Prophetic Epilogue

Unofficial Literary Challenge 19 - Prompt 4 "Epilogue"

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Captain’s Log, Stardate 91247.5

As the Federation, and its Allies, expands into the Delta Quadrant, several systems are being properly charted.  Even if this age of conflict with the Iconians, there is a need to explore.  Solaris has seen some front line action, yet being an Excelsior-class meant we were delegated to supply runs.  Naturally this meant we have suffered fewer casualties than some other ships of the line.  In the course of our duties, I have ordered that we be sure to collect data on planets otherwise missing from record at every chance we can. 

On a particular low-priority mission, we were to pass system E538-alpha-7B.  This was the system on Stardate 54529.1 then Captain Kathryn Janeway deposited a group of Klingons who were travelling the Delta Quadrant in search of the kuvah’magh.  The third of six planets was logged as M-class.  Very little information about the system otherwise existed.  Solaris took the opportunity to develop information and check on the status of the pilgrims, maybe even offer the survivors a chance to “come home”, so to speak.  Coincidentally, my Security Chief had a distant relative who joined the crew of the Klingon vessel when it left the Alpha Quadrant.

Long-range scans returned contradicting information from Voyager’s logs.  As we altered course for further investigation, we determined only five planets were in-system.  Eventually we learned an M-class planet was not to be found.

Entered the system on the outer planet’s L2 point, deep scans of the system were conducted.  Immediately noticed was a large debris field between the second and third planets.  After a few hours correlating and verifying data, we discovered heavy traces of Anti-Proton radiation.  Although Astrometrics is convinced this was the class-M planet in Janeway’s logs, proof is either missing or circumstantial.

Without more time, or further analysis, I loathe thinking the Iconians were the direct cause.  Any reason for their action can only be speculated.  I’m also not willing to declare a natural catastrophic event either, yet it cannot be ruled out.  I think the presence of Anti-Proton radiation is the key.  It’s a mystery Solaris will have to leave for another time.

Fast Rescue

Unofficial Literary Challenge 18 - Prompt 3, "Where Are You?"

 

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The Vaadwaur’s lifeless body collapsed, smoke rising from the multiple phaser blasts to his cloak.

Still crouching, Anthi looked around the room still pointing her rifle at the large male, the room started to smell of cooked flesh.  A meter away to Anthi’s right, Staza Murai glanced around the transporter console, and then looked to Anthi as she slung her rifle over a shoulder.

“That was unexpected.”

Ignoring the casual comment considering the blast marks from the shootout decorating the transporter room, the Andorian looked toward her left and saw Omazei grimace from a burn wound to her shoulder and waved off Anthi’s look of concern.  The Trill’s face transformed to shock and she quickly moved to another officer across the room.

“Brin!”

The Talaxian was crumpled against a bulkhead, blood oozing from an open laceration at his stomach.  Anthi stood and could tell Brin was dead.  Nonetheless, Omazei tapped her combadge and ordered an emergency transport to Sick Bay and both were washed in a blue translucent shower before disappearing.

Finally, the transporter officer stood.  Anthi recognized the human female.  “Ensign, what the hell happened?  Where’s the Captain?”

Cira Beitz wiped sweat from her brow while also moving a strand of loose brown hair from her eyes.  The rest of her jaw-length hair was disheveled.  Attacking the console, she quickly responded, “The record shows her pattern was intercepted and redirected.”  She nodded to the Vaadwaur.  “His pattern infiltrated the beam at the same time.”

Staza stepped forward.  “Can you locate Kathryn?”

The question raised Anthi’s eyebrows and her antennae turned toward the Orion.  The First Officer was surprised at Staza’s congenial use of the Captain’s first name.  Although Anthi did the same regularly, she didn’t think the Empire’s liaison was on friendly enough terms with Kathryn.

The Ensign’s fingers fluttered across the console again.  “Yes.  She’s still on the surface near the transport site.”

Anthi and Staza looked to each other with equal horror.  “Get her out of there”, ordered the Andorian.

After a few moments, Cira shook her head.  “I’m unable to secure a lock for more than a second.  She’s been moved to one of the hab-domes.”  After another second, “she is in a room with three others.”

The First Officer stepped up and verified Cira’s results.  She whispered a curse.  “Keep trying.”  Looking to the Orion, Anthi invited, “ready to rescue the Captain?”

Staza pulled her sleek plasma rifle off her shoulder and checked the charge.  Satisfied, she winked and stalked to the transporter pad.

Anthi followed.  She tapped her combadge.  “Bridge, the Captain is still on the surface.  Staza and I are going to get her back.”  She checked her own power supply, then pulled a stun grenade from her belt pack and armed it.

Turning to the transporter officer, she asked, “can you drop us in that room?” 

Cira shook her head again.  “Too much interference in the building.  But outside –“

Anthi interrupted, “do it.”  She pointed to the Vaadwaur corpse.  “And get that filth off this ship.”

+++

Crossing his arms, the Commando sneered, “by now your team is dead.”  The guards to either side of Kathryn’s chair huffed, thinking their leader’s comment was comical.

Kathryn looked up.  One eye was swollen shut from a purple contusion.  She smirked from bloodied lips.  “One man against hundreds, he will not get far.”

“It will not matter, because we have you.  The Federation will –“

The door behind the Commando burst open and Staza rolled to the side.  As she stopped in a crouch, a teal-colored beam lanced through the room to a guard on Kathryn’s left.  He yelped as the plasma beam seared through his chest and caused his jacket to burn.

Lying on the ground outside the doorway, Anthi took a shot into the room.  The orange phaser beam found the other guard’s face, charring skin.

The officer pulled a pistol from a holster and returned fire toward the door while moving behind Kathryn’s chair.  Staza and Anthi fired again but missed their mark.

Pointing the gun to Kathryn’s head, the officer shouted, “another shot and your Captain dies.”

After a few seconds of tense silence, Anthi lowered the rifle and slowly stood with hands raised.  Staza continued to crouch but lowered her rifle to the floor.

Grinning, the Commando was smug.  “Good, good.  Three top officers from [i]Solaris[/i].”

Anthi ignored him.  “Captain, you look down and out.”

Kathryn’s eyes widened and she looked to Anthi’s right hand.  The Andorian’s palm was facing outward and a thin black ring encircled the middle finger.  “This is going to hurt.”

“Eh?”  The Vaadwaur looked down to Kathryn and that was Anthi’s chance.

The Tactical officer quickly flung her arms forward.  The grenade hidden from the Vaudwaar’s view soared toward him, the locking pin still on Anthi’s finger.  As the small cylinder flew, Kathryn ducked at the waist and fell to the floor.  The Commando’s surprise was obvious as he just stared at the projectile.  At impact on the Vaadwaur’ chest, the stun grenade exploded, engulfing him in a vapor of smoke while the shock wave from the blast pierced his ears.  Kathryn screamed from the grenade’s effect.

Anthi dropped to the ground and lifted her rifle as Staza did the same.  They fired into the Commando’s chest and he crumpled to the floor, lifeless.

Rushing to Kathryn as she writhed in pain, Anthi tapped her badge.  “Cira as soon as we leave the building, beam us out, emergency protocols.”  The Andorian and Orion lifted Kathryn to their shoulders and exited the building, then disappeared before Vaadwaur reinforcements arrived.

 

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Cast for crew:
Kathryn Beringer - Rachel Nichols
Anthi Ythysi - Katheryn Winnick
Staza Murai - Sarah Lind
Cira Beitz - Selma Blair
Omazei - Gemma Arterton
Brin - Miles Teller
Vaadwaur Commando - Male street extra 1
Vaadwaur Soldiers (2) - Male street extra 2 and 3

 

Endangering the Mundane

Unofficial Literary Challenge 17 - Prompt 2 "Sheer Boredom"

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 Kathryn looked from the PADD with raised eyebrows to the two officers standing relaxed before her desk. The blonde female was relatively young wearing Science department colors on her uniform. She was lithe and her long blonde hair was styled with extra volume. The Vulcan’s short midnight black hair was a stark contrast to her uniform’s Operation yellow highlights on an otherwise traditionally black-colored uniform. Sitting, Kathryn put the PADD on her desk and crossed her arms, yet smiled approvingly as she reclined her chair.

“This is a great idea. Why not?”

Counselor Harrington’s smile seemed to brighten the room.

S’Rel’s typically neutral affect almost turned to grimace from the Captain’s judgment and cleared her throat indicating she was about to speak next. “Captain, we are currently on a system charting mission. This event would be a distraction from duty.”

Christa rolled her eyes slightly. “That is fully appreciated. From what I can tell, the Astrometrics teams are the ones doing most of the work and I’m sure they are relishing the experience. All fun and no play make Starfleet a dull -”. She shrugged searching for words, and then settling on the most obvious. “Fleet.”

Swiveling her chair toward the windows, Kathryn mused further on the arguments presented as she absentmindedly rubbed a finger against the rank pips on her collar. Solaris was resting at the second Lagrange point of the largest planet in the current system. As such, there was not much to see. Not being in motion for a few days while various probes and shuttles were used for deep-data scans and measurements did have some crew members itching for duties beyond expectantly mundane tasks. Although times like these are a part of the ‘job’, it was true that Astrometric personnel were the busiest. Even Kathryn caught herself looking for something official to do on occasion. At least her list of things-to-do-when-nothing-else-was-happening was getting shorter.

Looking back to the officers, Kathryn looked to S’Rel. “Your advice is always appreciated, yet I think a little distraction will be good for moral.” She then looked to Christa. “At the same time, the crew needs to stay focused on their duties. This must not have a time frame that will force decisions to be made that could endanger their original task and ultimately the ship. I don’t want discipline to falter because of this.”

Both officers spoke at the same time. “Yes, sir.”

“Christa, with that said, I’ll leave the details up to you. Make sure the Duty Leaders understand the importance to follow-up on their teams as scheduled and to reign in anyone having too much fun. Finally, I request that anything making the list not involve EVA.”

“Yes, Captain.”

Kathryn saluted from her chair. Christa and S’Rel saluted and walked out the room. The doors stayed open as Anthi walked in looking over her shoulder. The doors closed and she walked up to Kathryn’s desk. Pointing a thumb to the door, she asked, “what was all that about?”

Kathryn stood and wore a wry smile on her face. “Ever been on a scavenger hunt before?”

+++

Cast for crew:
Kathryn Beringer - Rachel Nichols
S'Rel - Morena Baccarin
Christa Harrington - Emily Bett Rickards
Anthi Ythysi - Katheryn Winnick

In A Name

Unofficial Literary Challenge 16 - A Future That Many Will Never See - Prompt 1

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The wind crossing the bridge was strong enough to have pulled Kathryn’s hair bun apart. Long burgundy hair flowed from the invisible currents. A burst of air forced her to pull the satchel back over her shoulder while also tightening the grip on the long coat’s collar. Kathryn noticed that the guard wall, though solid, did not seem to block any of the San Franciscan wind gusting through the Bay Area. Her uniform boots clicked sharply against the ferro-steel of the walkway and seemed not to blend with the occasional roar from the transit tube five meters away. Wincing from the cold Kathryn kept her pace strong to ensure she was at the meeting spot on time. The closer she got to the apex of the bridge the more she could see the Orion invited to the ceremony. Staza Murai also wore a thick long coat in the style of the Klingon Empire colored black with grey highlights. Her verdant hair moved with the wind like Kathryn’s, yet the shorter style made it easier to fall back into place when the air calmed. Staza’s eyes were closed and she clearly did not want to stand on the Golden Gate Bridge longer than she needed to, if at all.

Smiling, Kathryn said, “thank you for being here.” She placed the metallic satchel between them. It landed with a metallic crunch and was clearly heavy.

Staza spoke through her teeth, “my pleasure, Captain. I have not waited long. Your message was a bit cryptic though, so I am very curious about this ceremony we are to attend. Especially here.” Staza looked around until another gust of wind pierced her discomfort, forcing a shiver and withdrawing into the coat as best she could.

A tube-tram zoomed past before Kathryn replied. “It’s just something I do when Solaris is in dry dock here at Earth.” She bent down and opened the satchel. Staza leaned over Kathryn’s shoulder to see the contents. Standing, Kathryn pulled out small silver metal rectangular slates approximately twelve by two by one centimeter. She placed the slates to the left hand, yet held one with the right. She turned it over until words faced her.

Kathryn looked to Staza, and then to the Bay River below. “Cameron Umbebu.” She threw the slate over-hand. It sparkled as it tumbled toward the water far below. After a few seconds she held another slate and read the name aloud before she threw it over the side.

Staza looked into the satchel again. “Forgive me, Captain, but there must be over one hundred of those plates.”

“You’re right, two-hundred-forty-seven to be exact.” She looked at another plate. “Tuomas Kernig”. The slate was thrown.

“This is a funeral ceremony?” Staza shivered from the wind again.

Kathryn looked to Staza, nodded and smiled. “It’s not much to look at, but I’ve already written the letters and visited families where I could. This is my personal way to say good-bye to the crew of my ship.”

“Why here?”

“All Starfleet crew start their formal career in the Academy, as you know.” Kathryn nodded in the direction of the campus to the south. “I think it is fitting they end their career here, instead of the unforgiving deep, silent, complete black.”

Another tube-tram sped past them before Staza said, “that’s very poetic. But why here, on this bridge?”

Kathryn reached for a few more slates. “Privacy.” She held the slates in both hands and looked at them for a few seconds. “I couldn’t do something like this on Academy grounds. Yet, I wanted to do something more for these crewpersons more than what regulations or traditions demanded. So, I made my own tradition. Their names on these plates, left in the waters near the Academy, make me feel like they will live forever, even when I’m gone.”

Staza nodded and looked down to her feet. “You really care for your crew. I’m … impressed.”

After a few seconds, Kathryn moved plates to prepare for another throwing and continued, “I chose to accept my rank, even though I may not have been the most qualified. It has been my decision to keep Solaris, even though I earned other commissions. My crew joined Starfleet by choice, knowing their lives could be cut short from conflict or accident. And some are on these plates because of my decisions. They gave up everything … for Starfleet. For me.” Kathryn looked at the name in her hand. “Regig Zthar”, and she threw the slate.

Looking away, Staza took a step to the side giving Kathryn command of the rail where she stood. “I knew Regig. He was kind to me when I first arrived to your ship.”

Kathryn looked over her shoulder. “For a Tellarite, that means something.”

“Captain, why did you invite me?”

“We’ve had our differences. But we’ve also worked through them.” Kathryn shrugged. “I’d like to think I’ve earned your trust, because you have earned mine. So, I wanted to share this moment with you.”

Staza smirked mischievously. “Now tell me why I’m really here.”

Kathryn turned to face the Orion. The wind swirled around them, blowing their hair wildly. Once calm, Kathryn said, “If the time comes, I’m hoping you will stand here and throw my name.”

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Cast for crew:
Kathryn Beringer - Rachel Nichols
Staza Murai - Sarah Lind

Flint and Steel

Unofficial Literary Challenge 14 - The Sound of Q-sic, Prompt 3

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Club 47 in Earth Space Dock had reopened from extensive renovations and Kathryn was invited to its first day reveal. She was not too sociable on her ship and she felt that appropriate. Although she had friends on Solaris, and had good rapport with the crew, it was also a place of duty. Yet, for this occasion, Kathryn decided to let her hair down, literally.

Her hair flowed from a short part along the right side of her head, with a slight wave, over her left shoulder revealing a long segmented ear ring to the right. Staying on the conservative side due to the other attendees being either diplomats or higher-ranking members of Starfleet and the Federation, her azure dress extended to the floor and covered her arms. Not being overly modest herself, she allowed her back to be exposed with the dress hanging from her neck and waist. From her hips, the dress exhibited her bare legs behind a wrapped curtain of lightweight sheer material which shimmered in the light. At just under six feet tall bare-footed, her dark burgundy high heeled shoes made Kathryn feel like an Amazon relative to other guests, even if it was only three more inches.

Multi-colored beams of light streaked from a rotating ball that floated around the cavernous room. It orbited a larger device blaring loud music, mostly from human origin. The room itself was plainly ornamented to allow for strobe lights to serve as constantly moving decoration. From that effect, shadows were stark and changed constantly. Although every corner of the dance room was visible, it was intermittent. The point was that privacy was not possible.

But that is what Kathryn wanted. After dancing with changing partners for a few exciting songs, she decided that was enough. Carefully dodging past other dancers, she reached the edge of the brightly lit dance floor and lifted her dress to allow for safe climbing up the stairs to the bar-room. Passing a force field between the rooms, the music instantly muffled to a dull warble or rhythmic thump. Kathryn pulled at her hair to keep it on her left side as she strolled to the bar and ordered a drink. Seconds later, a teal-colored drink appeared in a short clear glass with ice cubes floating within. She took a sip and looked toward the lounge area of Club 47. Knowing that area was the antithesis of the dance floor (while sharing a beautiful view of the Earth), she smiled slightly and walked toward peace and quiet.

Throughout the evening, Kathryn had been involved in various conversations. All of them generic small talk; the kind you would expect to have with unfamiliar people or higher-ranking officers. A polite, and sometimes professional, distance was maintained in the dialog. She didn’t expect salacious propositions as if she were at Drozana Station or even Risa, even if Club 47 was a bar, lounge, and dance floor inside Earth Space Dock. Although an “official” event, it was comforting not to have to talk “business”. On board a starship, most conversations tend to be toward its proper maintenance, or the specification to handle this-or-that duty.

Passing another force field, the already muted music from the bar area was almost eliminated completely. The serenity of the lounge, coupled with an expansive view of nearby space dominated by the Earth to the side was breathtaking. The lounge had plenty of available seating, especially for an event like this. Kathryn mentally shrugged off the curious fact and sat at an empty table closest to the main window. On board her ship, she enjoyed sitting at window seats to enjoy a drink. Her reverie swam through histories, reminders and nonsensical thoughts until a starship floated into view. The graceful, and intimidating, form of an Odyssey-class ship captured her attention until it disappeared.

“The USS Orion.”

Kathryn was startled as the speaker was standing near her table. Looking, the human male was clearly Asian and aged well. Dark grey hair worn long and to the shoulders, the Fu Manchu was also dark grey and made his distinguished presence intimidating. He wore the Command colors on his Admiral’s tunic. Kathryn noted she did not see anyone else in Club 47 wearing a uniform, other than the woman standing to his side and a step behind.

Her dark hair fell straight to the middle of her torso. Cheeks seemed to flow straight to the jaw accentuated by thick lips, even wearing a neutral expression she exuded a sexy friendliness. The standard-issue uniform’s white shoulders revealed her as a starship captain. Looking at the woman, Kathryn could not help but smile, partly out of relief for a friendly face between the two visitors.

Clearing her throat, Kathryn stood and saluted. Efficiently, the Admiral waved to brush aside protocol, have Kathryn sit back down and invite his female partner to sit down at the table. Kathryn was compelled to sit in her chair and wait for the next move.

The Admiral spoke first, “Captain Kathryn Selena Beringer, please meet Captain Tracy Maxwell Kent”.

Tracy nodded and smiled as she sat into a nearby chair, crossing her legs. Kathryn felt more relaxed and lifted her glass. She then watched the Admiral sit into another seat.

As he sat, the Admiral became more congenial, “my apologies to interrupt your festivities, I hope you are enjoying yourself?”

“Yes, indeed, Admiral Marik.”

The man smiled stroking his moustache. “Let me be brief: what is your opinion on orbital bombardment?”

Kathryn could not hide her surprise at the query. “Excuse me, sir?”

“I know this may not seem the place or time to discuss official business, but it is necessary.”

He did not ask the question again, nor did the Admiral explain it. Kathryn arranged her thoughts and took a sip to help buy time to craft an effectual answer.

“It’s not Starfleet’s best tool in the box to solve problems.”

Tracy and Marik exchanged glances and Kathryn felt as if she had just answered a word-problem with a number.

Captain Kent leaned forward enough for her hair to fall past her shoulders. “Of course. Let me be blunt, the Corps of Engineers have been working on projects focused on kinetic weapons, of all types. Torpedo technology has improved greatly since the days of Kirk. Yet, with everything happening in the galaxy, our negotiators need more force available to them, so to speak.” Her silky voice matched her beauty, yet Kathryn heard an edge in her words.

Kathryn’s raised an eyebrow. “Negotiators shouldn’t need firepower.”

Smirking, Kent replied, “normally we’d agree with that statement. The Iconians proved time and again Starfleet was not prepared …,” her countenance changed as her lips trembled for a moment second before she found her place again. “Well, let’s say it’s better to have a box with tools you may not need. Wouldn’t you agree, Captain?”

“I suppose.” Kathryn glanced at her drink before taking a sip to respect whatever loss Tracy remembered.

Admiral Marik spoke next. “Have you seen the new Jupiter-class yet, Captain?”

The change in topic was abrupt. Maybe the Admiral was pushing aside ‘work’ for a moment to help Tracy? “Yes. Very impressive. She will be the pride of the fleet, I’m sure.”

“Captain Kent is slotted to receive a ship from the first wave. The redesign is a perfect platform to test new weapons.” The Admiral stroked his beard again. “It’s going to replace the Galaxy-class in that regard.”

Marik’s dovetailing the topics made Kathryn feel uneasy. Sitting a little straighter in the chair she cocked her head to the side and looked to both officers. “Forgive me Admiral, but what’s going on here?”

Tracy sat back into her chair and looked to Marik as if to receive permission. He didn’t look away from Kathryn. She glanced over her shoulders before explaining. “One of the new Jupiter-class vessels will be the platform to test a new catastrophic weapon. The Javelin Lance uses kinetic technology at its simplest form. Essentially, a large Decatritanium ‘spike’ will be launched from orbit via electromagnetic rail at a ground target. The planet’s gravity takes over, pulling the ship-long missile to target.”

Kathryn’s eyes widened as she imagined the weapon and it’s causing fantastic destruction. In her mind’s eye, a large nail dived into the heart of an average-sized city and everything melted from amazing heat and explosion from impact. Cognizance whirled as she griped with the weapon’s feasibility and disagreed with the concept.

“Energy-based attacks are more accurate … a hell of a lot more accurate. The Javelin is simply indiscriminate.”

The warmth of Tracy’s smile was cooled by the mischievous look in her eyes. Admiral Marik cleared his throat. “Regardless of the details, the purpose of our meeting is to recruit your ship to assist with finding suitable testing grounds. Simulations prove the weapon is viable, but there’s nothing like the real thing. Captain Kent will be commanding the vessel. Myself or Admiral Takashi Kurita will be your contacts.”

“I …,” Kathryn paused. Being a starship Captain, she had a lot of leeway with decisions. Sometimes though, orders were orders and Kathryn had yet to be faced with a situation that pushed against her own moral judgment so much as to jeopardize her career. Admiral Marik was not overtly giving an order, yet it was undeniable that he was doing so.

Ships have increased in their lethality, and every cruiser on the line had orbital strike capabilities. Solaris was no different; the fact she has yet to use it may be either luck or fortune. But the power to obliterate a city was always at her command. From another point of view, by joining Starfleet, she accepted the possibility to do something against the fringes of her own professional morality.

Did this weapon, and this discussion, breach some personal code? The Federation was at full war with the Iconians. Before that, the Vaadwaur, Undine, Voth and Klingons. Starfleet was a military, after all, and weapon development was sure to take many turns. So, was the Admiral really asking for more than what was expected from a Starfleet Captain?

Kathryn decided he wasn’t. Before Kathryn could finish responding, Admiral Marik raised a hand to interrupt. He smiled as spoke.

“Don’t get me wrong, Captain Beringer. Your ship will not have this mission alone. Although the project is still in development, the prototype is ready. Coupled with the current state of affairs, targets are to be discovered rather than sought after; targets of opportunity, so to speak. We want to test on remote, desolate worlds with no chance against any form of life. COE plans this project will not be fully operational for several months, due to the Jupiter’s rollout, maybe more years before we see production onto capital ships. Yet, there is some secrecy involved, and that’s why we are discussing this with you personally, in a setting that would not be expected by prying eyes and ears.”

And that cleared the way for Kathryn.

“Yes, sir. I understand. Solaris is ready for this task.

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Cast:
Kathryn Beringer - Rachel Nichols
Captain Tracy Maxwell Kent - Monica Belluci
Admiral Janos Marik - Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa
Mentioned but not seen:
Admiral Takashi Kurita - Ken Watanabe

Decrypted Encryption

Unofficial Literary Challenge 15 - Stand For Your Crew

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S’Rel strode through the doors after permission was granted. Her lithe and diminutive figure hid her fierce intelligence. S’Rel was well suited as the Operations Chief for USS Solaris as Vulcans were well-known for their acumen. She stopped at the desk and handed a PADD to Captain Kathryn Beringer. “As requested, these are the candidates with the necessary qualifications,” S’Rel reported dispassionately.

Kathryn activated the PADD, raised an eyebrow and looked up. “Only three?”

“With the necessary qualifications,” reminded S’Rel.

“Very well. Of these three, do you have a preference?”

“No. Each is fully qualified to resolve the problem.”

Looking back at the PADD, Kathryn queried, “I see one has been on board for only two weeks, transferred directly from the Academy no less. I’m very curious about his selection for this list.”

S’Rel placed both hands behind her back. “Because he is Orion, and the problem may require his knowledge of the Federation, from a certain point of view.”

Kathryn smiled. “I see. Thank you, S’Rel. Your counsel is always appreciated.”

The Vulcan nodded, and then turned on her heels to exit quietly.

+++

On Deck Eleven, Kizan entered the Systems Operations Lab and smiled as he sat at a console. As a Systems Engineer, his duty was to check on various technical routines in Solaris’ Main Computer core. It was a tedious task typically reserved for the ‘green’ crew members. As an Orion, the irony in the Terran expression was not lost on him. Regardless, Kizan was not sure when that status would change, although he presumed with the next group of crew transfers. He expected having to do menial tasks due to his recent arrival to Solaris, because even these responsibilities were necessary for the proper function of a starship. He tapped a code onto a keypad and various darkened displays came to life. He looked around and made mental notes, ultimately deciding on a course of action based on priorities. As he activated his duty manifest, the doors to the room swished open and closed quickly, distracting him to look at who was entering the room.

“Good morning Bolo. Are you ready for yet another busy day?”

The Exocomp floated next to Kizan and landed on a slate that served as a landing pad. Bolo hummed a little louder even though its anti-gravity coils ceased activity. Kizan’s smile was static as he grabbed a few connecting cables and attached them to various ports on Bolo’s shell. More displays closer to Bolo activated. Where Kizan’s screen showed information that could be relatively understood by most other crew members, Bolo’s screen showed complex code patterns and equations: it was the untranslated language of computers.

Looking back to his unread duty manifest, Kizan expected to see a list of tasks to accomplish. Instead, only one was listed. Interested, he opened the file and became surprised to see it come from the Captain herself. “What have we here?” He reviewed the short message quickly and his heart started beating a little faster; he was being tasked to decode an encrypted message, source unknown.

The thought of changing his expected routine thrilled him. Having arrived on the ship only two weeks ago, he didn’t expect to have any special assignments for a little longer. He felt like he had to prove something because he was one of two Orions on a crew compliment of over seven hundred, especially one lead by the “Scarlet Scorpion”. The Captain’s nickname was known by various circles in the Syndicate and was synonymous with viscous vendetta.

And that is what caused trepidation. Before joining Starfleet, Kizan was known as Nazdik. He had grown bored of the Syndicate’s constant demands for code breaking and hacking jobs. Although it paid well, he knew he was on the darker side of the law, even Orion law, much less the Empire’s. He started to learn secrets he shouldn’t know about. Eventually, Nazdik decided to get out of the game before he got in too deep. He figured the best way out was to disappear completely. With his skills, erasing his existence and making a new one was just as easy. What he couldn’t erase was the knowledge he gained about the Syndicate. Nazdik didn’t need to make a fortune to live well, yet Syndicate secrets can get anyone killed fast. Joining Starfleet was the safest place he could think of in the galaxy to hide from the Syndicate.

His results in the Academy were just about average, intentionally. Kizan did not want more attention than his race already attracted. The education was grueling at times and he knew he was being indoctrinated in Federation ways. Even knowing propaganda was being pushed, he started to agree with several policies. Procedures and protocol became routine. Naturally, he excelled in computer-related tasks. After graduation he found a posting on the USS Solaris. Kizan jostled daily whether his transfer to this ship, out of all the others in the Fleet, was serendipity, fate, dumb luck, or random chance.

Although the Syndicate’s reach was long, with his new identity the chances were slim he would be found. Yet, was his past identity revealed? The Ambassadorial attaché, Staza Murai, was the other Orion on the ship and Kizan had no doubt she had connections in the Syndicate (or at least knew who to reach). Or maybe this was a test in some way? The Andorian Chief Engineer was a stern man and did not tolerate mediocrity. Kizan heard the tale of a Lieutenant put in the brig for taking a procedural shortcut that caused damage to the ship. He could have looked in the records to check the veracity of that story, but decided that … what was Terran phrase … ‘ignorance is bliss.’

In another strange twist to his new life, once aboard the ship his lab partner was not even organic. Exocomps were already a rare species (if that was applicable) and Kizan had heard of them before, but never met one until his posting. ‘Bolo’ was the name Kizan gave the Exocomp and he wasn’t sure if that bothered … it. The name rolls off the tongue and personalized the little machine for him. They communicated through a console display: Kizan read the words and verbalized responses.

Bolo replied and Kizan shook his head. “I don’t know yet, I have not read the details. I’m thinking it’s pretty important though; the end line declares this project top secret and results go directly to Lieutenant Commander S’Rel.” He snorted with a grin. “The message also orders the results not go into the rumor mill, so I guess whatever is found here, stays here.”

Another response. “Let me see what I can do on my own. If I need assistance, then I’ll let you know. I’ve started prioritizing tasks, would you mind handling them until I crack this encryption?”

Kizan read the next line from Bolo. “That’s real funny. I have the Latinum bar and raise you another that I can get this done before our duty shift ends.”

+++

Two hours later, Kizan was hunched over a console watching data slowly scroll up the screen. When a particular series were revealed, he entered some code, and then allowed the data to scroll. Finally, two words displayed: Access Denied and his confidence waned from the tenth attempt. His eyebrow twitched at the sight of those words in Terran. Recalling prior attempts, he rearranged letters and numbers in his head to another sequence, and then attacked the data entry display. Sweat beaded down his temple slowly. Another data series appeared, a correction was entered and the data scrolled again. Kizan paused the hacking process and looked away to give his eyes some rest, then turned to face Bolo as he stretched his arms wide.

“Whoever, or whatever, made this encryption really didn’t want anyone else to read it.”

Looking to the chat bar, Kizan nodded. “I suppose so, and no I still want to figure this one out. It’s a challenge directly from the Captain.” More text appeared. “I’d like to think Thel knows about this. He was a part of the Captain’s first command if I recall correctly. So, they’ve been together awhile. Secrets can be deadly to the soul, you know.” He caught the remark and apologized, “Sorry about that.”

Kizan stood and put a hand to his chin as he thought through his typical decryption tools. He recalled an idea tucked away and never used. As the code coalesced into navigable form, visions of the letters and numbers seemed to organize in front of him. He snapped his fingers.

“Bolo, have you ever tried a predetermined modulating algorithm before?”

Smiling from the response, Kizan continued, “I thought about that idea several yea … uh … a long time ago, but never put anything down. I feel like I have tried everything else for this problem though.”

Anti-gravity coils hummed and Bolo lifted enough to turn toward Kizan’s primary workstation.

“Oh, you want to see it?”

Kizan sat down and cracked the knuckles in his hand. He learned the gesture from classmates at the Academy and found it loosened his fingers allowing for quick work. Fingers almost blurred as they flew across the console display to enter the new code string.

Bolo had asked a question and the flashing text caught Kizan’s attention. “If this works, then I’ll tell you more about it. Although I appreciate you are not hacking the display to sneak-a-peak. It’s no secret really, just a few major tweaks in well-known decryption programs.”

After several minutes, the final key was entered and the segregated computer processed the algorithm to the encrypted message. Kizan watched the main display screen with anticipation.

Access Granted

“Success!” Kizan yelped as he sat back into his chair feeling triumphant. Sitting straight, he replaced elation with concentration as the contents of the message appeared, first as garbled code with nonsensical script laced with numbers and chaotic images. As the algorithm decoded the scrambled information, readable text appeared.

Bolo had already sent a flashing note. Being a sentient computer, Bolo’s ability to comprehend was easily faster than the Orion. As the enormity of the message dawned on Kizan, he realized his mouth was open from awe. He looked to the flashing message and nodded. “Yes, of course.” Tapping his com badge, Kizan had to keep his task secret in case the Vulcan was around others, “Sys Ops to Lieutenant Commander S’Rel. The work is complete. Please meet in Systems Operations Lab Two.”

After a paused, Sr’Rel responded, “can the data be sent to my workstation?”

He gulped as he reread parts of the message. “I do not recommend it, sir.”

Three seconds passed before S’Rel replied, “on my way.”

+++

Kathryn Beringer finished reviewing the information on the PADD. She looked to Kizan, who was standing at attention at the front of her desk. She looked to S’Rel standing next to Kizan, also at attention. Bolo floated serenely to the other side of his Orion partner. She then cleared her throat.

“This came directly from the System Operation lab?”

“Yes, sir.” Kizan’s reply was crisp.

Nodding, Kathryn continued, “good. Recall your orders: this is not grist for the mill. Bolo, I trust the record of this event will be erased? Route any queries to me.” Bolo descended a few centimeters before rising back to its original altitude to show its compliance.

She looked to the three standing in front of her desk. Satisfied, Kathryn sat back into her chair. “Very good, dismissed.”

After the doors closed, Kathryn activated her desk comp. “Computer, Priority One message to Admiral Kurita, Starfleet Command. Security engram Kathryn Alpha-Zero-One. Message: Intercepted encoded transmission in Argama Sector. Location of T development compromised. End message. Encrypt and send. Then delete sent file history, authorization Kathryn-Zeta-Eight-Eight.”

The ship’s computer beeped.

---
Cast for crew:
Kathryn Beringer - Rachel Nichols
S'Rel - Morena Baccarin
Kizan - Theo James
Bolo - Himself

Mentioned but not seen:
Thel Ythysi - Kevin Sorbo
Admiral Takashi Kurita - Ken Watanabe

Undeniable Evidence

Literary Challenge 22 - Undeniable Evidence

---

In the Briefing Room …

The initial words on the data slate screen tore through Kathryn’s heart. She held her breath and dreaded reading through the whole document. Events as they were described were created in her mind’s eye and clashed with her sense of reality. Anthi Ythysi, Commander and First Officer of the Federation Starship Solaris, was being accused by the Deferi for theft of highly sensitive technology and four counts of murder. Damning evidence was added to the report as investigation showed DNA patterns with accompanying images, showing hair follicles and finger prints.

Then Kathryn re-read the alleged time of the crime and all anxiety washed away. She forced herself to hide the relief as muscles relaxed. The rest of the document was scanned quickly, yet respectfully. Kathryn placed the data slate on the desk and slid it toward the constable standing on the other side of her desk. Shaking her head, she confidently stated, “This was not perpetrated by my First Officer.”

Standing at attention, the Deferi’s affect changed from triumph to incredulity. “I beg your pardon Captain? Forgive my impertinence, but did you not see the evidence gathered?”

With a wry smile, Kathryn stood and walked around the desk and stopped at the window. Outside floated an asteroid containing a supply depot manned by the Deferi. As an Excelsior-class ship, the Transwarp computer granted greater control of faster-than-light speeds than most of the other Federation vessels. Thus, Solaris was sent to retrieve materiels for the war effort. Kathryn didn’t mind duty behind the lines, as her minor efforts assisted the greater cause. And on this visit, the Deferi was accusing Anthi of having done more than manage a supply run.

Kathryn turned on her heels to look at the constable. She was resolute with her disclosure. “You see, at the time of the crime, Anthi was with me. We were running battle simulations in our Holodeck. There are logs and witnesses, other than myself, to corroborate this fact and dispute the accusations.”

The Deferi slightly bowed his head. “That may be so, but from our point of view, the facts in the report are incontrovertible. With respect to the Alliance, and to balance the loss to your crew, two hours are granted to make accommodations. We are confident the criminal will be turned over for processing.”

+++

In Kathryn’s Ready-Room …
“Captain, this is just not possible,” Anthi was exasperated. Looking at the data slate, she shook her head as her Andorian antennae twitched.

Kathryn was sympathetic. “I know. It’s unbelievable. Yet, Annika confirmed it’s your DNA.”

“But you know the truth!”

“And the Deferi knows another one.” Kathryn sighed. “I’m not saying they are right; they can’t be. Yet, time is against us before action happens. We’re on our own to solve this.”

Anthi stood. “Solve what? I didn’t do this!”

Kathryn raised a hand to calm her animated friend. “I know. There must be an explanation for how you could be in … two places … at … once.” Thoughts whirled in Kathryn’s head. Her words raised a probability not considered before.

“Captain?”

Looking to her friend, Kathryn smiled quickly and then headed toward the Bridge. Anthi curiously followed and saw Kathryn head toward Omazei’s science station. Sitting at the console was the Trill Science Chief.

“Omazei, run a sensor scan of local space. Look for Tachyon emissions or traces of interphasic rifts.”

Without questioning, Omazei’s fingers danced upon the console surface. Within seconds, the viewscreen altered from normal space to a tactical display. On the screen was the asteroid and Solaris’ position in orbit. The image expanded to show the entire system and a red dot appeared near the sun. “Sensors have detected a concentration of Tachyon particles at that location.”

“How old is that phenomenon?”

After reading more data, Omazei replied, “at least six hours.”

Kathryn pursed her lips. “Okay. Try this: scan the outpost. Find Anthi.”

Everyone on the bridge stopped working to look at Kathryn.

She looked around. “I know it sounds crazy, but I think this station was visited by the Terran Empire.”

Omazei recovered first and tapped on her console. “Captain, Anthi, er, the other Anthi, is on the station!”

“Can you lock on her position and transport to the brig?”

Anthi grinned, “that’ll be a pleasant surprise”.

Nodding, Omazei added, “it can be done.”

“Good.” Kathryn turned to Anthi. “Want to see yourself without using a mirror?”

Anthi cracked the knuckles on her hand. “Yes.”

+++

Later, in the brig …

Kathryn stepped closer to the shielding. The hairs on her neck raised and her nose was tickled by the energy field. “I guess I shouldn’t be surprised.” Behind her, Anthi stood next to the Deferi constable.

On the other side of the shield, the Terran Andorian looked almost feral. Her hair was disheveled while fingernails were long and dirty. Dried blood stained her Starfleet uniform. She smiled and Kathryn could almost make out fanged cusped. “I’m past due reporting. My captain will be here any minute. You are all dead.”

“Including you?”

Anthi spat, “very likely.”

Crossed her arms, Kathryn paced along the edge of the force field and was smug. “I’ve met your captain. She can be ruthless, so I wonder: if you have not reported back, then what’s to say she hasn’t abandoned you?”

That comment surprised the Andorian. She turned around and sat on the bench without saying a word, then looked at a side wall and scratched at her thighs.

Kathryn grunted. “No. If I were your captain, I wouldn’t do that to you. If the plan was to implicate my First Officer, then you were easy to find.” She pointed a finger to the captive. “That’s right, you have turned into a liability to your captain.” Looking to the walls of the brig before turning away, Kathryn spoke over her shoulder. “Enjoy your stay on Solaris. I doubt your return to the Abyssal will be as comfortable.”

The Deferi constable stopped Kathryn. “Captain, lives were taken and property stolen. There would be a tilting of justice, if she were to stay here!”

“Constable, if the Abyssal comes back for Anthi, then it would be very wise she stay on board my ship.” Kathryn looked back to the Terran prisoner. “It seems you have just become a bargaining tool. Well done, your mission was a grand success.”

Turning to her First Officer, Kathryn ordered, “Anthi, go to Yellow Alert. We’ll wait for a day, and then remand her to Deferi Authorities. If Kathryn really wants her back, then we’ll cross that bridge. Otherwise, she will spend the … balance of her days in this Universe.” Glancing to the constable, she asked, “is that acceptable?”

The constable smiled triumphantly and nodded.

---

Cast:
Kathryn Beringer - Rachel Nichols
Anthi Ythysi - Katheryn Winnick
Omazei - Gemma Arterton
Deferi constable - Walter Goggins