Subject: The Return, parts 1-7 Since it's been so long and folks have been asking, here is

From: hyc@hanauma.jpl.nasa.gov (Howard Chu) Subject: The Return, parts 1-7 Since it's been so long and folks have been asking, here is the complete story so far. (Originally begun in April, there was a 6-7 month gap between the posting of parts 6 & 7...) Enjoy. -- Howard -=-=-=-=- All's well that ends well, eh Reg? Barclay: I-if you say so, Commander. P-personally, I thought th-things were well in hand. Laforge: Yeah, I can see how you might have looked at things that way. Still, I'm glad we're going to be getting some shore leave soon. It may just be a starbase, but it's better than trying to analyze the ship's computer logs on the ship's computer itself. Barclay: I c-could've done that a-a lot more easily, you know... Laforge: Well, yeah. Anyway.... I just feel a lot more comfortable about things this way, you know? Riker: Well, we actually got to make contact with a new life form, and rather painlessly, in fact. I wish all our missions were so productive. Picard: Indeed, Number One. Although I think I've had enough reminders of just how little we know about the galaxy we inhabit. I hesitate to say so, but I must admit that I'm looking forward to a little shore leave myself. Troi: Shore-leave, Captain? You? If I couldn't read the thoughts myself I would swear that you're joking. Picard: Now Counselor - Troi: Relax, Captain. You know *I'm* only joking... (strained chuckles between Picard and Riker) Riker: So we're going to Starbase 42... Isn't that slightly unusual for a simple shore leave and ugprade stop? Picard: In what way, Number One? Riker: Well, it's so close to the Romulan Neutral Zone, as I recall it's more of a monitoring post than a resort, if you know what I mean. Data: In fact, Commander, Starbase 42 has three AAA-class hotels with over 4000 room occupancy and regular tours of gourmet cuisine and diverse entertainment, as well as Picard: Thank you Data, that will be enough for now. Data: Yes, sir. Picard: At any rate, Will, it should be fairly interesting, also being situated so close to the galactic rim. Since we're here already I'm just happy to have refit facilities so near at hand. Worf: Sir, incoming message from Base Commander Stone at starbase 42. Picard: Onscreen, Lieutenant. Worf: Aye sir. (pause) It is double-encoded sir, the secondary transmission is for you only. (pause, meaningful glances...) Picard: I'll take it in my ready room. Number One, you have the con. Riker: Aye sir. (pause, till Picard exits) So much for R&R... Picard: Greetings Commander, to what do I owe the honor of a doubly-crypted transmission? Surely the Romulans haven't broken our last codebook already... Stone: Hello, Captain Picard. Just arranging some last minute details for your refit here. No one knows quite what's going on with the Romulans, so I decided to use the second code for safety. Things have moved quickly in the ten days you were gone, Picard. Picard: How so? The Romulans are massing for war? Stone: Maybe, but not with the Federation. In the past week listening posts have picked up increasing numbers of military transmissions, while all our monitor posts have detected *fewer* Romulan warships near the Neutral Zone. Picard: But that would mean Stone: Starfleet thinks the Romulans have encountered a new spacefaring race, on the far side of their territory. The drastic shift in military force indicates that these newcomers have the Romulans worried. Picard: And anything that would make the Romulans worried makes Starfleet worried, of course. Stone: Absolutely. We still don't have anything solid to go on yet, which is why Starfleet is sending you into Romulan space. ...Captain's Log, Stardate (N). We are enroute to Starbase 42 for debriefing and refitting from our recent journey. The Enterprise' computer banks will undergo a complete system dump for transcription to the Memory Alpha archives for study, while upgrade modifications are made to the ship's systems. During the time we were with the Zitherians, the Romulans apparently made hostile contact with a powerful new race. The Enterprise is being sent into the Neutral Zone and possibly into Romulan territory itself in hopes of gaining more detailed surveillance reports. Picard: Ensign, what is our estimated arrival time at Starbase 42? Ensign: Approximately two days at our current cruising speed of warp two, Sir. Picard: Increase speed to warp 5, Ensign. Ensign: Aye sir, increasing to warp factor 5. Riker: Something we should know about, Captain? Picard: Indeed, Number One. (toggle a switch, announce:) Senior staff meeting in 10 minutes. Riker: So the Romulans have made a new enemy... Picard: It appears that way, but Starfleet isn't ready to jump on mere appearances. Riker: Especially not after our *last* Romulan encounter, no doubt. Picard: No doubt. But the Klingon contingent is, understandably, getting more restless since they see an apparent weakening of their longtime enemy. They are currently willing to keep the peace; they see the wisdom of trying to learn more about the situation, but their impatience continues to grow. Worf: A warrior does not go blindly into a fight. But a true warrior also knows when the time is right to attack! Laforge: I wonder if it's the Borg again, they reported attacks similar to the ones we witnessed before. Picard: At this point it's anyone's guess, since the Romulans aren't talking, as usual. But part of our upgrades will include installation of Improved Definition phaser arrays and control banks. Troi: "Improved Definition" ? Data: The Improved Definition phaser project is an offshoot of the research undertaken after our first encounter with the Borg. It is an enhancement of the frequency shift algorithm we employed against the Borg in our second encounter, but does not employ all of the enhancements of the High Definition phaser project for the new Cluster-class starship. It only involves a few of the principles being explored in the High Definition Picard: If we could continue please, Mr. Data. Data: Yes Sir. Sorry, sir. Picard: It could be the Borg, but no one knows. Still, the products of the research taken to prepare for the Borg are the best we have for facing these unknowns. Commander Laforge, pick 3 of your team to oversee the upgrade, the starbase will provide the facilities and necessary manpower. You and Mr. Data will also have responsibility for upgrading the ship's sensor arrays. If we can get enough information without leaving the Neutral Zone then so much the better. Crusher: No one's even explained yet how we're going to stay in the Neutral Zone. What's going on? Picard: Reports indicate that the majority of the Romulan warships have been withdrawn from the Neutral Zone to participate in whatever distant action is occurring. The Zone is currently being patrolled by a scattered number of frigates and police ships. Riker: Sooo... Starfleet figures there are sparse enough patrols that we can traipse in unnoticed, or if we are noticed, we can stare down any Romulan who cares to make a point of it? Picard: In essence... Picard: On my way. - Well, I think we've covered most of it anyway. Let's see what these Romulans are really up to... Worf: The signals are still very faint. We are now getting enhanced signals relayed from starbase 42. Riker: Who ever heard of a Romulan making a distress call? Picard: Let's see it, Lieutenant. Onscreen. Stone: Enterprise, as you can see, this Romulan is shaken up pretty badly. The Klingons have dispatched a squadron of cloaked ships to investigate. They should arrive in two hours, but they have not contacted the Romulans yet. Starbase out. Riker: Looks like the Klingons want to hog all the fun to themselves. Are we going to let them? Picard: Perhaps not. Ensign, increase to warp 8. We may not have time for all the upgrades, but we can get a better perspective of things from the starbase. (Ensign: Increasing to warp 8.) Picard: Commander Laforge, contact the starbase engineering staff, try to get a head start on the phaser array upgrades. Laforge: Aye sir... Picard: Data, join Mr Laforge in Engineering. A fair number of systems are targeted for modification, and I'd like to have as much covered as possible. Data: Understood, sir. Riker: Then what? Picard: Then? Then we see what unfolds, Number One. Laforge: Whew-ee, these plans call for some pretty comprehensive changes! Phaser control, sensor array, warp engine output, even modifications to the photon torpedo systems. I sure hope those R&D guys know what they're doing... Barclay: Th-these phaser control sy-system changes look pretty s-straight- forward. I th-think we can f-fabricate the necessary parts with the replicator. Data: That sounds plausible. The reconfiguration should not take long. Laforge: Great Reg. Get on it. Data, let's have a look at these new sensor and scanner controls... Worf: Another transmission from Starbase 42, sir. Picard: Onscreen, Lieutenant. Stone: We're about to receive telemetry data from the Klingon ships. Patching you in, Enterprise. Picard: Understood, we are receiving. Riker: Judging from the scale, those ships must be immense! Troi: I sense ... great evil, Captain. Something terrible is happening out there. Picard: Evil? What do you mean? Troi: Great malevolence is at work here. Just... Evil! Riker: There's certainly something terrible out there. That must be at least a third of the border fleet in action. Picard: Crusher to bridge, medical emergency! (stands up) Riker: Deanna! (Rushing to her side...) Worf: Sir! Tactical telemetry indicates the planet has disappeared! And one of the moons in the system is now moving in a *linear* path. Picard: Linear path? That doesn't make sense. Crusher: What happened? Deanna, are you alright? Troi: (moan...) I-I think so... (moan...) Riker: But what happened? Worf: Captain, the Klingon squadron has ceased transmissions. Picard: Acknowledged. Worf, raise Commander Stone. Worf: Aye sir. Captain, Base Commander Stone is already hailing us. Picard: Onscreen... Stone: I hope you were watching closely, Picard, so you can tell me I didn't just see a planet destroyed. Picard: I was indeed, Commander, but I suspect we both saw the same thing. Stone: I was afraid you'd say that. I'm forwarding a report to Starfleet. When is the Enterprise going to arrive? Ensign: Approximately 24 minutes, sir. Picard: In 10 minutes, Commander. We can discuss this further then. Stone: Fine. Till then. Picard: Warp factor 8.2, ensign. Ensign: Aye sir, increasing velocity to warp factor 8.2. Riker: So what exactly happened just now? Those alien ships were big, but they couldn't destroy a planet, could they? Picard: Hopefully we'll be able to determine that when we dock. Counselor, are you alright? Troi: I will be in a moment, Captain. Crusher: No physical damage evident, but tremendously increased cerebral bloodflow. No hemorrhaging, but that must be one heck of a headache. Troi: All of a sudden, such intense fear, then pain, like a million voices crying out all at once. Now ... nothing. Except ... a lurking malevolence. Crusher: This should ease the headache, but I think you better come down to sickbay for a more thorough examination. Troi: I don't think that will be necessary, Dr. It was a psychic shock, not something that would cause physical damage. Picard: We only have a few minutes, Deanna, but perhaps it would be best if you spent them resting under Dr. Crusher's observation. Troi: Yes sir... Laforge: Engineering to bridge Riker: Go ahead Geordi... Laforge: Sir, we've recalibrated the sensor array according to these specifications and have extended our range 35% according to preliminary testing. Scanner resolution has also improved. Picard: Well done, Mr Laforge. Further testing will have to wait, we'll be docking at Starbase 42 soon and I'll need you and Data then. Your backup crew will have to oversee any further operations. Laforge: Understood sir. I'll put Barclay in charge, since he's already handled it up to this point. Laforge out. Riker: Barclay? (sigh...) Ensign: Sir, we've entered sector 43-12. Ready for docking approach in 2 minutes. Picard: Acknowledged, Ensign. Drop to impulse. Ensign: Aye sir. Impulse power only. K'lnok: The alien battleships docked with the battlestation shortly after the starbase was eliminated. We have been unable to detect further activity, and are approaching with full cloaking. There has been no sign of any surviving Romulan warships. We will resume contact in one hour. K'lnok out. Stone: The Klingons have maintained radio silence to avoid detection, with a few intermittent dispatches like the one you just saw. We have not been able to converse with them since their telemetry relays stopped. Picard: Has Starfleet been notified of the latest developments? Stone: Yes, but we've received no reply yet. Your previous orders will stand until further notice. Riker: Even with the improvements made to our sensors we won't get a better picture than you'll get here on this starbase. What's the point of sending the Enterprise into Romulan space to monitor a situation that the Klingons can already monitor? Especially since they can move freely with their cloaking devices? [ed: So we'll have a story to watch, obviously!! }-) ] Riker: If I may speak candidly sir, I must say that something about these orders doesn't make any sense. Stone: As you've guessed, there are other motives here. We have enjoyed a prosperous, peaceful alliance with the Klingons for many years now, but no one can overlook their natural warrior instincts. In fact, a few members of the Federation Council have expressed some concern about the Klingons being the first Federation representatives to make contact with these aliens. I'm sure you can appreciate these concerns - um, no offense, Lieutenant Worf. Worf: None taken, *Sir*. Picard: So we are actually now being assigned to make contact with these aliens? Stone: Yes, if at all possible, find out where they're from, what sparked their conflict with the Romulans, what they're ultimately seeking. We want to establish peaceful contact with this race. Riker: That could be interpreted as a hostile act by the Romulans, though. Never mind that simply violating the Neutral Zone is an act of war. Stone: That's a risk we'll have to take. These aliens are too powerful to be allowed to remain unknowns. We have to learn more about them, see if they pose any threat to the Federation. We can justify your initial entry into Romulan space as response to distress calls. We're betting that the Romulans will be too busy with the aliens to offer much objection. Picard: Since we *are* dealing in unknowns, it would seem wiser to wait it out, since we *know* violating Romulan Space is an act of war. Stone: Jean-Luc, we're not here to debate Starfleet orders. And Starfleet doesn't want to get caught unaware. Given the destructive power we've witnessed, the problem may grow too large to handle if we wait it out. Picard: Yes, but what I mean is Voice: Alert. Intruder detected in sector 43-13. Commander Stone please report to the bridge. Stone: That's in the Neutral Zone! I wonder what the devil is going on. We'll have to talk more later, Picard. I suggest you and your crew return to your ship, we may need your services sooner than we thought. Picard: Data, link us in to the starbase commnet. Let's see what's happening. Data: Aye, sir. Picard: Bridge to Engineering - Barclay: Engineering, B-Barclay here, sir. Picard: What's the status of our warp drive upgrade? Is Commander Laforge there yet? Barclay: He j-just arrived sir. A f-full status report is on-on the way. Picard: Fine. Picard out. (turn to stare at viewer...) Riker: How did they get there so fast? Picard: Let's not jump to conclusions Number One. We don't know that this is one of the ships we watched before. Data, can you increase the magnification? What are those objects being ejected? Data: Increasing. Scanners indicate the objects in question are metallic, no life signs indicated. They appear to be small self-propelled probes of some kind. Judging from the number and trajectories, the aliens would seem to be surveying the star systems in that sector. Riker: Surveying? So they're on a mission of conquest and colonization? Worf: Pardon the intrusion, sir. Klingons fight for conquest. That battle station was *not* designed for conquest. One cannot expand one's empire by vaporizing the member planets. Riker: Point taken, Mr. Worf. But if they're not colonizing, then what *are* they doing here? Picard: Counselor - can you pick up any impressions that would shed light on the question? Troi: Sorry Captain, the distance is too great. I cannot isolate their thought patterns from everything else in the intervening space. Worf: Sir, the starbase is receiving another transmission from Captain K'lnok. Picard: Onscreen, Lieutenant. Worf: Aye sir. K'lnok: Federation Starbase, this is Captain K'lnok. We have lost contact with the alien warships. We are now scanning the area for survivors. Picard: Worf, what happened to their signal? Worf: They switched off, sir. The aliens reappeared in their sector, and Captain K'lnok ordered full cloaking. That is all I heard before the channel closed. Data: Sir, the alien vessel has changed course and is accelerating. Picard: What is its new heading? Data: 268.7 mark 3. Sir, it is on a direct intercept course with our current coordinates. Picard: Alert Commander Stone. Data, what is their ETA? Data: They are still traveling at sublight speeds, but continue to accelerate. I cannot determine their maximum velocity or estimated time of arrival as yet, Captain. Worf: The starbase personnel are aware of the course change, Sir. They have gone to red alert. We are being cleared to disengage from the spacedock. Picard: Ensign, take us out of dock. Lieutenant Worf, sound red alert. (aside) where is that engineering status report?? Laforge: Engineering to Captain Picard Picard: Go ahead, Commander. Data: Captain, the alien vessel has disappeared from sensors. Picard: Number One, take care of Geordi's report. Data, what do you mean "disappeared" ? Data: They were accelerating to lightspeed, sir. The moment they attained lightspeed they vanished from the sensors. Worf: Sir, sensors are now picking up a subspace anomaly, bearing 352. Picard: Onscreen. Picard: Lieutenant, hail the alien vessel. All freqencies. Worf: Aye sir. Picard: Number One, what is our weapons status? Riker: Thanks to Lieutenant Barclay, we have Improved Definition phasers available. But Geordi is still working on increasing the warp engine output to provide sufficient energy for the new phasers. Worf: The alien vessel is not responding. Picard: Keep trying, Lieutenant. Can we fire the phasers with our current warp configuration? Riker: Yes, but only for a limited amount. The old power couplings won't hold up to the higher energy levels for very long. Picard: With luck it won't come to that. Riker: I'd like to know how they found us so quickly... Picard: Indeed, Number One. Unfortunately they're not giving us the opportunity to ask. Ensign: We are clear of the spacedock, sir. Picard: Lay in an intercept course with the alien vessel, one-half impulse. Ensign: Course plotted and laid in, sir. Picard: Engage. Counselor, what can you make of the aliens now? Troi: I sense a note of surprise, Captain. And also a slight hint of fear and apprehension. They seem to think we are the Romulans, Captain! They were not expecting to find us here. Picard: Indeed. Fear of us? Fear of the Romulans? Troi: I'm not sure, sir, but I don't think so. I can't pick up anything more specific. Picard: Lieutenant Worf, any luck hailing the vessel? Worf: None sir. They are apparently capable of receiving our transmissions but are ignoring them. Riker: More probes? (looking confused. he's good at that look, eh?) Data: Negative. I am detecting life signs. The small objects appear to be piloted spacecraft. Picard: What is our current range? Data: Twenty thousand megameters and closing, sir. Riker: Are those smaller vessels armed? Data: That is highly probable. Energy levels are too high to be accounted for solely by their propulsion systems. Riker: Raise shields. Worf: Shields raised, sir. Picard: Are we still tied in to the Starbase communications net? Data: Affirmative. Picard: Good. Link our fire control scanners to the Starbase scanners. Riker: Afraid they'll overwhelm our targeting systems? Picard: It's a possibility we cannot rule out, Number One. We may still be able to communicate peacefully, but the likelihood of that seems to be decreasing. Data: Range is twelve thousand megameters, sir. The smaller craft are approaching at approximately eight tenths of lightspeed. The larger vessel is also continuing to approach. Picard: Lieutenant Worf, try to open a channel again. Broadcast this message: "To unidentified vessel. You are encroaching on Federation territory. Stop and identify yourselves or we will be forced to take action against you." Worf: Aye sir, opening channel. ... Sir, they are responding. Picard: Onscreen! Ozzel: This is Admiral Ozzel of the Imperial Star Destroyer Ventooin. We do not recognize the sovereignty of your "Federation" over this space. We have traced your communications with rebel ships and recognize you to be aiding enemies of The Empire. Surrender and prepare to be boarded. Picard: (gestures to cut the channel) Rebels? Surrender? Counselor, can you tell what he's talking about? Troi: He must be referring to the Klingon vessels, sir. I sense anticipation, this Admiral is waiting to hear how other task forces have fared. Riker: They must have intercepted K'lnok's report of looking for survivors. Then they traced the source and destination of the signal to reach us and the Klingons! Data: That seems highly likely sir. This vessel was situated nearly between us at the time. Picard: (nodding to Worf to reopen the channel) This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard, of the Federation Starship Enterprise. We know nothing of the rebels of whom you speak. We seek only to communicate and establish peaceful relations with your people. Why do you wish us to surrender? We have no quarrel with you. However, I must repeat my prior warning, and ask you to cease your advance into Federation space. Riker: Well, that didn't seem very friendly. Picard: What was that? Data: The small alien spacecraft have opened fire. They appear to be using pulsed energy beam weapons. Riker: Any damage? Data: None sir, shields are holding. Picard: Lieutenant, fire a low-intensity warning shot at the mother ship. Target one degree off their bow. Let's give them one more chance to desist. Worf: Aye sir. Riker: Think they'll take the hint, sir? Picard: We'll know soon enough, Number One. Picard: Damage report! Worf: Shields are holding at 90%, sir. Minor disturbances on decks 9 and 22. Picard: Arm photon torpedoes, ready phasers. Lock on the mother ship. Worf: Torpedoes armed, phasers locked on target. Picard: This is damned annoying. Fire photon torpedoes, delta cluster. Worf: Firing photon torpedoes. Data: A hit, sir. They seem to have deflector screens, no structural damage is evident. Picard: Inform the starbase of our action. That ship should be entering their weapon range soon. Riker: That was different - where did it come from? Data: A small projectile, sir, very dense. Composed primarily of protons. Apparently these gunships have a diverse complement of weapons. Worf: Shields down to 72%, sir. Picard: Begin evasive maneuvers! Data: Sir, we are completely surrounded by these craft, and they are orders of magnitude more maneuverable. Riker: Worf, lock phasers on any small fighters, wide dispersion. Fire at will. Worf: Aye sir. Firing. Data: Sir, phaser energy conduits are approaching danger zone. Critical in 20 seconds at present rate of fire. Riker: Another round, Worf. Dammit sir! We can track them but we can't hit so many targets. Picard: Indeed, Number One. We're wasting our firepower destroying such tiny objects. Worf: Shields at 61%. Phasers deenergized. Minor injuries reported. Picard: Full reverse. Let's put some distance between us and that star destroyer before it lives up to its name. Data: The gunships are pursuing, sir. They appear to have only forward-firing weapons; they can only attack when they are facing us. Picard: Interesting... Worf, ready tractor beam. Select targets as they enter facing trajectories. Filter out other objects from the targeting system until they attain firing threshold. Activate when ready. Worf: Aye sir. Targeting computers reprogrammed, tractor beams ready. Riker: Brilliant! (beaming at Picard) Picard: Thank you, Number One. However, we're not out of the fire yet. Also, I was only expecting to hold them out of attack position, I didn't realize the craft couldn't handle the stress of deceleration. Riker: Well, it was still an excellent idea, sir. Worf: Shields are down to 30%! Structural damage reported on decks 23 thru 29. Sickbay reports casualties throughout the ship. Picard: But even that may not be enough. Data! Quickly, transmit to starbase: Lock tractor beams on us, and cycle every 30 milliseconds. Ensign, cut impulse, full stop. Ensign: Full stop, aye! Data: Message acknowledged, sir. Worf: Sir, sensors detect new subspace anomalies! Picard: Onscreen, Mr. Worf! Riker: Our options for peaceful contact seem to be dwindling, sir. Picard: I'm well aware of that, Number One. This is exactly the kind of situation Starfleet wanted to avoid. Now we're facing an interstellar war with a race we've only been aware of for a little over a week! Riker: Well, if they want a war they picked a helluva bad spot to start. We've seen these star destroyers' firepower; they won't even faze our starbase. Picard: Let's not get too overconfident, Will. They didn't just politely tap our shields just now either. Riker: What are they waiting for? They seemed in such a hurry to advance on us a few moments ago. Troi: Their commander is experiencing grave doubts, Sir. I sense that Admiral Ozzel is having difficulty committing to a course of action. Riker: Doubts? Maybe those one-man craft were their primary means of offense? Data: That is a likely hypothesis, sir. Analysis of the overall design of the star destroyers would indicate they are unaccustomed to fighting ships of a comparable size. Picard: Explain this analysis, Data. Data: Sir, the armaments they have so far displayed are not the size one would expect for dealing with ships of such mass. The number, size, and rate of fire indicates an arsenal targeted at small gunships, such as the ones launched against us, or possibly ships up to the size of a patrol cruiser. Their beam weapons were individually too weak to greatly affect our shields, but they obviously have the technology to implement larger weapons. Also, they were unable to coordinate a concentrated firing of their weapon turrets against us, further supporting the hypothesis that their vessels are designed to deal with multiple small independent targets. Riker: But how does that explain that battlestation we saw? Data: I do not know, sir. Picard: That's very interesting, but I don't know how it will help us in the immediate situation. Counselor, you said you sensed doubt in the alien commander. Can you learn anything more? Perhaps we can capitalize on those doubts some way. Troi: I don't know, Captain, I'm not picking up anything now. It's as if my senses were being jammed... Worf: Sir, motion detectors are picking up an object closing at high speed. Picard: Identify, Mr. Worf! Riker: Just when you thought you'd seen it all... Riker: They don't have rear-firing weapons! Picard: So it would seem... Worf: They are attempting to escape! Riker: What? Picard: We seem to have been given a reprieve! Hail the Klingons, um, Klingon vessels, Mr. Worf. Worf: Aye sir. Channel is open. Picard: Greetings, Klingon Commander. It is a great pleasure to be speaking to you. I am Captain Picard, of the starship Enterprise. K'lnok: I am K'lnok, Captain of the Vindicator. We have many things to discuss, Captain Picard. Picard: Agreed. Perhaps we should dock and continue our discussion on the base facilities. K'lnok: An acceptable proposal. We have need of a shipyard. K'lnok out. Riker: We better tell Commander Stone to expect more company... And we should requisition additional technicians to get on the refit. Picard: Make it so. Lieutenant Worf, inform Commander Stone. Worf: Aye, sir. K'lnok: Two of the alien vessels returned during our previous transmission. They must have planned an ambush but were no match for our firepower. The cowards escaped again, leaving almost no trace. Picard: Yes, we've noticed the peculiarity of their drive systems. How did you discover that this was their destination? K'lnok: Our sensors detected residues from their propulsion system. They use a crude type of ion engine, once we discovered the ion emissions we could detect tremendous amounts ejected by their engines. We were able to plot the ships' trajectories based on these traces and followed until we encountered them here. We were still unable to track the vessels on our scanners. Riker: Ion engines? They'd leave a trail like a flare... But our sensors couldn't pick them up until just before they arrived. Stone: Even the base scanners didn't pick them up. But we're recording massive ion traces now. Laforge: That's no surprise. If they're using ion engines, they must be enormous to move ships of that size. But that doesn't explain their translight capability, or why it doesn't leave any traces at translight speeds. We always tracked them right up to lightspeed, then .. nothing. Picard: It seems we continue to face questions with no sign of any answers. We cannot effectively deal with a threat if we cannot detect when it will arrive. Data: The solution is elementary. Uh, sirs. The alien vessels leave no ion trace in the intervening space because they do not traverse that space. Riker: What do you mean, Data, how can they travel distance without traversing the distance? Data: By eliminating the impossible, what remains, no matter how improbable, must be the truth. Sir, our own communications and transporter systems are based on subspace technology - they do not operate in normal space. Riker: Yes, but we know that only energy forms can be transferred through subspace, not matter. Are you proposing that they use transporters to beam their ships from point to point? Data: No sir, the energy costs would be prohibitive. However, another alternative exists - theoretically, matter endowed with sufficient kinetic energy could be elevated to another dimension, a hyperspace. The theory was in its infancy in the twenty-first century on Earth, but no practical results were achieved and research was abandoned with the advent of the warp drive. K'lnok: We too have recorded such research. It was proven to be impractical to implement. Picard: Judging from what we've seen so far, these aliens have a different standard of what is "practical." Data, access all records relevant to the topic. We need a way of detecting these vessels while they are in transit. We know there is a delay, the transition into and out of hyperspace is not instantaneous. There must be a way of tracking them while they are in flight. Mr Laforge, go with Data and work out a means for detection. Data: Aye sir. Laforge: On our way, Captain. K'lnok: We found no survivors in the Romulan sector, and only minimal Romulan ship debris. It is likely that their vessels cloaked and escaped in time to avoid destruction. Picard: What about alien survivors? K'lnok: We found only the remnants of their fighter craft. None of the pilots survived to be taken prisoner. Picard: Prisoner? We have not declared war with these aliens. K'lnok: A slip, I meant "to be rescued." Stone: Well, the Federation may not formally be at war but we are on a war footing here. This base monitors a highly sensitive area, we have to track shipping thru the Neutral Zone in three bordering sectors. Our regular patrol craft are totally outclassed by this menace. K'lnok: And we have yet to discover the location of the battlestation. If you will excuse me, I must file another report with the High Command. Stone: By all means, Captain. Troi: Captain, I believe we should return to the ship. Picard: Why do you say that, Counselor? Troi: I'm feeling .. a premonition, of sorts. We haven't much time, sir. Picard: Commander, I suggest you alert your personnel. I know it's not much to go on but I've come to trust my officers' instincts. Stone: I understand, Captain. I think we've covered as much as we can for now. Captain's Log, supplemental: After a brief encounter with the alien vessels, we have returned to dock at Starbase 42. We still have no means of detecting the approach of the alien vessels. Counselor Troi has been experiencing premonitions of impending doom, but several hours have now passed uneventfully. The ship remains at yellow alert, as is the starbase. The Klingon vessels were recalled to other duties by the High Command. No further messages have been detected from the Romulans. All seems quiet. Riker: What news have you got, Geordi? Laforge: Well sir, Data and Mr. Barclay are working out a prototype for their hyperspace scanner in holodeck 2. I just came to deliver the damage report. Picard: Proceed. Laforge: Phaser couplings are now fully operational, and shields are back to full efficiency. Also, we've installed an additional polarity detector in the shield controls. This should increase shield effectiveness in deflecting charged particles, like those proton torpedoes. Picard: Good work. Riker: Well, that ought to take care of those fighters. Troi: Captain, I'm sensing it again. Intense evil, it's getting closer! Picard: Ensign, prepare to exit spacedock. Lieutenant Worf, anything on the sensors? Worf: Negative sir. Sensors detect nothing unusual. Picard: Take us out, Ensign, ahead one half impulse. Ensign: Aye sir. Picard: Lieutenant, contact the starbase.. Find out if they've picked up anything. Worf: Aye sir. Nothing within scan range, sir. Troi: It *is* there, Captain. I'm certain of it. Picard: Ensign, lay in an elliptical course. I want a full sweep of this system, focused on the starbase. Ensign: Aye aye, sir. Course plotted and laid in. Picard: Engage. Riker: Sir, the starbase has much greater detection range. If they can't see anything, we won't see it. Picard: Probably true, Will, but if there really is something out there I'd prefer to go looking for it rather than wait for it to find us. Worf: Sir, subspace anomaly detected, bearing 339 mark 25! Picard: Onscreen, Lieutenant! Picard: Hail the aliens, Mr. Worf. Worf: Aye sir. (under breath) I do not believe they came here to talk. Riker: What was that, Lieutenant? Worf: Channel open, sir. Vader: My admiral reported some difficulties dealing with you. I am here to sort them out. Picard: This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Federation starship Enterprise. I must warn you that you are violating Federation Vader: Your Federation means nothing to me. You have aided enemies of the Empire. You have assaulted Imperial troops. Now you shall learn the price for crossing the Empire. Riker: Captain! Red alert, Mr. Worf! Raise shields! Riker: Medical emergency! Dr Crusher to the bridge immediately!

Riker: Dr. Crusher to the bridge immediately! Troi: He's being attacked telepathically, I can feel it! Captain, you must relax your body, stop struggling physically! Concentrate your mind on resisting! We can fight it but you must focus your thoughts completely. Riker: Deanna - Worf: Sir, the aliens are launching multiple fighter craft. Estimated intercept in 2 minutes. Phasers ready. Shall I arm photon torpedoes? Riker: Affirmative, Worf. Arm forward *and* rear launchers. From what we know so far it's a fair bet these aliens can't cope with warp drive. How far to the main ships? Helmsman: Range is approximately 12,000 megameters, sir. Riker: Ensign, set course 357 mark 35. Give me a .3 second burst of maximum warp on my mark. Navigator: Aye, sir! Riker: Worf, prepare to target rear torpedo launchers. After we move I want you to hit the closest target in the rear firing arcs. Full spread, maximum yield. Worf: Aye sir, photon torpedoes ready! Riker: Now, Ensign! Riker: Mr. Worf? Worf: Photon torpedoes locked on target, sir. Riker: Fire! Worf: Aye sir! Troi: Captain! Riker: Deanna, what happened? Picard: I'm (gasp) alright. Troi: It stopped, he's free now. Crusher: What are you talking about? What stopped? Troi: The Captain was attacked telepathically; he was being strangled. The attack stopped just a moment ago. Crusher: Strangled? We'd better make sure you're alright, Jean-Luc. Riker: Better make it fast, Dr. We surprised them just now but that won't last much longer. Worf: Sir, the enemy vessels are changing course. Crusher: This TriOx compound should help clear your head faster, Captain. Picard: Thank you Dr. What is our status, Number One? Riker: We have just warped behind the aliens and destroyed one of their vessels, Sir. I suggest we turn and prepare for a second assault. Picard: Make it so. Riker: Ensign, set course 180 mark 0. Turn us around! Navigator: Aye aye, sir. Picard: Well Counselor, it appears that we have encountered the source of the intense evil you've been sensing. The question is, how do we combat that sort of attack? Our shields are of no help. Troi: I'm not certain, Captain, but I believe it must take great concentration to achieve such effectiveness. Possibly the destruction of the enemy vessel distracted the being enough to break his mindlink with you. Picard: If only we had more time to analyze the situation. Picard to Commander Data - Data: Here, sir. Picard: You'll have to suspend your work on the hyperspace scanner, Mr. Data. We need you here on the bridge. Data: Acknowledged. On my way, sir. Riker: Captain, our conventional weapons far outclass theirs. If we're going to be vulnerable to psychic attacks as well, though, I suggest we take out as many of their units as possible before they get another chance. Troi: I don't believe they are all psychics, sir. I have only sensed one mind of appreciable power, and the evil emanates from there. Picard: Can you pinpoint the location of that being? Troi: Somewhat. My own telepathic powers are limited, and directional senses are always imprecise, but I am fairly certain he is on that base station. Picard: Then that is our target. We cannot reason with them, so we must disable them before that base station can destroy another starbase. Vader: Report, commander. What happened? Commander: We don't know yet, sir. One moment they were ahead of us, and our fighters were closing in, then suddenly they were behind us. Whatever drive system they're using, it's unlike any we've ever seen before. Vader: You said they were using fusion-based propulsion reactors. Commander: Yes, yes, that's what the sensors said, that's what they say now, but for a moment they read something totally different. Vader: You should pay more attention to verifying your facts, Commander. You are not sounding very rational. Commander: Yes, Lord Vader. Vader: How are your forces currently deployed? Commander: The fighter squadrons are closing with the cruiser, they should engage it shortly. They will break off and form an enclosing screen when the star destroyers enter attack range. The cruiser will not escape this time, Lord Vader. Vader: I want that ship captured intact. No unnecessary damage should be inflicted. Inform the fleet captains. Commander: As you wish, Lord Vader. Inform the fleet captains - the cruiser is not to be destroyed, it is to be taken intact! Vader: Now, proceed towards the base. We shall make another example of it... Riker: Data, how long before those fighters reach us? Data: Estimated intercept in 20 seconds, sir. Riker: Worf, lock phasers, wide dispersal. Prepare to fire at maximum range and dispersion. Worf: Aye sir. Data: Sir, the alien base station has changed course. Picard: What is the new heading, Mr. Data? Data: It is now on a direct course for Starbase 42, sir. Picard: Damn. Mr. Worf, fire when ready. Ensign, set intercept course for the base station, full impulse. Engage! Worf: Firing phasers, sir! Riker: Geordi, divert auxiliary power to the forward shields! Once we're past them it'll be a while before they can bring their weapons to bear on our rear. LaForge: Aye sir, shields holding steady. Picard: Mr. Worf, can you target the base station's propulsion systems? Worf: Negative, sir. If they are using ion drive there is no detectable emission from the base station. Picard: Very well. Lock photon torpedoes, closest surface point. Worf: Aye sir. Torpedoes ready. Picard: Fire photon torpedoes. Worf: Firing. Data: Direct hits, but there is no appreciable decrease in the base's power output levels. Analysis indicates the surface is mostly armor, with small weapon systems scattered across. Picard: Armor only? Worf, continue firing. Phasers and photon torpedoes, narrow salvo. Worf: Aye sir, firing phasers and photon torpedoes. Picard: Enemy status, Mr. Data? Data: 2% energy drop detected, sir. Possibly a secondary reactor powering the weapon systems in that area of the base. Picard: This is ridiculous. We could attack all day and still not make any significant difference. Riker: Suggest another torpedo salvo, sir. We may be able to trigger a chain reaction in their power systems. Picard: Mr. Data, when will they be in range of the Starbase weapon batteries? Data: At their current velocity, it will take 28 minutes, sir. Riker: Captain, we could disable the rest of these vessels first and still have time to deal with the base. Picard: Yes, Number One, assuming they don't get lucky and cripple us first. Besides, those other vessels are inconsequential. Only the base station has enough firepower to present a threat. (sigh.) Mr. Worf, prepare another round of photon torpedoes. Worf: Aye sir. (pause) Torpedoes ready, sir. Data: Captain, sensors indicate additional fighter launches from the base station. Also, we're picking up more fighters from the Star Destroyers behind us. Picard: Acknowledged, Mr. Data. How long before they intercept? Data: Given past performance, sir, I estimate a 97.4% probability that they will begin their attack at approximately 400 megameters. At their current velocity that will be in 52 seconds, sir. Riker: They should be well within phaser range already. Picard: We need to concentrate our attention and our firepower on that base station for the moment. Data, how long can we sustain their attack? Data: The aliens are using small particle beam weapons, which are easily deflected by our shields. With the shield upgrade, I estimate their weapons effectiveness at .04 percent, Sir. Picard: Fine, then we ignore those fighters for now. That ought to have a sufficiently demoralizing effect, maybe they'll realize the futility of their continued assault. Mr. Worf, maintain torpedo lock on the base station. Worf: Aye sir, torpedoes locked on target. Picard: Fire. Worf: Sir, the enemy fighters are intercepting our photon torpedoes. Picard: Intercepting .. ? Riker: That's suicide! What are they up to? Data: It does appear to be an effective means of shielding the main base from our torpedoes, Sir. Riker: Strangest idea of shields I ever saw. Picard: Indeed. Very well then, Mr. Worf, lock phasers on the torpedo impact crater. Narrow beam. Worf: Aye sir. (pause) Sir, the base station is locking on with a tractor beam! Riker: Use reverse tractor beams, try to break their lock! Worf: Trying, sir. (pause) No effect. Their beam is too powerful. Picard: Commander, can you divert more power to the tractor beam generators? LaForge: They just went to the limit, Sir. No one's ever expected to need a larger generator on a starship. Commander: We have them now, Lord Vader. Vader: Good. Bring them to the main hangar bay. Inform the fleet captains to resume course for the base station. We can study the ship systems later. Commander: Yes, Lord Vader. Commander: Admiral - we have a slight problem. Ozzel: Problem? What problem? Commander: Sir, the hangar bay moorings will not accomodate this alien craft. We cannot release the primary tractor beam until the ship is secured. Ozzel: So reconfigure a berth for the ship. How long will it take? Commander: Preparations have already begun, sir. We estimate at least an hour until the new moorings can be secured. But in the meantime, sir, we cannot provide full power to the main cannon, the primary reactors cannot sustain the sudden heavy power drain while the tractor beam is operating. Ozzel: We have insufficient power to attack? This is preposterous! Commander: Our orders were to capture the ship intact, sir. We cannot release the ship from the tractor beam without damaging it until the moorings are ready, and suspending the ship requires a great deal of power. Ozzel: Very well, return to your duties. I will advise Lord Vader of this new development. Picard: Weapons status, Mr. Worf - have you found a way to neutralize the tractor beam? Worf: No sir. Phaser simulations are still negative and photon torpedoes can not be launched. Riker: What about extending our shields? That would give the torpedoes free space to travel in, at least. LaForge: Yes, but unless we shrink them down again just before impact, we'll take an awful lot of feedback damage. Worf: Sir - incoming message from the aliens. Picard: Onscreen, Lieutenant. Commander: Attention rebel scum. Your ship has been captured and is being decontaminated prior to boarding. Make no effort at resistance or you will be destroyed. Riker: "Rebel scum?" Troi: Captain, they're hiding something. Picard: What do you mean? Hiding what? Troi: They may intend to board this ship, but I believe they are powerless to do so at the moment. Picard: Why? Why are they powerless? Troi: I don't know, I couldn't detect any more details, but I know they cannot act immediately, or they would have done so already. Picard: Very well. I want all personnel in outer areas of the ship evacuated to more central locations. Mr. Worf, post security detachments along all outer hull access routes. They've given us time to prepare, we might as well use it. Staff meeting in ten minutes. Worf: Aye sir. I will coordinate security teams here and join you when ready. Ozzel: Lord Vader, we cannot launch an attack against the enemy base without full power to the cannon. The attack must be postponed! Vader: I am tiring of your excuses, Admiral. However, an attack on the base may not be necessary if we can learn enough from the captured ship. You may order the fleet to withdraw. I want the commander of the alien ship brought to me for questioning within the hour! Ozzel: Yes, my lord! Worf: Security teams are in position, and containment force fields have all checked out, sir. Picard: Very good. What about the outer hull evacuation status? Troi: The evacuation has proceeded smoothly, sir, although there were some complaints that Ten-Forward had to be closed off. Crusher: And I've stationed emergency medic teams throughout the ship, just in case. Picard: Thank you, Dr. Now, what can we do about this tractor beam? LaForge: We may have discovered a weakness in the beam, sir. Picard: Please continue, Geordi. LaForge: Our sensors have detected a regular pattern in the pulsing energy output of the beam. It's not a constant energy field, but runs on a harmonic power cycle. We may be able to exploit the intervals when the field is at its weakest. Riker: Can you synchronize the phasers with these weak intervals? LaForge: Maybe, but it wouldn't do any good. It's only weak for a couple milliseconds, the phaser beam wouldn't be strong enough to do any damage on such a small duty cycle. Data: However, we may be able to modulate the transporter beam to function through the field. LaForge: We've done it before, although with this tiny an interval to work with, total transit time will really get extended. Riker: Extended how long? Data: At full gain, it will take 7.82 times longer for full materialization. LaForge: And even at full gain our effective power output is greatly reduced. We won't have a lot of range. Riker: We won't need a lot of range, we just need to get in, find the controls to deactivate the beam, and get out. Picard: Hold on, Number One. No one said anything about boarding the alien base. Riker: Sir, we're completely powerless unless we can deactivate that beam. This may be the only way. Besides, we're already *in* the base, so we might as well take a look around... Picard: How long will it take to modify the transporters? LaForge: Not long, it's a simple modification to the control circuits. Picard: Make it so. Commander, you may assemble your away team. However, I am assigning Mr. Worf and Mr. LaForge to remain on the ship. Worf: But sir! - Picard: Commander Riker's mission is one of espionage, Mr. Worf, not for combat. However, with the threat of enemy boarding parties, there is a great likelihood of combat on *this* ship. As Chief of Security you are needed here. Worf: Yes sir. Picard: Geordi, I need you in Engineering, to monitor our power systems and make sure any intruders aren't able to damage critical systems and leave us without backup. LaForge: Aye sir. Riker: Data, you're with me. We'll keep the party small and move fast. Picard: If that is all, this meeting is adjourned. Good luck, Will. Riker: Thank you sir. Let's go, Data. -- -- Howard Chu @ Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, CA