Windslow is really in touch with his spirital side, isn't he? This is an odd story matter/style for the Independence. With that said, I am liking it and am intrigued as to where it will go and the mysteries surrounding it.
ST: Independence - "The Toltec"
- Thread starter Dnoth
- Start date
Windslow is really in touch with his spirital side, isn't he? This is an odd story matter/style for the Independence. With that said, I am liking it and am intrigued as to where it will go and the mysteries surrounding it.
While I don't subscribe to their particular beliefs...I do hope Windslow is going to get a wake-up call about his narrow-mindedness. I think he needs it in more ways than one...for his own health as well as on general principle.
I also wanted to say, good work on the rank structure of the Nausicaans! One thing I particularly like is that you don't seem to have gone with direct equivalencies to Federation rank--something, of course, I'm a great fan of myself.
Here's a question that makes me wonder about. In my version of the Cardassian system, for instance, you have two glinns--one that's basically the XO and one that serves as chief engineer (which may be referred to as systems control officer on a starbase). While it's hard to explain the delineation completely without just illustrating a Cardassian crew in action, the glinn functioning as XO tends to be focused more on mission, strategy, and outward things, with attention to crew cohesion/morale as well...kind of the administrative side of things. The glinn functioning as chief engineer is more responsible for the physical well-being of the ship. But in the Cardassian case--if these two equally-ranked officers get into an impasse they can't break on their own, the gul will step in.
Your juhin and shikikan remind me of my two glinns. But who breaks the impasse if these two disagree significantly? Custom certainly would suggest who should yield, but will that always happen without a "gul" above them to enforce it? Would you have the crew set at each other's throats as they choose sides between these two officers who are equally ranked except for an artifact of custom?
Overall, I definitely love how, in just that short segment, you were able to get me thinking about this culture and wanting to know more about exactly how they worked. I think it's very interesting that you went with a Japanese feudal inspiration--I'm curious, what influenced that choice?
I also wanted to say, good work on the rank structure of the Nausicaans! One thing I particularly like is that you don't seem to have gone with direct equivalencies to Federation rank--something, of course, I'm a great fan of myself.
Here's a question that makes me wonder about. In my version of the Cardassian system, for instance, you have two glinns--one that's basically the XO and one that serves as chief engineer (which may be referred to as systems control officer on a starbase). While it's hard to explain the delineation completely without just illustrating a Cardassian crew in action, the glinn functioning as XO tends to be focused more on mission, strategy, and outward things, with attention to crew cohesion/morale as well...kind of the administrative side of things. The glinn functioning as chief engineer is more responsible for the physical well-being of the ship. But in the Cardassian case--if these two equally-ranked officers get into an impasse they can't break on their own, the gul will step in.
Your juhin and shikikan remind me of my two glinns. But who breaks the impasse if these two disagree significantly? Custom certainly would suggest who should yield, but will that always happen without a "gul" above them to enforce it? Would you have the crew set at each other's throats as they choose sides between these two officers who are equally ranked except for an artifact of custom?
Overall, I definitely love how, in just that short segment, you were able to get me thinking about this culture and wanting to know more about exactly how they worked. I think it's very interesting that you went with a Japanese feudal inspiration--I'm curious, what influenced that choice?
Nerys you make a very good point. I was a little too caught up in Windslow and co. to comment on the Nausicans.
So little was said, but it did point to a lot more going on. All too often it is far too easy to be quite generic in how alien species are portrayed. Your stories obviously go into rich detail about the Cardassian structure and ranks. But even here we do get an interesting insight. Hopefully, it promises more.
So little was said, but it did point to a lot more going on. All too often it is far too easy to be quite generic in how alien species are portrayed. Your stories obviously go into rich detail about the Cardassian structure and ranks. But even here we do get an interesting insight. Hopefully, it promises more.
We haven't seen much of the Nausicaans and their society in established Trek. You provide us with an interesting, yet brief glance at how this society works. Hopefully we get to see even more.
Windslow is being surprisingly boneheaded in the way he handles an encounter with a different culture. I wonder if that is due to his recent problems or if this is the kinda guy he is. In any case, I agree. He definitely needs some deep soul searching ...
Windslow is being surprisingly boneheaded in the way he handles an encounter with a different culture. I wonder if that is due to his recent problems or if this is the kinda guy he is. In any case, I agree. He definitely needs some deep soul searching ...
An interesting glimpse into Nausicaan society and an intriguing philosophical discussion. Zo'Kama is right though in that for soul searching to be most effective, it must be during times of turmoil--as Windslow is taken down to the basics, he'll be forced to rebuild himself--or stay mired--either way, it's his choice.
Well, I went with a shogunate because I read the Nausicaans were partly named after a Japanese anime. Juhin and shikikan are actually Japanese for 'quartermaster' and 'commander.' (or at least the on-line translator tells me)
The quartermaster idea came from when I looked up how some pirate ships were organized.
I envision Nausica kind of like Earth around 1910. Several moderate-sized powers trying to get to the top of the hill. Right now, the Hi'ought are the ones to beat.
I'm glad everyone is enjoying the story. I must admit, working out the Nausicaan angle has given me a second wind on this story.
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CHAPTER 10
Supplemental
USS Rhode Island, Galley
In Orbit of Maluria VID
The Latina captain placed the fork and serrated knife on the empty plate. The skin of a sweet potato and small blobs of fat littered it. She leaned back in satisfaction. “I haven’t had a real steak since I was a girl.”
Her silver haired counterpart smiled, “Well technically, it’s not Terran bovine.”
She scrunched up her brow, “What was it?”
Playfully, he asked, “Did you like it?”
“Yeah.”
“Then don’t ask,” he suggested.
She grinned and cocked her head, “Fair enough.”
Most of the tables in the dining area were empty. Most of the crew had already eaten. It was a matter of pride for Captain Killian to eat after the majority of his subordinates. He sipped some type of ale and began, “Now that the laborers are cooperative, the mine should be up and running by Tuesday. The phaser turrets will be ready tomorrow; the shields, the day after.”
Sintina rested her elbows on the small, utilitarian table, “I not sure what I think about dismantling a shuttle and giving these people weapons.”
The older captain leaned back, “Well I admit, I’m a bit of an old fashioned C.O. Some in Command don’t like us simple starship captains making those kinds of decisions anymore. The leash is much shorter for your generation.”
Aurelia brushed a lock of her jet black hair out of her eye and stated, “With respect captain, we command starships. We’re not diplomats or negotiators.”
Jason Killian laughed out loud. “Is that what they’re teaching these days?” He caught his breath and became much more somber. “I have twenty years of command experience. In that time, I have been a diplomat. I have been a counselor. I have been a mentor. I’ve been a babysitter. And occasionally, I have been a fighter. A captain is all these things and more, regardless of what you’ve been told.”
She stated, “I don’t think so. Decisions like that are better left to the politicians. A captain could get into a lot of trouble for making those types of calls. As for the rest,” she took a sip, “I don’t like playing mommy.”
Killian rebutted without sounding accusatory, “Good, bad, or indifferent, that’s part of the job.”
“Maybe, but not much. We have counselors and diplomatic officers that deal with most of that.” she rejoined.
He sighed, “Well, as I said, I’m from a different generation.”
She asserted, “The war forced the younger captains to be a bit less…soft.”
The veteran captain wanted to laugh again at his naïve counterpart. He started with, “You know, the Cardassian Wars weren’t exactly a walk in the park.”
She backpedaled, “I didn’t mean to say…”
He waved her off, “Oh I know. Don’t worry about it.” He sighed, “I agree with you. The culture in the fleet has certainly changed in the last few years.” His face betrayed his unspoken sentiment: ‘…and it’s not for the best.’
*****
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Raaik (Affiliated with the Hi’ought Shogunate)
Traveling near the Maluria System
Wi’jawk’s beaded locks clattered as he reached the display. “Are you sure it’s the same ship?”
Maniv pointed to the warp signature. “It is the same Kyluk ship that attacked Junti’s mine.” The shikikan then asked, “Have you told the Shogun?”
His eyes met Maniv’s. They had no fear as he stated, “If we contact him without the shipment from the Orions, we are dead.”
The shikikan nodded in solemn understanding. He barked to his helmsman, “Intercept that ship!”
*****
Supplemental
Human Settlement (Tollen)
Maluria II
Karim bin Nadal looked up silently at the stars a few meters away from Sierra’s home. The Perseus Arm of the galaxy could easily be seen in the night sky. Insects sang in the tall grass nearby.
The tan-scaled doctor walked next to him.
He commented as she approached, “I forgot how beautiful it looks from behind an atmosphere. I’m not used to seeing the stars twinkle anymore.”
She looked up and commented, “There is…something about this place…these people that’s soothing.”
Karim chuckled to himself, “I don’t think our X.O. thinks so.”
“He was rather rude to them.” She added, “Not that they seemed to care.”
The security officer thought back to his high school philosophy. He quoted Marcus Aurelius, even though he knew his Arkonian shipmate wouldn’t know the reference, “Reject your sense of injury and the injury itself disappears.”
*****
Supplemental
Runabout Luger
On the Surface of Maluria II
Independence’s primary support craft lay in the shadow of the old United Earth vessel. Upon entering, Ethan activated minimal lights and climate control. There was a chill in the air. The hatch closed as he made his way to aft compartment, which held the bunk bed nook.
He prepared for bed, convinced he had these people pegged. ‘Stupid neo-aged hippies, they don’t know anything. They talk in gibberish. It’s just rhetorical nonsense. Probably do more than make clothes out of cannabis. They don’t know me.’ He rested his head on the pillow. ‘They can’t help me…’
*****
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Tahin (Affiliated with the Kyluk Empire)
Traveling near the Maluria System
The difference between Hi’ought Nausicaans and Kyluk Nausicaans were subtle, especially to outsiders. The two nation-states developed on separate continents on the homeworld. Most Kyluks were paler and their mandibles were less prominent than the Hi’ought’s.
Everyone on the Tahin was of the merchant class. The owner and administrator of the ship, Ekik, didn’t trust slaves or indentured servants.
Ekik was rather proud of himself. Emperor Kryim would surely grant him land on the Vebra coast if the Hi’oughts lost their gallicite trade with the Orions. Everything was going quite well. Starfleet would effectively end the arrangement Juhin Wi’jawk had with the mine owner.
Yes, the plan was going better than planned…until ten seconds ago.
Ekik steadied himself on a bulkhead. The tremors he felt were unmistakable effects of disruptor fire impacting the ship’s modest shields.
He looked to Gryth, the gunner that had the lowest bid, “Who is it?”
“It’s Wi’jawk’s ship. Somehow, he found out!” He added, “He’s hailing.”
The ship’s owner activated the main viewer himself. That Hi’ought pirate looked at him with a smug face. “Still trying to subvert the Shogun, I see.”
Ekik shot back, “That murderer has killed tens of thousands in his quest to say on top! We will show you how fragile your shogunate really is!”
Wi’jawk chuckled darkly, “Not today…and not by you.” He sniffed some type of substance and continued, “Stop your vessel and prepare to be boarded.”
The Kyluk was in an untenable position. His ship was a 20 year old, Yridian cargo vessel. Sure, he was able to afford some upgrades, but it was no match for Wi’jawk’s ship. The shogunate got their vessels second-hand from the Syndicate.
He weighed his options. He defiantly wouldn’t win a fight. Running was no guarantee, either. Maybe he just wanted the gallicite? Ekik offered, “I don’t have the ore anymore. Scan my ship. Confirm it.”
The pirate looked off screen. The answer didn’t seem to deter him. He looked back, “You may not have it, but you know where it went.” He leaned closer, “I look forward to making you squirm.” The channel closed.
The shaking resumed. Quickly, Ekik consulted his star charts. The closest place to hide was still the Maluria system. He ordered the course change at maximum warp.
*****
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Raaik (Affiliated with the Hi’ought Shogunate)
Traveling near the Maluria System
Shikikan Maniv reported, “They’re heading back into the system at warp six.” He added with a predatory grin, “I love it when they run.” He looked to the quartermaster with glee.
Wi’jawk was more somber, “The ship is yours. I want him alive…at least until we know where the gallicite is.”
Maniv barked the order to pursue.
END OF CHAPTER 10
Supplemental
USS Rhode Island, Galley
In Orbit of Maluria VID
The Latina captain placed the fork and serrated knife on the empty plate. The skin of a sweet potato and small blobs of fat littered it. She leaned back in satisfaction. “I haven’t had a real steak since I was a girl.”
Her silver haired counterpart smiled, “Well technically, it’s not Terran bovine.”
She scrunched up her brow, “What was it?”
Playfully, he asked, “Did you like it?”
“Yeah.”
“Then don’t ask,” he suggested.
She grinned and cocked her head, “Fair enough.”
Most of the tables in the dining area were empty. Most of the crew had already eaten. It was a matter of pride for Captain Killian to eat after the majority of his subordinates. He sipped some type of ale and began, “Now that the laborers are cooperative, the mine should be up and running by Tuesday. The phaser turrets will be ready tomorrow; the shields, the day after.”
Sintina rested her elbows on the small, utilitarian table, “I not sure what I think about dismantling a shuttle and giving these people weapons.”
The older captain leaned back, “Well I admit, I’m a bit of an old fashioned C.O. Some in Command don’t like us simple starship captains making those kinds of decisions anymore. The leash is much shorter for your generation.”
Aurelia brushed a lock of her jet black hair out of her eye and stated, “With respect captain, we command starships. We’re not diplomats or negotiators.”
Jason Killian laughed out loud. “Is that what they’re teaching these days?” He caught his breath and became much more somber. “I have twenty years of command experience. In that time, I have been a diplomat. I have been a counselor. I have been a mentor. I’ve been a babysitter. And occasionally, I have been a fighter. A captain is all these things and more, regardless of what you’ve been told.”
She stated, “I don’t think so. Decisions like that are better left to the politicians. A captain could get into a lot of trouble for making those types of calls. As for the rest,” she took a sip, “I don’t like playing mommy.”
Killian rebutted without sounding accusatory, “Good, bad, or indifferent, that’s part of the job.”
“Maybe, but not much. We have counselors and diplomatic officers that deal with most of that.” she rejoined.
He sighed, “Well, as I said, I’m from a different generation.”
She asserted, “The war forced the younger captains to be a bit less…soft.”
The veteran captain wanted to laugh again at his naïve counterpart. He started with, “You know, the Cardassian Wars weren’t exactly a walk in the park.”
She backpedaled, “I didn’t mean to say…”
He waved her off, “Oh I know. Don’t worry about it.” He sighed, “I agree with you. The culture in the fleet has certainly changed in the last few years.” His face betrayed his unspoken sentiment: ‘…and it’s not for the best.’
*****
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Raaik (Affiliated with the Hi’ought Shogunate)
Traveling near the Maluria System
Wi’jawk’s beaded locks clattered as he reached the display. “Are you sure it’s the same ship?”
Maniv pointed to the warp signature. “It is the same Kyluk ship that attacked Junti’s mine.” The shikikan then asked, “Have you told the Shogun?”
His eyes met Maniv’s. They had no fear as he stated, “If we contact him without the shipment from the Orions, we are dead.”
The shikikan nodded in solemn understanding. He barked to his helmsman, “Intercept that ship!”
*****
Supplemental
Human Settlement (Tollen)
Maluria II
Karim bin Nadal looked up silently at the stars a few meters away from Sierra’s home. The Perseus Arm of the galaxy could easily be seen in the night sky. Insects sang in the tall grass nearby.
The tan-scaled doctor walked next to him.
He commented as she approached, “I forgot how beautiful it looks from behind an atmosphere. I’m not used to seeing the stars twinkle anymore.”
She looked up and commented, “There is…something about this place…these people that’s soothing.”
Karim chuckled to himself, “I don’t think our X.O. thinks so.”
“He was rather rude to them.” She added, “Not that they seemed to care.”
The security officer thought back to his high school philosophy. He quoted Marcus Aurelius, even though he knew his Arkonian shipmate wouldn’t know the reference, “Reject your sense of injury and the injury itself disappears.”
*****
Supplemental
Runabout Luger
On the Surface of Maluria II
Independence’s primary support craft lay in the shadow of the old United Earth vessel. Upon entering, Ethan activated minimal lights and climate control. There was a chill in the air. The hatch closed as he made his way to aft compartment, which held the bunk bed nook.
He prepared for bed, convinced he had these people pegged. ‘Stupid neo-aged hippies, they don’t know anything. They talk in gibberish. It’s just rhetorical nonsense. Probably do more than make clothes out of cannabis. They don’t know me.’ He rested his head on the pillow. ‘They can’t help me…’
*****
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Tahin (Affiliated with the Kyluk Empire)
Traveling near the Maluria System
The difference between Hi’ought Nausicaans and Kyluk Nausicaans were subtle, especially to outsiders. The two nation-states developed on separate continents on the homeworld. Most Kyluks were paler and their mandibles were less prominent than the Hi’ought’s.
Everyone on the Tahin was of the merchant class. The owner and administrator of the ship, Ekik, didn’t trust slaves or indentured servants.
Ekik was rather proud of himself. Emperor Kryim would surely grant him land on the Vebra coast if the Hi’oughts lost their gallicite trade with the Orions. Everything was going quite well. Starfleet would effectively end the arrangement Juhin Wi’jawk had with the mine owner.
Yes, the plan was going better than planned…until ten seconds ago.
Ekik steadied himself on a bulkhead. The tremors he felt were unmistakable effects of disruptor fire impacting the ship’s modest shields.
He looked to Gryth, the gunner that had the lowest bid, “Who is it?”
“It’s Wi’jawk’s ship. Somehow, he found out!” He added, “He’s hailing.”
The ship’s owner activated the main viewer himself. That Hi’ought pirate looked at him with a smug face. “Still trying to subvert the Shogun, I see.”
Ekik shot back, “That murderer has killed tens of thousands in his quest to say on top! We will show you how fragile your shogunate really is!”
Wi’jawk chuckled darkly, “Not today…and not by you.” He sniffed some type of substance and continued, “Stop your vessel and prepare to be boarded.”
The Kyluk was in an untenable position. His ship was a 20 year old, Yridian cargo vessel. Sure, he was able to afford some upgrades, but it was no match for Wi’jawk’s ship. The shogunate got their vessels second-hand from the Syndicate.
He weighed his options. He defiantly wouldn’t win a fight. Running was no guarantee, either. Maybe he just wanted the gallicite? Ekik offered, “I don’t have the ore anymore. Scan my ship. Confirm it.”
The pirate looked off screen. The answer didn’t seem to deter him. He looked back, “You may not have it, but you know where it went.” He leaned closer, “I look forward to making you squirm.” The channel closed.
The shaking resumed. Quickly, Ekik consulted his star charts. The closest place to hide was still the Maluria system. He ordered the course change at maximum warp.
*****
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Raaik (Affiliated with the Hi’ought Shogunate)
Traveling near the Maluria System
Shikikan Maniv reported, “They’re heading back into the system at warp six.” He added with a predatory grin, “I love it when they run.” He looked to the quartermaster with glee.
Wi’jawk was more somber, “The ship is yours. I want him alive…at least until we know where the gallicite is.”
Maniv barked the order to pursue.
END OF CHAPTER 10
I am really liking how you seemed to have explained the difference between TNG and ENT Nausicaans as being from different regions! I too am a fan of NOT erasing all of the makeup differences--if you ask me, humans are a very diverse bunch and aliens should be too! 
I also like how you seem to have given these Nausicaans more...intelligence than they were portrayed with in TNG. Though I suspect the TNG issue may have been more Nausicaan pride than anything--insisting on speaking Federation Standard without the "crutch" of a translator, perhaps?
Which brings me to my next point. I assume the Japanese terms you use are the UT trying to find the closest human referent to the actual Nausicaan terms, rather than those actually being the words used in the Nausicaan language? (For instance, in my own story, "Legate" is in fact a translation of the Cardăsda term Thăkliv.)
On to Windslow.
I think it's very telling that even though he's made a great show of not wanting or acting like he needs help, the fact that he would even think of the POSSIBILITY at the very end there speaks for itself. Maybe something IS starting in him.
(Though considering that these people somehow turned aside the Nausicaans, perhaps through means that are not natural, I'm a little concerned for him as well.)
I also like how you seem to have given these Nausicaans more...intelligence than they were portrayed with in TNG. Though I suspect the TNG issue may have been more Nausicaan pride than anything--insisting on speaking Federation Standard without the "crutch" of a translator, perhaps?
Which brings me to my next point. I assume the Japanese terms you use are the UT trying to find the closest human referent to the actual Nausicaan terms, rather than those actually being the words used in the Nausicaan language? (For instance, in my own story, "Legate" is in fact a translation of the Cardăsda term Thăkliv.)
On to Windslow.
I think it's very telling that even though he's made a great show of not wanting or acting like he needs help, the fact that he would even think of the POSSIBILITY at the very end there speaks for itself. Maybe something IS starting in him.
(Though considering that these people somehow turned aside the Nausicaans, perhaps through means that are not natural, I'm a little concerned for him as well.)
Another generational conflict among Starfleet captains. I guess we're going to see this more and more in the post-war era. Aurelia still has the tact and subtly of a sledgehammer. Good thing we know that she'll grow ... a bit.
For now her tactical experience might be more valuable. Nausicaans incoming!
For now her tactical experience might be more valuable. Nausicaans incoming!
Love the different sides to the coins
New Captain/Older Captain
Nausican factions
Windslow/more open minded Starfleet officers.
An ever more intriguing tale with lots of depth to the characters and their situations. Everyone has their motivation and party to play off against. Plus it has to all come to a head at some point down the line. I wonder will the old dog teach Aurelia a few tricks?
New Captain/Older Captain
Nausican factions
Windslow/more open minded Starfleet officers.
An ever more intriguing tale with lots of depth to the characters and their situations. Everyone has their motivation and party to play off against. Plus it has to all come to a head at some point down the line. I wonder will the old dog teach Aurelia a few tricks?
I cannot imagine how much research you put into this. I loved the philosophical discourse! Fascinating and well thought out. Reminds me of Stranger In a Strange Land. Grok? As for Windslow-he's a jerk of the first order but has potential to grow-once he opens his mind. And I love what you are doing with the Naussican culture, too. Great job!
CHAPTER 11
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Tahin (Affiliated with the Kyluk Empire)
Traveling near the Maluria System
Gryth called out over the venting gasses from an overhead pipe, “Rear shields are gone!”
The ship owner could do nothing. Fleeing the Raiik was their best chance – their best wasn’t good enough. He sat down and contemplated what the next few hours would be like…if he had a few hours.
Ekik was thrown out of his chair, surely because his port nacelle was just hit. The impact of the metal deck served to reinforce his despair. He would not get out of this. As a deckhand reported, “Warp drive is out,” Ekik smirked, ‘Of course it is you fool.’ He pushed himself up and ordered, “Turn about! Fire all weapons!”
The Kyluk watched his viewer as bolts of highly charged particles lashed out toward the oncoming ship. The disruptors were easily absorbed into the Hi’ought’s defenses.
Then came the retaliation. The Raiik opened up with Klingon-made cannons. Ekik watched the tactical overlay. He watched helplessly as his own shields dropped. Seventy-eight percent…fifty-nine…thirty-five…seven…zero.
Seconds seemed like years. The Hi’ought could beam over at anytime. There was no doubt in Ekik’s mind that the Shogunate would win the day, but that didn’t stop him from wanting to kill as many spikeheads as possible. He was surprised to find his tone calm, almost serene, “Get ready for intruders.” He unsheathed a knife with one hand and a disruptor with the other.
Most of the crew already had blades and disruptor pistols of various types. Those that didn’t rushed to find some.
A slight hum started. His crew readied there weapons. Then, pillars of orange-red light appeared. The firing began even before the Hi’oughts materialized. Two fell to the deck, dead, before the transporter effect faded. Those that formed unharmed quickly opened fire.
Ekik didn’t know exactly how many intruders there were, but they seemed to be everywhere.
Gryth threw away his weapon and pleaded to the Hi’ought. “I’m just a privateer! I have no loyalties to him!”
Ekik didn’t have time to be disgusted. He slashed the throat of a Hi’ought behind him and killed another with a well placed blast. He glanced to see Gryth and an attacker beam away. He wished he had time to kill him before he disappeared. More Hi’ought beamed in. A crewmember was killed, then another. The bridge, and probably the rest of the ship, was overrun.
The Tahin owner fell to his knees. Had he been shot? There was a warm, tingling sensation in his shoulder. His vision blurred. He fought against it, but the darkness took him, despite his fierce resolve.
*****
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Raaik (Affiliated with the Hi’ought Shogunate)
Near the Maluria System
Shikikan Maniv could not be content once the report came in that the Kyluk ship was secure. It was dangerous to engage them this close to a Starfleet vessel. Though, 1.2 light-years was well within their scanning ability, he hoped the system’s heliosphere and other intra-stellar debris obscured the weapon’s fire. “Any response from the ships in the system?”
A young Nausicaan consulted his reading and reported, “I can’t get a clear reading on them. But no ships have left the system.”
Maniv nodded, “That’s a good thing. Continue scans. If you detect movement coming from that system, tell me immediately.”
*****
In another part of the ship, Juhin Wi’jawk doled out Nausicaan-style justice.
Ekik’s return to consciousness was a jolting backhand slap to the face, made more painful by the small spikes on Hi’ought knuckles. A trait Kyluk lacked. He awoke just in time to see blood fly from his face and splatter on the deck. He was bound to a chair in a small room. His deep-sockets protected his eyes, but they were swollen so much that he could barely see. What he did see disheartened him. He wasn’t dead. For he was sure the Kyluk afterlife wouldn’t allow Hi’ought bastards. He became aware of the pain his body was in. The mercy of adrenaline hadn’t come. Perhaps Wi’jawk injected him with a suppressor. It would account for the unnatural suffering he was experiencing. Defiantly, he muttered, “I’ll never tell you where we hid the gallicite.” He managed a grin, “You’ll be killed by your own shogun.”
The comment didn’t have the desired affect. Wi’jawk laughed out loud. He violently grabbed Ekik’s jaw and held it steady – since he couldn’t – and informed him cruelly, “I already know where it is. Several of your crew proved to be…very cooperative. I’m just doing this for the fun of it.” Another hearty belly laugh followed.
Deep down, he knew the betrayal of his crew to be a probability, but he still choose outward denial, “You lie!”
Wi’jawk saw no reason not to give it to him details, “That’s what you get when you have a mercenary crew, Ekik. I know the ore is on the colony of pacifist humans. It was clever to hide it in the warp nacelle of that old ship. We would have never found it, even if we scanned the area.”
The Kyluk Nausicaan slumped his head. His plot had imploded totally.
The spikehead hellishly smirked, “I’m just trying to decide to kill you slowly or turn you over to the shogun and let him do it.” He leaned closer, “Either way, your head will end up on a pike.”
*****
Stardate: 53611.9 (12 Aug 2376)
Bolian Freighter Jolim
Traveling along Trade Routes near the Maluria System
The attack had come without warning. But Captain Lum should’ve known better. It was a classic trap. The pirates in this area had been using obsolete Romulan spatial mines for years…obsolete, but still effective.
He checked the shield status: they were holding. The mine caused enough damage to force them to impulse. His freighter had limited weapons and maneuvered like a Tellarite swamp sloth. Its one saving grace was its shields, one of the best arrays available to civilian vessels. He knew, however, in a fight they’d only buy him time; nothing more.
He didn’t entertain the hope that it was just an abandoned mine. His fears were confirmed when a Yridian-made ship dropped out of warp nearby. The pirates had come for their spoils.
His small bridge crew looked to him for courage and guidance. Captain Lum opened a Federation emergency channel, “To any Federation vessel in range: This is the Bolian cargo ship Jolim. We are under attack and require immediate assistance. Please respond.”
Lum waited. He knew several nearby merchant and passenger ships heard his hail. Once upon a time, merchant ships came to each other’s aid and forced pirates away through force of numbers. Now, with a few exceptions, everyone kept their distance when a distress call went out. Most people simply relayed the S.O.S. to Starfleet, which may or may not get there in time. It was a sad state of affairs within the merchant marine community.
Even though, the Yridian ship had modest disruptor power, they cut into his shields a bit at a time. His counter-attack wasn’t ineffective. The Jalim was giving them a bloody nose. In fact, he was mildly surprised the pirates didn’t cut their losses by now.
*****
Supplemental
USS Independence, MainBridge
In Orbit of Maluria VID
The chronometer read 02:13:09. Lights all over the ship were dimmed, but not on the bridge. The bridge never slept.
Petty Officer First Class Alex Coulter manned the security station. The tactical station was actually a podium behind the command chair. The security station was nearby, but had the advantage of having a chair to sit in. He toggled through different active scan results. He tagged a stellar radiation spike for Tang to analyze later in the morning.
Then, an icon flashed red. An emergency message was coming in. It was on a civilian channel. He turned forward, “Lieutenant Virak.”
The dark-skinned female swiveled the captain’s chair back, “Yes, Mr. Coulter.” The Vulcan also served as a security team leader during the alpha shift.
“We’re getting a distress call.”
She said in the standard Vulcan monotone, “On speakers.”
Coulter transferred the call. Lum’s disembodied voice filled the bridge. After the brief message, the noncom added, “I’ve run a detailed scan of that area. The Jolim is in close proximity to another, unregistered vessel.”
A Denobulan, Cadet Trevix, glanced back expectantly. “Should I set a course, Sir?”
The Vulcan considered a moment. “No, Cadet. Acknowledge the distress call and inform them to standby.” She touched an armrest control, “Captain Aurelia to the bridge.”
END OF CHAPTER 11
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Tahin (Affiliated with the Kyluk Empire)
Traveling near the Maluria System
Gryth called out over the venting gasses from an overhead pipe, “Rear shields are gone!”
The ship owner could do nothing. Fleeing the Raiik was their best chance – their best wasn’t good enough. He sat down and contemplated what the next few hours would be like…if he had a few hours.
Ekik was thrown out of his chair, surely because his port nacelle was just hit. The impact of the metal deck served to reinforce his despair. He would not get out of this. As a deckhand reported, “Warp drive is out,” Ekik smirked, ‘Of course it is you fool.’ He pushed himself up and ordered, “Turn about! Fire all weapons!”
The Kyluk watched his viewer as bolts of highly charged particles lashed out toward the oncoming ship. The disruptors were easily absorbed into the Hi’ought’s defenses.
Then came the retaliation. The Raiik opened up with Klingon-made cannons. Ekik watched the tactical overlay. He watched helplessly as his own shields dropped. Seventy-eight percent…fifty-nine…thirty-five…seven…zero.
Seconds seemed like years. The Hi’ought could beam over at anytime. There was no doubt in Ekik’s mind that the Shogunate would win the day, but that didn’t stop him from wanting to kill as many spikeheads as possible. He was surprised to find his tone calm, almost serene, “Get ready for intruders.” He unsheathed a knife with one hand and a disruptor with the other.
Most of the crew already had blades and disruptor pistols of various types. Those that didn’t rushed to find some.
A slight hum started. His crew readied there weapons. Then, pillars of orange-red light appeared. The firing began even before the Hi’oughts materialized. Two fell to the deck, dead, before the transporter effect faded. Those that formed unharmed quickly opened fire.
Ekik didn’t know exactly how many intruders there were, but they seemed to be everywhere.
Gryth threw away his weapon and pleaded to the Hi’ought. “I’m just a privateer! I have no loyalties to him!”
Ekik didn’t have time to be disgusted. He slashed the throat of a Hi’ought behind him and killed another with a well placed blast. He glanced to see Gryth and an attacker beam away. He wished he had time to kill him before he disappeared. More Hi’ought beamed in. A crewmember was killed, then another. The bridge, and probably the rest of the ship, was overrun.
The Tahin owner fell to his knees. Had he been shot? There was a warm, tingling sensation in his shoulder. His vision blurred. He fought against it, but the darkness took him, despite his fierce resolve.
*****
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Raaik (Affiliated with the Hi’ought Shogunate)
Near the Maluria System
Shikikan Maniv could not be content once the report came in that the Kyluk ship was secure. It was dangerous to engage them this close to a Starfleet vessel. Though, 1.2 light-years was well within their scanning ability, he hoped the system’s heliosphere and other intra-stellar debris obscured the weapon’s fire. “Any response from the ships in the system?”
A young Nausicaan consulted his reading and reported, “I can’t get a clear reading on them. But no ships have left the system.”
Maniv nodded, “That’s a good thing. Continue scans. If you detect movement coming from that system, tell me immediately.”
*****
In another part of the ship, Juhin Wi’jawk doled out Nausicaan-style justice.
Ekik’s return to consciousness was a jolting backhand slap to the face, made more painful by the small spikes on Hi’ought knuckles. A trait Kyluk lacked. He awoke just in time to see blood fly from his face and splatter on the deck. He was bound to a chair in a small room. His deep-sockets protected his eyes, but they were swollen so much that he could barely see. What he did see disheartened him. He wasn’t dead. For he was sure the Kyluk afterlife wouldn’t allow Hi’ought bastards. He became aware of the pain his body was in. The mercy of adrenaline hadn’t come. Perhaps Wi’jawk injected him with a suppressor. It would account for the unnatural suffering he was experiencing. Defiantly, he muttered, “I’ll never tell you where we hid the gallicite.” He managed a grin, “You’ll be killed by your own shogun.”
The comment didn’t have the desired affect. Wi’jawk laughed out loud. He violently grabbed Ekik’s jaw and held it steady – since he couldn’t – and informed him cruelly, “I already know where it is. Several of your crew proved to be…very cooperative. I’m just doing this for the fun of it.” Another hearty belly laugh followed.
Deep down, he knew the betrayal of his crew to be a probability, but he still choose outward denial, “You lie!”
Wi’jawk saw no reason not to give it to him details, “That’s what you get when you have a mercenary crew, Ekik. I know the ore is on the colony of pacifist humans. It was clever to hide it in the warp nacelle of that old ship. We would have never found it, even if we scanned the area.”
The Kyluk Nausicaan slumped his head. His plot had imploded totally.
The spikehead hellishly smirked, “I’m just trying to decide to kill you slowly or turn you over to the shogun and let him do it.” He leaned closer, “Either way, your head will end up on a pike.”
*****
Stardate: 53611.9 (12 Aug 2376)
Bolian Freighter Jolim
Traveling along Trade Routes near the Maluria System
The attack had come without warning. But Captain Lum should’ve known better. It was a classic trap. The pirates in this area had been using obsolete Romulan spatial mines for years…obsolete, but still effective.
He checked the shield status: they were holding. The mine caused enough damage to force them to impulse. His freighter had limited weapons and maneuvered like a Tellarite swamp sloth. Its one saving grace was its shields, one of the best arrays available to civilian vessels. He knew, however, in a fight they’d only buy him time; nothing more.
He didn’t entertain the hope that it was just an abandoned mine. His fears were confirmed when a Yridian-made ship dropped out of warp nearby. The pirates had come for their spoils.
His small bridge crew looked to him for courage and guidance. Captain Lum opened a Federation emergency channel, “To any Federation vessel in range: This is the Bolian cargo ship Jolim. We are under attack and require immediate assistance. Please respond.”
Lum waited. He knew several nearby merchant and passenger ships heard his hail. Once upon a time, merchant ships came to each other’s aid and forced pirates away through force of numbers. Now, with a few exceptions, everyone kept their distance when a distress call went out. Most people simply relayed the S.O.S. to Starfleet, which may or may not get there in time. It was a sad state of affairs within the merchant marine community.
Even though, the Yridian ship had modest disruptor power, they cut into his shields a bit at a time. His counter-attack wasn’t ineffective. The Jalim was giving them a bloody nose. In fact, he was mildly surprised the pirates didn’t cut their losses by now.
*****
Supplemental
USS Independence, MainBridge
In Orbit of Maluria VID
The chronometer read 02:13:09. Lights all over the ship were dimmed, but not on the bridge. The bridge never slept.
Petty Officer First Class Alex Coulter manned the security station. The tactical station was actually a podium behind the command chair. The security station was nearby, but had the advantage of having a chair to sit in. He toggled through different active scan results. He tagged a stellar radiation spike for Tang to analyze later in the morning.
Then, an icon flashed red. An emergency message was coming in. It was on a civilian channel. He turned forward, “Lieutenant Virak.”
The dark-skinned female swiveled the captain’s chair back, “Yes, Mr. Coulter.” The Vulcan also served as a security team leader during the alpha shift.
“We’re getting a distress call.”
She said in the standard Vulcan monotone, “On speakers.”
Coulter transferred the call. Lum’s disembodied voice filled the bridge. After the brief message, the noncom added, “I’ve run a detailed scan of that area. The Jolim is in close proximity to another, unregistered vessel.”
A Denobulan, Cadet Trevix, glanced back expectantly. “Should I set a course, Sir?”
The Vulcan considered a moment. “No, Cadet. Acknowledge the distress call and inform them to standby.” She touched an armrest control, “Captain Aurelia to the bridge.”
END OF CHAPTER 11
Weird...isn't that a violation of procedure not to respond to a distress call? Or is it just that she's waiting for Aurelia's determination?
And Dnoth...please don't undersell your own work! You've captured my interest and it's very clear you did a lot of thought, so I think you're doing very well.
And Dnoth...please don't undersell your own work! You've captured my interest and it's very clear you did a lot of thought, so I think you're doing very well.
Oops, the Nausicaans are going to wish they were crawling in whatever primordial soup they were spawned from once Aurelia gets through with 'em 
The Nausicans are playing are a dangerous game by attacking the ship when the Indy is about. Wondering how this is going to pan out. Not good for the nausicans I'd imagine.
Interesting and more interesting. I enjoyed the generational conflict between the captains as well. As for the Nausicaans, you're doing an excellent job with them.
CHAPTER 12
Supplemental
USS Independence, Main Bridge
In Orbit of Maluria VID
Captain Aurelia strode on to the bridge barefoot. She wore only black sleeping pants and a matching sports bra. Modesty wasn’t something she was concerned about. After being briefed she opened a channel with the Rhode Island. She wasn’t sure, but she thought she caught Killian’s eyes glance down. She chuckled internally. Quickly, more urgent matters took over. “My orders were to protect you. I don’t feel comfortable leaving you and the miners alone for 16 hours.” It would take that long to travel to the besieged freighter and back.
The elder captain waved her off, “We’ll be fine. The R.I. isn’t totally toothless. Starfleet was being a bit overprotective when they assigned you to us anyway.”
Sintina still hesitated.
Killian added with a semi-playful smirk, “Let me put it this way: if you don’t help them, we will.”
Normally, Aurelia would take offence at such a comment, but she had grown fond of the man. It allowed her to take it as the helpful kick in the pants it was intended to be.
She considered. Fleet wide policy demanded they assist a ship in distress if the mission allowed. She also liked the idea of seeing some action. Besides which, Killian had made the decision easy for her. “Alright,” she wagged her finger at her counterpart, “but don’t you get attacked while we’re gone.”
Jason grinned, “We’ll do our best,” and closed the channel.
Captain Aurelia put on her warface and ordered, “Cadet, lay in a course and engage at warp nine.”
*****
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Raaik (Affiliated with the Hi’ought Shogunate)
Near the Maluria System
Maniv hovered over the scanner. Finally, he saw what he was waiting for. He turned back, “The attack cruiser is heading for the Tahin.”
Wi’jawk’s mandibles clicked together with satisfaction. “Good.”
“We should wait a few hours before heading into the system.” The shikikan added, “I am surprised the Kyluk crew didn’t betray you.”
“They wouldn’t dare,” he responded with confidence. “I told them I injected them with a dissolving, biochemical explosive and that if they don’t get the neutralizer from me in three days, it will kill them.”
Maniv was impressed, “I had no idea you had such devices.”
The Nausicaan spread his mandibles, “I don’t. They’re too expensive...but there’s no need to tell the Kyluk that.”
Both broke out into laughter.
*****
Supplemental
Human Settlement
Maluria II (Tollen)
Dawn had come to the village. Karim, Sierra, and Neale sat outside enjoying a breakfast of assorted fruits. Zo’Kama found a large boulder nearby and was sunning herself.
The tactical officer took a bite of a strawberry, which grew quite well here, and asked, “I know I’ve heard that greeting you use before, but I can’t remember what it means.”
“Namasté” said Neale. He went on, “It’s an old Sanskrit word. It means: the divine within me honors the divine with you.”
Sierra elaborated, “It serves as a reminder to us that what we see is not what we are. We are much more than that. We are all part of a whole and the apparent separation is merely an illusion of perspective.”
Karim never missed an opportunity to have a philosophical debate. He asked, “How can you deny we are separate beings? What you’re talking about is the removal of individualism. We aren’t Borg, after all. We value our individual traits.”
In her constant, serene voice, Sierra explained, “Individuals are indeed different from one another, but differences don’t imply separation. You are confusing the two.”
Neale chimed in, “Your hands are different from your feet, yet you consider both to be part of you.”
Bin Nadal shook his head, “I’m sorry, I’m just having trouble believing that a Jem’hadar and me are parts of the same thing.”
“That is because your definition of ‘you’ is narrow,” responded the woman. She took a sip of water, “We use words like ‘I,’ and ‘me’ still because they are useful, but we have come to redefine these words. When I use ‘I,’ I don’t mean what most others mean. I define myself as this particular individual awareness.”
“So you are separate,” Karim said good-humoredly.
She restated, “No, simply a different part of the one, universal awareness. We use the word ‘Oneself’ to refer to these more limited awarnesses.”
Karim loved playing devil’s advocate. “If these…Oneselves are part of the universal awareness, why are they more limited than the whole?”
Neale leaned in and fielded the question, “Imagine if you were the only thing in existence. There was nothing else but you. How could you experience what you are?”
The Starfleet officer thought hard for a moment. It was a paradox. Finally, he said, “I couldn’t. If I were everything, there would be nothing to compare myself to.”
Sierra smiled wide, “Exactly, which is why the universe compartmentalized itself into smaller, more limited units – us – in order to experience what it was.”
Bin Nadal cocked his head, “Interesting theory. Your religion reminds me of Taoism or Mizarian Ona.”
“It is not a religion,” corrected Sierra, “It is an understanding. Religions are often concerned with being ‘right.’ An understanding has no such agenda.”
*****
Supplemental
USS Rhode Island, Main Bridge
In Orbit of Maluria VID
Jason Killian walked onto the utilitarian bridge from his small ready room. “Confirm your readings, Mister.”
A lieutenant looked back from his station, “Confirmed. An Orion destroyer is entering the far side of the system.”
“Can you determine its course?”
“It’s heading for the second planet, sir.”
Killian cursed to himself, “Damn the timing.” A terrible thought occurred to him. Maybe it wasn’t just bad timing? He barked to his security chief, “How far out is the Indy?”
The gold-trimmed officer responded, “Point eight-seven light-years. It’d take them five hours to get back, sir.”
The captain snapped into action, “Contact the Independence away team on the planet via the relay. Tell them to expect company.”
“Aye sir.”
“How quickly could we reach the second planet?”
“It’s on the far side of the star. It’d be an eight hour trip at full impulse, Captain.”
The silver-haired captain thought about the situation. Could this all be a ploy to leave the mine unattended? He said, almost to himself, “This just won’t do.”
END OF CHAPTER 12
Supplemental
USS Independence, Main Bridge
In Orbit of Maluria VID
Captain Aurelia strode on to the bridge barefoot. She wore only black sleeping pants and a matching sports bra. Modesty wasn’t something she was concerned about. After being briefed she opened a channel with the Rhode Island. She wasn’t sure, but she thought she caught Killian’s eyes glance down. She chuckled internally. Quickly, more urgent matters took over. “My orders were to protect you. I don’t feel comfortable leaving you and the miners alone for 16 hours.” It would take that long to travel to the besieged freighter and back.
The elder captain waved her off, “We’ll be fine. The R.I. isn’t totally toothless. Starfleet was being a bit overprotective when they assigned you to us anyway.”
Sintina still hesitated.
Killian added with a semi-playful smirk, “Let me put it this way: if you don’t help them, we will.”
Normally, Aurelia would take offence at such a comment, but she had grown fond of the man. It allowed her to take it as the helpful kick in the pants it was intended to be.
She considered. Fleet wide policy demanded they assist a ship in distress if the mission allowed. She also liked the idea of seeing some action. Besides which, Killian had made the decision easy for her. “Alright,” she wagged her finger at her counterpart, “but don’t you get attacked while we’re gone.”
Jason grinned, “We’ll do our best,” and closed the channel.
Captain Aurelia put on her warface and ordered, “Cadet, lay in a course and engage at warp nine.”
*****
Supplemental
Nausicaan Raider Raaik (Affiliated with the Hi’ought Shogunate)
Near the Maluria System
Maniv hovered over the scanner. Finally, he saw what he was waiting for. He turned back, “The attack cruiser is heading for the Tahin.”
Wi’jawk’s mandibles clicked together with satisfaction. “Good.”
“We should wait a few hours before heading into the system.” The shikikan added, “I am surprised the Kyluk crew didn’t betray you.”
“They wouldn’t dare,” he responded with confidence. “I told them I injected them with a dissolving, biochemical explosive and that if they don’t get the neutralizer from me in three days, it will kill them.”
Maniv was impressed, “I had no idea you had such devices.”
The Nausicaan spread his mandibles, “I don’t. They’re too expensive...but there’s no need to tell the Kyluk that.”
Both broke out into laughter.
*****
Supplemental
Human Settlement
Maluria II (Tollen)
Dawn had come to the village. Karim, Sierra, and Neale sat outside enjoying a breakfast of assorted fruits. Zo’Kama found a large boulder nearby and was sunning herself.
The tactical officer took a bite of a strawberry, which grew quite well here, and asked, “I know I’ve heard that greeting you use before, but I can’t remember what it means.”
“Namasté” said Neale. He went on, “It’s an old Sanskrit word. It means: the divine within me honors the divine with you.”
Sierra elaborated, “It serves as a reminder to us that what we see is not what we are. We are much more than that. We are all part of a whole and the apparent separation is merely an illusion of perspective.”
Karim never missed an opportunity to have a philosophical debate. He asked, “How can you deny we are separate beings? What you’re talking about is the removal of individualism. We aren’t Borg, after all. We value our individual traits.”
In her constant, serene voice, Sierra explained, “Individuals are indeed different from one another, but differences don’t imply separation. You are confusing the two.”
Neale chimed in, “Your hands are different from your feet, yet you consider both to be part of you.”
Bin Nadal shook his head, “I’m sorry, I’m just having trouble believing that a Jem’hadar and me are parts of the same thing.”
“That is because your definition of ‘you’ is narrow,” responded the woman. She took a sip of water, “We use words like ‘I,’ and ‘me’ still because they are useful, but we have come to redefine these words. When I use ‘I,’ I don’t mean what most others mean. I define myself as this particular individual awareness.”
“So you are separate,” Karim said good-humoredly.
She restated, “No, simply a different part of the one, universal awareness. We use the word ‘Oneself’ to refer to these more limited awarnesses.”
Karim loved playing devil’s advocate. “If these…Oneselves are part of the universal awareness, why are they more limited than the whole?”
Neale leaned in and fielded the question, “Imagine if you were the only thing in existence. There was nothing else but you. How could you experience what you are?”
The Starfleet officer thought hard for a moment. It was a paradox. Finally, he said, “I couldn’t. If I were everything, there would be nothing to compare myself to.”
Sierra smiled wide, “Exactly, which is why the universe compartmentalized itself into smaller, more limited units – us – in order to experience what it was.”
Bin Nadal cocked his head, “Interesting theory. Your religion reminds me of Taoism or Mizarian Ona.”
“It is not a religion,” corrected Sierra, “It is an understanding. Religions are often concerned with being ‘right.’ An understanding has no such agenda.”
*****
Supplemental
USS Rhode Island, Main Bridge
In Orbit of Maluria VID
Jason Killian walked onto the utilitarian bridge from his small ready room. “Confirm your readings, Mister.”
A lieutenant looked back from his station, “Confirmed. An Orion destroyer is entering the far side of the system.”
“Can you determine its course?”
“It’s heading for the second planet, sir.”
Killian cursed to himself, “Damn the timing.” A terrible thought occurred to him. Maybe it wasn’t just bad timing? He barked to his security chief, “How far out is the Indy?”
The gold-trimmed officer responded, “Point eight-seven light-years. It’d take them five hours to get back, sir.”
The captain snapped into action, “Contact the Independence away team on the planet via the relay. Tell them to expect company.”
“Aye sir.”
“How quickly could we reach the second planet?”
“It’s on the far side of the star. It’d be an eight hour trip at full impulse, Captain.”
The silver-haired captain thought about the situation. Could this all be a ploy to leave the mine unattended? He said, almost to himself, “This just won’t do.”
END OF CHAPTER 12
Turns out Nausicaans are also quite cunning in their ways. Who would have thought?
Clearly not Aurelia and Killian. Now, is the away team going to be on their own against a pack of smart and aggressive Nausicaans? If so, don't count on much help from the local philosophing space hippies. Unless they have a secret ...
This is all very exciting, isn't it?
Clearly not Aurelia and Killian. Now, is the away team going to be on their own against a pack of smart and aggressive Nausicaans? If so, don't count on much help from the local philosophing space hippies. Unless they have a secret ...
This is all very exciting, isn't it?
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