The following is a story line that hit me as I was falling asleep. The current discusssion

The following is a story line that hit me as I was falling asleep. The current discusssion on time travel does make me want to delay posting until such time as it is resolved, but hay, waht the hell... Typos and mis-spellings I am sorry for. This is one of 4. the rest will be posted as requested by you readers... [][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][] The above mentioned has been [] Demetrius Pietz Federation propaganda. [] dpietz@gmuvax2.gmu.edu - Vortal Romlan High Command [] [][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][][] Time Lapse aka The Fall of the Federation. Captian's log. Stardate 9358.7. The Enterprise has suffered damage after pasing throught a worm hole like rift we were investigating. The ship has lost most of it's systems. Picard stood at the window in the meeting room. The heads of the department sat around the table actionsly awaiting any word. Picard sipped some tea, nibbled a nail and turned. "O.K What's our situation?", he fianaly asked. "Well, sir," Geordi started,"The ship has sustained damage to the warp drive, sensor arrays, communications, and various other minor systems. We're looking at several weeks work to repair it, If it can be repaired." "Understood,"replied Picard."Mister Data, have you yet determined where it is we are?" "Not at this monent, sir. With all the sensors down I can only give a crude estimation. My best assumption would be that we are 1.5 lightyears past the far point of the Klingon Empire." "Time to Federation space?" "Currently with only impulse power it would take a little over a year." "A year?" Riker interjected quite shocked. "Yes, sir. That is assuming we have no interuptions at full impulse power." "Well then," Picard noted,"A journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. We'll start back as soon as you are ready LaForge." "Yes, sir." The group got up to leave. After exchanging a few looks of disbelief they trickled out the door. Several hours later Geordi re-appered on the bridge. Picard and Riker were sitting, staring almost mindlessly at the view screen. Geordi walked up to them and after a few moments spoke up. "Sir, I've looked at the damage. And what I saw was not good." "Oh?,"asked Riker. "The damage to the warp engines is unrepairable. At least not out here. There is structual damage inside the warp nodules." "Are you saying we have to go back all the way on impulse power?", Riker seemed rather shaken. "Yes, sir. I am sorry." "It's alright, Geordi," remarked Picard, "What of everything else?" "Well, shields will be back up in a little while. The sensors are being recalibrated, they suffered no actual damage, just over loaded. The communications is another problem though." Picard and Riker didn't like the sound of that. "It would seem that we can send but are unable to recieve." "Well," Picard said,"transmit our location to Starfleet Command. Maybe they can send a ship." "Yes sir." Captain's log. Stardate 9452.6. We are now within 2 weeks of reaching Klingon Territory. Hopefully after a quick stop to repair the engines we can continue our return to Federation space. The closer we get the more actious the crew is becoming. I too find myself anticipating a chance to get off the ship if only for a few hours. I also find it very strange that no ship was ever sent. It is possible however that the damage to communications was unrepairable. "Sir," Data exlaimed, "Sensors are picking up something." "Way out here?" Riker asked. "Mister Worf, what is it?" "Catptain, It appears to be a Klingon science station. I am reading no life signs. It has what appears to be,"Worf paused,"battle damage." "Battle damage? On a science station? Out here?" With each inquiry Picard became a little more disbelieving. "Mister Data, do you have any explaination for why we are encountering a science station weeks before reaching Klingon space." "No sir. It would appear that I had misjudged our position." "Well then, It's here, we're here and are in need of parts. Number One, I want you to lead an away team over there. Acquire as much as possible to help restore our ship. I don't think the Klingons would mind." "Yes, sir. Data, Worf." "Mister LaForge" Picard said. "Yes, sir?" "Commander Riker is beaming over to the science station. I want you to join him in transporter room three." "On my way ,sir." The party materialized on the command center of the station. The station was in extreme disrepair. Loose wires hung from the rafters. A lone light blinked here and there. At once tricorders were opened and personal light switched on. Riker scanned the situation then tapped his communicator. "Captain?" "Yes, Number one." "This place is a mess. No bodies but a large amount of structural damage. It would appear that what ever did this was very careful to remove everything not nailed down." "Understood. Continue investigation." The away team continued to rummage through the debry. Geordi and Worf headed to the engeneering section. Data activated a station, looked at it almost confused, and then spoke. "Commander?" "Yes?" "I think you should look at this." Riker walked over to the display."What is it?" "I have found what would appear to be the personal logs. But there is a descrepincy." "Which is?" Riker did not need to be lead on like this. "The stardates on these logs are 120 years past what should be here." Geordi's voice came over the communicator."Commander?" "Yes?" "I've done a complete over view of engineering. The equipment here would rival the engines aboard the Enterprise. There's equipment here that should still be on the drawing board." "Record what you can and meet back at the Enterprise in 2 hours",Riker turned his attention to Data."Get what you can. I want to look around." "Do you think that wise, Commander?" "I don't see any problem." Riker turned to leave. Riker wandered into one of the personal quarters. After a quick search he found a book. What a book was doing on a science station he didn't know. Most stations now run entierly on computer files. He palmed the book and opened it. He looked over the first page. To his surprise he saw that it was a history book. With events that were happening only a year ago being cited as old history. Data's voice broke his concentration. "Commander we are ready to beam aboard the Enterpirse." "Be right there." He set the book down, hesitated than picked it up and hurried out the door. Back abourd the Enterprise the away team was being debriefed. "Sir", said Data,"It would appear that this station has been through a time warp. All evidence would point to the fact that the people living on board were living in the time indicated by the computer logs." "I would have to agree, sir."said Geordi,"There was equipment there that I had only seen before in prototype designs and rough sketches." "Ok. But what would cause the battle dammage?" "It is possable that the station was under attack when the time warp was formed." said, or barked, Worf. "That is true sir. We have seen that kind of thing before." "Very well. Mister LaForge are you now able to repair the Enterprise?" "Yes, sir. Using the station as a platform we will be able to carry out repairs." "Good. Set priority on communications and warp engines." Back on the bridge the crew sat waiting for repairs to be made. The calm of the hours slipped by. Then like a shot in the dark Worf spoke up. "Sir! Ship approching at high speeds." "On viewer." The screen blinked. There on the screen was a ship. "Magnify." "The screen blinked again. The ship was larger, more detail. It was much like a Federation design. Large saucer with engines protruding from the sides. "It regesters as no known design. But I would hypothisise that it is one of ours." "Agreed Mister Data. Worf, open hailing freqinces." "They are ignoring us. Sir the ships weapon systems are powering up." "Yellow alert. Shields up. Mister LaForge we may have to leave in a bit prepare to uncouple." "Yes, sir." "The ship is attempting lock on!" "Red alert! Evasive action! Worf try to get them to talk to us." "Sir they're fireing!" The alien ship let loose with a barage of emerald light. Just missing the Enterprise, they struck the station. The outer hull of the station was ripped appart. The resulting explosion knocked the Enterprise hard. "Arm photon torpedos. Prepare to fire. Bring us about." The Enterprise swung around to face the alien ship head on. "Fire!" The Enterprise fired a crimson blade throught the night. It hit square on the ship. The alien ships shield absorbed it easy. Following close behind was a barage of torpedos. Empacting on various parts of the shield, they looked much like flys caught on a windshield. "We did nothing to them!" Worf was most dipleased. "At ease, Mister Worf. Geordi, have we got warp speed?" "Yes, sir." "Plot course to reach the nearest starbase. Top speed, Engage!" The Enterprise turned again and left as quick as the engines would allow. The alien ship gave chase. "Sir,"said Worf,"The alien ship is following and closing." Explosions rocked the ship. "There fireing on us!" "Thank you Mister Worf, but I believe I could determine that. Prepare aft lauchtubes. Fire at will." Volly after volly raced back to the alien ship only to be brushed aside. More hits were scored against the Enterprise. "Brige this is Engeneering. We can't take this abuse. The shields are going to fail." "Sir, I am now registering another ship coming into sensor range." "Great."remarked Riker,"Just what we need." "Sir." "What is it Data?" "The new ship is registering as a Klingon frigate." More hits rock the Enterprise. "Options people, I need them now." "We could jettision some of the anti-matter bottles. Allow them to come in contact with the pursuing ship." "Agreed Data. LaForge, I need you to jettison four anti-matter containers for a delayed detonation." "As you wish sir." Another hit on the Enterprise. The ship slowed. "What happened?" "It's the warp engines sir. They're down again." "Damn. Launch the anti-matter." The universe held its breath. The four lone containers sailed through space. Then erupted into a blaze of fury. "Sir the alien ship has been seriously damaged. No shields, and internal damage to weapons and hull." "Sir, the Klingon ship is approaching." "Steady everyone." "Sir it is passing us by. It is going after the other ship." The small ship closed on the massive alien war ship. After a few pop shots by the alien, the Klingon ship fired into the weakened alien vessel. Hull breaches acoured across the saucer and along the secondary hull. One warp engine was totaly destroyed, taking with it several pieces of the ship. Another engine was blown off. It floated off and impacted with the saucer section. After a few minutes of this turkey shoot the Klingon vessel backed off. "Sir," said Worf," We are being hailed." "On screen." The screen flickered. On the other side was a view of the Klingon ship. The crew consisted of a mish mash of diffrent races from all over the Federation. One of the figures, a vulcan, stood and walked forward. "Greetings." "Greetings." replied Picard. "I am Sedo, captain of the rebelion fleet ship Parthaw. You have been identified as a Galaxy class starship of the old Federation. Your presence here is most intriguing." "Silence viewscreen." "Old Federation?" asked Riker. "Sir," said Data turning around, "If what he said is true it would explain much." "Such as?" "It would indicate that the station is not out of time. But we are." --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Part 2 The Enterprise sat in space. Across from it sat a small Klingon ship. About them lay the rubble of a science station and an alien ship. The Enterprise bridge crew is in shock. For the first time they realize what has happened. They have traveled forward in time about 150 years. "Re-open communications." Picard got his bearings," Captain Sedo, I am captain Picard of the starship Enterprise. We have a few questions." "Such as?" asked the Vulcan. "We are interested in your term 'Old Federation'." "Surely you know." Sedo paused," It is best that we don't talk over sub-space. We have a place where this conversation can take place. If you will follow us." "Agreed. Picard out." "Sir," said Worf in his typical warrior fashion, "I do not trust them." "Noted. Even so they are the key to understanding what's going on. Ensign, match speed with the Klingon ship." The two ships left. Side by side they slid through the night. After a hour they came upon a rather large planet. The Klingon ship dived at the planet. To the bridge crews amazement the planet surface opened much like a large hanger. "Follow them in." The Enterprise entered the hagner. The masave doors swung shut behind them. The interior was well lit. Ships of all description were docked here and there. Most no larger that a scout, all with damage of one kind or another. After finding a place to dock the bridge crew contacted the Klingon ship. "I'm glad to see you fit." said Sero," It would of been a shame to leave your ship outside. If you would please come shore we'll have a chance to explain." Picard, Riker, Worf, LaForge, Data, and a small host of others walked down the air lock. Once passed the doors they were greeted by an escort to the meeting room. "Nice place you got here," opened Riker. Across the room sat Sero, a Klingon, and a Romulan. Worf was not to happy about the latter and made his discomfort noticeable. "Please sit down." said Sero,"this is Keron,"pointing at the Klingon,"and Teri." the Romulan. "This is Riker my first officer, Worf, LaForge, and Data." "Let me first begin by explaining what has happened," began Sero," about 50 years back. Star Fleet Command recieved a sub-space message from the Romulans asking our help." "My people," broke in Teri," were under attack." "By whom?" inquired Data. "They called them selves the Polter. We had been in combat against them for 20 years before we asked Star Fleet's help. They are a very resourceful race. They use everything they get a hold of." "Well anyway," resumed Sero," The Federation sent a ship to investigate the request. A month later it returned, docked at Star Fleet Command Head Quarters and self-destructed. The explosion destroyed the entire complex. Star Fleet was in chaos. Two days latter we recieved reports that Romulan war birds were attacking outposts. Followed shortly by the Poltar ships. They had a collection of ships from half the galaxy that had been upgraded to their standards. Fifteen years later they reached the Klingon border. The Klingons, along with a handful of remaining Federation ships fought a loosing battle. For the past 23 years there is only a handful of resistance outposts left. We are out manned, out gunned, and out equiped." "Quite a story. I'm interested though. How did you keep in contact and still keep your positions secret?" "Well for starters all our bases are similar to this. Federation starbases build into dead planetoids. The rock shields their sensors. To comunicate we use drop off points, targets that had already been hit that would not be suspected. we were on our way to pick up a message from the science station when we encountered you." "What did this message entail?" "We have informants in the field. This message was going to be the details needed to attack the Poltar central communication relay. Without that information we have no chance to find it, let alone destroy it." "Our away team was able to down load much of the data out of the computers before it was destroyed. Maybe we have the information you require." "It wasn't in the computers. Field agents use written communication. It was in a old style book." "Did you say a book?" Riker was now interested. "Yes. An old manuscript that recorded all the moves made by the Poltar fleet." "I may just have that. I picked it up when I was over there to study latter." "We may still have a chance then. May we see the book?" "It's onboard right now but I can get it as soon as we are through." "Very well. If that's all then I shall see you people later." "Feel free to use any of the services here to repair your ship. from the old specks I have seen we could use such a ship. Even if it is out dated." The resistance delegation got up to leave. As they left Riker turned to Picard. "Captain, how much of this do you think we can believe?" "At the moment, Number One, all of it. We are here and so are they." "You're right. But I don't like the idea of thinking that the Federation has fallen. And the Enterprise being out dated?" "It is a bit much I agree." "Sir." injected Worf, "I do not trust them. Klingons do not hide inside planets." "Sir.",said Data who had been, up to now, quiet,"Do you think it is right that we should be here? Now that we know where and when we are should we not try to return to our own time?" "What are you sugesting Mister Data?" "I am suggesting that we try to return to our own time." "But if what they say is true,"remarked Geordi," then wouldn't we be better off here? If the Federation is doomed to fall I don't want to be caught in the middle." "Those are some good arguments. We'll take thing one step at a time. First we need to repair the Enterprise. Then we'll worry about where, or when, to go." Captian's log suplemental. The Enterprise is currently undergoing repairs in a subterranian starbase. It has been determined that we have been thrown forward through time aproximately 150 years. In this century the Federation, Romulan Empire, and Klingon empire have fallen to an invading race known as the Poltar. repairs should be completed in six hours. I then face a difficult decision; return to our time and try to prevent this, or stay here and help in the resistance movement. Data and Teri are in a section on engeneering working on a console. "I am curious." notes Data," Why did it take you so long to ask the Federation for help? If you communicated earlier I am sure the invasion could have been halted." "The Romulans are, or were, a very proud race. By the time we asked we knew it was over." Teri pauses to reflect, pulls himself together and continues," I am surprised this antique still works." "The Enterprise is only a few years out of space dock. It is the Federation's most advanced ship." "I'm sorry it's just that the technology used by you is now mostly out dated by our standards." "Then it would be able to further enhance the Enterprise if we incorporated your technology into the damaged systems." "Are you contemplating engaging the Poltar?" "Captain Picard has not yet made a decision in that respect. But if he wishes to do so we should be on equal levels with the current technology." Across the ship a similer conversation is being conducted between Picard and Seri. "Then you won't stay?" "My decision has not yet been made." "We could really use a ship such as this. It could give us the edge we need." "What guarantee can you give me that your raid will be successful? How can I be sure that my ship, out dated by your standards, won't be destroyed in the attack?" "I'm afraid I can give no assurances" said Seri in an almost cold tone, "Fact of the matter is I don't think we could get it done if your ship was up to our standards." "You're asking me to risk my ship on a hunch? a hope?" I am sorry, but I can not do that." At that moment Riker entered the bridge. He carried with him a small leather bound book. He paused, handed the book to Seri and seated him self. "I believe that is what you were looking for." "Why yes it is." said Seri opening the book to look over the precious information. "Sir, LaForge reports that repairs are nearly complete. Data has mentioned to me the idea of upgrading our systems to match this times technology. I gave him the go-ahead." "Very well, Number One." Picard adjusted himself, "Number One? What would you think of staying here and joining the fight?" "I've given that a lot of thought, sir. And I believe that we should try to return. We don't belong here." "I agree." turning to Seri,"I'm sorry but we will be leaving at first chance." Seri looks disappointed, stands and leaves the bridge. "Mister LaForge, prepare to be under way as soon as posable." "Yes sir, we should be ready to leave within the hour." "Ensign, plot a corse to return us to the point at which we came out of the time warp. Mister Data," he said into the entercom,"will you meet me in my ready-room?" "On my way, sir." Five minutes latter Data entered Picards ready-room. PIcard, lost in thought stood at the window. "Mister Data," he finaly said," I need to know if it will be possible to return the ship to our correct time. I am not planning on staying here any longer than necessary." "I have thought about it, sir, and I have theorised that it would be possible to recreate the situation that caused the time jump. It will require a close connection between the warp field generators and the shield which, I hope, will..." "Data." he said cutting him off," Just work on it." "Yes, sir." With final preparations almost complete Picard called a last meeting to go over final details of the attempt. "Ok, people. When we go through this what could we expect?" "Well, sir," said LaForge," I would assume much of the same that happened the first time. We'll lose most of the systems and sustain structual damage." "That is not necessarily so Commander." said Data. "What do you mean?" inquired Picard. "We have been able to incorporate much of the current technology into our ship." "What exactly does this intail?" "Our shields have been increased by 300 percent. Our top speed has been increased to warp 13. Weapon systems are up by 150 percent in power and range. Navigation and sensors have been enhanced to twice their original peformance level. I could continue." "No Mister Data. That is sufficient." "Well if that's all I propose we get this over with. All hands prepare for time warp." The Enterprise glided through the night. It was unaware of the ship following close behind. "Captain, these are the co-ordinates." "All stop." "Answering all stop, sir" "Any time your ready Geordi." "Preparing start up now, sir." The ship began to rock and sway in a very violent way. "Commander LaForge. What's happening?" "I have no idea, sir. But I do know it's not engineering." "Captain, sensors indicate we are in a tractor beam." "Raise shields! Red alert. Give me a visual." The screen flashed alive. There behind the ship was Poltar enhanced Klingon warbird. It had a strong hold on the aft section. "Sir, sensors indicate that weapon systems on the enemy ship are charging." "Commander LaForge, can you instigate the time jump?" "Yes, sir. But we can't break this tractor." "Sir," said RIker," Maybe the saucer section can get through. If the beam is only holding the aft section..." "Agreed. All hands prepare for saucer separation. All non-essential personnel to the saucer. Will, I want you to command it. Get to Star Fleet, tell them what's happening, or rather what will happen." "You can count on me, sir" The brige crew filed out to the battle bridge. "Riker we're ready when you are." "Yes, sir. Disengaging." The saucer section slipped slowly off the secondary hull. Heading towards the time rift. Then a large ominous figure appeared to the right. It was another ship approching fast. "Sir, another Poltar ship is approching, on an intercept course with the saucer section!" "Hail them Mister Worf. Challenge them if you have to but keep them away from the saucer section!" "Sir, the saucer section is entering the rift." "Sir, the second ship is firing on the saucer section!" All was silent. Emerald beams of light split either side of the saucer section. A volley of points of light rained on the slow moving target. Holes and crators appeared on the hull. Then in a single second the saucer exploded!! -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Picard and the bridge crew sat and watched the saucer section as it exploded. An unearthly light filled the battle bridge. Although in emotional shock over the loss of nearly 1000 people and his first officer, Picard still mannaged to keep his composure. "Mister Worf fire all phasers at the ship holding us! Mister Data, prepare to for warp speed as soon as the tractor beam is cut!" His voice rang out, a little madder than normally. Deep within him a slow hate began to build. He was going to make the Poltar pay. If not for the Federation then for the innocent families aboard the saucer. Sacrlet beams slammed into the Poltar ship. "Sir," said Data," their shields are starting to give." "Fire again, Mister Worf!" A second volly was sent. This one sliced through the Poltar shield and into the ship itself. The Poltar commander in such shock over seeing such an old vessel fire with such force, could do nothing. The phaser beam ripped through the hull of the ship. Bits of molted plaser, steel, and the occasional body part flew through the ship. The beam hit the bridge. The Poltar commander, still in shock, could do nothing but stare as it hit him square. Smoke and sparks flew through the ship. Air that had once been held tight by the ship's shell was let loose. Explosive de-compression ripped away several decks and levels. Following close behind the phasers were a volly of photon torpedos. Impacting at various points of the ship they took the ship apart like a jigsaw-puzzle suddenly being dropped. "Sir ", Data said," tractor beam has been broken." "Data, go! Warp 10! Take us back to the starbase." "Aye, sir. Warp 10." The Enterprise turned and fled into the night. The Enterprise neared the covered starbase. The ship slowed and fell into orbit. "Hail them Mister Worf." "Aye, sir. They are answering." "Sir ", said Data," are we not going to return to our correct time?" "No, Mister Data! We are here and we are going to fight!" Data flashed Worf a very confused look. "Mister Worf, put the transmission through." The screen flicked alive. A very surprised Sero was looking at them. "Captain Picard ", he said," I thought you would be long gone by now." "As you can see, we are still here. The situation has changed. We are prepared to help in the resistance." "Help is always welcome. We will open the hanger doors to alow you to enter." "Thank you." Data turned to face Picard. "Sir, may I ask-" "No, Mister Data! No may not ask! This is NOT a discussion." Picard got up, walked slowly to the turbolift. In a soft voice he made his last statment for the day. "Mister Data you have the bridge. I'll...", he braced himself up with his hand, "I'll be in my quarters." "Aye, sir ", said Data not wanting to press the conversation. Picard leaned and half fell into the turbolift. Data moved to the captain's chair. Re-opening communications he addressed the starbase. "Sero, we are ready to dock." Data and Geordi stood in engeneering. The hum of the warp reactor and engines drowing out their low voices. They keeped to themselves, not talking when people walked by. "Are you sure Data?" "I am. The captain is being himself. If he continues I believe it will cause great harm to the ship and crew." "So what are you saying? That we should take command?" "I am saying that he should be prevented from making any rash decisions that would place the ship in jepordy." "If he is removed from command that puts you in charge." "I am well aware of that. However I see no other choices open at this point." "Do what you think must be done Data." Picard sat on his bed. One leg on the floor the other propped up. His arm covered his forehead as he stared at the ceiling. He said nothing, barely breathing. Then there was the familiar call at the door. "Come." Picard sat up, fixed his outfit, and tried to look serious. "Hope I'm not intruding." It was Troi. "No not at all ",said Picard. Great, he thought, just what I need a shrink. "I feel that you may be taking things a little hard. You don't seem youself." "Is that what your telepathic powers tell you, counselor? That I'm taking things a little hard? In the past few days I have lost nearly 1000 people, half my ship, my first officer. The Federation is GONE! I've been out gunned, out manned, and out equiped by a new race trying to kill me! AND YOU TELL ME I'M TAKING IT A LITTLE HARD!!?" Picard collapses from exhaustion. He falls face first onto the bed. Then after shaking it off stands again. A little more rational. "My appoligies, counselor. I did not want to take it out on you." "Maybe you should just get some rest. I'll check back in a few hours." "Thank you counselor." Troi exits. Picard very quickly returns to his bed. He falls such that it could be heard in the hall. A concerned Troi hurries down the hall. Data sat in his quarters. If he had emotions he would of hated what he now had to do. He thought a little more and tapped the intercom. "Geordi, Troi, Worf, and Doctor Crusher, please meet me in the captain's ready-room." He released the intercom. Then almost as an after thought he activated the computer. "Computer. Where is captain Picard?" "The captain is in his quarters." replied the synthetic voice. "Good. Seal off the room and fill it with Nitrous Oxide Data walked out the door. He continued down the hall at a quickened pace and arrived shortly at the meeting room. He steped in. The others had already made it there and were waiting for him to arrive. Geordi and Worf sat across from each other at the far end of the table. Doctor Crusher sat across from Troi nearer the head of the table. Data being the acting captain took the head of the table. With calm composure he began. "I am sure you know why we are here?" He asked not expecting a response," The Captain is not being himself. I therefore suggest that we relieve him until such time as he is fit to return to command." "I do not agree. I feel no reason to remove the Captain." said Worf, not at all happy with the idea. "But you saw him, Worf", said Geordi," He is not acting normal. He's come close to losing it all together." "Commander LaForge is right to some degree. The strain of the past few days has pushed the Captain almost to the breaking point. The death of Riker and the crew may have done considerable damage to him." "Than you agree with me, counseler?" "Yes, Data I do." "Where is the Captain now?" asked Crusher, who had been quiet up till now. "He is in his room. I have sealed it off and filled it with an anesthesizing gas. I did not want him to hurt himself or the crew by his irrational actions." "Well", said Geordi," Since you're in command, what is it that you think we should do?" "I believe it is in the best interest of the the ship and crew that we attempet to return to our own time." After going over the exacting details the meeting was ended. Worf and Data returned to the battle bridge. Geordi returned to engineering. Crusher to sick bay, and Troi stopped by Picards room. Troi stood out side the room. "Computer ", she said, "what is the condition of the Captains quarters?" "The quarters are currently filled with anesthesizing agent five. 45 parts per million." "Discontinue. Return environmental conditions so normal. Keep the door sealed." After explaining the conditions to Sero, Data took the Enterprise out of the starbase and set in a heading back towards the rift point. The ship had been underway for about a hour before Picard came staggering onto the bridge. He was clearly not himself. He twitched, leaned, and had problems walking. He was also carrying a phaser on his belt. He stopped in front of Data. "Commander Data, I hereby relieve you." "Sir ", said Data," I do not believe you are in any condition to return to command. Therefore I refuse to turn over command to you at this time." "Data ", said Picard in a nice voice, " this is my ship and I plan to be in command." His voice grew angerier with each word. "No, Sir. You are not fit for command." Picard was now very upset. He took a step back and drew the phaser. "This is my ship!", he yelled," You will not deny me my command!" "Sir if you continue like this I will be forced to -" He never finished the statment. Picard fired on Data. The setting could not kill Data, but it was able to render him inactive. Worf, not believing his captains actions, jumped over the console; hitting Picard and knocking the phaser from his hand. A hand struggle began and Picard quickly fell. "Bridge to sick bay", said Worf," medical emergancy. That captain has been hurt, and Data is down." "On our way." In only a few moments Doctor Crusher ran onto the bridge. Followed shortly after by Geordi. Crusher, who had quickly run a full scan of the captain, said that she had to get him to sick bay. Geordi, doing much the same for Data, concluded that all repairs would have to be done from engeneering. "But a ship can not be without its captain ", protested Worf. "It looks like you're in charge now ", said Geordi as he took the damaged Data off the bridge. Worf moved around to the captain's chair. He was noticeably not happy over the quick change in command. The Doctor and Geordi had been gone only a few minutes before disaster struck. "Sir ", said an ensign," we are reciving a report from the starbase. They are under attack." Worf mumbled something under his breath. "Change course to return to the starbase. Sound red alert. Phasers and photons ready. Increase to best possible speed." The day was not going well. Within the hour the Enterprise arrived at the starbase and sure enough the base was under attack. Five large Poltar ships had taken up a position around the base. The bases small ships and fighters were of little help against the war ships. Continual vollies of phaser fire were shot back and forth. The small fighters swerved in close; firing at point blank range. Only to have their shots deflected and the ships destroyed. A few had even resulted in kamakazi-like dives into the Poltar shields. Explosions lit up the darkness of space. Rainbows of light stretched from one ship to another. Worf was one pissed Star Fleet officer. "Helm, take us to the far side. Lock all weapons on the first and second ships. Extend shields 10 meters. Transporter room, as we pass by I want as many time delayed torpedos as you can get beamed as far as possible. We cann't drop shields so they will have to be placed inside. Notify the base that we have arrived." The first pass went well. Almost like poetry. As the Enterprise circled It fired on two of the attacking ships. The transported torpedos detonated just outside the shields. Taking with them large chunks of the Poltar ships. There was no longer any doubt that the Enterprise was there. "We must draw them away from the starbase. We can not risk harming the base." Worf was in his element. "Sir, now reading four more ships approching." "Distance?" "Just now entering the system. ETA about 30 minutes." "Helm, plot a course close to the systems asteriod belt. Ready full power to the tractor beams. As we pass I want you to grab as many as you can. Then head towards the incoming group." "Aye, sir." The helmsman was not to sure about this idea. The Enterprise neared the belt. And with the ease of grabbing crackers out of a soup bowl, snared several asteriods. The Enterprise then turned to face the oncoming threat. "Increse speed to full impulse. On my mark release the asteriods and drop back behind them. Ready... NOW!" The scene from the Poltar ship must have been amazing. An out of date ship heading near full speed towards out numbering forces. Then to drop back behind a swarm of asteriods on a collision course. The Poltar commander was impressed to say the least. "Sir, Poltar formation breaking up." "Fire a single photon into the middle of the asteriods. Timer delay." The Torpedo was sent flying. Just inside the mass of rocks the torpedo exploded. Sending asteriods every where. Much like a primitive shotgun. Poltar ships that were not ready for it were hit bad. One ship was destroyed completely. Another two were severly damaged. Only one escaped unharmed. "Helm, lock weapons on the undamaged ship. Prepare for Picard maneuver. Now." The Enterprise was, if only for a brief second, in two places at once. The Poltar comander took one fatal moment too long to deside which was which. A moment that he would not live to regret. The other two crippled ships advanced on the Enterprise. They flanked to either side and fired. The Enterprise caught in the middle took massive amounts of punishment. Unfortunatly for the Poltar the Enterprise could dish out as much as it could take. After a brief few moments the other two ships were no more. "Change course to return to the starbase. Prepare for a high warp jump on my mark. Bring us in course three five seven mark nine." "But sir that will put us right in the middle of it." "I know ensign. Just do it. And be ready for that jump if you are planing to live." The Enterprise came to rest between the two larger ships. "Sir, they are locking on phasers. Sir, they are preparing to fire." "GO NOW!!" The Poltar ships fired. Just as the barrage neared the Enterprise the Enterprise warped out. The phasers missed the Enterprise all together. The weapons impacted with the other ships. The Poltar had for all intensive purposes shot each other. The Enterprise ran out a few kilometers and turned. The two damaged ships were jumped by the remaining resistance ships. The third turned and ran; not wishing to suffer a similer fate. "Helm, take us back to the starbase. Prepare to dock." "Aye, sir" --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Enterprise sat quietly in the hanger. On the battle bridge the bridge crew was getting things organized for the raid on the Poltar station. Picard sat at his command chair quietly listening to the details of what had transpired after the explosion of the saucer section. "I have a hard time beliveing that I did that." "Well sir, you were out of sorts. But it's good to have you back." "It's good to be back." The conversation was interupted by a transmission. "All ship captains please report to the briefing room." the signal said. "Well I guess that's me. If you all will excuse me." Picard got up and left. He walked quickly and calmly to the briefing room. Ariving he adjusted his uniform and walked in. "Gentelmen, time has come to strike back at the Poltar. We have obtained the needed information from our ageints in the field. Now the station is located in sector 14. It has a complement of three ships. Two frigates and one light battle cruiser. As well it has a battery of four phasers. I want to send two ships against it. The rest of us will proceed at low warp to the Poltar headquarters. If all goes well the station will be taken out prior to our arival at the Poltar base. The ships assigned to the station are the Enterprise and the Kalthow. After the station is destroyed they are to meet us at the base to help in the attack. If they are unable to destroy the station then there won't be anyone to meet at the base." "If there are no questions than be set to launch in three hours." The Federation ship Enterprise and Romulan Kalthow sailed into the blackness of space. "Mister Worf, keep a close look on the sensors." "Aye sir." "Now entering sector 14 sir." "Thank you mister Data. Mister Worf..?" "There is nothing here sir! It must be a trick!" "Raise the Kalthow." "Aye sir." "Kalthow, this is the Enterprise, it would seem that our quarry is not here." "So it would seem...." "Sir, a large object is uncloaking!" "Shields up! On screen mister Data." The main viewer blinked. Then showed an aft view of the Enterprise. Even farther a large shape was fading in. As it took a more solid form four green lances of light spread out from the station. The phasers impacted with the Enterprise. The ship rocked violently as warning lights lit up all over. "Kalthow it would appear our target is present." Another volly hit the Romulan ship breaking communication. "Mister Worf, return fire full spread. Direct all unneeded energy into the shields. Shields and weapons systems have top priority. LaForge bring us around, get the station in a 90 degree cross fire." The Enterprise slid around the station. The Romulan ship began to fire repeated barrages of plasma torpedos and phasers that errupted into a violent dance apon the stations shields. Long arcs of ruby light hit the stations shield straining them even further. And volly after volly of photons peppered the area like fireflies. "Mister Worf, any sign of the stations complement ships?" "Not yet, sir." "Sir, the station shields are starting to fail." "Good, increse phaser intensity and prepare an anti-matter spread." The station tried desperatly to fend off the two ships. The Poltar phasers fired maddly back and forth between the two ships. The shield glowed and strained under the force of the weapons. Then like an egg in a vice it gave way. The phasers were now able to hit the station. The two vollies crashed thorugh the collapsed shield and hit the station hard. The uppermost levels were destroyed instantly. Molten steel and air bled out into the void of space. A plasma shot hit and enveloped most of the station. The outer layers were burnned away. Crewmen from the station were blown, silently screaming, into space. "Sir, now reading two ships approching from starboard." "Bring us around. Prepare to fire." The Enterprise swung around to meet the new threat. As they came to bear on the ships the Enterprise was hit full force by both vessels. Explosions rocked the ship. Sub-systems burnt out and the bridge filled with the unmistakable smell of electrical fires. "Mister Worf, fire. Full anti-matter spread as well. LaForge bring us around to 134 mark 8, increase to warp 4. Mister Data reroute damaged systems." The Enterprise slid out to gain a better vantage point. The Kalthow, after finishing off the station proper, also turned to face the new ships. Phasers from the Romulan ship lept into space. They slid and crackled down the sides of the Poltar shields. The Enterprise released a mass of anti-matter that filled the sky like fireworks. The bits of anti-matter hit the first Poltar ship square. The Enterprise followed up with a burst of phaser fire. The phaser shattered and passed through the badly damaged shield and severed a nacell from the ship. The Poltar ship sputtered sparks then spun out of control into the charred remains of the station. The resulting explosion threw all three remaining ships back. The second Poltar ship had turned its attention to the Romulan. A mistake on its part. The Romulans, in the thrill of the fight, launched a concert of plasma torpedos and phasers. The combination hit and tore the Poltar ship apart. "Damage report mister Data." "Minor damage to secondary hull and navigation sub-systems." "Sick bay reports no casulties." "Status of the Kalthow?" "Sensors report field fluctuations on her shield as well as damage to her weapons systems." "Sir, third Poltar ship appearing behind the Kalthow!" "Is the Kalthow taking any action?" "Negative sir. I don't believe they seem them!" "Mister Data warn the Kalthow!" "I am unable to raise them sir." "Poltar ship weapons are powering up...they have lock on the Kalthow!" "Lock all weapons on the Poltar ship! Prepare to fire!" "Unable to sir. Interferance from the Kalthows shield fluctuations is making lock impossable." "Sir they are firing!" "Fire phasers at the Poltar ship!" "But sir we are unable to lock on..." "Take a good guess mister Worf!" The Poltar ship phased in. The blind Kalthow just sat there. Then in a blinding fury the Poltar released its full arsenal unmercifuly. The explosions threw the Kalthow like a rag toy. The final jolt threw it into the Enterprises weapons meant for the Poltar ship. The accidental shot ripped through the Kalthow engineering section. The matter/anti-matter chamber exploded like a small nova. The Poltar ship turned into the night on a direct course for the Headquarters station. The trailing engine lights followed the ship in a mad chase to catch up. "Sir the Poltar ship is on a direct course with the Resistance fleet." "Alert the fleet." "I am unable, captain. The radiation from the Kalthow's explosion is preventing transmission." "Must be why they're in such a hurry. Going to send their message in person." "Agreed mister LaForge." No one had even noticed his arrival on the bridge. But the conversation flowed so evenly to include him. "Well mister LaForge, let's see just how well the new speed holds out. Maximum warp after the Poltar ship. They must not reach their destination." "Aye, sir ready to engage warp drive." "Mister Data, engage." The crew could almost feel the ship as it lunged forward; reaching speeds that had previously been thought impossible. Stars streaked past. The g-forces that couldn't be adjusted for by normal systems sucked the crew into their seats. For the briefest of moments it reminded Picard of the old Earth roller coasters. "Sir, we are now able to transmit a message to the fleet." "Do so, mister Data." "Distance to Poltar ship?" "About 500,000 kilometers. And they are pulling away." "What's our speed?" "Now reading warp 13.25." "Time to fleet?" "About 2 hour 12 minutes." The Enterprise ran headlong into the unknown. Time ticked by. A combination of anticipation and fear filled the ship. Picard sat in his command chair. His eyes stareing into the screen; watching the stars fly by. His fingers tapped out the slow rythem of his heart beat. Then a dot appeared. It was small, almost unseen. As they got closer it became larger. This small dot in the middle of space, just sitting there, slowly nudged the bridge crew out of their state of daydreaming that the stars haad placed them in. Then like a waterfall the activity level shot up. "Sir now reading an object dead ahead." "Identify it please mister Data." "It would appear to be one of the resisstance fleet's ships." "Life signs?" "None." "Sir," said Worf, "I am now reading several more ships and debris. And I am also reading several destroyed Poltar ships in the area." "Slow to warp 3." "Aye sir, warp 3." "How far are we from the Poltar headquarters?" "We are 4.35 parsecs away." "Alert the fleet tell them we are on our way." "Aye sir." "Resume course and speed." The Enterprise slid away from the broken ships. A cold draft sweeped through the battle bridge. The draft was so soft that even Data seemed to shiver just the slightest bit. As if breaking into a crowded room the Enterprise was suddenly surounded by all sorts of ships. Like a crowded night at a disco, ships danced around one another, lights filled the sky. For a brief moment it looked like a New Years Eve party. Then a hit shock the Enterprise. "Mister Data, full power to shields. Mister Worf, target the nearest Poltar ship, fire when ready. Helmsman, bring us around to 735 mark 8." The Enterprise swung into the fray like a car into L.A. rush hour. They came in below and behind a Poltar ship. Worf's fingers flew over the control pad. Phasers lept from the Enterprise and sliced the ship like a roast. Worf reaimed and fired again at another ship. This one was lucky and survived the hit, but not before surrendering the upper levels of the hull. It was like shooting ducks in a barrel. A Poltar phaser rippled over the Enterprise's shields. Well maybe not, these ducks shot back. "Sir shields are at 89% and dropping." "Understood LaForge. Divert power from everywhere needed. Shut down all unused sections." "Sir two Poltar gunboats have dropped in behind us." "Bring us around to 635 mark 3, increase speed." "They are following and closing.", said Worf as he lauched a few photons aft, keeping the main phasers trained on the ships before them." "Mister Data, readings on that damaged freighter." "Readings indicate a cargo of tri-nethaltien, an old style solid propellant used by the Klingons. No life signs." "Mister Worf target that freighter. Fire a single photon to timed detonation when the gunboats pass it." "Aye sir, torpedo away." The lone torpedo sailed from the ship. It slowed and dove at the freighter. Then seconds later the Poltar ship flew over the freighter. The torpedo detonated. The fireball consumed the two gunboats. The shock wave rocked the Enterprise. Then as the wave dissipated another explosion hit the ship." "Mister Worf, damage report." "Coming in sir. Decks three through nine report damage to the outer and inner hulls. Hull breach reported on decks five and nine. Shields are at 27% and falling." "Decompress decks five and nine. Move all personel to the inner decks. Divert all power except for life support to forward shields." "Aye sir." "Bring us with in 300 kilometers of the base." "But sir at that range we will be unable to withstand the bases firepower." "Understood mister Data, just do it." "Aye, sir 250 kilometers and closing." The Enterprise inched forwards. The base, not seeing the Enterprise as any threat shot only pop shots at it. The few phaser strikes weakend the forward shield. "We are now within 300 kilometers of the base, sir." "Good. Full power to all phasers, lauch full volly of photon torpedos in concert with anti-matter spread. Prepare to evacuate ship." The last bit of that command worried the bridge crew. The Enterprise lashed out with a full spread. The base's shields glowed a sick green under the punishment. The Poltars now understanding the problem returned fire full force. "Sir front shield dropping!" "Understood. Alert the crew get everyone off the ship. Mister Worf set the weapon systems to automated firing; full barrage every two seconds. Everyone to transporter room 5. Alert O'Brian that we are on our way." The bridge crew ran out of the room as over loaded systems exploded. The navigation and Operations pannels exploded in small fireballs. Worf, Data, and Geordi waited for the captain in the transporter room. O'Brian stood behind the control pannel as calm as one could expect to be with your ship falling appart. Moments later Picard came into the room carrying 5 phaser riffles. "Everyone on the pad. O'Brian tie in the transporter to the sensors. When the Poltar shields drop activate the beam." "We are going to the Poltar base sir?" asked Data. "That's right. We're going to do this upclose and personal" said Picard as he handed out the weapons. "I hope this works." said O'Brian as he finished up the tie in and joined them on the pad, pushing by Worf who was looking at the rifle like a long lost love. "We shall know in a few moments." And they waited. The next few seconds seemed like an eternity. The Enterprises shield finally gave way. The Poltar phasers ripped through the ship like butter. The right nacell exploded sending shrapnel into the void. Long deep gashes appeared down the sides of the engineering section. The wounded Enterprise continued the assault. Like an insect that didn't know it was dead, it continued to fire photons and phasers every few seconds. The main phaser banks melted down causing a chain reaction blowing most of the systems on the ship. A hull breach ripped the shuttle bay apart and the explosive decompression took the deck out. Crew that hadn't made it to the earlier shuttles died. Bodies exploded as they went; painting the hallways red. Fire shot through the turbolifts chasing the last of the oxygen. An explosion was heard in the weapons room just the other side of the wall. The explosion ripped the wall down. Heat and fire dove at the figures on the transporter pad. "My god," said Picard,"We didn't make..." The transporter took affect. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Picard and company appeared on the Poltar base. The walls were a pale yellow with grey highlights. The room was extremely big and looked like it was build to hold shuttle craft or a small ship. Worf instantly powered up the rifle as did Picard, only a little more slowly. Taking that as a cue the rest of the party did likewise. The group could feel and hear the rest of the resistance fleet as it fired on the base. "Data, Laforge, using the Federation starbases as a reference where would you say is the main reactor room located?" "Well" said LaForge looking around," I would gess this would be around deck 25. The reactor on Federation starbases is located around deck 79." "Captain, it may be possable for me to access the base's computer to determine the exact location." "What do we do when we find it?" asked O'Brian. "Shut it down?" "No Chief O`Brian. We are going to blow it up." "But sir" said Worf,"how do you intend to get back out?" "We're not Worf. When the Enterprise exploded this became a one way trip." The rest of the party exchanged looks. "The door is this way." Picard said as he walked towards it. The rest followed. As they neared the door it didn't slide open to let them pass. "It could be locked" sugested Geordi. "Or programed to accept our lifeforms as someting that it needs to open for." "Maybe," said Picard lifting the rifle, "it just needs some encouragement." A blast lept from the end of the barrell the door disintigrated in a blast of heat. Re-shouldering the weapon Picard continued out into the hallway. "Seems open to me." he mentioned. Out it the hallway the activity of the base became more apparent. Alarms could be heard ringing all over. A young Poltarian officer came around the corner. He was decked in a blue outfit. His, if if it was indeed a 'he', skin was a glossy blue scales. His eyes were gold. On his side he wore a hand phaser and a large sword, most probably for decoration. Apon seeing the group he reached blindly for his phaser, that was securly fastened to his belt. Worf reacted in kind, bringing the rifle around. A whine was heard and the headless Poltar body slumped to the floor. Searching the body Picard and Worf recovered a coded key and a new phaser. Picard turned to Data and hadded him the card."Take this at first chance get into one of the computers." "Sir," said Geordi,"I am detecting strong energy readings to the left. They appear much like phaser emissions from a ship phaser." "From the inside or outside?" "Coming from the base outwards." "That's the way we go." Picard set off at a light jog towards the left. He was followed closely by Worf and then Data, Geordi, and last O'Brian, who couldn't understand when he got drafted. As they ran down the hall the sound of the phaser banks grew. They stopped at a door. Data quickly slid the key through the manual lock. A few seconds later it opened. Picard and Worf rushed in firing at the three men who manned the bank. One was disintigrated instantly, the other was split in two at the waist. Data and Geordi followed into the room. Data sat at the console and began to attept to access. O'Brian stood at the door keeping watch. Data's eyes never blinked as the screen flashed numbers, letters, and charts in the alian language. Geordi was also busy scanning the equipment used in the room. Worf seeing yet a bigger gun, sat at the controls and targeted the the phaser bank. After getting somewhat used to the controls through trial and error, he began to look for the firing button. On his third try he found it. A lance of energy arched into the night, striking one of the many Poltar ship protecting the base. "Captain," said Data getting up from the console,"the main reactor is on deck 85 section C5. It is currently unguarded. No men have been assiagned to it." "Good work Data. You deserve a raise. How do we get there from here?" "It would take to long to say,"said Data, who coulden't figure out why his captain would raise him,"I will have to show you." "Lead on Data." Data looked quickly bothways down the hall. Then darted to the right. Picard was second out the door, right in front of O'Brian. Worf and Geordi were the last two. Worf paused only long enough to fire into the room before the door shut. As it shut the explosion from the phaser battery shock the floor. Approving with the result they ran to catch up with the rest of them. The hall was quiet. Data had lead them the entire distance save the last 200 yards. The last hallway was wide. It seemed to stretch on for miles. Picard started down the hallway. A hum filled the air. Data jumped at Picard pushing him to the floor. "Look out!" he yelled. Data's body fell backwards. A green beam held him up as he flew through the air. The phaser eating through his uniform and sending parts of his andriod body flying through the air, held him for a full three seconds. His burned and sparking body fell to the floor. "My apologies captain the plans did not show the anti-per..." the life drained out of Data. "Anti-?" repeated Picard out loud. "Anti-personel" said Worf. "I see them sir." said Geordi, "They are spaced about two every 50 meters or so." "Worf? Do you see them?" "They are not visible to me. If they were I'd be able to remove them." "Let me target for you." said Geordi. Worf agreed at set his phaser on a low steady setting. Tracking it along the walls he listened to Geordi's instructions. Left. Up. Right. There. Worf bosted the power from the rifle. The result, a shower of sparks that fell like candy from a pinada. Another was taken out and then another. The hall was soon clear. The foursome moved to the end, weary of new traps. The final door took the efforts of both Picard and Worf to remove with phaser fire. Once the door came down they quickly filed into the room. The reactor chamber was a large room with smooth walls. Four crystal tubes radiated from the center chamber to four of the six walls. A single black tube ran into the ceiling. The chamber itself was a metal box, much like the dilithium chamber on the Enterprise. It hummed and the crystal tubes flashed. It was most peacefull, almost hypnotic. The sound of foot steps running down the hall broke the spell. O'Brian and Geordi turned to stop the intrusion. They fired several times before they fell. First O'Brian then Geordi. Three Poltarian guards ran into the room. Worf tackled one, a loud snap filled the air and then there were two. Grabbing the sword from the back of the dead guard, Worf lashed out cutting the other at waist point and then again at neck level when he stood up. With the sword in one hand and his hand phaser in another he stood against the last guard. For the first time in his life Worf meet someone better than he was. His body fell at the guards feet. Picard had taken a stance behind the chamber. He pointed at the chamber and shouted. "You lose!" he said. "Wrong!" said a voice from behind. Picard's hand reached for the trigger. 50 years later where the base floated a monument was placed. On it read the inscription "To mark the last stand of the United Federation of Planets and aliance fleet". A little guy with blue skin comes by every year to polish it, although his scales scratch it just a little. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------