticated" she watches the Sydarrimyr, "You appear to have an affinity for these creatures" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | One of the Sydarrimyr turns and nods to Kayleigh, "They're similar to species we had back on our home. Saved some on ships when we fled the Horde. Still common pets, especially for young ones." Kayleigh@crystyl:"That makes sense. Perhaps in time - should our planned negotiations come to fruition - you may find a means to re-establish that colony with a controlled breeding programme of this species" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "We hope so!" The other Sydarrimyr turns to him and chitters something. He chitters something back, before turning to Kayleigh and speaking understandably once again, "You...the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - one who talked to us in the tunnels, yes?" Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "Yes, I conducted that opening conversation on behalf of our team" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "Thank you! You make good deal. Like an Aldamyn." Kayleigh@crystyl:"I remind you that we have only proposed an idea at this point, nothing will come of it until we progress from here and can then begin the process to involve the right people. Aldamyn... I am not - Kayleigh@crystyl:- familiar with that name" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "Aldamyn are our merchants. This is their language we speak. Well, not their original language. That we don't know. But they make this language for trade. Easy to learn, easy to - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - understand, yes? Made from common elements of other languages, very fast for translator technology to pick up!" Kayleigh@crystyl:"That would certainly explain the lack of difficulty in our initial encounter. What became of these Aldamyn - they were the ones who instructed you to dismantle your civilization and disperse, yes?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "Yes, they were. Some of them are still with us, managing business, making deals, doing what they do best. But we aren't as great as we once were. Business not as good. Many set - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:- out on their own. A few became independant traders. But we hear their biggest fleet disappeared. Rumours say Diteans got them." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Sounds very unfortunate, but if some remain with you then I am certain they will do well by your people should we manage to progress the talks here" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Sydarrimyr: "We hope so! We will ask them to come for talks here. They are good at this, yes." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Then I shall look forward to meeting them for the first time as well" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | As they speak, Kayleigh notices the distinct (and tall) figure of T'Mer in the distance heading back towards the camp, and soon Lycas comes into view as well Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"Looks like the others are back!" Kayleigh@crystyl nods, "Well, do excuse us. It was most insightful to speak with you but duty calls and so we should leave you to enjoy your beetles" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | The two Sydarrimyr wave and turn back to the beetles. The two cadets head back towards camp as well, catching up with Lycas and T'Mer halfway Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "Enjoying the environment, Cadets?" Kayleigh@crystyl:"Gaining further insight into our Sydarrimyr guests..." she glances briefly towards Mariel, "...and resolving unanswered queries from early in the expedition" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris:"The beetles!" she adds cheerily. "They were the ones feeding them, which is why the beetles weren't afraid of us." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas nods, "I see. You will be pleased to hear that the Sydarrimyr have been very cooperative in working with us on the Custodian as well." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Were you able to diagnose the problems with it?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "As we suspected, the Sydarrimyr were the ones who disconnected it from the rest of the Sphere systems to preserve the secrecy of their operations. They have already restored contact - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - between the AI and the Superintendent facility." Kayleigh@crystyl:"That is indeed good news then. What will be our next step now?" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas: "As there is no danger within the Custodian facility, it would be logical to move the main base camp within to take advantage of the facility's walls and power sources. I suspect the - Mariel Tanglao@anncaris - camp here will still be maintained as a smaller forward camp for field researchers. We will help the Long Island team with the move and once all is settled, then we shall depart." Kayleigh@crystyl:"Understood Sir" Mariel Tanglao@anncaris | Lycas looks to Mariel: "We should have some more time for research on the wildlife while we help with the move as well." Mariel Tanglao@anncaris smiles, "Thank you, sir."