NationStates Jolt Archive

Broadcast hail on all frequencies:"Mayday Mayday! This is the PHX Discovery to any and all ships in range, we have multiple hull breaches and are venting atmosphere, our engines and environmental controls are offline, intertial dampeners and artifcial gravity systems are fluctuating... half the crew is dead and we are on the verge of a warp core breach!! We fear launching escape pods will further destabilize the warp core, we need help!!! Please respond!! Is anyone receiving this? Damn it! I repeat this is the PHX Discovery calling any ship in range..."


The PHX Discovery, an Ericson Class (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Ericson_Class_Science_Vessel) Science Vessel, was on an exploration and survey mission, when it encountered a sub-space anomaly. While traveling at warp, the anomaly(which was un-detectable while the ship traveled at warp speed) pushed the ship out of subspace and caused it to collide with spacial debris and oort cloud objects at near light speed. The damage was severe and the ship is now adrift in space space... the anomaly seems to be massive, as automatic computer scans conducted after the ship was dropped out of warp, and before impact with debris tore off the sensor module, indicates it stretches in every direction for at least a 1/2 light-year radius. The nearest Phoenix Fleet ship is at least 3 days away at maximum warp and the hull is begining to buckle. How long can the crew last? Is there no hope for the doomed??

Essence traversed the nearby system comprising of dead worlds and a dying sun. The vessel itself was a Wraith Class Cruiser, just under seven hundred meters in length and bearing a fearsome arsenal, it was merely the lead ship of a patrol of four Wraith's moving outside the most farflung system in the Nagorii borders.

Ke'ees moved his fingers over the holographic display. His mind was within the computer system when the message was received. Viewing it briefly, he spoke mentally to the captain.

"Captain, we have a message. I am currently deciphering it, however I believe it to be a distress signal as it is being broadcast across all frequencies. Orders, Sir?"

Captain Les've listened to the telepathic message and spoke his orders aloud.

"Locate the source of the transmission and set a course for it. Decipher the language as fast as possible, it may be a warning. Inform the other ships of the change of course."

Various crewmen intoned "Yes, Captain" in unison and began moving their hands over the holographic displays. Les've brought up the holographic display and watched as the patrol fleet changed course.

"We should be there within the hour, Sir." The voice rang in the vaults of his mind.

The smell of sulfur, melted ploymer, burnt skin and human blood loomed in the smoky air and the ship seemed to moan in pain as the hull collapsed, section by section. Although in most places emergency bulkheads were holding in place, there were gaps in the outer hull and some of the bridge windows were penetrated, so oxygen was rapidly rushing out of the ship, counteracting the weak emergency thurster puffs that were trying to halt the ships spin. The ships chief engineer climbed up a ladder and finnaly arrived in the engine room, and immediately picked up a fire esxtingusher and began putting out sparking consoles and flaming component. Just as he started to pull a fallen comrade away from a smoking collant hose, the ship emitted a loud groan, punctuated by sparking and finnaly a minor explosion which rocked the ship. Warning sirens sounded and lights flashed but it was clear by the multi-colored fluid spewing from conduits, the smoking equipment and the sudden loss of gravitythat the ship was in trouble. The engineer floated himself into the nearby mess hall which doubled as a trauma room, and saw a horrible sight. Blood was floating everywhere, as were both dead and dying crewman hovering over the tables. Medics werre franticly trying to save who they could, but emergency medical kits were being exhausted and sick bay was unaccessable from this area. When the last of the coauglant agent SIT-15, ran out, the medics began to rip off thier uniforms and apply tourniquets to stop bleeding, a practice which hadn't been used for over 100 years but luckily was still taught. It was over 90 degrees F and rising in the cramped mess hall, and since the environmental controls were offline, it would get much hotter, so the medics were glad they had a good reason to rip thier uniforms even if they weren't using them for bandages. (Intentional destruction of a uniform would usually get them a 12 hour stay in the brig and/or 3 days of extra duty)
Although the shuttle bay door was damaged and no shuttle could be launched, one of the ensigns had the idea to refil emergency oxgen bottles from the shuttles' life-support systems. While he was there, the automatic subspace warning reciver began to beep. He looked over at the display and jumped up in exictment, banging his head. He ran out of the shuttle to alert the crew help was on its way, but when he exited the shuttle, he was not ready for the low-gravity and again hit his head on adocking clamp, knocking himself out....

The entourage of Wraith Class Cruisers came within fifteen kilometers of the stricken vessel and stopped.

"Bridge, how goes the translation of the alien language?" The Captain spoke aloud to the bridge crew, all of whom were diving within the Hive Mind Complex.

After a brief pause the mental response of the communications officer resounded in his mind. "We are at approximately 87%, Sir. I am of the opinion that, judging from the structure of the language, it is enough to communicate effectively."

Speaking openly once more, the Captain congratulated the crewman on his work. "Attempt to open a channel to the vessel and ready the fighters for a bording action."

"Yes, Sir." Another mental reply, the acknowledgement of several of the bridge crew.

Captain Les've was in something of a state of shock. Here, now, in their not-so-splendid glory, was an alien space craft. An afterthought occured to him.

"Scan their ship, 75%, I want to know who they are, where they come from and what their ship is, or was, capable of." There was a mixture of curiosity and wariness to his voice.

Once again a chorus of 'Yes, Sir' filled the vaults of his mind.


The NNS Essence began hailing the PHX Discovery.

The computer took a few seconds to interpret the incoming signal, but once it did, the ranking officer responded:
"This is Commander Scott Kabros, Cheif Engine..,(somone behind him whispers in his ear) well I guess... *ahem* Commanding officer, of the PHX Discovery, we have many wounded and are in need of repair, however we must warn you, if you intend to dock we suggest you accelerate towards us, and then take your engines offline, and travel only using your inertia once within 5km. We can not get clear readings since our sensors have been damaged but I suspect there are pockets of metreon gas surrounding the ship. This is a highly unstable substance and is most likely directly realted to the sub-space distortion which disabled us. If you use sub-light engines close to us, you may ignite the warp plasma that has intermixed with the gas and tear a hole in sub-space! Our magnetic docking system is fully functional and we are eagerly awaitng any help you can send."
The transmission was paused.

"Ensign, what can you tell me about the alien" Kabros asked a sensors operator, who was using a remote console on the wall near the stove to operate her station.

"Nothing other than I can see at least 4 ships from the window, sensors are not even giving me a basic radar readout..."

The commander grunted and then turned to a crewman
"Specialist! Report to the starboard docking hub and escort whoever comes through back to this deck" he ordered

OOC: Your scans will find three functioning but inactive disruptors, the fourth was ripped off be debris. The ship was carrying 100 Anti-Matter, 2 Quantum and 30 Advanced Photon torpedos. There are only 84 anti-matter and 23 Advanced Photon torpedos left since the entire rear torbedo array was vaporized during an engine overload. The foward torpedo tubes are loaded with fully 5 functional probes and there are 3 more in a cargo area. The shuttle bay has six, S-6 Shuttlecraft in the bay, but the shuttle bay doors have been crushed, sealing them in By Phoenix Fleet standards this vessel is very lightly armed although its armor is considered decent. The ship has hul breaches on every deck and is venting atmosphere and warp plasma.

"This is Commander Scott Kabros, Cheif Engine.., well I guess... *ahem* Commanding officer, of the PHX Discovery. We have many wounded and are -Damaged Information- warn you, if you intend to dock we suggest you accelerate towards us, and then -Damaged Information- using your inertia once within 5km. We can not get clear readings since our sensors have been damaged but I suspect there are pockets of -Damaged Information- surrounding the ship. This is a highly unstable substance and is most likely directly related to the sub-space distortion which disabled us. If you use -Damaged Information- magnetic docking system is fully functional and we are eagerly awaitng any help you can send."

"This is the best you can do with the message, Ke'ees?" Captain Les've frowned briefly, his concern causing his gills to flap momentarily.

A mental reply came to him, "I am afraid so, Captain. Unfortunately the damage to their ship is extensive and it would appear their communications system, amongst others, is failing. If I might make a suggestion, Sir?"

Speaking aloud as always, the Captain gave the order to speak freely.

"It would be most advisable to act whilst we are still in communication with them, Sir. Once communications are broken, any form of operation will become immensely difficult." Ke'ees presence remained near the Captain's mind.

"Very well. How comes the scan on the alien vessel?"

Vor'os, sensor array officer, moved his fingers across the holographic pad before him. The holographics before the Captain reconstructed the alien vessel to how it was estimated to look, while providing a detailed list of systems, both active and inactive, as well as current life signs. After a moment of reading and contemplation, Les've nodded to himself.

"Scan the area for whatever the communication mentioned. If there are any anomolies, attempt to plot a clear course to the ship. In the mean time, launch the fighters, but keep the fleet at this distance. Update me once you have your findings."

A chorus of 'Yes, Sir' filled the Captain's mind.

Les've activated his holographic panel and entered the computer system. Mentally he began to compose a message to the alien vessel.


Transmission to PHX Discovery from NNS Essence

We have begun scanning the area in an attempt to discover a clear route to your vessel. Please have patience, Commander Kabros, I shall keep you updated on our progress.

Holographics displayed the course, large patches of gas coloured in luminous red, so as to make them prominent. Captain Les've rotated the holographic, viewing it from various angles. Even as he did so an explosion appeared on the holographics.

"Vor'os, report on the alien ship." He spoke more loudly, harsher than he intended. Everyones' nerves were at breaking point, never before had the Nagorii encountered aliens.

"A minor explosion, Sir. It would appear that they have another hull breach though. Scans indicate they do not have much longer, Captain." Vor'os continued to move his fingers over the holographic pad before him.

"Very well, inform the Red Star to begin an approach toward the vehicle using the identified course. Order a wing of fighters to accompany it and keep monitoring for any changes in the alien vessel. Do we know how many people are still alive aboard?"


The Red Star Phoenix Class Frigate began to creep forward, limited to ten percent of its' engines for fear of igniting the pockets of gas. Captain Kii're viewed the holographic display showing the course he was to take. Flanking his ship were ten fighters deployed from the Essence, each one keeping perfect pace with his ship. Only another four kilometers until he reached the ruined vessel and his orders were clear: Rescue all survivors, procure any loose technologies and download information from their computers.

"Captain, scans suggest that the vessels air supply is primarily nitrogen based, 79%, however there is also oxygen and hydrogen in the air."

"What is the level of oxygen?" Kii're, unlike Les've, spoke mentally through the Hive Mind Complex to his Scanner Officer.

"Approximately 20%, Sir. Hydrogen is less than a percent. What are your orders, Sir?" The officer replied through the HMC.

Kii're frowned. "Would it be possible to breathe in their atmosphere through gills?"

"We believe so, Sir." Kii'ln, chief science officer, spoke aloud from his own position.

"Very well, tell the team that they will need to breathe through their gills. Send a message to Captain Les've telling him of our findings, no doubt he will need to inform the aliens of this problem."


Les've cursed as the information was relayed to his mind.

"Send a message to the aliens. Determine whether they have any form of artificial breathing aparatus. Inform them of our atmosphere, who knows, they may well be able to breathe perfectly well."


Transmission to PHX Discovery from NNS Essence

The Red Star is currently en route to your position and should take another nine minutes. We have discovered a potential problem, however. While we can breathe in your atmosphere to an acceptable level, we are unsure whether your physiology will be suited to the composition of our atmosphere.

Oxygen: 48%
Hydrogen: 31%
Nitrogen: 15%
Neon: 2%
Krypton: 2%
Carbon Dioxide: 1%
Mixed Others: 1%

If you are able to breathe under these conditions, please inform us, otherwise you will require artificial breathing aparatus.

It has been noted that your hull has further ruptured. Our fervent hope is that your ship will hold together for as long as it takes to evacuate your vessel. Kindly begin moving your crew to an area where the Red Star can dock with you.

"The CO2 level may be a little high, but I think we can handle it, the injured persons may require at least filitration masks, even better 100% oxygen" The chief medical officer, Dr. Sheatty answered.

Just as she sent the message, the comm-panel sparked suddenly, the flickering lights exploded sending shattered glass everwhere! All over the ship, consoles were sparking, equipment was melting. Obviously the main computer had overheated and shorted out. The engineering section was most likely over 300 degrees F now, with all the warp plasma leaks, fires and short-circuits it was amazing it lasted that long. Every electronic system on the ship was disabled in a flash, an electromagnetic pluse eminating from the main computer when it was destroyed. It shorted out every device using an electrical circuit, including handheld devices. Luckily the metallic hull kept the EMP within the ship and would most likely not affect the rescuers, however the magnetic locks were electro-magnets and would now be offline. Also all emergency forcefields went down, causing violent decompressions wherever the doors had not been able to completely seal due to structural damage.
The chief engineer-turned commander snapped a chemical-light stick and held it over his head. In a forcefull voice he ordered everyone to calm down and tol them that help was on the way. A nearby Ensign bit his lip and mumbled
"I just hope they get here in time"
His comment was punctuated by a stiff shake as the last of decompressions ran thier course. Luckily almost everyone was in the mess hall by now, and protected from the vaccum of space by 30 inches of duranium, but they would now leave that saftey and move along the hallway, leading to the nearest docking port, the low gravity, although clumsy, made moving the bodies of the wounded easier.

Kii're redd the message that they would be capable of breathing in their atmosphere. As he gazed at the holographic display, his eyes went wide as entire sections of the ship underwent decompression and were crushed into oblivion.

"Status report on the alien vessel." The mental pulse went to the scanning officer.

"It appears their primary systems are all offline. Lifesupport running on their back up. I can only presume that they were using some form of electronic safe-guards to prevent decompression. Once they failed, areas were destroyed."

"Very well. Another three minu- Wait if their electronics have failed, will they be able to operate their dock?" The Captain's question was answered by silence.

"Dammit. It appears we are going to have to cut through their door once we dock with them. Inform the evacuation crew. Do we have any droids?"

The technologies officer spoke up, "Afraid not, Sir."

Kii're nodded. "Very well, send down some welding torches then seal off the room in the event of decompression. Ready the medical facility."

A chorus of 'Yes, Sir' filled the bridge. Two minutes.

Specialist Jenkins peered out of the small window of the inner docking door, and sighted the alien ships closing.
"There coming! Get ready! he shouted excitedly to the group of crewmen moving toward the docking area.

"Specialist! get over here and help me move this door so we can get the wounded through an Ensign ordered as he motioned to a damaged hatch that was partially blocking the hallway.
They grunted and groaned as they tried to move it, finnaly the specialist used a piece of debris as a lever and the door floated up out of the way.

The crew looked out the windows towards the incoming ships and crossed thier fingers, hoping all would go well.

Holographics showed the Red Star and its' fighter escort closing with the ship. From somewhere, a woman's voice began to speak out. Distance from object, two hundred meters.

Crew finished gathering in the docking chamber and the door was sealed shut. Those within awaited the order to open the hatch and begin welding through the other door. Distance from object, one hundred meters.

Cor'le viewed several of the aliens peering through the windows. It was unfortunate that he allowed himself to become distracted and drift too close to a pocket of gas. Distance from object, fifty meters.

Les've watched the operation on holographics with a smile. Frowning, he watched as one of the fighters deviated from its' course. His face swiftly turned to horror as the fighter made contact with a pocket of gas. Distance from object, ten meters.

The voice rang out aboard the Red Star coupled with a loud rumbling sound unfelt by the crew. Contact with ship made, magnetic links engaged.

Cheers went up from the bridge coupled with sighs of relief. This sound was quickly punctured by an explosion from outside the Red Star, followed by another as the ignited gas pocket caused the one nearest it to ignite. Both ships felt the effects as the gas ignited and began to rend apart the real space about them.

The celebration was cut short when the shock wave hit, throwing the crew against the bulkheads and shaking the entire hull. A trail of warp plasma ignited, it led back to the ship and proceeded to destroy the the entire engineering section, massive decompressions followed and the emergency warp core sheath, which was made of solid duranium, began to melt. Surprisingly the familiar computer voice emitted a high pitched alarm and then a voice message:
"Danger! Warp Core Breach in progress, two minutes nineteen seconds until containment failure, all hands abandon ship"
Some of the crew were shocked to hear a working computer voice, but the chief engineer knew there was a rudimentary backup alert system, shielded from EMP and other radiation designed to warn the crew of imminent danger such as carbon monoxide poisoning or a hull breach.

"No shit"one of the crewmen commented as he started beating his fist on the door leading to the docking bay. The mag lock held and it was only a matter of equalizing the pressure in airlock and getting the hell out of there.

"Everyone step back and wait for them to confirm the seal and open the door!" A Lieutenant barked.

Unbeknownst to the men and women on board, the PHX Discovery was now drifting towards a subspace rift and would be crushed if they did not escape in time....

*dramatic music*

"Can't you go any faster?" The officer in charge of the operation was almost frantic as more explosions rang out.

Before him, two thickly-clad men were attempted to weld through the door of the other ship. Currently the task was proving immensely difficult, after all, what good is a ship that can be welded through with ease?

"Sir, we are going to have to try something else." Both men moved away, clearly struggling with the small welding kit.

"Well I am welcome to any damnable suggestions!" His outburst was met with silence. Frowning, he began to collect his thoughts. After perhaps two minutes and another violent explosion, an idea came to him with brutal clarity.

Tre'ls frowned as the officers' jaw dropped and he began advancing upon him. As the engineering officer, it was perhaps inevitable that responsibility would fall to him, such tasks usually did.

"Tre'ls, do we have any of those new 'droids aboard?" His face was animated and his eyes aglow with hope born of desperation.

"Uh... I think so, Sir, but wh-"

"Go and find it, then bring it here. I have an idea." Turning away, the officer entered the system and dived into whatever section of the HMC he wanted.

Tre'ls left the room and returned six minutes later with an enormous droid in tow. The droid itself stood just under fifteen foot in height and hovered another foot above the ground. There was no visible method of propulsion, with the body seemingly a misshapen pear, atop which, craned outward, was a wide and flat head. On one side sat an impressive device.

The officer, Xam'ce, approached the droid. "'droid, use your graviton beam to cut through the door of that ship. Once you have completed that task, enter the room and look for alien life forms. If you can confirm the presence of life, move deeper into the ship and access their computer system. Relay as much data as possible, beginning with information as to who they are, where they come from and what they are capable of."

"Parameters confirmed." Almost instantly a beam of light struck the door of the alien vessel and begin to rip a path through it.

"Back up!!!!" a crewman shouted as melting fragments from the air-lock door sprayed from the crack and floated ominously.

Specialist Jenkins picked up a fire extingusider and sprayed the blobs of molten metal so they wouldn't burn anyone.
"You idiot! spraying that extinguisher is just going to eat up oxygen!! an Ensign yelled.

"Calm down sir, they are already through half the door Jenkins replied.

Kabros moved toward the door and squinted through the flashing cutting beam to try to get a good look at his rescuers. All could see was some type of machine.
I just hope they get through quick", he whispered to himself

As the beam pulsed against the door, the metal was twisted and fractured. Twenty seconds had passed and the droid was more than half way through its' work. During its' work, the droid was diving into the computer system and downloading the aliens language.

A robotic voice passed into the next room. "Stand clear, xenforms."

Seemingly after an age, the door was totally sliced through and fell inward into the alien vessel. Through the enormous hole the droid hovered inside. "Please move onto the Red Star."

Without further word the droid hovered into the adjoining room. Now the Nagorii were crowding around the door attempting to catch a glimpse of the alien life forms.

The crew hustled towards the door, pulling the wounded along with them, a few held briefcase like containers at thier sides. Kabros counted the crew as they passed him andwhen the last crewman past him he froze.
"We are missing one" he shouted.
Just as he finsihed his sentance, Kabros sighed in relief as he saw an Ensign come zipping down the hall towards him.
Where the hell were you Ensign?" The Commander asked.

Sorry sir, I hit my head and was unconcouis for a while, but the alarms woke me up, lets get out of here!" he replied

After you" Kabros said before taking one last look down the corridor.

The ship rumbled almost as if it was giving the Commander permission to leave. Kabros knew it was time to go, so he turned and headed for the doorway.




OOC: the computers are all fried except for the warning system which has only about 512MB of data on it... although since it has audio warning messages you might have been able to get language info from it.

As the last of the aliens borded, the operational officer sent a telepathic message to the communications officer.

"All aliens are now aboard, the droid has yet to return." A wordless acknowledgement was received.


"Commander, all aliens aboard, however the droid has not returned. Orders, Sir?" The communications officer was within the system.

"Can any contact be made with the droid?" Kii're asked through the HMC. A moment of silence passed before he received a negative reply. Nothing could be done about it, the loss was worth the successful discovery of alien life.

"Very well, close the hold and enter the ship. Relay a message to Essence and return to the convoy, half engines. Begin questionning of the aliens purpose in this region and see if any of them require medical attention."

The communications officer replied, "Yes, Sir." and swiftly begin relaying the orders throughout the ship.


The Red Star broke free of the Discovery and moved toward the rest of the fleet. It was not until it was almost at the remainder of the fleet that the Discovery finally underwent total decompression and caused the detonation of the power core and various armaments, in turn igniting several gas pockets. The display flickered away harmlessly behind the Red Star as it rejoined the fleet.

Kabros took one last look at the disintegrating ship, and wiped a tear from his eye. He had served for over 10 years on that ship, and lost many friends today. He took a deep breath and stood up straight, and then turned to face his rescuers.

"Thank you for having us aboard your ship, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts" he said as he proceeded to shake each person's hand.
"Some of my personnel have wounds that need to be attended to, if you show us to an area where my medics can spread out and do their work, I think we can keep them all alive until our ships get here." he said, getting down to business


OOC: For quick translations there is a computer system, but that was destroyed, but luckily my people also use "translator microbes" so they can speak your language and understand it after hearing a bit of it, the more they hear it the better they will be at understanding and speaking it of course, and they need to hear a few full sentences before the microbes kick in.

After the alien crew had been taken to the medical area to allow them to carry out various medical procedures, Commander Kiire appeared. Looking about at the aliens, he mused at their strange appearance. Not entirely unlike his own, though definately more unusual. The commander wore what appeared to be a very tight fitting one-piece suit of gray cloth, overwhich was draped a large and thick robe of deep crimson. About Kii're's neck was what appeared to be a metal collar.

"Vliith meaeres shloawoahal theyln myeaous-" As he spoke in his strangely musical voice, forming letters that were seemingly impossible, the device about his throat began to speak in the language of the aliens, seemingly harsh by comparison and, while sounding almost identical to Kii're's own voice, had a metallic tone.

<<Whom amongst your people is the commanding officer of your vessel?>>

The Commander straigtened up and spoke to the alien.

"I am Commander Kabros, Senior surviving officer of the Phoenix Fleet Science Vessel Discovery, may she rest in peace. On behalf of myself and the rest of my crew, I would like to thank you personally for saving us from certain death. I know it is not much but please accept this bottle of Red Fox Ale from my crew as a token of thanks." Kabros said as he motioned to a crewman, who snapped open a container, and presented the glass bottle, filled with clear, red liquid, to the alien.

"It is one of the finest samples from our planet, and I think you will find it to be quite palatable" The Commander said, smiling.





http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/grunt74/redale.jpg
Red Fox Ale: Year 2491
Serving size: 1 shot
Alcohol: 46% by volume
Calories: 70
Carbohydrates: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 400ppm :p

Kii're looked at the device in his hand skeptically, curiously.

His voice carried a certain unsurity. "Thank you for your... generous gift. Kindly come with me, Commander Kabros, we have some questions that we wish to ask."

As Kii're turned, his red robes made an elegant motion.


It seemed as though there were no corners whatsoever to this vessel, for the corridors were ovular in nature, as were the doors. Even the rooms seemed more like enormous, distorted spheres. There were no visible electronics of any kind in the corridors or rooms that Kabros passed through, however several of the Nagorii were sitting on unusual chairs, their eyes glazed and their fingers moving as though typing. While the majority of the ship was highly polished metal that carried a blue tone, some parts were distinctly blue or green in colouring.

After some time they reached a room with merely a bed that was at a slight decline at the feet and a strange half spherical device mounted to the wall.

"Kindly lie upon the bed, Commander Kabros." Kii're observed the alien cautiously.

Kabros turned his head and raised an eyebrow...
"That's ok, I'm not wounded or anything... I'll stand if you don't mind..."
He let his tounge glide over one of his back teeth, in a split second he could activate a switch which would release a nanovirus which would liquify his nerve endings instantly. He weighed his duty with his personal feeling... to survive this disaster only to commit suicide... what a fate! He knew though, being a Commander, and former chief engineer he had access to a number of secrets and could not allow himself to be comprimised. His muscles tightened and he looked at the aliens and then to the "bed" and then back to the aliens, but hee tried to remain calm and remeber his training.

Kii're frowned, looking displeased. "We need to check your biology. There are a number of concerns as to whether you carry anything harmful. Our initial reports show you are 'mammals'..?" He trailed off, clearly unsure as to what a mammal was.

"The device at the end wall will examine your body for bacteria & disease. Now kindly lie down, or we shall have to quarantine this vessel." Kii're remained standing over Kabros, his frame a good half foot above. Patiently, he gestured to the bed.

Kabros reluctantly went over to the bed and sat down...

"Can't you just...like... scan me?" he asked hoping they had something similar to the Phoenix Fleet's hand-held medical scanners
"Or how about a blood sample, I really don't like to lay down... I have a bad back you know.... old holodeck injury" he fibbed.

Kii're ignored the mild protests of the alien. As soon as the commander lay upon the bed, his eyes glazed and his fingers began to move as though typing. The half-orb at the far well detatched itself, a green circle lighting up as it did so. Humming very gently as it moved, the device travelled the length of Kabros several times.

During the inspection of Kabros, other Nagorii entered the room and began discussing him amongst themselves. Much talk was given to the appendix, which fascinated them. Primary amongst all other talk was the fact this alien was a mammal. Talk changed eventually to the possibilities of implanting a HMA Matrix into the alien to attempt to discover what lay within its' mind and how it thought.

All the while the various scientists spoke, the odd device hovered over Kabros.

Kabros had been gone for several minutes and the crew began to speculateon his dispostion...
"Where did they take him?" a crewman wondered aloud.
"Relax they are probably wining and dining him, wnderful to meet your species blah blah blah" one of the petty officers groaned.
"I don't know.. why did they take him alone..." a young ensign worrried
"And what's taking so long?" another crewmen chimed




OOC: in my species "Homo Phoenix Sapiens" the appendix is used to help digest certain foods which are unique to our homeworld ;)

A dozen Nagorii entered the bay where the other members of race PX, as it had been called, were being kept. Possibly the largest Nagorii seen so far, standing just below seven foot and wearing robes of platinum, stood forth. About his neck was a similar collar to the one the commander had borne before.

Translation was almost instantaneous. "Greetings, aliens. I am Fe'vir'em, of the Sho'vo'vak. That we may better provide you with comfort, we invite each of you two accompany us to another area of the ship that will be yours to treat as you wish. Furthermore, we offer each of you a chance to write up your dietary needs and we shall attempt to fabricate meals for you."

What exactly the Sho'vo'vak were was left open. As yet, no member of the Nagorii seemed to carry any sort of weapon or wear any form of armour. Each stood atleast an inch above the tallest of the Phoenix Militian people.

Fe'vir'em turned abruptly and walked from the room, the remaining Nagorii seemingly content to wait for the aliens to follow him prior to leaving.

The crew cautiously followed, mumbling to eachother and keeping close.
They were hungry though so they started writing up what they wanted to eat. A senior crewman presented Fe'vir'em with a packet of emergency rations and said "These will do fine, if you can make us something simmilar to eat" , perfectly in the alien language, as the microbes already adjusted.

One of the science officers actually wrote up the exact chemical compositon for the components of her favorite dish, a Chicken Caesar Salad.

"So.. what did you do with our commander?" A young engineer blurted out to the dismay of his superiors.

(OOC: I don't have all that much in the way of free time at the moment and I also run LifeWyze BioTech. I'm juggling my time between the two of these. Hopefully I will get a post up today, sorry.)

Fe'vir'em turned about, causing his golden robes to shimmer in the light. "Your Commanding Officer is good and well, enjoying a private audience with our Commander, Kii're." He offered the aliens a good natured smile. Without further word he turned about and continued his strides down the corridor.

After perhaps half an hour of walking, they came to a spacious room with odd divan-like chairs spaced around five meters apart from one another. There were no tables evident.

"Kindly take a seat along the central row." As if they would be unable to count the rows, he gestured to a specific set.

Hesitantly the crew did as they were bid. They were rewarded as a large conveyor belt-like device extended from the wall and stretched down the row. A hole in the wall appeared, opening into a circle, and food began to come from within the hole, accompanied by glasses of fresh water.

"Take whatever you wish from the table. If you are hungry after you have eaten, we can produce more." The Nagorii then pulled back to watch them eat with mild curiosity, as one might watch a hamster or dog eat.

The crew sampled the food and downed the water quickly. Although they had taken enough powdered rations to keep them from being hungry for the next several hours, the "real" food was too enticing to pass up, as they ate they whipsered amongst themselves.

"This must be a big ship, did anyone get a good look at it from the window?" a crewman asked
"Not me" muttered one of the petty officers
"Maybe its a small ship and they were just walking us around in circles." An ensign suggested.
"Just be quiet and eat" a lieutenant said sharply.



Meanwhile... in deep space:

"This is Fleet Captain Tempkin of Task Force 17 hailing Starbase 70, we are picking up a subspace distortion on long range sensors, not far from the last known position of the Discovery. Please advise, over"

"Task Force 17, proceed to investigate the distortion, and find out what happened to the PHX Discovery, maintain a distance of 300 kilometers away from any distortions. Starbase 70 out"

Task Force 17 consisted of a Nova Vrelck Class Cruiser, a pair of Spartan Class Cruisers, a Knight Class Destroyer, and the Original Gama Class Refit Frigate/Science Vessel, and was proceeding at warp 9.3 towards the last known position of the Discovery.

bump

Whilst they ate, the Nagorii about the room continued to merely watch with mild curiosity. None of them were armed, nor armoured. The feast continued.



As the orb did another pass of Kabros' body, something alerted Kii're. It seemed as though he had some sort of device within his mouth. A weapon? Curious, very curious.

Scan results began to fill the screen, showing biology in all forms. It would appear as though, with further exposure to this atmosphere, they would be unsuited to return to their own. Oxygen addiction. Strange. Their immune system was also less than adequate, though their muscle mass seemed far denser, their bones stronger. For such physical, brute strength they seemed to have little resistance to the Universe.

Further scans into the brain revealed a lack of any form of telekinetic talent. Whether this one was a mutant or if they all lacked such ability was speculation. Their senses seemed far duller, judging by the results of the mental scan. Only five senses? Strange.

"Well, Commander." Kii're's eyes refocused and he rose from the divan, the holographic projection vanished. "It seems you are virus free. Perhaps we could now discuss what it is your people were doing in our space?"

The Commander ran his fingers through his short hair and looked directly at Kii're.
"Well we didn't know it was your space to begin with, for one, you have no buoys or markers to indicate your borders, second, we had no idea this part of space was even occupied, our telescopes failed to penetrate the nebula you found us in. After 3 probes became bogged down in the outer edges of the nebula, my governemtn sent a manned expidetion. We were simply exploring this part of space to see what is here, and we came across this nebula, and encountered a sub-space distortion, some type of pulsating wave itype distorition, orign unknown, if I recall the computer readout correctly. The meteron gas coupled with this distortion is no doubt the reason our telescopes could not penetrate and our probes were lost. It is also the reason our ship became disabled and was hurtling towards your space. Our ship the Discovery is.... was a science vessel and was only equiped with defensive weaponry, and we had and have no hostile intentions toward you. When the rescue party arrives from my homeworld, they will no doubt be interested in establishing formal relations with your government, which could lead to trade of equipment, supplies, materials and information about this sector." he said in one exauhsting breath.

Kii're studied the Commander of the now non-existant vessel. It seemed to him that this mammal was worried, edgy. Evidently the technology of these creatures was utterly alien. That they could span such an enormous distance was confounding, however the concept of a ship bourne for science was amusing.

"Until now we had presumed that naught else with the ability to traverse the stars existed, thus we felt no need for any form of spacial markings. Evidently our previous presumption was incorrect." He paused.

"Would you care to explore this vessel, Commander?"

"Certainly... I would love a tour... One of our mission parameters is to seek out new life and new technology, after all. Oh and how are my crew doing by the way? Everything alright with them?"


Meanwhile, 317km from the subspace distortion:


"Take us in, 300 kilometers, as close as you can get." Captain Tempkin ordered

"I still can't read through this interference." one of the sensor operators said with a sigh.

All ahead full, bring us to the outer edge of the nebula. the Captain said with a worried look on his face

Once the ship reached 290km, an automatic alarm triggered.

"Sir we are getting a little close." the young helmsman said anxiously.

"All stop, this is as close as we are getting, picking up anything now?" Tempkin hopefully asked.

"No sir." the Senior Sensor Operator replied.

"Prepare a class 3 probe and launch it." ordered the first officer as the captain got up from his chair and walked closer to the main view screen, as if he would be able to spot the discovery with his naked eye when the advanced sensors could not.

"Probe away. Now receiving telemetry." a sensor operator reported

Captain, I'm picking up traces of an alloy, it is consistent with he hull of the discovery said the Senior Sensor Operator

Shit, we're too late... the first officer mumbled, this drew an angry stare from the Captian

Don't count your chickens... the Captian grimaced

Wait, I'm also picking up what looks like ion trails, at least 4 distinct vessels passed close to the debris field... less than 3 hours ago.. a sensor operator interjected.

"Plot their most likely course." Tempkin said with an odd smile and another glare towards his rookie first officer.

"Course plotted" the helmsman responded

"Engage at warp 7, keep scanners powered to maximum, shields up 50%, standby weapons.... just in case."

"Aye Sir." the helmsman ackknowledged as he took his vessel into the lead of the task force, the rest of the ships followed in close formation.

Kii're nodded.

"Your crew, from my most recent report, are eating in the dining center currently. There are no reports of distress or disturbance from them."

Turning swiftly, he led the Commander from the room. Awaiting him in the corridor was a white disc, three foot in diameter and one and a half foot in depth, lying dormantly on the floor. Lightly, Kii're mounted the disc, causing it to burst into life. At his touch, the device rose half a foot from the floor, blue light shimmering at the base, though absolutely silent.

"Transportational device." Kiire offered as way of explaination.

As the Nagorii commander spoke, the disc began to move forward at a leisurely pace; a pace at which Commander Kubros could easily keep with.



Kee'es sat at the helm of Essence in formal garb. Both sets of eyelids were closed against the light of the room, allowing him to meditate peacefully, thus strengthening his mind against the endless calling of the Hive Mind Complex.

"Commander, scanners have discovered a number of ships moving several times light speed on an intercept course. Data would suggest they are of the same species as the recently discovered xenoforms."

Looking at his information officer, Kee'es nodded.

"Order all ships to engage shielding and standby weapons in the event of confrontation, keep relaying information to homeworld, regardless of the situation and under no circumstances to perform any offensive gestures without provocation. Communications will fall to Commander Kii're during contact. Until such a time as we have determined their intentions, activate the Black Systems."

"Aye, Commander."

Evidence of the Essence vanished as the Black Systems were engaged.


(OOC: Just a question, what precisely is an ion trail? Nagorii ships use a Gravimetric Drive System the same as the Minbari, so I am unsure whether such a trail would be left. I'm happy to go with it for now, though.)

This is a lovely ship......... could I perhaps join my crew now? Kabros asked as he looked around aimlessly.



Meanwhile, as the Task Force closed on the vessels...

"This is Fleet Captain Tempkin of The Imperial Vanguard of The Phoenix Militia Task Force hailing unknown vessels..." he said over standard hailing frequencies

"Sir, the lead vessel has just disappeared from our scanners." an ensign said with shock in her voice after the Captain cut the transmission.

"What? They cloaked?" the astonished first officer said.

"Yes Sir..... should I emit a Tachyon burst and try to lock on to them?" The Senior Sensor Operator replied, although while looking to the Captain for the answer.

No... wait, relay a message to the rest of the Task Force, we will all begin a tachyon sweep in a synchronized pattern...have them spread out in a broad formation.... wedge omega. Prepare the Tachyon burst but do not activate until I give the order. Tempkin ordered.

Aye sir! The Communications Officer and Senior Sensor Operator replied in harmony.

Tactical, Increase power to the shields gradually to 100% and load the torpedo bays, do not power up phasers or disruptors just yet... no outward sign, keep the windows open too... the Captain said as he walked back to his chair and sat down.

Did your scans tell you anything interesting about the lead ship before we lost contact with it? the first officer inquired.

"I picked up a possible subspace transponder signal coming from the ship that cloaked, Phoenix Fleet protocols but it was very weak...perhaps the ships hull or power core was interfering" answered an ensign.

"Or they were blocking the signal..." the first officer suggested.

"I don't know, the lead ship, like the other three, didn't seem to have a warp drive, no nacelles, no detectable warp plasma.... would they even know how to intentionally block a subspace transmission... then again our scanners were only able to get a brief 'snapshot' of their systems before they cloaked, they may have it protected from our long-range scanners... they do have a cloaking device after all." the Senior Sensor Operator pondered.

"Open a channel, broadcast on all frequencies" Tempkin decisively ordered.

"Channel open" the Communications Officer quickly replied.

"Attention Unknown vessels...This is Captain Tempkin, commander of the Phoenix Fleet vessel 'PHX Legionnaire'. We are searching for survivors of one of our survey vessels, we believe that you recently passed near the location where the ship was lost, if you have any information on what happened to the ship and it's crew, we would very much like to know about it... Please respond." The Captain said in his most authoritative sounding voice.

[OOC: Luckily I only put "what looks like" so it can just be like the "wake" or a trail of gas your ships made as they moved through the thick nebular gases. An ion trail would be a sign (in the form of ionized gasses usually) of something like a plasma, ion or "electric" rocket or some other types of electric, nuclear or impulse drives.]

Kii're's eyes glazed over as Kabros spoke to him. After a brief moment, the Nagorii opened his eyes and nodded to Kabros.

"Your people have arrived for you. You shall accompany me to the bridge."


After several moments, the Nagorii commander reached the bridge and began to relay messages to the crew via the Hive Mind Complex, leaving Kabros very confused as to the silence of the command crew.

"Open communications. If possible, initiate holographics of the xenoform."

"Aye Commander."

The Nagorii vessel began to hail the PHX ship, seemingly ignoring the initial communication. All weapons were charged aboard the Nagorii vessels with no further sign of the command ship.

"Sir the remaining contacts have thier weapons charged and shields up." The SSO annouced with an alarmed tone in his voice

"Full alert! Raise shields to maximum! Keep disruptors on standby but charge phasers gradually to eighty percent" Tempkin quickly responded, while keeping his calm.

"Sir, I'm receiving a response. They are attemping to initiate holographic communications with us." The comm officer reported.

"Activate video and voice comm link only, on screen." The Captain ordered.
Captain Tempkin walked casually behind his chair and then turned to face the viewscreen and the camera. He checked his mini display quickly and then turned to address the aliens.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/grunt74/NS2/tempkin.png
"Greetings, I am Fleet Captain Tempkin of The Imperial Vanguard of The Phoenix Militia" he said very formally and then paused obviously to let the aliens translate and hopefully introduce themselves.

*bump*

^

OOC: Do you mind if I jump in on the action? :o

OOC: Do you mind if I jump in on the action? :o
um.. are you even in GII?

"Greetings, I am Fleet Captain Tempkin of The Imperial Vanguard of The Phoenix Militia"

Visible on the screen of the alien ship were Kii're and Captain Kabros.

"Greetings, Captain Tempkin. I am Commander Kii're of the Nagorii. I am curious as to why you have entered our space without the express permission of the Nagorii."

A mental report came into Kii're's head. "Sir, it seems as though they are using a form of energy-based weaponry. Currently we are unsure as to whether they have any kinetic force. Their shields also seem to be energy based, though we believe our weaponry superior. According to scanners their engine technology is immensely advanced."


Warnings came from the lead vessel of the Phoenix Militia fleet as the powerful scanners of the Nagorii ship went through the schematics with relative ease. Despite the sophistication of the scanning technology of the Nagorii, it seemed they had no method of concealing their scanning whatsoever, or else chose not to.

"We were not aware this is your space. Until just a few minutes ago, we were not even aware there was intelligent life in this part of the galaxy. We apologize if we have caused you alarm by crossing into your space but we were answering a distress call from one of our ships which was exploring the area. We feared it had been destroyed. I am glad to see you have Commander Kabros aboard, were you able to rescue any others from the crew?" Tempkin said.
The Captain signaled the comm officer who muted the voice for a moment


"Sir they are performing a deep scan on us." The Tactical officer alerted the rest of the bridge crew.

"That's alright let them take a look." The Captain said

"What have your scans shown?" The first officer asked, looking towards the sensor station.

"...armament is comparable to our own, decent armor, advanced secondary technology, but rudimentary engines.. much less advanced than warp drive ...I think... yes they appear to be basic gravimetric engines." A sensor officer reported

"Aside from their propulsion, I'd designate them all as Class 1 Vessels."the senior sensor officer clarified
The Captain nodded and then motioned for the comm officer to unmute the microphone.

Kii're continued to look with enormous lavender eyes at the form of Captain Tempkin.

"We do indeed have several members of your species. They shall be returned to your forthwith, if you are capable of providing transportation for them."

Kii're listened as he spoke, learning that the xenoforms were scanning their ship. After a moment of thought, he gave the order to allow the scan, knowing full well that knowledge of one ship did not neccessarily mean knowledge of them all. Initiate scans of all vessels in their fleet and continue to commune with the Essence, inform them they are not to decloak."

"No alarm caused, Captain Tempkin, and we were also unaware of any life forms inhabiting regions near us. In future we shall establish buoys about our bounderies.

"Would you care to collect your people now?"

"Yes, we have shuttlecraft standing by to ferry the survivors from your vessel to ours, or we can simply teleport them if you care to lower your shields... actually are scanners are unable to detect any of our people... where exactly are they?" Captain Tempkin asked, trying not to let Kii're know that he knew one of the ships was cloaked and probably still nearby.

With a subtle tap of a panel on the back of his chair, Tempkin cut all power to the phaser banks as a show of good faith. Taking his cue from the Captain, the First Officer sent a text message to the rear hangar deck, changing the flight that was preparing to launch from fighters to a squadron of shuttlecraft.

"Yes, we have shuttlecraft standing by to ferry the survivors from your vessel to ours, or we can simply teleport them if you care to lower your shields... actually are scanners are unable to detect any of our people... where exactly are they?"

"They are within the bowels of my ship." Kii're spoke. Teleportation, what a curious notion, and yet what a powerful weapon.

"We shall not be allowing this teleportation, however transport via shuttlecraft is very much acceptable."

Updates continued to flood the mind of Kii're. They have charged down their weaponry, Commander. Shielding is still up. They continue to scan. Orders?

Kii're set a mental pulse across the deck. Scan every inch of every ship. At the first sign of any weaponry being recharged, order fire at all enemy weapons ports. Tell the Essence to maneuver behind the enemy lines in the event of hostilities.

Kii're's orders were carried out dutifully as the Phoenix Militia vessel began to discharge shuttles.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/grunt74/NS2/nomadlaunch.jpg
Each Nomad Class Shuttle carried a pair of crewman and some medical supplies. Although equipped with four torpedo tubes each, no torpedos were carried on board any of the Nomads and the other weapons were offline. The shuttles launched in two groups of four from the top rear hangar deck and then turned under the Vreclk Class crusier. As they closed on the Nagorri vessels, the lead shuttlecraft sent out a transmission.
"This is Lieutenant Enicks of Nomad One requesting permission to dock." The flight leader said as he slowed his engines and then visually searched for a suitible docking port or hangar bay on his video display.

Meanwhile on the bridge of the PHX Legionnaire:

"I am receiving reports that the other vessels in the task force are being deep scanned as well." The First Officer reported.

"Let them take a look, they are probably just curious, besides we do the same when we encounter unknown vessels." The Captain assured his crew.

"What has the tachyon sweep told us?" The First Officer asked.

"The cloaked vessel appears to have a cloak which is not revealed by our Tachyon detection methods." One of the sensor operators answered.

"Or they simply moved away from our tachyon streams to avoid detection." The Senior Sensor Officer suggested

"Nomad Flight is in in range and preparing to dock." Another sensor officer interrupted.

"Alright on your toes people, Tempkin to Med Deck, standby to receive casualties" The Captain said as he sat himself down in his chair and stared intently at the view screen.

The portside doors opened aboard the Nagorii vessel, allowing the various transports to dock.

Commander Kii're, detecting energy emmissions from the alien vessels. There are no signs of it being harmful. Orders?

Kii're spoke through to the Phoenix Militia vessel, "We notice your vessels are giving out energy signals, might one inquire as to what you are doing and whether it is an act of violence?"

Kabros shifted uncomfortably at Kii're's words. How was this alien aware of what was going on? Not a single other creature spoke aloud.

*Bump*

"We notice your vessels are giving out energy signals, might one inquire as to what you are doing and whether it is an act of violence?"


Kabros rubbed his head and decided they must be using nano machines of some kind to communicate covertly with eachother or a central communications system.
He turned to Kii're and interjected:
"Excuse me, Sir, but if my people were commiting an act of violence, you'd know it."

Just as Kabros finished his remark, which he regretted almost before the words came out of his mouth, Tempkin appeared on screen.

"We have no hostile intentions, I assure you. What you are probably picking up is the weak radiation from our tachyon scanners. You see, when we first arrived, we observed a sensor anamoly, a visual distortion as well as contradictory sensor data. We also observed some sort of echo like that of a cloaked ship. Emission of tachyon particles is standard operating procedure when cloaking devices are suspected. Our tachyon scans did not however detect a cloaked vessel, so we will terminate the scans now if you like." The Captain said as he nodded to the sensor operator who deactivated the tachyon emitters and sent notice to the other vessels to do the same.

"Trust me, the radiation is too diluted to cause any problems, our own shuttles just passed through a wave of it just to get to you." he added as he watched on the split screen as the first group of shuttles docked.

"We shall accept your word that these emitions are harmless. Our report indicates the majority of your peoples are now aboard the transports, as such we shall be sending this one to the others.

"Having completed scans of your vessels, we have discerned that you use an advanced type of engine. We are curious as to whether such a device would be open to sale or exchange."

Tempkin punched up the sensor profile of the Nagorii vessel, and decided Kii're meant the warp engines, since their gravimetric engines appeared to be capable of respectable sub-light speeds.

"Ah, you must mean our warp drive. A simple warp drive system consists of a warp core, plasma conduits and warp coils. Warp engines need to be powered by source of high energy, you can use fusion reactors, matter-anti matter reactors, one species I know of actually uses artificial black holes as a power source! The warp coils need to be in nacelles like the PHX discovery, and the smaller vessel to my port side (referring to the Gama Class refit) or like my vessel, in integrated "wing" structures. Basically, the warp drive system generates a warp field to form a subspace bubble around the ship, distorting the local space time continuum and moving the ship at velocities that exceed the speed of light. It took us a few days to get here, and we crossed several Light-Years of space, but it would have taken us many years without our warp drive. I am suprised you are out this far with out some type of similar faster than light engine." Tempkin said.

"How is it you developed cloaking technology and not warp engines?" the First Officer blurted out, to the dismay of the Captain.

"*AHEM* Please excuse my subordinate, he is simply confused because your other systems seemed appropriately advanced, while your engines, arguably one of the most important systems on a ship, are... 'not up to par', as we say on my world.... Although we are all confused about what we scanned before we made contact with you... do you happen to have a cloaked vessel nearby?" Captain Tempkin asked with a raised eyebrow.

Kii're looked on impassively at the Phoenix Militian Commander.

"Our vessels are capable of travel within the boundaries of light speed, however not equal to nor beyond. These warp drives you speak of would be valued by our people. In regard to our technology, we do have a cloaked vessel in the vicinity.

"What would you desire in exchange for the technology and construction details behind these warp drives you speak of?"

"Since a number of our people owe you our lives, I am willing to share this information freely. In return we ask only your hand in friendship. I can send you a copy of Warp Field Theory, the scientific paper which got our warp program off the ground so many years ago. I will also send you the full schematics for our first warp capable engine. We could even give you some of the parts you would need to build your first prototype if you wish. Once you complete your first warp core and install it on a vessel, along with warp coils it should be capable of warp speed equivalent to a velocity of approxamitely 3 million kilometers per second. That is just under what we call 'warp two'. It should only be a matter of time before you find your own, unique ways of improving it. Unfourtantely the actual warp engines used today an seen before you are highly classified, and exchange of this information is not possible." Tempkin replied with a smile. :)

Kii're contemplated what the xenoform had just said. No doubt the concept of real interstellar travel would be very well recieved by The Nagorii, but the failure to procure a far more enhanced version would be frowned upon by many. After several minutes, his violet eyes turned to the back of the communications officer.

Send a message homeward questioning whether we should accept the offer that has been given, include all details, or whether we should strive to obtain more advanced schematics.

From behind, Kii're saw the head nod and the fingers begin to play across a surface only those with an HMC implant could detect. Already the message would be relayed via the HMC and homeward, to Nagoryfe. Turning his head back to the Commander of the Phoenix Militian fleet, Kii're continued to speak in his musical, apathetic voice.

"I have sought advice on the matter from whose better suited to make such a decision. On their behalf I thank you for the kindness of your offer. Is it not possible to make an exchange of plans for a piece of our technology in exchange for more advanced... 'warp' technology?"

"You must understand, with a technological leap such as warp technology, the potential for disaster is astronomical. Unless you customize this technology, advancing up the warp scale in smaller increments, you expose your ships and your people to many unnecessary risks. And I am not just talking about the inherent, technical dangers that come with rapidly moving from a non-warp to a warp society. You will find your culture will change and grow greatly with this new technology. The best approach is a slow, incremental one, self-designing your own engines to best fit your vessels' size, power requirements and travel needs. Adapting your designs as you master each part of the warp scale, or your needs change I know this may be frustrating but in the end you will appreciate it.. Trust me, you would not want to end up like the UMS... Their rapid acquisition of more and more advanced warp technology ultimately lead to the destruction of their entire society. Now that being said, I will contact my superiors, and, with the permission of your government of course, they will dispatch a smaller vessel from the diplomatic corps, and they can open trade more long-term trade negotiations and make proper first contact with your people. Although my initial scans did detect some minor technology we may be interested in trading some of ours for, I am not authorized to disclose any details of our current engine, defense or weapons systems, no matter what is offered in return." Captain Tempkin responded, barely taking the time to breathe in between sentences.

The moment he stopped talking the first officer tapped him on the shoulder, directing him to the blinking green light on his chair display, indicating the shuttles had returned.

"Please forgive me, but I must meet up with the survivors that you rescued and see that they are brought safely aboard, I'm sure they have been through quite an ordeal, please direct any questions to my First Officer while I am away" The Captain said as he turned to meet the Discovery crew on the hangar deck, and begin thier de-briefing.

Kii're nodded to the Captain and allowed the display to end. Immediately he turned toward the communications officer.

"What orders from homeworld?" In a rare move, Kii're spoke aloud.

We are to accept the offer of opening trade routes and send back the designs for this warp travel immediately. You are ordered to acquire the location of their colonies and divulge the location of our system.

Kii're nodded. "Send the appropriate communications.


Commander Tempkin,

Within are the coordinate for our home system. In exchange, we wish for the locations of your colonies, that we might begin trading once we have established this warp technology. Furthermore, we await the technological specifications and pieces of technology you agreed to deliver unto us.

"Open a channel, voice only" The first officer demanded.
"Captain Tempkin is currently unavailable, but we are transmitting you the location of of our nearest settlement, Starbase Seventy. Also, please stand by to recieve a cargo pod containig information and materials needed to start your warp program." he said once the channel was confirmed open with a head nod from the comm officer.

"Eject cargo pod, now." The First officer ordered as soon as the transmission was completed.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/grunt74/NS1/pod1.png

A black and yellow cargo pod flew at a high rate of speed from one of large torpeodo tubes toward the Nagorri, its retro rockets slowed it considerably as it approached the lead Nagorri vessel. Seconds after it had been fired, Captain Tempkin returned to the bridge. His gaze fell on the monitor which showed the cargo pod in transit and he grunted an order to the comm officer who quickly re-opened the channel, this time with video.

"On behalf of my government I wish to once again thank you for your help in rescuing our people, and extend to you an invitation to visit us when you get your warp program up and running. We need to get the wounded back to our territory so we will be on our way now. Safe travels!"



"Give me Fleet Wide" Tempkin ordered.
Channel open. the comm officer obeyed.
"This is Fleet Captain Tempkin to all ships, set course one two zero an engage at warp eight on my lead." he said, his hand hovering over the warp control button.