USS ANUBIS - Mission 21
The Sisterly Anomaly
The Sisterly Anomaly
POST INDEX
| Post # | Character | Title |
| 001 | Morningstar | Soul-Touched Erik reconnects with the ANUBIS |
| 002 | Ya'Han/Enel | The Crimson Hurricane Ya'Han trains in a simulation chamber |
| 003 | Gemma | Observations From the ICG, Gemma watches Noiva |
| 004 | Stark | Emotionally Confused Jayson trains alone in the Gymnasium |
| 005 | Maya | The Devil is in the Details Maya investigates a strange celestial anomaly |
| 006 | Lopez | Echoes and Shadows Shar'El tasks Adriana with the Staff Psych Eval |
| 007 | Enel/Andersson | Pains and Aches Zub goes to sickbay and speaks with Sofia |
| 008 | Lopez/Ya'Han | Two For One Session Jayson and Ya'Han see Adriana for their eval |
| 009 | Gemma | Group Session Gemma goes to see Adriana |
| 010 | Shar'El | Introspective Shar'El thinks about the crew and visits Adriana |
| 011 | Maya/Lopez | Comparing Thoughts Maya and Adriana study the anomaly |
| 012 | Lopez/Enel | Unexpected Session Zub runs into Adriana |
| 013 | Noiva | Shadows and Orders Koniki gives Ava her orders |
| 014 | Morningstar | Mission Briefing The senior staff are told about the anomaly |
| 015 | Noiva | Dual Roles Brooke goes to see Adriana |
| 016 | Shar'El | Back In Action The ANUBIS leaves NEW ALEXANDRIA |
| 017 | Gemma | Shadows in the Logs Gemma is susecious of Noiva |
| 018 | Lopez | Shadows of Connections Adriana has a sisterly chat with Amanda |
| 019 | Enel/Ya'Han | Hunting Shadows Zub and Ya'Han go after Gemma |
| 020 | Noiva | Shadowed Calculations Noiva reports on her failed attack on Gemma |
| 021 | Lopez | Fractured Minds, Fract... Adriana tries to help Gemma |
| 022 | Gemma | Together, As One Gemma recuperates from the attack |
| 023 | Gemma/Enel | A Glimpse Within Zub escorts Gemma back to the IGC |
| 024 | Maya | Shifting Alignments Gemma visits Maya in Stellar Cartography |
| 025 | Lopez | Echoes of Amanda Adriana goes for breakfast and sees Amanda |
| 026 | Shar'El | Ghosts and Shadows Shar'El report to Erik about odd sightings |
| 027 | Stark/Ya'Han | Shadows of the Past Jayson sees the ghost of his former wife |
| 028 | Andersson/Bruxa | Examination, Evaluation Jayson is brought to Sickbay |
| 029 | Ya'Han/Enel | Beyond the Glass Ya'Han and Zub check in on Jayson |
| 030 | Gemma | Inner Debates Gemma has a conflicting inner debate |
| 031 | Morningstar | Mission Briefing - Take 2 More information is given, Adriana reinstated |
| 032 | Lopez | Questions Adriana chats with Amanda about what happened |
| 033 | Ya'Han | Tactical Review Ya'Han analyzes the situation, and Jayson |
| 034 | Maya | Unexpected Discovery Maya discover a small ship, adrift |
| 035 | Shar'El | Change of Plan The ANUBIS goes to help the crippled ship |
| 036 | Enel | Move 'Em Out Zub dispatches the MACO to Shuttle Bay 1 |
| 037 | Stark/A'Janni | Threading the Eye of... The ANUBIS maneuvers to save the ship |
| 038 | Ya'Han/Enel | Conflagration Zub save the ship's only passenger |
| 039 | Andersson/Bruxa | Between Life and Oblivion Medical team fights for Zub's life |
| 040 | Gemma | A Name in the Ashes Gemma investigates the unknown woman |
| 041 | Lopez | Shadows in the Light Amanda is troubled at the sight of Christie |
| 042 | Ya'Han | By the Sphere's Edge Another vessel is found near he anomaly |
| 043 | Gemma | A Sphere of Trouble The ANUBIS is boarded by the Tzenkethi |
| 044 | Stark | Fears and Admiration Jayson watches as the staff gets ready |
| 045 | Ya'Han/Shar'El | Bridge of Blood and... Battle on the bridge |
| 046 | Noiva/Gemma | When Hope Bleeds, Pt 1 Gemma arrives in Sickbay |
| 047 | Gemma | When Hope Bleeds, Pt 2 The battle ends in a horrific way |
| 048 | Shar'El | Aftermath Shar'El gives a status report to Erik |
| 049 | Lopez | The Pain of Loss Adriana contemplates their loss |
| 050 | Maya | The Impossible Question Maya speaks with Shar'El |
| 051 | Enel/Gemma | A Shared Moment Enel and Gemma share a moment in Sickbay |
| 052 | Ya'Han/Stark | Returning to Duty Ya'Han and Jayson return to the bridge |
| 053 | Shar'El | When a People Fall The crew suffers an unexpected blow |
| 054 | Gemma/Lopez | The Terran Enigma Gemma and Ava almost come to blows |
| 055 | Maya | Spherical Mystery Maya noticed lights from inside the sphere |
| Post # | Character | Title |
| 056 | Morningstar | A Dream Beyond Dreams Erik experiences a fight for life and death |
| 057 | Shar'El | Mind and Soul Shar'El orders the ANUBIS into the sphere |
| 058 | Ya'Han/A'Janni | Body and Heart The ANUBIS enters the sphere and fights |
| 059 | Lopez/Maya | Dreams and Whispers Adriana goes to see Maya |
| 060 | Stark | Memories and Sorrows Jayson goes to Sickbay for a physical |
| 061 | Morningstar | Duties and Responsibil... Erik briefs the crew |
| 062 | Gemma | Names and Secrets Gemma discovers a new persona |
| 063 | Enel | Victim and Villain Zub deals with a troubled Gemma |
| 064 | Noiva | Tests and Results Noiva reports to Koniki |
| 065 | Andersson | Dreams and Hopes Sofia speaks with Cristtiane |
| 066 | Stark | Courage and Unity Final check for the ANUBIS |
| 067 | Maya | Dimensional Shapes The ANUBIS finds a new planet |
| 068 | Lopez | Sisterly Bond Adriana physically feels Amanda |
| 069 | Gemma | Unseen Enemies The away team arrives on the planet |
| 070 | Noiva | Hunting The Hunter The away team enters the pyramid |
| 071 | Ya'Han | Pyramids and Shadows Contact with the away team is lost |
| 073 | Lopez | Shadow Legacy Amanda leads the team to a pod room |
| 073 | Gemma | Pyramids and Shadows Gemma has an internal conflict |
| 074 | Gemma/A’Janni/Enel | Shadow Glow The away team uncover a Yautja |
| 075 | Noiva | Matrix of Shadow Ava studies Gemma's interactions |
| 076 | Ya'Han | Fear of Shadow Ya'Han is obsessed with the Lokustaar |
| 077 | Shar'El | Into the Shadow The team ventures deeper into the pyramid |
| 078 | Gemma | Voices From The Shadows Gemma struggles with new information |
| 079 | A'Janni/Enel | Rabbit Hole A'Janni and Zub fall into a trap |
| 080 | Ya'Han | Haunting Shadows Ya'Han is taken to Sickbay |
| 081 | Andersson | Mind Shadows Sofia examines Ya'Han |
| 082 | Shar'El | Conflicting Shadows The away team contemplates their situation |
| 083 | Noiva | Whispers in the Shadows Ava further suspects Gemma |
| 084 | Lopez | Something Hiding in... Amanda suddenly vanishes |
| 085 | Gemma | Shadows Within Shadows The away team enters the Matrix |
| 086 | A'Janni | Danger Comes in Many... The first test for the away team |
| 087 | Morningstar | Shadow Revenge Erik visits Sickbay |
| 088 | Andersson | Neural Analysis Sofia figures out the neural virus |
| 089 | Noiva | Trials of the Matrix Ava continues to doubt Gemma |
| 090 | Gemma/Enel | Trial by Shadow The away team enter the building |
| 091 | Lopez | Real Memories Adriana and Amanda are reunited |
| 092 | Gemma | Storm on the Horizon Gemma has an internal confrontation |
| 093 | Gemma/Enel | Threadbare Zub shares a moment with Gemma |
| 094 | Shar'El | Will to Fight The away team convinces others to help |
| 095 | A'Janni | Strength and Honor The Matrix fights back |
| 096 | Ya'Han | Shadow Fighting The ANUBIS opposes the Lokustaar |
| 097 | Lopez | Dreams no More The away team leaves the Matrix |
| 098 | Gemma | Battle of the Unseen Gemma discovers a new ability |
| 099 | Noiva | Battle of Convictions Ava debates as to what she needs to do |
| 100 | Shar'El | Rescued from the Shadows The first set of Terrans are rescued |
| 101 | Lopez | The Second Pyramid The away team arrives at the 2nd pyramid |
| 102 | Gemma | Echoes of the Matrix Christie and the second group is rescued |
| 103 | Cristhiane/Morningstar | Fears and Shadows Cristhiane is anxious about Christie's return |
| 104 | Gemma/Enel | Strike 3 The away team arrives late at the 3rd pyramid |
| 105 | Ya'Han | Plan B The ANUBIS finds a way to help the away team |
| 106 | Lopez | Standing Still Adriana is frozen by the thought of losing Amanda |
| 107 | Enel | Bugle Call Reinforcements arrive on the planet |
| 108 | Noiva | Operative Connection Ava and Gemma share a moment |
##########
"Soul-Touched"
##########
"The soul is a vessel, etched by the passage of time. Every place visited, every person met, every event endured, leaves an indelible mark. These imprints, both subtle and profound, shape the tapestry of our being."
-- Bornodin belief
--==/\==--
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 1, Captain's Ready Room
Stardate: 44351.1415
The cold, unforgiving vacuum inside the docking area of the NEW ALEXANDRIA base pressed against the viewport of the Captain's Ready Room. Erik Morningstar, Captain of the USS ANUBIS, stood there, his gaze fixed on a set of lights beyond the docking areas of the other SCARAB-Class vessels. A familiar feeling, a mix of anticipation and dread, washed over him -- It was time to return to the chaos beyond the protection and isolation provided by the walls of the ultra-secret base.
--==/\==--
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 4, Forward Port Airlock
Stardate: 44351.1425
Donning one of the EVA suits, the Native American stepped out onto the ship’s outer deck. The cold, metallic hull welcomed him, its black bio-regenerative surface grounding him as he knelt to trace a familiar scar. A pang coursed through his soul as he traced a scratch on the hull, a mark left by a previous mission, a testament to the ship’s long and storied history. The ANUBIS, too, bore its marks, each one an etching on its own soul—a tapestry woven from countless missions.
"Ready for another journey?" he murmured, his voice a whisper lost in the void. The question asked of both the ship and himself. "Every star, every planet, every encounter - it all leaves its mark." At that moment, a profound connection formed, a bond between man and machine. The ship, a vessel of steel and dreams, had been his constant companion, his second home. Erik grinned to himself as he thought of Sonja and the unique attachments people like them developed with their ship. There was something about being an engineer that they never covered at the Academy, something that extended well beyond the knowledge of the systems. Ships, like the people aboard them, possessed a unique and special soul that carried with it the imprint of the hardships they had faced over their countless missions
Erik closed his eyes, letting the silence of space envelop him. He thought of the crew, his family, the ones who shared his dreams, his fears, and his unwavering dedication to the Federation. Together, they had faced countless challenges, overcome insurmountable odds, and forged an unbreakable bond.
With a deep breath, he rose, his determination renewed. The future, uncertain and fraught with peril, stretched out before them like a vast, star-studded expanse. But Erik, with his unwavering spirit and the support of his crew, was ready to face whatever challenges may come.
=/\= Ani to Captain Morningstar, =/\= The voice of the ship's robotic avatar shattered the peaceful solitude the Native American was enjoying. The purple-haired woman was, as Sonja often described her, the ship made flesh, not that the android possessed actual flesh, but the facsimile was rather impressive, just like the avatar herself and the ship she was an extension of.
"What can I do for you Ani?" Morningstar asked, almost certain that he already knew the answer.
=/\= Admiral Koniki is looking for you, =/\= Ani said, her tone as crisp as the vacuum around them.
Erik sighed. "Of course he is. No rest for the weary. I’m on my way," Erik said, his voice carrying a weight that was neither weariness nor defeat. "It’s time to return this ship and its crew to the stars."
--==(/\)==--
Francois Charette
Captain Erik Morningstar
Commanding Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
--
"I used to think it was awful that life was so unfair. Then I thought, wouldn't it be much worse if life were fair and all the terrible things that happen to us come because we actually deserve them. So now I take great comfort in the general hostility and unfairness of the universe."
- Marcus Cole, Babylon 5
"Soul-Touched"
##########
"The soul is a vessel, etched by the passage of time. Every place visited, every person met, every event endured, leaves an indelible mark. These imprints, both subtle and profound, shape the tapestry of our being."
-- Bornodin belief
--==/\==--
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 1, Captain's Ready Room
Stardate: 44351.1415
The cold, unforgiving vacuum inside the docking area of the NEW ALEXANDRIA base pressed against the viewport of the Captain's Ready Room. Erik Morningstar, Captain of the USS ANUBIS, stood there, his gaze fixed on a set of lights beyond the docking areas of the other SCARAB-Class vessels. A familiar feeling, a mix of anticipation and dread, washed over him -- It was time to return to the chaos beyond the protection and isolation provided by the walls of the ultra-secret base.
--==/\==--
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 4, Forward Port Airlock
Stardate: 44351.1425
Donning one of the EVA suits, the Native American stepped out onto the ship’s outer deck. The cold, metallic hull welcomed him, its black bio-regenerative surface grounding him as he knelt to trace a familiar scar. A pang coursed through his soul as he traced a scratch on the hull, a mark left by a previous mission, a testament to the ship’s long and storied history. The ANUBIS, too, bore its marks, each one an etching on its own soul—a tapestry woven from countless missions.
"Ready for another journey?" he murmured, his voice a whisper lost in the void. The question asked of both the ship and himself. "Every star, every planet, every encounter - it all leaves its mark." At that moment, a profound connection formed, a bond between man and machine. The ship, a vessel of steel and dreams, had been his constant companion, his second home. Erik grinned to himself as he thought of Sonja and the unique attachments people like them developed with their ship. There was something about being an engineer that they never covered at the Academy, something that extended well beyond the knowledge of the systems. Ships, like the people aboard them, possessed a unique and special soul that carried with it the imprint of the hardships they had faced over their countless missions
Erik closed his eyes, letting the silence of space envelop him. He thought of the crew, his family, the ones who shared his dreams, his fears, and his unwavering dedication to the Federation. Together, they had faced countless challenges, overcome insurmountable odds, and forged an unbreakable bond.
With a deep breath, he rose, his determination renewed. The future, uncertain and fraught with peril, stretched out before them like a vast, star-studded expanse. But Erik, with his unwavering spirit and the support of his crew, was ready to face whatever challenges may come.
=/\= Ani to Captain Morningstar, =/\= The voice of the ship's robotic avatar shattered the peaceful solitude the Native American was enjoying. The purple-haired woman was, as Sonja often described her, the ship made flesh, not that the android possessed actual flesh, but the facsimile was rather impressive, just like the avatar herself and the ship she was an extension of.
"What can I do for you Ani?" Morningstar asked, almost certain that he already knew the answer.
=/\= Admiral Koniki is looking for you, =/\= Ani said, her tone as crisp as the vacuum around them.
Erik sighed. "Of course he is. No rest for the weary. I’m on my way," Erik said, his voice carrying a weight that was neither weariness nor defeat. "It’s time to return this ship and its crew to the stars."
--==(/\)==--
Francois Charette
Captain Erik Morningstar
Commanding Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
--
"I used to think it was awful that life was so unfair. Then I thought, wouldn't it be much worse if life were fair and all the terrible things that happen to us come because we actually deserve them. So now I take great comfort in the general hostility and unfairness of the universe."
- Marcus Cole, Babylon 5
-=-=-
The Crimson Hurricane
Previous post: "Soul-Touched” by Francois
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck A-5, Holographic Simulation Chambers 2
Stardate: 44351.1530
The nightmarish mechanical room echoed with the rhythmic clang of shifting pillars. A solitary figure stood at the center, a charming silhouette of poised determination against a background of near absolute metallic mayhem, her vibrant red hair flowing like liquid fire with every precise motion.
Her breathing was steady, slow, and controlled, matching the cadence of her beating heart. As a pillar jutted toward her at an alarming speed, she twisted gracefully, the maneuver a seamless blend of strength and fluidity. Her crimson hair fanned out, a vibrant halo of motion, before settling as her feet touched down, perfectly balanced.
The next moment brought a barrage of attacks as pillars came at her in synchronized chaos. Yet, her sharp, dark eyes held an unwavering focus. She dodged the first, ducking low with feline grace, before spinning up and over the second. Her body twisted in midair, perfectly displaying the agility she’d honed through years of rigorous training.
A powerful leap sent her to another part of the platform, her foot slamming onto a glowing marker with a satisfying chime. A triumphant grin flickered across her lips before she turned, fists raised, ready for the next phase. In that momentary reprieve, the Nylaan's thoughts drifted to the training sessions she used to take part in on NYLA IV. In another time, in another world, in another reality, her father might have actually been proud of her for being who she was today. Alas, Ya'Han knew that this was not nor would ever be the case. The momentary distraction ended when another pillar raced in her direction.
Suddenly, an upward thrust of a metallic arm shot toward her torso. This time, she didn’t dodge. Instead, her hands moved faster than the eye could follow, gripping the arm mid-swing and using its momentum to propel herself upward. The effort displayed her strength in raw, unfiltered form, muscles taut, yet elegant as she vaulted onto the arm before leaping to a nearby platform.
The cycle continued for what felt like an eternity, each moment more demanding than the last. Sweat shimmered on her brow, but there was no hesitation in her movements. With every shift, twist, and leap, the passion and discipline she poured into her combat training became more evident. This was more than practice; it was art. Every strike, every dodge, every calculated response was a testament to the unyielding warrior she had become.
As the final alarm blared, the pillars came to a halt, signaling the end of the sequence. The Sec/Tac stood amidst the motionless chaos, her chest rising and falling steadily as she worked to recover. A fiery glow seemed to emanate from her, her red hair still in motion, curling slightly in damp strands across her face and shoulders.
Her training was complete for the moment, yet her mind remained sharp, already preparing for the next challenge. For Ya’Han, perfection was not the goal, it was the journey. And in this moment, with every nerve singing in triumph, she embraced the truth of what her training represented: strength, freedom, and the ever-burning flame of her own resilience.
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Array Section, Deck A-5, Holographic Simulation Chambers 2, Corridor
Standing 7-feet-tall, brown and scaly, the Voth hovered a clawed finger over the holodeck’s call button. His other three-fingered hand held the long shaft of a Vulcan lirpa with a razor sharp fan-shaped blade on one end and a club at the other.
The indicator on the console was deep red and quickly flashing “In Use” in every script of the known galaxy. He knew it meant the Nylaan Security Chief with kaleidoscopic hair was inside drilling her self-defense past perfection. She could be hostile when disturbed.
He pressed the call button. “Lieutenant Ya’Han, this is Lieutenant JG Zub Enel. I want to beat you with a stick.”
The holodeck doors gave a beep and a sigh as they opened a crack. The androgynous voice of Ani, the ANUBIS AI said, =/\= Warning. Safety protocols are disabled. Injury or death is possible while using this simulation. Enter at your own risk. Please acknowledge. =/\=
“Yes. Acknowledged. Let me enter.”
The doors slid fully apart. The scent of metal and Ya’Han’s sweat washed over Zub Enel’s sensitive nose. He could tell she’d been working herself hard. Yes but, he was willing to bet she could fight him even harder.
Zub stepped inside and the doors slid shut. He puzzled at all the odd floor-to-ceiling metal pillars and protuberances, many at crazy angles. It looked like he was in some bizarre engine room. The shapely Security Chief was nowhere to be seen. Realizing she was ready for him, he felt he’d just stepped into the den of a lioness while holding one of her squalling cubs by its tail.
His golden-eyed gaze flashed over all the gleaming shapes and deep shadows. Not a hint of her. That could only mean… He folded his legs and ducked for all he was worth, so low his bottom hit the deck.
Moments earlier, the sparring session had reached an intense peak. Ya'Han, light on her feet and brimming with confidence and energy, had launched an elegant spinning kick aimed at Zub’s torso. However, in his unexpected nimbleness for such a massive frame, Zub dodged the attack, causing her to miss the intended mark. The momentum of her attack carried her forward slightly off balance for only a split second before she landed into a new battle-ready posture.
Now standing at the ready, Ya'Han took in the scene before her. Zub’s clawed hands pressed against the floor, his jaw tilted as he glared upward, a point of view that he was not at all used to.
Her breathing was even, calm, steady. Years of training ensured she conserved her energy even in such rigorous situations. Despite the miss, her stance revealed she was undeterred, a glimmer of resolve burning in her large black eyes. Ya'Han looked like a warrior summoned from legend, her vibrant red hair flowing over her shoulders like liquid fire.
"Nice kick," Zub rumbled. "But it won’t be that easy."
Ya'Han smiled faintly but did not reply. Instead, she adjusted her footing slightly, every fiber of her being alert to his slightest movement. Suddenly, Zub lunged forward, his massive claw swinging in an arc aimed for her side. In a display of near-supernatural agility, Ya'Han ducked low only to see the Vulcan blade hurling in her direction. The Voth had tricked her, using a rapid two-pronged attack, something that she admired, even if only for a single heartbeat. With a push of her hand, the Sec/Tac forced herself out of harm's way, allowing the two combatants to reset their positions.
"Computer, I need a lirpa," Ya'Han demanded, her arm extended and her hand opened, giving the computer the exact location as to where she wanted the weapon to appear.
=/\= Ani here, should I warn sickbay of possible incoming casualties? =/\=
The Voth and Nylaan ignored the ship's avatar. After a few seconds of intense staredown, Zub smiled as he gripped his weapon tightly while the Nylaan did the same.
As they resumed their sparring, the pillars of the room began to shift again, adding another layer of challenge. One thrust upward toward Zub’s back, forcing him to sidestep. Ya'Han used the distraction to launch a quick series of strikes, though Zub blocked her final hit with the haft of his lirpa, now raised defensively. His long leg swung low again, but Ya'Han leapt nimbly over it, landing on a glowing marker. A chime sounded in acknowledgement, signaling her precision.
Zub laughed, his voice a low rumble, as he readied his weapon once more. "You fight like a force of nature, Lieutenant. But can you weather the storm?"
Ya'Han only raised her fists higher, her eyes narrowing with focus. The clang of the room’s shifting mechanisms echoed again as the simulation intensified, both combatants fully engrossed in the deadly dance that was far more than simple training—it was a testament to their unrelenting spirit.
Like a riveting kinetic art performance of parkour, martial arts and ballet, Zub and Ya’Han used every surface, every pose, every muscle to come at each other. Their long lirpas whooshed and thudded, rang and pinged as they met and parted. As much as Zub held his own, Ya’Han was the star; her body so lithe, her crimson hair flying like a living thing, her face fierce with purpose.
Zub found it hard to not just stare in mute male admiration at her athleticism. Ya’Han bounced off a moving pillar. The momentum rocketed her toward him, body straight, arms extending the blade end of the lirpa, her crimson hair streaming behind making her a ruby comet or an avenging archangel. He worked not to be stupefied by her beauty.
He bent left at his hip to let the blade and then her pass where his chest had been. A split second later, he righted himself before she passed. His ribs thumped against her hip. Ya’Han was much lighter than him, but he impacted muscle as solid as hitting a prized Andorian bull. His body blow barely affected her trajectory, and she was able to smack him sideways on his cheek with the club end of the lance as she sailed past.
The fiery redhead tucked into a cannonball and then kicked off a shifting pillar. She flew toward him with her lirpa held horizontally at mid-haft with a space between her fists aimed at smashing his larynx. Zub genuflected low to get under her. She smacked him on his other cheek with the Vulcan blade as she soared overhead. From behind he heard her boots clang against another pillar.
Still, on one knee and having no time to rise, he did his best to spin to meet her, twisting his lirpa’s fan-shaped blade in front of his face as a shield.
The club end of her lance sank deep into his abdomen. Her momentum slid him backward. She landed lightly on her feet and jutted the blade end close to his face. She stood holding the lirpa one-handed, hips thrust forward, one boot in front of the other, red hair cascaded down her chest. Her voice was husky from the exertion. “Yield!”
Zub couldn’t even pull in a breath; she’d hit him so hard he was sure she’d paralyzed his lungs. He raised a hand and waved it in what he hoped she’d see as agreeing to yield and not asking for more sparring.
"Computer, end program," the Sec/Tac ordered, extending a helping hand to her shipmate.
The room faded back to its neutral grid pattern, the echoes of their sparring replaced by a charged silence. Zub took Ya’Han’s hand, his towering form rising steadily as he let out a gravelly chuckle. “You’re relentless, Lieutenant,” he rumbled, still catching his breath.
Ya’Han smirked, wiping a damp strand of crimson hair from her face. “And you’re tougher than you look, Zub. I’ll give you that.”
The Voth inclined his head, an appreciative glint in his golden eyes. “We make quite the team, don’t we? Next time, maybe we’ll aim for a draw.”
Her smile softened, showing a rare warmth. “Next time,” she agreed, the unspoken camaraderie between them solidified through their shared trial. Together, they exited the simulation chamber, ready for the challenges that lay beyond its walls.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
and
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
The Crimson Hurricane
Previous post: "Soul-Touched” by Francois
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck A-5, Holographic Simulation Chambers 2
Stardate: 44351.1530
The nightmarish mechanical room echoed with the rhythmic clang of shifting pillars. A solitary figure stood at the center, a charming silhouette of poised determination against a background of near absolute metallic mayhem, her vibrant red hair flowing like liquid fire with every precise motion.
Her breathing was steady, slow, and controlled, matching the cadence of her beating heart. As a pillar jutted toward her at an alarming speed, she twisted gracefully, the maneuver a seamless blend of strength and fluidity. Her crimson hair fanned out, a vibrant halo of motion, before settling as her feet touched down, perfectly balanced.
The next moment brought a barrage of attacks as pillars came at her in synchronized chaos. Yet, her sharp, dark eyes held an unwavering focus. She dodged the first, ducking low with feline grace, before spinning up and over the second. Her body twisted in midair, perfectly displaying the agility she’d honed through years of rigorous training.
A powerful leap sent her to another part of the platform, her foot slamming onto a glowing marker with a satisfying chime. A triumphant grin flickered across her lips before she turned, fists raised, ready for the next phase. In that momentary reprieve, the Nylaan's thoughts drifted to the training sessions she used to take part in on NYLA IV. In another time, in another world, in another reality, her father might have actually been proud of her for being who she was today. Alas, Ya'Han knew that this was not nor would ever be the case. The momentary distraction ended when another pillar raced in her direction.
Suddenly, an upward thrust of a metallic arm shot toward her torso. This time, she didn’t dodge. Instead, her hands moved faster than the eye could follow, gripping the arm mid-swing and using its momentum to propel herself upward. The effort displayed her strength in raw, unfiltered form, muscles taut, yet elegant as she vaulted onto the arm before leaping to a nearby platform.
The cycle continued for what felt like an eternity, each moment more demanding than the last. Sweat shimmered on her brow, but there was no hesitation in her movements. With every shift, twist, and leap, the passion and discipline she poured into her combat training became more evident. This was more than practice; it was art. Every strike, every dodge, every calculated response was a testament to the unyielding warrior she had become.
As the final alarm blared, the pillars came to a halt, signaling the end of the sequence. The Sec/Tac stood amidst the motionless chaos, her chest rising and falling steadily as she worked to recover. A fiery glow seemed to emanate from her, her red hair still in motion, curling slightly in damp strands across her face and shoulders.
Her training was complete for the moment, yet her mind remained sharp, already preparing for the next challenge. For Ya’Han, perfection was not the goal, it was the journey. And in this moment, with every nerve singing in triumph, she embraced the truth of what her training represented: strength, freedom, and the ever-burning flame of her own resilience.
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Array Section, Deck A-5, Holographic Simulation Chambers 2, Corridor
Standing 7-feet-tall, brown and scaly, the Voth hovered a clawed finger over the holodeck’s call button. His other three-fingered hand held the long shaft of a Vulcan lirpa with a razor sharp fan-shaped blade on one end and a club at the other.
The indicator on the console was deep red and quickly flashing “In Use” in every script of the known galaxy. He knew it meant the Nylaan Security Chief with kaleidoscopic hair was inside drilling her self-defense past perfection. She could be hostile when disturbed.
He pressed the call button. “Lieutenant Ya’Han, this is Lieutenant JG Zub Enel. I want to beat you with a stick.”
The holodeck doors gave a beep and a sigh as they opened a crack. The androgynous voice of Ani, the ANUBIS AI said, =/\= Warning. Safety protocols are disabled. Injury or death is possible while using this simulation. Enter at your own risk. Please acknowledge. =/\=
“Yes. Acknowledged. Let me enter.”
The doors slid fully apart. The scent of metal and Ya’Han’s sweat washed over Zub Enel’s sensitive nose. He could tell she’d been working herself hard. Yes but, he was willing to bet she could fight him even harder.
Zub stepped inside and the doors slid shut. He puzzled at all the odd floor-to-ceiling metal pillars and protuberances, many at crazy angles. It looked like he was in some bizarre engine room. The shapely Security Chief was nowhere to be seen. Realizing she was ready for him, he felt he’d just stepped into the den of a lioness while holding one of her squalling cubs by its tail.
His golden-eyed gaze flashed over all the gleaming shapes and deep shadows. Not a hint of her. That could only mean… He folded his legs and ducked for all he was worth, so low his bottom hit the deck.
Moments earlier, the sparring session had reached an intense peak. Ya'Han, light on her feet and brimming with confidence and energy, had launched an elegant spinning kick aimed at Zub’s torso. However, in his unexpected nimbleness for such a massive frame, Zub dodged the attack, causing her to miss the intended mark. The momentum of her attack carried her forward slightly off balance for only a split second before she landed into a new battle-ready posture.
Now standing at the ready, Ya'Han took in the scene before her. Zub’s clawed hands pressed against the floor, his jaw tilted as he glared upward, a point of view that he was not at all used to.
Her breathing was even, calm, steady. Years of training ensured she conserved her energy even in such rigorous situations. Despite the miss, her stance revealed she was undeterred, a glimmer of resolve burning in her large black eyes. Ya'Han looked like a warrior summoned from legend, her vibrant red hair flowing over her shoulders like liquid fire.
"Nice kick," Zub rumbled. "But it won’t be that easy."
Ya'Han smiled faintly but did not reply. Instead, she adjusted her footing slightly, every fiber of her being alert to his slightest movement. Suddenly, Zub lunged forward, his massive claw swinging in an arc aimed for her side. In a display of near-supernatural agility, Ya'Han ducked low only to see the Vulcan blade hurling in her direction. The Voth had tricked her, using a rapid two-pronged attack, something that she admired, even if only for a single heartbeat. With a push of her hand, the Sec/Tac forced herself out of harm's way, allowing the two combatants to reset their positions.
"Computer, I need a lirpa," Ya'Han demanded, her arm extended and her hand opened, giving the computer the exact location as to where she wanted the weapon to appear.
=/\= Ani here, should I warn sickbay of possible incoming casualties? =/\=
The Voth and Nylaan ignored the ship's avatar. After a few seconds of intense staredown, Zub smiled as he gripped his weapon tightly while the Nylaan did the same.
As they resumed their sparring, the pillars of the room began to shift again, adding another layer of challenge. One thrust upward toward Zub’s back, forcing him to sidestep. Ya'Han used the distraction to launch a quick series of strikes, though Zub blocked her final hit with the haft of his lirpa, now raised defensively. His long leg swung low again, but Ya'Han leapt nimbly over it, landing on a glowing marker. A chime sounded in acknowledgement, signaling her precision.
Zub laughed, his voice a low rumble, as he readied his weapon once more. "You fight like a force of nature, Lieutenant. But can you weather the storm?"
Ya'Han only raised her fists higher, her eyes narrowing with focus. The clang of the room’s shifting mechanisms echoed again as the simulation intensified, both combatants fully engrossed in the deadly dance that was far more than simple training—it was a testament to their unrelenting spirit.
Like a riveting kinetic art performance of parkour, martial arts and ballet, Zub and Ya’Han used every surface, every pose, every muscle to come at each other. Their long lirpas whooshed and thudded, rang and pinged as they met and parted. As much as Zub held his own, Ya’Han was the star; her body so lithe, her crimson hair flying like a living thing, her face fierce with purpose.
Zub found it hard to not just stare in mute male admiration at her athleticism. Ya’Han bounced off a moving pillar. The momentum rocketed her toward him, body straight, arms extending the blade end of the lirpa, her crimson hair streaming behind making her a ruby comet or an avenging archangel. He worked not to be stupefied by her beauty.
He bent left at his hip to let the blade and then her pass where his chest had been. A split second later, he righted himself before she passed. His ribs thumped against her hip. Ya’Han was much lighter than him, but he impacted muscle as solid as hitting a prized Andorian bull. His body blow barely affected her trajectory, and she was able to smack him sideways on his cheek with the club end of the lance as she sailed past.
The fiery redhead tucked into a cannonball and then kicked off a shifting pillar. She flew toward him with her lirpa held horizontally at mid-haft with a space between her fists aimed at smashing his larynx. Zub genuflected low to get under her. She smacked him on his other cheek with the Vulcan blade as she soared overhead. From behind he heard her boots clang against another pillar.
Still, on one knee and having no time to rise, he did his best to spin to meet her, twisting his lirpa’s fan-shaped blade in front of his face as a shield.
The club end of her lance sank deep into his abdomen. Her momentum slid him backward. She landed lightly on her feet and jutted the blade end close to his face. She stood holding the lirpa one-handed, hips thrust forward, one boot in front of the other, red hair cascaded down her chest. Her voice was husky from the exertion. “Yield!”
Zub couldn’t even pull in a breath; she’d hit him so hard he was sure she’d paralyzed his lungs. He raised a hand and waved it in what he hoped she’d see as agreeing to yield and not asking for more sparring.
"Computer, end program," the Sec/Tac ordered, extending a helping hand to her shipmate.
The room faded back to its neutral grid pattern, the echoes of their sparring replaced by a charged silence. Zub took Ya’Han’s hand, his towering form rising steadily as he let out a gravelly chuckle. “You’re relentless, Lieutenant,” he rumbled, still catching his breath.
Ya’Han smirked, wiping a damp strand of crimson hair from her face. “And you’re tougher than you look, Zub. I’ll give you that.”
The Voth inclined his head, an appreciative glint in his golden eyes. “We make quite the team, don’t we? Next time, maybe we’ll aim for a draw.”
Her smile softened, showing a rare warmth. “Next time,” she agreed, the unspoken camaraderie between them solidified through their shared trial. Together, they exited the simulation chamber, ready for the challenges that lay beyond its walls.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
and
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
=-=
"Observations"
Previous post: "The Crimson Hurricane"
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck A-5, Corridor outside Simulation Chamber 2
Stardate: 434351.1550
The soft hum of the ANUBIS filled the corridor as a figure lingered in the shadows, unseen. The door to Holographic Simulation Chamber 2 slid open with a quiet hiss, and two figures emerged.
Ya'Han's fiery red hair, damp from exertion, cascaded down her back as she moved with fluid precision, each step an unspoken testament to the intensity of her training. Beside her, Zub Enel loomed, his seven-foot reptilian frame commanding attention even in silence. His claws flexed subtly, betraying a tension that his composed demeanor tried to mask.
Hidden from view, the ILO observed them with unblinking intensity. Her mind stirred with the familiar cacophony of voices.
Anya Petrov, the Russian Huntress, spoke first. "The Marine is guarded. Those claws aren’t flexing for nothing. And her hair? A distraction—intentional and effective. She knows how to play the game."
Neri, the Bolian/Rutian Seductress, chuckled. "Oh, come now, Anya. It’s not all tactics. Look at them! That spark isn’t about strategy—it’s fire and steel, opposites in a perfect dance."
Dalra, the Varro Pilot, interjected sharply. "It’s not a dance; it’s a calculated maneuver. Look at their steps—measured, deliberate. If this isn’t strategy, I don’t know what is."
Gwenvel, the El'Aurian Counselor, sighed. "There’s no game, no strategy. Ya'Han is troubled, using training as her escape. Zub respects her struggles but remains distant. This isn’t about sparks; it’s about burdens."
Ema Fairchild, the Oltharian Warrior Priestess, offered calmly. "They are equals—warriors walking side by side. That energy isn’t tension; it’s mutual respect. Look closely, and you’ll see balance."
Jinx, the deadly Bounty Hunter, growled. "Respect or not, that Voth is dangerous. Too quiet, too big. And her? She’s unstable, broadcasting her emotions through that shifting hair of hers. She’s a ticking bomb."
Gemma’s lips twitched in faint amusement as the voices clashed. None of them were entirely wrong, yet none had the full truth either. Her sharp gaze lingered on the duo, catching subtle details: the incline of Ya'Han’s head, the way Zub’s claws brushed his belt in thought. Every movement spoke volumes.
Za’Ran, the Nylaan infiltrator, urged playfully. "Why linger in the shadows? Follow them. Get closer. Find out what they’re hiding."
Finnja, the Dinaal bleeding heart, countered softly. "No, let them be. They deserve their privacy. Not every story needs uncovering."
Lygill, the Liar, dismissed it coldly. "Privacy is a myth. If you’re not prying, you’re not doing your job."
Gemma tilted her head, considering the arguments as the pair turned a corner, their voices fading into the distance. For now, she would let them go. There was no rush to unravel this mystery—the ANUBIS offered endless puzzles, and patience was her ally.
Straightening, Gemma slipped into the shadows, her steps as silent as her thoughts. The voices in her mind receded, leaving behind a restless hum. She would return to this thread when the time was right.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
=-=
"Emotionally Confused"
Previous post: "Observations" by Rachel
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 13, Gymnasium
Stardate: 44351.1600
Lieutenant Jayson Stark, Chief of Operation on the USS ANUBIS, swung half-heartedly at the punching bag in the corner of the gymnasium. The dull rhythm of his gloves striking the synthetic leather felt as hollow as his mood. Training was supposed to clear his mind, but instead, it amplified the noise. His thoughts spiraled, returning to the same frustrating focal point; Ya'Han.
The gym was nearly empty, a rarity on a ship where solitude was hard to come by. For Jayson, the quiet was both welcome and unnerving. It gave him time to reflect, which only served to highlight how lost he felt. He wasn’t sure when his life, or his relationship with Ya'Han, had become so tangled, but here he was, struggling to find a way out of the mess -- again.
He paused, letting his forehead rest against the bag, and exhaled heavily. Somewhere nearby, likely in one of the holodecks, Ya'Han was undoubtedly testing her limits. She thrived on challenges that would overwhelm anyone else, and her combat drills were legendary. Her Nylaan heritage, with its ability to change her hair color based on emotion and focus, added an almost mythical quality to her presence. He could picture her now, hair a blazing red as she dismantled holographic foes with ease. The image was as awe-inspiring as it was intimidating.
A faint smile crept onto his face, but it quickly faded as memories of their tumultuous history resurfaced. Their relationship, or whatever it was that they shared, felt like a broken loop. Every time they got close, something tore them apart. From the moment they’d sparred in this very gym, she had always kept him at arm’s length, figuratively and literally. Back then, he’d told himself her victories were luck or his own mistakes. It hadn’t taken long to realize that Ya'Han was just better, better at fighting, better at navigating life, and, apparently, better at moving forward.
His chest tightened as the memories continued to surface. The incident with Sofia, the ship’s Chief Medical Officer, had been a low starting point. He’d tried to play it off, but Ya'Han’s fury, though concealed at the time, had burned through their already fragile bond. And then came the clone—his clone, created by the Lokustaar. Watching Ya'Han fall for a more confident copy of him had been a unique kind of agony, made worse when she’d left the ANUBIS in the aftermath. Granted, it had been part of the Captain's plan for her to infiltrate the enemy's side, but Jayson had not known this at the time.
“What’s wrong with me?” Jayson muttered, throwing another punch at the bag. This time, the blow carried frustration, a flicker of emotion that barely scratched the surface of his turmoil.
He wanted to believe things could be different, that they could repair what was broken. But every time they seemed to make progress, something intervened. Missions, misunderstandings, or the lingering weight of past mistakes. And now, here he was, alone in the gym, wondering what would go wrong next. Was it the universe telling him that this was not meant to be?
The doors swished open, startling him. His heart leaped, half-hoping it was her. But it wasn’t. A young ensign entered, nodding politely before retreating to the far corner of the gym. Jayson let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding and turned back to the punching bag.
“Pull yourself together,” he muttered, though the words carried no conviction.
His thoughts drifted back to Ya'Han. For all her strength and independence, there was a vulnerability she rarely revealed. He had caught glimpses of it, fleeting moments where her guard slipped. How truly enchanting and different she was when she opted to show her green hair. Those moments haunted him because they hinted at the possibility of something real, something worth fighting for. But he couldn’t shake the fear that she didn’t need him. Not really.
The holodeck doors weren’t far. He knew she was in there, likely engaged in a simulation so intense it would leave most people trembling. Part of him wanted to go to her, to say something, anything, that might close the widening gap between them. But another part of him hesitated. What could he say that hadn’t already been said? And what if she saw his interruption as a weakness? Knowing Ya'Han, she’d probably throw him into the simulation just to prove a point.
He chuckled softly at the thought, though the humor quickly dissipated. He wanted to be closer to her, but every time he tried, the distance between them seemed to grow. Maybe it was better this way. She could focus on what she excelled at, while he… well, while he tried to figure out who he even was.
“You’re an idiot, Stark,” he said aloud, throwing one final punch at the bag. The impact sent it swinging wildly, but Jayson didn’t wait for it to settle. He pulled off his gloves and headed for the exit, his thoughts still locked on Ya'Han and the maddening, endless dance they seemed destined to share.
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
---
"The Devil is in the Details"
(Previous Post: "Emotionally Confused")
---
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 13, Stellar Cartography
Stardate: 44351.1600
The Chief Science Officer sat at the primary workstation of Stellar Cartography, the five-deck-high science laboratory of the USS ANUBIS. Here, Maya could explore the universe in ways no other facility onboard could match. The expansive, wraparound holographic displays made her feel as though she were floating amidst the stars themselves. It was the perfect environment for delving into the mysteries of the cosmos, a place where the hum of the ship’s systems served as a soothing symphony to her relentless curiosity.
Currently, her focus was fixed on the celestial anomaly detected on the outskirts of the ALPHA-KRAILIAN SECTOR. Her slender fingers danced over the console controls, enlarging the spectral analysis display while simultaneously cross-referencing it with every known scientific entry on similar phenomena. There were none.
“Fascinating,” she murmured, tilting her head as her hazel eyes, glowing faintly with excitement, studied the chaotic interplay of gamma bursts and subspace distortions. The visual display, rendered in vibrant hues, depicted something utterly unique. Such occurrences had been hypothesized, of course, and many models had suggested the potential for anomalies of this nature, but none had ever been observed, let alone studied in this precise configuration.
“This is an anomaly of an anomaly,” she said to herself, her tone carrying a rare note of awe. “A chaotic interaction of interdimensional gravimetric waves and harmonic subspace oscillations. Yet, the coherence of the resultant energy fields suggests an underlying pattern. Could this imply an intelligent design? No, that would be premature to conclude, highly premature in fact. Still, the precise alignment of these variables is unlikely to be the product of random chance. Further analysis is required before...”
“Nice to see you back on the ANUBIS,” came a familiar voice from behind her.
Maya’s words caught in her throat. She turned her head slightly to see Ani, the ship's avatar, standing nearby. The android’s pale, flawless features were illuminated faintly by the glow of the holographic displays, her piercing gaze betraying the uncanny mixture of artificial precision and unexpected warmth.
“Hello, Ani,” Maya said, her tone measured but cordial as she turned back to her console. “I had surmised that someone might come to see me first upon my return to this station, and I must admit I am gratified it is you. Your ability to seamlessly integrate the logical precision of an artificial intelligence with occasional bursts of idiosyncratic humanity is... well, it is remarkable, to say the least. I presume you are here to inquire about the anomaly currently occupying my attention?”
Ani’s lips curved into a faint smile as she folded her arms. “You could say that. But I also wanted to check on you. You have been in here for several hours without a break.”
Maya blinked, momentarily distracted. “Oh, have I? I had not realized. The intricacy of this anomaly demands my full attention. Its spectral composition alone defies conventional classifications, and the potential ramifications for our understanding of subspace harmonics are... well, they are profound.”
Ani raised an eyebrow. “Profound enough to skip lunch and ignore sleep cycles?”
The Shillian paused, considering the statement with a faint frown. “While I appreciate your concern, I must point out that the physiological needs of my body are secondary at this moment. The opportunity to study a phenomenon of this magnitude in real time is exceedingly rare. Moreover, I would argue that the mental stimulation derived from such research provides its own form of sustenance.”
The android stepped closer, peering at the holographic display. “What exactly are you looking for in all of this?”
Maya’s eyes brightened further as she launched into an explanation. “Ah, an excellent question, Ani. You see, this anomaly exhibits characteristics that suggest it is not merely the result of natural cosmic forces. The harmonic resonance patterns within the subspace oscillations bear a distinct mathematical symmetry, which is both intriguing and perplexing. It is almost as though the anomaly itself is attempting to communicate or, more likely, emitting a byproduct of some internal process that mimics a signal. Of course, this is purely speculative at this stage, but the implications are staggering.”
Ani tilted her head. “Are you saying it could be alive?” Thanks to her own unique status, the avatar had a much broader concept of what could be considered as 'alive'.
Maya stood from her chair and stretched her back before clasping her hands behind her back as she began to pace. “Not alive in the biological sense, certainly not. Life as defined by Starfleet parameters requires certain criteria; homeostasis, reproduction, growth, and response to stimuli, but what if we are dealing with a different form of existence? An energy-based intelligence, perhaps? Or an emergent pattern born from the interplay of quantum mechanics and subspace physics? There are precedents for such entities, though exceedingly rare. Consider the Graviton Entity encountered by the ENTERPRISE-D, for instance, or the...”
“Maya,” Ani interrupted gently, raising a hand. “Focus.”
The Shillian stopped mid-sentence, blinking rapidly as though resetting her train of thought. “Yes, of course. Apologies, the Chief Science Officer said as she quickly returned to her chair. "The point is, Ani, that this anomaly represents a chance to expand our understanding of the universe in ways we cannot yet comprehend. If there is even a remote possibility of intelligent origin, then the implications are...” She paused, searching for the right word. “...limitless.”
Ani studied her for a moment, then nodded. “Just do not forget to take care of yourself in the process. Discoveries like this are important, but so is the scientist making them.”
Maya’s lips twitched into a rare, brief smile. “Your concern is noted. And appreciated.”
The android turned to leave but paused at the doorway. “Do not forget, Maya, the devil is in the details.”
As Ani walked away, Maya returned to her work, her thoughts swirling with endless possibilities. “The details,” she echoed softly, her voice filled with quiet determination. “Yes, that is precisely where the answers lie.”
---
Jessica Solarik
Lieutenant Commander Maya
Chief Science Officer
USS ANUBIS
"To see the world in a grain of sand,
and a heaven in a wild flower.
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
and eternity in an hour."
- William Blake (British, 1757-1827)
-=-=-
"Echoes and Shadows"
[the previous post was Jessica's' "The Devil is in the Details"]
-=-=-
Setting: NEW ALEXANDRIA, Observation Lounge
Stardate: 44351.1610
The halls of the NEW ALEXANDRIA base were eerily quiet, proving to be both a blessing and a curse. Adriana Lopez had hoped the silence would help her focus, but instead, it cracked the door open for *her* to return.
“Feels almost like home, doesn’t it?” Amanda’s voice echoed in Adriana’s mind, teasing and far too familiar.
Adriana sighed, leaning against the sleek bulkhead of one of the base’s observation decks. Beyond the protective wall, the unseen stars remained constant and unyielding, everything she wasn’t. “You always say that. But this place isn’t home. It’s a maze of shadows and secrets.”
“And yet, here you are,” Amanda countered with a knowing lilt. “Counselor to the crew of a secret Intel vessel. Protector of their fragile little minds. It suits you, Adri.”
Adriana frowned. *Adri?* Her sister had never called her that when they were young. “Stop it,” she whispered harshly. “You know I didn’t choose this life. And I definitely didn’t choose that nickname.”
“Didn’t you?” Amanda’s laughter was light and sharp, a blade disguised as a joke. “I mean 'the life', just to be clear.”
Adriana closed her eyes, clenching her fists as if the physical act could keep her missing sister's voice at bay. Amanda was gone. Had been gone for years. Adriana wasn’t crazy, she knew that. But sometimes it felt easier to let the hallucination linger, a ghost of what once was, of what she had failed to save.
The soft sound of boots on the polished floor pulled her out of the fog. Straightening, she turned to see Captain Erik Morningstar approaching, his face a mask of authority.
“Counselor,” he greeted, his tone as steady and inscrutable as ever.
“Captain,” Adriana replied, forcing herself to stand taller. “Is something wrong?”
“Not wrong,” he said, clasping his hands behind his back, his dark eyes scrutinizing her. “But there is something I need you to handle. Effective immediately.”
Adriana tilted her head, already wary. “Of course, sir. What’s the task?”
“The senior staff requires updated psychological evaluations,” Morningstar said. “This includes Commander Shar’El and Lieutenant Gemma. I trust you’ll handle this with the discretion and professionalism your role demands.”
Her stomach churned at the thought, but she nodded. “Understood. Is there anything specific you’d like me to address?”
“Commander Shar’El’s Ullian abilities are invaluable but come at a personal cost,” he said, his words deliberate. “Ensure she’s managing the strain. As for Lieutenant Gemma…” He hesitated, his tone softening, though his expression didn’t. “Her condition remains... unique. Her nanites allow her abilities she can’t fully control. I need to know if she’s stable enough to continue her role on the ANUBIS.”
“Understood,” Adriana said again, though the word felt hollow.
Morningstar studied her for a moment longer before nodding. “I’ll leave it in your capable hands. Report back once you’ve completed the evaluations.”
Without waiting for a response, he turned and strode down the corridor, leaving Adriana alone.
“Well, that sounds like fun,” Amanda’s voice chimed in, sharper now.
“Not now,” Adriana muttered through clenched teeth, pressing her fingers against her temples. The pressure behind her eyes felt unbearable, but Amanda didn’t care. She never cared.
As Adriana made her way back to the USS ANUBIS, her sister’s presence loomed like a shadow, vivid and inescapable. It wasn’t just a voice. It was a reminder of her failures, her doubts, and the thin line she walked every day between understanding others and understanding herself.
The evaluations wouldn’t be easy. Shar’El’s gift of memory delving was both a blessing and a curse, while Gemma’s fractured personalities, each with its own dangerous physical manifestation, were a psychological labyrinth Adriana wasn’t sure she was ready to navigate.
But it didn’t matter if she was ready. Orders were orders.
And the ghosts of her past would just have to wait.
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
=-=
"Pains and Aches"
Previous post: "Echoes and Shadows" by Marissa
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44351.1700
Sofia aimlessly wandered the ANUBIS' Sickbay while waiting for Satella to return. The two CMOs had spent most of their time over the last several days in Sickbay, not because they were ill but because this was the best place to discuss and trade medical stories about anything and everything. Satella had presented a lengthy list of injuries courtesy of this ship's Chief of Security, but Sofia had countered with Gemma's nanites that pretty much immune the multi-faceted woman from any illness and injuries. It was rather funny to listen to the two CMO's comparing other people's injuries as if they had been badges to be displayed with pride.
With Satella called out on some 'house call,' Sofia took the time to compare the equipment from the BASTET to that of the ANUBIS. The department's quiet, peacefulness was interrupted when the doors to Sickbay hissed open.
"That didn't take long," Sofia said, expecting to see Satella walk in, but instead it was the towering Voth who stepped in, supporting one of his Marines who displayed a distinct green tint on his face.
"He's not feeling well," Zub announced as he helped the man onto the main examination table.
"I can see that," Sofia half chuckled. "Doctor Bruxa should be back shortly."
"Do you have an issue with treating Marines?" The towering lizardman hissed.
"No," the BASTET's CMO gulped, surprised by the tone and abruptness of the question.
"Do you have an issue with treating a member of Starfleet?"
Andersson squeezed her lips into a tight pout, displaying her displeasure and annoyance. "No, but this is not my..."
Zub Enel interrupted, "Are you still a Doctor?"
"Alright! Alright!" Sofia said as she cast her arm up in defeat. "I can see why they assigned you to the Marine Corp, apparently manners and etiquette could not be distributed to reach your height." The blonde-hair CMO turned her attention to the ill-looking Marine. "Alright, let's see what the issue might be," she said, fetching a medical tricorder and opening it so she could start her examination.
Zub Enel clasped his three-fingered hands behind his back to stand close enough to the examining table that Dr Andersson could work and he could still see Lance Corporal Sindgin Smythe. The humanoid marine’s usual Alsaurian complexion was florid. Now he was the pallid green of Horva lettuce. Only the tiny shield of ridges on the bridge of his nose remained pink.
With his hands positioned behind his back, Enel felt a growing ache in his abdomen where Lt. Ya’Han had struck him during their sparring. He let his hands drop to his sides to release the pressure. The movement made the blonde doctor give him a piercing glare before returning to her patient.
Zub went up on his toes and back down. He felt his scales warm and redden. Little bits of down prickled out from underneath. Perhaps he’d been a little too forceful. “I apologize, Doctor Andersson. I know you are an excellent doctor because you have treated me … “
“Too many times.” She held her tricorder closer to her face as she examined it.
Zub felt a wall of ice building between them, a wall he had built. That had not been his intention. By the nature of their duties, marines needed excellent relations with the medical staff.
The cut from Ya’Han’s blade against his cheek, though it was healing, tweaked painfully as he forced a bigger smile. He bent forward in a bow made shallow by the sharp pain in his abdomen. “Doctor, please forgive me. I was concerned about Corporal Smythe being so ill so suddenly. I admit that living and working with Marines has roughened my manner. I do apologize for being so abrupt with you.” He lowered his golden-eyed gaze to the floor near her shoes.
Sofia gently shook her head. "No need to apologize," she said, turning to face the reptilian tower, the tricorder in her hand still active and scanning. "I don't need an apology, but an explanation would be nice. You are showing signs of a deep laceration on your abdomen.. What happened?"
"Nothing of importance," the Voth casually dismissed. "I am here to make sure Lance Corporal Sindgin Smythe is all right."
"He's fine," Sofia said using the same dismissive tone that Zub had just used on her. "He's got a moderate case of food poisoning, Nothing that can't be fixed with a simple injection. You on the other hand are actually *injured* and need medical treatment. So, SIT!" She ordered while pointing to one of the medical beds. The size difference between the CMO and MCO was amusing on its own, but to have the much shorter, petite blonde-haired woman barking orders at the towering reptilian was flat-out hilarious.
At least to her and LCPL Smythe. Zub Enel stopped as he passed the marine’s medical examination table. He jutted a clawed finger. “Stow that crap, Gyrene, or you will personally push this starship to the Gamma Quadrant. Grab a PADD, and list all the places you have eaten in the last 24 hours.” He looked narrowly at the marine.
“Yes, sir!” The sick Alsaurian’s smirk had vanished. He looked around hastily for a PADD.
The Marine CO continued his journey to a medical bed. He seated himself gingerly. “Honestly, Dr. Andersson, there’s nothing truly wrong with me.”
Sofia looked into Zub's eyes, a soft, tender moment, which proved to be an effective distraction as the CMO pressed a single finger against the bruise on his abdomen. The hint of a smile that had been on his features instantly vanished as a wave of pain flashed through his body. "Really?" The blonde-haired physician smirked, "Nothing wrong with you?" Her brown eyes, so tender a moment before, narrowed as her gaze swept up to his cheek. "So the untreated open gash is what? Something that happens naturally to all Voth?" Doctor Andersson stared reproachfully at Enel for several seconds before reopening her medical tricorder and scanning the injuries. "Blunt force trauma to your equivalent of a pancreas and that crazy plumbing for kidney function. I'd say a sharp, small, curved blade to the scales and two underlying epidermal layers; this based on the cellular damage at the laceration sight. A sword blade and pommel strike would not have done this, nor a bat'leth," Sofia said.
"A lirpa," Zub admitted with a sigh.
"A lirpa?!?" Andersson echoed in surprise. "I would not have guessed that. It's an interesting choice, I will say that much. Now, since none of your marines came in with similar injuries, a broken arm or leg, or even a black eye as counter-payment for this gift, I can only assume that this was done by..."
"Ya'Han," Enel nodded as it was clear that playing this guessing game with the CMO would only prolong the entire affair.
The CMO was about to comment when the door to Sickbay opened and another Marine walked in looking rather green around the gills, that is if he had any to start with. "You!" She said pointing a commanding finger at the MCO, "Do not move." Quickly bridging the gap between herself and the new arrival, Sofia scanned the Marine's vitals and quickly identified the same symptoms as the first. "Food poisoning? What are you people eating?"
"Nothing outside of what is provided by the replicator," Zub explained.
Sofia contemplated the data for a few seconds. "Well, your Voth physiology could provide you immunity from whatever is causing this, but I can no longer accept this as an isolated incident. We need to look into this right away before it spreads to more members of the crew."
=-=
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
and
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
"Two For One Session"
Previous post: "Echoes and Shadows” by Marissa
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Counselor's Office
Stardate: 44352.0800
Counselor Adriana Lopez had scheduled a standard pre-mission psychological evaluation for each senior staff member, a routine task. The timetable was carefully crafted to respect everyone’s duties, which now included the Chief Engineer looking into issues with some of the ANUBIS' replicators. However, her first session of the day brought an unexpected twist: both the OPS officer, Jayson Stark, and the Sec/Tac, Ya'Han, entered her office together. Adriana raised an eyebrow, momentarily thrown off.
"This was supposed to be a solo session," Adriana said, her professional composure steady as she gazed at the red-haired Nylaan woman.
Ya'Han and Jayson exchanged a quick glance before Jayson replied, "We thought it might be more efficient to do it together." The Nylaan smiled and nodded her head in an agreeing manner.
"This is going to be interesting," Amanda chimed in with a mischievous grin, the hallucination of Adriana's missing twin sister appearing just behind the couple. Adriana ignored her, maintaining her focus.
Ya'Han continued, "Things between us have been... better recently, and we thought this might give you a clearer picture of where we stand."
The Counselor nodded thoughtfully. The last thing she wanted was to hinder their progress. "Alright," she said, gesturing to the chairs. "If you’re both comfortable with this arrangement, we’ll proceed."
Once they were seated, Adriana began. "Let me start by saying it’s good to see you two here, sitting together without visible tension. It’s a pleasant contrast to some of our earlier conversations." Her gaze moved between them as she continued. "Your relationship has faced its share of challenges. Let’s revisit a few of those, just to set the stage."
She tapped her PADD, pulling up relevant notes. "The destruction of Paris," she began gently. "The stress of that event created cracks in your relationship even before it started as you processed it in very different ways."
Neither Ya'Han nor Jayson responded immediately, though Jayson shifted in his seat, and Ya'Han cast a fleeting glance his way.
"Then there was the mission on MARKALA PRIME. Trust and communication were tested under chaotic conditions, as you both struggled to balance personal issues with professional responsibilities."
Ya'Han’s posture stiffened slightly, her gaze dropping to the floor. Adriana paused, giving her a moment before continuing.
"There was the MASQUERADE DREAMS mission which brought Ya'Jun into the picture, dredging up old traumas for Ya'Han while further complicating things between you two."
Adriana’s eyes moved between them, gauging their reactions. They exchanged another glance, this one carrying more weight, an unspoken acknowledgment.
"We can’t forget the dealings with the Lokustaar, and their agent Mordana, specifically. The manipulation and fear she instilled created new wounds." Adriana said, her voice softening before adding, "This led to the incident with Jayson's clone. That alone could have ended your relationship. The romantic entanglement with the clone and the subsequent silence from Jayson was an especially sore point."
A heavy silence hung in the room, charged with emotion but not oppressive. Adriana observed them quietly. They were wrestling with deeply rooted feelings, but no conflict seemed imminent.
"You’re both still here," Adriana said with a small smile, breaking the silence. "You haven’t screamed, stormed out, or dissolved into tears. That tells me something. Whatever work you’ve done individually and together has made a difference."
"That was disappointing," Amanda huffed, folding her arms with mock indignation. "I was so looking forward to her going 'nuclear red' and tossing him out the nearest airlock."
Jayson exhaled, nervously running a hand through his hair. "It hasn’t been easy, Counselor. There’s still... stuff. But we’ve figured out how to keep moving forward."
"And we respect what we’ve been through," Ya'Han added. "It’s not perfect, but it’s better."
Adriana leaned forward, folding her hands over her knee. "That’s the most anyone can ask for. Perfection isn’t the goal. The fact that you’re here, together, willing to face whatever comes next as a team, that is what matters most." She smiled. "Now, let’s focus on that progress and how we can ensure it’s sustainable during whatever upcoming missions we are sent into."
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
and
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
"Group Session"
Previous post: "Two For One Session"
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Counselor's Office
Stardate: 44352.0930
The soft chime of the door startled Counselor Adriana Lopez out of her thoughts. She adjusted the PADD in her hands and took a deep, steadying breath. This was just another session, she reminded herself. Just another evaluation. But as the door slid open and Lieutenant Gemma entered, Adriana knew it wasn’t.
Gemma moved with the fluid grace of someone who was both predator and prey. Her uniform was immaculate, her posture poised, but her eyes... they flickered with subtle shifts, like shadows passing over a stage where an unseen audience waited to emerge.
“Lieutenant,” Adriana greeted, keeping her voice steady despite the knot forming in her stomach.
“Counselor.” Gemma’s tone was cool and detached as she crossed the room to sit opposite Adriana, her posture unnervingly perfect.
Adriana hesitated, fingers tightening on the PADD. The Captain's directive was clear: assess Lieutenant Gemma’s psychological stability before her next mission. But how did one evaluate someone who was, by their very nature, a constantly shifting enigma?
“I’d like to start with a few general questions,” Adriana began, striving for a professional yet approachable tone. “To establish a baseline.”
Gemma tilted her head, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “Of course, Counselor. Generalities are a safe place to begin.”
She’s nervous but professional, Gwenvel, the El’Aurian counselor within Gemma's mind, observed. **She wants to see if we’ve changed since the last time we did this.**
Adriana made a note on her PADD, ignoring the heat rising to her cheeks. **Calm down,** she chided herself. **You’ve handled evaluations before. This is no different.**
But it was different.
As Adriana continued her questions, the voices in Gemma’s head stirred.
**Poor thing is beyond nervous,** purred Neri, the Seductress. **Look at her, stiff shoulders, glancing at the PADD like it’s her lifeline. I wonder what she’s hiding.**
**She’s cautious, not nervous,** countered Anya, the Huntress. **There’s a difference. Her eyes are darting, assessing. She knows we’re dangerous.**
**She’s doing her job, just as you are,** said Gwenvel, soothingly. **Do try to make it easier for her. Show her you’re not a threat.**
Gemma’s expression remained unreadable, her outward silence a mask concealing the internal dialogue.
**Why are we even here?** Jinx, the Bounty Hunter, sneered with impatience. **This is a waste of time. Let’s give her the answers she wants and leave.**
**She’s kind,** Finnja, the Denaali over-caring bleeding heart, protested. **Her hands tremble just slightly when she thinks we’re not looking. This isn’t easy for her.**
Adriana cleared her throat, pushing aside her own unease. “You’ve been aboard the ANUBIS for some time now. How would you describe your relationship with the crew?”
Gemma’s lips curved faintly. “Professional. Respectful.”
Adriana leaned forward, feigning ease. “Is that all? No camaraderie? No... personal connections?”
The atmosphere seemed to shift, an invisible tension tightening the room. Gemma’s gaze sharpened. “Connections are complicated in my line of work, Counselor. Respect and professionalism suffice. Wouldn’t you agree?”
Adriana hesitated, sensing the subtle challenge. “I see your point,” she replied with a practiced smile. “But I’ve found that even tenuous connections can provide unexpected strength. Even for someone in your position.”
Gemma’s eyes flickered with something, amusement or approval, perhaps, but her response was measured. “Strength can take many forms, Counselor. Wouldn’t you agree?”
Adriana nodded, though her heart raced. **Don’t let her intimidate you,** she reminded herself. Yet she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was the one being evaluated.
When the session ended, Adriana leaned back, exhaling a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding.
Gemma rose, her movements fluid and deliberate. “Thank you, Counselor. This was... enlightening.”
“The pleasure was mine, Lieutenant,” Adriana replied, though her smile felt forced.
As the door slid shut behind Gemma, Adriana let out a shaky sigh. Her twin sister’s voice echoed faintly in her mind.
“She’s dangerous, hermana,” Amanda warned, her presence lingering just out of sight. “You’ll need more than words to handle her,” the missing twin sister added softly.
Adriana rubbed her temples, the weight of the evaluation settling heavily on her shoulders. Amanda wasn’t wrong.
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Corridor Outside the Counselor’s Office
Stardate: 44352.1050
Gemma stepped into the corridor, her expression hardening as the playful smirk faded.
“Relationships,” she muttered, her voice dripping with disdain.
**You want them more than you’ll admit,** Finnja’s voice countered gently. **Even now, you wonder if she’s right.**
Anya scoffed. **We’ve been down that path. Relationships weaken us. Zorel proved that, and an entire Romulan trade outpost paid the price for it.**
The memory struck like a blade, and for a fleeting moment, Gemma’s form shimmered, replaced by that of Ema Fairchild. The Oltharian Priestess lowered her head, whispering a quiet prayer for the man who had been both her strength and her undoing.
Gemma’s features reasserted themselves as her stance stiffened. “A personal relationship is out of the question,” she murmured, her tone resolute. “Too many lives are at stake.”
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
=-=
"Introspective"
Previous post: "Group Session" by Rachel
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Corridor
Stardate: 44352.1030
Commander Shar’El walked the corridors of the USS ANUBIS with a deliberate air of detachment, her focus fixed on the inactive PADD she carried. The device served as more than a prop; it was a shield, one that allowed her to avoid unnecessary interactions and provided her a measure of control in a world she often found overwhelming. This deliberate distance reflected not indifference but a coping mechanism born of her Ullian abilities, a way to navigate the barrage of unbidden thoughts and memories from those around her. It also revealed her leadership style—measured and composed, offering the crew a stable anchor while concealing her own internal struggles. Her tenure as the ship’s Intel Liaison Officer had trained her to value such moments of solitude, but those days were behind her now. Gemma had taken over the position, leaving Shar’El to fully embrace her role as the ANUBIS’ Executive Officer.
She accepted the shift in responsibilities without resentment. The duties of the ExO demanded much from her, and in truth, she welcomed the challenges. There were aspects of her previous role she missed—the meticulous analysis, the covert operations—but her current position offered its own sense of purpose. It also provided her with an unfiltered connection to the crew, a web of memories and thoughts that constantly thrummed at the edge of her mind.
For a Ullian, memories were more than passing impressions. They were windows into the essence of others, glimpses of their struggles, triumphs, and vulnerabilities. Shar’El had long learned to manage this unique gift, though it often felt more like a burden. As she walked, fragments of the crew’s thoughts and memories drifted into her awareness, unbidden and persistent.
Lieutenant Commander Maya, the ship’s Shillian Chief Science Officer, was preoccupied with her research on a celestial anomaly. Even away from the science labs, her mind was a constant hum of equations and hypotheses. Lieutenant Jayson Stark, the Operations Officer, often reflected on his complex relationship with Ya’Han, alternating between moments of tenderness and vivid memories of sparring sessions that left him sprawled on the mat. For her part, Ya’Han, the Chief of Security, wrestled with the weight of her past as the youngest daughter of an oppressive ruler, her memories laced with both defiance and regret.
The ship’s Counselor, Adriana Lopez, carried her own emotional burdens. Her thoughts frequently turned to her missing twin sister, a loss that manifested in hallucinations Shar’El found unsettling but understood as a coping mechanism. The Marine Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Zub Enel, harbored a surprising gentleness beneath his imposing exterior. His memories painted a picture of someone who sought to see the best in those around him.
Then there was Sonja Paquette, the Chief Engineer. Shar’El often sensed her enthusiasm for tinkering with the ship’s systems or experimenting in the robotics lab, her thoughts a vibrant mosaic of innovation. The medical team currently consisting of Dr. Sofia Anderson, Dr. Satella Bruxa, and Ava Noiva presented a cacophony of urgency and compassion, their minds too overwhelming for Shar’El to linger on for long.
Gemma remained an enigma, her nanite-enhanced physiology effectively shielding her thoughts from Shar’El’s telepathic reach. This impenetrability was a double-edged sword for the Ullian. On one hand, it was a welcome respite from the constant influx of memories she gleaned from others. On the other, it left her feeling disconnected and uneasy, as if the ILO’s inscrutability placed an intangible barrier between them. The lack of access forced Shar’El to rely solely on observation and interaction, a practice she found both refreshing and disconcerting in equal measure thanks to the woman's countless personalities.
Lost in her observations, Shar’El glanced up and realized she had wandered near the Counselor’s office. Deciding it was an opportune moment to check on the senior staff evaluations, she approached the door. As she arrived, Gemma exited, her expression inscrutable as always. Shar’El allowed the ILO to pass without comment and stepped inside.
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Counselor’s Office
Stardate: 44352.1055
“I’ll be right with you, Maya,” Counselor Lopez called from her adjoining office, clearly assuming who her visitor was.
“I’m afraid it’s not Maya,” Shar’El replied, her tone measured.
Adriana emerged with a sheepish smile. “I’ll admit, I’m surprised. Maya arriving early would have been unprecedented.”
Shar’El allowed herself a faint smirk. “She’s still in Stellar Cartography, engrossed in her research. Now, how are you holding up? I saw Gemma leaving just now.”
Adriana’s smile faltered slightly. “It could have gone better. But it could have gone worse, too. I’m confident Captain Morningstar will understand the nuances of my report.” Despite her composed demeanor, a trace of weariness lingered in her expression, a testament to the emotional weight of her responsibilities. Evaluating the senior staff, while necessary, often left her grappling with the fine balance between professional impartiality and personal empathy, a challenge that seemed to deepen with every session.
Shar’El caught a fleeting memory of the Captain assigning Adriana the daunting task of evaluating the senior staff. The memory dissipated as quickly as it came, replaced by the Counselor’s focus on the conversation at hand.
“And you, Commander?” Adriana asked, her gaze probing. “How are you managing the transition?”
Shar’El’s expression softened, though her response was carefully composed. “For the record, Counselor, I’m doing well. Adjusting to Gemma’s oversight of the IGC has been straightforward. My priority now is ensuring every member of this crew has what they need to perform their duties at the highest level. That includes you, Adriana. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support.”
The Counselor nodded, visibly reassured. Shar’El’s words were more than a professional obligation; they were a reflection of her commitment to the crew, a commitment born from both duty and the deeply personal connection her abilities afforded her. As she left the office, she resolved to keep a closer eye on the Counselor. Adriana’s well-being, like that of every crew member, was part of the intricate web of lives Shar’El had vowed to safeguard.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
---
"Comparing Thoughts"
(Previous Post: "Introspective")
---
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 13, Stellar Cartography
Stardate: 44352.2100
Maya had been working on this mystery for well over 24 hours, and the Shillian Chief Science Officer was no closer to getting the answers she sought, or the respite she needed. Each time fatigue clawed at her senses, some strange reading from the celestial anomaly discovered on the outskirts of the ALPHA-KRAILIAN SECTOR would surface creating a whole new set of questions and theories. These, of course, needed to be immediately reviewed, analyzed, and considered by the hyper-focussed scientist.
=/\= Counselor Lopez to Lieutenant Commander Maya, =/\= the gentle voice of the Hispanic woman interrupted the silence that reigned in Stellar Cartography.
"Yes Counselor," Maya acknowledged, not diverting any of her attention away from the latest analysis she was in the middle of.
=/\= You and I had a scheduled meeting at 1900, =/\= the disembodied voice of the Hispanic woman pointed out, a hint of annoyance audible in her words. =/\= The one that was rescheduled after you missed the one scheduled for 1100 and the one you had agreed to for 1500. =/\=
"Sorry about that, give me one minute, and I will be right there," the Shillian scientist said, her hands dancing on the controls of the science station with dizzying speed.
=/\= Maya, =/\= Adriana sighed, no longer trying to hide her frustration. =/\= You said the same thing the last three times I called to remind you of our scheduled meeting. It's now 2100. =/\=
"2100?!? I am truly sorry Counselor," the Shillian scientist gasped, actually stopping her work for the first time in quite a while. "This celestial anomaly is proving to be far more complex than initially expected, and it is demanding all of my time and attention. I have been in constant contact with Lieutenant Commander Tirina Rue and Lieutenant Commander Quitis from NEW ALEXANDRIA, trying to understand what is happening inside that anomaly, and so far we have only managed to uncover more questions than we started with. There is no indication that this anomaly is alive, yet we have identified possible brainwave activities, well actually not brainwaves as there are no indications that the anomaly has a brain, but there are signs of what appears to be thoughts being generated in there, somewhere. The mystery, at least one of them, is that there is no specific point of origin for these, hinting that either the anomaly is much larger and more complex than we have identified it to be, or there are multiple sources within the anomaly, which would make it an anomaly of anomalies. The more I try to figure out this enigma, the deeper I find myself slipping into the proverbial rabbit hole... it is quite the mystery we have uncovered."
=/\= Maya... =/\= Adriana began before stopping herself, easily hearing the fingers of the Shillian dancing on the surface of her work console once again.
---
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 13, Stellar Cartography
Stardate: 44352.2115
The doors to Stellar Cartography opened and closed without the Shillian acknowledging the fact in any way. Judging by the level of concentration the Chief Science Officer was displaying, the Counselor was nearly certain that not even the explosion of a nearby conduit would be enough to interrupt her thoughts.
"Maya?" Adriana said in a whispered voice trying not to startle the working scientist.
"Yes Counselor," Maya acknowledged. "As I said, I will be right there. I just need to finish this last set of wavelength and amplitude analyses, comparing them to actual brain scans that we have on file. There is something truly familiar with these, but I can't put my finger on it. I know that I am close though..."
Judging by the way Maya was talking, it was evident that the scientist had not realized that the Counselor was there, in the same room as her, and not communicating via the internal communication system of the ship.
"This is impossible," Amanda gasped, the hallucination of the missing twin sister stepping forward from behind the Counselor to stand directly behind the Shillian, her ethereal form shimmering faintly in the ambient light of Stellar Cartography. She leaned over Maya’s shoulder, her expression a mixture of awe and desperation. “That... that is me,” she whispered, her voice trembling as she stared at the chaotic interplay of energy on the holographic display. “Or at least it is a part of me. Adriana, you need to tell her. She cannot hear me... so you have to make her understand!”
Adriana’s gaze flicked between Maya and her phantom sister. She could see Amanda’s distress, her hands reaching out as though she could physically guide the scientist to an answer. It was heartbreaking to witness her sister’s helplessness, and even more so to know she could not explain the truth, whatever it might have been.
“Maya,” Adriana said firmly, stepping closer to the console.
“Hmm?” The Shillian’s response was a vague sound, her focus entirely on the data before her.
“Maya, look at me,” the Counselor demanded, her voice sharper this time.
The scientist blinked and finally turned her head, as though only now realizing Adriana was physically in the room. “Oh. Counselor Lopez. I apologize; I had assumed we were still speaking via the comms.”
Adriana crossed her arms and fixed Maya with a pointed look. “You need to take a break. You have been working non-stop for over 24 hours. This is not healthy.”
“Healthy?” Maya repeated, tilting her head in genuine confusion. “Counselor, I assure you, my physical and mental faculties are functioning within optimal parameters. My focus is on the anomaly because it demands my attention. The signals emanating from it are unlike anything I have ever encountered, and they are... familiar in a way that I cannot quantify. I suspect that...”
“Maya,” Adriana interrupted, stepping forward and placing a hand on the console, cutting off the Shillian’s access to the controls. “Stop. Just for a moment. Breathe. Look at me.”
Amanda moved to stand beside Adriana, her hands clenched in frustration. “Tell her to look deeper! Tell her to cross-reference the brainwave patterns with mine! They are mine! Or at least... they were.”
Adriana closed her eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath to steady herself. “Maya, you mentioned that the signals are similar to brain activity but do not originate from any specific point. Could they be... fragmented?”
Maya’s brow furrowed as she considered the suggestion. “Fragmented? That is an intriguing hypothesis. Fragmentation could indeed explain the absence of a discernible point of origin, though it would imply that the anomaly itself is acting as a conduit or medium for these signals. If that were the case, the energy within the anomaly might be...” She stopped mid-sentence, her hazel eyes widening as realization struck. “... might be fragments of consciousness. Fascinating. But whose consciousness? And how?”
Amanda’s form flickered as she waved her hands in front of Maya’s face, desperate to be noticed. “Mine! Maya, it is me! Pieces of me at least, trapped in this... this thing! I can't explain it, but it's true... YOU FOUND ME!"
Adriana bit her lip, trying to keep her expression neutral as her sister’s outburst tore at her composure. “Maya,” she said carefully, “if these signals are fragmented, could it be possible that they were once whole? Perhaps... the anomaly absorbed or captured something or someone?”
Maya tilted her head, her expression shifting to one of intense thought. “Theoretically, yes. The anomaly could be a temporal or subspace rift capable of trapping and dispersing neural patterns. If that is the case, we may be looking at residual echoes of a sentient mind, or multiple minds. The implications of such a phenomenon are staggering. However, proving this hypothesis would require...”
“Adriana!” Amanda interrupted, her voice filled with urgency. “Ask her to run my old neural scan! Wait, how could you, I was 6 years old when we were last together, but we are twins, so use yours instead. It will not be a perfect match, but it should be close enough to make the point. Make her compare it to the signals!”
Adriana’s breath caught. Could it be possible? Could these strange signals truly be connected to her sister? The idea seemed impossible... Yet Amanda’s presence, her desperation, and her knowledge of the anomaly, all pointed to some sort of connection.
“Maya,” Adriana said, her voice soft but insistent. “Would it help if you had a baseline neural scan to compare these signals to? Something from a real person?”
Maya’s eyes lit up with curiosity. “It could provide invaluable context, yes. A baseline would allow us to determine whether these signals are analogous to a sentient mind or something else entirely. Do you have such a scan in mind, Counselor?”
Adriana hesitated, glancing at Amanda, who was nodding furiously. “I do,” she said finally. “A scan from... say, one of the members of the crew."
Maya’s expression shifted to one of puzzlement. “That is an unexpected suggestion, but one that is still worth exploring. Did you have someone in particular in mind, or should I set up a link with the medical database to run a comparison with all of the neurological scans of the crew that we have on file?”
“Just... use mine,” Adriana said quickly. “I can pull the scan from medical records without any issues, after all, I have had mine done repeatedly over the last several years."
The Shillian scientist nodded, her fingers already moving to prepare the system for the comparison. “I must admit, Counselor, I am intrigued. Let us see what this anomaly has to say.”
Amanda stepped closer, her shimmering form trembling with anticipation. “Come on, Maya. Please, find me.”
---
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
and
Jessica Solarik
Lieutenant Commander Maya
Chief Science Officer
USS ANUBIS
"To see the world in a grain of sand,
and a heaven in a wild flower.
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
and eternity in an hour."
- William Blake (British, 1757-1827)
=-=
"Unexpected Session"
Previous post: "Comparing Thoughts” by Jessica and Marissa
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Corridor
Stardate: 44352.2145
Adriana moved through the steel-gray corridors of the ship, her mind swirling with the revelations from her meeting with Lieutenant Commander Maya. A spatial anomaly? Her twin sister, missing for decades, had been taken when they were just children, but now... what if... maybe?
Her fingers brushed absentmindedly over the data tablet she carried, the screen darkened now but still heavy with the implications of their discovery. Could Amanda really be alive? Were the bursts of color and sound, what she’d dismissed as hallucinations, all this time her sister’s attempts to reach out? All of those times Lopez believed her sanity was in question, had they all been just her failing to see what was truly happening?
Lost in thought, Adriana turned a corner sharply and collided with something large... no, someone... immovable. She staggered back, her shoulder jarring painfully as the tablet slipped from her fingers and clattered loudly onto the floor. Looking up, she found herself face to face with Marine Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Zub Enel.
He towered over her, a seven-foot-tall wall of muscle and scales. His reptilian features were sharply defined, his angular jaw set in a stern line. His powerful stance and piercing golden eyes gave him an unmistakable presence, yet there was a gentleness about him. The greenish hue of his scales shimmered under the harsh overhead lights, lending him an almost ethereal glow.
"Lieutenant Lopez," Enel said, his voice a low rumble that vibrated through the air. His gaze flicked briefly to the fallen tablet before returning to her. "You seem... unusually distracted, Counselor. Is everything all right?"
Adriana blinked, forcing herself to refocus. "Lieutenant Enel. I mean Zub... sorry. I wasn’t looking where I was going."
He inclined his head slightly, a gesture that could have been interpreted as acknowledgment or irritation. Bending down, he picked up the tablet with a clawed hand, holding it out to her.
"It’s unusual to see you this preoccupied," he observed, his tone neutral but his gaze probing. "Anything I should be concerned about?"
Adriana hesitated, clutching the tablet as she accepted it from him. Her first instinct was to deflect, but Zub Enel was the kind of officer... the kind of friend who deserved better than a half-baked dismissal of his concerns for her.
"Just some new information from Lieutenant Commander Maya," she said carefully. "It’s... personal though."
Enel’s eyes narrowed slightly, but he nodded. "Understood. Personal matters can be... consuming. But remember, Counselor, clarity of mind is critical. Distraction can be costly out here." Zub caught himself, surprised that his words had sounded like someone else had said them, more specifically their ILO, Gemma.
"Yes," Adriana replied with a weak smile now gracing her lips, "You are absolutely correct."
"That said, if there is something that I can do to help, please do not hesitate to call upon me," the Voth added, looking at the much shorter woman with a sense of protectiveness.
A thought occurred to her. Adriana looked up appraisingly at the reptilian officer. She brought her data tablet against her chest, holding it with her fingers circled over the top. Zub gazed down at her. His bony brow rose in anticipation.
The Hispanic woman said, “It’s just now, the way you advised me about the costliness of being distracted.”
“I apologize,” he rumbled. “Counseling a counselor. I only intended… “
She brought up a hand to stop him which the huge Marine did instantly. “The way you phrased it was familiar, like something Gemma would say.”
“Ah,” said the colossal lizard man. He took a sudden step back. Adriana felt like a warm wall had fallen away. His involuntary retreat had been one of defensiveness at the mention of the beautiful and highly dangerous ILO. Her eyebrows rose.
-=-=-
Setting: Counselor's Office
Stardate: 44352.2155
After their brief exchange, it took little effort to persuade Zub to follow Adriana back to her office. It was evident to the Counselor that there was something by the way Enel had reacted to the mention of Gemma. The ILO had a particular way of getting under people's skin, but this was different. The tension Lopez sensed was akin to that between Jayson and Ya'Han, or at least that was what she believed. Given the recent turn of events and news about the possible link between the spatial anomaly and her sister, Adriana found herself questioning everything... her perceptions, her sanity, and now even her own sense of self.
The soft lighting of Adriana's office contrasted with the cold sterility of the ship’s corridors. A faint aroma of mint tea lingered as a subtle attempt to create an inviting space. After some fussing between him and her about whether Zub should be seated or stand rigidly at attention, Adriana got the tall officer to settle into a chair. He sat with his elbows on the chair arms and his three-fingered hands laced together over his chest. His usually smooth scales were rough from his feathery down protruding from beneath each one. He had a faint pinkish cast. His golden eyes were dilated.
Lopez smiled. If Enel was anything, it was honest, his every emotion was reflected in his demeanor, no matter how guarded he tried to be. She wondered briefly what the Ullian Shar’El made of being in his presence given he likely strongly broadcasted his recent memories on whatever telepathic channel she was attuned to.
A silence grew.
Adriana began, speaking softly, “I can see that you have certain thoughts about our ILO, dare I say feelings?”
Zub sat stiffly. His deep voice was barely a whisper. “My... feelings toward her are, shall we say, more complicated than I care to admit.”
The Hispanic woman smiled, now in familiar territory. “I’m happy to help you sort through them if you’d like. I prefer to know the truth about relations between the crew.”
Amanda popped into Adriana’s view beside the huge male’s shoulder. “TRUTH BOMB! Do you really think you or he are ready for that truth?”
Zub Enel’s golden irises, so striking against his dark scales, contracted. He turned his head to look over his shoulder. He turned his attention back to Adriana. His scaly lips compressed.
She realized she’d looked at her invisible sister. The Voth, trained by Starfleet to be a Security officer and now a Marine, had followed her eye movement like any warrior would in a face-to-face encounter. Based on her brief glance at her unseen sister, she was sure he was convincing himself she wasn’t taking him seriously enough to say anything of note.
She looked directly into his eyes. “Please continue. You were saying your feelings for Gemma are complicated.”
“Here it comes. Another tale of unrequited love,” Amanda said. The twin sister playfully smirked.
Adriana had tried hard not to look at her sister. Zub put his fingers into a steeple, heels of his hands resting on his chest, claws touching the tip of his square chin. His eyes narrowed. After beat or two of silence he said, “I recall at least one mission where you were troubled by visitations from your deceased – sister – was it? Is she back, Adriana? Or is this... something else entirely?”
"Nice deflect," Amanda chimed. "He's learned a few tricks from you it seems.
"Yes," the Counselor flat-out admitted. Maya's report was likely already in the hands of Captain Morningstar and it would be only a matter of time before everyone knew about the possible link between the anomaly and her missing sister. "Maya was researching some strange anomaly and... there is a possible theory that involves my sister.”
The tone and dynamic of the counseling session instantly changed. Adriana was the one allowing her emotions to flow and Zub offered the strength for her to continue.
She frowned. "I am just not sure what to believe right now. I feel guilt, hope, and fear. I joined Starfleet with the idea, and goal of finding my sister, and now I'm terrified as to what we may end up finding... if anything."
The hard angles of Zub Enel’s scaly face had softened. "Whatever it is that will be found, you will not be alone. We all will be there to support and help, no matter what."
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
and
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
"Shadows and Orders"
Previous post "Unexpected Session" by David and Marissa
=-=
Setting: NEW ALEXANDRIA, Koniki's Office
Stardate: 44352.0610
Admiral Charles Koniki stood behind his desk in the dimly lit office aboard NEW ALEXANDRIA, his hands clasped behind his back as he gazed at the glowing holographic display of the USS ANUBIS. The shimmering blue projection rotated slowly, highlighting the sleek design of the starship that had seen more than its fair share of strange missions and enigmatic discoveries.
Veronica Noiva, dressed in the standard black uniform of Starfleet Intelligence, stood at attention on the opposite side of the desk. Her expression was calm, her piercing brown eyes fixed on the Admiral. Though her posture exuded discipline, there was an undeniable ease in her demeanor, reflecting her confidence in the mission ahead.
“Noiva,” Koniki began, his voice measured and deliberate, “the USS ANUBIS is about to embark on a new mission, one that could unravel some long-standing mysteries. Captain Morningstar has requested additional support for his crew, particularly in the medical department. You’ll be rejoining them, again as part of his medical staff.”
Veronica Noiva nodded slightly. “Understood, Admiral. What specifics can you provide about the mission?” Her calm, calculating demeanor softened, replaced by the warm professionalism of a seasoned physician as her features morphed seamlessly into those of blonde-haired, blue-eyed Doctor Ava Noiva.
Koniki leaned forward, placing his palms on the desk. “Their destination is a celestial anomaly, an unusual disturbance that may have a connection to the ship’s Counselor, Adriana Lopez. She’s... integral to this mission, and I expect you to keep a close eye on her," the Admiral paused before adding, "and everyone else. Report anything unusual. The mission may seem simple, but I want to ensure there are no... surprises.”
Ava tilted her head, her voice calm but curious. “And if her involvement presents a risk?”
Koniki’s gaze sharpened, his voice dropping to a lower register. “You have your orders, Doctor. Support the crew. Protect the mission. And should anyone aboard become a threat to the safety of the ship or its objectives, you’ll handle it.” He held her gaze, the implication behind his words hanging in the air.
Ava’s lips pressed into a thin line. “Understood, sir.”
Koniki’s tone softened slightly as he straightened. “Officially, you’re there to aid the medical team and ensure the health of the crew. Unofficially…” He paused, his eyes narrowing, “we need to be certain the mission remains on track. This anomaly could provide valuable intelligence, and I trust your discretion to ensure there are no… complications.”
Ava gave a single nod. “I’ll do what’s necessary, Admiral.”
“Good,” Koniki said, his voice steady. “You’ll find everything you need in the mission briefing.” He tapped a control on his desk, and a data pad lit up on the edge of his desk, awaiting Ava’s retrieval. “Remember, Doctor Noiva: you’re there to protect the crew. All of them.”
The way he stressed the last words seemed purposeful, almost as though a hidden meaning lurked beneath them. Ava picked up the data pad and turned it over in her hands. She was already familiar with its contents, her primary mission was to monitor the woman and act if she deemed it necessary. The vial of silver liquid in her possession could neutralize any threat with precision, leaving no trace behind.
But none of that was meant to be spoken aloud, not even to Captain Morningstar. To the crew, Ava Noiva was just another skilled physician with an impeccable record. To Koniki, she was something far more precise: a scalpel in the shadows, wielded to excise threats before they became dangerous.
“Dismissed,” Koniki said, his tone final.
Ava turned on her heel and left the room, her boots clicking softly on the polished floor of NEW ALEXANDRIA. As the doors hissed shut, Ava allowed herself a brief moment of reflection. Soon, she would don the teal uniform of Starfleet Medical, a guise as comfortable as it was strategic, ensuring she would blend seamlessly into her role while keeping her true purpose concealed.
Adriana Lopez may hold the key to unraveling the strange celestial anomaly, but Noiva knew better than to focus solely on one thread of the tapestry.
=-=
Dawn Bohr
Lieutenant Ava Noiva
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
##########
"Mission Briefing"
Previous post: "Shadows and Orders" by Dawn
##########
"The stars don’t guide us; they challenge us to find our way."
-- Jean Claude Morningstar (Erik's Father)
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 1, Observation Lounge
Stardate: 44533.0800
The senior staff of the ANUBIS filed into the Observation Lounge, exchanging uncertain glances. The early morning summons hinted at something urgent, but the dimly lit room and the soft ambient glow of the docking arrays inside the secret NEW ALEXANDRIA base only deepened the mystery. At the head of the table sat Captain Erik Morningstar, calm yet expectant. Above the polished surface of the table hovered the holographic image of a swirling anomaly, its fragmented shadows dancing on the walls.
"Before we begin," Morningstar said, his tone steady, "please note that Doctor Ava Noiva will be rejoining our medical team. Admiral Koniki, as do I, believe that her expertise will be invaluable."
"Three doctors on one ship?" Sonja Paquette, the red-haired Chief Engineer, quipped with a mock groan. "Is this going to be one of those missions? Alright, Maya, let’s hear it... how are we saving the universe this time?"
Lieutenant Commander Maya, standing at the forefront with a PADD in hand, hesitated at the sudden shift of attention. Captain Morningstar gave her a reassuring nod. She acknowledged the Native American and stepped forward, her tone deliberate and measured.
"Two days ago, a spatial anomaly was discovered on the outskirts of the ALPHA-KRAILIAN SECTOR,” she began. The holographic image of the anomaly expanded, shimmering with distorted waves. “It defies all known scientific principles. Its composition, trajectory, and gravitational signature are unlike anything recorded in Federation history. But that’s not the most extraordinary aspect.”
Maya tapped her PADD, adding a pulsating waveform to the display. “These energy waves emitted by the anomaly resemble… brainwaves.”
Doctor Ava Noiva leaned forward, her brow furrowed. “They look human.”
“They are,” Maya confirmed, glancing around the table. “Preliminary analysis revealed that these fragmented patterns align closely with those of one of our own.”
A tense silence fell over the room. All eyes turned to Lieutenant Gemma, the Intelligence Liaison Officer. Her calm, calculating demeanour didn’t waver under the scrutiny, though her eyes narrowed slightly.
Before anyone could speak, Adriana Lopez broke the silence. “They’re not hers,” she said, her voice quiet but firm. “They’re mine… sort of.”
The Counselor’s knuckles turned white as she gripped the edge of the table. “Since I was six years old, I’ve had vivid hallucinations of my kidnapped sister. Over the years, they’ve grown stronger, showing me things I couldn’t possibly know. I… I’ve kept this hidden from most of you for a long time, but the truth is, these waves match what I’ve experienced during those episodes.”
Maya stepped in, her tone professional but tinged with empathy. “We used Counselor Lopez’s brainwave patterns as a template for comparison. The results were striking. It’s plausible that the anomaly is amplifying her neural activity or even facilitating a telepathic connection."
Gemma’s voice was sharp and cutting. “This ship is tasked with intelligence-gathering, not speculative research. If the anomaly is influencing Lopez, she’s compromised. She should be confined to quarters immediately.”
Commander Shar’El, seated to Morningstar’s right, countered with a firm tone. “This isn’t just about Lopez. If the anomaly poses a threat to one of our crew, it’s a potential attack on the ANUBIS. We’re duty-bound to investigate.”
Captain Morningstar, who had remained silent, observing the exchange, finally spoke. His voice carried the weight of authority. “This is more than a question of science or protocol. It’s a question of trust. If this anomaly threatens one of us, it threatens all of us. Lieutenant Commander Maya, I want a full analysis. Counselor Lopez, you’ll work with Maya and the medical team to explore the extent of this connection.”
“Captain,” Gemma forcefully interjected, “with all due respect, this is a matter of security. Lopez is a liability. Beyond that, Commander Shar'El herself described this as an 'attack' against the crew. How do we know that this offensive, if it is one, is solely directed towards her? We ALL could be at risk, so we need to address this NOW and limit our vulnerability as much as possible.” The ILO quickly glanced at the Sec/Tac almost daring her to argue her objection. Reluctantly, Ya'Han nodded her head in agreement.
Before Adriana could respond, Sonja slammed her fist on the table. “Adriana is no danger to anyone on this ship, and you know it!" Her fiery glare met Gemma’s unflinching gaze.
Counselor Lopez understood the source of Gemma's objection. Her mind, as fractured as it was, gave the ILO a unique perspective on how dangerous not being in full control of one's thoughts could become.
“Enough,” Morningstar commanded, his voice cutting through the tension. “Gemma is correct about protocol. Adriana, I am sorry, but until we fully understand this situation, you are temporarily relieved of duty and confined to quarters. I am not isolating or placing you on quarantine, I am simply looking out for your protection as well as that of the crew.”
Adriana’s voice wavered, but she nodded. “I fully understand, Captain.”
Morningstar rose to his feet, signalling the end of the meeting. “This anomaly could hold answers to questions we didn’t know we needed to ask. The ANUBIS departs in two hours. Dismissed.”
As the senior staff dispersed, Lieutenant Jayson Stark leaned toward Adriana. “We’ll figure this out,” he said softly. Ya’Han, standing near the exit, offered a reassuring nod. “You’re not alone in this.”
Adriana lingered for a moment, staring at the holographic anomaly, its pulsating form both a mystery and a beacon. Beyond the observation lounge’s windows, the stars seemed to shimmer with anticipation, as if the universe itself was holding its breath for what the ANUBIS would uncover next.
As soon as they were alone, Doctor Sofia Anderson tugged on the scaly arm of Lieutenant Zub Enel. The towering Voth Marine Commanding Officer glanced down at the petit woman now standing by his side.
“You knew about Adriana and her sister,” Sofia said in a tone that merged accusation and interest in a perfectly friendly manner. "I didn't see any surprise on your face when she made the announcement."
"Adriana ran into me last night, and we ended up in her office," Zub explained. "She was exceptionally distracted, but I believe she had hoped to conduct my psychological evaluation at that time."
"Guessing that's not what happened," Sofia teased.
"No," the Voth confirmed. "Counsellor Lopez instead told me about the anomaly Lt. Cmdr. Maya discovered and how they ended up comparing Adriana's brainwave patterns to the fragmented energy readings of the anomaly." Zub took a moment to gather his thoughts before adding, "This situation is proving to be very difficult for her."
"It would be difficult for anyone," Anderson nodded. "Losing a sibling, never knowing what happened to them for decades, only to find some fragmented matching brainwaves from a celestial anomaly. She is going to need all of our support and strength. We rarely go into a mission with such high expectations, alright, maybe not us but her. She is hoping, consciously or not, that we are going to find her sister alive and well, and we both know that the universe is not overly inclined to give any one of us the happy ending we hope for."
Zub's scales ever so faintly vibrated at the thought. "Maybe this time will be different."
"Maybe," the CMO said forcing a smile on her list. "That means there are now at least three of us with grand hopes for this mission. Hopefully, that will be enough to sway the universe in our favour for once."
--==(/\)==--
Francois Charette {fcharette1969@gmail.com}
Captain Erik Morningstar
Commanding Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
--
"I used to think it was awful that life was so unfair. Then I thought, wouldn't it be much worse if life were fair and all the terrible things that happen to us come because we actually deserve them. So now I take great comfort in the general hostility and unfairness of the universe."
- Marcus Cole, Babylon 5
"Dual Roles"
Previous post "Mission Briefing" by Francois
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Adriana Lopez's Quarters
Stardate: 44353.0915
Adriana Lopez sat cross-legged on the couch in her quarters, a PADD balanced on her knee. The isolation of being confined to quarters felt simultaneously like a punishment and a relief. On the one hand, it spared her the awkward conversations about her connection to the anomaly. On the other, it amplified the loneliness and made the visions of her twin sister, Amanda, even more haunting.
A chime broke the silence.
“Come in,” Adriana called, setting the PADD aside.
The doors slid open, revealing a cheerful woman with long, straight, light copper hair and an inviting smile. She wore a teal medical uniform but carried herself with an ease that hinted at something beyond her rank.
“Lieutenant Adriana Lopez?” the woman asked, stepping inside.
Adriana nodded, wary. “That’s me. And you are?”
“Brooke Noiva,” the woman said, her tone light and disarming. “I’m Ava’s sister. Since the ship’s Counselor is currently… unavailable,” Brooke gestured kindly toward Adriana, “I thought it might be helpful to offer my assistance. Two heads are better than one, especially when dealing with something as complex as a celestial anomaly. I hope you don't mind?”
Adriana raised an eyebrow. “I didn’t realize we had a second counselor onboard.”
“Well,” Brooke said with a slight shrug, “I’m not technically part of the crew. Just an extra pair of hands for this mission. And with Ava busy in Sickbay, I thought I’d offer my services where they’re most needed.” She paused, her expression softening. “You, for instance. Mind if I sit?”
Adriana hesitated. “I’m not exactly looking for counseling right now.”
Brooke smiled warmly. “Fair enough. But sometimes just talking helps. I’m here if you want to share anything, no strings, no judgment. Just someone to listen. As a counselor yourself, you know how important it is to have someone ready and willing to listen. No?”
After a moment of consideration, Adriana gestured toward the chair opposite her. “All right. Have a seat.”
Brooke settled in, her posture relaxed but attentive. “I hear you’ve been having visions,” she said gently. "But those were not visions, now were they?" Adriana’s guard rose slightly, but Brooke’s demeanor remained calm. “Don’t worry,” she added. “I’m not here to analyze you or tell you what’s real or not. I just want to understand what you’re going through.”
The Counselor sighed, leaning back. “It’s… complicated. I’ve been seeing Amanda. My sister. She’s been gone for years, but lately, she’s been more vivid than ever. It’s like she’s trying to tell me something about this anomaly like she’s tied to it somehow.”
Brooke listened intently, her gaze unwavering. “And do you feel she’s… real? Or more of a manifestation of your thoughts and emotions?”
Before Adriana could answer, the faintest shimmer appeared to her right. Adriana’s breath hitched as Amanda’s familiar form came into view, her expression as vibrant and teasing as always.
“She’s real enough,” Adriana whispered, her voice barely audible.
Brooke tilted her head. “What was that?”
Adriana shook her head quickly. “Nothing. Just thinking out loud.”
Amanda, visible only to her twin, grinned and perched on the armrest of the couch. “You’ve got a live one here, Adriana. She’s sharper than she looks.”
Ignoring Amanda’s commentary, Adriana continued. “She’s not just a memory. When she’s here, it feels… like she’s really here. Like we’re connected in some way that goes beyond anything I can explain.”
Brooke nodded thoughtfully. “Sometimes, the hardest questions lead to the answers we least expect. And those answers... well, they can change everything. That connection must feel comforting, even if it’s difficult to understand. I am guessing that you actually miss her when she is not there, right?”
Adriana gave a small smile. “It is,” Lopez agreed. "And I did," she added. "There was a time when she was just not there, no matter how bad things got, or how much I needed her, she just wasn't there."
"I'm sorry," Amanda said, the image of the twin sister sounding as if she had been ready to cry. "I wanted to be there, Adriana. I screamed for you from wherever I was, but it was like no one could hear me."
Adriana blinked, her chest tightening. She swallowed hard, her voice silent. **I… I needed you so much, Amanda. You don’t know how hard it was.**
Amanda’s gaze softened, her voice trembling as if she had heard Adriana’s unspoken thoughts. “I’m here now. Please, believe that.”
The conversation continued for several minutes, with Brooke carefully steering the discussion without prying too deeply. By the end, Adriana felt lighter, as though some of the weight she’d been carrying had shifted.
“Thank you,” Adriana said sincerely.
Brooke smiled warmly as she rose. “Anytime. You know where to find me if you need to talk some more, right?”
Adriana nodded and smiled.
=-=
Setting: Corridor Outside Adriana’s Quarters
Stardate: 44353.0945
Brooke stepped out of Adriana’s quarters, the doors sliding shut behind her. She exhaled quietly, her calm demeanor never faltering.
“Interesting approach,” came a voice from nearby.
Brooke turned to see Gemma leaning casually against the wall, her expression unreadable.
“Gemma,” Brooke greeted smoothly. “I wasn’t expecting to see you here. Are you bored? Not enough happening in the IGC to keep you busy?”
“I wasn’t expecting to see you here,” Gemma countered, her tone pointed. “Aren’t you a little… extra for this mission?”
Brooke’s smile didn’t waver. “The mission called for extra hands. Besides, having family nearby makes the work easier. wouldn't you agree?”
Gemma raised an eyebrow. “Family?”
Brooke nodded. “Ava’s my sister. We’ve both been assigned quarters, right next to each other, in fact. You can confirm it in the ship’s logs if you’d like. That is part of your job and duties as ILO, to check up on people, is it not?”
Gemma studied her for a long moment, her expression unreadable. “I’ll check more than just the logs and quarter assignments. If you’re hiding something, I will find it, take my word... I'll be keeping an eye on you, for now.”
With that, she pushed off the wall and strolled away, leaving the Counselor standing alone in the corridor.
Brooke’s smile faded slightly, replaced by a glimmer of calculation in her eyes. “For now,” she echoed, her thoughts already spinning with possibilities and dangers this mission might bring for her and Ava.
=-=
Dawn Bohr
Lieutenant Ava Noiva
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
=-=
"Back In Action"
Previous post: "Dual Role" by Dawn
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44353.1000
"All umbilical connections have been withdrawn," Jayson announced from the Operations station. "We have been cleared for departure."
"Right on time," Shar'El half-grinned, glancing at the time display above the main viewscreen.
=-=
Setting: NEW ALEXANDRIA, Docking Area
Stardate: 44353.1001
The atmosphere within NEW ALEXANDRIA’s asteroid docking bay buzzed with energy. Machinery hummed, and voices murmured over intercoms. The SCARAB-CLASS starship gleamed under bright overhead lights. Its sleek nacelles, upper array section, and distinctive saucer design were a testament to advanced engineering. The vessel hovered with quiet power, poised for the missions that awaited beyond the asteroid’s protective walls.
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44353.1001
On the ANUBIS’s bridge, Captain Erik Morningstar stood tall, his eyes fixed on the forward viewscreen. Beside him, the ship’s Avatar monitored the vessel’s operational status. Her calm presence exuded assurance, a seamless blend of human intuition and machine precision. Behind Morningstar, Commander Shar'El scanned telemetry data on her console, her sharp gaze missing nothing.
“Thrusters to one-quarter power,” Morningstar ordered, his deep voice steady.
Lieutenant Junior Grade A'Janni, seated at the Flight Control console, responded promptly. "Aye, sir. Thrusters engaged. Realigning ship orientation to heading zero-zero-five mark two." His ears flicked with focus, and a grin tugged at his lips as his paws danced over the controls.
The thrusters hummed, and the ANUBIS shifted. On the viewscreen, the massive space doors ahead loomed closer, their metallic surfaces blending into the asteroid’s rocky frame.
“Helm, adjust pitch by two degrees,” Shar'El instructed, her tone measured.
“Sensors confirm external clearance. No obstructions along the exit path,” Ya’Han reported from Tactical.
Morningstar’s lips curled into a faint smile. “Good. Let’s make this look effortless.”
The ANUBIS rotated gracefully, her movements a precise symphony of light, power, and engineering.
=-=
Setting: NEW ALEXANDRIA, Docking Area
Stardate: 44353.1002
The docking bay became a stage as the SCARAB-CLASS starship began her deliberate exit. Engineers paused, their gazes fixed on the polished hull reflecting the bay’s lights. From the Observation Deck, murmurs of admiration spread as the ANUBIS's thrusters fired in perfect synchronization.
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44353.1002
“Thrusters are holding steady. Approaching the release point,” Jayson reported.
Morningstar turned to Shar’El. “Commander, the honors are yours.”
Shar’El nodded. “Helm, take us to half thrusters. Steady as she goes.”
On the viewscreen, the ANUBIS glided forward, her progress slow and deliberate. The massive space doors, initially dormant, roared to life just as the ship neared. The mechanisms parted with dramatic precision, revealing the vastness of space.
“Space doors fully open,” Ya’Han confirmed. “Clearance granted.”
Morningstar’s gaze remained fixed. “Take us out, nice and easy.”
=-=
Setting: SPACE, Just Outside NEW ALEXANDRIA
Stardate: 44353.1004
As the ANUBIS crossed the threshold, the asteroid’s lights faded behind her, replaced by the infinite expanse of stars. Her nacelles flared to life, their blue glow cutting through the darkness like twin beacons.
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Main Engineering
Stardate: 44353.1005
Lieutenant Commander Sonja Paquette stood with arms crossed, watching the diagnostic display. The ship’s systems reported optimal performance, and a satisfied grin spread across her freckled face.
“Good girl,” she murmured, patting the bulkhead. “Back in action, just where you belong.”
The Avatar tilted her head, her expression serene. “You speak as if the ANUBIS is sentient. I'm right here.”
Sonja smirked. “Maybe she is. She’s got a soul, no matter what anyone says. And she’s a fighter, just like me—and you.”
"The Captain just ordered Warp 5," Ani reported.
"Warp 5? Come on, Captain, she can cruise at Warp 8 and still purr like a kitten!" Sonja’s voice carried playful exasperation.
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44353.1006
Morningstar sat and leaned back in his chair, pride evident in his expression. “Set course for the ALPHA-KRAILIAN SECTOR.”
Shar’El raised an eyebrow. “Should we not increase speed? Sonja will likely protest the ANUBIS being kept at such a leisurely pace.”
The Captain chuckled. “Helm, increase speed to Warp 7. Let’s make sure we all get there in one piece.”
=-=
Setting: SPACE
Stardate: 44353.1007
The ANUBIS surged forward, her engines roaring as she disappeared into the stars, leaving the asteroid’s shadow behind.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
"Shadows in the Logs"
Previous post: "Back in Action"
Location: USS ANUBIS, IGC
Stardate: 44353.1320
Gemma leaned back in her chair, her fingers drumming a restless rhythm on the console. The IGC was quiet, save for the hum of the techs sifting through data streams. Her eyes flicked to the holo-display showcasing the logs of Brooke and Ava Noiva. Two separate sets of movements, two quarters, two distinct bio-readings, everything checked out.
And yet, something didn’t sit right.
"Enjoying yourself, Lieutenant?" a smooth voice broke through her thoughts. Gemma’s sharp reflexes had her display powered down with a swipe before she turned toward the doorway. There, leaning with calculated ease, was Ani, her mechanical eyes faintly glowing with curiosity.
Gemma snarled. "Don’t you have other parts of the ship to haunt?"
Ani stepped inside, unfazed. "The IGC is the nerve center of the ANUBIS, which makes it my domain as much as yours. After all," she added with a faint smile, "I am the ANUBIS."
"Then maybe your creator should have installed a sense of privacy in your circuits," Gemma muttered.
Ani tilted her head, her voice taking on a slightly amused tone. "Lieutenant Commander Paquette may have overlooked that in favor of giving me unparalleled access to everything aboard this ship, including IGC data streams. Not that I was actively monitoring you, of course," she added innocently.
"Sonja needs to review your humor subroutine," Gemma said sharply, "and maybe your ‘reading the room’ protocols while she’s at it."
"I’ll add it to my upgrade schedule," Ani replied smoothly. Her tone then shifted, adopting a neutral yet inquisitive edge. "But since I am here, perhaps I can assist? You’ve been analyzing these files for several hours now, and I couldn’t help but notice your frustration. It is... unusual for you."
Gemma hesitated.
"You don't need her," Anya Petrov growled, her thick Russian accent even more abrasive than usual.
"Sending her away would be a mistake," Wimda countered, the Uxali scientist having a unique perspective on the ship's avatar. "She can interface with systems and analyze data in ways none of us can. We need her."
Lantra Tolembra, the Tarellian negotiator and deal-maker joined in. "As much as it may sound strange for me to say this, Wimda may be right. Ani is in a truly unique position to offer assistance in a way that no one else can."
Gemma sighed, silencing the voices in her head. Dismissing Ani wouldn’t help her current dilemma, and as the ILO, she had learned to use every available asset. "Fine. These Noiva sisters, all 26 of them, allegedly, are an enigma. Their personnel files from NEW ALEXANDRIA are flawless. The internal sensors show Ava and Brooke moving independently, eating at different times, and working separate shifts. Yet, they’ve never been seen together. Not once."
Ani frowned, or at least simulated the expression with uncanny precision. "Peculiar. Do you suspect the sensors are malfunctioning?"
"No," Gemma said, her tone clipped. "The opposite. The data is too clean, too perfect, like someone went out of their way to make it look authentic."
"Falsifying internal sensor data on a ship like the ANUBIS would require either extraordinary skill or intimate access to the systems," Ani pointed out.
"Exactly," Gemma replied. "And that’s what bothers me. If they’re this good, why leave a trail I can follow?"
Ani studied the ILO for a moment, her mechanical eyes narrowing slightly. "Perhaps you’re approaching this from the wrong angle. Instead of trying to catch them, why not observe them in an environment where they aren’t thinking about being watched? Sometimes, indirect observation yields more than direct scrutiny. A lesson the ANUBIS itself taught me through countless simulations. My creators may not have designed me to think like you, but I’ve learned to adapt."
Gemma’s eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "A situation where they’re distracted…"
"You’re resourceful," Ani said with a faint smile. "I have no doubt you’ll figure it out."
The android straightened and headed toward the doorway, pausing only to add, "By the way, Sonja may have been beyond inspired in creating me, but even I have my limitations. You, Lieutenant, do not. According to your own personnel file, which is heavily guarded, you have a great many resources you can call upon to help you deal with this mystery."
Gemma watched Ani leave, her mind already racing. Turning back to her console, she pulled up the internal sensor logs, cross-referencing the sisters’ movements with recent anomalies aboard the ship. One detail caught her eye: a moment when Brooke Noiva entered her quarters, only for Ava Noiva to leave the next second, without any apparent crossover time.
A slow smile spread across Gemma’s face. "Gotcha."
She stood and stretched, her nanites shifting her appearance into the more reserved form of Za’Ran, the unassuming black-haired Nylan. If she was going to dig deeper into this mystery, subtlety would be her greatest asset.
"Za’Ran’s no good for this," a voice growled in her mind, the sharp-edged tone unmistakably Gabrielle Wolfe’s. "You’re forgetting subtlety."
Another voice, calm and measured, countered: "She’s the best for shadows, and this ship is full of them, and we have wasted enough time on this already." Gemma shook her head, her own voice finally silencing the noise.
The Noiva sisters might have fooled the ship, the logs, and even the sensors, but they weren’t going to fool her.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
"Shadows of Connections"
Previous post: "Shadows in the Logs” by Rachel
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Adriana Lopez's Quarters
Stardate: 44353.1325
Adriana sat cross-legged on the plush carpet of her quarters, the dim lighting casting soft shadows over the array of PADDs scattered around her. Each device contained a fragment of insight into the senior staff of the ANUBIS, a collection of profiles she had intended to review for weeks but never found the focus to confront until now. The ship hummed with the low-frequency vibrations of warp travel, a constant reminder of their journey toward the celestial anomaly in the ALPHA-KRAILIAN SECTOR, and of her own uncertain place in this unfolding mystery.
Adriana’s gaze rested on one particular PADD, its screen displaying Gemma’s dossier. The details were as fascinating as they were unsettling: severe multiple-personality disorder compounded by cellular nanites that altered her physical appearance to reflect the dominant personality at any given time. The notes spoke of progress, of a deeper understanding Gemma had gained over time, but also of persistent disassociation. Each personality was perceived by Gemma as a distinct individual, not an extension of herself. The parallels were not lost on Adriana, who felt an uncomfortable kinship with the woman.
“You have to admit,” came Amanda’s voice, tinged with its usual warmth and mischief, “it’s kind of comforting. Knowing you’re not the only one who’s... different.”
Adriana barely looked up as her twin sister’s familiar form materialized across from her, legs folded in the same casual way. Amanda’s presence felt so natural, so real, that it was easy to forget, for a fleeting moment, that she wasn’t truly there.
“Comforting isn’t the word I’d use,” Adriana replied, her voice quiet but steady. She flicked her gaze back to the PADD, though her focus on the text had all but evaporated. “And I’m not sure that seeing you right now helps my case with Gemma or the captain.”
Amanda chuckled softly, her smile both gentle and knowing. “Oh, come on. You don’t think they’ve already labeled you as crazy? I mean, let’s be real, sis. This isn’t exactly normal behavior.” She gestured to the scattered PADDs, then to herself, as if she were an accessory in Adriana’s growing collection of unorthodox realities.
Adriana’s shoulders tightened, her fingers curling slightly over the edge of the PADD she held. “Maybe it’s not normal,” she admitted after a long pause. “But normal doesn’t explain this connection to the anomaly. It doesn’t explain why your voice, your image, has been so much more vivid since we started heading for it.”
Amanda tilted her head, studying Adriana with a blend of curiosity and affection. “You think the anomaly might be the key to finding me,” she said, not as a question but as a quiet statement of truth.
Adriana hesitated, her throat tightening as emotions surged within her. “I want it to be,” she whispered, her voice cracking under the weight of the confession. “But I’m scared it’s not. What if... what if all of this is just me? What if you’re just a projection of everything I haven’t been able to let go of?”
Amanda leaned forward, her expression softening. “And if that’s the case? If I’m nothing more than your way of coping with losing me? Does that make me any less real to you?”
The question lingered in the air, heavy with implications Adriana wasn’t ready to confront. She dropped her gaze to her lap, feeling the sting of unshed tears and the oppressive weight of uncertainty. She wanted to believe, needed to believe, that the anomaly held answers, that it wasn’t just some cosmic coincidence drawing her deeper into her own fractured psyche. Yet the uncertainty gnawed at her, a relentless whisper that questioned whether she was chasing a phantom. Could the anomaly truly hold the key to resolving her pain? Or was she simply clinging to a mirage, desperate to fill the void Amanda's absence had carved into her soul? The possibility of the latter terrified her, a fear as sharp and unyielding as the hope that drove her forward. But the fear that it might reveal nothing, or worse, shatter her fragile grip on hope, was almost too much to bear.
“I don’t know,” she said finally, her voice barely audible. “I don’t know what I’ll do if this turns out to be nothing. I can't lose you... not again.”
Amanda reached out, her hand stopping just short of Adriana’s. “Then let’s hope it’s not nothing. Let’s hope it’s everything. Remember, I was there when you were fighting for your life onboard the KROGEN. Yes, I admit, at the time, I told you it was your mind imagining me to help cope with the trauma. But that wasn’t the full truth. I was there, really there, by your side. I was there when you and this crew faced the Shadows. I was there then, and I will continue to be here, no matter what you find in that anomaly."
For a fleeting moment, Adriana allowed herself to meet Amanda’s gaze, finding in it the faintest glimmer of solace. Whether it was a figment of her imagination or something more profound, she couldn’t say. But for now, it was enough to keep her grounded, even as the ANUBIS hurtled toward the unknown.
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
-=-=-
"Hunting Shadows"
Previous post: "Shadows of Connections” by Marissa
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Corridor
Stardate: 44353.1345
Following a strange report of what appeared to be a black-haired Nylaan entering a secured area, Ya'Han decided to investigate in person. While strongly suspecting the cause, she was clueless as to the reasoning behind it.
"Lieutenant Ya'Han," a husky yet gentle voice called out. "With the ship heading to the anomaly, I would have expected you to be on the bridge."
The red-and-black-haired Nylaan turned to see the smiling Voth MCO approaching. "The ANUBIS is en route to the ALPHA-KRAILIAN SECTOR with sensors showing nothing ahead, so I thought I’d look into a report about another Nylaan onboard."
"Another Nylaan?" Zub repeated in surprise.
"That's what I'm here to confirm," Ya'Han replied, offering a half-smile.
"And you're investigating alone? We both know how dangerous Nylaans can be."
That made Ya'Han chuckle. "Internal sensors confirm I’m the only one onboard—unless the other Nylaan can avoid them, which is unlikely. Either this is a misunderstanding or something much stranger."
"Gemma?" Zub suggested nervously. "Could she hide herself like that? Why would she?"
"Exactly what I’m trying to find out," Ya’Han said. “But this isn’t an official inquiry—I don’t want her to feel cornered or attacked.”
"Care for some company?" the imposing Voth asked with a toothy grin. "Unofficially, of course."
After a thoughtful pause, the Nylaan Chief of Security nodded. "If anyone can keep up, it’s you."
"Lettuce," the towering reptile quipped. “As they say in the produce business.”
The Nylaan gave him a glance over her shoulder, amusement briefly crossing her expression. "That joke was almost complete—you're improving. But let’s focus. This could get complicated."
Zub matched her stride without effort, adjusting his long gait to her shorter one. “If this other Nylaan is Gemma or a manifestation of her, it could be tied to the anomaly we’re approaching.”
Ya'Han’s only reply was a flick of her thick mane, signaling that the thought had crossed her mind long ago.
The pair approached the dim corridor outside cargo storage when Ya'Han caught movement ahead. From the shadows emerged a figure, Gemma, or perhaps not. This version of her stood poised, her defensive posture contradicting the faint vulnerability in her shifting, unsteady eyes.
"Za'Ran?" Ya'Han called gently, stopping a respectful distance away. Her red-and-black locks shimmered under the sparse light, setting her apart as a commanding but non-threatening presence.
"Who sent you?" Za'Ran's voice was strained, laced with both fear and defiance. Her hand hovered near her belt, an unspoken threat evident.
"No one sent us," Ya'Han replied softly, exuding calm authority. "We’re here to help you."
For a moment, the hardened facade cracked. Gemma’s fragmented alter ego blinked, the brightness in her eyes dimming. "Help..." she murmured, the word trembling as though foreign to her. Her expression wavered, the faintest hint of despair surfacing.
“Because you’re part of our crew,” Zub said, his gravelly tone unexpectedly gentle. “We protect our own. No exceptions.”
Za’Ran froze, her breathing unsteady. Her eyes darted between the Nylaan and Voth before a whispered plea escaped her lips. "No... You don’t understand. I... I can’t…" Her voice broke.
Ya’Han stepped closer, careful to maintain her steady tone. "You don’t need to do this alone. We have someone who can help. Will you let us take you to her?"
For a long, tense moment, Za'Ran remained still, trembling. When her hand dropped from her belt, it wasn’t surrender, it was resignation. "No Sickbay..." she whispered, barely audible. "Please, not there."
The plea was raw, laden with fear and anguish. The sight of Gemma, so strong, detached, and unshakeable, reduced to this fragile state was heart-wrenching. Ya'Han and Zub exchanged a look, their silent debate unspoken but clear: they needed to act decisively and delicately.
Ya'Han inhaled deeply, drawing upon her own buried strength. Flashes of her past, of fear, rebellion, and survival, danced in her mind, lending her the resolve needed. Her black-and-red hair brightened to royal purple as she made a bold choice.
"Za'Ran," she said firmly, her voice cutting through the tense silence. "You know who I am."
The black-haired Nylaan’s eyes widened before she fell to her knees, trembling uncontrollably. "Your Highness..." she stammered, her tone shifting to one of abject fear and reverence.
Zub leaned closer, his voice low. "That’s quite the reaction."
"My father was a terrifying man," Ya'Han replied quietly before addressing the kneeling woman. "You will come with us. You need help, Za'Ran."
“No…” she whispered, her trembling growing. “Please, I beg you. Not Sickbay.”
The vulnerability in her voice broke something within both Ya'Han and Zub. "She’s truly fractured," Ya’Han murmured.
"We need someone who can piece her back together," Zub rumbled solemnly.
Ya'Han tapped her communicator. "Ya'Han to Adriana."
=/\= Adriana here. Go ahead. =/\=
"We need your help. It’s Gemma."
=/\= Gemma? Bring her to me. I’ll do my best. =/\=
Nodding to Zub, Ya'Han silently indicated for him to take Za'Ran into his protective arms, their mission clear but far from over.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
and
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
"Shadowed Calculations"
Previous post: "Hunting Shadows"
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Quarters assigned to Ava Noiva
Stardate: 44353.1400
Chloe Noiva slipped silently into the dimly lit quarters. The door slid shut behind her with a soft hiss, leaving no trace of her intrusion. Officially, this space belonged to Ava Noiva, but for Chloe, such technicalities were trivial at best and irrelevant at worst. She moved with practiced precision, her black, shoulder-length hair brushing lightly against her crisp uniform collar as she crossed the room. Her brown eyes scanned the surroundings, confirming that nothing had been disturbed since her previous "visit."
Settling at the desk, Chloe withdrew a small PADD from a hidden compartment in her satchel. The device’s matte screen sprang to life, displaying the secure interface she had designed for this very purpose. A quick glance at the corner of the screen confirmed the encrypted channel to Admiral Koniki was active.
She began to type.
^^^^^^
To: Admiral Koniki
Subject: Interim Report: Quantum Interference Field Generator (QIFG)
Admiral,
As per your directive, I initiated the field testing of the Quantum Interference Field Generator (QIFG) under controlled conditions earlier this cycle. The device performed within acceptable operational parameters; however, the results fell short of the intended outcome. While the generator succeeded in producing measurable interference across multiple tiers of complex systems, the anticipated destabilization effects were minimal.
Preliminary analysis suggests that the target system architecture has undergone significant upgrades since its initial conception and activation. The layers of redundancy and adaptive protocols embedded within the systems were far more robust than predicted. While the interference did register on lower-level diagnostics, the system's capacity for self-correction mitigated any lasting impact. The ripple effects were largely cosmetic, with superficial lags, and localized failures that resolved almost immediately.
Notably, the interference field’s harmonic oscillation frequencies failed to reach the core parameters hypothesized to be critical to achieving full disruption. Attempts to recalibrate in situ were constrained by the time-sensitive nature of the operation.
Conclusion: While the QIFG has demonstrated some potential in its current iteration, its effectiveness is severely limited against the advanced systems encountered. Additional refinements are required to amplify the disruptive potential and bypass the target’s adaptive safeguards. Further testing and recalibration are essential before any subsequent deployment.
Given the outcome, I am prepared to implement contingency strategies should the primary objective remain unattainable. I will continue to evaluate the situation and monitor for potential vulnerabilities in real-time operations.
Awaiting further instructions.
Respectfully,
Field Agent GAMMA 02
^^^^^^
Chloe reread the report, her meticulous nature unwilling to leave any detail unchecked. A shadow of frustration flickered across her composed exterior as she reflected on the field test. The interference field had been a calculated gamble, one she’d hoped would offer a clean solution. Its failure was a grim reminder of the stakes and her design: perfection in action.
Her thoughts wandered briefly to the contingency strategies, with personality integrations ready to step forward should the need arise. Olivia’s quiet precision, Maeve’s subtle observational expertise, and Xenna’s impeccable tactical foresight were just a thought away, waiting to be called upon. They were not just sisters; they were facets of a singular, flawless whole.
Chloe allowed herself a fleeting reflection on the hardwired nature of these personalities. Unlike others, her facets were fixed. And yet, perhaps this rigidity was its own strength, a flawless design resistant to instability. Still, a whisper of curiosity lingered about adaptability—a trait that both fascinated and repelled her. She dismissed the thought almost immediately; now was not the time for such musings.
Placing the PADD back in her satchel, she allowed herself a brief moment of consideration. The silver liquid, her ultimate fallback, remained an option as dangerous as it was uncertain. If the interference field could not neutralize the target, then a more direct approach might be required. But for now, more data was needed, data only time and close observation would yield.
Standing, Chloe smoothed the front of her uniform and cast one last glance at the silent quarters. With Ava’s medical precision and Eleanor’s strategic acumen simmering just beneath the surface, Chloe knew that failure was not an option. Not for her. Not for any of them.
Then, as quietly as she had entered, she was gone.
=-=
Dawn Bohr
Lieutenant Ava Noiva
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
"Fractured Minds, Fractured Realities"
Previous post: "Shadowed Calculations” by Dawn
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Adriana Lopez's Quarters
Stardate: 44353.1415
Adriana paced her quarters, the unease tightening her chest with every passing moment. Ya’Han’s brief, hurried call had been unsettling. “We need your help. It’s Gemma,” the Nylaan’s voice had said, clipped and tense. That was it, no further details, no context, only an implicit urgency that left Adriana’s mind racing through worst-case scenarios.
The soft hum of the ANUBIS’s engines provided little comfort as Adriana tried to focus on her breathing, but it did nothing to quiet the chaos in her thoughts. What could have happened? She knew Gemma’s complex nature made her resilient but also vulnerable in ways few could understand.
As if sensing her thoughts, Amanda appeared, materializing like a memory slipping into focus. She leaned casually against the bulkhead, her arms crossed, a lopsided grin playing on her lips.
“You look like you’re about to jump out of your skin, sis,” Amanda quipped, her voice light but her eyes serious.
Adriana exhaled sharply, the sight of her twin a mixed blessing. “This isn’t the time for jokes, Amanda. If something’s wrong with Gemma, it could be tied to the anomaly.”
Amanda tilted her head, considering the possibility. “Could be. I mean, if that thing is messing with your head, why not hers too? She’s got enough people up there to throw a party.”
“Amanda!” Adriana snapped, her voice cutting through the room. “This isn’t funny. If the anomaly is affecting her...”
“Then you’ll figure it out,” Amanda interrupted, her tone softening. “You always do, hermana.”
Adriana opened her mouth to respond, but the sharp chime of the door stopped her. She turned toward the sound, her heart pounding. Amanda gave a knowing look but said nothing, fading into the edges of Adriana’s awareness as the door slid open.
Zub Enel stood on the other side, his massive frame filling the doorway. The Voth’s scaled skin shimmered faintly under the corridor lights, and his piercing golden eyes locked onto Adriana’s with grim determination. In his arms, cradled like a fragile artifact, was Gemma, or at least, a version of her. Her black hair and facial features bore an uncanny resemblance to Ya’Han, standing just behind the reptilian giant. Gemma’s body twitched faintly, and her expression shifted rapidly, as if flickering between personalities. Her eyes, though open, were unfocused and distant.
“She needs you,” Zub said, his deep voice steady but tinged with urgency. He stepped into the room, his presence commanding and protective.
Adriana felt a wave of dread as she stepped aside to let him pass. “What happened?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Zub gently lowered Gemma onto the couch and exchanged a glance with Ya’Han, knowing her explanation would be far better than his.
“We found her like this, sneaking around, confused,” Ya’Han quickly explained, her voice calm but hurried. “Then she begged us not to take her to Sickbay.”
Adriana’s brow furrowed. “That makes sense, sort of. Satella did mention a few times that Gemma’s nanites make it impossible for her to be scanned. So there is little anyone in sickbay would be able to do”
“There was something else,” Zub added, his tone graver. “She seemed... scared.”
“Gemma? Scared?” Adriana whispered, disbelief creeping into her voice. She knelt beside Gemma, her hand trembling as she reached out to touch the woman’s wrist. The pulse was steady but unnervingly faint. “Gemma,” she said softly, leaning closer. “Can you hear me? It’s Adriana.”
Gemma’s body convulsed slightly, her face briefly shifting into another personality before reverting. Her lips moved soundlessly as if struggling to communicate, while her eyes darted erratically.
“I think she’s locked inside her mind,” Adriana murmured, glancing back at Zub and Ya’Han. “Her nanites might be trying to reset whatever happened to her.”
Amanda reappeared in Adriana’s peripheral vision, her expression unreadable. “You don’t have to figure this out alone,” she said softly. “She’s not the only one with people who care about her.”
Adriana hesitated, feeling the weight of Amanda’s words as she turned her focus back to Gemma. Whatever was happening, it was far beyond her expertise, but the shared concern in the room was palpable. They would figure it out together.
“Whatever’s happening,” Adriana finally said, her voice steadying, “we’ll help her through it. She’s not alone in this.”
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
"Together, As One"
Previous post: "Fractured Minds, Fractured Realities"
Location: Gemma's Mindscape
Stardate: 44353.1420
The woman stood in the center of an environment as fractured and chaotic as her psyche. Shards of memories floated around her, fragments of a life she didn’t remember and perhaps never lived. The dominant feature was a cold, sterile chamber resembling SECTION I of NEW ALEXANDRIA, the secretive facility where she first woke up. Metallic walls glimmered under dim lighting, and a faint hum of machinery buzzed in the background. A ghostly bracelet, inscribed with the letters “G_MMA,” hovered in the air, a reminder of her enigmatic origins. Around her, personalities flickered into existence like holograms, each bringing their distinct energy into the space.
"This interference isn't just external," declared Wimdalli, the Uxali scientist, her skin shimmering under the fluorescent light. She paced with frenetic energy, her brown eyes scanning an imaginary data readout. "We were exposed to some sort of Interference Field which created a cascade reaction that led to the destabilization of our nanites, a quantum resonance disruption if you will."
"That’s impossible," Dalra, the Varro pilot, cut in, her tone sharp and dismissive. "Our nanites have survived solar flares, radiation storms, and more. They’re engineered to adapt!"
"Not to this," Wimdalli snapped back. "This attack was precise. Still, they adapted as quickly as they could and continue to do so. The little buggers are amazing."
Anya Petrov, the Russian huntress, folded her arms and sneered. "If our precious machines are breaking, perhaps it’s because they’ve grown weak. You’re all talking science, but this feels like sabotage. Noiva aimed to destroy us, and she nearly succeeded."
"We don’t even know if it was her," countered Gabrielle Wolfe, the saboteur. Her cold German accent added weight to her words. "There’s no proof the attack originated from any of the Noiva sisters. It’s speculation at best."
"Speculation based on logic," Anya shot back. "I don’t trust them. And neither should any of you. They’re too perfect, too identical, and the fact that none of the 26 sisters have ever been seen together, not once, is suspicious. Sensors show them in separate locations, but I’m convinced they’re one and the same."
"That’s a conspiracy theory," Dalra muttered. "We don’t have time to entertain your paranoia."
"And now what? We implode?" Jinx, the fiery bounty hunter, growled, her Jem’Hadar-like features twisting in frustration. "We’re fighters. Stop bickering and fix this!"
"We can’t simply punch our way through quantum instability," countered Gabrielle. "This requires strategy."
The cacophony grew as more voices joined in, their overlapping arguments reflecting the turmoil within.
"Enough!" The sharp, commanding voice of Gemma cut through the noise like a blade. Her icy glare silenced the crowd. "We’re wasting time."
The personalities froze, momentarily unified by her authority. Then, a new presence emerged from the shadows, a figure none of them recognized. She had an ethereal glow, her translucent form shimmering with a soft, golden light. Her hair floated around her as though she were underwater, and her voice was calm yet unsettlingly resonant.
"Who are you?" Gemma demanded, her body tensing.
"I am Lyric," the figure said, her voice a harmonious melody that seemed to echo within each mind. "I am the dreamer, the poet. You’ve never needed me until now."
"A poet?" Anya scoffed. "What use are you to us?"
"You’re wrong to dismiss me," Lyric replied, her tone unwavering. "This is not just a scientific problem or a battle to be won. The nanites are fragments of you, just as we are. They’re struggling because you are struggling. To heal them, we must heal the fracture within."
The others exchanged skeptical glances, but Gemma’s gaze remained locked on the newcomer. "What do you propose?"
Lyric stepped closer to Gemma, her golden light intensifying. "Unite the voices. If we keep fighting amongst ourselves, the nanites will collapse. They need harmony, a shared purpose beyond ensuring our physical survival if they are to recalibrate."
"That’s… poetic nonsense," Dalra muttered.
"Is it?" Gwenvel, the El’Aurian counselor, interjected. "She’s right. Our discord mirrors the nanites’ instability. We’re the system’s mind, and they’re its body."
"Then let’s do it," said Lireen, the fearless Edo explorer. "We don’t have time to argue anymore."
Gemma closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. The environment shifted around her, the metallic chamber dissolving into a serene meadow, one of Lyric’s creations. The personalities hesitated, then began to align their energies. One by one, they stepped forward, their forms glowing as they merged into Gemma. Lyric’s golden light enveloped them, and for a brief moment, there was silence, true, unbroken silence.
Gemma opened her eyes. "The nanites… they’re stabilizing," she said, her voice steady but tinged with awe.
"This isn’t over," warned Wimdalli. "We’ll need to reinforce their programming. Noiva’s attack could happen again."
"And we’ll be ready," Gemma replied, her gaze hardening. "Together."
The personalities nodded as one before fading back into the shadows, leaving Gemma alone in the meadow. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, the fractured pieces of her mind seemed to hum in unison. The crisis wasn’t fully resolved, but it was a step toward something she had rarely felt: unity.
Like a dream coming to an end, the meadow began to phase out of focus, replaced by an emptiness that carried with it a sense of peace the likes of which Gemma had never experienced before.
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Adriana Lopez's Quarters
Stardate: 44353.1421
Gemma's eyes sprang open. Although it felt as if hours had passed, it had been mere minutes since she had been placed on the Counselor's couch.
"She's awake," Zub pointed out, cautiously pointing a clawed finger in Gemma's direction.
"Are you alright?" Adriana asked in a rushed voice. The Hispanic woman, still kneeling by her patient's side, leaned in as close as she could to the woman lying on her couch.
"I am fine Counselor, thank you," Gemma replied, quickly sitting up and swinging her legs around to be in a proper sitting position, ready to stand at a moment's notice. For a brief moment, the ILO repeated her most recent statement about being fine. There were doubts in her mind, questions as to the validity of the words, an uncertainty that she was unwilling to show outwardly. At the same time, she felt an odd sensation of calm and acceptance, a feeling that she was desperately trying to understand and quantify.
"What happened?" Ya'Han demanded in a stern voice. The Sec/Tac did not enjoy being kept in the dark about anything happening on the ANUBIS, especially when it was concerning a friend. "Why were you sneaking around the ship as a black-haired Nylaan?"
"Za'Ran?" Gemma said, an expression of surprise flashing over her features for less than a second. Why would she have been there? How could she have been there... unless... "I'm... not sure," she admitted before standing, the name 'Lyric' echoing in her mind.
"Woah there," Adriana said, her effort to stop Gemma proving futile and causing her to lose her balance and fall back onto the floor in a sitting position.
"You need to rest," Zub said, offering his body as an obstacle meant to have the ILO reconsider whatever she was planning.
"Why? Gemma bluntly asked. "I am fine."
"You were not 'fine' a few minutes ago when you begged us not to take you to Sickbay," the red-haired Nylaan explained as she was helping Adriana back to her feet.
"I... I assure you that I am fine... now," the addition of the last word seemed like an attempt to convince those in attendance, including herself, that this was indeed the case. "I need to return to the IGC, please, let me pass," she said to Zub, the word 'please' having an odd tone to it, hinting that she was ready to do what was required to do as she had indicated.
The Marine Commanding Officer and Chief of Security quickly exchanged a glance, wondering what the best course of action was. After a few seconds, Zub Enel nodded his head in respect and moved to one side, his concern for the woman hidden as best he could. "I am heading in that direction. I will walk with you."
The expression on Gemma's face was one of deeply felt doubt bordering on mistrust, but after a few seconds, a sense of calm washed over her. The voices in her mind were speaking as one, this was odd, strange, and something that she found oddly pleasant and disturbing in equal measures. She looked up into the Voth's golden eyes and offered a genuine, warm smile. "Very well. Let's go."
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
=-=
“A Glimpse Within”
Previous post: “"Together, As One" by Rachel
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Corridor near Adriana’s Quarters
Stardate: 44353.1425
Gemma’s deep red curls swayed from side to side as she strode toward the turbolift. Zub hurried to catch up, falling into step beside her. Her face was not the usual blank canvas that Gemma presented to the universe. There was a softness in her expression, a lack of the icy professionalism he had come to expect. Most males might have been pleased to see her apparent contentment, but Zub was not. He wasn’t convinced that whatever storm had swept through her had truly passed.
They halted before the turbolift. As it whirred toward them, Zub spoke, his deep voice gentle and respectful. "Are you sure you are up to working in the IGC? You’ve only recently been put through the automatic washing machine."
Gemma turned her head slightly, the corner of her lips twitching upward in a faint smile. “I assure you, Lieutenant, I am more than capable of managing my duties.” Her voice was calm, but there was a warmth to it that caught him off guard.
The turbolift doors slid open, and they stepped inside. Zub instinctively took up position by the wall, his towering frame slightly hunched to accommodate the space. He watched Gemma as she moved to the center, her posture graceful and poised.
Something shifted in her demeanor as the turbolift began to ascend. The vibrant curls of her hair darkened slightly, a subtle transformation that seemed to ripple through her entire presence. Her emerald-green eyes softened into a dreamy hazel, and her movements became fluid, mesmerizing.
“Seksa...” Zub murmured under his breath, recognizing the persona before she even spoke.
She turned toward him with a gentle, radiant smile, her voice like honey. “You’re very observant, Lieutenant Enel.” Her tone was warm and intimate, carrying none of the sharpness he was accustomed to.
Zub tensed slightly, uncertain how to respond. He’d interacted with a few of Gemma’s other personas, but this one was… different. There was a magnetism about her that felt both calming and unnerving.
Seksa took a step closer, her fingers brushing lightly against his arm before she rested her palm on his chest. The heat from her touch was intoxicating. “You’re worried about me,” she said softly, her gaze searching his.
“It’s my job to look out for the crew,” Zub replied, his voice steady but edged with hesitation.
Her smile deepened, and her hand rose slowly to his cheek, her touch feather-light. “And who looks out for you, hmm?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Zub felt his jaw tighten, his golden eyes locked on hers. The tender gesture stirred within him a mix of protectiveness and vulnerability he hadn’t expected. He started to speak, but the turbolift chimed, signaling their arrival on Deck A-4.
Seksa stepped back with a graceful motion, the spell broken but her presence lingering. “Thank you for your concern,” she said, her tone carrying a hint of playfulness as she turned around, her features returning to those of the ILO with whom he had boarded the turbolift with. “Shall we?” Gemma nonchalantly asked as she waited for the doors to slide open.
Zub nodded, his usual composure faltering for just a moment as the doors slid open. Together, they stepped into the corridor, the tension between them palpable but unspoken.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
and
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
“Such is the madness of ambition that you will feel you have come in last if anyone is ahead of you.”
- Seneca, Epistles 104.9
---
"Shifting Alignments"
(Previous Post: "A Glimpse Within")
---
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 13, Stellar Cartography
Stardate: 44353.1700
Stellar Cartography was a cathedral of light and motion, its projections of the celestial anomaly dominating the room with hues of shifting blues, greens, and faint violets. The patterns twisted and pulsed with a rhythm that was almost hypnotic, but Lieutenant Commander Maya was immune to such distractions. Her mind was entirely consumed by the mystery before her, her hands darting across the console as she adjusted parameters and scrutinized every minute fluctuation.
Her voice, as always, was a steady stream of thought vocalized. “If the observed wavelengths remain consistent across the hypothesized spectrum, then it may suggest a form of encoded transmission, though whether this is a naturally occurring phenomenon or an artifact of some artificial construct remains an open question. Further analysis of...”
The doors hissed open behind her, but Maya remained focused. She barely registered the sound, let alone the presence of someone entering.
“Hard at work, I see,” came Gemma’s voice, a mixture of sarcasm and amusement.
Maya paused, her fingers hovering over the console for a fraction of a second before she resumed typing. “Lieutenant Gemma,” she acknowledged without turning. “Given your proclivity for unpredictability, I must admit to some curiosity as to the purpose of your visit. If it is not directly relevant to the anomaly, I would kindly request that you refrain from disrupting my analysis.”
Gemma stepped further into the room, her boots clicking lightly against the polished floor. “Disrupting? Me? Never.” She sauntered to a nearby console, her gaze flicking to the swirling projection of the anomaly. “I just thought I would check in on you. Word around the ship is you have been living in here, whispering sweet nothings to a giant ball of cosmic weirdness.”
Maya straightened and turned to face the unexpected guest, her expression as composed as ever. “If by ‘sweet nothings’ you are referring to my analysis of the erratic energy patterns of the anomaly and their potential resemblance to neural activity, then yes, your assessment is, in a sense, accurate. However, I fail to see how such colloquial phrasing adds to the substance of the discussion.”
Gemma smirked, leaning casually against the console. “Oh, I missed this. The way you can make even the weirdest things sound boring. So, what is the big mystery? Or are you just enjoying the view?”
Maya’s brow furrowed, and she glanced briefly at the hologram. “As you are already well aware, The anomaly exhibits energy fluctuations that suggest a complexity far beyond standard subspace phenomena. Specifically, there are emissions that bear a faint resemblance to neural activity, albeit fragmented and lacking a discernible point of origin. If these patterns represent residual imprints of sentient thought, the implications are profound. However, conclusive evidence remains elusive, necessitating further study.”
Gemma’s grin widened. “Translation: you think this thing might have a brain, but you are not sure yet.”
Maya hesitated, clearly weighing how to respond. “That is a gross oversimplification, but it captures the essence of the hypothesis. The anomaly may not possess a brain in the conventional sense, but it is possible that it serves as a medium or repository for fragmented neural imprints. Determining the validity of this theory requires comparative analysis against known neurological patterns.”
Gemma rolled her eyes, shaking her head with mock exasperation. “You know, you could just say, ‘I do not know yet.’ It would save you a lot of time.”
“I find that precision is often preferable to brevity,” Maya replied. “However, if you are volunteering to assist with this investigation, I am open to utilizing your unique skill set. Your penchant for thinking unconventionally could prove beneficial in identifying variables that I may have overlooked.”
Gemma raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by the suggestion. “Are you actually saying I might be useful? I am flattered. But let us be real... your anomaly is probably just a fancy light show. If it starts talking, though, you know where to find me.”
"What about the hallucinations reported by Counselor Lopez and the matching, granted fragmented, brainwave patterns from the anomaly?" Maya asked, shocked by the sudden coldness from Gemma.
"Conjectures. Hypothesis. Guesses. I have my own to deal with right now." Gemma pushed off the console and started toward the door but paused just before exiting, glancing back at Maya with a faint smirk. “And Maya? Do not forget to blink. You have that look, like you are one all-nighter away from seeing little green men.”
The doors closed behind her, leaving Maya alone once more. She exhaled softly, her gaze returning to the swirling projection of the anomaly.
“Fascinating,” she murmured, her fingers resuming their rapid movements across the console. “The Lieutenant’s irreverence notwithstanding, she may have a point. Expanding the parameters of analysis to account for potential external influences could yield unexpected insights. Science is, after all, as much about serendipity as it is about rigour.”
The hologram shifted subtly as new parameters were entered, and once again, Maya was wholly absorbed in the enigma before her.
---
Jessica Solarik
Lieutenant Commander Maya
Chief Science Officer
USS ANUBIS
"To see the world in a grain of sand,
and a heaven in a wild flower.
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
and eternity in an hour."
- William Blake (British, 1757-1827)
"Echoes of Amanda"
Previous post: "Shifting Alignments” by Jessica
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Black Hole Lounge
Stardate: 44354.0700
Adriana entered the Black Hole Lounge, her steps purposeful but her thoughts heavy. The steady hum of the ship’s engines underscored their high-warp journey toward the celestial anomaly... an anomaly that might finally provide answers about Amanda, the twin sister she had lost so long ago.
Taking a seat near one of the upper-level viewports, Adriana ordered her usual breakfast and let her eyes wander to the stars streaking past. Hope, buried for decades, was rising to the surface, but with it came a familiar fear. What if the anomaly led to nothing? What if this was just another futile chase through the void?
Her thoughts were interrupted by a voice that sent a bittersweet ache through her chest.
“You’re awfully quiet for someone so close to finding me.”
Adriana sighed, a mix of exasperation and longing. She didn’t need to look up to know who had spoken. Instead, she glanced toward the bustling lower level, but the edges of her vision blurred. Closing her eyes, she willed the moment to pass.
When she reopened them, Amanda was there, perched on the table's edge as if she had every right to be.
“You’re not real,” Adriana said, her voice steady but her hands trembling beneath the table.
Amanda leaned back, her expression a mix of amusement and gentle reproach. “That’s what you keep telling yourself. And yet, here I am.”
Adriana’s gaze darted across the room. No one else seemed to notice Amanda’s presence, her figure both vivid and ghostlike. Taking a deep breath, Adriana whispered, “This isn't helpful. I have to keep my expectations in check. If I let hope consume me, I won’t survive the heartbreak when this anomaly turns out to be nothing."
“I’ve missed you too, sis,” Amanda replied, her smile tender. Her tone softened. “I get it. The uncertainty, the endless questions. You just have to look at Maya to see how puzzling this anomaly really is. But let me ask you something: Do you want the anomaly to be a bust? Have you grown so comfortable with searching for me that you’re afraid of what it might mean to finally find me?”
Adriana didn’t answer. The truth gnawed at her. Decades had passed since they’d last been together. If she found Amanda now, would she even recognize the sister she’d lost?
The quiet tension was broken by the measured click of heels on the lounge’s polished staircase. Adriana looked up to see Doctor Satella Bruxa approaching, her curious expression tinged with concern.
“Counselor,” Satella greeted, her sharp gaze scanning the table. Then she paused, her brow furrowing. “Who were you just talking to?”
Adriana’s heart sank. She swallowed hard, her mind racing. “No one,” she said, too quickly.
Satella tilted her head, studying Adriana. “Strange. I could’ve sworn I saw someone sitting on the table next to you when I walked in.”
Adriana forced a tight smile, her voice calm despite the racing of her pulse. “Must’ve been a trick of the light.”
Satella hesitated, her lips pressed into a thin line, but she didn’t push the matter further. “Mind if I join you?”
“Not at all,” Adriana replied, gesturing to the seat across from her. Amanda was gone now, her presence as fleeting as it was haunting. Yet, Satella’s comment lingered, igniting a spark of doubt.
What if Amanda wasn’t just in her head?
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
=-=
"Ghosts and Shadows"
Previous post: "Echoes of Amanda" by Marissa
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge -> Captain's Ready Room
Stardate: 44354.0800
Shar’El stood before the door to Captain Morningstar’s Ready Room, hesitating for a brief moment. She clutched the PADD containing her findings, her thoughts racing. Odd reports of unexplained phenomena from the crew had been trickling in, ranging from shadowy figures moving just out of sight to disembodied whispers heard in empty corridors. Some described a cold, unsettling presence, while others claimed to catch glimpses of familiar faces in reflections, only to turn and find no one there. Though none of the ship’s sensors supported these claims, Shar’El knew they couldn’t be dismissed lightly. She drew in a steadying breath and pressed the chime.
=/\= Enter, =/\= Captain Morningstar’s calm disembodied voice called out.
Stepping inside, Shar’El offered a crisp nod. The Native American gestured for her to sit, but she remained standing, her tone formal and direct. “Captain, I’ve compiled an unusual set of reports from various crew members.” She handed him the PADD.
Morningstar took it, skimming the highlighted entries. “‘Ghosts’?” he read aloud, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.
“That’s the common term used,” she clarified. “Crew members from different sections claim to have seen fleeting figures, humanoid forms that vanish upon closer inspection. Some reports came close to triggering an intruder alert, but there’s no corresponding data from internal sensors.”
“And these sightings?” Morningstar leaned back, his brow furrowed.
“Seem to have no pattern,” she replied. “Different decks, different times. The individuals reporting these incidents have no prior history of hallucinations or stress-related disorders.”
“Could this be a mass psychological phenomenon?”
“Possibly, but I’d prefer to explore other avenues before jumping to conclusions. Given the celestial anomaly we’re heading towards, there’s a chance this is connected to external factors. Lieutenant Maya is still thoroughly investigating the anomaly, searching for any energy fluctuations or temporal distortions that could explain these sightings. Additionally, Gemma has reported nothing unusual from the IGC," the former ILO reported with a troubled tone before taking a measured pause. It was evident to the CO that his ExO had already double checked the department's sensor logs. If there had been an actual intruder, she would have been the first to detect them.”
Morningstar’s gaze locked onto hers, his expression thoughtful. “Proceed cautiously, Commander. If there’s any genuine threat, we need to identify it without creating unnecessary panic.”
“Understood, Captain,” Shar’El replied.
"Between you and I... could Adriana Lopez be involved in this in some way?" Erik inquired with a sigh. Afterall, the Counselor had been relieved of duty for fear that she might pose some sort of threat to the crew because of her suspected link with the anomaly.
Shar'El's expression tightened, indicating that the thought had crossed her mind. "There is no evidence to support that theory at this time. That said, I did cross-reference the sightings with Adriana's location at those moments. She was either in her quarters or in the Black Hole Lounge. Her presence, or even general proximity does not appear to have had an impact on the sightings. That said, Adriana’s deep connection to her sister, and the possible connection to the anomaly, makes her a person of interest. It’s possible that she is somehow involved in these apparitions without her knowing it. There is just no proof or denying this possibility at the moment."
He nodded, handing back the PADD. “Keep me updated. And Shar’El... if these ‘ghosts’ turn out to be more than figments of overactive imaginations, I’ll need your expertise to uncover the truth,” Erik added, unofficially giving the Ullian permission to scan the crew's memories if needed to see if more data could be uncovered. Shar’El hesitated for a brief moment, aware of the ethical gray area she was about to navigate. While her telepathic abilities could reveal valuable insights, delving into someone’s memories without consent carried significant moral implications. She resolved to tread carefully, only probing surface thoughts and limiting her scans to those who had voluntarily come forward with their reports.
“I will be discreet,” she assured him, before taking her leave, the mystery weighing heavily on her mind.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
=-=
"Shadows of the Past"
Previous post: " Ghosts and Shadows " by Tiffany
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 34354.0825
Lieutenant Jayson Stark sat at his station on the bridge, his fingers moving over the controls with practiced ease. His eyes shifted between the streaking stars on the main view screen and the data appearing on his console. The OPS officer had become adept at multitasking, balancing the intricacies of his duties while keeping his thoughts in check. Or at least that is what he wanted to believe.
His gaze drifted, almost involuntarily, to the opposite side of the bridge where Lieutenant Ya'Han sat at the tactical station. Her posture was perfect, her focus absolute. The faintest hint of a smile touched Jayson's lips as he watched her work. She was a force of nature, both in beauty and strength.
Things had been going well between them recently, a rarity given their turbulent history. For the first time in what felt like forever, they had found a semblance of peace, a fragile but welcome balance. He allowed himself to savor the moment, knowing how fleeting such calm could be aboard a ship like the ANUBIS.
Things always seemed to happen, driving a wedge or obstacle between them. As if taking its queue from Jayson's thoughts, the universe decided to shatter the calm that had settled over the man.
A flicker of movement caught Jayson's eye. At first, he thought it was a trick of the light, a distortion in the corner of his vision. But as he turned his head, the blood drained from his face. There, standing near the edge of the bridge, was a figure he knew all too well. Leena.
His heart clenched painfully in his chest. She looked exactly as he remembered, her hair cascading over her shoulders, her eyes filled with warmth and a hint of a belly. Memories of their lives together and their plan to have a family came like a tidal wave, but she was gone. Leena had been dead for many years, taken from him in a tragedy that still haunted his nights. And yet, here she was.
Before he could speak or react, the apparition vanished. As if she had never been there.
Jayson’s hands froze over the console, his breath coming in short, uneven gasps. “No,” he whispered to himself, tears threatening to flow freely as an icy chill ran down his spine. “It’s not real. It can’t be real.”
He tried to shake it off, returning his focus to his work. But his hands trembled, his mind racing. The bridge’s ambient noise faded into a dull roar in his ears, and he became acutely aware of his own heartbeat pounding in his chest.
“Jayson?” Ya'Han’s voice cut through the haze. He hadn’t realized she was watching him, her bright crimson-tinted streaks in her black hair a reflection of her concern. He tried to muster a reassuring smile, but it faltered.
“I’m fine,” he lied, his voice strained. “Just… distracted.”
Ya'Han didn’t look convinced, in fact, she almost appeared angry now. Rising from her station, she moved toward him, her eyes narrowing as she studied his face. “You don’t look fine, so don't lie to me. What is going on?”
Before he could respond, his knees buckled and he slipped off his chair. Jayson collapsed to the floor, the weight of emotions he had been holding back crashing down on him all at once. Tears streamed down his face as he struggled to catch his breath. Ya'Han bridged the distance between them in a single heartbeat, her hands landing on his shoulders as she knelt by his side, her hair as red as flowing lava.
"Jayson, talk to me," Ya'Han said, her voice softened by genuine worry despite the fiery crimson in her hair betraying her frustration. "I can't help if you don't tell me what's going on. Please Jayson, talk to me."
“I saw her,” he choked out between sobs. “I saw Leena.”
Ya'Han’s eyes widened, and she glanced around the bridge. The other officers exchanged puzzled looks but could not confirm the man's claim as to what he had seen.
A thousand thoughts flew through the Nylaan's mind, questioning the reason and timing for this emotional vision of his. Was it something that she had said or done, was it his attempt to hold onto something else... onto someone else as she had done with his clone? In the end, Ya'Han decided to take an emotional step back. This could have been caused by countless other things, including the celestial anomaly they were rushing towards. She needed to know more and understand what was happening before allowing her feelings to rule her actions once more.
“Leena?” Ya'Han repeated gently, her grip on his shoulders softening. “Jayson, are you sure?”
He nodded, wiping at his face with the back of his hand. “She was there,” he said, pointing to the spot where the apparition had appeared. “I know it doesn’t make sense, but I saw her. I swear.” Jayson’s shoulders slumped as he met Ya'Han’s gaze, the weight of years of loss and grief threatening to crush him. "If it’s not real, why does it feel like I’m losing her all over again?" he whispered, his voice barely audible.
Ya'Han hesitated, unsure of what to say. The bridge’s tension was palpable, and the crew’s unease only grew when Commander Shar’El contacted Captain Morningstar, requesting his presence on the bridge.
Moments later, the Captain arrived, his commanding presence calming the room somewhat. “Report,” he said, his tone steady but curious.
Jayson forced himself to stand, aided by Ya'Han, still shaken, and pointed to the same spot where he had seen the apparition. “Sir, I saw something. Someone. Leena. My wife… she’s dead, but she was there.”
Morningstar raised an eyebrow but nodded. “I understand how that must feel, Lieutenant, but...”
Before he could finish, the air near the indicated location shimmered again. The apparition lingered for just a heartbeat longer this time, and when it faded, the Captain’s sharp intake of breath confirmed Jayson wasn’t losing his mind.
"I saw it too," Morningstar said, his tone calm but carrying a weight that silenced the bridge.
Shar’El stepped forward, her eyes narrowing as she picked up a nearby tricorder and scanned the area, quickly reviewing the gathered data. “Still no readings, Captain. Whatever this is, it’s not registering on any of our instruments.”
Morningstar’s gaze turned to Jayson, then to the rest of the bridge crew. “Has anyone else seen that or anything like it?”
The silence on the bridge was deafening as A'Janni, Shar'El, Ya'Han and the other junior officers were forced to reply in the negative.
A heavy silence settled over the bridge as the Shar'El looked at the Captain who simply nodded his head, understanding what she wanted to do. So as per his own earlier orders, she focused on ignoring everything else around her. The scan of his most recent memories was easily done and what the Ullian found made her eyes go wide. She quickly shifted to Jayson to confirm her findings and then to Ya'Han, this time finding nothing but her fears for the man she loved.
"Captain... you and Jayson did see something," Shar'El confirmed. "Whatever it was though was not seen by anyone else.
"Possible explanation?" Morningstar demanded.
The ExO rushed back to her station and quickly checked her hypothesis. "Captain," Shar'El said, her voice steady but tinged with unease. "It appears that the greater majority of the reports of these… apparitions… have come from Terrans. The few outliers might be due to similarities in cerebral composition, something that I will need to confirm with our medical staff, but the pattern is undeniable."
A hush fell over the bridge, the implications hanging heavily in the air.
Jayson’s mind raced as he tried to process what had just happened. Whatever this was, it wasn’t just in his head. And now, it wasn’t just his burden to bear.
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
and
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
=-=
"Examination, Evaluation"
Previous post: "Shadows of the Past" by Jayson and Hanali
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.0845
Jayson Stark reluctantly entered Sickbay, his body tense, his expression a mix of annoyance and unease. Each step felt heavier, as if the shadows of Leena and their unborn child lingered just behind him, unshakable despite the years and countless counseling sessions. After endless counselling sessions he had finally managed to accept the events that took them from him,allowing him to forge a new life. That had been part of the issues he and Ya'Han constantly had to deal with, but what happened on the bridge had pushed this well over the proverbial edge.
The sight of the main examination table instantly added to his discomfort. He hated being here, and seeing Doctors Sofia Anderson and Satella Bruxa preparing medical instruments did little to improve his mood.
"Relax, Lieutenant," Sofia said with a calming smile, her hands deftly adjusting a scanner. "This is just a precaution. We’re trying to figure out why these... apparitions seem to target you and the rest of the Terrans on board the ANUBIS."
Jayson crossed his arms. "Must be nice not having ghosts show up to remind you of everything you’ve lost." His tone was rough, his words ill chosen as the two of them shared a common hardship when Paris had been attacked and millions perished. The Chief of Operations could not bring himself to apologise, so he simply continued, softening his tone by several measures. "Do you truly believe that poking and prodding at my brain chemistry is going to help?"
Before either doctor could respond, Counselor Brooke Noiva stepped in, her demeanor as serene and relaxed as could be, a sharp contrast to that of her sister Ava.
"Jayson," Brooke began softly, her voice gentle yet firm, "we understand how frustrating this must be for you. But the vision you experienced, which are clearly not just figments of imagination, need to be understood. There’s a pattern here, and identifying the root cause might help protect you and others on this ship."
He exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair. "Fine, but don’t expect me to like it."
Satella chuckled lightly as she approached with a handheld neuro-scanner. "No one likes Sickbay. Trust me, we get that alot. But we’re not here to torture you, Jayson. You’ve faced tougher things than a neuro-scan, this will be over before you know it." The silver-haired Mikulak physician said referring to the many times he had come into Sickbay following a sparring match with Ya'Han.
Sofia, figuring that focusing on the task at hand was best, gestured toward the biobed. "Lie down, please. This won’t take long."
Grumbling, Jayson complied, the biobed’s surface adjusting to cradle his form. As Dr. Andersson activated the bio-neural analyzer, Satella monitored his vital signs on the adjacent console.
"Your brain activity is fascinating," Bruxa remarked, her grey eyes narrowing as the readings appeared. "There’s a distinct residual energy signature here, something that was not there the last time your brainwaves were scanned and analysed."
Sofia nodded, her own gaze fixed on the readings. "It’s almost like your neural pathways are tuned to a different frequency. That could explain why you’re perceiving these 'ghosts' when no one else does."
Brooke folded her arms thoughtfully. "Could it be linked to his emotional state? Stress, unresolved trauma, something that’s amplifying his sensitivity? It could explain why Terrans are more prone to these ghostly visions, their brain chemistry more easily altered by whatever is causing this."
Jayson scoffed. "My emotional state is fine, Counselor. I’m not some fragile psyche waiting to crack." For a split second the OPS Officer wished that Adriana had been here instead of Brooke, at least Lopez knew him and understood the full extent of the hell he had endured over the years.
Brooke smiled gently. "No one’s saying that, Jayson. But the mind is complex, and sometimes it reacts in ways we don’t fully understand. I have read your file and know about Leena, how she was with child at the time of her passing, your troubled relationship with Ya'Han and the heartbreak you went through when she fell in love with your clone and deserted the ANUBIS. Granted, it was all a ploy devised by the Captain, but since no one could be informed of this, her betrayal hit everyone hard, especially you."
Sofia glared at the Counselor. "Where did you learn to counsel people? On Qo'noS?"
"I have visited the Klingon homeworld during my apprenticeship as a counselor," Noiva pointed out, her tone as calm and steady as could be. "I was merely trying to invoke a strong emotional response from Jayson to see if you, Doctors, would be able to detect some sort of anomaly in his brainwaves, something that might help us identify the source and how to protect the members of the crew most at risk.
Jayson's fists clenched but he said nothing. This was not the first time a Counselor was playing pinball with his memories and emotions, and he understood, reluctantly, that it was all part of the process of getting the answers they needed.
"We’ll need to run a deeper analysis, possibly a full neural resonance scan. If there’s an external influence triggering these visions, we’ll find it." Satella turned to Jayson, her tone reassuring. "You’re not alone in this. We’re going to get to the bottom of it, but we need your cooperation."
Jayson sighed, his frustration slowly giving way to a flicker of trust. As the scanner hummed softly, Stark closed his eyes. For now, he would surrender to their care, hoping they could uncover something he hadn’t yet been able to face alone.
As the doctors resumed their work, Brooke stayed by his side, her presence a quiet reminder that, no matter how unsettling this investigation might be, Jayson wasn’t facing it alone.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve <sttr242526@gmail.com>
Doctor Sofia Andersson
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS
and
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Doctor Setalle Bruxa
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
-=-=-
"Beyond the Glass"
Previous post: "Examination, Evaluation” by Tiffany & Rachel
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay, Observation Room
Stardate: 44354.0900
Standing in an observation room behind a one-way medical display into Sickbay, a marvel of modern engineering, Ya'Han struggled to contain the whirlwind of emotions surging within her. Her reflection staring back at her revealed the tension etched in her features, a mask of calm concealing the storm beneath. Her hands clenched into fists at her sides, nails biting into her palms, as she willed herself to focus on the task at hand. Despite her years in Starfleet and training as a Security Officer, nothing could prepare her for moments like this, where duty collided with memories they both fought to keep buried.
The room beyond was abuzz with activity as Doctor Bruxa and Doctor Andersson moved around Jayson as if in a dance. The only immobile part was Counselor Brooke Noiva, the sister to Doctor Ava Noiva, who watched over Jayson in a way that actually made the Nylaan uneasy. Ya’Han’s black hair framed her face, a symbol of the state of mind she was in, yet the burning in her eyes betrayed her inner conflict. She exhaled sharply, forcing herself to banish the ghosts of the past, knowing that to falter now would weaken the resolve they had worked so hard to forge.
Her gaze remained fixed, unflinching, even as her thoughts churned with uncertainty. She didn't need to turn around to know someone was approaching, she could sense the imposing presence, steady yet cautious, as though understanding the fragility of this moment. The quiet arrival of Zub Enel left an opening for words unspoken but ready to be said.
The observation room reeked of sanitizer. A row of chairs along a back wall gleamed like they were clean enough to perform emergency surgery on. The ‘window’ that faithfully showed Sickbay faintly reflected his tall scaly image towering over a petite female who had kicked, punched, and otherwise bludgeoned him with all manner of weapons. He’d always come away injured from one of their sparring sessions but now was one of the very rare times Ya’Han looked in pain. He said softly, his deep voice holding a note of assurance, “You know he is being looked after by the best possible…”
Ya’Han bent her elbow so her hand made a flat, slicing moment upward, cutting him off.
His three-fingered hands dropped into a fig leaf in front of his hips. “You know I am happy to help in any way I can.”
He watched the doctors and a less familiar female who stood near Jayson gazing down at him. “That is one of the Noiva sisters, is it not? I would think she is a bit new to elicit any meaningful trust or openness from Jayson.”
"I'm guessing that three Doctors would have been overkill, and with Adriana no longer on active duty, guessing Brooke Noiva was the only one available," the Sec/Tac theorized, her tone of voice clearly indicating shared sentiments with the Marine CO. "Still... I should be the one in there."
"No," a voice said, surprising both Ya'Han and Zub. "You in there would not be a good idea," Gemma said flatly, the ILO having entered the room without either the Sec/Tac or Marine CO noticing her arrival. "One question... was Doctor Noiva, Ava, there at all?"
"Brooke was the only one to walk in after Jayson was brought in," Ya'Han said, taking a moment to look at the ILO and add. "And to answer your next question, no we did not see Ava and Brooke together. Your paranoia is getting tiresome."
"Shame," Gemma said, nodding to the action beyond the glass. "Your presence near him would only make things worse," the much softer and caring voice of the El-Aurian counselor added, the transition from Gemma to her having been near instantaneous.
Ya'Han sighed and shook her head, not being in the mood to deal with any of the ILO's other personalities. On his side though, Zub found himself taken aback by the sudden and unexpected transformation. "Miss Gwenvel, I believe," he said hesitantly.
"Yes," the El-Aurian confirmed with a beaming smile as she looked up at the towering Voth. "By the way, Seksa says hi," she added in a whispered voice, gently nudging his arm before turning her attention back to Ya'Han. "Get Brook out of Sickbay, I will go in and take her place at Jayson's side. I know him, and you, much better than she does."
Zub Enel felt Gwenvel’s nudge linger on his forearm after she’d taken her hand away. He smiled involuntarily at the mention of Seksa’s greeting. He realized then that the particularly alluring personality of Gemma had gotten past his usual emotional defensiveness around the multifaceted ILO.
He realized he had been standing there, dithering, blushing, and fluffing instead of focusing on the task at hand. Seksa's alluring nature could wait. He frowned at the trio of caregivers hovering around Jayson and addressed Ya’Han and Gwenvel with purpose.
“Brooke Noiva’s presence might have been requested by either Drs Andersson or Bruxa. Dismissing her might trigger resistance. If Ya’Han charges in there asking her to leave, that might make her think jealousy is involved. You, Gwenvel, could offer that you know Jayson better than she and might have insights that can better help him. She might leave without feeling summarily dismissed. I can attempt to tail her, if you like.”
“Tail her?” Gwenvel repeated with a calm smile, her expression briefly mirroring Seksa’s enchanting features before settling back into the El-Aurian Counselor’s poised demeanor.
“No teasing,” the multifaceted officer added lightly, her tone touched with the seamless cooperation of her distinct personas. She then adopted a more serious air. “If you're offering to help, you are the best choice to get Brooke out of there. Ya’Han’s approach might immediately backfire, as you pointed out, drawing unwanted attention or suspicions of jealousy. Gemma, any version of her, would face questions about motives, which would only deepen Noiva's distrust. But you,” Gwenvel said, her voice filled with calm reasoning, “you could present an urgent request, one that the Counselor would not be able to professionally dismiss. You could claim concern over ghostly apparitions or a MACO dealing with psychological distress. For someone as dedicated as Brooke, that sort of appeal would be irresistible. She would leave without hesitation, eager to offer her assistance.”
“I have an idea in that regard,” the giant lizard man rumbled. He left the Observation Room taking long strides.
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.0900
As Zub Enel entered the doors to Sickbay, the three females and Jayson turned heads toward him.
“He’s fine,” Doctor Bruxa said, her tone preemptive.
“He is simply under observation. No need for concern,” offered Brooke Noiva. Her smile beamed reassurance.
Jayson sat up, brows pinched together. He said to Enel, “Please take me out of here. Somebody has to fly the ship.”
“A’Janni is crewing the helm for now,” Enel said. “You had best do what these doctors are telling you to do.”
"You know that's not what I meant. Someone needs to be at OPS and make sure that everything is working as it is meant to," Jayson said, sighing heavily as he flopped back onto the biobed and emitted a disconcertingly morbid sound close to a death rattle.
“Counselor Noiva,” Zub Enel said. “I wonder if you could spare a few minutes to help me assess the Terran marines under my command. They are all far too proud to admit anything as dodgy as seeing things. You may be able to pierce their facade and let me know if any need further - shall we say - study?”
Brooke gave Jayson and the Doctors a quick scan, both Satella and Sofia dismissing the woman with a wave of their hands.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
and
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
"Inner Debates"
Previous post: "Beyond the Glass"
Location: USS ANUBIS, Corridor -> Sickbay -> Corridor
Stardate: 44354.0920
Gemma strolled through the corridor heading straight to Sickbay, her steps measured and deliberate. Inside her mind, the conversation was anything but calm.
"You flirted with him," came the sharp accusation from Anya Petrov, her Russian accent biting.
"We don’t flirt, unless it is part of the mission profile."
Gemma’s lips tightened into a small smirk that no one passing by would notice.
"I wasn’t flirting," Seksa’s voice interjected, smooth and unapologetic. "It was harmless fun."
"Harmless?" Anya’s tone was icy. "Distraction is dangerous. Our objectives demand focus."
"Oh, please," Seksa shot back with a laugh. "It’s nice to not be on some sort of horizontal mission for once. Do you know how rare that is?"
"Rare or not, it’s irrelevant," Anya countered. "Our behavior should align with calculated efficiency. Fraternizing with Zub Enel serves no purpose."
"No purpose?" Seksa sounded incredulous. "You ever stop to think that building rapport might be the purpose? Zub’s a tactical genius. Having him on our side emotionally as well as professionally could make all the difference."
"You are delusional." Anya’s voice practically spat the words.
"And you’re blind," Lygill interjected, her tone sharp and dismissive. "Manipulation is a tool, just like any other. You just don’t like it when Seksa uses her version of it."
"Manipulation requires control," Shinral’s deep, gravelly voice added. "Seksa’s methods are too unpredictable."
"Oh, here we go," Seksa said, exasperated. "Let me guess, Shinral, you think brute force solves everything?"
"Enough," Dalra, the stoic pilot, cut in. "This argument is pointless. We have a task. Focus."
Gemma sighed inwardly, unwilling to take sides. This debate was one she’d grown used to over the years. The voices, each representing a facet of herself, were as much a team as they were a source of chaos. Somewhere between them, the truth likely lay, but now was not the time for arbitration.
As she neared Sickbay, she felt the shift. Her demeanor softened, her step became less mechanical, and her expression warmed. By the time the doors slid open, she was no longer Gemma but Gwenvel, the empathic El’Aurian Counselor.
Inside, the sterile environment hummed quietly. The main examination biobed was occupied by Jayson Stark, his face a blend of fatigue and irritation. He saw Gwenvel approaching and immediately scowled.
"You’ve got to be kidding me," Jayson said, sitting up slightly. "Out of all the Counselors on this ship, they send you?"
Gwenvel clasped her hands in front of her, unphased by his reaction. "And why would that be a problem?"
"Because you’re the last Counselor I’d want to talk to," he snapped.
Gwenvel’s expression didn’t waver. "Exactly. Which is why I’m here." She paused, letting the weight of her words settle before adding, "I need your help, for Adriana’s sake."
Jayson blinked, his hostility faltering for a moment as confusion took its place. Before he could respond, Gwenvel leaned in closer and explained in a whispered voice the situation.
A few minutes later, the doors to Sickbay hissed closed behind her once again as she returned to the corridor, Gemma’s internal dialogue resuming almost immediately.
"You’re slipping," Anya chastised. "Adriana’s sake? Since when do we prioritize others over ourselves?"
"Since it became necessary," Lantra, the Tarellian deal-maker countered, her tone smooth and confident. "Sometimes, thinking of others isn’t a weakness. It can be a strength."
"LIES!" Anya forcefully argued.
"Don’t blame me for this," Lygill said, her legendary skill at fabricating truths evident in her tone. "But even I can see the merit in a well-placed gesture of goodwill."
"Strength? Or vulnerability?" Anya’s skepticism was palpable as she returned to the previous statement. "Caring for others clouds judgment."
"It also reminds us why we fight," Seksa said. "What’s the point of all this if we’re just cold, efficient machines?"
"Machines get results," Shinral grunted.
"And they break," Yshuni Talz, the Kotakian Listener, chimed in. "People don’t thrive in isolation. Even we need connections, whether we like it or not."
Gemma’s pace slowed as she approached a turbolift, her reflection on the control interface on the wall offering no answers. She sighed aloud, a rare acknowledgment of the chaos within.
"One thing at a time," she muttered to herself, her voice steady. For now, she had a mission, and perhaps a chance to find clarity in the midst of the storm.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
##########
"Mission Briefing - Take 2"
Previous post: "Inner Debate" by Rachel
##########
"Reality is created by the mind."
-- Plato
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 1, Captain's Ready Room
Stardate: 44354.1030
Jayson Stark shifted uncomfortably in the chair opposite Captain Morningstar, an air of uneasiness surrounding the Chief of Operations. Morningstar leaned back, studying the Lieutenant with a calm yet probing gaze.
"Captain, I… I need to apologize for my earlier behaviour on the bridge," Jayson began, his voice steady but subdued. "My reaction was… excessive, and I let my emotions get the better of me."
Morningstar raised an eyebrow but said nothing, allowing the younger officer to continue.
"Doctor Bruxa and Doctor Andersson shared with me the results of their tests," Jayson continued. "They explained that there’s a hormonal imbalance linked to these… visions. Whatever is causing them isn’t just playing tricks on our minds; it’s tampering with our bodies. They believe this is why humans are being affected more strongly than others."
The Captain nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I’ve read their preliminary report. It’s concerning, but it also gives us a clue as to how this anomaly might be interacting with the crew."
"Exactly, sir," Jayson said, leaning forward. "Which brings me to another point... Counselor Lopez. She’s not the only one affected now, and I believe restricting her from duty is a mistake. If humans aboard the ANUBIS are going to be exposed to these visions and the emotional turmoil that comes with them, we need her expertise. She’s the most qualified person to help us navigate this. Simply put, she knows the crew better than any of the other Counselors on board."
Morningstar’s expression remained neutral, but there was a hint of approval in his gaze. "You make a valid argument, Lieutenant. I’ll consider it."
--==(/\)==--
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 1, Observation lounge
Stardate: 44354.1100
The senior staff had gathered once again, the room’s subdued lighting lending a sense of gravity to the discussion. Captain Morningstar stood at the head of the table, his presence commanding yet approachable.
"Before we proceed, I want to address the matter of Counselor Lopez," Morningstar began. "Based on the latest medical findings from Doctor Bruxa and Doctor Andersson, as well as Lieutenant Stark’s insights, I’ve decided to reinstate her to active duty. Counsellor, your expertise will be invaluable as we move forward."
Satella immediately jumped in. "We were able to gather quite a bit of data on the effect of these hallucinations following Jayson's vivid vision. Although they can be quite unsettling, the physical impact does appear to be limited."
"A hormonal imbalance could countered through the use of special targetted hormonal inhibitors, thus saving others from experiencing the full impact of similar visions," Sofia Andersson added.
Adriana, seated near the middle of the table, gave a small nod of acknowledgment. "Thank you, Doctors, Captain. I greatly appreciate everything you are all doing for me and Amanda."
Shar'El’s piercing gaze swept across the room, a hint of discontent tempered by understanding. "Let this serve as a reminder to everyone: report any visions or hallucinations you experience. They may hold vital information about their cause or origin, and we can’t afford to overlook anything."
Morningstar nodded. "At our current speed, we are roughly 6 hours away from the ALPHA-KRAILIAN SECTOR. Every moment counts. Lieutenant Commander Maya, any updates on the anomaly?"
Maya, with her PADD in hand, hesitated briefly before speaking. "The anomaly continues to defy known scientific principles. However, during a recent… vvisit from Lieutenant Gemma, I gained additional insight."
The ILO, seated across the table, tilted her head. "Visit? I don’t recall ggoing to see you in Stellar Cartography or running into you following the Captain's call for this meeting."
Maya’s eyes widened slightly, but she quickly composed herself. "It seems I may have experienced a hallucination as well. A vivid one, at that. If this anomaly can cause us to experience such detailed imagery, we may be dealing with something far more intricate than we initially believed."
Sonja’s fiery tone broke the momentary silence. "So, what you’re saying is that the anomaly’s got a flair for drama? Great. What’s next, auditions for the lead role in our nightmares?"
"The anomaly’s selective impact on humans could suggest a deeper connection," Sofia Anderson interjected. "We’ll need to monitor everyone closely, especially those who’ve already been affected. The fact that Maya, a Shillian, also experienced such a phenomenon may help us better identify how these hallucinations are triggered.
"Of course," the CSciO nodded, a smile dancing on her lips. "By comparing the standard humanoid brain layout and chemistry to that of a Shillian, we might be able to more accurately identify how these visions are triggers and how they lead to a hormonal imbalance."
Ya’Han, seated next to Jayson, added, "It might be prudent, for the time being, to assign all non-human members of the crew who have not been impacted by these visions to primary or at least immediate backup roles for critical systems."
"I’ll have my MACO teams positioned at key systems. They’re trained to handle unexpected disruptions, and their presence should keep things stable," Zub Enel offered. "The more people are out there looking out for one another, the easier the last stretch of this trip will be."
"Agreed," Morningstar said. "Every detail matters. Dismissed."
The Senior Officers quickly stood from their chairs and filed out of the Observation Lounge. Adriana lingered for a moment, her gaze fixed on the anomaly’s pulsating rhythm. She couldn’t shake the feeling that understanding it was key, not just to the mission but to her own recovery.
"We’ll figure this out, Adriana. Whatever it takes." Morningstar offered breaking the woman's concentration on the holographic image.
She offered a small, grateful smile. "I know. Thank you, Captain." Adriana nodded to the last two officers remaining in the room, the ExO and CO.
"I will make sure the ship and crew are as ready as possible," Shar'El said to Morningstar once everyone was out, not wanting to alarm the others with her words. "With the ANUBIS still several hours away from the anomaly, and us dealing with these kinds of hallucinations, I fear that the situation will only get worse. If these hallucinations grow more frequent or vivid, they could compromise the crew’s judgment during critical moments."
The Native American CO thoughtfully nodded his head in concerned agreement. "I am just worried that at some point we may have to call off this mission. I know that the possible discovery and maybe even the fate of Adriana's sister may hang in the balance, but we have to consider the safety of the rest of the crew.
"No one has been hurt," the ExO pointed out. "Well, at least not physically. Some egos and feelings have taken quite a beating, but we have managed through much worse. Right now, I believe that the risks are still minimal, both to the ship and crew."
"Let us hope that you are right Commander."
--==(/\)==--
Setting: Bridge, Rear section
Stardate: Stardate: 44354.1110
"Commander Paquette," Gemma called out as the CEO was about to enter the turbolift to return to her domain. "May I have a word with you?"
"What is it, Gemma?" Sonja nonchalantly replied, spinning on her heels to face the multi-faceted woman.
“If the anomaly is selectively targeting human neurochemistry, should we not be able to create a dampening field to minimize its influence?" The ILO proposed.
The redhead engineer nodded with interest. “Sure, because dampening the unknown with even more unknowns always works. Let me just pull a miracle out of thin air.”
The ILO appeared unimpressed by the woman's dismissal. "It may not be as much of a miracle as you believe it to be, especially if we use the data collected by Doctors Bruxa and Andersson."
"Relax, will you," Sonja laughed. "I already contacted Ani with that idea and she is running various possible implementations including adding a counter-brainwave frequency to the shield harmonics and modifying the ablative armour to add some sort of telepathic blocker. Of course, the trick will be to avoid frying half the ship’s systems or making the shields go haywire in the process. With limited time to pull that miracle out of my ass, it's going to be a challenge but what’s engineering without a little risk?"
"Perhaps Maya could assist by cross-referencing her hallucination with the shield modifications. It might reveal something we haven’t considered," Gemma offered.
"I will, as soon as she is done having a girls's brain review session with the Doctors."
--==(/\)==--
Setting: Bridge, Front section
Stardate: Stardate: 44354.1110
"These gravimetric fluctuations that we have been encountering could throw us off course in a split second. I’ll need to exact very strict parameters to compensate, and that is still with us being quite a distance away," A'Janni noted to himself not realizing that Dr. Noiva was following him.
"I am sure that you are more than up for the task, Lieutenant," Ava said, "Your keen sense of navigation and feline-fast reflexes should be more than enough to guarantee our safe arrival at the ALPHA-KRAILIAN SECTOR."
The Caitian's feline ears twitched at the compliment as she sat at the Flight Control station, not noticing that the woman behind him was no longer looking in his direction but rather at the ILO who was speaking with the CEO on the other end of the bridge.
--==(/\)==--
Francois Charette
Captain Erik Morningstar
Commanding Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
--
"I used to think it was awful that life was so unfair. Then I thought, wouldn't it be much worse if life were fair and all the terrible things that happen to us come because we actually deserve them. So now I take great comfort in the general hostility and unfairness of the universe."
- Marcus Cole, Babylon 5
"Questions"
Previous post: "Mission Briefing - Take 2” by Francois
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Adriana Lopez’s Office
Stardate: 44354.1130
Five hours. That was how close they were. How close she was to hopefully, finally, finding her sister.
Adriana sat at her desk, her hands clasped tightly, staring at the glowing screen of her console. The room was peacefully dark, the only light coming from the holographic interface before her. She needed to review the latest reports detailing the crew’s visions and hallucinations; the unsettling emotions, personal hardships, and painfully vivid memories for those who experienced them.
Her focus first landed on Jayson's report. He had seen his deceased wife. Adriana read the words carefully, trying to understand the depth of his trauma. They had spoken about this ordeal before in previous sessions, but it had never led to such overwhelming emotions. Her counselor’s training urged her to approach this with compassion, to see it as a manifestation of grief and unresolved emotions.
But another part of her couldn’t reconcile Jayson's subsequent actions with his reported experience. He had gone to Captain Morningstar on her behalf, advocating for her reinstatement. After everything, the hallucinations, her confinement, and her own fragile grip on reality, Adriana struggled to believe that Jayson's vision was the sole reason for his decision. There had to be more, something unspoken.
“You’re overthinking it, hermana,” Amanda’s voice teased, cutting through the quiet tension of the room.
Adriana looked up sharply. Amanda stood by the bulkhead, her arms crossed, a wry smile tugging at her lips. Her presence was as vivid as ever, her figure illuminated by the soft glow of Adriana’s console.
“Don’t call me that,” Adriana muttered, rubbing her temples.
Amanda shrugged, stepping closer. “Fine. Sis, then. You always overanalyze everything. Jayson knows what it’s like to lose someone. He’s empathizing with you. It’s not a conspiracy.”
Adriana exhaled sharply. “It’s not that simple. He’s grieving, yes, but why would that lead him to...?” She trailed off, shaking her head. Her thoughts wandered to the earlier briefing and the subtle, fleeting glance Gemma had cast in her direction. The Intelligence Liaison Officer was unreadable on the best of days, her enigmatic nature a constant source of intrigue and frustration. But there had been something different in that moment, a calculated observation, almost as though she had been measuring Adriana’s reactions.
“And what about Gemma?” Adriana added, her voice tinged with suspicion. “She looked at me differently today, like she knows something she’s not saying.”
Amanda perched on the edge of the desk, leaning forward conspiratorially. “Maybe she does. Or maybe you’re making this about you again. Look, maybe Jayson sees a strength in you that you don’t see in yourself. Ever think of that?”
Adriana frowned, avoiding Amanda’s gaze. “And what about the rest of the crew? These visions aren’t random. They’re deeply personal, almost targeted.”
Amanda’s expression shifted, a shadow of seriousness crossing her face. “You’re right. They’re not random. This anomaly... it’s stirring things up. Memories, fears, unresolved grief. It’s like it’s peeling back layers of everyone’s psyche. But it’s not just that. It’s more.”
Adriana leaned back, crossing her arms. “More? What do you mean?”
Amanda hesitated, her usual playfulness giving way to a rare moment of solemnity. “I don’t think you or the crew are fully ready for what’s coming. This anomaly isn’t just some cosmic oddity. It’s a mirror, a gateway, maybe even a warning. But for my sake, for our sake, you can’t give up.”
Adriana felt a chill run down her spine at Amanda’s words. “You keep saying that, but what does it mean? Why does it feel like you know more than you’re letting on?”
Amanda smiled faintly, her form beginning to fade. “You’ll find out. Just don’t lose hope, Adriana. And trust the people around you. They’re stronger than you think. So are you.”
As Amanda vanished, Adriana was left in the quiet of her office, her thoughts racing. The console screen still displayed Jayson’s report, but her focus had shifted. Whatever the anomaly truly was, it was testing them all in ways they had never anticipated. And as much as she feared what they might uncover, she knew Amanda was right. Giving up wasn’t an option.
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
-=-=-
"Tactical Review"
Previous post: "Questions” by Marissa
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.1130
Ya'Han sat at the tactical station, her eyes bouncing between her console and the man sitting across the bridge from her at the Operations Station.
"Chief of Security's log, stardate 44354.1130," she began, her voice steady despite the swirling thoughts in her mind. "The ALPHA-KRAILIAN SECTOR continues to challenge our best efforts. The ship has already started to encounter erratic gravimetric fields, but so far nothing that Sonja and A'Janni can't handle. The swirling field distortions not only obscure our sensor readings but also create an oppressive tension born from the unknowable nature of the anomaly and its psychological impact, making things very difficult for the crew. For me, it’s not the destination itself that unnerves me, but the possibility of what it conceals. An anomaly like this feels unpredictable, dangerous."
She paused before continuing. "My duties have kept me busy, leaving little room for dwelling on the unease that has settled over the ship. Security drills are now routine as I push the team, as well as Zub's MACOs, to adapt to scenarios where the ship’s sensors could be compromised. If there’s one thing my upbringing taught me, it’s to prepare for the unexpected, and this mission seems determined to test us at every turn."
"Still," she admitted, "I can’t help but reflect on how this celestial anomaly seems almost sentient, as if it watches and reacts to our every move. Even Maya, with her obsessive dedication to researching the anomaly, is at a loss for words to describe it, and that in itself is concerning. It reminds me of the darker parts of my past, the kind of danger you feel creeping in before it strikes. but are powerless to do anything about it."
She paused again, noticing that her black hair with red streaks had shifted to full fiery red. The emotional response surprised her, as she believed she had been keeping such feelings under control. A few seconds of focus restored her appearance, but the change underscored the tension simmering just beneath her surface. The anomaly seemed to directly affect some, while just the mention of this mysterious unknown was enough to wreak havoc with their thoughts and emotions.
"For now," she said, resuming her log entry, "I will stay vigilant. My place is here, at the Tactical station, ensuring we can handle anything this anomaly throws our way. No matter the uncertainties ahead, I am determined to protect the crew and see this mission through." She tapped a control. "End recording."
Her thoughts lingered on her duty to protect the ANUBIS and its crew. Yet, despite her professional resolve, her mind drifted to one particular crew member. One soul amongst so many, but one who occupied a special place in her heart.
Why had Jayson gone to see Captain Morningstar about Adriana? Lopez had been a huge help to him since her arrival on the ANUBIS, her presence helping him cope with lingering grief for his lost family and the aftermath of a tumultuous relationship.
Understanding Jayson was an uphill battle, one Ya’Han was determined to fight until the end. Loving him offered her an island of peace and joy in a universe teetering on chaos. Yet his decision to go straight to the Captain without speaking to her stirred doubts. Was it something she had done, or failed to do? Did she truly want the answers to that question?
A weary smile flickered across her lips. The thought of speaking to Adriana crossed her mind; perhaps the Counselor could shed light on Jayson’s actions. But Ya'Han knew herself too well, such a visit would likely end with her breaking down, releasing the fears she had worked so hard to control and suppress.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
---
"Unexpected Discovery"
(Previous Post: "Tactical Review")
---
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 13, Stellar Cartography
Stardate: 44354.1200
The focus of the Shillian Chief Science Officer was absolute, her eyes fixed on the three-dimensional holographic display hovering in the center of Stellar Cartography. The gravitational chaos of the ALPHA-KRAILIN SECTOR sprawled before her as a kaleidoscope of roiling distortions, each data point representing the ever-shifting forces at play within the enigmatic region. Days of work had sharpened her understanding of the anomaly, yet it remained a confounding puzzle, its intricacies demanding relentless attention.
For hours, she had meticulously tracked the patterns of the gravimetric eddies, attempting to decode the anomalies that occasionally flickered on the fringes of the sector. Her hands danced across the console, her mind weaving through possibilities, theories, and calculations. Then, amidst the cacophony of data, a blip.
Maya narrowed her eyes as she recalibrated the sensors, rerouting power from secondary systems to stabilize the fleeting signal. "Fascinating," she muttered, her voice carrying the weight of both intrigue and skepticism. The anomaly had briefly unveiled what appeared to be a small object, a craft, perhaps, drifting within the treacherous gravitational waves that emanated from the sector.
The signal was faint, a whisper amid a storm, but it was undeniably there. Maya adjusted the spectral analysis, compensating for the gravimetric distortions to refine the image. What emerged was startling: a compact vessel, no larger than a Starfleet Runabout, its hull design unfamiliar and its trajectory chaotic as it struggled against the relentless gravitational currents. It almost appeared as if it was adrift, pulled, and pushed by the random gravity currents of the area. How it had managed to stay in one piece was another mystery all onto itself.
As Maya continued her analysis, a new data point flickered on the display. The ship's hull showed faint traces of bio-signature readings, erratic and indistinct, but unmistakable. Coupled with sporadic energy surges from what appeared to be a failing life-support system, the evidence strongly suggested the presence of someone onboard, someone who might be in distress.
The Shillian activated the communication link to the bridge. “Maya to Captain Morningstar,” she began, her tone both urgent and methodical.
=/\= Morningstar here. Go ahead, Commander. Do you have an update on the anomaly for us? =/\=
“Captain, I have detected what appears to be a small craft within the ALPHA-KRAILIN SECTOR,” Maya explained, her words precise and scientifically measured. “The discovery itself is remarkable, given the gravitational interference that has rendered all previous scans ineffective. However, a momentary alignment of the gravimetric waves allowed for a brief glimpse of the object. Its dimensions suggest it is approximately twenty meters in length, with a structure reminiscent of a small transport or exploration vessel. The hull design does not correspond to any known Starfleet or civilian schematics currently in our database. Moreover, the trajectory of the craft indicates it is either adrift or operating with severely compromised navigational systems.”
=/\= Is there any reason why we should try to render assistance? =/\= Morningstar inquired, his voice tinged with curiosity.
“Captain, while the gravimetric distortions obscure many details, I have managed to detect faint and erratic bio-signature readings emanating from within the craft,” Maya replied. “Given the hazardous conditions of the ALPHA-KRAILIN SECTOR, a direct approach to render assistance would be highly challenging but not impossible. The intermittent energy fluctuations I have detected suggest that the life-support system onboard is failing, which means time may be a critical factor. If we were to adjust the ship’s navigational sensors to counteract the gravimetric interference and deploy a shuttle outfitted with reinforced shielding, we might be able to establish closer proximity for a more detailed scan or even attempt a rescue operation. However, this would require exceptional precision to avoid exposing the rescue team to unnecessary risk.”
A brief pause followed as Maya adjusted the projection, displaying the craft’s approximate location relative to the ANUBIS. “I am relaying the data to the bridge now. Given the interference, I recommend proceeding with extreme caution should we choose to investigate further. The gravitational conditions within the sector remain highly unstable, and any attempt to approach the craft would require precise navigational adjustments.”
=/\= Understood, Maya. Continue your analysis and keep us updated. Morningstar out. =/\=
Maya exhaled softly, the holographic display reflecting in her eyes. The small craft was more than an anomaly; it was now a potential lifeline for someone who might still be alive inside, clinging to survival amid the sector’s chaos. With renewed determination, she resumed her work, knowing that every moment counted.
---
Jessica Solarik
Lieutenant Commander Maya
Chief Science Officer
USS ANUBIS
"To see the world in a grain of sand,
and a heaven in a wild flower.
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
and eternity in an hour."
- William Blake (British, 1757-1827)
=-=
"Change of Plan"
Previous post: "Unexpected Discovery" by Jessica
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge -> Captain's Ready Room
Stardate: 44354.1215
Following Maya's report on her discovery, Shar'El wasted no time to take control of the situation, at least as best as they could given the current location of the ANUBIS. "RED ALERT! Ship-wide," The Commander ordered instantly causing the lights to shift to the appropriate crimson hue and receiving a nod from Jayson at the Operations station. "We have just identified a small ship in distress ahead of our current position, we will be heading into the gravimetric turbulence to carry out a rescue operation. As stations, stand-by."
The Commander's gaze fell on Lieutenant A’Janni, the Caitian FCO. "Helm, plot the most stable course possible to bring us to that vessel. Precision is key; we cannot afford to lose control of these turbulences. Aim to have it brought into Cargo Bay 1"
A'Janni's ears twitched before dropping flat against his head, his clawed hands frantically tapping the console. "Understood, Commander. Navigating through this gravimetric soup will be challenging, but I’ll get us there... somehow."
Suddenly, the deck violently shuddered beneath their feet as a wave of gravimetric forces collided against the ANUBIS, a stark reminder of the peril they were already in and about to rush deeper into.
"Lieutenant Gemma," Shar'El continued, her voice sharp and authoritative. "Initiate a full-spectrum scan of the vessel and area. I want to know what we're dealing with. We need structural integrity, power levels, and any signs of hostile interference. Report anything unusual immediately."
The reply came promptly over the comm channel. =/\= Understood, Commander, =/\= Gemma's calm yet focused tone echoed from the Intelligence Gathering Center. =/\= Beginning focused scans now. Initial readings are incomplete due to the sector's interference but I can pick out some sporadic power surges and hull damage consistent with severe gravimetric shear. I'll provide a detailed analysis as soon as possible."
Shar'El nodded, then shifted her attention to the engineering console. "Lieutenant Commander Paquette, we need to reinforce the ablative armor and recalibrate the shields to counteract these gravimetric forces. We can't afford to lose any protection out here."
Sonja's voice came through with a mix of confidence and wry humor. =/\= On it, Commander. The ANUBIS will be tougher than a Ferengi's bargaining tactics by the time I'm done. =/\=
"I'll hold you to that," Shar'El replied, her lips tightening into a fleeting smirk before adding, "One more thing, we might need the transporters in case we are unable to bring the ship into our Shuttle Bay," Shar'El added, knowing the near impossibility of the task of her request.
=/\= Of course, =/\= Sonja said, her frustration clear in her voice. =/\= We wouldn't want to scatter the atoms of the people we are trying to save across the known universe, now would we? No promises on that one, especially since you are giving me mere seconds to figure out something that no one in Starfleet has been able to do in what, 5 or 6 DECADES! But I will try. =/\=
The ExO moved on to her next set of instructions. "Lieutenant Commander Maya, continue monitoring the anomaly. I need updates on its fluctuations and any potential safe paths we can exploit. Coordinate with A'Janni and Gemma for us to get the best course of action for us to take."
=/\= Yes, Commander," Maya responded, her voice steady. =/\= I will isolate any periods of relative stability as best as I can and immediately relay the data to A'Janni. =/\=
"Good," Shar'El said firmly. She turned toward the operations station. "Lieutenant Stark, reinforce the structural integrity field. We’ll need every ounce of stability as we approach that vessel. Coordinate with Engineering and keep me informed of any changes."
"Aye, Commander," Jayson acknowledged, his fingers already working the controls. "Strengthening the field now. We’ll be ready for whatever this anomaly throws at us."
Shar'El's head did a 180, her gaze falling now on the tactical station. "Lieutenant Ya'Han, bring all weapons systems to full readiness. I don’t want any surprises if we encounter an unknown threat. With our sensors so severely compromised, we might not have any time to react if all hell breaks loose."
The now full red-haired security officer's response was swift and resolute. "Understood, Commander. Phaser banks have been powered up, pulse cannons are at the ready and all torpedo tubes are being loaded."
The pulsing red light and blaring klaxons underscored the gravity of the situation the ANUBIS now faced, and yet the staff's response was as controlled and professional as could be, highlighting the experience and confidence of each and every member of the team.
"Lieutenant Enel," Shar'El continued, now addressing the Marine over the ship-wide comm. "Have your team assembled and ready in Shuttle Bay 1. We don’t know what’s aboard that ship or what condition it’s in. Be prepared for anything."
=/\= Acknowledged, Commander, =/\= Zub Enel’s deep voice replied. =/\= The team will be ready. =/\=
Finally, Shar'El opened a channel to Sickbay. "Doctor Bruxa, I want you and the rest of the medical team prepared to handle multiple casualties. We know for sure of one weak life form onboard that ship, but there may be more. You might also have to deal with injuries as we rush into the gravimetric eddies. People are liable to get tossed around quite a bit if things get bumpy."
"IF?" A'Janni unintentionally let out, half hoping that it had not been said loud enough to be heard by the others.
=/\= We’re ready, Commander, =/\= Satella assured her. =/\= Sickbay is prepped, and all hands are on standby. =/\=
Shar’El took a brief moment to survey the bridge, ensuring all stations were fully engaged. The rustle of activity reassured her as she turned her focus to the Captain. "All stations are ready, Sir."
Erik’s gaze lingered on the viewscreen, the faint, barely visible outline of the distressed ship looming ahead. This wasn’t part of their mission, but he knew, as did everyone else, that leaving it to its unsavory fate was not an option.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
“Move ‘Em Out”
Previous post: “Change of Plan” by Tiffany
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 20, Marine Mess Hall
Stardate: 44354.1220
=/\= Lieutenant Enel. Have your team assembled and ready in Shuttle Bay 1. We don’t know what’s aboard that ship or what condition it’s in. Be prepared for anything. =/\=
“Acknowledged, Commander Shar’El,” Zub Enel’s rumbled. “The team will be ready.”
He returned his attention to Sargent Rokktha, a Pendari, who was hunched over fiddling with the out-of-joint elbow of a mechanized fighting suit sprawled over a table. The sergeant said with anticipation, “Sounds like we’re hauling in some kind of bogey, eh? At last, something real to do.”
Zub Enel asked, “Who do we have stationed near Shuttle Bay 1?”
Sargent Rokktha was bigger than most Terrans and twice as aggressive. Topped with bony plates, his broad face looked thoughtful. “Corporal Dentik and Private Ba’ar are closest.”
“What’s their loadout?”
“Standard MACO utility belts; stun baton and grenade, phaser pistol.”
“That’ll do. Redeploy them on the double. They’ll need particle rifles, too. I want four more bodies in there, two in environmental suits. Full battle loadouts. Have them bring particle rifles for Dentik and Ba’ar.”
The big Pendari lit up with a gap-tooth grin, his bony forehead flushing pink. He straightened to his full height. “Aye aye, sir. You think we’ll really need EVs?”
“Commander Shar’El said be ready for anything. A last resort might be emergency decompression of the Bay. At least two of our troops will be ready to carry on the battle.”
The sergeant had headed toward the mess hall doors. He looked over his massive shoulder, his eyes bright, “While the rest of us blow out into space and die?”
“Remember, Sergeant, we MACOs die at attention.”
The noncom chuckled. The doors hissed shut behind him.
Zub raised his PADD to fill himself in on all the Bridge had discovered about their incoming visitor. He planned to be in the bay, too. The MACOs could go in blind and improvise a hard fight, but he preferred more preparation.
=-=
David Michael Inverso (wavodavo2000@gmail.com)
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
"Whatever you are looking for is also looking for you. You see, don't only look. Be available and ready when it shows up."
— Sahndra Fon Dufe
— Sahndra Fon Dufe
=-=
"Threading the Eye of the Storm"
Previous post: "Move ‘Em Out" by David
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 34354.1220
Using the navigational data provided by Lt. Cmdr. Maya and Lt. Gemma, A'Janni gave his instruments one last glance before bracing himself. This storm was unlike anything the Caitian FCO had ever faced, hell itself, rendered in raw, destructive gravitational forces.
With a few calculated commands, the USS ANUBIS plunged into the gravimetric storm. The ship groaned under the immense strain, its ablative armor pushed to the limit as it absorbed the chaotic gravitational forces tearing at the vessel. A'Janni’s clawed hands gripped the helm controls, his sharp feline eyes darting between the ever-shifting holographic projections fed by Stellar Cartography and the IGC.
"Lieutenant Commander Maya," Captain Morningstar's voice cut through the storm’s deafening chaos. "We need real-time updates on the storm's dynamics, every second counts."
=/\= Understood, Captain, =/\= Maya replied, her fingers could be heard dancing over the console in Stellar Cartography. =/\= But the data's changing faster than I can process it. We might need to slow down to give the sensors time to... =/\=
=/\= That’s a luxury we don’t have, =/\= interrupted Gemma from the IGC, her voice sharp with urgency. =/\= The target ship's integrity just dropped another 12%. If we don’t get there in the next minute, there won’t be anything left to recover. Helm, transmitting new trajectory data, I suggest you aim for an intercept course to position us ahead of their momentum. It’s the only chance we have of guiding it into Shuttle Bay 1. =/\=
A'Janni growled low in his throat but nodded. His console lit up with the new data, showing gravitational eddies swirling in unpredictable, violent patterns. The Caitian’s ears flattened against his head, a sign of his intense concentration as he adjusted the ship’s trajectory.
A sudden, deafening rumble swept through the ANUBIS, throwing crew members against their restraints. Panels flickered as the ship fought to maintain stability.
"Structural integrity at 82%!" reported Jayson from the Operations station, his voice tight with worry. "Ablative armor’s holding, but it’s taking a beating. Inertial dampeners are also down 18%, and we’re starting to feel the strain!"
"Noted, Lieutenant," Morningstar replied, his tone grim but steady. "Helm, push through! We need to reach that ship now."
The target vessel, a battered runabout-sized vessel, finally appeared on the viewscreen with some clarity. Its hull was warped and fractured, chunks of debris spiraling away as the storm clawed at it. A'Janni’s ears twitched as he nudged the ANUBIS closer, threading the starship through the storm’s relentless forces.
"Captain!" Stark shouted. "The target ship is breaking apart, its integrity’s down to less than 15%! If we’re bringing it aboard, it has to happen now!"
"A'Janni, prepare for emergency recovery!" Morningstar barked. "Stark, get Shuttle Bay 1 ready. This is going to be messy."
The FCO’s hands moved with feline precision, adjusting the ship’s trajectory with every shift in the storm. In Shuttle Bay 1, the MACO security detail held their positions, bracing as the bay doors opened to reveal the storm’s howling void. The forcefield flickered under the immense pressure.
"Steady..." A'Janni muttered under his breath, his ears flicking back as he guided the ANUBIS into position ahead of the crumbling runabout.
On the bridge, Stark switched the main viewscreen to the Shuttle Bay 1 feed, showing the runabout wobbling erratically as it approached the forcefield. The sight drew a sharp gasp from Ya’Han as the vessel appeared to roll onto its side.
"Can we rotate the ANUBIS to match the target’s orientation?" Morningstar asked, his voice tight.
"Negative, Captain!" Stark called out. "No time, the ship is falling apart! It’s now or never!"
"Reducing speed! Brace for impact!" A'Janni warned, his voice a growl as he made the final adjustments.
The runabout-sized ship, now several meters smaller on all sides, slammed through the flickering forcefield, scraping violently along the bay floor. Sparks flew in every direction as the crumbling vessel skidded to a halt, crashing into the containment field with a deafening clang.
"Target vessel is aboard!" Stark reported, relief flooding his voice. The moment was short-lived though. "We’ve lost all communication with Shuttle Bay 1 and Lieutenant Zub. Systems are offline, likely due to the landing."
"That was not a landing," Commander Shar’El quipped, her tone dry but tinged with approval. "Still, well done everyone. Ya’Han, get down there and assess the situation immediately."
As the bridge crew steadied themselves, the ANUBIS lurched again, another wave of the storm battering its hull. The gravimetric storm raged on, but the first part of their mission was complete. Whether they could survive the storm long enough to see it through was another matter entirely.
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant JG A'Janni
Flight Control Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
=-=
“Conflagration”
Previous post: "Threading the Eye of the Storm" by Jayson
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Corridor -> Shuttle Bay 1
Stardate: 44354.1230
The alarms blared across the ship, sending Ya’Han sprinting through the corridors of the ANUBIS toward Shuttle Bay 1. Adrenaline coursed through her veins as her black hair flared with streaks of red. She barely registered the confused faces of crewmembers who stepped out of her path. Her focus was singular, the distress signal, the lifeform reported to be inside, and the urgency of bringing the damaged ship aboard had led to whatever she would find.
When the doors to the shuttle bay hissed open, Ya’Han was met with an overwhelming scene of chaos.
The wrecked craft lay smoldering at an odd angle, flames licking at the remains of its warped hull. Pieces of its structure hung loosely, sparking dangerously. Smoke choked the air despite the bay's ventilation systems, and the red glow of hazard lights bathed the space in an ominous hue.
Zub’s hulking figure was already striding purposefully toward the flaming wreck, his team trailing behind him with fire suppression units.
“The main fire suppression system is offline!” shouted one of the engineers desperately working at a nearby console.
Ya’Han’s heart sank. The portable extinguishers the Marines carried barely seemed to dent the raging inferno consuming the ship. The lifeform trapped inside had mere moments left.
“Zub, it’s too dangerous!” she called out, her voice strained against the crackle of flames and chaos of shouted commands.
Zub didn’t even slow down. “I am not leaving them!” His tone was resolute, a mixture of frustration and defiance.
“You’ll get yourself killed!” Ya’Han shouted, moving to intercept him, but his momentum carried him past her, a towering force of sheer will and determination. "It's too hot in there, you'll never make it."
He turned briefly, eyes locking with hers. “I must try, or they are dead anyway. How would I live with that? Remember, you once told me that I was tougher than I looked.”
Ya’Han’s jaw tightened as she watched Zub disappear into the inferno, her tactical mind assessing every angle of the situation.
“Lieutenant!” one of the engineers called. “The forcefield isn’t going to hold! If it collapses, the whole bay will depressurize.”
Ya’Han spun toward him, panic rising. The implications were grim, if the fire overwhelmed the bay, they’d risk catastrophic damage to the ship itself.
“Evacuate the shuttle bay!” she ordered, glancing back toward the craft. She could still see Zub's shadowed outline moving through the flames. The thought of pulling the airlock open and ejecting the wreck, along with Zub, twisted like a blade in her gut.
"What are you still doing here?" Sonja demanded, the CEO having rushed in to ascertain the situation with her own eyes. "We need to get that burning mess off the ANUBIS NOW!"
"Zub is in there," Ya'Han countered. Her fingers darted to her communicator hoping to find some alternate solution. “Ya’Han to bridge! Captain, Zub is inside the wreck attempting to rescue the lifeform. If we evacuate, they won’t make it. Requesting immediate advice!”
"We have to jettison that wreck out NOW or risk losing the ANUBIS," Sonja said, taking hold of Ya'Han to lock eyes with her. "Listen rainbow-girl, I understand, trust me, I do, we never want to lose someone, but right now it's either him or us. The ANUBIS is not fairing all that well in this gravimetric hell, and losing this part of the ship could cause our structural integrity to fail. Ani is scared! ANI IS SCARED!"
=/\= Morningstar here, Lt. Commander Paquette, do what you have to to save the ANUBIS. =/\=
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Shuttle Bay 1, inside the burning wreck
Stardate: 44354.1233
Zub Enel was baking in his uniform which was aflame. Flames in lines down his outstretched arms. Flames everywhere, licking out of hull rents in the oddly shaped craft, jetting through holes, bellowing out of ragged gaps; all openings he couldn’t fit through. Heat hotter than a phaser blast. It wavered in intensity. Each peak that much hotter. He felt his scales crisping. He squinted his eyes to keep fire from searing him blind.
He took a moment to rip off his com badge and shove it in his trouser pocket. He shrugged off his uniform coat. He used it to grip a torn-out part of the hull that offered an opening if he could pull it further away. Something cold hit the back of his scorched shirt. Fire suppression. Someone was hosing him down, proof the troops were keeping their heads about them.
He yanked on the ripped hull section. It bent, possibly loosened and softened in the raging inferno. He grimaced from the effort as he threw in one more heave. His newly exposed lips and teeth boiled.
He got the melting metal slab yanked aside enough for him to stoop and squeeze into the vessel. Inside was no better. There was sizzling and disembodied shrieks, clicking and roaring. Controls up forward were disgorging thick acrid smoke from high flames. There were two seats side by side, blazing but empty. He raised an arm to shield his eyes and hurriedly scanned the hellish interior. His pants were ablaze. His boots smoked. His body refused to let him draw breath in the heat. He physically fought a desperate desire to turn and flee. He knew he didn’t have long in such a furnace.
There. On the deck. A body-sized lump under a silvery blanket. A metal girder lay diagonally across the lump.
He reached down and grabbed the form. It startled so badly that he lost his grip. The top of the blanket flopped aside. A female face, middle aged. Hair started to shrivel and smoke.
“Come!” Zub shouted; the command needless as she was already attempting to scrambled up.
He threw what was left of his burning jacket over her head, but she knocked the flaming fabric off with a wave of an arm. He pulled the silvery blanket over her head. Kneeling, he gripped the girder to lift it. It cooked deep into his palms. He cried out in pain, but got his legs positioned for a better lift. He could no longer see. He stuck out his tongue in a mighty shove against the deck and the girder.
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Shuttle Bay 1
Stardate: 44354.1233
"EVERYBODY OUT!" Sonja screamed, "You too Ya'Han."
"We can't... I can't," the Nylaan pleaded, her hair turning solid black.
=/\= I've got her, =/\= Zub's laboured voice came over the comm channel. =/\= She's pinned by debris, I need more time. =/\=
“We don’t have more time!” Paquette snapped, "Come out now or I jettison your sorry reptilian ass out with the flaming mess."
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Shuttle Bay 1, inside the burning wreck
Stardate: 44354.1234
Zub felt the woman help lift the beam. The girder rose ever so slightly, but not enough. He fought an overwhelming instinct to stop the pain by letting go of the blazing hot beam. He willed himself to give it one last Herculean shove. It was too heavy, even for both of them.
The beam suddenly, unexpectedly lifted away. Strong hands seized him. He was dragged more than allowed to stand. Someone shouted orders. He was hauled in rough fits and pulled toward the opening. A male shouted in his ear, “Come on, sir. They’re one nanosecond from blowing us and this pile of crap into space.”
He felt gloves on his skin, shoving his now shirtless body through the gap he had made. He realized in a flash these were the two troopers he had ordered to wear EV suits. He tried to smile at his foresight, but his cheeks were too stiff.
The male yanked him through the gap and then pulled him forward. “Go, go, go!”
Pulled hard by his fellow teammates, Zub staggered blindly ahead.
There was a boom. A terrific wind ripped at Zub’s blistered face. A deafening chorus of metal on metal wailed. A boot swept his feet from under him. A body landed on his back and forced him to the deck. Someone yelled, “Hang….”
He scrambled around with fingers that felt brittle. His claws felt melted. He took hold of a cargo tied down, fastened to the deck, and hung on with whatever strength he had left. He hoped the woman was still in the bay similarly held down. He guessed he could add explosive decompression to his list of life experiences.
The silence that followed was deafening as bitter cold rushed in to add new pain to old, all while feeling his consciousness slipping away aided by the inability to breathe.
Memories of his time on the ANUBIS flashed in rapid succession, each carrying a distinct emotion with it. Slowly, a sense of peace washed over him, the pain gradually drifting into the darkness that was closing in on him.
"Zub? Zub! Stay with me. I NEED A MEDICAL TEAM HERE NOW!"
He recognized Ya'Han's voice, but the urgency in her words felt foreign, distant as if both the woman and her words were somewhere distant, somewhere that no longer applied to him.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
and
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
=-=
"Between Life and Oblivion"
Previous post: "Conflagration" by David and Hanali
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.1245
The atmosphere in Sickbay was charged with urgency as the medical team prepared for the incoming casualties. Doctor Satella Bruxa, having administered emergency first aid to Lieutenant Zub Enel in Shuttle Bay 1, now accompanied the gravely injured Marine Commanding Officer and the unidentified Terran woman into the medical bay. Both patients exhibited extensive third-degree plasma burns, their vital signs perilously unstable.
=/\= We have two critical patients incoming. Can't risk site-to-site transport due to gravimetric interference, =/\= Satella announced, her voice steady yet urgent. =/\= Lieutenant Enel and an unidentified female, both with severe plasma burns and signs of explosive decompression trauma. We'll need two cardiac resuscitation kits at the ready. =/\=
Nurses swiftly positioned themselves for action, the clatter of anti-grav stretchers echoed sharply as the doors to Sickbay whooshed open. A faint acrid scent of scorched flesh lingered in the air, mixing with the sterile tang of antiseptics. The room was a symphony of medical alerts and the hum of equipment, each sound underscoring the critical nature of the situation.
As the patients were carefully placed onto the biobeds, Sofia's breath caught in her throat. The sight of their charred and blistered skin triggered a visceral flashback to the aftermath of the Paris attack, the memories of burnt victims flooding her mind. Andersson's grip on the regenerator faltered. Flames danced behind her eyes, her mind trapped in the charred ruins of the destroyed city. The echoes of shrieks, the remnants of searing heat, all surged around the woman like a tidal wave.
"Sofia!" Ava's sharp tone cut through the haze of memory. "Focus on the task at hand. We need to stabilize her if she's to have any chance of survival. Whatever you are going through can wait."
Ava’s voice cut through the haze like a lifeline. Sofia blinked, her breath hitching. This wasn’t Paris, she reminded herself, this was now. These were lives she could save. She steadied her hands, her voice firm. “Stabilizing vitals.”
Satella, meanwhile, was intently focused on Zub. "Initiating vascular regenerator," she stated, applying the device to a particularly severe wound. "We need to restore circulatory integrity to prevent systemic shock."
"Doctor, he's flatlining," a nurse said with urgency, "We're losing him!"
"Damn it, Zub," Satella growled, her hands moving swiftly but firmly. "You don't get to die on my watch."
Ava monitored the biobed's readouts, her eyes scanning the fluctuating data. "Administering 20ccs of morphenolog," she said, preparing the hypospray. "This should help manage his pain and reduce neural stress."
Ya'Han's white hair betrayed her inner turmoil as she clenched her fists, her voice a whisper. "Hold on, Zub. Hold on." The Nylaan knew that her medical knowledge and skills were far below those of the Doctor working arduously to save the Voth's life.
The hypospray hissed softly as it delivered the analgesic through Zub's handful of intact scales, bypassing the need for intravenous access. His vital signs showed a slight improvement, but the danger was far from over.
"We have a pulse," the nurse announced. "Very weak, but a pulse nonetheless."
Suddenly the Voth's body began to convulse. "We've lost the pulse again!" the nurse shouted. Satella’s heart clenched as she grabbed the cortical stimulator. "Clear!"
The air in Sickbay stood still as eyes and hearts paused, then a single beep, followed by another and soon after another. "He's back," the nurse sighed with relief.
"For now," Bruxa mumbled under her breath, her experience dictating a less optimistic view of the situation. "Don't you dare prove to me that you are so easily taken down.," she added, managing to hold on to a shred of hope.
"Sofia, we need to intubate," Ava directed, unable to afford the time to celebrate Satella's accomplishment, noting the other patient's labored breathing. "Her airway is compromised."
Sofia prepared the subdermal tracheal inducer, her movements now precise and controlled. "Ready," she confirmed, gently positioning the device against the woman's neck. With a soft click, it established an airway, her oxygen saturation levels beginning to rise.
Satella glanced at the overhead monitors, her expression resolute. "We need to initiate rapid sequence induction," she said. "Prepare 10 milligrams of etomidate and 100 milligrams of succinylcholine."
Ava swiftly readied the medications, administering them through the hypospray. "Induction agents delivered," she confirmed. "Proceeding with intubation."
With practiced efficiency, Satella inserted the endotracheal tube, securing it in place. "Airway secured," she announced. "Commence mechanical ventilation at 12 breaths per minute, tidal volume 500 milliliters."
The ventilator engaged, its rhythmic hiss a reassuring counterpoint to the urgency of their actions. Sofia continued to monitor the woman's vital signs, noting a marked improvement.
"She's responding," Sofia said, a note of relief in her voice. "But we need to address the risk of compartment syndrome from the extensive burns."
"Agreed," Satella replied. "Prepare for escharotomy. We need to relieve the pressure and restore perfusion to the affected tissues."
As they worked with unwavering focus, the initial chaos of Sickbay gave way to a coordinated effort, each member of the medical team performing their duties with precision. The specter of past traumas lingered at the edges of Sofia's consciousness, but Ava's earlier admonition kept her grounded in the present, her determination to save these lives overriding the haunting memories.
Minutes passed in a blur of medical interventions, the team's exhaustion tempered by the gradual improvement in their patients' conditions. The battle was far from over, but for now, they had pulled both Lieutenant Enel and the unidentified woman back from the precipice, their vital signs gradually stabilizing, the immediate danger abated.
Sofia stepped back, her gaze lingering on the patients. The road to recovery would be long and arduous, but in this moment, amidst the beeping monitors and the sterile scent of Sickbay, there was a glimmer of hope.
"Well done, everyone," Satella said quietly, her voice tinged with both fatigue and pride. "Let's keep a close watch on them. The next 24 hours will be critical."
As the team began the meticulous process of post-operative care, Sofia allowed herself a brief moment to breathe, the weight of the past easing its grip, replaced by the resolve to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
In the stillness of Sickbay, the steady hum of monitors felt like fragile lifelines anchoring them to hope. The battle was won, but the war raged on. Each breath their patients took was a tenuous promise, a reminder of the thin line between life and oblivion.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
"A Name in the Ashes"
Previous post: "Between Life and Oblivion"
Location: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.1245
The atmosphere in Sickbay was electric, crackling with the weight of urgency. Doctor Bruxa worked tirelessly, her every movement a symphony of precision as she fought to stabilize the injured Zub. Medics darted around her, instruments humming and beeping, yet their sounds faded into the background for Gemma, who stood cloaked in the shadows.
Her eyes weren’t on Zub, nor on the frantic medical team. Instead, her gaze was locked on the unconscious woman lying on the biobed across the room. The woman was a puzzle, unfamiliar, disheveled, and injured, but something about her presence gnawed at Gemma’s instincts.
Her charred clothes hinted to a civilian, her musculature was not that of a trader, her features, or at least what could be discerned through the layers of burnt skin, showed a middle-aged woman with no identifiable marking. As far as the ILO was concerned, the woman was a nobody.
“Why does she feel like a threat?” Gemma thought, though her posture betrayed no outward concern.
Her mind buzzed with activity, an internal cacophony of voices vying for dominance.
“She’s harmless,” said Gwenvel, the El-Aurian counselor's tone soothing yet dismissive. “Focus on what matters.”
“That’s naive,” countered Anya Petrov sharply. “Anyone could be a threat if they’re clever enough.” The accent of the Russian assassin was thick and as sharp as a razor.
“Or desperate enough,” Za’Ran added, the Nylaan's voice a low, calculating whisper.
Ema Fairchild’s gentle tone broke through the static. “Maybe she needs help, not suspicion," the Oltharian Warrior Priest proposed.
“We don’t help unknown variables without knowing their purpose,” Gabrielle Wolfe, the saboteur snapped.
“She’s intriguing,” Lireen the explorer chimed in with curiosity. “We should… investigate.”
Gemma’s lips thinned as the internal debate raged on, each voice sharpening her perception. The woman’s pale, still face stirred something unfamiliar within her, though she couldn’t place what. Stepping forward, she crossed the room silently, her boots making no sound against the deck plating.
As she cautiously approached the biobed, her keen eyes caught sight of a small metallic object lying on the floor. Something small and out of place. Was it an additional mystery or maybe an answer to one of the many questions that plagued the ILO's mind?
Bending down, she delicately retrieved it, a simple wrist nameplate, scuffed from wear, and charred from the hell that had nearly claimed her life. Gemma turned it over in her hands, studying every minute detail of the object. Her curiosity unsatiated, she rubbed the outer surface clean before reading the engraved name that was now visible: Christie.
She leaned closer to the woman, studying her features. The intubation tube in place rendered her silent, but Gemma’s voice carried the questions unspoken.
“Christie,” she murmured. “Is it your first name? Your last? Or… someone special to you?”
A presence at her side startled her, though she didn’t show it. Sonja stepped into view, her arms crossed, and looked down at the unconscious figure on the biobed.
“Could be her cat’s name, for all we know,” Sonja quipped, her voice laced with dry humor.
Gemma turned her head, her expression neutral but her eyes questioning. The Chief Engineering Officer chuckled, shrugging.
“What?” Sonja grinned. “I had to see who almost managed to destroy my ship from the inside out.”
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
"Shadows in the Light"
Previous post: "A Name in the Ashes” by Rachel
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.1400
The ANUBIS was now deep inside the ALPHA-KRAILIN SECTOR, a fact that was impossible to miss thanks to the constant shifts and jerks the ship was enduring due to the gravimetric eddies they were navigating through. This meant that they were now three hours from the anomaly... and possible answers as to Amanda's whereabouts.
With that thought hovering in her mind, Adriana walked quietly into Sickbay, the sterile environment unusually subdued. She paused just inside the door, her gaze falling first on Zub Enel. The Voth Marine Command Officer lay motionless on a biobed, his scaled features marred by plasma burns. The monitors surrounding him emitted soft, steady beeps, a constant reminder that, while critical, he was stable.
Her eyes then shifted to the adjacent biobed. The unknown woman, “Christie,” as Gemma had taken to calling her, was no better off. Her body was swathed in medical bandages, concealing the worst of the burns. The small metallic wrist nameplate found in her possession rested on a nearby tray, the name “Christie” barely legible beneath layers of damage.
Adriana drew a deep breath, her chest tightening. These two had been through unspeakable pain. The fact that they were alive was a testament to the skill of the medical team and sheer resilience.
She approached Zub’s bed first, pulling up a chair. For a long moment, she said nothing, simply watching the rise and fall of his chest.
“Hey, big guy,” she murmured softly, her voice gentle. “I don’t know if you can hear me, but I’m here. You’re going to be okay. You’re tougher than this.”
She hesitated, her hands clasped in her lap. “The crew’s worried about you. I’m worried about you. We need you back, Zub.”
Adriana spent the next several minutes speaking to him about everything and nothing, hoping the sound of her voice might somehow reach him.
“I wish I could do more,” she admitted softly.
A familiar voice broke the silence. “That makes two of us.”
Adriana startled, turning sharply. Amanda stood across the room, her gaze locked on the unknown woman. Her sister’s usually playful demeanor was absent, replaced by an intensity that bordered on fear.
“Amanda?” Adriana’s voice trembled. “What’s wrong?”
Amanda shook her head, muttering under her breath. “It cannot be. It’s impossible.”
Adriana stood, moving closer. “What are you talking about? Do you know her?”
Amanda didn’t respond, her eyes wide with disbelief. She took a step back, her hands trembling.
“Amanda, please,” Adriana pressed. “If you know something, tell me. Who is she?”
Amanda finally turned to face her sister, and the raw emotion in her eyes sent a chill down Adriana’s spine. “You have to save us,” Amanda said, her voice barely above a whisper. “All of us.”
Before Adriana could respond, Amanda vanished, leaving only a faint shimmer in the air where she had stood.
Adriana felt her knees weaken, her hand gripping the edge of the biobed for support. Her heart pounded in her chest, Amanda’s cryptic words echoing in her mind.
“All of us,” Adriana repeated aloud, her gaze falling on the unconscious woman. Who was Christie? And what connection did she have to Amanda?
The questions weighed heavily on Adriana as she stared at the two patients. Zub and Christie were fighting for their lives, and now it seemed there was more at stake than she could have imagined.
With a deep breath, Adriana straightened. Whatever Amanda had meant, she couldn’t ignore it. She had to find answers, but the thought and determination that accompanied it were quickly sidelineed as the lights shifted to the red flashing indicators.
=/\= RED ALERT, all hands to battle stations. =/\=
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi {mmlm12121112@gmail.com}
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
-=-=-
"By the Sphere's Edge"
Previous post: "Shadows in the Light” by Marissa
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.1410
Ya'Han sat at the Tactical station, her fingers poised over the console while her eyes flicked to the main viewscreen. The stark contrast of the immense shimmering sphere and the scarred, hulking Tzenkethi ship, set against the background of the twisting eddies made the scene surreal. The predator had emerged from the shadows of the gravimetric distortions, imposing and damaged, yet defiant.
Sensors, however, stubbornly denied its existence.
“They’re not even supposed to be in this quadrant,” Commander Shar’El said sharply, her piercing gaze locked on the screen.
“And there’s no reason for them to be here, either,” Ya'Han added, double-checking her readouts in frustration. “The ship is clearly out there, but without visual confirmation, we wouldn’t even know.”
Captain Morningstar leaned forward in his chair, his expression a mask of grim focus. “Gemma, how did they get here undetected?”
Gemma’s voice replied over the comm from the IGC. =/\= Their hull seems to refract scans, redirecting them around the ship. Combine that with the chaotic energy from the sector, and it’s an effective cloak. Resourceful bastards. =/\= A pause, then: =/\= It’s similar to our ablative cloaking armor but less refined. If this was intentional, it’s impressive. If it’s by accident... they’re lucky to be alive. =/\=
“Cloaked, heavily damaged, and positioned at the anomaly,” Jayson muttered from Ops. “That doesn’t scream coincidence.”
Ya’Han scrutinized the ship’s hull. Its exterior bore deep scarring, likely from gravitational forces or internal system overloads. “They didn’t just sneak here. They fought their way in. If this sector's hazards didn’t cause the extensive damage, then what did?" She wondered as to what might be hidden inside the moon-sized spherical lattice.
“Agreed,” Morningstar mused darkly. “If something more formidable lies beyond that sphere's edge, it would explain their silence and reluctance to engage. They are too busy keeping an eye on whatever is inside to be bothered by us.”
Ya’Han suppressed a shiver, forcing herself to focus on facts. Despite the rigorous tactical training, her thoughts strayed to Zub, the Marine Commanding Officer, recovering in sickbay. She vividly recalled the absolute determination etched into his features as the Voth dove through flames in the shuttle bay. His heroism exemplified the ANUBIS's spirit, compelling her to push through the uncertainty.
“Worst case scenario, it could be a bait. The Tzenkethi are known for their excessively brutal boarding tactics,” Ya’Han said aloud, breaking the growing silence. “Even if their weapons arrays are damaged, a boarding assault is their hallmark, the one thing they are most infamous for. Even the Klingons know better than to go up against one of their boarding parties. And with our sensors hampered, we could be just waiting for the trap to be sprung.”
Morningstar’s brow furrowed. “Shar’El, tactical analysis?”
“We are operating with incomplete data,” the ExO admitted, her voice tight. “The IGC’s efforts are constrained by interference, and every second increases the chance of an error in judgment.”
“They’re masking something,” Ya’Han interjected, her gaze narrowing as an idea formed. “Gemma, can we expand a sweep beyond standard parameters? Focus on gravimetric distortions. If this isn’t the only ship, we might detect residual signatures, be them cloaked or otherwise.”
=/\= I’ll push the algorithms to their limit, =/\= Gemma replied briskly. =/\= Tzenkethi rarely operate alone. If there are others lurking out there, we'll drag them into the light, interference or not, I'll find them. =/\=
The tension ratcheted up another notch as Captain Morningstar addressed the bridge. “Security details to key access points. Jayson, get me a systems overlay on Tzenkethi boarding capabilities, if there’s a chink in their armor, I want to know. Shar’El, assist Gemma in assessing possible reinforcement patterns. We’re missing a crucial piece of what's happening here and I do not want to be caught off guard.”
The intensity in the room sharpened as Ya’Han keyed commands to recalibrate tactical systems. The flashing indicators remained maddeningly ambiguous. This moment, like so many others, reminded her of the fragile balance they all maintained, a balance one wrong move could shatter.
The bridge lights dimmed slightly as the Tactical console struggled to maintain a stable feed, adding to the oppressive weight of the moment
Her gaze wandered briefly to Jayson, who worked furiously at Ops, his usual wit dulled by the gravity of the moment. The shared glance between them held an unspoken promise: neither would falter. Not today. Not with so much at stake.
Ya’Han’s fingers paused on her console, her mind flashing back to Zub, engulfed by flames yet unyielding in his determination to save another. Is courage, his determination was an inspiration for them all, so she had to make sure he remained safe, like every other soul aboard.
“Eyes open, weapons ready,” she said softly to herself. Her focus locked in again, and her hair’s red streak seemed to spread, threatening to overtake the black strands that surrounded it. Whatever the Tzenkethi or the anomaly had planned, she wouldn’t allow it to break her or this crew.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
"A Sphere of Trouble"
Previous post: "By the Sphere's Edge"
Location: USS ANUBIS, IGC
Stardate: 44354.1430
Gemma sat in the dim glow of the IGC, her sharp gaze locked on the flickering holo-screens. Every distorted image, every grainy fragment of the lattice structure mocked her efforts. Sensors were useless, blinded by the gravimetric interference from the ALPHA-KRAILIAN SECTOR. What should have been a finely tuned symphony of data was now chaotic noise. The only thing functional was the visual feed, a maddeningly unreliable source.
The sphere loomed ahead, its webbed surface shimmering like an apparition. Large openings dotted its expanse, massive enough to swallow ships far larger than the ANUBIS. But they were blind to what lay within. The images flickered and danced, warped by unseen forces. Each attempt to focus was like trying to grasp smoke.
"Why won’t you stay still?" Gemma growled, her fingers drumming on the console.
"Perhaps the distortion is deliberate," Wimda offered calmly, her Uxali perspective framing the phenomenon as calculated rather than random. "If one wished to conceal their actions or their presence..."
The scientist’s reasoning only deepened Gemma’s frustration. "Then they’re doing a damned good job."
"The sheer size of that thing is… remarkable," Lireen, the Edo explorer, murmured, her awe almost childlike.
Jinx’s growl cut through the reverie. "Remarkable doesn’t mean safe. Whoever built this has power. And power is always dangerous."
Gemma exhaled sharply, pushing away the cacophony of voices both external and internal. She needed focus. The Tzenkethi ships lurking not far enough added to the tension. One wrong move and the ANUBIS could be exposed, outgunned, and surrounded.
"We should take the fight to them," Anya Petrov suggested, her Russian accent sharp with confidence. "Blast the interference, force their hand."
Shinral, ever the cautious Reman, countered. "That could draw more ships. And if they have reinforcements, we’d be outnumbered and vulnerable."
"Patience is a virtue," Za’Ran added, her Nylaan calm a stark contrast to Anya’s fiery resolve.
"Patience might get us killed," Jinx snapped.
Gemma slammed her fist against the console, silencing them all. "Enough!" The fractured personalities in her head retreated, leaving her alone with the oppressive weight of the unknown.
The screen flickered, offering another tantalizing glimpse of the lattice’s massive openings. For an instant, something moved, a shadow, a ripple of motion, but it vanished before she could make sense of it.
Her pulse quickened. "Was that a ship?"
The question hung in the air as Gemma stood, pacing toward the tactical display. She aligned the ship’s sensors manually, trying to extract any clarity from the chaos.
Another flicker. A flash of motion. Her gut churned.
"Jinx," she muttered, her voice low, "if you were hunting prey, how would you use a place like this?"
"It’s perfect for an ambush," the bounty hunter replied grimly. "Blind the prey, disorient them, then move in while they’re vulnerable."
Gemma’s heart sank. The distortion wasn’t just an obstacle, it was a weapon.
Then she heard it. A faint, irregular sound. A hollow echo reverberating through the ship’s frame. It wasn’t mechanical; it was rhythmic.
Her blood ran cold.
"No…" Her fingers flew across the console, pulling up internal ship readings. They were scrambled, fragmented, but one thing was clear. Unauthorized energy signatures were appearing across the ANUBIS.
Her eyes widened. "They’re already here."
Slamming her palm against the comm panel, she triggered the klaxon. The ship's red lights flared to life once again, and her voice rang out through every corridor.
"Intruder alert! All hands, prepare to repel boarding!"
Too late. The realization clawed at her as she reached for her phaser. The ship was under attack, and she hadn’t seen it coming.
The distorted image of the sphere flickered on the screen behind her, its mysterious openings now seeming to mock her. The ANUBIS had been lured to the edge of the unknown, and now the crew stood on the brink of a battle they weren’t prepared for.
Gemma’s jaw tightened. She didn’t have time to dwell on her failure. The fight had already begun. Her eyes darted over the scrambled internal sensor readouts, rapidly memorizing the intruders’ locations and numbers. Twelve Tzenkethi. They’d exploited weaknesses in the ANUBIS’s damaged ablative armor to breach the ship.
Two groups of six had made it aboard. One had entered through the compromised Shuttle Bay on Deck 4, while the other had likely infiltrated via the Variable Environment Cargo Bays on Deck 26, which still had external access ports exposed due to the structural damage.
"The first group is likely heading for the bridge," Anya said, her thick Russian accent cutting through the tense air like a blade.
"Unlikely," Jinx countered sharply. "They’re too smart to stay clustered. A large group would be more noticeable and less effective. No, they'll split. Half will make for the bridge, while the others head for Sickbay, standard Tzenkethi tactics. Cripple medical support to maximize casualties. Cruel and calculated."
Gemma’s mind raced, already visualizing the unfolding threat. Jinx was right. The Tzenkethi weren’t here to make mistakes. They would be ruthless in their objectives.
With a quick inhale, she strode toward the exit of the IGC, her features shifting with uncanny fluidity. In seconds, Gemma was gone, replaced by Anya Petrov, the cold and lethal Russian assassin. Her voice was as sharp as the blade she now held in her hand.
"Ya’Han will deal with the first upper group," she said, her tone devoid of doubt. "The second upper group is ours. We intercept them before they reach Sickbay. Security and MACOs will handle the lower group. Move."
There was no hesitation as she exited the room, her steps quick and purposeful. The echoes of the ship’s red alert klaxon faded into the background, drowned out by the pounding rhythm of her heartbeat. Gemma had failed to stop the Tzenkethi from boarding, but she would not fail again.
The hunt was on.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
=-=
"Fears and Admiration"
Previous post: "A Sphere of Trouble" by David
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 34354.1450
The atmosphere on the ANUBIS bridge was thick with tension, each officer hyper-focused on the task at hand. Jayson Stark sat at his station, eyes darting across the console. The tactical overlay displayed the ship’s interior, marking the intruders’ movements with red blips. There were twelve of them, Tzenkethi, split into four groups. The overlay blinked ominously as forcefields designed to halt their progress failed one by one.
“Twelve Tzenkethi… might as well be a hundred,” Jayson thought grimly, gripping the edges of his console to steady himself. These weren’t ordinary adversaries. Their body armor shrugged off phaser fire as though it were a light breeze. Even their sheer presence exuded menace. Jayson’s training as a Starfleet officer demanded calm and focus, but a cold knot of fear twisted in his stomach. They were almost unstoppable, and now three of them were heading straight for the bridge, climbing up the turbolift shaft as if they were giant alien spiders..
“Keep tracking their movements,” Captain Morningstar ordered, his voice a steady anchor amidst the chaos. He and Commander Shar’El stood near the command chair, coordinating defensive measures and issuing orders to the rest of the ship. Their calm, strategic thinking contrasted sharply with Jayson’s growing anxiety.
“The groups heading for Engineering are approaching junctions 14 and 17,” Jayson reported, his voice betraying none of the panic clawing at the back of his mind. “The others… one group is searching for Sickbay by the look of things, and the last is closing in on us.”
Shar’El nodded, her piercing gaze fixed on the main viewscreen, even though it showed only the empty starfield beyond. “We’ll handle this. Keep us updated.”
Jayson’s hands moved instinctively, trying to reroute power to reinforce the next set of forcefields in the Tzenkethi’s path. It wasn’t enough. They were too strong, too fast, too relentless.
Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Ya’Han, the ship’s Chief of Security, and A’Janni, the FCO, preparing for hand-to-hand combat. Ya’Han’s crimson hair flowed like a war banner as she tightened her grip on a pair of Klingon-style bladed weapons, her movements precise and confident. Jayson couldn’t help but feel a pang of envy. She seemed utterly fearless, ready to face death itself without flinching. How could anyone have such unwavering courage?
Beside her, A’Janni adjusted the claws extending from his gloves, his feline features set in a grim expression of determination. The imposing Caitian radiated raw power, and Jayson felt a flicker of admiration. He was everything Jayson wished he could be in this moment: strong, fearless, and unshakable.
The bridge’s alert klaxons blared louder, pulling Jayson back to his screen. The Tzenkethi were breaching another forcefield. The group heading for the bridge was only two junctions away.
“They’re almost here,” Jayson said, his voice tight.
Captain Morningstar glanced toward him but addressed the entire bridge crew. “We’ve trained for this. Stay focused. Do your duty.”
“Duty,” Jayson repeated silently, trying to find strength in the word. But his thoughts betrayed him. What if they couldn’t stop them? What if the Tzenkethi...?
The hiss of the turbolift doors made his heart leap, but it was only a pair of security officers arriving with additional gear. Jayson’s pulse slowed but only slightly. The real threat was still on its way.
Ya’Han shot him a look, not of reassurance, but of acknowledgment. She knew the stakes just as well as he did, but there was no fear in her eyes. Only resolve.
“We’ve got this,” she said firmly, her voice cutting through the noise and tension. A’Janni nodded in agreement, his claws flexing in anticipation.
Jayson wanted to believe her, to feel the same confidence that seemed to fill her and A’Janni so effortlessly. But as he watched the red blips inch closer on his console, the knot of fear in his stomach only tightened. He wasn’t sure they could stop the Tzenkethi without getting hurt. Or worse.
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant JG A'Janni
Flight Control Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
-=-=-
"Bridge of Blood and Shadows"
Previous post: "Fears and Admiration” by Jayson
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.1500
The doors of the turbolift were pried open with frightening ease, before three towering Tzenkethi stormed into the command center, their imposing presence and sheer aggression an immediate danger. Their leader, a hulking figure wielding a serrated, blood-stained sword-like blade, locked eyes with Lieutenant Ya'Han and smiled.
Her crimson hair marked her transformation, the hue blazing with the fury and determination of her warrior lineage. Dual Mek’Leths in hand, their deadly curves gleaming under the bridge’s flickering lights, There was no turning back, not that the thought, or even the shadow of it, had crossed her mind so Ya’Han prepared for a fight she knew could only end in death.
As the Tzenkethi leader snarled and swung his enormous blade with brutal force, the Sec/Tac dodged, her movements precise yet desperate. The sheer power behind his strikes forced her onto the defensive, each swing aimed to cleave her in two. Sparks flew. Her blades connected, barely holding against the crushing weight of his jagged sword. Eevery block sent a jarring vibration up her arms. Muscles screamed from the relentless pain. There was no room for mistakes. No time to second guess any action. One misstep would mean death
For every ounce of skill and precision she applied, the Tzenkethi responded with raw brutality. The bridge seemed to shrink as the clash grew more intense. Each swing, parry, and counter filled the air with metallic echoes. Ya’Han twisted and flipped, her agility keeping her one step ahead, but she could feel her stamina wane.
A glance across the battlefield revealed the carnage. A’Janni was barely holding his own against another Tzenkethi, his pristine white fur was now smeared with crimson, staining his muscular frame. Every strike he landed came at a cost, his breathing ragged but determined. The battle was one of strength and determination with no room for doubts. Like a gladiator of old, the Caitian roared as he unleashed all of his might against his adversary. His blows were beyond fierce but the giant armored lizard still seemed to hold the upper hand in this conflict.
The third Tzenkethi was locked in combat with Shar’El’s team, the Ullian commander rallying her crew while keeping Captain Morningstar shielded from harm. Despite outnumbering their attacker, Mornigstar and those around him were clearly outmatched as security officer after officer were removed out of the way like ragdolls. The sound of breaking bones echoed through the bridge in a deafening symphony that clearly amused the brute causing it.
The bridge echoed with every clash of metal. The air reeked of blood and burning circuits, the alarms blaring in discord with the grunts and howls of battle.
Returning her focus to her own opponent, Ya’Han launched a flurry of strikes with her Mek’Leths, aiming for the vulnerable joints of his armor. Her blades scraped against his thick plating, some strikes finding flesh, but it wasn’t enough. The Tzenkethi roared, an eruption of rage spurred by the shallow cuts, and countered with a devastating swing. The sheer force of the attack sent Ya’Han sprawling to the floor, one of her Mek’Leths skittering across the deck.
Her crimson hair streaked across her face as she scrambled to her feet, desperation fueling her movements. The Tzenkethi loomed over her, his blood-stained blade poised for the killing blow. Time seemed to slow, her pulse pounding in her ears as the inevitability of defeat loomed. Jayson, in an effort to help, leaped onto the imposing form and held on for only a few seconds before being tossed clear across the bridge, the distraction not enough to stop the inevitable.
And then, Shar’El acted.
The Ullian’s piercing gaze locked onto the Tzenkethi leader as she delved into his mind. Luckily for her, their physical strengths and endurance did not reflect their abilities to deal with her telepathic abilities. Quickly she found vivid images and emotions to latch onto, searing memories that were buried deep within. For the Tzenkethi, the bridge melted away, replaced by the battlefield of his past. Roaring in confusion, he swung wildly at invisible enemies, his focus shattered by the haunting vision.
Seizing the opening, Ya’Han surged to her feet and reclaimed her fallen blade. With a cry of defiance, she unleashed a whirlwind of attacks. Her Mek’Leths struck with ferocious precision, one embedding in the Tzenkethi’s shoulder while the other slashed across his midsection. The massive warrior staggered, dropping his blade as he clutched his wounds.
With one final, calculated strike, Ya’Han drove her blade into his chest, the warrior’s roar of pain silenced as he collapsed to the deck.
The bridge fell silent but for the labored breathing of its defenders. Ya’Han stood over her fallen foe, her crimson hair matted with sweat and her grip on her blades unrelenting. Around her, the aftermath of battle painted a grim picture, A’Janni’s bloodied form, Shar’El’s steady focus wavering as she steadied herself with one knee down, the cost of her mental efforts clear for all to see. Around them were the scattered remains of their enemies, a sight that announced their victory but denied any celebrations.
"Thank you, Commander," Ya'Han said, panting as she rushed to Jayson's side, finding him unconscious but alive. "Without your intervention, none of us would have made it out of this alive," she added as the Nylaan Chief of Security brought the limp body of her lover up against chest while struggling to hold back tears.
"It was the only advantage we had," Shar'El sadly offered, checking on Captain Morningstar to ensure that he was alright. "The others will not be so lucky." The distant sound of explosions rippled through the ship, a grim reminder that the battle was far from over. Victory on the bridge was only a fragment of what still needed to be won... or survived.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
and
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
"When Hope Bleeds, Part 1"
Previous post: "Bridge of Blood and Shadows"
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.1510
The odds of Gemma reaching Sickbay ahead of and without running into the advancing Tzenkethi boarding party were slim, so the ILO improvised. Crawling through the dimly lit Jeffries’ Tubes, the Intelligence Liaison Officer maneuvered silently, avoiding detection and bypassing the most likely routes the attackers would take. When she finally emerged into Sickbay, her uniform bore the signs of her hasty detour, rips, smudges, and the faint metallic tang of electromagnetic discharges.
Inside, the air was tense. Doctor Andersson and Doctor Bruxa stood at the head of a semicircle of medical staff, briefing them on the horrors that awaited. "The Tzenkethi are exceptionally cruel," Andersson warned. "Their methods aren't just about incapacitation, they're designed to make survival as painful as possible."
Bruxa nodded grimly. "We’ll be dealing with burns, severe lacerations, and tissue trauma of a kind many of you may not have encountered before. Stay calm and focused. We can’t afford to make mistakes."
At that moment, Gemma staggered in, drawing the attention of the entire room. Her piercing gaze locked first with Doctor Andersson, then shifted to Ava Noiva, whose expression betrayed both surprise and irritation.
"The Tzenkethi are coming," Gemma announced, her voice sharp and unwavering. "A group of three... vanguard. They've left a trail of bodies behind them, and they’re heading this way."
Gasps and murmurs rippled through the medical staff. Andersson opened his mouth to speak, but Ava Noiva beat him to it.
"We need to secure the patients and evacuate," Ava said firmly, her tone leaving no room for debate. "Our staff is too important to risk. Sickbay must be hidden and shielded if necessary."
Gemma shook her head vehemently. "Hiding won’t work. These Tzenkethi won’t stop at Sickbay. If they don’t find us, they’ll keep going, deck by deck, compartment by compartment, killing everyone in their path. We stand and fight here."
"Fight?" Ava’s voice rose, her frustration evident. "This is a medical facility, not a battlefield. Our duty is to save lives, not take them!"
"And what about the lives of the patients here?" Gemma snapped back, stepping closer to Ava. "What happens to them when the Tzenkethi storm in, unopposed? What happens to the staff if they catch you hiding? This is where we make our stand."
Ava’s eyes narrowed, but the ILO wasn’t finished. Gemma’s gaze locked onto Ava, her voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. “You’re more than you appear to be, Doctor Noiva. Your ‘sisters’ aren’t here for us to see, but their skills are in you. You can deny it all you want, but right now, those skills are the difference between life and death.”
Ava’s fingers tightened on the console, her knuckles white. For a moment, her mask slipped—just enough for Gemma to see the flicker of conflict in her eyes. “My sisters are not here,” Ava said, her voice sharp but quieter now, the edge of control fraying. “And I am not like you. I can’t shrug off wounds or repair myself in seconds. We are healers, not killers.”
Gemma stepped closer, her expression unyielding. “What about them?” she asked, gesturing to the biobeds lined with vulnerable patients. “What happens when those monsters storm in and no one’s here to stop them? Do you think they’ll just leave the wounded alone? You don’t have to like it, but this is where we make our stand.”
Ava’s eyes narrowed, her composure snapping back into place. “We’ll do what’s necessary,” she said coldly, “to protect our ability to save lives. If you want to throw yourself at the Tzenkethi, be my guest. The rest of us will not indulge your recklessness.”
Gemma smirked faintly, leaning back as though conceding the point. “Consequences are tomorrow’s problem. Right now, we survive today.”
Before anyone could respond, Satella stepped forward. “I’ll fight,” she said, her voice steady despite the tension in the room. “On Mikulak, we survived because we made hard choices. I won’t stand by and let these people die when I can do something about it.”
The room fell silent, all eyes on Satella. Even Gemma’s sharp demeanor softened slightly as she nodded. “Then let’s make sure we give them a fighting chance.”
The ILO almost smiled as she nodded to the Mikulak physician, a hint of admiration in her eyes before firing a glare at Noiva. "You want to play defence, then set up whatever force fields you can to make it as difficult for those bloodthirsty brutes to reach Zub, the woman, and the rest of the medical team. Satella and I will do our best to hold them back until backup can reach us."
The sickening sound of metal slicing through flesh on the other side of the doors raised the urgency in the room to a fever pitch. Gemma opened her mouth to order the computer to seal Sickbay, but it was already too late. The reinforced doors buckled with a resounding crash, kicked open just enough to reveal the shadowed figures beyond. The flickering lights cast jagged shadows across the widening gap, hinting at the relentless determination of the Tzenkethi. They wouldn’t stop. Not until they reached their target and tore through everyone in their path.
=-=
Dawn Bohr
Lieutenant Ava Noiva
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
and
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
"When Hope Bleeds, Part 2 "
Previous post: "When Hope Bleeds, Part 1"
Location: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.1520
Sickbay descended into chaos, the shatter of doors giving way to the thunderous roars of the invading Tzenkethi. Their massive forms seemed to block out the light, casting an ominous shadow over the room. Gemma immediately rolled to the side, avoiding a brutal swing of a sharp sword-like blade that embedded itself in the wall where she had just stood. A crimson trail on the weapon made it evident that others had fallen before now, fueling the ILO's resolve to fight with all of her might.
"Computer, initiate a level-10 forcefield at my location!" she barked, just before leaping backwards.
The computer hummed in response, erecting a shimmering barrier between her and the attackers. It bought her mere seconds as the Tzenkethi, massive, hulking figures of muscle and carapace, slammed against the field. The first one’s claws sparked against the barrier as it strained, flickering, but holding, for now.
"Sedative!" Gemma shouted, glancing at Satella.
The doctor, trembling but resolute, loaded a hypo with a cocktail strong enough to drop an enraged T-Rex. She hurled it to Gemma, who caught it mid-dive. Without hesitation, Gemma sprang forward just as the field gave way. Using the hypo like a dagger, she slammed it into the neck of the lead Tzenkethi and triggered the release.
The creature staggered, emitting a guttural roar. For a moment, it seemed to falter, but then it shook off the sedative with terrifying ease. Its eyes locked onto Gemma, burning with a predator’s focus.
“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Gemma muttered, retreating to reevaluate.
"Reptilian anatomy, the Tzenkethi belong to the same general group of races as the Selay, Gorn, Tosk, and Voth," Wimda offered, her voice contained within the ILO's mind. The Uxali scientist was relatively calm as she relayed the information, dealing with the situation as best as she could.
"That's not helping," Yshuni gasped as the ILO dodged another attack, the blade ripping through the loose part of her uniform without making contact with her skin.
"Reptilian means cold-blooded," Shinral said, her form taking over that of Gemma. "Bet you don't like the cold," the Reman bodyguard spat as she located a vial of freezing agent and threw it at the Tzenkethi. It impacted his neck and the liquid quickly spread to cover the arm and part of the scaly chest hiding beneath the armor.
Shinra's smile was short-lived. The stratagem had worked, but there were two others already moving to take his place, with flames of revenge burning in their eyes.
The room's tight quarters turned into a battlefield, every movement a gamble. Gemma hurled equipment, overturned tables, and used whatever she could grab to slow the relentless advance. Her chest heaved with each labored breath, exhaustion creeping into her limbs, yet she fought on with sheer force of will.
"There are not a lot of people on board the ANUBIS who would be able to face these things one-on-one," Jinx muttered.
"Yes, and one of them is unconscious and unable to fight," Sylthia said, looking in Zub's direction as the ILO performed a breathtaking feat of acrobatic marvel.
One Tzenkethi lunged, and Gemma used its momentum against it, flipping the creature into an adjacent stasis pod. Before it could recover, she slammed her palm against the pod’s control panel. The hiss of containment filled the room as the pod sealed shut. Two down.
Or so she thought. A deep, resonating crack split the air, followed by the agonizing screech of reinforced glass giving way. The Tzenkethi emerged, its carapace gleaming with blood and fury, as if mocking her attempt to contain it.
The second attacker closed in, catching her off guard with a sweeping blow that sent her crashing into a console. Pain lanced through her side as she felt something crack, a rib, maybe two. The nanites in her blood immediately surged to repair the damage, but the process wasn’t fast enough. Each new injury slowed her down.
Satella screamed as one of the Tzenkethi overturned a biobed in an attempt to crush her. Gemma threw one of her blades with pinpoint precision, embedding it in the creature’s eye. It roared and staggered but did not fall.
Another forcefield activated just in time to divide the room again, splitting the attackers for a critical moment. Gemma lunged for the third Tzenkethi, engaging in brutal hand-to-hand combat. She twisted and struck with every ounce of her training, her movements fluid and precise despite her injuries. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, she managed to force her second blade into its neck. This time, the creature fell, its body convulsing before going still.
Two down.
Before she could catch her breath, the remaining Tzenkethi slammed into her, driving her back toward the center of the room. The momentum carried them both through a forcefield and onto a biobed, the one where Zub lay unconscious, his body still ravaged by plasma burns. The impact sent sparks and shards flying, slicing through Gemma’s arm. Her blood splattered across Zub’s chest, mingling with his wounds.
Gemma barely registered the mingling of blood as she fought to keep the Tzenkethi’s jaws away from her throat. Her nanites worked furiously to close her wounds, but the relentless assault was taking its toll. She felt her strength waning.
Blow after blow landed against the ILO, the taste of copper filling her mouth as the sounds of bones being crushed filled her ears. Her vision was becoming increasingly blurred but she continued to defend herself, knowing all too well that there was nothing she could do to avoid her demise.
A powerful jab at her jaw sent the ILO flying, landing on the second biobed when the unknown woman she had named Christie lay. Through the blurry vision, Gemma saw Ava looking straight at her, an expression of utter disappointment engraved on her features.
Gemma felt the Tzenkethi take hold of her arm, crushing the humerus with casual ease as he turned his prey to face him. She was beaten, and he wanted to see the smile on his face as he claimed victory over the small annoyance who had made this more interesting than he had expected.
Then, something unexpected happened.
A figure appeared behind the Tzenkethi. At first, she believed it to be the result of her head trauma causing her to have double-vision. Her eyes desperately tried to focus as she raised her arm to offer one last defense against the sharpness of the blade hovering over her. That is when she heard the snapping of bones, like bubbles being popped in rapid succession before the Tzenkethi fell leaving a familiar form standing in his place.
"Zub?" Gemma said as the searing pain of uttering that single word rushed through her lungs. The ILO gazed in disbelief at the Voth, blood still dripping from her wounds. Her mind lingered on her savior, on the impossibility of what she had just witnessed. The truth was like the Tzenkethi, relentless, terrifying, and far from over
“What… what just happened?” Satella stammered, staring at Zub in disbelief.
Gemma, bloodied and barely able to stand, slowly wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. “We’ll figure it out later. First, we need to...”
"You need to stay exactly where you are," Satella said. "I can tell that you have several broken bones, and this without using a medical tricorder. It wasn't easy but you did it Gemma, you did..."
Doctor Bruxa's words caught in her throat as a blade pierced through her chest. The frozen Tzenkethi had thawed and had come to claim revenge for his fallen comrades. The small, silver-haired woman was not the prize he sought, she had just been in his way, and as such he tossed her body clear across Sickbay, landing with a bone-shattering crushing sound.
It was Gemma he wanted, but Zub quickly turned and defended his position. Gemma, too weak to fight, could do nothing else but gaze at the Doctor's broken form, motionless, lifeless.
Seconds passed in a silence that Gemma had never experienced before, every voice in her mind silenced by the sight of the bright young life that had been lost, a beacon of hope swallowed by the darkness and cruelty of the universe.
Soon, Zub returned and delicately cradled Gemma into his arms placing her on the same biobed that he had been on only minutes ago, Gemma's eyes never left the body of young Mekulak woman as the other Doctors and medical staff rushed to the fallen physician's side. The look on their faces said it all... there was nothing they could do... Satella Bruxa was gone.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
=-=
"Aftermath"
Previous post: "When Hope Bleeds, Part 2" by the amazing Rachel
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge -> Captain's Ready Room
Stardate: 44354.1600
The bridge remained eerily quiet despite the occasional beep of consoles and whispers of those present. The tension in the air was palpable, as though the ship itself mourned alongside its crew. Commander Shar’El stood at her station, compiling her report for Captain Morningstar. Her black eyes briefly flicked to the main viewscreen, where the Tzenkethi vessel hovered in the distance, its menacing form motionless at the edge of the sphere.
With a final keystroke, she straightened her battle-torn uniform, inhaling deeply to steady herself. The losses they’d sustained weighed heavily on her shoulders, but as First Officer of the ANUBIS, it was her duty to relay the truth, no matter how painful.
Captain Morningstar’s ready room was dimly lit, the soft glow from the gravitational eddies outside providing an accurate representation of the turmoil within their CO. As Shar’El entered, the Captain looked up, his expression neutral but his eyes reflecting the burden of command.
“Commander,” he acknowledged, motioning for her to sit.
“Captain,” she began, her voice steady but solemn. “The ANUBIS is secure. All intruders have been neutralized. The repairs to the damaged systems are underway, and Sonja is prioritizing internal security systems. The Tzenkethi vessel remains stationary, maintaining its position at the outer edge of the sphere. They’ve made no further attempts to engage.”
Morningstar’s nod was slow, his gaze unfocused as he processed the update.
“Casualties?” he asked, though his tone suggested he already dreaded the answer.
Shar’El’s jaw tightened. “We’ve confirmed 27 fatalities, sir.” She hesitated before continuing, her voice softer. “Doctor Satella Bruxa is among them.”
The Captain’s eyes closed briefly, his composure faltering for a fleeting moment.
“It could have been far worse,” she pressed on gently. “Had Lieutenant Gemma not triggered the intruder alert, forcing most of the crew into safer areas, the number of lives lost could have reached the hundreds, this based on known Tzenkethi boarding tactics and accounts.”
“Gemma saved countless lives,” Morningstar murmured, though there was little solace in his tone.
“Yes, sir. She acted decisively and heroically.” Shar’El paused before adding, “But I suspect she will focus on the one life she could not save.”
Morningstar’s gaze sharpened, and for a long moment, he said nothing. Finally, he spoke, his voice quiet yet resolute. “Doctor Andersson’s report from Sickbay suggests the same. Gemma’s... unique psychology makes this loss particularly difficult.”
“It’s going to be hard for all of us,” Shar’El said, her tone imbued with a rare warmth. “But we’ll find a way through it. Together.” Her words carried an unspoken message, one directed at the man who bore the heaviest burden of them all.
The Captain’s shoulders sagged slightly, and he nodded. “Satella was…” His voice caught. “She was one of the gentlest souls I’ve ever had the privilege to serve with.”
“She was,” Shar’El agreed, her voice a near whisper. “And we’ll honor her memory by continuing to protect each other and the mission she believed in.”
For a moment, silence reigned between them, a shared sorrow binding them as they began to take the first steps toward healing.
Shar’El straightened, knowing her report was complete. As she left the ready room, she carried with her not only the weight of her own grief but also the resolve to see the crew through this dark chapter. They would endure. They always did.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
"The Pain of Loss"
Previous post: "Aftermath” by Tiffany
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Cargo Bay 7
Stardate: 44354.1620
The hum of the ANUBIS’s engines was a distant murmur, a backdrop to the oppressive silence that filled Cargo Bay 7. The stark, metallic walls bore witness to the grim tableau arranged in neat rows before Adriana. Twenty-seven hollowed torpedo pods, repurposed as caskets, lined the space, each marked with a name, a rank, and a story cut tragically short.
Adriana stood motionless, her arms tightly wrapped around herself as if to keep from unraveling. Her breathing came in shallow, uneven gasps, and her legs trembled under the weight of emotions threatening to spill over. The chill of the cargo bay seemed to seep into her very bones, amplifying the hollow ache in her chest. Her gaze slowly, meticulously swept over the rows of caskets, her chest tightening with every passing second. Each name was a dagger to her heart, but one wound hurt more than the others. The plaque on the nearest pod read, “Dr. Satella Bruxa.” The young Mikulak doctor had been a beacon of hope, her vibrant spirit a reminder of what the universe could be at its best. And now, she was gone. Another bright light extinguished in the cold, unfeeling dark.
Adriana’s knees buckled as the weight of it all pressed down on her. She sank to the floor, tears streaming down her face. The enormity of the loss was too much to bear. This wasn’t just a loss for the ANUBIS. It was her loss. Each death carried a piece of her soul, and the thought of continuing without them felt like an unbearable cruelty.
A whisper broke the silence, soft yet unmistakable. “Hermana... Sis... I’m sorry.”
Adriana’s head snapped up, her tear-filled eyes locking onto a familiar figure. Amanda stood at the far end of the bay, her expression heavy with sorrow.
“Sorry?” Adriana’s voice cracked, raw with emotion. She staggered to her feet, fists clenched. “Sorry doesn’t bring them back." The Hispanic Counselor's breath came in short, rapid bursts filled with mounting anger. "Twenty-seven people, Amanda! Twenty-seven lives lost because of you! We came here looking for you, and now they’re dead! How am I supposed to deal with that?" Her arms were flailing over her head. "You say sorry and all is well?”
"I am..." Amanda held herself back, not wanting to use the one word her sister was ferociously holding against her.
"We came here for you!"
Amanda’s face twisted with pain, her voice echoing her sister's raw emotions. “And if you hadn’t come, the death toll could rise to be in the hundreds, maybe thousands. The Tzenkethi won’t stop until they’ve destroyed everything in their path.”
“Why?” Adriana demanded, stepping closer, her voice rising. “Why is this happening? Why are they doing this? And what do you have to do with any of it?”
Amanda’s eyes flickered with something, regret, frustration, fear. “I can’t explain. Not because I don’t want to, but because I don’t know how. I don’t even know what’s real half the time.” She gestured to herself, her movements hesitant, almost dreamlike. “Being here with you feels like a dream. I know it’s not, but it’s how it feels.”
Adriana’s anger faltered, replaced by confusion. “What are you talking about?”
“When I’m not here, with you,” Amanda began, her voice trembling, “I’m somewhere else. It’s dark, and it’s empty. I don’t know how I’m surviving, but I am. It's like trying to find my way out of a maze. Or at least I was surviving. Since the Tzenkethi came, it’s… different. The void isn’t just dark anymore. It’s filled with terrified whispers, cries for help from countless others just out of reach of my consciousness, but they are there none-the-less. I don’t understand what’s happening, but I know it’s them. The Tzenkethi are behind this. Somehow.”
Adriana stared at her sister, her mind a whirlwind of emotions. Amanda’s words were cryptic, yet they carried a gravity that was impossible to ignore. The fury that had fueled her moments ago gave way to a deep, gnawing ache. She stepped closer, her voice softer now. “Amanda… what’s happening to you?”
Amanda shook her head, her expression anguished. “I don’t know. But I’m afraid, Adriana. For me. For you. For all of us.”
The sisters stood in silence, the weight of their shared grief and uncertainty hanging heavy in the air. Around them, the caskets bore silent witness to their pain, an unpleasant and painful reminder of the cost of their journey and the dangers that still lay ahead. A journey they would continue together, as it had always been meant to be.
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
---
"The Impossible Question"
(Previous Post: "The Pain of Loss")
---
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 1, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.1630
Lieutenant Commander Maya stood near the rear of the bridge, her slender frame barely visible as she lingered by the turbolift. It wasn’t her usual domain, far from it. The Chief Science Officer rarely ventured beyond the haven of her laboratories, Astrophysics and Stellar Cartography, where data flowed freely and variables obeyed the predictable laws of science. But today, the bridge buzzed with an uneasy energy, fueled by the giant, moon-sized sphere displayed prominently on the viewscreen, and the presence of the Chief Science Officer had caught more than a few curious glances.
The Shillian did not mind the attention. It was not their glances that weighed her down, after all. It was the absence of one who had once stood among them, the loss of Doctor Satella Bruxa. Even though the two rarely worked together, Maya could not help but feel the absence of the Mikulak doctor, the void left by her death extending far beyond the confines of the ANUBIS.
“Commander Shar’El,” The voice of Captain Morningstar broke the tension as he stepped out of his Ready Room. “Status report.”
Maya shifted her gaze from the screen to the first officer, her focus momentarily diverted. The Ullian woman’s dark eyes locked with hers, and in that brief exchange, Maya knew that Shar’El had seen it -- the sadness she carried, raw and unspoken.
“Captain, everything is status quo. Repairs are progressing on schedule,” Shar’El replied crisply before turning to the science officer. “Lieutenant Commander, perhaps you and I should speak privately.”
Before Maya could formulate a protest, the First Officer gestured towards the Observation Lounge.
---
Location: USS ANUBIS, Deck 1, Observation Lounge
Stardate: 44354.1632
Maya stood by the panoramic windows, her gaze fixed on the swirling gravimetric distortions outside. For once, she found no solace in the intricate dance of stellar phenomena.
“If it had not been for the intruder alert,” she began, her voice barely above a whisper, “I would have been completely oblivious as to what was happening. I was... I was locked in Stellar Cartography, lost in my calculations. By the time I realized the danger, it was too late. Satella was gone.”
Her voice cracked on the last word, and she turned away, clutching the edge of the window seal for support. Shar’El approached, her tone gentle but firm.
“You can’t blame yourself, Maya. We all have our roles to play. Satella knew that as well as anyone.”
Maya let out a bitter laugh. “Roles. Yes. Mine is to analyze data, to theorize about ancient civilizations and the mysteries of the cosmos. Hers was to save lives. And now she is...” She broke off, unable to finish the thought. "Why? Why her?"
Shar’El placed a hand on her shoulder, grounding her. “Maya, what happened to Satella was tragic. But we’re not in the business of dwelling on what-ifs. Right now, this crew needs you to focus on the sphere and the Tzenkethi. Whatever that object is, it’s an immediate threat, not just to us but potentially to the entire sector. We need to understand it, and that means we need you.”
Maya turned to face her, her deep almost black eyes glistening with unshed tears. “You’re right, of course. I cannot bring her back, none of us can, but perhaps I can honour her by doing what I do best.” Her voice steadied, the weight of her grief shifting as she refocused her thoughts. “That sphere does not conform to any known astrophysical models. It defies logic. But maybe... just maybe, there is a pattern we have missed. Something that connects it to the Tzenkethi and their presence here.”
Shar’El offered a small, encouraging smile. “That’s the Maya I know. Start with what you can do now. We’ll face the rest together.”
Maya nodded, a spark of determination igniting within her. She wasn’t sure she could forgive herself for Satella’s death, but she could channel her sorrow into purpose. And perhaps, in unraveling the mystery of the sphere, she could help ensure no other lives were lost.
With a final glance at the swirling void beyond the windows, she straightened her shoulders and followed Shar’El back to the bridge.
---
Jessica Solarik
Lieutenant Commander Maya
Chief Science Officer
USS ANUBIS
"To see the world in a grain of sand,
and a heaven in a wild flower.
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
and eternity in an hour."
- William Blake (British, 1757-1827)
=-=
"A Shared Moment"
Previous post: "The Impossible Question"
Location: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.1640
Gemma lay motionless on the biobed, the nanites within her working feverishly to mend shattered bones and torn muscle. Despite the hum of medical equipment and the frantic movements of the remaining doctors, her world had narrowed to a single haunting image -- the blade piercing through Satella’s chest.
“You should have seen it coming,” Jinx growled, the Bounty Hunter's voice sharp and accusing. “The signs were there. We could’ve taken the fight to them differently, kept her safe.”
“Hindsight is as useful as a warp engine in a gravity well,” Shinral countered, the Remen Bodyguard's tone cold and pragmatic. “The battle was chaotic, and she wasn’t a combatant. The Tzenkethi would’ve found their mark regardless.”
“That’s a convenient excuse!” Anya snapped, her Russian accent as thick as ever. “You’re supposed to protect the weak. Isn’t that what we’re here for? Instead, we failed. She trusted us, and we...”
“Enough!” Gemma’s voice lashed out within the cacophony of her mind, silencing the arguing voices for a moment. Yet, the silence was short-lived.
“Her hand,” Wimda interjected softly, her words trembling. “Did anyone notice? Her hand reached for you, Gemma. She wasn’t just speaking; she was reaching, like she needed you to see her, to remember her…”
“Her eyes,” murmured Yshuni, the sorrow of the Kotakian woman palpable. “The light left them too quickly. It was… wrong. She deserved better.”
Gemma’s fists clenched, her healing body protesting the movement. The voices in her head clashed again, debating tactics, assigning blame, and obsessing over details of Satella’s final moments. Yet, amid the storm of arguments, one voice broke through, a quiet, mournful whisper.
“We weren’t fast enough,” Finnja lamented, her grief echoing through Gemma’s fractured psyche. “No battle strategy or strength changes that.”
Gemma’s lips parted, her voice barely audible over the noise around her. “I saw her fall... and I couldn’t stop it.” A single tear rolled down her cheek as her eyes stared blankly at the ceiling, her mind replaying the scene over and over.
As the nanites continued their work, Gemma remained still, locked in an endless war -- not with the Tzenkethi this time, but with herself.
=-=
The MCO LTJG Enel sat up on his biobed. He found himself to be in the center of a sea of softly beeping biobeds all occupied with the wounded, most asleep. He peered across them to Gemma’s bed.
A female voice on the opposite side of him said, “Sir, Dr. Andersson left strict orders for you to lay still and heal.”
Zub swung his golden-eyed gaze around to look down at a young, owl-eyed Bajoran nurse. She swallowed. The gulp made her Adam’s apple bob into view and vanish. Her voice held te barest of a tremor. “You promised to obey her, sir. Do you remember promising that, sir?”
The heavily bandage 7-foot-tall Voth recognized she might be intimidated by his sheer size so he tried to keep his deep voice soft. “I want to make a quick bedside visit. Dr. Andersson also said I was healing unusually quickly.”
The nurse set her face with determination, “Yes, she did say that. Then she said you were to lay still, sir.”
The hulking lizard man raised his crested eyebrows. He smiled at this persistent little caregiver. He gestured with a bandaged three-fingered hand. “Lt. Gemma is upset….”
“We all are. I was on Dr. Bruxa’s staff.” The young nurse’s face twisted. She blinked rapidly several times. No tears came, but her eyes reddened.
“Ah,” Zub Enel said gently. “Dr. Bruxa was an excellent healer. If you were with her, then I am certain I am receiving the best possible care.”
“This best possible care is reminding you, sir, to lay back and heal.”
Zub looked over at Gemma. A line of moisture glinted from the corner of her eye to the sheets. He felt sure she was suffering self-recriminations from the fight and debating her part in it. He blinked once. Surprised, he realized he was not making an intellectual assessment. He felt her recriminations. She seethed with confusion, anger and guilt.
Gemma’s head turned toward him. Her blue eyes locked on his. He smiled and tapped his chest with a three-clawed hand, hoping that signaled he was with her emotionally.
“Sir?” the nurse said, her tone reminding.
Zub held Gemma’s gaze for another moment, then broke it. “Alright,” he said quietly. He lay back. He still felt a strong connection to Gemma’s emotions. Gemma so very rarely showed any. Her nanites maintained her inscrutable expression. Still, this time, he was certain he not only saw but felt her turmoil. He lay back and puzzled this new insight.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
And
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
“It was the first honest emotional connection I'd had in a while. So I immediately panicked and had to leave.”
- Candace Bushnell
-=-=-
"Returning to Duty"
Previous post: "A Shared Moment” by David
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Turbolift -> Bridge
Stardate: 44354.1650
The weight of recent events lingered heavily in the minds of Lieutenant Ya'Han and Lieutenant Stark as the turbolift silently carried them toward the bridge. After a hurried check-up by Dr. Sofia Andersson in Sickbay, they were cleared to return to duty, though neither felt entirely ready for the demands awaiting them.
Ya'Han leaned against the wall of the lift, her black hair with red streaks cascading over her shoulders while her gaze focused ahead yet distant. The dull ache from her injuries, minor as they were, was nothing compared to the emotional toll she carried. Losing Dr. Bruxa had shaken the crew profoundly, and though her warrior training allowed her to compartmentalize pain, Ya'Han was not immune to grief. She straightened her posture, the red streaks in her hair a visible declaration of her readiness to stand strong despite the turmoil inside.
Beside her, Jayson shifted uncomfortably, his hands fidgeting at his sides. His thoughts were a storm of regret and frustration. While the crew fought valiantly to defend the bridge, he had been helplessly distant, confined by circumstance rather than lack of will. The words to express his guilt sat heavy on his tongue, but every time he glanced at Ya'Han, they caught in his throat.
Both attempted to break the silence, but each time their words faltered, replaced by introspection. Ya'Han thought of her actions during the battle, analyzing every movement with a level of self-critique that only added to the weight on her shoulders. Jayson, meanwhile, tried to muster the courage to speak, his guilt compounding each time the scene on the bridge replayed in his mind, the chaos, the loss of Dr. Bruxa, and his absence from the fight. Even the thought that joining the fray could have left him sharing Dr. Bruxa’s fate did little to ease the OPS Officer’s guilt over his inaction.
“I...” Jayson began, his voice breaking the silence like a soft ripple across still water. Ya'Han turned to him, her dark eyes softening with concern, but before she could respond, the turbolift doors hissed open, exposing the controlled chaos of the bridge.
The sound of A'Janni’s calm yet urgent voice filled the room. “Captain, the Tzenkethi ship is moving. It’s heading directly toward the sphere. By the looks of it, it intends to go inside the lattice structure."
The two officers exchanged a brief, knowing glance and hurried to their respective stations, their personal thoughts pushed aside by the demands of duty. Ya'Han took her place at the Tactical console, her posture firm despite the lingering soreness in her muscles. She began assessing the situation, eyes scanning the readouts with practiced efficiency.
Jayson moved toward the OPS station, his earlier unease seemingly pushed down in favor of focusing on the immediate task. But as he stepped into place, his movements faltered. His hand clutched the edge of the console for balance as his face twisted in confusion and pain. Before anyone could react, his legs gave way, and he crumpled to the ground, unconscious.
A sharp gasp broke the air as Ya'Han and others turned toward him in alarm. Ya'Han was at Jayson's side in an instant screaming his name, her Tactical instincts momentarily overtaken by her worry for the man she loved. All efforts to awaken him failed, leaving the limp form of the man hanging in her hands and arms.
"What happened?" Shar'El demanded, moving swiftly to Ya'Han's side as she peered down at the unconscious man. "Is he injured?"
"Doctor Andersson just gave him a clean bill of health," Ya'Han’s voice trembled as she explained, "He was fine... he just won’t wake up."
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
and
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant JG A'Janni
Flight Control Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
=-=
"When a People Fall"
Previous post: "Returning to Duty" by the dynamic duo of Hanali and Jayson
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.1655
Commander Shar'El’s sharp gaze darted across the bridge of the USS ANUBIS, her eyes scanning the dimly lit consoles and the tense faces of the crew. The muted hum of the ship’s systems provided an eerie backdrop to the unsettling silence that hung in the air. The unsettling stillness surrounding Jayson Stark’s slumped form weighed heavily on the bridge staff, especially Ya'Han. He had been the first to collapse, and now, as reports of unconscious officers continued to pour in, the mystery deepened.
Shar’El moved with urgency, her steps brisk as she approached Captain Morningstar’s chair. Normally commanding and alert, the Captain was known for his unwavering presence, which made his stillness now all the more jarring. “Captain,” she began, her voice steady but concerned. When he didn’t respond, she leaned closer. A pang of alarm shot through her as she noticed his unusually still posture and closed eyes.
“Captain Morningstar?” she repeated, her tone more insistent. Still no response. Her hand instinctively reached for her tricorder, the device’s faint hum breaking the uneasy quiet. The scan results were immediate and disconcerting... his brainwave activity was at a bare minimum, just like Stark’s.
“Morningstar is unconscious,” Shar’El announced grimly, turning to face the rest of the bridge crew. Her announcement triggered a flurry of activity.
Reports from all over the ship flooded in, each more troubling than the last. Crew members were being found unconscious in various locations, quarters, corridors, engineering, sickbay. The common thread linking them was still unclear, but the sheer number of affected personnel was alarming.
Ani, the ship’s Avatar, purposefully stepped on the bridge, her expression unusually serious. “Commander,” she began without preamble, “I have been monitoring the reports. Chief Engineer Sonja and Chief Medical Officer Sofia Andersson are among those affected. Their conditions mirror what you’ve observed here.”
Shar’El’s eyes narrowed, her mind racing. She turned to Ya’Han and A’Janni, who had gathered nearby. “We need to determine the cause and if there’s a pattern,” she said, her tone firm.
Ya’Han nodded. “Could it be a targeted attack? A contagion?”
“Unlikely to be a contagion,” A’Janni countered, his furred ears twitching. “The onset was too sudden and widespread.”
Shar’El’s thoughts aligned with A’Janni’s assessment. Her gaze shifted to ANi. “Perform a shipwide sensor sweep. Look for any anomalies, biological, environmental, or otherwise.”
“Understood,” ANi replied, her facial expression as well as her body becoming completely motionless, as if time around her had stopped. Seconds later, she returned to life, her expression one of confusion mixed with curiosity. “The sensor sweep is complete. I’ve identified a potential anomaly. While most affected crew members are Terrans, not all Terrans aboard the ship are unconscious. Adriana Lopez, Ava Noiva, and Brooke Noiva are awake.”
The revelation sent a ripple of surprise through the group. Shar’El’s brow furrowed. “Where are they now?”
ANi responded promptly. “Adriana Lopez is in her office. Ava Noiva is in Sickbay with Gemma and Zub, and Brooke Noiva is in her quarters.”
Shar’El exchanged a glance with Ya’Han and A’Janni. “That’s… unexpected,” Ya’Han said cautiously.
“It complicates our working theory,” A’Janni added.
Shar’El’s expression hardened with resolve. “Agreed, but it also gives us a place to start. Those who remain unaffected might hold the key to understanding this phenomenon, whether it’s something inherent to them or their environment. Let’s focus on them and see what we can uncover. We need to find out what’s protecting them and if it can help the others.”
As the bridge settled into a determined quiet, Shar’El couldn’t shake the growing sense that this mystery was far more intricate than it seemed as she turned her gaze onto the main viewscreen, where the Tzenkethi vessel vanished into the swirling, enigmatic sphere. The sphere pulsed faintly, its metal-like lattice surface shimmering with an almost organic texture, as though it were alive. The vessel's gradual disappearance into its depths raised unsettling questions, was it retreating to safety or triggering something far more sinister? The fact that only certain Terrans were immune hinted at layers yet to be uncovered. Whatever the cause, she was determined to unravel it before the situation escalated further.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
"The Terran Enigma"
Previous post: "When a People Fall"
Location: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.1710
The scene in Sickbay was tense, the weight of the unexplained event pressing heavily on those still standing. Following the Tzenkethi's boarding assault, the area had become a focal point for many, their emotions still very much engraved in the surrounding walls. Sofia Andersson lay unconscious on a biobed, her readings stable but unresponsive, just like the majority of the USS ANUBIS crew. Ava Noiva’s calm demeanor contrasted sharply with the storm brewing in Gemma’s expression as she paced like a predator sizing up its prey. Lieutenant Adriana Lopez sat at the edge of another biobed, her focus shifting between the faint visage of her twin sister Amanda and the discussion unraveling around her.
"We need answers, not accusations," Ava said, her voice steady. She adjusted the display to show the neural scans she’d been analyzing. “This mass unconsciousness affects all Terrans on board, except for us three. If we can isolate the cause, we might be able to wake them up."
Gemma’s lip curled as she stared Ava down. "Us? You’re conveniently immune to this, and so is your sister, wherever she is. How terribly coincidental for a supposed Terran."
Zub’s ever-watchful presence loomed nearby, his scales twitching subtly as he monitored the interaction.
“Gemma, this isn’t helping,” Adriana interjected, her tone sharp but wavering as Amanda whispered in her ear. “I... I think the Tzenkethi are behind this. I can’t explain it, but Amanda seems to think so too.”
Gemma rounded on her, her expression shifting as Shinral's calculating voice emerged. "Convenient. Blame the Tzenkethi based on an imaginary friend."
Adriana’s jaw tightened. “She’s not imaginary, and she’s been right before. Something about their energy patterns matches what we’ve seen in the anomaly."
Ava stepped forward, inserting herself between the two. "The Tzenkethi theory can’t be dismissed, but we need to focus on the immediate problem: identifying why this knocked out Terrans. If we can’t defend against it, we’re sitting ducks."
Gemma’s voice shifted again, now the acidic tone of Abrasivnyy cutting through. "Nice deflection. How about you explain why you and your sister are awake while the rest of the crew, all other Terrans, are out cold? Where’s Brooke, anyway? Hiding from scrutiny?"
“She’s in Engineering,” Ava replied without missing a beat. “And for your information, our mother underwent Dinaali fertility treatments. It’s possible the procedure altered our genetic makeup just enough to make us immune.”
Gemma’s sneer deepened, as her hair turned to a deep red. The shift to Jinx’s fiery personality was beyond palpable. "Convenient excuse. Doesn’t explain Lopez. Or maybe you’re just lying."
Adriana raised her hands defensively. “My twin sister’s connection to me might be why I’m awake. She’s part of that anomaly, I’m sure of it. I was not before, but I am now."
Gemma’s frustration boiled over, her body coiling to strike. But Zub moved faster than anyone expected, his strong hand clasping her fist in mid-swing. His voice was low but commanding. “Stop. This isn’t the time."
Gemma glared at him, the flicker of yet another persona, Anya's cold, calculated calm, crossing her face. "You knew what I was about to do. How?"
Zub didn’t answer directly, his scales twitching as he met her gaze evenly. "Focus on the mission."
Ava adjusted the display again, directing everyone’s attention. “If Adriana’s right and the Tzenkethi are involved, we need to figure out how their technology or energy weapon is targeting Terrans. Gemma, your nanites might offer insight. If they’re monitoring your brainwaves, they could provide a clue."
Gemma narrowed her eyes but didn’t argue, a hint of Wimdalli’s curiosity overtaking her suspicion. “Fine. But I’m not letting this go. One wrong move, and you’ll regret it.”
“Noted,” Ava said calmly, returning her attention to the scans.
Adriana’s gaze drifted to Amanda, who remained silent, the twin sister reflecting on something that seemed to stretch well beyond the limits of the ANUBIS. “What are you thinking?" The Counselor asked of her sister, the form once believed to be nothing but a hallucination now being looked upon as a person of flesh and blood that only she could hear or see.
"I'm not sure how to explain it," Amanda said with a sigh, shifting her gaze to the others. "The Tzenkethi are responsible for this, that I know, but it is not them who did this. They are the cause, not the effect," the twin sister paused and turned to look straight at her sister. "I am sorry sis, I can't be of more help. Like so many times before, I know things that I should not, but I have no explanation as to how or why. I know that, somehow, I am involved in all of this mess and that I am not alone, far from it. I constantly hear countless whispered voices when I am not here with you, and they feel so close, yet their voices feel distant, like echoes across a vast universe. I'm not even sure what it is I am trying to say to you Adriana, other I need your help more than ever before... we all do."
=-=
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
and
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
---
"Spherical Mystery"
(Previous Post: "The Terran Enigma")
---
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 13, Stellar Cartography
Stardate: 44354.1715
Lieutenant Commander Maya sat amidst the holographic projections of Stellar Cartography, her mind racing to decipher the enigma before her. The lattice structure, vast and imposing, dominated the central display. Its intricate geometry suggested a purpose beyond mere aesthetics, but the pervasive gravimetric distortions rendered most sensor data unreliable. Gravimetric fields, which exert gravitational-like forces, are notoriously disruptive to standard sensor arrays.
The Shillian took a moment and closed her eyes. She had been looking at all this data so long that her mind could no longer properly process any of it. Granted, the attack on the ANUBIS, the death of Doctor Bruxa and now the unexplained mass unconsciousness of the Terrans onboard did not help focus her thoughts.
"I need a fresh start," Maya began, her voice steady, "Computer, enhance the visual feed of the lattice structure. Apply adaptive filtering algorithms to compensate for gravimetric interference."
The computer acknowledged, and the holographic image sharpened incrementally. While still imperfect, the enhanced visuals revealed sporadic bursts of light emanating from within the structure. Maya's eyes narrowed as she observed the patterns.
"Computer, isolate and magnify the energy discharges," she mused aloud. Within seconds the holographic image changed to reflect the request leaving the Chief Science Officer with more questions. "Could those flashes be some sort of visual gravimetric effect?"
Although the question had been meant to help her own thinking process, the computer offered an answer. =/\= Unable to analyze due to the gravimetric distortion and interference from the structural composition of the sphere. =/\=
Maya narrowed her eyes in part out of frustration and in part in an attempt to maybe see something hiding in the image. "Computer, using all available visual records, compare those bursts of lights and offer the most likely cause for them."
Following a few beeps and chimes, the computer reported its findings. =/\= There are no perfect matches, but the regular pattern would indicate an artificial source. =/\=
The Shillian nodded in agreement. "I was thinking the same thing. Now, unless a pulsar anomaly had somehow formed within the sphere, the odds are more in line with those flashes being indicative of weapons fire. Perhaps a conflict within the structure?"
She accessed the ship's database, cross-referencing known energy signatures. The Tzenkethi, a reptilian species with a history of aggression, were known to employ gravimetric weaponry, such as gravimetric torpedoes that utilized advanced graviton inversion fields to cause structural damage.
"Computer, analyze the energy bursts' signatures and compare them to known Tzenkethi weapon profiles."
=/\= Analysis complete, =/\= the computer responded. =/\= The energy signatures based on the amplitude of the bursts of light do exhibit characteristics consistent with Tzenkethi gravimetric weaponry. =/\=
Maya's mind raced. If the Tzenkethi were engaged in combat within the structure, it could explain the energy discharges. However, the simultaneous incapacitation of all Terran crew members, save for Adriana Lopez and the Noiva sisters, suggested a more complex scenario.
"Could the lattice structure be amplifying the gravimetric distortions?" she pondered. "Gravimetric distortions are known to pose dangers to spacecraft by trapping them and exposing them to high levels of gravimetric shear."
She considered the possibility of a gravimetric field generator within the structure, capable of emitting targeted pulses. Such technology could incapacitate specific biological signatures, explaining the selective unconsciousness among the crew.
"Computer, is there any record of gravimetric fields affecting humanoid neurology?"
=/\= Affirmative, =/\= the computer replied. =/\= Exposure to intense gravimetric fields has been documented to cause neurological disruptions in certain species. =/\=
Maya's thoughts turned to the Noiva sisters and Adriana Lopez. Their immunity to the effects could be due to unique neurological traits or prior conditioning. Adriana's link to her sister Amanda, for instance, might offer some form of neural resilience. Still, it failed to account for the fact that only Terrans had been affected leaving everyone else on the ANUBIS, including herself, unaffected.
"Speculation," she reminded herself. "Focus on the data."
She redirected her attention to the energy discharges. If a battle was indeed taking place within the structure, the ANUBIS needed to intervene. The Tzenkethi's presence and their potential hostility posed a direct threat.
"Computer, estimate the risk of navigating the ANUBIS into the lattice structure, considering the current gravimetric distortions."
=/\= The risk is high, =/\= the computer stated. =/\= Gravimetric distortions could compromise structural integrity and navigation systems. =/\=
Maya frowned. Entering the structure was fraught with danger, but remaining passive could be equally perilous. The energy discharges, consistent with Tzenkethi weaponry, indicated active hostilities. If the Tzenkethi were engaged in combat within the structure, the ANUBIS had a duty to investigate and, if necessary, intervene. The fact that the Tzenkethi vessel had safely maneuvered inside the sphere gave the Shillian a renewed sense of hope that her suggestion would not be as dangerous as initially believed.
"Commander Shar'El needs to be informed," Maya decided. "The potential threat level has escalated."
She tapped her communicator. "Lieutenant Commander Maya to Commander Shar'El."
=/\= Shar'El here, =/\= came the prompt reply.
"Commander, I've detected energy discharges within the lattice structure consistent with Tzenkethi gravimetric weaponry. Coupled with the selective incapacitation of our crew, I recommend we consider the possibility of hostile activity within the structure."
There was a brief pause. =/\= Understood, Maya. Prepare a detailed report and meet me on the bridge. We need to assess our options carefully. =/\=
"Acknowledged. Maya out."
As she compiled her findings, Maya couldn't shake the feeling that they were on the cusp of uncovering a significant threat. The lattice structure, the Tzenkethi presence, and the crew's mysterious affliction were pieces of a puzzle that, once assembled, could have far-reaching implications.
"One step at a time," she reminded herself, focusing on the task at hand.
---
Jessica Solarik
Lieutenant Commander Maya
Chief Science Officer
USS ANUBIS
"To see the world in a grain of sand,
and a heaven in a wild flower.
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
and eternity in an hour."
- William Blake (British, 1757-1827)
##########
"A Dream Beyond Dreams"
Previous post: "Spherical Mystery" by Jessica
##########
"Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one."
-- Albert Einstein
Setting: Dreamscape
Stardate: Unknown
The last thing the Native American remembered was being on the bridge of the ANUBIS, monitoring the gravimetric distortions that made the ALPHA-KRAILIN SECTOR so treacherous to navigate. Erik could not remember what happened next or how he had managed to get here... wherever here was. It felt like a dream, the disorientation was genuine, and yet the sensations of touch and smell were unmistakable. There was nothing around him, as if he stood in the middle of an untouched canvas. Every fiber of his being screamed danger – a primal instinct that transcended conscious thought, demanding survival above all else.
The void shimmered like heat waves rising from summer-baked earth, and reality crystallized around him with jarring suddenness. Through the chaos, a whispered voice reached him – familiar, maddeningly familiar – but the identity slipped away like water through his fingers. The acrid smell of cordite and burning metal assaulted his nostrils as his hands gripped the cold steel of the anti-aircraft gun's controls. His heart pounded with the certainty that every second could be his last. The weapon's housing felt ancient, all riveted metal and crude mechanical systems, yet when he squeezed the triggers, brilliant azure energy bolts erupted from the twin barrels. The dissonance between what his eyes saw and what his hands controlled sent a chill down his spine, reminiscent of his ancestors' stories about walking between worlds.
Shapes screamed across the dark sky above – aircraft of some kind, but their silhouettes seemed to shift and blur every time he tried to focus on them, like trying to remember a face from a dream within a dream. "Captain... where are we?" the whisper came again, a voice he knew he should recognize, should trust -- a woman who was liked to his ship. The thought was forced out of his mind as his muscles moved with practiced efficiency he knew he shouldn't possess, tracking and firing at the phantom targets. Each heartbeat brought another threat, another moment where survival hung by a thread. The explosions tore holes in the very fabric of reality itself, the edges of the blasts pixelating like a corrupted computer display before smoothing back into the darkness. The air itself tasted of ozone and desperation.
"This isn't real," Erik muttered through clenched teeth, even as his body continued to respond to the threats above, driven by the overwhelming need to survive. His words were swept away by the howling wind and the thunderous report of his weapon. Through the cacophony, he heard it again – "Sir, can you hear me?" – the voice of his Operations Officer, Lt. Jayson Stark, yet somehow Erik couldn't quite grasp why he knew that voice so well. The gun's housing shuddered beneath his grip, the vibrations feeling simultaneously too harsh and not quite solid enough, like holding onto a ghost made of steel and lightning.
Without warning, everything went white. The sensation of his body dissolved into the brilliant nothingness, leaving only his consciousness floating in the void – and that persistent, maddening certainty that his life hung in the balance. Time became meaningless – it could have been seconds or hours before sensation returned, like being born again into another impossible moment of combat.
He found himself strapped into the cockpit of what appeared to be some kind of fighter craft, the same life-or-death urgency coursing through his veins. Through the static of his communications system, fragments of voices reached him – one distinctly Doctor Andersson's, though Erik couldn't remember why that should matter. The controls beneath his fingers were a bizarre hybrid – toggle switches and analog gauges that belonged in a World War II aircraft, alongside holographic displays and a targeting system that painted quantum-locked solutions directly into his field of vision. His hands danced across the controls as if they belonged to someone else, someone who knew exactly how to pilot this impossible machine, someone fighting with everything they had to stay alive.
The sky around him was filled with dogfighting aircraft, their energy weapons painting deadly patterns through the clouds like neural networks coming alive. The chaos reminded him of the gravitational eddies of the ALPHA-KRAILIN SECTOR, the way space itself seemed to twist and dance in impossible ways. Erik's craft responded to his every input with impossible precision, rolling and diving through the chaos as his pulse cannons spat death at the undefined enemies that seemed to materialize from nowhere. Each maneuver was born not of choice but necessity – the raw imperative to survive driving every action.
His rational mind screamed that none of this could be real, that he needed to wake up, to find his way back to the ANUBIS. But reality – if this could be called that – remained stubbornly persistent. "Captain... gravitational distortions... increasing..." Stark's voice faded in and out like a badly tuned comm signal, the familiarity of it tugging at Erik's memory even as it slipped away. The threat of death felt overwhelmingly real, each near-miss sending surges of adrenaline through his system. Whatever force had trapped him here seemed content to let him experience the full spectrum of combat fear while denying him any agency beyond fighting for survival. Part of him wondered if this was how his ancestors felt during their vision quests, trapped between worlds of reality and spirit, fighting battles beyond ordinary understanding.
As his craft spiraled through another impossible maneuver, Erik caught a glimpse of something in the clouds – a geometric pattern that seemed eerily familiar, its latticed structure reflecting the same impossible mathematics he'd seen just before... before what? The memory slipped away like smoke through his fingers as another enemy fighter demanded his attention, its form shifting between modern and ancient with each passing second. In that moment, Erik realized that perhaps the greatest terror wasn't the combat itself, but the growing suspicion that these weren't random hallucinations at all, but messages coded in the language of combat and fear – if only he could understand their meaning.
The white void returned, and then...
Commander Shar'El blinked rapidly, her Ullian senses reeling from the cascade of images that had just flooded her mind. She had only meant to check on the Captain's condition with a cursory glance, but what she had glimpsed... The intensity of his experience lingered in her consciousness like an afterimage burned into sensor readings. The fear, the desperate fight for survival, the strange mechanical hybrid of past and future technology – it all felt as real to her as the bridge of the ANUBIS beneath her feet.
Her gaze drifted back to the main viewscreen, where the mysterious latticed sphere hung against the backdrop of space, its form distorted by the gravitational eddies of the ALPHA-KRAILIN SECTOR. The structure's geometric patterns seemed to pulse with an almost imperceptible rhythm, like a heartbeat just below the threshold of detection. A chill ran down her spine as she recognized elements of what she'd seen in the Captain's mind reflected in the sphere's architecture. Whatever this structure was, it wasn't just affecting the crew – it was interacting with them, using their own experiences for some unspecified purpose.
The question was... did this have anything to do with the Tzenkethi?
--==(/\)==--
Francois Charette
Captain Erik Morningstar
Commanding Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
--
"I used to think it was awful that life was so unfair. Then I thought, wouldn't it be much worse if life were fair and all the terrible things that happen to us come because we actually deserve them. So now I take great comfort in the general hostility and unfairness of the universe."
- Marcus Cole, Babylon 5
=-=
"Mind and Soul"
Previous post: "A Dream Beyond Dreams" by the very awake Francois
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.1715
Commander Shar'El blinked rapidly, her mind still reeling from the images she’d pulled from Captain Morningstar’s memories. She knew better than to delve deeply, but what she had seen left little choice. The strange, mechanical hybrid of technologies, the relentless battle against unseen forces, it was all too vivid, too coherent to be mere dreams or random memories. And now, that ominous sphere on the viewscreen seemed almost to mock her, its rhythmic pulses threatening to pull the crew further into its grasp.
But she needed more than the Captain’s fragmented experiences. If there was a connection between this enigmatic structure and the Tzenkethi, she needed to understand it. Glancing toward Lieutenant Ya'Han, Shar’El noticed the concern etched into the security chief’s expression as her focus shifted between the sphere and Jayson Stark, whose usual spark seemed dimmed.
Shar'El stepped to Jayson’s side, speaking softly, “Ya'Han, I need to check on him.” Placing a light hand on his shoulder, she let her Ullian senses reach out, cautious yet purposeful.
The rush of images came as sharply as before: a chaotic battle fought with strange amalgamations of old and futuristic technology; an overwhelming surge of fear and determination; and that same instinctive need to survive at all costs. But Jayson’s memories offered a different angle. Where Erik’s perspective had shown tactics and control, Jayson’s was raw and visceral. He felt every pulse of adrenaline, every jolt of pain, as though the fight had been his own.
The connection broke abruptly, leaving Shar'El momentarily unsteady. This wasn’t just affecting the Captain or Jayson. The sphere was manipulating them, using them, but to what end?
“Counselor Lopez, report to the bridge immediately,” Shar'El ordered, her voice calm but firm. If anyone could help make sense of this, it was Adriana, or more accurately, her sister.
When the counselor arrived, Shar'El wasted no time. “Is your sister Amanda here with you?”
“Yes, Commander,” Adriana replied, her unease evident.
“What can she tell us about her memories or the void you’ve mentioned? Did she ever experience a battle against shadowy opponents using hybrid technology mixing old and new?”
Adriana paused, her eyes distant as Amanda’s voice echoed through her mind. “She remembers the need to fight, to survive,” Adriana relayed, her tone tinged with sorrow. “But… she doesn’t recall this battle you speak of. What she does remember is the moment the Terrans fell unconscious. The whispers in the dark... they grew louder. There are more voices now.”
The revelation sent a ripple of unease through the bridge. Ya’Han, her worry for Jayson evident, broke the silence. “What if the sphere is using them? Turning the Terrans into its defenders against the Tzenkethi? If so, this isn’t just affecting them, it’s using them.”
Shar'El weighed the implications, her sharp mind racing. Every instinct urged caution, to regroup and analyze from a distance. But the thought of abandoning Erik and the others to face this alone was unthinkable.
“Helm,” she said finally, her voice resolute, “set an intercept course for the Tzenkethi vessel, then take us in. Whatever’s happening, we won’t find answers out here. Ya'Han, I need the ANUBIS at full battle readiness, despite our crew shortage.”
The Nylaan security chief nodded, placing a caring kiss on Jayson’s forehead before heading to the tactical station.
As the ANUBIS surged forward, the lattice of the sphere seemed to shimmer, its pulse quickening as if anticipating their arrival. Shar'El couldn’t shake the feeling that they were walking into a trap—but she also knew it was their only way forward.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
-=-=-
"Body and Heart"
Previous post: "Mind and Soul” by Tiffany
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.1725
The sleek profile of the USS ANUBIS cut through the chaos of space, its systems strained under the ever-shifting gravimetric distortions. Lieutenant A'Janni’s ears twitched in sharp focus, the Caitian FCO’s claws lightly grazing the controls as he deftly maneuvered the ship. "Brace yourselves," his voice rumbled. "The lattice structure isn’t as forgiving as it looks." On the main viewscreen, an intricate web of gleaming struts rapidly closed in.
Behind him, Lieutenant Ya'Han stood at her tactical station, her hair blazing a vibrant red that matched her fiery determination. Fingers danced over the controls as she barked, "Shields to full! Weapons armed! Targeting sensors are still inoperative, compensating manually!" A shudder rippled through the deck as the ship narrowly evaded a collision with the dense lattice.
"These gravitational pushes and pulls are making flying through this mess a real nightmare," A'Janni growled, twisting the ANUBIS sharply to avoid an eddy of gravitational forces that had unexpectedly moved in their path. The ship responded sluggishly, but the Caitian pilot’s reflexes were as quick as ever. "You’ve got about sixty seconds before I can’t keep us in one piece."
With A’Janni’s deft maneuvering, the ANUBIS finally pierced the lattice’s threshold, the relentless vibrations giving way to an unsettling calm. Ya’Han seized the moment, her voice breaking the tension. "External sensors are back online!" the Sec/Tac reported. "Not sure how or why, but they are back. Initiating full tactical sensor sweep." Her eyes darted over the displays as new data flooded in. "Picking up two Tzenkethi vessels engaging a swarm of interceptors-like crafts and several orbital defense platforms. Sensors are also picking up what appears to be a trans-dimensional vortex at the edge of this conflict!"
A collective tension filled the bridge as the image on the main viewscreen clarified. One Tzenkethi vessel was limping, its hull sparkling with plasma discharges, while the second fought fiercely, its powerful weaponry slowly shifting the battle’s balance. What caught Ya'Han's attention though was the data now appearing on her console. According to Maya, brainwave patterns from the orbital defenses and interceptors had been detected, an unexpected revelation that stunned the Sec/Tac.
"Commander, Maya is reporting odd brainwave patterns which have been detected by Stellar Cartography…" Ya’Han muttered, dread creeping into her voice. "Gemma’s report from the IGC confirms it. They match our crew’s, at least for the most part. Whatever’s inside that vortex is… using our people to defend itself."
"How is that possible?" Adriana gasped, looking at nothing in particular which hinted that she was questioning the image of her twin sister.
"Somehow, they are tapping into their knowledge and their will to live," Shar'El proposed. "There must be a reason why they are only able to do this with Terrans, but it would explain the live memories I saw from both the Captain and Jayson. I am just not sure how much strain this is going to put on their minds. For all we know, it might leave them unable to ever come back to us."
Before anyone could fully process the revelation, a groan echoed from the side of the bridge. Ya’Han’s heart skipped as she glanced at Jayson, lying unconscious amidst the madness. Her breath caught in her throat as her gaze lingered for a few seconds on his motionless body. The sight of his still form amidst the chaos ignited a spark of desperation within her, fueled by memories of their shared moments and the unbearable possibility of losing him.
"A'Janni, get that second Tzenkethi vessel directly into our X-Axis!" Ya’Han snapped, her voice cutting through the mounting tension. She moved with surgical precision, overriding any hesitation that might’ve emerged. Commander Shar’El started to speak, but the red-haired tactical officer was already acting.
-=-=-
Setting: SPACE, inside the sphere
Stardate: 44354.1728
The ANUBIS banked sharply as A'Janni aligned the vessel for an attack run. Despite its size, the SCARAB-Class cruiser seemed to effortlessly glide into position. As soon as it was in the proper alignment, the ship’s four pulse cannons blazed to life, hurling bolt after bolt of concentrated energy at the Tzenkethi warship. The multiple salvos ripped through the enemy’s midsection, tearing the massive vessel in half. Explosions blossomed across its broken hull, an ominous signal of destruction.
As the ANUBIS drew closer to the now shattered target, a volley of shimmering torpedoes was unleashed. Each payload easily found its mark, transforming the dismembered Tzenkethi vessel into nothing more than incandescent debris.
With one foe destroyed, the defenders turned their fury on the remaining Tzenkethi ship. Already battered and burning, it crumbled under the relentless assault. The smaller crafts and orbital platforms unleashed waves of coordinated fire, leaving nothing but a second cloud of wreckage drifting amidst the sphere’s surreal glow.
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.1730
"That's for Satella," Ya'Han muttered through clenched teeth under her breath. The Nylaan Sec/Tac did not hide the fact that she felt no remorse for what they had done, a sentiment she knew most if not all of those on board the ANUBIS would share.
A breathless silence fell across the bridge. On the main viewscreen, debris slowly scattered in the vast emptiness, illuminated by the vortex’s pulsating energy. Ya’Han’s hands lingered on her console, her red hair slowly darkening to black with red streaks as the adrenaline faded. Jayson still lay on the floor, but her actions had bought the crew a chance to uncover the mysteries of the anomaly that had brought them here in the first place.
Shar'El allowed a long sigh to escape, her breathing heavy with relief as well as disappointment. The ANUBIS had emerged victorious, but had the carnage truly been necessary? Had the drive for revenge called for the loss of so many lives?
There was one other question, this one taking the bridge crew completely by surprise.
"What happened?" Morningstar asked.
"Why am I on the floor?" Jayson quickly followed with.
Captain Monringstar's question was acknowledged by a faint grin from his First Officer while Jayson's query was met with a tackle hug from the visibly emotional Chief of Security, which left him nearly unable to breathe.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
and
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant JG A'Janni
Flight Control Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
"Dreams and Whispers"
Previous post: "Body and Heart” by Hanali and Jayson
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 13, Stellar Cartography
Stardate: 44354.2000
It had been over two hours since the destruction of the two Tzenkethi vessels, along with the tragic loss of all hands aboard. Their demise had coincided with the awakening of the Terrans on the ANUBIS, each emerging from their unconscious state with a shared, harrowing tale.
The accounts painted a chilling picture: while unconscious, their minds had been commandeered to operate the multitude of small fighters and weapons platforms defending the trans-dimensional vortex. These experiences, fragmented yet eerily consistent, spoke of a mental tethering to machinery and a purpose far beyond human comprehension.
For Counselor Adriana Lopez, the revelations gnawed at her. Why had the phenomenon affected only the Terrans? Why not her? Had the link with her twin sister played a part in any of this? The questions refused to leave her mind, driving her to seek answers wherever they might be found.
Her search led her to Stellar Cartography, where Maya had once again immersed herself in studying the anomaly. Adriana hoped the Shillian scientist’s insights might illuminate the mysteries surrounding the ANUBIS and its crew. As she stepped into the massive, five-deck-high chamber, the vast holographic projection of the anomaly dominated her senses. Yet, it wasn’t the celestial spectacle that froze her in place.
Standing beneath the shifting, luminous display was her twin sister, Amanda. Adriana silently questioned the significance of having a hallucination appear to be in a room before the person who had been imagining it, but the Counselor quickly dismissed her professional debate, once again clarifying that Amanda was no longer a figment of her imagination. This image, or whatever it truly was, stood as a genuine reminder that her sister was out there, aive. That thought alone was enough to bring the Hispanic woman to shed tears of joy.
The barely transparent form of the Lopez sister, which had grown increasingly more solid as the mission progressed, stared at the hologram with wide-eyed wonder, her expression a mixture of awe and unease. She murmured, “Sis, it’s like looking at yourself in a mirror but not recognizing who or what you are. It doesn't make any sense, but I know I’m in there, somewhere.”
The weight of Amanda’s words pressed heavily against Adriana’s chest as a mixture of dread and relief washed over her. Before the Counselor could respond, Maya’s voice cut through the moment, her focus entirely on her work.
“Counselor Lopez, I am glad you are here. Since the gravimetric interference has subsided, the ship’s sensors have achieved remarkable clarity,” Maya announced, her tone brimming with excitement. “I’ve performed a comprehensive scan of the anomaly and extended those scans beyond its event horizon. Preliminary data suggests the presence of another sphere-like structure on the other side. It’s not just an accumulation of matter, it’s far too symmetrical leading me to suspect that the sphere-like structure we are currently in has some important role to play in the creation and maintaining of the dimensional wormhole. My analysis is unfortunately not as complete as I would like it to be as I am now dealing with dimensional distortions instead of gravimetric interference.”
Maya trailed off, her fingers flying over the console as the holographic image sharpened and shifted. “The object emits faint but detectable low frequency oscillations, indicative of artificial manipulation. This aligns with phenomena associated with higher-dimensional constructs. What is even more interesting are the reflective energy patterns along the anomaly’s threshold which suggest multiple possible sources. It is difficult to get an accurate count, but I would say that we may be looking at over a hundred independant points of origin for those energy patterns. If my cross-analysis of the new collected data is accurate, I would have to say that we are looking at the brainwave patterns of Terrans.”
Adriana struggled to keep up with Maya’s torrent of information, though the Shillian’s enthusiasm was infectious. Beside her, Amanda, whether a hallucination or something more, watched Maya with an intensity that mirrored Adriana’s own curiosity and confusion.
"Hundreds?" the image of the twin sister said, her voice carrying a hint of breathless amazement. "I am just one of hundreds... so it's their whispers I hear... their whispers that kept me company when I was not here with you sis."
“If this structure is indeed artificial,” Maya continued, lowering her voice as if speaking directly to the anomaly, “it could be a nexus point for whatever force orchestrated the Tzenkethi defense. Understanding its purpose might unravel the anomaly’s true nature and perhaps explain the link to the Terrans.”
As Maya spoke, Amanda turned to Adriana, her gaze piercing and her voice a whisper that echoed only in her sister’s mind.
“I'm in there... we all are... Our minds are being used for something... I don't know what, but what I know is that you’re closer than you have ever been, but it’s not just about me anymore. We all need you..."
Adriana stood motionless, her heart pounding in her chest. The words lingered long after Amanda’s image had faded, leaving the short-breathed teary-eyed Counselor with more questions than answers. What lay beyond the event horizon of the anomaly? What connection did Amanda have to this enigmatic place? And most pressing of all, was she finally going to be reunited with her twin sister?
So many years had passed since Amanda's disappearance. So many questions had remained unanswered. So many sleepless nights spent crying. The end of her quest was right there, on the other side of the celestial anomaly, and there was no way she would allow anyone or anything to get in her way.
Adriana pivoted on her heels and quickly made her way out of Stellar Cartography with one goal -- to make sure Captain Morningstar would press on and see this mission to its completion.
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
and
Jessica Solarik
Lieutenant Commander Maya
Chief Science Officer
USS ANUBIS
"To see the world in a grain of sand,
and a heaven in a wild flower.
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
and eternity in an hour."
- William Blake (British, 1757-1827)
=-=
"Memories and Sorrows"
Previous post: "Dreams and Whispers" by Marissa and Jessica
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Corridor -> Sickbay
Stardate: 34354.2000
Lieutenant Jayson Stark hesitated just outside the doors to Sickbay, his gaze momentarily lost in the faint pulse of light trailing along the corridor’s walls. The anomaly the ANUBIS was investigating had left its mark on him in more ways than one. The battle he had been part of, as unreal as it may have been, had left him with a lingering need to survive that still felt like it overrode everything else. He took a deep breath and stepped forward, the hiss of the opening doors pulling him from his thoughts.
The clinical sterility of Sickbay greeted him, accompanied by the faint hum of equipment and the subdued murmurs of medical staff. Jayson’s eyes scanned the room before landing on a familiar figure. “I need to see Doctor Bruxa,” he said, his tone almost reflexive. The name slipped from his lips before he could stop it, and for a brief moment, he was back in the chaos of the Tzenkethi boarding assault. He had not been here to witness her fall, but the memory of the attack on the bridge hit like a wave, pulling him out of the present.
The words hung in the air, a sudden and palpable shift in the room’s atmosphere. A fleeting shadow crossed the face of Doctor Sofia Andersson, the current Chief Medical Officer, though she recovered quickly. “Doctor Bruxa isn’t here,” she replied gently, her voice a mix of professionalism and understanding. “I’ll take care of you, Lieutenant.”
Jayson’s cheeks flushed as the realization of his error sank in. Of course, Doctor Bruxa wasn’t here. She had been killed during the Tzenkethi boarding assault, a loss that still echoed through the crew. He nodded awkwardly, his hand rubbing the back of his neck. “Right... I’m sorry, Doctor Andersson. I didn’t mean...” He trailed off, the words tangled with unspoken regret.
Sofia offered a reassuring smile, though her eyes betrayed a flicker of shared pain. “It’s all right, Lieutenant. Please, take a seat.”
Jayson complied, settling onto the biobed as Sofia initiated the scans. The soft whirring of the medical tricorder filled the silence, but it did little to ease the weight in the room. Finally, Jayson broke the stillness. “Ya’Han made me come here. She’s worried about me.”
Sofia nodded, her focus divided between the medical tricorder and the man before her. “That sounds like her. She cares deeply for you.”
“More than I deserve, sometimes. Let’s face it, she spent time with a clone of me who was better, stronger, and far more sure of his place in the universe,” Jayson admitted, his voice heavy. He hesitated before continuing, “After everything I’ve been through, losing my wife and our unborn child... I should know better. I should be more careful with my words. But I’m not. And it keeps happening.”
Sofia paused, her hand resting briefly on his shoulder. Her touch was light but steady, a quiet reassurance that spoke of her empathy. Jayson tensed at first, then let out a slow breath, the warmth of her gesture cutting through the storm of his thoughts like a ray of sunlight breaking through dark clouds. “Losing someone you love doesn’t get easier, Jayson. It doesn’t matter how much time passes. Grief has a way of staying with us, shaping how we see the world and how we interact with it. It’s not a weakness; it’s part of being human.”
Her words resonated with a quiet truth, one that Jayson couldn’t deny. He gave her a faint nod, his gaze dropping to the floor. “I just wish I didn’t keep dragging it into the present. It’s not fair to anyone else.”
“Acknowledging it is the first step,” Sofia said, resuming her work. “And you’re not alone in this. You have Ya’Han, and you have this crew. We’ve all lost people, Jayson. What matters is that we don’t let those losses define us completely. We carry them, but we also move forward.”
Jayson met her gaze, a flicker of gratitude breaking through the storm of his thoughts. “Thank you, Doctor. I needed to hear that.”
Sofia offered a small smile as she completed her examination. “Physically, you’re fine. I’ll clear you for duty, but I’d suggest you take some time to process everything. Talk to Adriana or even Brooke if you need to. Ya’Han, me, anyone. You see, you do not need to face this alone.”
He stood, straightening his uniform. “I’ll think about it,” he promised, though his tone suggested he might need some convincing. Talking to a Ship’s Counselor was nothing new to him, the OPS Officer likely having accumulated more hours than anyone else on the ANUBIS, yet this felt different.
As he exited Sickbay, Jayson’s mind was still a whirlwind of emotions. Yet, amid the turmoil, Sofia’s words lingered like a beacon, guiding him toward a path he wasn’t sure he was ready to take but knew he needed to.
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant JG A'Janni
Flight Control Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
##########
"Duties and Responsibilities"
Previous post: "Memories and Sorrows" by Jayson
##########
"Reality becomes fluid when dimensions collide. What lies beyond that threshold is not just another place, but another possibility."
- Dr. Elara Voss, Theoretical Physics, Starfleet Academy, 2371
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Observation Lounge
Stardate: 44354.2100
The Native American studied each face around the Observation Lounge's table, the calmness within the sphere beyond the windows offering a strange contrast to the uncertainty they all faced. His senior staff showed varying degrees of fatigue – the recent engagement with the Tzenkethi and the mysterious unconsciousness that had afflicted all Terran crew members had left its mark.
"Let's begin," Erik said, his voice carrying the weight of command despite his own recent experience. "Lieutenant Commander Maya, what have your sensor scans of the anomaly revealed?"
The Chief Science Officer activated the wall display, showing a complex array of sensor data. "The dimensional field distortions have made complete scans impossible, but we've detected what appears to be another sphere-like structure on the other side of the trans-dimensional vortex." Maya's fingers danced across her PADD as she brought up additional readings. "More significantly, we have identified nearly a hundred distinct brainwave patterns emanating from beyond the event horizon. All of them..." she paused, glancing at her captain, "appear to be Terran."
Lieutenant Gemma, the Intelligence Liaison Officer, leaned forward. "That can't be a coincidence, considering what happened to our Terran crew members."
"It's not," Counselor Adriana Lopez interjected, her expression troubled. "Amanda has been... communicating. She's there, beyond the event horizon. She says she's not alone, and they need our help. They need us to go in and save them."
Doctor Sofia Anderson exchanged glances with Doctor Ava Noiva before speaking. "The medical implications of crossing a dimensional boundary..."
"Are secondary to the fact that we have confirmed survivors requiring assistance," Lieutenant Ya'Han interrupted, her tactical officer's instincts evident in her tone.
Lieutenant Commander Sonja Paquette, the Chief Engineer, quickly pulled up some calculations. "The stress on the outer hull and the ship's structural integrity field would be significant, but with some modifications, we could theoretically maintain cohesion through the vortex. I am most certainly not going to have us sidelined by something the BASTET does on a regular basis."
"The BASTET is equipped with a Dimensional Jump Drive," Ani, the ship's avatar pointed out, a faint grin playing on her lips. "We are not."
"Lieutenant Stark," Erik turned to his Operations Officer, noting how the man's presence stirred something in his recent memory, "what's your assessment of our operational capacity?"
Jayson considered for a moment. "With power rerouted from non-essential systems and Lieutenant Commander Paquette's knack for doing the impossible, I am certain that we can maintain structural stability for our journey through the vortex."
Lieutenant JG A'Janni, the helmsman, nodded. "I was able to fly the ANUBIS into the sphere while dealing with countless gravimetric disturbances. Dimensional distortions and shear should not be a problem."
"The MACOs stand ready to assist with any rescue operations," Lieutenant JG Zub Enel added, his determination clear.
Erik absorbed their reports, his expression neutral. "Ya'Han, Shar'El, please remain. The rest of you, dismissed. Begin preparations for a potential trans-dimensional rescue operation."
As the room cleared, Erik's expression hardened. "Lieutenant, your destruction of the Tzenkethi vessels..."
"Was necessary for the protection of this crew," Ya'Han interrupted, standing her ground. "While you and the other Terran crew members were unconscious, they were attempting to breach the defensive perimeter and enter the vortex. The same defenses you were somehow linked to. If they were to succeed, we could have lost you all."
Commander Shar'El stepped forward. "Captain, the memories I glimpsed from Jayson and yourself confirm this. Ya'Han acted before I could give the order, but her actions prevented further casualties on our side. The Tzenkethi were attempting to gain control of the anomaly and would not have allowed anyone, especially us, to stand in their way."
Erik's jaw tightened. "You believe your actions were justified solely by tactical necessity? Not influenced by a desire for revenge over Doctor Bruxa's death?"
"My personal feelings about Doctor Bruxa's death remain my own," Ya'Han replied evenly, her hair maintaining its solid black with red streaks showing that she was in complete control of her emotions as she spoke. "My actions were driven by the immediate tactical situation and the need to protect incapacitated crew members."
Erik held Ya'Han's gaze for a long moment before finally nodding. "Dismissed, Lieutenant."
As Ya'Han left, Shar'El lingered. Her eyes met the tactical officer's as she departed, conveying a clear message – she had supported Ya'Han's actions, but unofficially would have preferred a less aggressive solution, one more aligned with their captain's philosophy. The doors closed, leaving the command team to contemplate their next moves in the face of this dimensional mystery.
--==(/\)==--
Francois Charette
Captain Erik Morningstar
Commanding Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
--
"I used to think it was awful that life was so unfair. Then I thought, wouldn't it be much worse if life were fair and all the terrible things that happen to us come because we actually deserve them. So now I take great comfort in the general hostility and unfairness of the universe."
- Marcus Cole, Babylon 5
"Names and Secrets"
Previous post: "Duties and Responsibilities"
Location: USS ANUBIS, Observation Lounge
Stardate: 44354.2102
(from Francois last post)
Lieutenant Gemma, the Intelligence Liaison Officer, leaned forward. "That can't be a coincidence, considering what happened to our Terran crew members."
"It's not," Counselor Adriana Lopez interjected, her expression troubled. "Amanda has been... communicating. She's there, beyond the event horizon. She says she's not alone, and they need our help. They need us to go in and save them."
(mine)
The rest of the briefing faded into the background as the Counselor's words struck a chord, igniting a heated internal debate among Gemma's fragmented personas.
“Why the Terrans?” Wimdalli, the Uxali scientist, pondered within the confines of Gemma's mind. “Is there something about their brain chemistry or physiological makeup that makes them more susceptible to this kind of mental influence?”
“I wouldn’t call it ‘influence,’” Yshuni Talz muttered. “Sounds more like hijacking to me.”
“The terminology is irrelevant,” Finnja sighed, her Dinaali empathy making silence impossible. “If Maya is correct, there are hundreds of people trapped beyond that thing. We have to help them.”
“Relax,” Gabrielle Wolfe countered sharply. “Why do you think the Captain called this meeting? Just look at him, he’s already made up his mind. All he needs now is the ‘how.’”
“To travel into another dimension...” Lireen cooed dreamily, her words carrying an air of wonder.
“Yes, because running into the Masters, Species 8472, or something even worse is such a great idea,” Shinral growled. The Reman bodyguard always erred on the side of caution, her mind consumed by worst-case scenarios.
“Whatever we face, we’ll navigate through it as we always have,” Dalra, the Varro pilot, added confidently. “We’ve danced with the randomness of the universe more than once and lived to tell the tale.”
Lyric’s voice cut through the din, her statement lingering longer than the others. “There is no randomness. There are no coincidences. Everything happens because something else happened before. We’re all part of an endless chain of events, like dominos. Our actions, or inactions, trigger the next event. We are here, now, looking into another dimension because of the abduction of a six-year-old girl decades ago and her twin sister’s determination to find her. There are no coincidences.”
These words struck Gemma to her core, spurring her into action. As soon as the briefing concluded, the ILO darted out of the Observation Lounge.
-=-=-
Location: USS ANUBIS, Corridor -> Quarters
Stardate: 44354.2110
Even on a normal day, the crew knew to avoid getting in Gemma’s way. But now, there was an urgency to her stride that made those she passed glance after her with unease, wondering if the ANUBIS was once again under attack. Without so much as a word, Gemma navigated the corridors, eventually reaching her quarters.
Inside the spartan, undecorated space, she locked her gaze onto a small Vulcan puzzle box. With precise pressure, she opened it to reveal an artifact that had haunted her for years: a wrist nameplate engraved with the cryptic inscription G*MMA. It was the only tangible clue to her identity, discovered during her earliest memory in SECTION I of NEW ALEXANDRIA. Clutching the nameplate tightly, she left as quickly as she had arrived, her destination clear.
-=-=-
Location: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.2115
Gemma entered the Sickbay with calm purpose, her official reason being to check on “Christie.” But her true focus lay on the wrist plate unknown woman had been found with, an artifact eerily similar to her own, used to identify the woman just as Gemma’s had once named her.
Standing in Sickbay, Gemma opened her hand to stare at the inscription. Fragmented memories stirred within her, but they remained incomplete, as though some unseen force held them back.
It was then that Ava Noiva, the enigmatic CMO, passed by. Her gaze fell on the nameplate, and she whispered something that sent a chill through Gemma: “It’s G-A-M-M-A. Gamma.”
Gemma turned to confront her, but Ava was gone, leaving the ILO to wrestle with a cacophony of voices rising within her. The revelation triggered an intense internal debate among her personas. Theories, denials, and arguments overlapped, each voice grappling with the impossible implications of what they had just learned.
Suddenly, a new figure appeared. A flickering image, like a malfunctioning hologram, materialized in Gemma’s mind. The figure was familiar yet unrecognizable, as if it predated all of her other personas.
“Who... what are you?” Gemma demanded.
“Access to Project GAMMA data is restricted,” the hologram replied in a monotone, robotic voice.
“Project GAMMA... I’ve heard that before,” Gemma muttered, her fragmented memories clawing at the edges of her consciousness.
Her thoughts were interrupted by a cold, mechanical statement: “ACCESS DENIED!”
A wave of searing pain coursed through her, dropping her to one knee. Barely able to breathe, Gemma clutched the nameplate as though it were the only thing tethering her to reality.
This wasn’t new information, and yet it felt unfamiliar, hidden within the shadows of her mind. The suppressed knowledge hinted at something larger, something vital. Lyric’s words, Ava’s whisper, and the sudden emergence of this new presence had all acted as a catalyst, forcing Gemma to confront the fractured puzzle of her existence.
The mystery of who she truly was had taken a new turn, and the journey to uncover it had only just begun.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
=-=
“Victim and Villain”
Previous post: “Names and Secrets” by Rachel
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Observation Lounge
Stardate: 44354.2110
After the meeting had ended, the tall scaly Voth rose to his feet in the Observation Lounge. At 7-foot, his crested head touched the ceiling. As he waited for the other officers to clear the room, he mentally reviewed his MACO troops readiness plan. He had been in other dimensions aboard the USS BASTET. He learned there that rules of Nature were not universal. He had to be ready for something completely bizarre and while on-the-fly make sense of whether something was a threat or not.
Gemma had darted away from the table, the first out the door. Zub recalled he had been vaguely aware that she had stewed over something that was making her more and more – what? Upset? Her sudden departure made him certain he had picked up her state of mind. He felt like she was heading off to do something – something important.
He frowned as he followed the others out. His memory of the meeting was that visually Gemma had simply sat at the table, her face neutral. Classic Gemma inscrutability. Yet, he was positive that even so, he had somehow picked up her inner turmoil. This insight felt almost close enough to her emotions for him to name what was troubling her.
As he walked into the corridor and Gemma stepped into the turbolift, the feeling of closeness to her emotions vanished. His memory of them evaporated like a dream upon awakening. He wondered if this sudden insight was another effect of the anomaly. Maybe it was now getting the range, so to speak, of the brainwaves of non-Terran beings. Was this a prelude to another commandeering of consciousness by the anomaly?
He stood near the other officers as they waited the turbolift. No such feeling or insight into internal processes of any of them came to him, though several stared back at him quizzically for locking eyes with them. He shrugged and put his gaze on the deck. Was it just with Gemma?
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.2116
Zub had gotten partway to Deck 20 to check on his MACO’s readiness, when he felt an urge to check with Dr. Andersson or Dr. Noiva about how unusually quick he had healed from his injuries. The connection to Gemma hadn’t started until after the Tzenkethi attack in Sickbay. She had been severely injured. He had, for once, saved *her* from attack. As per usual, she had begun to heal right before his eyes. But, she had almost died in his arms. Maybe this connection to her was somehow related, if one existed.
He strode to the doors of Sickbay which parted briskly. The scent of antiseptic washed over him. The warm air carried other scents, mostly of the people in there.
His golden-eyed gaze searched for either Chief Medical Officer. He smiled when he spied Dr. Noiva. Her trim back was toward him as she walked in an arc toward Gemma. She appeared to say something and then continued deeper into the facility.
Gemma had stiffened, doubled over and dropped to one knee. One hand pressed the floor to keep herself from complete collapse. Her other she held clinched in a fist. She muttered to herself.
Zub rushed toward her, his gaze momentarily seeking out Ava Novia. It appeared to him that whatever the CMO had said had triggered an uncharacteristic attack on the usually and heroically unshakable Gemma.
He knelt on one knee which brought him close to Gemma. He hesitated to touch her when she was in distress, a habit partly due to being wary of her more deadly personas that could appear in a blink. He forced his three-fingered hand down anyway on her shoulder. She was cold. He felt she was not in pain as much as overcome by… He quested for words – by deep confusion, shock and surprise, gnawing puzzlement.
He kept his deep voice low in volume. “Gemma?”
She took a deep breath, let it go and then inhaled another. Clearly to him she was recovering from whatever shock had laid her low. A shock he was certain Noiva had delivered. Angry at the CMO for whatever this nasty piece of work was, he found himself standing, searching her out.
She stood near the biobed of the female he and others had saved from the alien runabout. A female named Christie. He knew absolutely nothing more about her.
Zub strode over, fists clenched, a scowl forcing his bony eyebrows together.
Christie turned her head at his approach. At first, she smiled brightly. And why not? He had helped rescue her after all. Then her eyes widened, her lips opened. Her face contorted with fear.
Ava Noiva regarded his angry approach with a coolness that arrested Zub’s rage. She had the watchful confidence of a warrior who was long used to winning against any enemy. It was a look he had seen many times on Gemma’s face. His habit of practicing and using martial arts caused him to slow, to assess. He arrived at the opposite side of the biobed with Christie cowering against the CMO.
Noiva said, “Whatever you are here for you are frightening my patient. Stand down and back off at once.” There was a tenseness to her shoulders. Her arms, though relaxed, were flexed. She looked like she would strike him if he got any closer.
Zub Enel held up his hands and backed off a step. He said to her, “Whatever you said to Gemma has upset her. I want to know what it was.”
Ava raised one eyebrow. Her tone was dismissive. “Whatever a physician says to a patient is need-to-know, trooper.”
Enel hesitated, stymied. He realized he’d charge over to the CMO without thinking it through. He’d reacted emotionally. It belied his belief in his own self-control.
=-=
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
“What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight; build it anyway.”
- Mother Teresa
"Tests and Results"
Previous post: "Victim and Villain"
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Ava Noiva's Quarters
Stardate: 44353.2130
Ava stepped into her quarters and paused just outside the door’s sensor range, allowing it to hiss closed behind her. The confrontation with MCO Zub Enel had been unexpected and unnecessary, yet it had revealed something intriguing... something she would need to consider in her future dealings with Gemma.
After a moment to collect her thoughts, Ava crossed the room and settled at her desk. Her shoulder-length, wavy blonde hair darkened and straightened, flowing seamlessly into solid black locks. As Chloe now, she withdrew a small PADD from a hidden compartment in her satchel. The device’s matte screen sprang to life, displaying the secure interface she had designed for just this purpose. A quick glance at the corner of the screen confirmed that the encrypted channel to Admiral Koniki was active.
^^^^^^
To: Admiral Koniki
Subject: Phase 2 Testing and Results
Admiral,
As per your directive, the evaluation and tests continue. This report provides a concise overview of the ongoing process and the results of our most recent efforts.
Continued observation on the effects of the QIFG has revealed no lingering issues from the initial exposure. Neural activity appears stable across all metrics. However, I am still awaiting an opportunity to field-test the upgraded Quantum Generator. Once deployed, it should yield more reliable data on her adaptive capacity to such phenomena.
Phase 2 of the testing has been initiated. The embedded safety protocols remain functional; however, I am not entirely convinced of their operational integrity. Discrepancies in observed responses suggest minor irregularities, which could escalate under duress. I recommend a thorough diagnostic analysis to ensure compliance and efficiency, particularly before further field operations.
I must also report the presence of behavioral anomalies. Recent observations indicate a recurring pattern of distraction, though the cause remains unidentified. Environmental factors warrant consideration, including potential gravimetric interference within the ALPHA-KRAILIN SECTOR or proximity to a trans-dimensional vortex. While there is no direct evidence that the spatial sphere the USS ANUBIS currently occupies is affecting the subject, the possibility cannot yet be ruled out. Additional scans are underway to investigate these potential influences.
I will continue to monitor and submit further reports as needed to ensure the efficacy of the testing and the subject’s reliability.
Respectfully,
Field Agent GAMMA 02
^^^^^^
Chloe leaned back in her chair, her expression contemplative as she momentarily set the PADD on the desk. A glance at the nearby mirror confirmed the reassertion of her Ava persona. A smirk curled her lips. Noiva had never liked the label “Operative.” It felt too clinical, too detached from the reality of who she was and what she could achieve. “Field Agent” suited her far better. After all, she was the next evolution in the program, wasn’t she?
A quiet, self-assured smile crossed her face as she tapped her console, encrypting and transmitting the report. After locking the device and returning it to its hidden location in her satchel, Ava leaned back and let her thoughts wander.
A soft chuckle escaped her lips. “Mr. Enel... what is your interest in Gemma?” she mused aloud, her tone dripping with curiosity. “As the oldest of sixteen, your protective instincts are a foregone conclusion. But to come to her defense with such vigor? That is more than an instinctual reaction.” She tapped her fingers lightly against the desk. “Could it be? Could she have managed to earn the affection of someone else?”
Ava shook her head, the thought leaving her unconvinced. “No,” she whispered, her eyes narrowing. “I’m not ready to accept that, not for someone like Gemma. But I will figure it out.” She smiled, a glint of mischief in her expression. “In the meantime, it might be fun to see just how far this connection between you and her really goes.”
Satisfied with her reflection, Ava rose from her chair and stepped away, her next move already forming in her mind.
=-=
Dawn Bohr
Lieutenant Ava Noiva
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
=-=
"Dreams and Hopes"
Previous post: "Tests and Results" by the skillful Dawn
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.2130
Dr. Sofia Andersson leaned against the biobed, her medical tricorder lying idle on the nearby console. The soft hum of the ship’s systems served as a backdrop to the storm of emotions swirling in the room. The unknown woman, now identified as Cristhiane, sat trembling on the edge of the bed, clutching the bracelet inscribed with the name “Christe.”
Sofia placed a calming hand on Cristhiane’s shoulder, her voice gentle yet steady. “Take deep breaths. You’re safe now, Cristhiane. The ANUBIS is here to help.”
The woman’s tear-streaked face turned toward Sofia, her dark eyes wide with despair. “You don’t understand,” she sobbed, her voice breaking. “Christe...my daughter... She’s gone. I failed her.”
Sofia’s heart twisted at the raw anguish in those words. “Why do you think she’s gone?” she asked softly, crouching to meet Cristhiane’s gaze.
“The sphere,” Cristhiane whispered, her hands clutching the bracelet tighter. “I’ve seen it in my dreams, over and over. Christe is inside it, crying for me. But I couldn’t reach her. My ship...” Her voice faltered, and fresh tears spilled down her cheeks. “My ship was crippled. I couldn’t even save myself, let alone her. She must be...” She couldn’t bring herself to say the word.
Sofia leaned closer, her tone firm yet compassionate. “Listen to me, Cristhiane. We’ve encountered that sphere. In fact, the ANUBIS has already entered it. There’s a chance, a real chance, that Christe is still alive, and we’re going to do everything in our power to find her.”
The mother’s breath hitched. “We're inside?”
Sofia nodded. “We are looking at a dimension portal and Captain Morningstar has already made the decision. We’re heading in to complete our mission, and now that mission includes finding Christe.”
A spark of hope flickered in Cristhiane’s eyes, but it was quickly snuffed out by doubt. “But what if you can’t? What if she’s already...”
Sofia interrupted gently but firmly. “Don’t go there. Not yet. We don’t know what we’ll find, but I promise you, we won’t stop until we’ve searched every corner of that sphere.”
Cristhiane’s trembling hands reached out, grasping Sofia’s. “Please,” she pleaded, her voice breaking again. “Let me come with you. I need to be there. If there’s even a chance my daughter is alive, I need to see her. I need to hold her.”
Sofia hesitated, her own heart breaking at the woman’s desperate plea. Protocol and safety dictated that Cristhiane remain aboard and in Sickbay, but her anguish was palpable, her desperation undeniable.
“Cristhiane,” Sofia said, her voice tight with emotion, “I know how much you want to go, and if it were up to me alone, I’d take you in a heartbeat. But you’ve been through so much already. Right now, you need to trust us to do this for you.”
Cristhiane’s grip on Sofia’s hands tightened, and her sobs grew louder. “I can’t lose her. She’s all I have left.”
Sofia’s eyes filled with unshed tears as she pressed the woman’s hands between her own. “And we’ll do everything we can to bring her back to you. You’re not alone in this anymore.”
Sofia reached for the PADD on the nearby counter, pulling up an image of the dimensional vortex. She turned the device to Cristhiane, showing her the swirling, otherworldly portal. “This is where we’re headed,” she explained. “If your dreams are right, this is where Christe is. And this is where we’ll find her.”
Cristhiane stared at the image, her tears falling freely. Her lips moved silently as though praying to some unseen force. When she finally spoke, her voice was barely above a whisper. “Please, Doctor Andersson. Bring her back to me.”
Sofia nodded solemnly. “We will.”
As Cristhiane wept, Sofia held her close, her own resolve hardening. The stakes had never been higher. Two lives now hung in the balance: Amanda Lopez and Christe. And failure was not an option.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve <sttr242526@gmail.com>
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
=-=
"Courage and Unity"
Previous post: "Dreams and Hopes" by Tiffany
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.2145
The tension on the bridge was palpable as the countdown to entering the dimensional vortex reached its final moments. The crew of the USS ANUBIS prepared with a calm yet focused determination, each officer performing their final checks. The Chief of Operations, Lieutenant Jayson Stark, did his best to conceal the nervousness creeping over him as he scanned through the system reports.
“All stations, this is Lieutenant Stark. Final system check before we enter the vortex. Report your status.”
=/\= Engineering here, =/\= came the unmistakable voice of Lieutenant Paquette, her thick Scottish accent lending a sense of reassurance. =/\= The power distribution grid’s been reinforced by 22%. I’m still working on pushing that higher, but structural integrity is sitting just shy of 200%. Shields are modulated, and the ablative armor is phase-shifted to match the specs we have on the USS BASTET’s Dimensional Jump Drive. If this ship’s got any weak spots left, I’ll eat my engineering manuals. =/\=
Jayson couldn’t help but smile faintly as he glanced across the bridge toward the Tactical station.
“Phasers, pulse cannons and quantum torpedoes are fully operational. Modulated shields are at full strength, and ablative armor is at 100% integrity. We’re ready for anything the vortex might throw at us,” reported Lieutenant Ya’Han in a crisp and composed voice.
“The Marines are ready to jump into action at your command, Captain,” Zub Enel offered. The massive Voth stood near Ya’Han, his towering presence almost comical beside the Nylaan Tactical Officer.
From the Intelligence Gathering Center, Gemma’s voice carried a subtle, unexpected softness. =/\= Sensors are at full operational status. There are no vessels or anomalies within the sphere. The vortex remains stable, and we’re not picking up anything across the event horizon. =/\=
Jayson’s brow furrowed slightly as he exchanged a glance with Ava Noiva, the Chief Medical Officer, who stood nearby. Ava’s faint smile suggested she knew something Jayson didn’t.
“Lieutenant Commander Maya, report,” Jayson prompted, knowing the Shillian might be so engrossed in analyzing the dimensional vortex that she’d forget to present her status report.
=/\= Yes, of course, =/\= Maya’s voice was animated, her excitement palpable. =/= The vortex exhibits trans-dimensional properties consistent with quantum destabilization across multiple sub-space layers. Energy readings suggest a stable Einstein-Rosen bridge, although phase distortion within the vortex indicates... =/\=
“Lieutenant Commander...” Shar’El, the First Officer, interrupted gently but firmly. “Maya, focus on the readiness report, please.”
Maya’s sheepish reply followed. =/\= Apologies. All systems are prepared for vortex entry. Data feeds are live, and I will monitor for energy signature fluctuations, phase variances, or anomalies. =/\=
Sickbay’s readiness report came next, delivered with the professional calm of Doctor Sofia Andersson. =/\= Medical staff is on emergency standby. We’re prepared to respond immediately if needed. =/\= In the background, another voice could be faintly heard, trembling with emotion. =/\= Thank you. =/\=
Jayson glanced at Shar’El, who offered a small, knowing smile. “That would be Cristhiane,” she explained quietly. “The woman we rescued. She’s Christie’s mother.”
Adriana, the Ship’s Counselor, also smiled, understanding the hope Cristhiane must feel at being so close to reuniting with her daughter.
Lastly, Lieutenant A’Janni, seated at the helm, gave his report. “Trajectory plotted and set. I’ve aligned us for the center of the vortex to equalize stress across the ANUBIS. Not my first time threading the needle, but the ANUBIS is a bit more imposing than the BASTET. I’d suggest everyone fasten their seatbelts. I can’t promise a smooth ride.”
With all stations accounted for, Jayson turned to Captain Morningstar. “Sir, all stations report ready.”
Erik Morningstar, the commanding officer of the USS ANUBIS, sat in the captain’s chair, his gaze steady and resolute. “Very well. Lieutenant A’Janni, take us in.”
The Caitian’s ears flicked nervously as his hands danced over the console. The vortex on the main viewscreen grew larger, its swirling energy casting an ethereal glow across the bridge.
“Well,” A’Janni quipped, his voice carrying a wry edge, “if this doesn’t work, at least we’ll make one spectacular splash.”
The bridge crew chuckled softly, the moment of levity a testament to their trust and camaraderie. As the ANUBIS surged forward into the heart of the vortex, professionalism and confidence tempered any lingering uncertainty, carrying them boldly into the unknown.
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant JG A'Janni
Flight Control Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
---
"Dimensional Shapes"
(Previous Post: "Courage and Unity")
---
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Deck 13, Stellar Cartography
Stardate: 44354.2200
The Shillian scientist could barely contain her excitement as she watched the swirling cascade of light and energy displayed across the panoramic projection in Stellar Cartography. The trans-dimensional vortex, a celestial anomaly unlike anything cataloged in Federation history, now dominated every sensor the ship possessed. Unlike traditional spatial rifts or wormholes, this vortex demonstrated an unprecedented level of complexity, combining subspace distortions with quantum phase variations that defied conventional physics. Its dynamic structure and precision suggested a deliberate design, crafted with a purpose yet to be understood. Enclosed within the lattice structure of a moon-sized sphere, the vortex shimmered with hues of violet, gold, and azure, its dynamics akin to an intricate ballet of quantum fields.
Despite the violent jolts shaking the ANUBIS as it navigated the event horizon, Maya’s focus never wavered. Her Shillian physiology, trained to maintain composure even in high-stress environments, kept her steady at her station. Her spotted brow furrowed as data scrolled rapidly across her displays, each line offering new revelations about the phenomenon.
“Fascinating,” she muttered, fingers dancing over the console. “The vortex is exhibiting a quadruple-layered subspace distortion, each layer resonating at a distinct quantum frequency. This is not merely a natural phenomenon; this is an astonishing engineered construct.”
The ship lurched again, alarms wailing briefly before being silenced. Maya hardly noticed. Her mind was immersed in the confluence of scientific wonder and operational urgency.
“The lattice sphere itself appears to be composed of a crystalline alloy," the Shillian thought aloud. "Likely designed to stabilize the dimensional threshold of the vortex. Preliminary analysis suggests the material possesses extraordinary tensile strength, enabling it to withstand immense gravitational forces. Additionally, it exhibits unparalleled energy conductivity, which may facilitate the precise modulation of quantum fields necessary to maintain the stability of the vortex. Spectrographic analysis indicates elements unknown to the Federation database, suggesting an origin either beyond our galaxy or from an advanced civilization with an entirely different technological paradigm.”
As the ANUBIS crossed the threshold of the vortex, a disorienting shimmer rippled through the displays. For a moment, the ship seemed suspended in a void where spatial dimensions folded into themselves. Then, with a sudden burst of clarity, the viewscreens adjusted to reveal an entirely new realm. Maya’s eyes widened.
“We’ve crossed into the other dimension,” she said, her voice tinged with awe. “The trans-dimensional vortex is stable. Structural integrity of the ship remains intact, mostly, thank you Sonja. Jayson is already recalibrating the inertial dampeners to account for the residual spatial shear. Good, back to my sensor scans.”
Her hands moved deftly, commanding the sensors to scan their surroundings. The data began to pour in. “Confirmed. Another lattice sphere encapsulates this region. Its composition is analogous to the outer sphere, though its energy signatures are markedly distinct. This second sphere appears to function as a containment or regulatory barrier, maintaining environmental stability within the dimension.”
Maya paused as new readings emerged. “Sensors have detected an M-class planet beyond the sphere. Initial readings indicate a breathable nitrogen-oxygen atmosphere with trace amounts of argon and carbon dioxide, consistent with EARTH-like conditions. Gravity measures at 0.98 G, and the axial tilt suggests the presence of seasons. These factors, combined with its diverse biomes, make it remarkably EARTH-like. If I did not know better, I would believe that the varied climates, diverse topography, oceans, mountain ranges, temperate zones, are actually those of EARTH, although the continental geography is completely different. This cannot be just a dimensional-crossing coincidence,” she mused to herself.
The ANUBIS began its approach to the planet, maneuvering past the lattice sphere. Maya initiated a focused planetary scan, her excitement only growing.
“Bridge, sensors show no indications of advanced civilization,” she reported. “However, I’m detecting four large pyramid-like structures located inland, surrounded by dense jungle vegetation. The structures are exactly 20 degress from the rotational axis of the planet and are perfectly centered along the latitude line of the continent. Their geometric precision suggests artificial construction, but their design does not correlate with any known cultural archetypes from our records.”
=/\= Thank you Maya, =/\= Commander Shar'El offered. We will be setting up in high orbit over those structures, keep us informed if you pick-up anything else. =/\=
She enhanced the scans, narrowing the sensor focus on the pyramids. “Fascinating,” she breathed. “The structures are emitting faint but consistent energy signatures. The energy appears to be a low-frequency electromagnetic field interspersed with tachyon particles, which might be integral to maintaining the stasis technology, and why we were able to detect the energy signature from across the dimensional event horizon. This suggests a sophisticated mechanism capable of suspending biological processes without degradation over an extended period. Furthermore, I’m detecting hundreds of weak yet steady Terran lifesigns concentrated within the pyramids. It is plausible they are in some form of stasis, though the technology sustaining such conditions is currently beyond our understanding.”
Maya glanced up at the projection, her mind racing. The possibilities were endless. Who had created these lattice spheres and the pyramids? What purpose did this dimension serve? And perhaps most intriguingly, who were the humans lying dormant on this alien world? All that the Shillian could do at this time was hope that Adriana's sister and Cristhiane's daughter would be amongst them, safe and sound.
“Captain,” she said, activating the intercom to the bridge. “I recommend we initiate a closer investigation of the pyramids. They may hold the key to understanding the purpose of this dimension and the anomaly that brought us here. This discovery… it could redefine our understanding of interdimensional travel, archaeology, and the shared origins of intelligent life.”
=/\= We were thinking the same, =/\= Morningstar acknowledged.
Even as the ANUBIS steadied itself in orbit, Maya’s mind was already cataloging theories and planning experiments. This was why she had joined Starfleet, to explore the unknown, to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos, and to ensure that knowledge, no matter how alien or esoteric, would illuminate the path forward.
---
Jessica Solarik
Lieutenant Commander Maya
Chief Science Officer
USS ANUBIS
"To see the world in a grain of sand,
and a heaven in a wild flower.
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
and eternity in an hour."
- William Blake (British, 1757-1827)
"Sisterly Bond"
Previous post: "Dimensional Shapes” by Jessica
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.2220
The ANUBIS had crossed into uncharted territory—a new dimension where reality felt fragile and strange. The hum of the ship felt heavier, the air thick with the weight of anticipation. On the bridge, voices filled the space: sensor readings, navigational adjustments, and updates about the planet they now orbited. Four pyramid-like structures rose from the surface, ancient and foreboding. And amidst the static of overlapping reports, one phrase cut through Adriana's daze: “Weak Terran lifesigns detected.”
Her eyes locked on the main viewscreen, where the planet's surface was displayed in stark detail. Four pyramids, their edges worn by time but their purpose resolute, stood like sentinels guarding a truth she had been chasing her entire life. Adriana’s heart thundered in her chest. This could be it. This could be where Amanda was—her sister, lost across dimensions, across time, across every measure of distance imaginable.
Her emotions surged like a storm, battering her from within. Uncontainable joy clashed with paralyzing fear. What would she find down there? What if Amanda was truly alive? Would she be the sister Adriana remembered, or someone irreparably changed? Would Amanda even recognize her?
Her hands trembled, clutching the edge of the console for stability, but her vision blurred as she fought back tears. And then, as if summoned by her emotions, Amanda appeared.
“Breathe,” Amanda said softly, her voice a balm to Adriana’s fraying nerves. She stood before her, radiant and calm, just as Adriana always pictured her. But something was different this time—something unmistakably real. When Amanda reached out, Adriana felt her. The warmth, the pressure, the undeniable sensation of her sister’s hands closing around her own. It stole the breath from her lungs.
“This is it, Adri,” Amanda said with a smile that could mend broken hearts. “You’ve found me. Everything will be alright.”
Adriana’s knees buckled, and for a moment, she felt like a child again, clutching at her sister for comfort. But even as the joy of this moment threatened to overwhelm her, a shadow of fear lingered. Amanda had always been an image, a projection of a trauma she could never truly resolve. This connection, this touch—was it real? Or was it the anomaly playing tricks on her mind?
Yet, deep down, Adriana knew. Amanda wasn’t just a phantom of her imagination this time. She was real, waiting for her. The pyramids weren’t just monuments to an alien past—they were a gateway to a reunion she had dreamed of for decades. Despite the dimensions that had separated them, Adriana and Amanda had endured so much together. Even in absence, Amanda had never truly left her side.
This was not the time for doubt. This was a moment to act, to embrace hope, and to finally take that step forward.
“Lieutenant Lopez?” Shar’El’s voice broke through the haze, sharp but not unkind. Adriana blinked and saw the First Officer standing before her, her gaze steady and questioning. “Are you coming with the away team? Or would you prefer to remain on the ANUBIS?”
Adriana hesitated for only a heartbeat. She glanced back at the viewscreen and then at the spot where Amanda had stood, now empty but still alive in her heart. Her sister was down there. She had to be.
Adriana straightened, her voice steady despite the storm inside her. “I’m coming.”
She would go down to that planet. She would face whatever waited for her in those pyramids—whether it was a miracle, a nightmare, or something beyond imagination. Because Amanda was waiting, and Adriana had never stopped searching.
This was her moment.
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
"Unseen Enemies"
Previous post: "Sisterly Bond"
Location: USS ANUBIS, Transporter Room 2
Stardate: 44354.2240
The transporter room felt unusually tense as the away team assembled, none of them daring to set foot on the platform just yet, waiting for instructions to do so. Counselor Lopez appeared to be the most unsure, her hands nervously fidgeting. Lieutenant Gemma on the other hand stood to one side, relaxed, indifferent, her arms crossed. Her posture suddenly thighted, her nails pressing into her palms as she glared at Doctor Noiva, her jaw set in a sharp line as she stared down Doctor Ava Noiva as she walked into the room.
"What is she doing here?" The ILO demanded, her voice low but laced with venom. The sudden outburst caught the others off guard, though none were entirely surprised. Gemma’s unease around the ship’s newest medical officer had been evident for the moment she had boarded the ANUBIS. “We don’t need her. She’s more of a risk than an asset.”
"Doctor Noiva is here because we need her expertise," Commander Shar'El replied calmly, stepping between the two women with a practiced ease. Her tone was firm, commanding, and yet still considerate. "If we find Terrans inside those pyramids as the sensors suggest we will, someone needs to evaluate their condition. Doctor Andersson is staying aboard to care for Cristhiane."
Gemma’s jaw clenched. She opened her mouth to retort, but Lieutenant JG Zub Enel stepped closer, his imposing figure silently lending weight to Shar'El's words. "We need to focus on the mission," he said simply, his tone steady. "We need you to keep us all safe, to see the things we cannot."
"He likes you," Seksa whispered into Gemma's mind. "He's trying to protect her."
"Relax will you," Jinx sneered. "He's not planning on doing the horizontal mambo with her. He's making sure that the away team has all of the odds in their favour."
"Honestly," Gwenvel, the El-Aurian Counselor chimed in. "I think you might be both right. "There is something different about the way he looks at her. Something changed, I am just not able to put my finger on it."
"Who cares?" Lireen, the blonde-haired explorer said, mentally plowing through everyone else. "Enough with the drama already. We are about to go down onto an unexplored planet located in another dimension. Let's GO!"
"Yes," Anya agreed, her Russian accent coming across as colder than usual, if that were possible. "Let's go. We can deal with these issues once we are on the planet."
After what seemed to have been a long pause, Gemma exhaled sharply and moved to the transporter pad without another word. The flicker of her conflicting personas played across her expression, an internal war between agreement, indignation, and something darker.
-=-=-
Location: Unknown Planet, Thick jungle near the pyramid
Stardate: 44354.2245
The jungle was alive with oppressive humidity and the faint rustle of leaves stirred by a breeze too soft to offer relief. The team fanned out cautiously, tricorders in hand. Despite the overwhelming density of plant life, the devices registered nothing out of the ordinary, no additional life signs, no energy signatures, nothing to indicate that the planet was anything other than deserted.
Except it wasn’t. Gemma could feel it in her bones.
Her tricorder might as well have been a useless brick in her hand, its blank readings unable to counteract the primal instinct coursing through her. She scanned the treetops, the undergrowth, every shadow, convinced that eyes were upon them. A whisper of a thought brushed against her mind, hunters watching their prey.
The ILO scanned the away team, her gaze locking on the CMO who was not even looking at her tricorder. "The only thing that matters is survival. Her presence jeopardizes ours." The voice in her head was sharp, cold, unmistakably that of Anya Petrov, the assassin.
"Or she’s the bait," Neri countered, her tone laced with mischief.
Gemma’s lip curled slightly as she glanced toward Doctor Noiva, who seemed preoccupied, her eyes darting to her tricorder more often than necessary. The doctor’s fingers tapped lightly against its casing, as if in anticipation, and once, she tilted her head as though reacting to something no one else had noticed. Was she oblivious, or was she hiding something? The unease Gemma had felt in the transporter room hadn’t lessened; if anything, it had grown.
"You’re awfully quiet," Commander Shar'El said, her voice snapping Gemma out of her thoughts.
The ILO met her gaze, her expression guarded. "Doesn’t this place feel wrong to you?"
The ExO paused for a moment before nodding. "The readings don’t match what we’re feeling. Stay alert."
As the team closed in onto the nearest pyramid, Gemma’s heightened senses were on full alert. The silence pressed in on her, and despite the lack of evidence, she knew they weren’t alone. Gemma’s unease tightened like a vice around her chest. The silence pressed in on her, and despite the lack of evidence, she knew they weren’t alone. Her sharp gaze flicked upward to the thick canopy above, narrowing as if daring the unseen threat to reveal itself.
-=-=-
Location: Unknown Planet, Higher in the jungle, near the away team
Stardate: 44354.2245
High above the jungle floor, perched on a thick branch that swayed slightly in the humid breeze, a silent observer watched the away team. Cloaked and motionless, the figure blended perfectly into its surroundings, the shimmering distortion of its advanced camouflage rendering it nearly invisible to the naked eye. It was a predator, a hunter, and the team below were its prey.
Through augmented reality vision, it studied them, analyzing their every move. Scanning lines of alien code flickered across its display, translating the tricorders’ signals, cataloging the team’s physiological readings, and tagging each member with identifying markers.
Its focus lingered on the smallest of the group. Her movements were sharp and deliberate, unlike the others, betraying a predator’s instinct hidden beneath her composed exterior. It recognized the subtle tension in her posture, the way her eyes scanned her surroundings as if sensing its presence. She wasn’t like the rest, she was a threat, a rival, and perhaps the most dangerous game of all.
For now, it would observe. Its mask tilted slightly, locking onto the nervous woman once more as she glanced up at the trees, her gaze almost meeting its own. The hunter froze, silent and still, as her eyes lingered just below its perch.
It watched as the team disappeared into the pyramid. Then, with a faint, almost imperceptible hiss, the hunter began to move, shadowing its prey.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
"Hunting The Hunter"
Previous post: "Unseen Enemies"
Setting: Unknown Planet, On the edge of the pyramid
Stardate: 44353.2300
The oppressive heat of the alien jungle clung to Ava Noiva’s skin as she followed the away team through the dense foliage. Towering trees with gnarled, iridescent roots arched overhead, casting shifting patterns of green and gold on the ground. The air was thick, and heavy with the mingling scents of damp earth and alien flora. Her tricorder hummed softly in her hand, displaying readings that stubbornly insisted the area was devoid of life. And yet, the hair on the back of her neck prickled with unease.
Ava’s piercing blue eyes flicked to the others. Commander Shar’El led the team, her stoic demeanor betraying no trace of apprehension. Lieutenant Gemma walked near the rear, her gaze sweeping the jungle with a sharpness that Ava couldn’t help but envy. Zub Enel, the hulking Marine, trudged at the center of the formation, his posture radiating vigilance. Adriana Lopez’s quiet presence was soothing, though Ava doubted even the counselor could quell the knot twisting in her stomach. And then there was Lieutenant A’Janni, his feline ears twitching as his sharp eyes darted toward every sound.
They all trusted the readings. They had no reason not to. But Ava knew better. She couldn’t shake the feeling that they weren’t alone.
The team emerged from the jungle onto a clearing dominated by four immense pyramids, their smooth stone surfaces glinting faintly in the dim light. The structures were ancient yet unmarred by the ravages of time. Ava’s tricorder still detected no life signs, but her instincts screamed otherwise. She suppressed the urge to glance at Gemma, knowing the other woman was already watching her too closely.
The team approached the largest pyramid, its sheer scale dwarfing them. At its base was an imposing stone door, sealed tight and adorned with vertical lines of alien text. The markings were intricate, glowing faintly in the twilight. Ava crouched, running a gloved hand along the ground as if inspecting the soil, but her real focus was on the tree line. The sensation of being watched grew stronger, like invisible eyes crawling over her skin. She forced herself to focus, maintaining the facade of calm professionalism. Gemma, however, wasn’t fooled. Ava could feel the Lieutenant’s gaze lingering, probing for cracks in her mask.
“No visible seams or controls,” Shar’El noted, stepping closer to the door. Her dark eyes scanned the alien text. “Any thoughts, Doctor?”
Ava straightened, smoothing her uniform. “Nothing conclusive. The markings suggest a form of advanced technology, but I can’t determine their purpose without further analysis.” It was a measured, clinical response—precisely what was expected of her. Inside, though, her thoughts churned. The markings felt... alive.
As Adriana leaned in for a closer look, the lines of text began to glow brighter, pulsing rhythmically. A low rumble reverberated through the ground as mechanisms deep within the pyramid groaned to life. The door cracked open with an earsplitting screech, revealing a narrow gap. The team exchanged wary glances.
“Zub, if you would,” Shar’El instructed.
The Marine stepped forward, planting his hands against the heavy stone. His muscles strained as he pushed, the door grinding open inch by inch. Ava stepped back, her eyes darting between the doorway and the jungle. Beside her, Gemma mirrored her movements, tricorder in hand.
“Do you feel that?” Gemma whispered, her voice low.
Ava hesitated, her practiced mask faltering for a fraction of a second. “Feel what?” she asked, feigning ignorance. She could sense it too—a presence, drawing closer, closing in.
Gemma’s lips twitched into the barest hint of a smirk, as if she saw through Ava’s pretense. But she said nothing, turning her attention back to the jungle. The foliage shifted, but there was no wind.
“Commander, we’re not alone,” A’Janni growled, his ears flattening against his head.
The team froze. Ava tightened her grip on the tricorder, resisting the urge to reach for the phaser at her side. Her heart raced, but she forced herself to remain outwardly composed. She couldn’t let her true abilities slip, not now. Not with Gemma watching so closely. Her mission from Admiral Koniki demanded discretion above all else.
As Zub forced the door wide enough to enter, a low, guttural sound echoed from the jungle. It was faint, almost imperceptible, but it sent a chill down Ava’s spine. The presence she had felt earlier was no longer distant. It was here, watching, waiting.
“Inside,” Shar’El ordered, her tone leaving no room for argument. The team moved quickly, stepping into the dark interior of the pyramid. Ava’s gaze lingered on the jungle for a moment longer before following the others. Whatever was out there was getting closer, and she had a sinking feeling they hadn’t seen the last of it.
=-=
Dawn Bohr
Lieutenant Ava Noiva
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
-=-=-
"Pyramids and Shadows"
Previous post: "Hunting The Hunter” by Dawn
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.2315
The tactical display flickered on the main screen of the USS ANUBIS, presenting a detailed view of the planet’s surface. Four massive pyramids stood ominously in a clearing surrounded by dense jungle. Lieutenant Ya'Han kept her focus on the away team's position markers as they steadily advanced through the foliage. Their mission was straightforward: conduct a preliminary survey of the ancient structures and ensure the area was secure for further exploration.
The task had been uneventful, that was until the away team entered the nearest pyramid. Without warning, the markers vanished from the display.
Ya'Han’s fingers darted across her console as she double-checked the logs, recalibrated the sensors, and ran a diagnostic. Nothing had changed; the connection with the away team was completely severed. Her pulse quickened, but her composure remained steady.
“Maya, I need you to check on the away team,” Ya'Han said, her voice sharp yet controlled.
From Stellar Cartography, Maya’s voice echoed over the comms. =/\= All readings confirm what you're seeing, Lieutenant. We've lost the away team. But… there's something odd. =/\=
“What is it?” Ya'Han asked.
=/\= The Terran life signs are still registering, granted faint but steady. No other anomalies are showing up on the scans. =/\=
"How is that possible?" Jayson asked from the Ops console. “How can we lose the away team once they enter the structure, but still detect their life signs inside it? Unless…”
Ya'Han narrowed her eyes at the tactical display. The Sec/Tac officer didn’t like this... not one bit. The loss of communication might have been caused by natural or artificial interference from the pyramid's structure. But the persistence of the life signs alone defied explanation. Unless, as Jayson now hinted, the entire situation was a deliberate ploy.
Glancing back at the empty quadrant of space surrounding the planet, Ya'Han’s instincts kicked in. "Initiating a full scan of the surrounding system," she announced, her hands moving swiftly over the controls to sweep for cloaked ships or incoming vessels.
“Anything?” Captain Morningstar asked from the central chair.
“Negative.” Ya'Han shook her head. “No energy readings, no vessel signatures. It’s clear, but…” She paused, her unease deepening.
“But you don’t think it’s that simple,” Morningstar finished for her, understanding her caution.
“No, sir.” Ya'Han’s expression hardened. “There’s something wrong about this planet. Its atmosphere is oxygen-rich. It has water and vegetation… but no wildlife. No birds, no animals—not even insects. It’s unnatural.” She glanced back at the data. “The entire ecosystem feels…” She searched for the right word. “Manufactured.”
Jayson, leaning against the Ops console, frowned. “If this is some kind of trap, then those life signs might not even be real. They could be a lure, designed to draw us in.”
“Agreed,” Ya'Han said grimly, her fingers running another diagnostic. “All evidence points to one conclusion: we’re being baited.”
Captain Morningstar considered the situation briefly before giving the inevitable order. “Raise shields. Red alert.”
The bridge lights dimmed to crimson, the klaxon echoing throughout the ship. Every officer moved with purpose, the weight of the unknown settling on their shoulders. Ya'Han’s jaw tightened as her focus sharpened. Whatever danger awaited them in the shadows of the ancient pyramids, she would ensure the safety of her crew and uncover the truth behind the mystery.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
"Shadow Legacy"
Previous post: "Pyramids and Shadows” by Hanali
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44354.2325
The away team had barely set foot inside the ancient pyramid when the sound of grinding stone echoed ominously through the air. All heads turned as a massive stone slab slid into place behind them, sealing off their only exit. The heavy thud reverberated through the group, leaving no doubts that there was no going back. The towering Voth, Lieutenant JG Zub Enel, immediately moved to test his strength against the barrier, his claws straining against the unyielding surface. But even his immense power proved no match for the ancient engineering.
"Communicators are being jammed," Lieutenant Gemma said, her tone sharp. The Intelligence Liaison Officer’s ever-watchful gaze scanned the area as she held up her non-responsive device. "No contact with the ANUBIS. We’re on our own."
Commander Shar’El’s expression remained calm, though her dark black eyes betrayed a flicker of unease. "Then forward it is. Maintain caution."
A low growl rumbled from Lieutenant JG A’Janni, the feline FCO’s ears twitching as he brought up the rear. Both Gemma and Doctor Ava Noiva had kept their suspicions of being watched and followed since their arrival unspoken, but A’Janni’s heightened senses were now exploring the possibility. Still, the rest of the team seemed focused on the mission: locating the faint Terran life signs that had drawn them here from orbit.
The pyramid’s interior was a labyrinth of narrow, dimly lit corridors, their maze-like design unsettlingly familiar to one among them. Counsellor Adriana Lopez faltered in her steps, her breath catching as a spectral figure appeared beside her. Amanda. Her twin sister, missing for decades but ever-present in these haunting visions, stood there, her voice a whisper only Adriana could hear.
"I’ve been here before," Amanda said, her tone laced with urgency. "I know the way, I think."
Adriana relayed the message to Shar’El, struggling to keep her voice steady. "Amanda says she recognizes this place. She can guide us."
Shar’El hesitated for only a moment. "Then let’s move. Tell her to lead the way."
Following Amanda’s vague and cryptic instructions, Adriana guided the team deeper into the pyramid. Every step felt heavier than the last as the oppressive air and the unsettling sense of being watched gnawed at their nerves. Finally, the team entered a cavernous chamber, the stone floor lined with rows upon rows of stasis pods. The glowing blue lights emanating from the pods cast eerie shadows across the room, but it was their designs that stunned the members of the team.
"I don't like this," Shar'El grumbled.
"I agree," the ILO said, her narrowed eyes scrutinizing the pods which bore an unsettling resemblance to the cloning pods once discovered on KTARIS. "These markings…" Gemma stepped closer, her sharp eyes focusing on the symbols etched into the pods and the walls. "They match those on the stone door outside, but these pods… they’re too similar to the Lokustaar technology we’ve encountered before."
The mere mention of the Lokustaar, aka the Shadows, sent a ripple of dread through the team. These malevolent beings had left their mark on too many worlds already, their insidious influence a constant threat. The possibility of their involvement here made the hair on the back of Adriana’s neck stand on end.
"Amanda," Adriana whispered, her voice trembling. "What is this place? What’s happening here?"
Her twin’s spectral form tilted its head, confusion evident in her ghostly features. "I don’t know these… Lokustaar you speak of."
Shar’El’s voice cut through the tension. "Gemma, Zub, A’Janni, secure the area. Ava, see if you can determine the function of these pods. Adriana, stay close."
As the team spread out, the unease in the room was palpable. The oppressive silence was broken only by the hum of the stasis pods, their faint vibrations resonating like a heartbeat. Every shadow seemed to move, every sound amplified in the minds of those present. They had found what they were searching for, but the true nature of this place and its connection to Amanda remained shrouded in darkness.
And somewhere in the labyrinth behind them, unseen but ever-present, the cloaked hunter waited, its calculated patience belying the chaos it was ready to unleash. For the away team, the pyramid had become more than just a place of discovery; it was now a trap, and their safety was anything but guaranteed.
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
"Shadows of the Mind"
Previous post: "Shadow Legacy"
Location: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44354.2340
The interior of the ancient pyramid was oppressively silent, save for the faint whispers that none of the away team dared acknowledge. Lieutenant Gemma’s boots crunched against the grainy stone floor as she followed her instincts. Her hand lingered over her phaser while her eyes scanned the occupants of the pods. Men and women, all of them Terrans, all of them asleep, but for what reason? Why were there what appeared to be cerebral scanners around their heads?
Whatever they were for, if the Lokustaar were involved in this...
The dimly lit void of her mindscape flickered as her other personalities began materializing. Each brought their own flair: Dalra, the no-nonsense Varro pilot, appeared in crisp flight gear; Wimdalli, the curious Uxali scientist, materialized clutching a glowing datapad; Anya Petrov, the Russian assassin, smirked darkly as she leaned against an invisible wall; and Gabrielle Wolfe, the German saboteur, paced restlessly like a caged predator.
More figures coalesced, from the serene form of Ema Fairchild to the flirtatious smile of Neri, and even Za’Ran, the elusive Nylaan infiltrator, who emerged silently from the shadows.
“The whispers,” Za’Ran said, breaking the silence. “You all hear them, yes?”
“Da,” Anya confirmed, her tone clipped. “I do not like whispers. They remind me of too many ghosts.”
“They’re not ghosts,” Wimdalli corrected, tapping on her datapad. “The frequency of the sound doesn’t match any known lifeform, at least not in this dimension. The Lokustaar, perhaps?”
A ripple of unease swept through the group at the mention of the name.
“Demons of Night,” murmured Ema Fairchild, her serene demeanor wavering. “If they are here, we are in grave danger. Their presence corrupts the very essence of light and life.”
“Superstition,” Gabrielle Wolfe scoffed, crossing her arms. “They’re just another enemy to sabotage.”
“Are you sure about that?” asked Finnja, the compassionate Dinaal nurse, her voice trembling. “Their legends speak of unspeakable horrors. If they’ve taken Adriana’s sister…”
“They have,” Lyric’s voice cut through like a blade. The voice of unity rarely appeared, but when it did, it commanded attention. “This pyramid is more than a trap. It’s a prison, one meant to enslave the mind as well as the body.”
“A prison for the mind?” Dalra’s tone was skeptical. “For what?”
“We’re wasting time,” Anya growled, pushing off the wall. “If the Lokustaar are here, we kill them. If not, we find the girls and leave. Simple.”
“It’s not that simple,” Ema said, her voice calm but firm. “You can’t fight shadows with brute force. They’re telepathic, and their power lies in fear. If we’re to face them, we must be united.”
“United?” Abrasivnyy sneered as she materialized, her aggressive energy almost palpable. “How are we supposed to be united when we can’t even agree on what’s in front of us?”
“Enough!” Gemma snapped, her voice cutting through the rising chaos. The arena fell silent as all eyes turned to her. “We don’t have the luxury of bickering. Whether the Lokustaar are involved or not, we need to focus. Our mission is to recover Adriana’s sister and Crithiane's daughter. We neutralize any threats if possible.”
“And if the Lokustaar are here?” Za’Ran pressed, her voice low.
Gemma hesitated, glancing at the flickering image of GAMMA, the enigmatic hologram that lingered at the edge of her mindscape.
“If they’re here,” Gemma said, “we adapt. We’ve done the impossible before, and we’ll do it again. But we’ll do it together.”
The flickering void steadied, and one by one, the personalities nodded in agreement. Even Abrasivnyy muttered a reluctant, “Fine.”
Gemma blinked, her focus snapping back to reality. The whispers seemed louder now, more insistent, but her mind was clear. She gripped her phaser tightly, and suddenly turned to aim it at the approaching MCO who quickly raised his hands, spreading his three fingers as wide as they could go, to show that he was not a threat.
There was a look of deep concern in his golden eyes, an expression that hinted at his thoughts for her, fear, worry, and something else... as if he had somehow been aware of what had just transpired in the darkest recesses of her mind.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
“Shadow Glow”
Previous post: “Shadows of the Mind” by Rachel
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44354.2345
The tall Voth spoke softly to Gemma, his deep voice measured but tense. “I noticed something about you we should discuss,” he said, glancing quickly around the room. “But it’ll have to wait. Right now, I need your help figuring out how we’re being watched. There’s something... off about this place.”
The Information Liaison Officer narrowed her eyes up at Zub Enel, studying him for a moment before responding. “There is something about this place,” Gemma finally agreed, her voice low. “I can feel it... in my blood.”
Her gaze drifted toward A’Janni, the hulking Flight Control Officer. His fur bristling as if he could sense the unspoken danger. The Caitian’s flattened ears betrayed his unease.
A’Janni’s pulled him back to the cruel and deadly Lokustaar. He silently hoped the stasis pods around them were borrowed technology, not part of another Lokustaar plot.
Noticing their attention, A’Janni moved toward Gemma and Zub, his fur refusing to lay flat. His gait was purposeful as he approached. The towering lizard-like Voth had begun examining a section of polished stone wall tiles with meticulous precision.
A’Janni growled softly, directing his words at Zub. “You’ve got that sensitive nose. Maybe you can help me.”
Zub Enel turned his crested head toward the Caitian, his rough scales and fluttering down betraying his own stress. “You need help tracking a scent?” the Voth asked, his deep voice steady but tinged with concern.
“Yes,” A’Janni replied, his ears twitching. “I can hear something that shouldn’t be there. It’s faint, barely a whisper, but it sounds like metal clicking on metal. It’s not natural.”
Zub’s heavy brow furrowed with interest. “Perhaps one of the stasis pods has malfunctioned.”
“The noise stopped the moment I came to stand near you,” A’Janni said, his one-eyed gaze locking onto Zub’s golden eyes. “Maybe it’s your claws that need trimming.”
Despite his unease, Zub allowed himself a brief smile at the jab, though the mention of the Lokustaar still haunted him. He couldn’t shake the feeling that they’d ‘escaped’ into a carefully set trap.
A’Janni squinted up at the Voth, then turned his attention to Gemma. “You feel it too, don’t you?” he pressed. “We’re being watched. Right now. In here.” His ears twitched, swiveling toward every imagined sound.
Zub gazes wept over the rows of softly glowing stasis pods. “If I were cloaked, where would I hide? Between the pods? On top of one?”
The word cloaked sent a shiver through Gemma’s mind, and for a moment, she felt unsteady. Her hand reached out instinctively, fingers brushing the softly glowing markings of a nearby pod.
A voice echoed in her mind, one she recognized yet had never heard before. “The Jem’Hadar, the Lokustaar, and the Yautja,” it whispered, the words flowing like an icy breeze. “They all have one thing in common.”
A’Janni growled, pulling Gemma’s focus back to the room. He asked, “Who said it’s a person? It could be imagers, monitors, or some other surveillance tech.”
Zub shrugged, his massive shoulders rippling with tension. “But if it is a person, where are they hiding?”
“It is a person, a thing,” Gemma said, her voice sharp, cutting through the debate. “Using personal cloaking ability, like the kind the Jem’Hadar use. Something is here, watching us, studying us, figuring out the best way to strike.”
A’Janni’s one remaining eye scanned the humming pods before drifting upward toward the sharply slanted ceiling, which peaked high above in a pyramid shape. “Very feline of you,” Zub remarked, noticing the Caitian’s upward focus. “Always looking high.”
A’Janni smirked faintly but didn’t respond, already searching for any signs of distortion or movement. Cloaking devices weren’t always perfect—sometimes a ripple or shimmer betrayed their presence. He might need to borrow a tricorder for confirmation.
The three split up, each walking slowly across the room, their eyes scanning every corner. A’Janni froze mid-step, his gaze locking onto a ripple near the apex of the pyramid. He blinked deliberately, ensuring his vision wasn’t playing tricks. The ripple moved, just barely, as the cloaking device adjusted.
Zub, noticing A’Janni’s sudden stillness, approached cautiously. Following the Caitian’s gaze, he aimed his phaser upward, just in case. “Let’s kill it and eat it,” he muttered, his tone both grim and provoking.
A’Janni didn’t react, his focus unbroken. Whoever, or whatever, it was, they weren’t afraid. They were the hunters here.
“I can’t hear it anymore,” A’Janni growled softly.
“I can’t smell it either,” Zub added, his voice uneasy.
“It’s cloaked,” Gemma reminded them, her voice firm. “Set your phasers to the widest spread possible and the lowest resonance frequency.”
“That wouldn’t even stun a sleeping Ferengi,” Zub countered.
“The goal isn’t to stun... it’s to disrupt the cloaking field,” Gemma explained. “Sweep the room. Now.”
The three officers fired, their phaser beams crisscrossing the room in wide arcs. A sudden metallic thud drew their attention to a specific pod. The moment the beam swept over the area, a shimmering form appeared.
The cloaking field failed, revealing a massive armored figure, nearly as large as the Voth. The battle-worn armor glinted under the pod lights as the hunter leapt away, bounding from pod to pod with terrifying speed. It had lost the element of surprise and retreated for now, but the crew knew it would return.
“What was that?” Shar’El demanded as she entered, her eyes darting between the group.
“That,” Gemma said, exhaling sharply, “was a Yautja.” Her gaze dropped to her hand, still tingling from the pod markings she’d touched. “And it’s been following us since we arrived.”
“How do you know that?” Zub asked, his eyes narrowing.
Gemma clenched her hand into a fist, her voice quieter but no less certain. “I don’t know. I… don’t… know. But what I do know is that we’re in more trouble than we realize.”
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
=-=
And
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant JG A'Janni
Flight Control Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
=-=
And
=-=
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
“There is nothing in the dark that isn't there when the lights are on.”
—Rob Serling
"Matrix of Shadows"
Previous post: "Shadow Glow"
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0010
Ava rushed to join the others after seeing something bounce off the pod and out of the room. Despite its size, or at least what the CMO had been able to see of it, the creature had moved with the swiftness of a skilled and deadly hunter... making it exceptionally dangerous.
"What was that?" Doctor Noiva demanded, looking at Gemma, Zub, and A'Janni as if they had somehow opened the gates of hell and allowed a demon to escape.
"That was a Yautja," Gemma half growled. "It was following us since we beamed down. It's a hunter and something that we do not want to have to deal with."
"How do you know this?" Ava questioned, glaring at the ILO as if she had lost her mind. "Did you manage to speak to it before it decided to fly out of here?"
"I... I don't know," Gemma hesitantly replied while looking at her hand. "I just touched one of those pods and the information just came to me."
"For the time being, let's not touch any of the pods," Shar'El cautiously offered, taking a half-step to put more distance between her and the nearest pod.
Ava studied Gemma through narrowed eyes, not dismissing the woman's claim but trying to understand how it could have happened. Could her nanites have allowed the ILO to link with the pods or even the pyramid's control system allowing her to gain precious intel on those that were operating this facility?
"Well, since I am not able to mind-meld with the pods, I had to do things the old-fashioned way," Noica grumbled. "Although the pods bear an uncanny resemblance to the ones used by the Lokustaar back on KTARIS, these are not used for cloning. The neural band around each of the occupants of the pods would indicate that they are being used for their cerebral activities. I just have not been able to determine why this would be needed."
"Based on the technology we have witnessed thus far," Shar'El said nervously looking around, "they should possess the computing capabilities to do whatever this neural link could accomplish."
"Survival instinct," Gemma said, shifting her gaze onto the occupant of the nearest pod. "A computer, no matter how sophisticated, would not be able to compute the core basic need of a living being."
There was a short pause as everyone considered the implication of what had just been said.
"Amanda is saying that she has been experiencing an overwhelming desire to survive for as long as she can remember," Adriana said, the look on her face showing how troubled the revelation was.
"It also matches the strong feelings and emotions that accompanied the memories I saw from Captain Morningstar and Lieutenant Stark, " the ExO added. "They are using these Terrans to feed some sort of survival subroutine into a computer, but why?"
"Training," Gemma said, almost smiling. "Just ask Ya'Han how difficult it is to create a truly challenging training program, even on the ANUBIS. The computer can only draw on a limited set of variables, and over time both she and I have learned to figure out the algorithm. Yes, we can increase the speed or strength of an opponent, but the computer cannot recreate the desperation or the overwhelming desire to survive, causing an opponent to act beyond all reasonable and anticipated expectations." The ILO paused as she looked at the countless pods neatly set in rows in the room. "This is the source of the ultimate training matrix."
"They are using Amanda for training?!?" Adriana gasped in horror.
"Not her," Ava countered, "but her mind, all of their minds."
"We need to free these people from this fate," A'Janni said, the Caitian showing an eagerness to start ripping every pod apart."
"I am afraid that it is not that simple," the CMO said. "I have no way to tell how disconnecting someone from this matrix will affect them. If their autonomous biological and/or neurological responses are directly linked to the system, taking them out could kill them. We need more information. The fact that Gemma was able to link with the system by simply touching a pod does not make things any simpler, hinting at a much broader interface system."
"Agreed," Shar'El noted. "We need to explore this pyramid further and see what else we can uncover. Keep your eyes open for our cloaked friend, I suspect that he will be back, sooner rather than later, so we have to move."
"What about Amanda?" The Counselor asked, Lopez almost in tears.
"We will find her," Zub reassured, "and we will save her. Right now, we need to focus on figuring out this matrix before anything else. Looking for Amanda and Christie would only delay us in the long run."
As the away team filed out of the room, Ava took a moment to glance at her hand, in a similar fashion that Gemma did. What troubled the CMO was that she had touched multiple pods but had not experienced anything that resembled what the ILO had described. Was this an indication of the Operative's failing nanites or was it something else?
=-=
Dawn Bohr
Lieutenant Ava Noiva
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
-=-=-
"Fear of Shadows"
Previous post: "Matrix of Shadows” by Dawn
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44355.0010
The atmosphere on the bridge of the USS ANUBIS was oppressively heavy as Ya'Han tightened her grip on the edge of her station, her crimson-streaked black hair cascading around her face. Frustration boiled just beneath her carefully maintained exterior. This blend of helplessness and foreboding was something she thought she had learned to manage after all these years. Yet, staring at the empty sensor readouts before her, she felt that same shadowy chill creeping back into her thoughts.
The away team was silent. Not a word had come through the comms since they’d entered the enigmatic pyramid. It wasn't just communications, the ANUBIS' sensors, usually fine-tuned enough to detect microscopic shifts in subspace fields, offered no insight. No readings of interest surfaced on the planet, no anomalies flared in the space around it. That utter nothingness, Ya'Han knew, was the most dangerous sign of all.
Her fingers danced over the tactical controls as she launched another scan of the area. She sharpened the ANUBIS' focus as tightly as the instruments allowed, scrutinizing for anything out of place. All she could rely on were faint echoes and occasional reports of faint visual distortions. Such phenomena, though fleeting, called up a specific fear. Cloaked ships? Perhaps. But Romulans were unlikely to be in this dimension. The nagging suspicion gnawed at her resolve, her memories supplying a much grimmer possibility.
The Lokustaar.
The cold chill of recognition prickled her spine. The enigmatic, cruel entities her people likened to living nightmares had a knack for luring the unwary into a false sense of security before striking. Those faint, tantalizing Terran life signs within the pyramid... out of place and weak... suddenly seemed like the perfect bait to draw in the curious. Knowing their history, it was almost too perfect.
“Shadow Mistress,” the Nylaan whispered with a trembling breath. The mocking voice whispered unbidden in her mind, a chilling echo from her past. Ya'Han could almost see those emotionless black eyes, cold and calculating, staring through her as if she were nothing more than a pawn. The memory of Mordana, the Lokustaar operative whose cruelty knew no bounds, tightened like a vice around her thoughts. She drew a sharp breath, forcing herself to focus. Fear had its place, but she knew too well the cost of letting it take control. Not again..
When her latest scan revealed no ships, Ya'Han turned toward the command chair. “Captain, still nothing within the sector. I recommend we increase long-range sensitivity. If they’re cloaked, I want to catch their distortion before they get close.”
Morningstar’s sharp gaze met hers. "Noted, Lieutenant. Keep at it." His calm demeanor provided reassurance, but Ya'Han caught a faint edge in his voice. He wasn’t immune to the same unease she felt.
Her console chirped with fresh results, a new layer of sensor feedback that revealed just enough data to remain ambiguous. A subtle ripple, another distortion, or a fragment of something unidentifiable. She rechecked. Another distortion, closer this time, faint and almost dismissed as nothing by the algorithms.
“They’re testing us,” she muttered. “Just like before.” She didn’t need the voice in her mind to tell her what the Lokustaar were capable of. The shadows knew patience; they knew how to instill fear before the killing blow.
"Runabout ISIS is still waiting for departure clearance," Jayson said from the Operations station. "The Viper escort is also ready for launch."
"Captain," Ya'Han quickly interjected. "I strongly suggest we hold off on any launches at this time. If the Lokustaar are indeed out there, they would not have any issues destroying the runabout and the vipers."
"There’s no proof that the Lokustaar are out there," Jayson huffed, taking Ya'Han’s single-minded focus on the race as a sign that she was thinking about them and possibly the clone they had created a little too much.
"There is something out there," the Nylaan strongly stated. "We all know it, we all feel it." Ya'Han took a moment to calm herself, seeing the locks of hair in view quickly changing to full bright red. "I'm sorry if I seem bent on thinking that the possibility of those cloaked ships belong to the Lokustaar, the alternative is that they are from another race, one that could possibly be even worse."
"Worse than the Lokustaar?" Jayson said, his voice faltering
"Commander Shar'El and the others can take care of themselves for the time being," the Captain said. "Let us not risk putting anyone else in danger for the moment. Stay vigilant and try to get us as much information as possible."
Ya'Han returned her attention to her tactical displays. **What do you want?** She thought grimly, knowing no answer would come until the time to act had already passed.
Focused yet wary, Ya'Han scoured the blank voids of space again, fighting off memories and anticipation as the tension on the bridge swelled. If they were truly facing the Lokustaar or something worse, the hardest truth was simple, survival demanded they uncover the game before they were consumed by it.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
=-=
"Into the Shadows"
Previous post: "Fear of Shadows" by the always amazing Hanali
=-=
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0030
Commander Shar'El led the away team deeper into the dimly lit corridors of the labyrinth, with Lieutenant JG A'Janni taking point. She hoped that his heightened night vision and keen sense of hearing would play a vital role in keeping them on track and safe. The structure’s eerie silence was broken only by the occasional scrape of boots against the stone floor. Every shadow seemed alive, and every corner a potential ambush. The Yautja predator stalking them remained unseen but ever-present, its initial terrifying appearance weighing heavily on the team.
The discovery of the stasis pod room had proven to be a bittersweet victory. Each pod held a Terran, their minds tethered to a system of the Yautja’s design that the away team was still trying to understand. The team had determined that forcibly removing the individuals would almost certainly kill them, leaving Shar'El and her crew with a critical objective: find a way to safely sever the connection and rescue the captives.
As they cautiously made their way through the shadowy corridors, Shar'El’s mind raced through possibilities, trying to anticipate what they might come up against. Her dark eyes flicked from wall to wall, searching for patterns or clues that might offer insights.
The existence of one room filled with stasis pods suggested the possibility of similar chambers in the other pyramids. The perception of the Yautja’s methods was too meticulous for such an arrangement to be random. Could each pyramid house its own group of captives? That possibility alone reinforced the ExO's belief that they needed to press on rather than divert to search for Amanda and Christie first.
Although the pyramids appeared isolated on the surface, the Ullian officer couldn’t shake the feeling that an underground network might link them. Such tunnels would provide the Yautja with an elaborate facility, endless possibilities for training chambers, and possibly lead to a central control hub. The implications were daunting, but Shar'El knew the team had no choice but to move forward.
"There is a fork up ahead," A'Janni announced, his voice low but steady. "By the looks of things, the right path leads down while the left goes up." The team stopped, gathering around the intersection. Zub Enel, who had been bringing up the rear, scanned the shadows behind them, his sharp eyes searching for any sign that they were being followed. His grip on his weapon tightened as he listened for sounds beyond the group’s movements.
Lieutenant Gemma, ever resourceful, focused on deciphering the softly glowing green alien hieroglyphs etched into the walls. These markings offered tantalizing glimpses into the Yautja’s culture and purpose, though actionable insights remained elusive. Using her previous experience as a cautionary tale, the ILO made sure not to touch the markings, keeping her hands clear from them or the wall they were etched into. Her diligence was noted by Doctor Ava Noiva, who observed Gemma’s work with quiet curiosity, and by Counsellor Adriana Lopez, who stood nearby, her focus split between the task at hand and her own growing anxiety about her sister’s fate.
"We go right," Gemma announced after a moment, her tone firm. It was clear the ILO had weighed the pros and cons of each path in a lengthy internal debate before reaching her decision.
Ava frowned but held her tongue, her training and instincts warning her of the potential dangers of descending deeper into the pyramid. She glanced at Shar'El, who gave a subtle nod, silently affirming the decision. Adriana, on her end, seemed relieved to be moving again. Each step, she hoped, would bring her closer to reuniting with her twin sister.
As the team moved down the right-hand path, Zub fell back slightly to ensure their rear was secure. "I don’t like this," he muttered to Shar'El. "Feels like we’re being funneled."
Shar'El nodded but kept her thoughts to herself. Zub’s instincts often proved invaluable, and she would remain vigilant for any sign of a trap. Meanwhile, A'Janni’s focus at the front remained unwavering. His feline ears twitched at the faintest sounds, and his sharp gaze scanned the path ahead.
"Stay sharp," Shar'El instructed the group, her voice calm yet firm. "We don’t know what’s waiting for us."
Gemma paused briefly to examine another set of glyphs, her expression one of intense concentration. Ava leaned closer, her medical tricorder in hand, scanning for any residual energy that might indicate a trap. Adriana took a steadying breath, her hand instinctively reaching to grab hold of something that was not there, likely her sister's hand.
With every step, the weight of their mission grew heavier. Each decision carried potential life-or-death consequences, not just for the away team but for the Terrans trapped within the pods. Yet, despite the danger, Shar'El felt a glimmer of hope. If they could navigate the maze of dangers and uncover the secrets of the pyramid complex, they might still achieve the impossible.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
"Voices From The Shadows"
Previous post: "Into the Shadows"
Location: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0040
Where smooth stone walls met the flat ceiling of the dark and enigmatic corridor, faint glowing lines traced geometric patterns, their eerie light casting ghostly reflections across the passageway. Shadows flickered with each pulse of luminescence, as though the very structure were alive, silently watching the intruders. The air was thick with an ancient tang, carrying whispers of secrets buried deep within the pyramid's core.
As Gemma walked with the away team through the dimly lit corridors of the ancient alien facility, her gaze kept drifting to the softly glowing green hieroglyph-like carvings etched into the walls. They pulsed faintly, as though alive with secrets older than the Federation itself. The same markings had adorned the stasis pod, markings that, when touched, had granted her an unsettling and intimate knowledge of the Yautja and the workings of this mysterious facility. She hadn’t asked for this knowledge, hadn’t sought it out, but it had been seared into her mind the moment her skin made contact with those glowing symbols.
Now, as her boots echoed against the stone floor, she found herself inwardly distracted, her thoughts spiraling into a cacophony of voices. Each personality clamored to weigh in on what had happened, on what it meant for them... for her.
"Knowledge is power," Gemma asserted firmly, her voice sharp and cutting. "We now possess intel on a potential adversary that few others could ever hope to acquire. This is an advantage, and advantages are meant to be exploited."
"At what cost?" Ema's voice was gentle but resolute. "This knowledge was not given freely; it was forced upon us. We were violated by those markings. The universe has rules, and when you break them, you pay a price."
"Oh, spare me the sanctimonious nonsense," Gabrielle sneered. "Knowledge is never clean. It’s messy, it’s dirty, and it’s usually stolen. We didn’t ask for it, sure, but now that it’s in our head, we use it. End of story."
"The implications are fascinating," Wimdalli mused, her tone brimming with excitement. "What if those markings are a form of direct neural interface technology? They could unlock memories, transfer entire databases! Think of the possibilities! We have to study this further."
"It’s dangerous," Finnja cautioned, her voice trembling. "This knowledge is like a wound that won’t heal. What if it’s changing us, altering who we are? We have to be careful."
"Careful gets you killed," Anya growled, her Russian accent echoing through the void like an approaching storm. "We’re stronger now. Faster. Smarter. I don’t care how this knowledge got here—it’s ours now, and we’ll use it to survive."
"We’re fragmented," Lyric said softly, her voice carrying a melodic cadence. "This knowledge has driven a wedge between us. We need to come together, not tear ourselves apart. What happened is done; now we must decide how we move forward."
Gemma's breath caught in her throat. Lyric’s words hit home. They weren’t just fractured; they were breaking. The knowledge that had been forced upon them wasn’t just information—it was invasive, insidious, like a virus rewriting their very essence.
But Lyric was right. They had to find a way to reconcile this, to harness the knowledge without letting it consume them.
Taking a steadying breath, Gemma resolved to focus. The mission was still underway, and distractions could be deadly. But inwardly, the debate raged on, unresolved.
And somewhere, in the flickering shadows of her mind, a faint, glitching presence lingered... GAMMA. The enigma. The glitch. Watching, waiting, and perhaps knowing more about the implications of this knowledge than any of them could fathom.
Gemma’s lips pressed into a thin line. The battle for control within her was far from over, but one thing was clear: this knowledge was changing her.
And she had to figure out if she could survive that transformation. That was when, in the most distant shadows of her thoughts, a whisper, soft and elusive, surfaced.
"The wind carves mountains, the tide reshapes shores," the voice murmured, tinged with a cryptic calm. "What remains unchanged when even the stars are not spared?"
Gemma shivered. She knew Kael was part of her, but the woman’s role, being nothing more than a shadow, remained shrouded in mystery. For now, it was one more enigma to contend with.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
=-=
“Rabbit Hole”
Previous post: “Voices From The Shadows” by Rachel
=-=
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0042
The away team was supposed to be searching for Terrans inside what appeared to be alien pyramids. A straightforward enough mission... until it wasn’t.
A'Janni led the team down a shadow-filled narrow corridor, the likes of which would have the perfect setting for more than a few nightmares. If this was a training facility as Gemma suggested, the Yautja were certainly not wasting any resources embellishing the place.
"Would be nice if they put up a few arrows to show the way," the Caitian grumbled.
"You need arrows to follow a straight corridor?" Zub fired back from the rear of the line. "I thought you were an expert tracker."
"Focus you two!" Gemma snaps
The away team arrives in a small room with three stone doorways on each of the other walls for a total of 9, but no doors, only a sealed doorway. The doorways are inscribed with the same softly glowing markings seen before.
A'Janni carefully places his hand in the center of one of the doorways but nothing happens. "Great, so how do we open these?"
Zub stepped closer. "We open them by using our brains, so step aside, you are clearly lacking the appropriate tools for the job." As Zub pushes A'Janni to one side, the Caitian's hand touches some of the glowing symbols and both A'Janni and Zub are pulled into the now active doorway which instantly seals behind them.
Years of sparring with A’Janni and Ya’Han kicked in as the floor had suddenly tilted Zub into empty space. Falling. Face down. In the gloom, twin trails of glowing symbols converged to a point below. A pit! The Voth knew this without thinking. The sharp spike of surprise and fright triggered his honed instincts. In mere slivers of a second, he straightened himself out fully. His clawed hands scraped a wall. His boot toes did the same. He thrust his hands forward and boots backward. He jammed himself to a halt, wedged between opposite walls of the pit. He grunted from the sudden stop. A smile began.
A'Janni hit his back like a ten-ton Andorian Bull. The hit tore the flesh on Zub’s palms as he strained mightily to stay horizontal. A’Janni’s body rolled off. Zub felt helpless terror. His friend was falling in darkness into a pit with who-knows-what waiting at the bottom.
A’Janni’s claws sank deep into Zub’s meaty buttocks and lower back.
Zub grimaced and struggled to hold the Caitian’s considerable weight as the claws sank deeper. He panted, “Ow?”
"See," the Caitian said, breathing heavily, "arrows would have been nice. Now, enough joking around... what happened?"
"We fell into a pit," Zub hissed. "And we are a few seconds away from finishing that fall."
Understanding the seriousness of their predicament, A'Janni quickly looked around to see if there were any edges that he could take advantage of. Spotting something a meter or so below their current position, the feline FCO withdrew his claws from the reptilian's backside and leaped toward the small ledge, which quickly appeared to be much smaller than he had initially hoped it to be.
The Caitian's claws dug into the stone surface just enough to halt his descent into the pit. The pain of the impact rushed through his muscles but the alternative, that of falling to an unknown fate, proved to be far less appealing. "And for our next trick?"
"Up is not an option," Zub said, not liking the idea of trying to climb up the walls and risking falling back down again, causing a repeat of what had just happened. "So, you go down and catch me?"
"Down it is," A'Janni sighed. "Together."
Zub could hear faint friction noises as the Caitian cat man eased himself down. The scaly Voth’s punctured backside ached with each sliding step he made as he boot-hand-walked between the wall and their glowing symbols. His arm muscles were on fire. His thigh muscles knotted. “This version of the Horizontal Mambo is no fun at all.”
A’Janni’s deep voice was ragged from panting from the exertion. “Touching the floor might trigger something.” He stopped to consider options. Zub’s body pressed into his back. “Hey! Get off me!”
“Sorry.” Zub bent into a small upward curve to pull himself off his furry friend’s back. “If this is a death pit….” He panted hard to catch his breath. “There might be some sort of clean-out or opening.”
“Or something alive that eats us and pukes up our bones.”
“You will be the first to know that.” Zub’s smile became a grimace from the effort of holding himself against the walls. “Scoot to your right. I will scoot left. There might be an opening or a doorway we can trigger.”
“Yes, your triggering went so well last time.”
Both took a moment to gather their strength and breath before making a proverbial leap of faith. With an unceremonious thud, their feet landed on a ledge, just barely wide enough to accommodate their feet, in the center was a single square tile which had not been visible to them before. As they looked at each other with wide eyes and a sense of satisfaction, they noticed another doorway similar to the one that had started this entire 'fall from grace'. Zub and A'Janni carefully studied the softly glowing markings that were appearing.
"Are those the same markings as before?" The Voth asked.
"Sorry, I did not take the time to memorize the first set before being sucked down this death pit," the Caitian sighed. "What's the worst that could happen? Round 2!"
"Deeper pit," Zub said, shaking his head. "Wider walls... or maybe narrower... Either way, I can think of a few ways that this could get worse."
"Like being stuck here with you?" The FCO chuckled. "I'll take my chances with whatever is behind that doorway," and with that A'Janni touched the markings trying to mimic the way he had inadvertently done so the first time.
Just like before, the two imposing figures were pulled into the doorway, this time appearing in front of a very concerned looking Commander Shar'El and the rest of the away team.
"Where were you?" The ExO demanded, but before either one could offer an account of their unexpected fall, Gemma stepped in, the ILO clearly furious.
"YOU DO NOT TOUCH THOSE MARKINGS!"
Zub and A'Janni briefly glanced at one another before the Caitian whispered, "Was this one of the ways you imagined would be worse?"
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant JG A'Janni
Flight Control Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
=-=
AND
=-=
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
“We have now sunk to a depth at which restatement of the obvious is the first duty of intelligent men”
- George Orwell
-=-=-
"Haunting Shadows"
Previous post: "Rabbit Hole” by David and Jayson
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44355.0045
Ya'Han stood at the Tactical station on the bridge of the USS ANUBIS, her sharp black-and-red hair swaying faintly as her fingers darted across the controls. Her gaze was fixed on the display, scanning for any trace of a cloaked vessel. She was certain the Lokustaar were out there, watching, waiting. No sensor readings corroborated her intuition, but the unrelenting feeling gnawed at her, a chilling dread clawing at her insides. Memories of their captive 'living shadow,' restrained yet eerily defiant under the scientists' probing on NEW ALEXANDRIA, haunted her. The image of its sinister, red, small orb-like eyes glaring at her as if silently vowing revenge refused to leave her mind.
The sound of the lift doors momentarily drew her attention as Maya entered the bridge. The Shillian scientist carried a padd, her expression a mix of concern and curiosity. "There is no definitive sign of a cloaked ship, assuming, of course, that cloaking technology in this dimension operates along the principles we currently understand," Maya began. "However, there are peculiar anomalies, signals on hyper-high frequency bands. They are unlike anything we have encountered, possibly telepathic, but they do not register on our systems. I thought it worth investigating since all other methods have proven futile. Whatever is blocking our sensors from scanning the pyramids and locating our away team is highly advanced."
Ya'Han took the padd and examined the recorded transmission file. On the surface, it seemed inconsequential, faint traces of data and faint distortions that would have normally been ignored had it been anyone other than Maya doing the research. Still, her instincts screamed for the Sec/Tac to push further. Following an impulsive and inexplicable notion, she initiated playback on an open audio channel.
What followed was beyond comprehension.
A nightmarish, unearthly screech filled Ya'Han's mind. It bypassed her ears, drilling directly into her psyche, a language of utter chaos and absolute despair. Her entire body stiffened as agony overwhelmed her. Clutching her temples, she staggered back from the console, unable to endure the relentless psychic assault. Dropping to her knees, she gritted her teeth, her breaths coming in shallow gasps. Alarmed bridge officers rushed to her aid as Maya quickly tapped her communicator.
"Bridge to Sickbay... medical emergency!"
It took less than a minute for the CMO to arrive on the bridge, but for Ya'Han those seconds registered as an endless eternity of unimaginable agony.
Ya'Han’s torment did not ease until Maya, realizing what was happening, hurriedly terminated the playback. As the oppressive screeching ceased, Ya'Han collapsed fully, trembling in Doctor Andersson’s arms as she knelt by the Nylaan. The Tactical Officer's steadfast vigilance had exposed her to an unimaginable danger, confirming her deepest fears. The Lokustaar's reach extended further than anyone aboard could have imagined.
Tears streamed down Ya'Han’s face, and her hair turned completely black, its shade matching the despair that enveloped her. She fixed her anguished gaze on Doctor Andersson.
"They are here," Ya'Han whispered weakly.
"Who?" the CMO asked, her voice filled with urgency and worry as she sought the cause of this overwhelming reaction.
"The Shadows... they are here," Ya'Han murmured through trembling lips. "And they are beyond angry."
Doctor Andersson's heart ached for Ya'Han. The Nylaan had always been a pillar of strength and resolve, making her current state all the more devastating to witness. With only one course of action left, Sofia reached for a hypospray and gently pressed it to the woman's neck. The sedative worked instantly, and Ya'Han went limp in her arms.
"I'm taking her to Sickbay," Sofia announced firmly.
Jayson, watching in silent anguish, immediately stepped forward. "I’ll carry her," he offered. With steady hands but a breaking heart, he gently lifted the unconscious Tactical Officer, cradling her protectively as they headed into the turbolift.
As the trio disappeared, Captain Morningstar returned his attention to the main viewscreen. A profound unease settled over him. If Ya'Han’s instincts were right, and they so often were, the Lokustaar were far closer than he had dared hope they’d ever be to the ANUBIS and its crew again.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
=-=
"Mind Shadows"
Previous post: "Haunting Shadows" by the imaginative Hanali
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44355.0100
Sickbay was calm until the doors parted, revealing Jayson Stark carrying Ya'Han in his arms. Concern etched across his face, he hurried toward the main examination table where Dr. Sofia Andersson was already preparing her medical equipment. Ya'Han, who had been sedated following an episode on the bridge, lay still, her normally fiery spirit subdued as evidenced by her now pitch-black hair.
"Just put her down on the main diagnostic table," Sofia said, still out of breath from having run ahead of the couple. With a gentle gesture, the Doctor guided Jayson to gently place Ya'Han down.
"What caused this breakdown?" He quietly asked, his voice tinged with worry. "She mentioned the Lokustaar just before collapsing."
Sofia's brow furrowed as she began her examination. "The Lokustaar? I hope they are not involved in any of this," Sofia said, concern lacing her words. "Let me think... They’re telepathic… but Nylaan physiology isn’t wired for telepathy. I am going to have to check back with Maya to get a better picture of what happened before she collapsed."
As Sofia worked to figure the situation, Cristhiane slowly and cautiously approached, her curiosity piqued by the commotion. "Another bridge incident?" she asked casually, referring to an earlier conversation where Sofia had mentioned the Tzenkethi attack on the ANUBIS.
Sofia nodded, keeping her tone calm. "Something along those lines. Nothing to worry about just yet." The CMO's professionalism stood as a reassurance to the Terran woman, allowing the Doctor to proceed with the examination. A full battery of scans and tests were performed, all revealed nothing out of the ordinary until Ya'Han began to stir. Her breathing suddenly quickened, and her eyes fluttered open. "The Lokustaar…" she murmured. "I saw them. Their eyes… those eight red orbs... they are watching us."
The description sent a chill through the room. Cristhiane instinctively took a step back, her expression shifting from curiosity to unease. Sofia noticed immediately.
"What is it, Cristhiane?" The ANUBIS' head physician asked, silently chastising herself for having allowed the civilian to remain to observe.
The woman hesitated, then spoke in a trembling voice, her words almost lost. "I think I’ve seen those same eyes. In my dreams. Eight glowing eyes, in two nearly parallel vertical rows of four." She glanced at Ya'Han, then Sofia, tears threatening to overtake her already shaky composure. "Those dreams are what led me to the ALPHA-KRAILIN SECTOR… in search of my daughter."
The air grew heavy with tension as Sofia processed the revelation. Two separate accounts of the same haunting imagery, an unsettling connection between Ya'Han’s telepathic assault and Cristhiane’s inexplicable visions.
Sofia steadied herself, her professional demeanor taking over. "We’ll figure this out," she said firmly, addressing both Jayson and Cristhiane. "For now, let's focus on Ya'Han. She needs rest and stability."
But as Sofia resumed her work, a lingering question hung unspoken in the room: Were these visions and dreams a coincidence, or were the Lokustaar’s proverbial shadows reaching further than anyone realized?
Anderson waited for Cristhiane to be escorted back to her bed by Jayson. "Computer, run a full neurological scan of Lieutenant Ya'Han, focussing on the region associated with long-term memories. Search for anything abnormal, no matter how small.
The computer beeped and chimed before offering its unemotional report. =/\= No anomalies detected. =/\=
Sofia was evidently not happy with the medical report, so she began exploring other options as she scanned the room. A thought came to her mind as her gaze fell on the rescued Terran woman. "Computer, were there any anomalies detected in Cristhiane's cerebral scan?"
=/\= No anomalies detected. =/\=
Andersson pressed her lips tightly together. This puzzle was slowly getting to her. "All right, let's try something different. Compare the neurological pathways of both subjects and identify all matches."
=/\= The comparison will take at least an hour, =/\= the computer warned.
"Proceed," Sofia ordered. Granted it was a long shot. Neurological pathways were as diverse as fingerprints, and that was when comparing subjects from the same race. Now, she was comparing the cerebral structure of a Terran and Nylaan, something that should be nothing more than a futile waste of time.. but what if she did find something?
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
=-=
"Conflicting Shadows"
Previous post: "Mind Shadows" by the single-minded Tiffany
=-=
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0100
The unexpected but welcome return of Zub and A'Janni allowed the away team to breathe a momentary sigh of relief, though given their current predicament, "relief" was a relative term. Trapped inside an alien pyramid with a cloaked hunter stalking them, there was only so much relaxation they could afford.
Slightly out of breath, the MCO and FCO recounted their unexpected ordeal, their words met with a mix of concern and curiosity from their crewmates.
"Let me get this straight," Dr. Noiva interjected, activating her medical tricorder. She arched an eyebrow as she assessed their injuries. "You fell into a pit?" Ava asked, her tone hovering between amusement and concern. "And yet somehow, these ‘smooth, endless walls’ you described managed to leave those markings on your posterior?"
Zub remained silent, refusing even to glance in the Caitian’s direction. He knew full well that any reaction might betray the truth he was desperately trying to suppress. Unfortunately for him, Ava’s expression suggested she already had her suspicions.
"It doesn't matter," Adriana cut in, visibly relieved by their safe return. "We just have to be more careful moving forward. Amanda is doing her best to help, but even though these corridors and rooms feel familiar to her, she doesn’t actually know the layout."
"Mental projection," Gemma offered, her voice carrying an eerie certainty, as if drawing from knowledge beyond her own. "The dark corridors, the softly glowing glyphs... these elements are intrinsic to the construct. A design meant to trap the minds of those inside."
"Trap?" Noiva repeated, challenging the assertion. "If Amanda's mind is trapped, as you suggest, then how has Adriana been able to see and hear her? Are you implying that these apparitions are nothing more than hallucinations?"
"Amanda is not a hallucination," Adriana snapped back, her conviction unwavering.
"Even if she were," Zub began cautiously before quickly turning to Adriana, "...and I'm not saying she is... how do you explain Cristhiane? She risked her life to save her daughter. That’s not something you just imagine."
"Tall, dark, and scaly makes a fair point," A'Janni chimed in, crossing his arms. "What are the odds of two people experiencing the same kind of hallucination—one that leads them both to a portal to another dimension?" The Caitian shook his head, his tail flicking with frustration. "We’re here, living this, and even I have a hard time believing it. None of it makes sense."
Commander Shar'El, who had remained silent up until now, nodded slowly, her expression turning increasingly pensive. "Somewhere, somehow, this does make sense. The problem is that we're missing key pieces of the puzzle. The Yautja—transdimensional hunters. This facility—designed to use Terrans to generate organic, adaptive training scenarios. Those pieces fit. And they explain, to some extent, why Amanda and Cristhiane are here."
"But," Gemma continued, her voice level and measured, "none of that explains how or why we were allowed through the portal’s defenses and reached this planet in the first place. The Tzenkethi also found the sphere, yet the Yautja used the Terrans on the ANUBIS to help mount a defense against them. So why were they denied access to the vortex, while we were allowed through?"
As if collectively realizing the same unsettling truth, the members of the away team scanned their surroundings, their gaze lingering on the nine stone doorways lining the chamber walls.
"Rats in a maze," Ava grumbled unhappily.
"No," Gemma countered, stepping closer to one of the doorways to examine the softly glowing glyphs. "This isn’t a maze. The design, the markings, all of it serves a specific purpose to the Yautja. We’re not supposed to be here. That’s why we’re being followed."
"Then why not just attack?" Zub questioned, his Marine instincts leaning toward the most direct course of action. "Or at the very least, contain an enemy force trespassing in their territory?"
"Maybe they lack the manpower to stop us, or the ability to restrict our movements within the facility," Adriana offered.
"I highly doubt they lack either the manpower or the technology to stop us," Shar'El countered, her sharp gaze flickering toward the only visible entrance and exit in the chamber. "We have no way of knowing how many of those cloaked hunters are currently tracking us, or even how close they are. As for being ‘contained’... I’d say they already have that covered quite well."
"So why the game?" A'Janni growled, his frustration bleeding into his voice and posture. "What are they getting out of this? If we’re not supposed to be here, why allow us to stay? Why let us wander freely? What do they want from us?"
A heavy silence fell over the group as the implications sank in.
Whatever the answer was, one thing was clear, this wasn’t just a matter of chance.
There was a reason they were here.
They just had to figure out why.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
"Whispers in the Shadows"
Previous post: "Conflicting Shadows"
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0115
Ava stood slightly apart from the others, her gaze flicking between Gemma and the softly glowing glyphs. The tension in the chamber had settled into an uneasy quiet, thick as the stale air around them. Shadows flickered against the ancient stone walls, their movements seemingly independent of the dim, alien glow emanating from the glyphs. The weight of unanswered questions pressed down on them all, a presence as oppressive as the towering walls that enclosed them. But for Ava, one question gnawed at her more persistently than the rest.
How did Gemma know all this?
Ava had touched the glyphs as well. She had traced the patterns, felt the smooth stone beneath her fingertips, had even taken the time to study their faint luminescence. And yet, she had gained nothing from the contact. No flashes of insight, no sudden revelations about the pyramid, the underground facility, or the Yautja. Nothing beyond what her own logic and experience could deduce. But Gemma…
Gemma had touched them, and she knew things.
The certainty in her voice when she spoke of the facility’s purpose, the way she analyzed their situation with eerie precision, it was as if she was recalling something she had always known rather than discovering it for the first time.
Ava frowned. Could it be some residual knowledge buried in Gemma’s fractured psyche, resurfacing now in the midst of their predicament? Or was it something else entirely? Could the nanites coursing through her blood have given her an unexpected link to this matrix, and if so why had the process not been duplicated with her own? The idea that their enigmatic companion might be receiving knowledge directly from the structure, from the Yautja themselves, sent a chill through her.
Why her? Why not Ava?
Her medical training urged her to consider biological and neurological factors. Perhaps Gemma’s unique mental state made her more receptive to whatever latent energy or information the glyphs carried. But even that was just speculation, and speculation wasn’t something Ava was comfortable relying on. She needed data, evidence, something tangible to confirm or disprove her suspicions.
What bothered her most was the possibility that Gemma wasn’t simply receiving knowledge but rather was being given knowledge. If the Yautja, or the facility itself, had chosen to impart information specifically to her, that meant there was intent behind it. A purpose. And if that was the case, what did that mean for the rest of them?
Was Gemma their key to survival? Or was she something else entirely, another part of the experiment they had unknowingly become trapped in? Was this link making the ANUBIS' ILO a possible threat to the away team... or to the ship... like Admiral Koniki feared she might one day become?
Ava’s fingers flexed against the side of her medical tricorder. Scanning Gemma again, knowing that her nanites would shield her from the scan, was pointless, but that was not the reason why the CMO held onto the small device with such intensity. Inside a hidden secret compartment was a small vial filled with the silver ooze the Admiral had given her, its purpose engineered by Koniki himself, its use unspoken but unmistakable. Whatever was happening, it wasn’t just physiological. It was something deeper, something intangible, something that drew Noiva that much closer to ending her surveillance of Operative #1... permanently.
Her gaze flickered back to the softly glowing glyphs, then to the woman standing before them. A nagging sense of unease crept into her mind, an instinct honed by intense Intel training warning her that something was off. She had seen anomalies before, bodies reacting in ways science could not yet explain, but this was different. This was deliberate. This was calculated. Ava had always believed that knowledge was the key to survival. But for the first time, she wasn’t sure if knowing more was actually keeping them safe… or drawing them further into the shadows of this place.
Silently, she resolved to watch Gemma more closely. Whatever was happening here, she had a feeling their survival depended on understanding why it was happening and if she needed to intervene to protect the rest of the team.
=-=
Dawn Bohr
Lieutenant Ava Noiva
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
"Something Hiding in the Shadows"
Previous post: "Whispers in the Shadows” by Dawn
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0120
The away team found themselves trapped inside the stone chamber, surrounded by nine glowing-marked doorways, each one a mystery. The only inadvertent attempt at exploration had resulted in a sudden and painful drop for Zub and A'Janni, proving that these so-called gateways were anything but safe.
Gemma’s revelation that this was a Yautja training facility changed the stakes. This wasn't just a tomb or some ancient ruin, they were inside an active proving ground, a place designed to push warriors to their limits. Worse, if the ILO was right, the facility itself was adapting to their presence, either directly or indirectly. In either case, the away team needed to be extra cautious, especially with the knowledge that a cloaked hunter was likely on their trail... if not already in the room with them.
As the others debated their next move, Adriana stood to the side, deep in thought. Or at least, that’s what it looked like to the rest of the team. In reality, she was engaged in a whispered conversation with Amanda.
"I'm sorry I can't be of more help, sis," Amanda sighed, arms crossed as she studied the markings above each archway. "I think Gemma hit it right on the head when she said this," she said, unfolding her arms to motion at everything around them, "that all of this is meant to keep the minds of those trapped inside confused and unable to escape."
"You did help," Adriana pointed out. "You’ve been with me since before I joined Starfleet." The Counselor paused for a few seconds as a gentle smile formed on her lips. "Granted, I thought I was going insane at the time, but you were still there, helping me through some of the hardest moments of my life."
"Moments that you wouldn’t have had to live through if it hadn’t been for my disappearance," Amanda replied with a bittersweet smile. "But you’re right, I did manage to get out of this maze. I just don’t know how, especially when I clearly don’t know the layout."
"You found a way, just like we will, after we find you and the others," Adriana whispered back.
Amanda nodded, but her expression darkened. "Gemma is right. The Yautja are hunters, and they enjoy going after the most challenging prey. This place? It’s designed to create that challenge. If they’re using live subjects, Terrans specifically, to fuel the system, it means…"
She trailed off.
Adriana frowned. "Means what?"
Amanda's expression shifted, her gaze snapping toward one of the stone archways. Her entire body tensed as if she had just heard something the others had not. Something terrifying.
"Wait… something’s happening…"
Before she could finish, her form flickered. Then, just like that, she was gone.
Adriana’s breath caught in her throat. Her heart pounded as she frantically turned in place, searching for her twin.
"Amanda? AMANDA!"
The others turned at the sound of her panic, but Adriana barely noticed. She reached out, trying to grasp at the emptiness where Amanda had stood just moments ago.
But she was gone.
"What’s happening?" Commander Shar'El asked as she and the rest of the away team converged on Adriana’s position.
"Amanda!" Adriana gasped, barely able to breathe. "She was right there… we were talking… she stopped, said something was happening, and then she just disappeared."
"You keep looking at that one particular archway," Gemma observed. "Why?"
"She… she was looking in that direction when she vanished," Adriana said, tears streaking down her cheeks.
"Might not mean anything," Zub pointed out. "By Amanda's own admission, as per Adriana, she doesn’t have a working knowledge of this facility’s layout."
"True," A'Janni agreed. "But it does give us a particular direction to follow, be it right or wrong."
Adriana silently pleaded with her crewmates, her concern for Amanda engraved on her features and growing with each aching heartbeat.
The ILO looked at the Counselor in a way only Gemma could, cold, detached, and yet with something else happening behind her eyes. After a few seconds of agonizing silence, Gemma took a deep breath and made her way to the doorway in question.
"What are you doing?" Ava gasped.
"Helping a friend," Gemma calmly stated as she pressed her hand firmly against the glowing glyphs.
Even the air in the room seemed to stand still, waiting to see what would happen. When the gateway opened, revealing another room, a shared sigh of relief filled the void between the members of the away team.
As the doorway opened, Gemma stumbled several steps backward, colliding with the Voth who had been standing there, waiting to see if he could help in some way. His three-clawed hands cautiously steadying the troubled woman. "Are you okay?" Zub asked Gemma, the ILO showing visible signs of distress.
"I… I will be," she replied, looking up at the towering lizard man before doing something that surprised him... she smiled.
"Let's go," Shar'El instructed, sending the away team into the next room.
Still fighting back the storm of emotions threatening to overtake her, Adriana followed the other, fear for her sister and pride in being part of such an amazing team mixing with so many other sentiments. In that moment, she dismissed what she believed she saw before the doorway closed behind her and the rest of the away team.
Eight small glowing red orbs floated in the thick, stale air of the pyramid.
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
"Shadows Within Shadows"
Previous post: "Something Hiding in the Shadows"
Location: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0130
The room pulsed with ancient energy, the softly glowing glyphs casting flickering shadows across the towering stone walls. Gemma's breath was ragged, her hand trembling as she leaned on Zub for support. The surge of information coursing through her mind was like a tidal wave, crashing against the fragmented shores of her consciousness. Her nanites struggled to process and compartmentalize the overwhelming data that had been imprinted upon her from the Yautja Training Matrix.
Her vision blurred with chaotic flashes. Memories beyond the confines of time and space.
Lokustaar shadows swarming through the sky, destroying worlds and leaving nothing but blazing ruins behind.
Yautja hunts spanning countless worlds, tracking the monstrous invaders through dense jungles, barren deserts, and frozen wastelands, all of this spanning multiple dimensions.
Terran captives, their minds entangled in the Matrix, held in stasis within all four pyramids, their psychic signatures flickering like dim stars.
Kael emerged from the storm, silent and steady. Her presence was cold yet reassuring. “Stealth is key,” she whispered in riddles. “Unseen paths are the ones worth walking. Shadows hold the answers.”
Gemma felt the sudden weight of Kael’s existence settle into her psyche, a calm, calculated presence imbued with the Yautja’s knowledge and methods. Although alien, there were many aspects of their lives the ILO understood and even respected.
But chaos has a way of breaking through even the most calculated plans.
Arika cackled inside of Gemma's mind, her energy wild and infectious. “Oh, this is gonna be fun,” she grinned. “Let’s make things messy!”
The ILO winced, feeling Arika's chaotic influence take root alongside Kael’s stoic discipline. The two new personalities clashed within her mind, Kael urging caution while Arika reveled in the thrill of unpredictability.
“Adaptation is survival,” Kael reminded.
“Improvisation is victory,” Arika countered with a sly smirk.
The older personalities stirred, their voices blending into a cacophony of opinions.
"This is madness," Neri sighed. "Fighting the Yautja in their own Matrix? That’s suicide."
"We need a plan,” Dalra, the Varro pilot, stated with authority. “A pilot never flies blind, and we’re heading into uncharted territory.”
Ema Fairchild, the Oltharian warrior priestess, warned, “Calm yourselves. Chaos breeds death. Focus on the path to life.”
"The possibilities are fascinating!” Wimdalli added excitedly. “I must document every detail of this matrix architecture and its internal workings. Imagine what we could discover and learn!”
Gabrielle Wolfe, the Germanic saboteur, stepped in, unimpressed. “Cut the chatter,” her thick accent echoing within the ILO’s mind. “We need to disable the Matrix itself if we want to win this. There are hundreds of lives at stake here.”
“Understanding the minds of our allies and enemies alike will be crucial in this rescue,” Gwenvel, the El-Aurian counselor, added, showing hesitation in accepting the unspoken plan being considered.
Tahlia's voice, new but commanding, rose above the fray. Her tone was calm but firm. “We need unity. Diplomacy will be our weapon inside the Matrix. There are always ways to negotiate, even in a battlefield of the mind.”
Gemma reeled from the internal tumult. The weight of Kael, Arika, and Tahlia’s sudden creation added to the mental burden, yet she knew she had to harness their strengths. The Yautja Training Matrix was a labyrinth of dynamic, adaptive simulations designed to forge perfect hunters. The Terrans trapped within were its unwilling architects, their minds fueling its endless scenarios.
“We can rescue them,” Gemma said aloud, her voice shaky but resolute. “But we have to free their consciousnesses from inside the Matrix first. Otherwise, they will all die.”
The team stared at her, stunned by the revelation.
“You mean we have to go into THAT?” Zub asked glaring at what appeared to be some sort of control panel, his arm steadying her as she wobbled on her feet.
Gemma nodded. “The room we’re in is a control chamber. It will allow us to transfer our consciousnesses into the Matrix. But once we’re inside... if we die there, we die here.”
“The body cannot live without the mind,” Shar’El said, her experience as a Ullian telepath having proven this time and time again.
Silence fell over the group, the gravity of the situation sinking in. Ava’s face paled, her lips trembling. “This is insane,” she whispered. “We’re not trained for this kind of mental warfare.”
“None of us are,” Gemma admitted, “but it’s the only way. The Lokustaar are already here. If we don’t act now, the Terrans will be lost, and the Yautja Matrix will fall to the shadows.”
Ava hesitated, glancing at the others. One by one, they nodded in grim determination. Even Ava, though reluctant, realized there was no alternative.
The room's energy shifted as Gemma made her way to the control panel and, with knowledge that was not her own, activated the link. The chamber sealed itself, ancient mechanisms whirring to life. Pulsing streams of energy converged around the group, illuminating their forms in shimmering light.
“Brace yourselves,” Gemma warned. “It’s going to be a bumpy ride.”
The last thing they saw before their consciousnesses were pulled into the Yautja Training Matrix was each other’s determined faces, and the ominous glow of the ancient glyphs as the world around them dissolved into chaos.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
=-=
"Danger Comes in Many Forms"
Previous post: "Shadows Within Shadows" by Rachel
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid, Training Matrix
Stardate: 44355.0145
The away team materialized into their new reality, blinking against the sudden brightness of a vast, open field. Tall green grass swayed gently in the wind, stretching to the horizon in every direction. It was eerily calm, the kind of peace that seemed manufactured, too perfect to be real. A'Janni rolled his shoulders and took a deep breath, his feline ears flicking lazily.
"This isn't so bad," he remarked, scanning the area.
The moment the words left his mouth, the grass rustled. Instantly, every member of the away team snapped to alert. Hands hovered near weapons they weren’t sure they possessed in this simulation. Then, from the grass, a small, furry creature emerged, hopping cautiously into view.
It was vaguely rabbit-like, though its ears were longer and tapered to sharp points. Its fur was an iridescent shade of pink, shifting as it moved. Black, beady eyes regarded the team with curiosity. Then another appeared. And another. Within seconds, a dozen of the creatures had surrounded the away team.
"Well, this is... unexpected," Zub Enel muttered, watching the growing horde.
Then, as if responding to an unspoken command, the creatures lunged.
Zub reacted instantly, catching one mid-air and twisting sharply, sending it crashing into the ground. Another launched at his face, but his arm shot up, blocking its bite before he slammed it down with a bone-crushing impact. A'Janni dodged and weaved with feline agility, his claws raking across an attacker’s body. Another latched onto his back, but he twisted, grabbing it and flinging it into the grass.
Gemma was a whirlwind. The moment the attack began, she became a blur of motion, her hands moving faster than the eye could track. A bunny lunged at her throat. She effortlessly caught it mid-flight, snapping its neck in a single fluid motion. Another came from behind, she spun, her heel connecting with its skull, sending it hurtling into two more. Her expression was unreadable, her movements precise and lethal.
Shar’El, Adriana, and Ava remained at the center of the defensive formation, watching as the three combatants tore through the creatures. Adriana pressed a hand to her mouth, wide-eyed. "They just keep coming."
But just as suddenly as it had begun, the attack ended. The remaining creatures bolted back into the grass, vanishing from sight. Silence fell over the field once more.
Gemma straightened, scanning the area. Her expression remained impassive as she knelt and ran her hand over the ground where one of the creatures had fallen. There was nothing. No blood. No bodies. No trace of the battle that had just taken place.
"This is a simulation," she stated coldly, rising to her feet. "Nothing here is real. But the people keeping this running are. We need to find them."
Adriana squinted toward the horizon, her breath catching. "There," she said, pointing. In the distance, a structure stood against the landscape, stark and unyielding against the false serenity of the field.
The away team exchanged glances before setting off toward the unknown.
"Pink killer bunnies!" Doctor Noiva sighed in disbelief. "Really? This is the best they could come up with to stop us?"
Gemma was ready to rip the woman apart, but Zub intercepted her, leaving A'Janni and Shar'El to step in and handle the situation.
"This is a training program," the Caitian pointed out, his ears glued to the side of his head. "This was not an attack, it was a simple test of our capabilities."
"A'Janni is correct," the Commander added. "We are new to this program, to this fabricated environment. If the Terrans are unconsciously running this, they are gauging what our abilities, combat styles, and resources are. Each encounter from this point on is going to be more demanding... more dangerous."
Ava just shook her head, neither impressed by the test they had just been subjected to nor the explanation given to her.
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant JG A'Janni
Flight Control Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
##########
"Shadow Revenge"
Previous post: "Danger Comes in Many Forms" by Jayson
##########
"The oldest and strongest kind of fear is fear of the unknown."
- H.P. Lovecraft
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.0155
Captain Erik Morningstar sat in the central chair, his gaze fixed on the vast expanse of space displayed on the main viewscreen. The silence of the void felt oppressive. Losing contact with the away team had been bad enough, tearing at his very soul, but knowing something was out there, watching, waiting, made an already tense situation unbearable. The sudden collapse of the ANUBIS’ Chief of Security only added to the ship-wide unease.
“Still nothing on sensors,” Stark reported from the Operations station. He had returned to the bridge after leaving Ya’Han in Sickbay, knowing she was in the capable hands of Doctor Andersson. Right now, his duty was clear... protect the ANUBIS and everyone aboard including his beloved.
“We are scanning the surface of the planet and the entire sector,” Ani added. “Running full-spectrum sweeps. If something is out there, it knows exactly how to evade our scans, sitting just beyond our sensor resolution.” She paused for a fraction of a second, her artificial mind processing new data. “Doctor Andersson will likely want to speak with you. The comparative neurological analysis has revealed something… strange.”
Morningstar’s expression hardened. “Keep scanning. If anything changes, report immediately.” He rose from his chair, heading toward the turbolift.
“Captain?” Stark called after him, surprised. With Commander Shar’El still on the surface, leaving the bridge seemed uncharacteristic.
“You have the con, Lieutenant,” Morningstar said flatly, stepping inside without another word.
--==/\==--
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.0205
Captain Morningstar entered just as Doctor Andersson’s hand hovered over her communicator, about to call him. She blinked in mild surprise.
“How...?” Sofia exhaled, shaking her head. “Never mind. I need to have a chat with Sonja about Ani knowing everything that happens aboard this ship.”
“What did you find?” Erik asked, his tone sharp. This wasn’t the time for small talk.
Sofia’s expression grew serious. “I’m still analyzing the details, but as I am sure Ani already reported, there’s something… unnatural here.” She activated a holographic display, revealing a three-dimensional cross-section of two distinct neurological pathways. “These patterns are unique to individuals, shaped by their lives, experiences, and environments. Even identical twins have more differences in their neurological pathways than fingerprints.”
Morningstar leaned in, studying the image. After a moment, he pointed. “These two regions... they’re similar.”
“Not similar,” Sofia corrected. “Identical. Two completely different people, born on different worlds, leading different lives. That should be impossible, and yet... here it is.”
Before Erik could respond, a soft voice interrupted.
“Captain Morningstar?”
He turned to see a civilian woman standing nearby.
“You must be Ms. Cristhiane,” he greeted her with a polite nod. “I regret that I wasn’t able to meet you earlier.”
“I understand,” she said quickly. “And I appreciate everything you and your crew have done for me and my daughter.”
“Our pleasure,” he assured her, though his posture remained professional. “This may not be the best time, but can you tell me how you came to be in the ALPHA-KRAILIAN-SECTOR?”
Cristhiane hesitated, her eyes darting between the Doctor and the Captain.
“It’s all right,” Sofia reassured her. “We’re only trying to understand the situation. No judgment. Trust me, we’ve encountered things that would sound utterly insane to anyone else.”
Encouraged, Cristhiane let out a shaky breath before sitting on the edge of a nearby medical bed.
She spoke of a recurring dream... one that felt more real than any nightmare should. It began aboard a small ship, drifting toward a celestial anomaly, an inexplicable force pulling her in. Then, without warning, she would find herself inside a massive stone chamber, its walls covered in softly glowing alien symbols. At the center of the room stood a single control panel, its screen a swirling luminescent fluid, constantly shifting.
As she approached, the liquid pulsed, forming the face of her sleeping daughter. But there was something wrong, Christie’s face was twisted in fear. The room darkened. Then, from the shadows, eight glowing red eyes emerged. They didn’t just look at her. They saw through her.
And then, she would wake up.
“Eight red eyes,” Morningstar echoed, exchanging a glance with Doctor Andersson.
Sofia nodded grimly. “I didn’t think much of it at first, but after Ya’Han mentioned seeing the same thing, I ran the neurological comparisons. If Adriana were here, I suspect she’d show the same anomaly.”
Morningstar’s stance stiffened. “Are we compromised?”
“There’s no evidence of direct telepathic control,” Sofia said quickly. “At least, nothing conscious. But given the location of the anomaly, whatever’s causing it operates at a subconscious level.”
“Like a deeply rooted fear,” Erik murmured. His eyes flicked to Ya’Han, who had been silent until now. She was sitting up, listening intently, her red hair signalling her battle-readiness.
“How could our neurological pathways be altered without our knowledge?” she asked, her voice edged with frustration.
Morningstar’s response was grim. “You spent considerable time around Mordana and Jayson’s clone, more than enough for either of them to manipulate you. The Lokustaar possess the biological ability to become invisible. They could have altered Cristhiane, Adriana, or anyone, without them ever knowing. And we know how patient they are. Their plans unfold over decades.”
A heavy silence fell over the room.
“But why?” Erik finally asked, his frustration mounting. “What’s their endgame?”
“We may never know,” Sofia admitted reluctantly.
Morningstar’s expression darkened. He turned to face her fully, his voice cold, commanding. “Not acceptable. We’ve lost contact with our away team. Something is out there, lurking just beyond our sensors. I need answers, and I need them now.”
“I can keep digging,” Sofia offered hesitantly, “but...”
“Do it,” Erik cut in. “Use every resource the ANUBIS has. Get Maya down here, tap into the IGC's AI and its techs, use Ani... whatever it takes.”
He turned to leave but paused, looking at Ya’Han.
“Doctor, is she cleared for duty?”
Sofia hesitated, caught off guard by the sudden question. “Uh… yes.”
“Good.” Morningstar’s gaze locked onto Ya’Han. “Lieutenant, report to the bridge. I need my Chief of Security where she belongs.”
Ya’Han sprang from the bed without hesitation. “Aye, sir.”
--==/\==--
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44354.0215
“Ya’Han!” Jayson exclaimed as she stepped onto the bridge, her fiery red hair still in full display. His relief was evident.
“I’m fine,” she reassured him with a small, knowing smile.
The moment was short-lived.
“I want the ANUBIS ready to act the instant Doctor Andersson finds something useful,” Morningstar said as he resumed his seat.
Jayson hesitated. “That… might explain the massive spike in computer resource usage.” He swallowed. “Captain, I thought we were being sabotaged.”
“We might be,” Erik admitted. “But not in the way you think.”
Before anyone could respond, Ya’Han’s eyes widened in alarm. “Captain... Tactical station just went dark.”
“Operations too,” Jayson added.
Morningstar’s jaw clenched. “Morningstar to Paquette—”
=/\= Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, =/\= an annoyed and thick Scottish accent came over the comm channel. =/\= Aye, I know. You cannot have all of the computers and AI systems on the ANUBIS go into massive urgent overdrive and not have a drastic power drain across all other systems. Give me a minute, my diagnostics board is lit up like a Christmas tree, and I suspect that Ani is comatose at the moment... as per your orders I might add 'el grand puba!' =/\=
"Sensors, weapons, and defensive systems are off-line," Ya'Han reported just as the light flickered and everything went dark. "Sonja???"
=/\= Relax rainbow girl, =/\= Sonja calmly continued, her smile audible. =/\= I'm working on it. You'll get your lasers and things that go boom soon enough. =/\=
Seconds passed as Erik, Ya'Han, and Jayson waited for the ANUBIS to return to life, their eyes drifting to the immobile form of the avatar, standing motionless in the dark, waiting for some sort of confirmation that the situation would not last. The sight of the slouching head of the blue-haired artificial woman was something that none of them had seen before and proved to be very unsettling to everyone.
Time seemed to come to an eternal standstill as the bridge officers wondered what would happen. The ANUBIS was completely blind and defenceless, a situation that none of them found the least bit appealing.
"Rebooting," Ani announced, her head springing back to a more normal stance. "Sorry about that, Captain. It would seem that Maya may have taken your suggestion to Doctor Andersson to use all available resources a little too literally. The ANUBIS's tactical systems should be back online shortly."
A general sigh of relief filled the bridge as the Tactical and Operations stations returned to life, much to the delight of their respective officers in charge.
"Not sure what Doctor Andersson and Maya did, but it looks like it worked," Jayson announced. "Sensors are piercing through the interference. I am now picking up the away team, roughly 50 meters below ground somewhere in the middle of the four pyramids."
"We have a bigger problem," Ya'Han stated. "Sensors are also picking up three Lokustaar capital ships."
"Three?" Erik repeated, allowing for a brief moment for his normally stoic facade to drop.
"And those are just the ones in orbit," the Sec/Tac added. "I am picking up three other, smaller ones on the planet's surface. They might be some sort of drop ship as sensors are detecting a massive shifting distortion in their vicinity. Based on these readings, I am guessing that the Lokustaar are fighting something on the surface, and the battle is massive."
"Lieutenant Stark, if you have a lock on our away team, beam them back now," Morningstar ordered.
"I could, but there is something weird about these readings," Jayson explained. "The away team is isolated in a room, and their life signs appear to be steady, calm, almost as if they were asleep. They are also not responding to hails. I am also picking up hundreds of fluctuating brainwave patterns. I cannot be certain, but I would say that the away team is somehow integrated into whatever is down there."
"The decoy Terran life signs were not a decoy after all," Ya'Han confirmed from the Tactical station. "We are picking up hundreds of people scattered inside the four pyramids. Maybe the away team is trying to rescue them from whatever is keeping them under control."
"Great," Erik sighed. "Fine, keep an eye on those Lokustaar capital vessels and be ready to bring the away team and everyone else we can aboard the moment an opportunity presents itself."
--==(/\)==--
Francois Charette
Captain Erik Morningstar
Commanding Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
--
"I used to think it was awful that life was so unfair. Then I thought, wouldn't it be much worse if life were fair and all the terrible things that happen to us come because we actually deserve them. So now I take great comfort in the general hostility and unfairness of the universe."
- Marcus Cole, Babylon 5
=-=
"Neural Analysis"
Previous post: "Shadow Revenge" by the ever-watchful Francois
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44355.0210
(Captain Morningstar and Lieutenant Ya'Han have just left Sickbay)
Dr. Sofia Andersson stood in front of the 3-dimensional diagnostic display, her brow furrowed in concentration as she studied the neural scans of both Lieutenant Ya'Han and Cristhiane. The results before her defied all natural biological logic. Despite their vastly different genetic makeups, the neurological pathways in one key area of their brains were perfectly identical. Not similar... identical.
"That’s impossible," Sofia muttered in disbelief, her fingers flying over the console as she rechecked the data for the fourth time, this even after telling the Captain about the discovery.
From the other side of Sickbay, Cristhiane leaned forward. "Impossible doesn’t seem to mean what it used to, at least not aboard this ship. What exactly are we looking at here?"
"Something…" Sofia paused, unsure of how to phrase it. "Something that shouldn’t be. There is no natural phenomenon in the known universe that could explain this level of duplication across two entirely different individuals. Captain Morningstar is right, I need to run a deep comparative analysis using all of the ANUBIS’ computational resources."
Cristhiane became silent as she studied the dark, almost invisible set of neurons on the screen, thinking about how that was in her head, inside her brain, and was likely the cause of her dreams about her missing daughter. The civilian woman desperately wanted to help, but she knew that the people aboard this ship knew what they were doing.
Sofia tapped into the ship’s mainframe, linking all available data processing nodes to the Medical Lab’s core systems, including that of the Intel Gathering Center, the ship's highly classified intelligence analysis hub, and the science department. She was pushing the ANUBIS’ resources to the absolute limit. Moments later, the lab's lights flickered, and a brief warning flashed across her screen.
Hearing the echoes of Erik's instructions to her, Sofia ignored the warning and pressed on. The answers the Captain required were urgently needed, so she could not delay or consider the possible setbacks to other departments.
A second warning flashed across her screen before the lights flickered once again.
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Stellar Cartography
Stardate: 44355.0217
Lieutenant Commander Maya frowned as the massive holographic display of Stellar Cartography went dark. The entire room was suddenly plunged into total darkness. The last thing the Shillian had seen was a warning from the science computer main frame that resources and power were being diverted to Sickbay.
Maya just leaned back into her chair. "I wonder what Doctor Andersson is up to?"
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44355.0218
Despite the ship-wide power fluctuations, the analysis was finally completed. Sofia inhaled sharply as the results appeared. She enhanced the findings and quickly cross-referenced them with Starfleet’s classified archives. A chill ran down her spine.
"This neural pattern... it’s alien. Not just any alien, though. It matches recorded data on the Lokustaar."
Cristhiane stiffened. "The Shadow race? But how?"
Sofia shook her head, her mind racing. "That’s what we need to figure out. Somehow, they managed to alter neural structures on a level that is… perfect. This isn’t something a genetic alteration could accomplish. It’s as if… as if this was introduced at a later stage."
Cristhiane's eyes narrowed. "Like a virus?"
Sofia nodded slowly. "Yes, but one unlike anything we’ve ever encountered. A virus wouldn’t normally be capable of making such precisely identical modifications in two separate people."
Cristhiane crossed her arms, thinking aloud. "A pretty single-minded bug, then."
Sofia smirked. "Pretty single-minded indeed. But that idea actually holds merit. If it is a virus, then it had to operate within a specific framework, and that means…"
She trailed off, her gaze locking onto a peculiar anomaly buried within the neural patterns. There was an underlying frequency present... so precise... so stable that it was practically undetectable. She isolated the frequency and examined its properties.
"This is not the first time the Lokustaar have used a genetically engineered virus," Andersson stated. "I remember reading Satella's report on GALEMAE, that the world was facing a planet-wide pandemic that threatened to kill everyone. The ANUBIS was dispatched to help and hopefully find a solution. When the virus was identified as being of Lokustaar origin, they were able to create a counter agent. This virus is not meant to kill, but I suspect that some of the base creation methods were still used." Her eyes widened. "This… this frequency. It isn’t bound by normal spatial constraints. It appears to transcend time and space itself."
Cristhiane’s expression darkened. "Then it’s more than a virus. It’s a mechanism, a method of control or influence that stretches beyond what we understand."
Sofia rapidly configured the scanner to tune into the exact frequency. The results were instantaneous. The affected areas of the brain lit up with greater clarity than ever before, revealing layers of cellular alterations that had previously gone unnoticed.
"This is it!" Sofia exclaimed. "If we scale this up and apply the same frequency adjustment to the ANUBIS' sensors, we might be able to detect traces of this wherever the Lokustaar have been at work."
Cristhiane nodded. "We need to get this information to the bridge. If this works, it could change how we track their influence."
"Already done," Doctor Andersson announced. "I've downloaded the specifics about this frequency into the tactical systems. The reboot should not take too long. I just hope that it ends up helping."
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
"Trials of the Matrix"
Previous post: "Neural Analysis"
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid, Inside the Training Matrix
Stardate: 44355.0215
The battlefield still pulsed with the echoes of combat... the clashing of steel, the sharp breath of exertion... and the adrenaline-laced cries of warriors testing their mettle. Now, as the dust settled and the figures of samurai, ninjas, and knights faded from existence, the away team stood in the aftermath of their unexpected trial.
Commander Shar’El surveyed the team with a practiced eye, ensuring that all members were accounted for. The battle had left them bruised but standing. Zub Enel rolled his massive shoulders, still feeling the impact of a knight’s shield bash, while A’Janni stretched, testing the mobility of his arm after a well-placed katana strike had nearly slowed him down. Counselor Adriana Lopez exhaled, a mixture of relief and renewed determination fueling her as she locked eyes with Shar’El. The mission was far from over.
Ava Noiva remained silent, her attention locked on Gemma. The CMO’s fingers hovered just above the medkit at her hip, more out of habit than necessity, though her tension had little to do with injuries. To her, Gemma was an unpredictable element, a flawed construct walking among them under the guise of an intelligence operative. The fact that they were trapped inside a system that had already responded to Gemma’s presence more than once only deepened her mistrust.
Gemma, for her part, seemed unfazed. She met Ava’s gaze with an unreadable expression as if daring the doctor to voice her concerns aloud. The unspoken battle between them was momentarily interrupted as the Commander addressed the group.
“We’re moving,” the ExO said. “We spotted a structure at the far edge of this field before the fight. It might hold answers or, if we’re lucky, the Terrans themselves.”
The team pressed forward, moving cautiously through the tall green grass that swayed as though whispering secrets. The air was thick with an artificial stillness, the kind that suggested the Yautja's Training Matrix was already preparing its next test. Every step forward carried an undercurrent of unease.
Adriana’s thoughts remained fixed on her sister, Amanda. If this simulation was drawing from the minds of those trapped within, then the horrors they had faced were not random; they were a reflection of those suffering inside. She cast a glance at A’Janni, who offered her a nod of quiet reassurance. The twin katana in his hands seemed to suit the Caitian perfectly. He understood what was at stake, as did they all.
Zub Enel led the way, keeping his senses attuned to any potential threats, his ironclad grip firm on the massive broadsword now in his possession. The team had already learned that nothing here was as simple as it seemed. Ava walked close behind, a shield in her hands, while stealing glances at Gemma every so often. If something went wrong, she was certain that the unarmed ILO would be at the center of it.
As they neared the building, details became clearer; stone walls covered in vines, an arched entrance leading into darkness. It looked ancient, but inside the Matrix, appearances were deceptive. Shar’El, armed with a short sword, motioned for the team to halt before nodding toward the entrance.
“Stay sharp,” she said. “This place has tested us twice. There’s no telling what’s waiting for us in there.”
The away team exchanged a final glance before stepping inside, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
=-=
Dawn Bohr
Lieutenant Ava Noiva
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
=-=
“Trial by Shadow”
Previous post: "Trials of the Matrix" by Dawn
=-=
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid, Inside the Training Matrix
Stardate: 44355.0220
Zub walked in first, securing the entrance lobby, his broadsword in hand and ready to strike. Gemma quietly followed in and walked right past Zub almost as if the giant Voth had not been there.
"You know," he chuckles, "it is easier for me to protect someone if they are behind me."
"I don't need protection," Gemma fired back, her tone and general demeanor as cold as the ice world P8746.
There was something different about Gemma since the away team had stepped inside the pyramid, something that Zub could not put into words but yet seemed to somehow understand. He could feel the conflicting thoughts and personalities within her, a storm hidden beneath the woman's unreadable facade, a shield of sorts that somehow he was able to see through from time to time, for a few fleeting seconds. Taking that knowledge into consideration, the MCO thought carefully about what he wanted to say, quickly thinking it best to remain silent. After all, the ILO had managed their last trial barehanded, and that with the ferocity of an entire battalion of angry Klingon warriors
Zub's mind drifted for a brief moment as the woman walked ahead. He watched every move she made, studying the intensity of her every gesture, the quiet strength and determination. He wasn't entirely certain that he had missed this before, believing that maybe something about this place had changed her... somehow.
"Alright," Commander Shar'El said, snapping Zub back into the task at hand. "Look around for any clues as to what we need to do next, or what we might expect will be our next obstacle."
Complying with the order, his eyes took in the walls made of stone blocks blackened by the soot of a million fires. Banners hung from flying buttresses bearing up the vaulted ceiling. He didn’t recognize the symbols. It was no heraldry he had ever witnessed. He said, “These banners imply knights in armor. If we encounter any, I am happy to take one off your hands.” He raised the tip of his broadsword.
"Memories of fairy tales," Gemma muttered barely loud enough for the others to hear. "None of this is real. The training matrix uses the Terrans to create every part of this simulation, including the terrain and environment. There is nothing alien about any of what we have seen or encountered."
"So far," Ava snarled, the CMO not in the least bit impressed by any of what they were dealing with, let alone Gemma's apparent knowledge of the Matrix's inner workings.
Enel gave the CMO a sidelong glance. There was hostility there toward Gemma. He wasn’t sure of the source. Most people respected Gemma. The smart ones feared her potential for harm if one of her more deadly personas presented itself. This Dr. Noiva seemed genuinely annoyed with the ILO. There was something about her attitude that he could barely put a finger on. It felt to him like Noiva conducted herself around Gemma as if on equal footing somehow. What did someone who thought they had equality with Gemma imply? The question reverberated with Zub.
Noiva had noticed his long look. Her cool gaze settled on Zub’s face. She asked in a voice icier than a P8746 polar breeze, “Yes?”
Zub lied, not ready to broach the enmity between her and Gemma. Instead, unsure this ‘training’ took into account Starfleet instrumentation, he asked, “Does your tricorder pick up any potential combatants near us?”
"Tricorders won't work in this place," Gemma pointed out. "The tricorder is only a mental projection of her consciousness. The Matrix allowed it to be here because it does not have any direct implication on a fight. That is the reason why our phasers are not here... we are not here. Imagine us being in a holodeck but as computer-generated images of ourselves. We interact with the environment because we are part of it. Anything that was physically with us is still out there, in the control room, with our bodies."
Zub Enel glanced at Gemma and then Ava Noiva. They and the rest of the team here in this room were constructs; copies - once removed; like the memory of a memory. He hefted his broadsword. It felt real and highly lethal. He was willing to bet tribbles to donuts that as a construct, he could still die.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
AND
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
“When sorrows come, they come not single spies, but in battalions.”
– Claudius, Hamlet, Bill Shakespeare
"Real Memories"
Previous post: "Trial by Shadows” by Rachel and David
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid, inside the matrix
Stardate: 44355.0230
The away team cautiously advanced through the torch-lit grand foyer of the massive stone fortress, their footsteps echoing against the ancient walls.
"Is it me or is this thing bigger on the inside?" A'Janni noted, a hint of surprise and puzzlement in his voice.
Everything around them, the chilling draft, the weight of their weapons, even the flickering glow of firelight, felt real. But it wasn’t. None of it was.
"Remember," Gemma reminded them, her sharp gaze sweeping over the team, "nothing you see or touch here is real. This is all an illusion. Your bodies are still in the control room, but the pain you feel will be real... and it can kill you."
Shar’El exhaled slowly, scanning the impossibly detailed simulation. "This is an astonishingly complex fabrication. Maya would have loved to study this... the details are sharper than anything our holodecks technology could create."
"Makes sense," Ava said dryly. "There are hundreds of human minds at work constructing, editing, and adapting this simulation, even anticipating what we might do or say."
The Commander slowly nodded. "Which means we’re not looking for people," she reasoned. "We’re searching for minds. Any idea how we locate them?"
Before anyone could answer, a blur of motion burst into the room.
A woman, wild with emotion, dark eyes shining, her face unmistakable. She didn’t hesitate. She ran straight for Adriana and crashed into her, arms locking around her in an unrestrained, desperate embrace.
"ADRIANA!!!"
The team tensed, hands twitching as they readied for a fight, but the resemblance was undeniable. There was no mistaking who this was. For the first time, the ANUBIS crew laid eyes on Amanda, not as a hallucination or a whisper in the dark that only Adriana could see, but as a physical presence standing before them.
Counselor Lopez stood frozen, her mind unable to process what was happening. Shock, disbelief, overwhelming joy, and gut-wrenching doubt all collided at once. For decades, she had chased shadows, held on to fleeting glimpses of a sister she could never reach. But now, Amanda was here... and she was touching her. The warmth of her skin, the strength of her arms wrapped around her, the pressure of her body pressed close... it was real.
It had never been real before.
A strangled sob tore from Adriana’s throat as her arms instinctively tightened around her sister. "Amanda..."
"I can’t believe this!" Amanda breathed, her voice thick with emotion. She pulled back just enough to cup Adriana's face, her fingers trembling. "I can finally touch you. I can finally hold you."
Tears welled in Adriana's eyes as she let herself believe, just for a second, that this was real, that the nightmare was finally over. That she had found her sister at last.
"This isn’t real." Gemma’s voice cut through the moment like a blade.
Adriana’s entire body tensed. A fresh wave of fear and anger surged through her. She wanted to fight it, to reject the reminder. But something gnawed at the back of her mind, a cruel, undeniable truth she could no longer ignore.
She couldn’t feel Amanda’s heartbeat. It should have been frantically racing, just like her own.
Even as they clung to each other, as Amanda’s hands trembled against her skin, there was no thrum of life beneath it.
Adriana squeezed her eyes shut, inhaling a shaky breath. No. She wouldn’t let this slip through her fingers. Not now. "Does this feel like an illusion to you?" she snapped at Gemma, her voice raw with emotion.
Amanda shook her head, gripping her sister’s hands. "I know this isn’t the real world, but I’m here, Adriana. I’ve always been here. And now that you’re inside, I can finally, truly, help you."
Shar’El took a slow step forward. "Help us how?"
Amanda exhaled, steadying herself. "The others... the Terrans you’re searching for... they’re here, all around us, like ghosts. Their minds are trapped inside the Matrix, feeding data into it, but they don’t have bodies inside the simulation like I do. They don’t know what’s real and what’s not. To them this is just an endless dream, a nightmare in which they are constantly looking for ways to survive. We need to make them see the truth. That’s the only way to free them."
Adriana swallowed hard, her grip on her sister tightening. After all these years, after all the unanswered questions, after all the hallucinations and heartache, she finally had her sister back.
But would she have to let her go all over again?
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
"Storm on the Horizon"
Previous post: "Real Memories"
Location: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid, Inside the matrix
Stardate: 44355.0240
The away team had ventured deep into the heart of the Yautja Training Matrix, their surroundings now resembling a grand, ancient castle with towering stone walls and flickering torchlight casting shadows across the vast hall. The air was thick with a surreal energy, and despite the cold detachment Gemma forced herself to maintain, the atmosphere felt almost tangible, as though the construct itself was alive and watching.
Suddenly, a blur of movement caught everyone's attention. Amanda Lopez burst into the room, her face alight with joy and relief. Without hesitation, she tackled her twin sister, Adriana Lopez, the Counselor of the ANUBIS, in a fierce embrace. The raw emotion of the reunion was palpable, drawing smiles from the rest of the away team.
The warmth of the moment washed over the room... except for Gemma.
Her nanite-augmented senses were overwhelmed by a torrent of new data. The unexpected link to the Matrix had transformed her perception, making her subconsciously aware of the hundreds of Terrans trapped within the construct. Their mental patterns pulsed like faint echoes in her mind, each one a prisoner of this fabricated reality. Amid this cacophony, three new voices had emerged within her psyche:
"This place is a maze of illusions," Kael's voice was low and cryptic. "To break free, you must unravel its hidden threads. But beware, clarity often leads to peril."
Arika jumped in immediately after. "Forget unraveling!" Her voice was brash and impulsive. "Let's just blow the whole thing up! Bet we can whip up a glitch that'll make this entire simulation crash!" There was a mischievous laugh in her tone.
Tahlia, the Diplomat, stepped in, pushing the impulsive wild card aside. "Reckless approaches will only strengthen the prison's grip," she countered calmly. "We need to understand the Matrix's logic and negotiate its release. Its creators built it with purpose, perhaps we can turn that purpose against them."
These new personas, as well as many of the older ones, argued amongst themselves, each offering a unique perspective on the situation. Yet despite their differing viewpoints, none could sway Gemma from her grim focus.
“This is not real,” she reminded herself, her voice cold and resolute. “None of this is real.” But the link to the Training Matrix was making that truth harder to cling to with each passing moment.
Zub, standing nearby, sensed Gemma’s growing turmoil. Thanks to the presence of a small number of her nanites in his bloodstream, he had a weak but undeniable connection to her mental conflicts. The sensation was strange and disconcerting, an anxiety that wasn’t entirely his own. Despite Gemma’s repeated claims that she didn’t need protection or assistance, Zub’s concern for her only deepened.
“Gemma,” he said softly, stepping closer, “are you alright? You seem... tense.”
Gemma’s eyes snapped to him, her expression icy. “I don’t need your help,” she said curtly.
Zub opened his mouth to protest but was interrupted by Gemma turning abruptly toward Amanda. Her voice was sharp and demanding. “How are you able to have a physical form in this simulation while the other Terrans are just invisible shadows?”
Amanda blinked, taken aback by the sudden question. “I... I don’t know,” she admitted. “All I know is that there are only a handful of us who can do this. The rest are stuck in a dream state of perpetual survival.” Her expression softened as she continued. “There is this boy, Nathan. He's a cute kid, well, he's not a kid anymore, but still just as innocent as he was on that first day. We kind of grew up together in this place. There's Simone, she was here before me or any of the others. She's kind of like a surrogate mother to us. Calm and wise although there are times I think she is losing her wits. She might have been here too long. There's George, he's kind of nuts, always trying to pick a fight with whatever the others create knowing that he can't get hurt, well, not really. Almost forgot, there’s this girl named Christie. We became friends because we were both missing someone dear to us. I missed my sister. Christie missed her mother, Cristhiane. She’s one of the few who can take physical form too.”
Gemma’s cold demeanor faltered as conflicting realizations clashed within her mind. For a brief, disorienting second, the raw humanity of Amanda's story threatened to thaw the iron grip she maintained over her emotions. But then, like a spark igniting a storm, her analytical mind seized on Amanda's mention of those who could manifest physically within the Matrix. The flicker of vulnerability was swiftly replaced by an intense calculation, eyes narrowing, her focus sharpened into something lethal and precise. Kael’s voice whispered cryptic riddles in the back of her consciousness, Arika clamored for brute unpredictable force, and Tahlia pleaded for reason. Yet through the noise, Gemma found clarity: a daring strategy beginning to take form.
Taking a breath, Gemma spoke with authority. “Bring them here. All of them. Anyone who can manifest physically.” Her gaze was steely. “They are the key to breaking the Matrix’s hold on the other Terrans and shutting down this Yautja training facility.”
The weight of her words settled over the room. Amanda nodded solemnly, understanding the gravity of the task.
As the team prepared to act, Gemma fought to maintain her grip on reality. The Matrix was a construct, an illusion, but its hold was insidious, chipping away at her resolve with every passing moment. She knew that the fight to free the Terrans was not just a battle against the Yautja but also a battle to preserve her own sanity.
-=-=-
NM
We are almost there. We might actually get a happy ending... for once (evil laughter).
David, we have to start planning how Gemma and Zub are going to talk about all of this. Nothing happened, yet too much happened for them to just let things go.
Cristhiane, likewise, you need to start thinking about this mother and child reunion. I am sure that any of us would be able to write it, but I suspect that you have an emotional investment in this particular aspect of the story now. If you need any help, you know we are all here for you, so just reach out.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
=-=
“Threadbare”
Previous post: “Storm on the Horizon” by Rachel
=-=
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid, Inside the matrix
Stardate: 44355.0242
"Yes," Wimdalli said smiling, "using those able to manifest within the Matrix physically is the perfect way to reach the others." The Uxali scientist sounded genuinely excited.
"It's a complete waste of time," Anya fired back. The Russian assassin evidently did not share the sentiment. "A handful of rejects will not be able to affect this system. If they could have, do you not think they would already have done so?"
"It's not that easy and you know it," Finnja sighed, sorrow lacing her words. "These people were trapped in this against their wills, and if we take Adriana's twin sister as a case scenario, some of them have been here for as long as they can remember. This has been all that they know."
"And the system has been suppressing their ability to even think of anything else, let alone," Gabriella said, her Germanic accent echoing loudly in Gemma's mind. "We have the means to change that."
"That's a wild guess," Jinx pointed out. "Yes, we have access to the system's code, but only superficially. Being able to truly understand this alien language is still beyond our reach, yet you want us to reprogram this system?"
"Reprogram?" Lireen objected. "Imagine what we could learn if we took the time to understand this code, this culture. They are more advanced than we are in several technological aspects. We have to take the time to study this."
"Time is a luxury we do not have," Viras said, the tone of her voice silencing all of the others. "We have access to the source code. We will have access to the means to break part of that code and hopefully cause a cascade failure that will free all of the Terrans. More importantly, we have to do this now before Gemma loses herself in this merge, or whatever it is that is happening. Kael, Arika and Tahlia are proof that this Matrix is affecting her more than we are affecting it, and that needs to change before it is too late, for all our sakes."
=-=
Standing nearby, Zub could feel a storm of emotions raging behind Gemma’s impassive face. He wasn’t sure how he knew, but he knew she was struggling to maintain an even keel. His instinct was to help her right herself, yet he had no idea how. A Gemma going out of kilter could be dangerous for everybody in the room. Any of Amanda’s friends would likely be too frightened by a berserk Gemma to help the crew and themselves escape the Yautja prison.
Gemma’s eyes fluttered. Her knees softened and she started to pitch to her side away from him.
The broadsword rang on the stone floor as Zub abandoned it. He grabbed Gemma by her upper arm, and used it to hold her upright. To assist in the lift and as a foil against any sudden blow, his other hand closed around her wrist and circled the heel of her hand.
Her skin was cool, clammy. He rarely touched Gemma skin to skin. He was well aware that if she didn’t want such contact, in a flash she might morph into one of her deadly personas; an assassin, a warrior. Skilled as he was at hand-to-hand combat, he would be hard pressed to defend himself from a violent rejection. Gemma’s nanites that maintained everything about her were programmed to win any battle. Gemma would grow stronger, faster and meaner as the conflict went on. He would lose, eventually. Even in this fabricated reality, he knew that this was an inescapable truth... that was who she was, no matter where she might be.
He braced his stomach and shoulder muscles for her to lash out. He was fully prepared to let her go, even let her fall on her face, if she gave him any sign of not wanting help.
He was walloped by a shock of raw emotions, argumentative female faces and loud voices not his own. Ripples of anger, confusion, determination, pity, and consolation coursed through her wrist into his mind. He had shared her consciousness once before but as an observer while she put the pieces of her mind back together like some giant puzzle. Now he not only understood but felt deeply how Gemma was beset by a babble of personas, each wanting to handle the situation, each wanting to dominate the moment. Beneath it all was a steely determination to succeed at her mission at all costs.
His eyes grew wide. At the very back of his mind he wondered if this powerful joining with Gemma’s mind was yet another Yautja test. He wasn’t going to let them manipulate him and her. He released her wrist. His vision cleared instantly of the earnest women and the voices and heightened emotions. Gemma stood upright.
He released her arm and took a step away. One of his arms came up instinctively to hover across his body to block any possible blow. He gasped, out of breath. He stared into her eyes as he tried to process what he had experienced.
Gemma took a moment to regain her composure. What needed to happen was clear now, but still something odd had taken place, something that was now reflecting in the towering Voth's facial expression. Her eyes narrowed causing Zub to tighten his defences, as subtle as it might have been, the ILO quickly picked up on the shift. Her gaze softened ever so lightly as a hint of a faint smile flashed on her lips.
"Here they are," Amanda announced, breaking the moment that Gemma and Zub were sharing, if that exchange could in fact be considered as such.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
AND
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
“The elusive nature of love... it can be such a fleeting thing. You see it there and it's just fluttering and it's gone.”
- Mick Jagger
=-=
"Will To Fight"
Previous post: "Threadbare" by the cozying David and Rachel
=-=
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid, Inside the Matrix
Stardate: 44355.0245
"Simone, Nathan, George, Christie... this is my sister Adriana," Amanda joyfully announced as she and the other four Terrans approached the away team. Unlike the Lopez sister though, the others appeared less than thrilled, showing signs of distrust and even animosity.
"Why are they here?" George demanded, the man in his mid-twenties appearing ready to jump and fight with anyone.
Shar’El took a deep breath. Convincing them would not be easy, and without her Ullian telepathic abilities functioning in this environment, she would have to rely on pure words and emotions. She was used to seeing personal memories and guiding conversations by detecting hesitation or hidden fears, but here, she was blind. This would be a battle of persuasion alone, and she had to make every word count.
“You don’t belong here,” Shar’El stated, her tone calm but firm. “None of you do. You were taken, imprisoned inside this machine, forced to live a life that isn’t real. We can end this, together.”
Simone folded her arms, her weary eyes scanning the away team. “You say that, but what happens when you pull the plug? You don’t know how long we’ve been here, what this place has done to us. This...” she gestured around at the fabricated reality, “... may not be real, but it’s all we have. Some of us won’t even remember how to function outside of it. I don't honestly think that I do.”
Nathan, who had remained silent, finally spoke up. “She’s right. I barely remember the real world. What if we leave and… we don’t belong out there anymore?”
“There is no ‘out there’ for us,” George scoffed, cracking his knuckles. “You think I want to leave? Here, I can fight, I can win, and I never get hurt. Out there, I’m nothing. No thanks.”
Christie, standing beside Amanda, exchanged a glance with her friend before hesitantly stepping forward. “I want to believe you,” she said, voice shaking. “I want to go back to my mother. But I don’t know if I can. I don’t even know if she’s still waiting for me.”
Shar’El saw her opening. “She is, Christie. She never stopped hoping. None of your families ever stopped hoping. They want you back. And you deserve to be free.” Her eyes scanned the group, her voice unwavering. “This place... it’s a lie. A trap. The Yautja created it to train, to experiment. You are prisoners. And prisoners don’t get to choose their fate.”
George clenched his jaw, visibly struggling against his own doubts. “If this is a prison, why aren’t we suffering?”
“Because it’s a gilded cage,” Adriana interjected, stepping beside Shar’El. “One that keeps you comfortable so you stop fighting. But it’s still a cage.”
Silence fell over the group. The words struck deep.
Finally, Simone exhaled. “Alright. Let’s say we believe you. What do you need from us?”
Shar’El nodded towards Gemma. “She has a link to this system. If we work together, we can send a signal to every Terran still trapped. We can break this place down and set you all free.”
George ran a hand through his hair, frustrated. “And what happens when we do? We just wake up?”
“Maybe,” Gemma answered, stepping forward. “Maybe not. But this system...” she gestured around them, “... it won’t let go of you without a fight.”
A deep, mechanical hum reverberated through the Matrix as if the system itself had sensed their intent.
“We don’t have time to debate,” Shar’El said. “We need to do this now.”
"No way," George huffed. "There is nothing for us out there. This is our world, our lives. You may not like it, but we do. We don't need your help."
Shar'El watched as Adriana and Amanda shared a tearful glance, they had both waited too long and come too far to not see this through. The Commander shifted her focus to Christie. "Your mother is with us. She braved unspeakable obstacles to get here... to be reunited with you, just like Adriana did for her sister Amanda. Once you are out of this fabricated reality, we will help each one of you find those you have never given up hope in getting you back."
"If my sister is here," Amanda pleaded. "If your mother is here," she continued, taking Christie's hands into hers. "Why would there not be someone out there for the rest? We knew that this was never real, and that is part of the reason why we were able to be here, like this instead of just out there having our thoughts manipulated to suit their needs for training. How many nightmares did we endure because of them? Now, today, at this very moment, we can stop being nothing and return to a real life. Feel real grass beneath our feet. Feel the warmth of a real sun on our skin, We would be able to touch real people and in return feel them touching us back."
Amanda paused for a moment, her emotional plea having a visible effect on her friends. Simone's arms, once crossed defiantly, slowly dropped to her sides. Nathan bit his lip, his gaze flickering between Amanda and the others as if waging a battle within himself. Christie wiped a tear from her cheek, shifting closer to Amanda, and even George, usually so brash, exhaled sharply, rubbing the back of his neck in frustration. The weight of her words pressed down on all of them, forcing them to confront a truth they had long buried. "This is also not just about us, but about everyone else that is trapped in here with us. Are we all willing to condemn them to a life of endless nightmares where survival is the only goal, the only thought they are allowed to have?"
The group hesitated, carefully considering what had been said. Then, one by one, they stepped forward, and slowly, carefully joined hands. They left a single opening for Gemma to step in and close the circle, which she did after giving the rest of the away team a pensive look. There were no guarantees, no assurances, and the ILO knew this all too well.
As her hands slipped into those of Amanda and Christie, Gemma closed her eyes. The moment her consciousness touched the system, the Training Matrix convulsed.
Lights flickered, the building they were in suddenly vanished and the sky above them split with jagged white fractures, and the world itself seemed to twist. A guttural roar, the sound of the system resisting their intrusion, echoed through the air.
“This is it!” Shar’El called out over the rising cacophony. “INCOMING!”
Creatures and beings from countless nightmares were shaking the ground as they rushed the away team's position. The air itself grew thick with the scent of Spartan warriors from ancient times, knights in black armor riding fiery steeds who were side-by-side with mythological monsters the likes of the Minotaur and Yeti. Even shadowy ghostly wraiths slithered in haste through the cracks of this breaking reality to join the fight, their bone-chilling wails piercing the away team's very core. The system would not let this go unchallenged. The battle would be fierce but they needed to give Gemma and the others the time they needed to hack the Matrix and free all of the minds trapped inside.
Gemma’s body trembled as the system pushed back, but she didn’t let go. And neither did the others. For the first time in years, the prisoners of the Matrix fought back... not with weapons, but with the one thing the system could never control.
Their will to be free.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
"Strength and Honor"
Previous post: "Will to Fight" by Tiffany
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid, Training Matrix
Stardate: 44355.0255
The ground trembled beneath the Caitian's feet as the nightmare tide surged forward, a horde pulled from history’s darkest myths and the fractured depths of the Matrix itself. A’Janni’s katanas gleamed in the flickering, glitch-ridden light of the simulation, their edges cutting the air with deadly purpose. Beside him, Zub Enel tightened his grip on the massive broadsword he had claimed earlier, the Voth’s immense frame standing like a fortress against the storm. They were outnumbered, outmatched, and utterly determined to hold the line.
"Too bad Ya'Han is not here," A'Janni said, his gaze locked on the approaching horde. "She would have had a field day with this, and likely would have adapted more than a few of her training scenarios to match."
"Neither Ya'Han nor Gemma need to 'upgrade' any of their training scenarios," Zub said, shooting a hurried glance at the ILO. "Their current training programs are bad enough as it is."
"Less chatting... more fighting," Shar'El yelled over the thunderous rumblings of the horde upon them.
The first wave hit like a tidal force, Spartan warriors, their eyes glowing with an unnatural fire, crashed against them with bronze shields and bloodstained spears. A’Janni moved like a blur, his feline reflexes carving through muscle and steel, his blades dancing as he weaved through the chaos. Zub, a bastion of unshakable might, swung his broadsword in wide, devastating arcs, cleaving foes in two with sheer brute force.
Adriana Lopez had no choice but to fight. With her sister Amanda clasped in Gemma’s hand, the Counselor stood between the ritualistic hacking and the enemies seeking to end it. A specter with a jagged scythe lunged at her, its wail cutting through her soul. She gritted her teeth, grabbed a fallen warrior’s sword, and drove it through the phantom’s form, watching as it dissipated into digital mist. She would not let anything take Amanda from her. Not now. Not ever.
Then, the world twisted again. Glitches rippled through the battlefield, distorting the air like heatwaves. A’Janni snarled. “Gemma, whatever you’re doing, it’s pissing them off.”
An unnatural roar split the sky.
Adriana made the mistake of speaking aloud. “At least there are no giants.”
The Matrix heard.
The second wave emerged from the fractures of this collapsing nightmare. Towering ogres, their muscles grotesque and pulsing with raw power, stomped forward. A cyclops, as large as a starship bulkhead, rumbled through the chaos, its singular eye glowing with malice. And then came the dragon... a massive, five-headed abomination, each head spitting a different element, its wings shattering the remaining illusion of a sky above them.
Zub exhaled, "Really?!?". Drawing in a deep breath, he adjusted his stance. “I hate this place.”
A’Janni wiped blood, real or simulated, he couldn’t tell, off his whiskers and turned toward Gemma. “Tell me you’re done.”
Gemma’s eyes were unfocused, her lips moving in silent calculations as she worked to rip apart the Matrix from within. The battle around them was reaching a crescendo, and they were running out of time.
The line was breaking. The end was near... but they had to hold just a little longer.
=-=
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44355.0256
"What the..." Jayson gasped from the Operations station.
"Report." Captain Morningstar requested.
"Sensors just picked up a massive energy disruption beneath the pyramids," Strk reported. "It was massive, so much so that I am sure it left a seismic mark that would have been felt over several hundred kilometers."
"Whatever it was, it got the attention of the Lokustaar," Ya'Han added. "All three capital ships are breaking orbit and moving into the planet's atmosphere. All three are heading directly for the pyramids.
"We need to get our people out of there before this turns ugly," Moringstar said, his concerns for the away team weighing heavy in his words.
=-=
Jayson Sousa
Lieutenant JG A'Janni
Flight Control Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
Lieutenant Jayson Stark
Chief of Operations
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
-=-=-
"Shadow Fighting"
Previous post: "Strength and Honor” by Jayson
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44355.0257
"We need to get our people out of there before this turns ugly," Morningstar said, his concerns for the away team weighing heavy in his words.
"The away team's life signs have not changed," Jayson reported. "Everything points to them still being unconscious with their minds likely in there, somewhere."
"The Lokustaar have opened fire on the pyramids," Ya'Han gasped, her fiery red hair showing the intensity of her focus.
-=-=-
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET's atmosphere
Stardate: 44355.0257
The nightmarish Lokustaar vessels hovered over the planet, their shimmering energy beams cutting through the atmosphere with deadly precision to impact against a partial shield protecting the Yautja structure, causing electrical discharges to spread throughout the nearby air.
It was easy to see that although the shield was protecting the pyramids and the underground structure, that it would not last very long under the relentless assault of the Lokustaar vessels
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44355.0258
"That shield is not going to hold out for much longer," Ya'Han reported, "and the Lokustaar know it.
"Fine!" Captain Morningstar huffed, sitting on the edge of his seat. "Helm, move us in to place the ANUBIS between the planet and the attacking Lokustaar."
"Captain," Ya'Han warned, her personal experience with the alien race granting her a unique, yet unpleasant, knowledge of those weapons' capabilities. "Even with our shields at full strength and the ablative armor behind it, we are no match for a Lokustaar capital vessel."
"Engineering," Morningstar continued. "We are going to need everything you can give us. We are going in against three Lokustaar ships."
=/\= THREE! =/\= Sonja bellowed. =/\= Are you out of your cotton-picking mind... SIR! =/\=
"Sonja..." Erik said in a tone that only starship captains could muster when things were dire.
=/\= Alright, I get it. The decision has been made and our lives are already in danger. I'm on it! =/\= The woman's Scottish accent only surfaced when she was upset, and judging by the thickness of her words, Sonja was not in the least bit impressed.
-=-=-
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET's atmosphere
Stardate: 44355.0259
The ANUBIS plunged into the atmosphere, its hull shuddering under the pressure as it locked into position above the Yautja structure, standing as its last line of defense. The instant the ship made contact with the powerful energy beam, a vibration flashed over the protected hull, forcing the Federation vessel down by several hundred meters
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44355.0259
The deck trembled violently as the Lokustaar beam weapon slammed into the USS ANUBIS’s reinforced ablative armor. The ship groaned in protest, its structural integrity pushed to the limit as it shielded the ancient pyramidal structure below from destruction.
“Shields at 48% and dropping fast!” Jayson grimaced as his fingers danced across his console, rerouting what little power remained to bolster their defenses. The ANUBIS was taking a beating, and in atmospheric conditions did not make things any easier.
Ya’Han gritted her teeth, her red hair flaring as she unleashed a volley of quantum torpedoes at the nearest Lokustaar capital ship. The dark, jagged vessel twisted in the sky, dodging half the incoming fire with impossible precision. The torpedoes that did land erupted against its obsidian hull, but the damage was superficial at best. The enemy simply didn’t break formation, continuing its relentless assault.
“They're not backing off,” she growled, fingers tightening around the Tactical console. “Firing full spread from forward phaser banks.”
Bright crimson beams lanced out, striking the leading enemy vessel, carving deep into its shadowed hull. But before she could press the attack, a second Lokustaar ship fired its high-energy beam directly at the ANUBIS’s starboard side. The ship lurched violently, bridge officers struggling to stay upright as the force of the impact sent consoles sparking.
Sonja’s voice crackled through the bridge’s comms, a mix of frustration and determination. =/\= I swear, Captain, we built this ship to push the boundaries of Intel operations, not to get its hull beaten in by cosmic horrors from a bad dream! =/\=
“Noted, Lieutenant Commander,” Captain Morningstar said, his voice calm despite the chaos around him. “But we’re not leaving until that away team and those captives are safe.”
=/\= Well then, Captain, you better have a damn good plan, because I’m holding this ship together with chewing gum and sheer willpower! =/\=
“Understood. Do what you can. Ya’Han, options?”
Ya’Han’s mind raced. Their weapons weren’t enough to drive the Lokustaar off. They were playing defense, and it was only a matter of time before the ANUBIS couldn’t take any more punishment.
“Sir,” she said quickly, eyes flicking over the tactical data, “if we channel the remaining power from our dorsal phaser banks and reroute it to the pulse cannons, we might be able to overload one of their ships at close range.”
“That’s a hell of a gamble,” Jayson muttered, working frantically to keep their shields from collapsing entirely.
“It’s either that or we sit here and get torn apart.”
Morningstar nodded. “Do it.”
Ya’Han’s fingers flew over the Tactical console. The ship’s power levels fluctuated dangerously as the redirected energy surged into the pulse cannons. The targeting reticles locked onto the nearest Lokustaar vessel.
“Target acquired. Firing!”
-=-=-
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET's atmosphere
Stardate: 44355.0301
With a grace that was unexpected for a vessel the size of the ANUBIS, the ship spun to bring its four pulse cannons to bear on the nearest Lokustaar vessel.
Four lances of concentrated energy erupted from the ANUBIS’s forward cannons, slamming into the Lokustaar ship at point-blank range. The beams tore through its hull, disrupting the unnatural energy keeping the ship aloft. For a brief moment, the monstrous vessel writhed as if in agony, then, with a piercing shriek over the comms, it lost control, spiraling downward toward the planet’s surface in a fiery blaze.
-=-=-
Setting: Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44355.0301
“YES!” Ya’Han cheered, immeasurable exhilaration in her voice. But there was no time to celebrate. The remaining two Lokustaar ships were already adjusting their attack patterns, their combined firepower now focused entirely on the ANUBIS.
“Captain, we’re losing altitude,” Jayson warned. “We can’t take much more of this!”
Morningstar’s jaw clenched as he watched the burning wreckage of the downed enemy ship crash into the jungle beyond the pyramids. The battle was far from over, but they had bought themselves a sliver of hope. Now, they just had to survive long enough to use it.
“Hold the line,” he ordered. “We have to give the away team as much time as possible."
=/\= WE NEED TO LEAVE NOW! =/\= Paquette's voice rang through the comm system. =/\= We are losing antimatter containment! =/\=
Morningstar clenched his jaw. He had no choice. "Helm, take us out."
-=-=-
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET's atmosphere
Stardate: 44355.0302
The Lokustaar ships hesitated as the ANUBIS withdrew... just for a moment... before resuming their attack and unleashing their full fury against their primary objective. The Yautja shield crumbled soon after, and raw energy carved into the ancient pyramids below.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
"Dreams no More"
Previous post: "Shadow Fighting” by Hanali
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid, inside the matrix
Stardate: 44355.0300
Fighting against a horde of ancient warriors and ghostly specters was bad enough, but now they faced ogres, a cyclops, and a five-headed dragon. That was just excessive.
"AMANDA!" Adriana shouted as she dove out of the way, barely escaping a set of jagged teeth that could have torn through a shuttlecraft. "WE NEED SOME HELP HERE!"
Her sister didn’t answer. None of the others in the circle did either... not even Gemma. They remained locked together, their hands clasped in unbroken unity. For a fleeting moment, as the chaos surged around them, an ethereal glow shimmered from their joined hands. Whatever they were doing, they needed to do it fast.
A'Janni and Zub were formidable warriors, but even they were outmatched, outsized, and outnumbered by the towering giants. Meanwhile, Shar’El, Ava, and Adriana had their hands full with the dragon. Unfortunately, a five-headed, starship-sized reptile held a distinct advantage over three humanoids. Dodging claws, a spiked tail, and a lethal variety of breath attacks, they struggled to stay one step ahead of the beast’s relentless assault.
Then, the ground trembled violently, but this was different from anything they'd experienced in this fabricated reality. Puzzled expressions flashed across the ANUBIS crew’s faces, but before anyone could react, a shockwave of pure light erupted from the circle, sweeping across the battlefield.
And just like that, the monsters vanished.
Breaths of relief were exhaled in unison as the team took stock of their surroundings.
"What happened?" Zub asked, the towering reptilian warrior sounding almost disappointed that his battle had been cut short.
"Someone or something saved you," A’Janni observed, his feline eyes narrowing at the now-broken circle. Each member stood alone, hands no longer clasped.
"They saved you, maybe," Zub countered as they all approached.
The banter ceased as Shar’El’s glare silenced them. "Report," she demanded.
"Something big," Gemma gasped, her breath coming in shallow bursts.
"We succeeded," Amanda confirmed hesitantly. "I think. I felt so many minds breaking free."
"That wasn’t us," Gemma corrected grimly. "The facility is under attack. The Lokustaar breached the defenses. The minds have been freed, but we weren’t able to show them the way out. Now they are just aimlessly wandering the shattered void that this training matrix has become."
Adriana’s chest tightened. "Can you go back in?" she asked, terrified that Amanda or Christie might be lost forever in this false reality.
"There’s no time," Simone interjected, her voice steady and carrying the weight of a knowledge that no one else knew she possessed. "The pyramid walls have been breached. You need to go and help those who made it out. I will stay behind and guide the others."
"No," Amanda whispered, her voice raw. "You have to come with us. You’ve always been there for us. None of us would have ever made it this far without you."
Simone gave a soft, knowing smile. "And I must continue to be... for everyone else. You have your sister waiting for you. Christie has her mother. Everyone here has someone waiting for them. I was alone when I was brought to this place so, so long ago. This will be my final gift to you, to all of you. Now, go. No more endless dreams. Be free. "
Adriana reached for her sister, desperate to keep her close, knowing what was about to happen.
"We have incoming!" Zub called out. "And these are not like the others."
Half-invisible shadows slithered between the fractured sky and distorted ground, their forms shifting like living nightmares, yet undeniably alien.
"We need to protect you," Amanda said.
"No, you don’t," George countered. "You need to leave. Now. I’ll stay and make sure Simone does what she needs to do. One last fight," he added with a genuine smile. "What more could I ask for?"
Tears that couldn’t exist in this realm burned in the twins’ eyes. The pain, however, was all too real.
"It’s okay," George reassured them. "This is what I want. Now go."
Without another word, he turned and charged toward the approaching horrors.
Gemma’s gaze hardened as she turned to face the group. With a single touch, she pulled them from the fabricated reality.
-=-=-
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the Pyramid, Control Chamber
Stardate: 44355.0305
One by one, the away team awoke, coughing as dust and debris rained from the crumbling ceiling. The attack on the Yautja facility was in full swing, and they were trapped in the middle of it.
=/\= "Finally!" =/\= Stark’s voice crackled over the comm. =/\= Stand by for emergency beam-out! =/\=
"NO!" Adriana pleaded, pushing herself up. "We have to find Amanda, Christie, and the others! We can’t leave without them! They may be lost, confused, or worse in danger. We have to find them."
"Commander Shar’El here," the First Officer cut in. "Hold transport. We’ll let you know when we’re ready. Away team out."
Gemma checked her weapons. "Time to move. We’re going to have to fight our way out., and this time the battle is not going to be a mere dream."
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
"Battle of the Unseen"
Previous post: "Dreams no More"
Location: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0310
The sounds of a raging battle echoed through the trembling walls of the pyramid, causing dust to fall upon the away team as they rushed back to the room where they had found the stasis pods. They hoped to find the pods open, with their occupants stepping out... or at least in the process of doing so.
Instead, they were met with chaos. The far wall had been destroyed, exposing the room to the jungle wilderness beyond. Debris littered the floor, though the stasis pods appeared undamaged at first glance.
As the team moved forward, Gemma abruptly extended her arm, blocking their path. "Wait," she whispered. Although the warning was for her crew, the debate raging in her mind was hers alone to hear.
"Something's not right," Anya snarled.
Kael's cryptic voice whispered faintly over Gemma's pounding heart. "Nothing is truly hidden. If you know where to start."
"The damage to the wall is too... perfect," Wimdalli added.
Kael continued, her enigmatic words further fueling Gemma's distrust. "A glimpse, a sign, a hint. Can reveal the truth, sharp as art."
The Reman bodyguard spoke next. "This feels like a trap."
"Look closely, with open eyes. And nothing will escape your mind," Kael's quiet voice warned.
Jinx's keen gaze caught something unusual. "Look at the way the dust flows in the wind. Something's diverting it... something invisible."
"For all that’s unseen can always be defined. Even shadows leave their mark when light and dark entwine," Kael intoned softly.
Gemma felt an unfamiliar surge of energy course through her body. Her vision blurred, then abruptly sharpened... revealing the impossible. "There," she whispered, her voice taut. "Three Lokustaar. Two on the edges of the opened wall, one in the center of the pods."
Shar'El gasped. "I’m not doubting you, but how can you see them? I don't see anything."
Tapping into knowledge gleaned from her connection to the Matrix, Gemma replied in an unfamiliar voice. "The Lokustaar have a biological ability to turn invisible. The Yautja use technology for the same purpose, similar to the Jem'Hadar."
Ava frowned. "That explains the 'how.' But invisibility means you can't see them. So either you are hallucinating or lying."
Gemma's eyes remained fixed on the unseen threats. "They're guarding the pods... protecting them."
"You are making less and less sense," Adriana said, her frustration mounting thanks to the growing delay in their search for her sister.
"The Lokustaar use humanoids as control modules for their bio-ships," Gemma explained without being prompted. "The Yautja also use humanoids, more specifically Terrans, albeit for a different purpose, but the concept remains the same."
"They are protecting a valuable commodity," Shar'El sadly realized.
"So, they are here to steal the pods and their contents from the Yautja?" A'Janni said, disbelief lacing his words.
"It is not that simple," Gemma continued.
"It is ever," Zub sighed.
"The Yautja are hunters, and they have been preying on the Lokustaar," the ILO detailed without any emotion. "This is the Lokustaar getting even. A retaliatory strike meant to destroy a training facility that has helped hone the Yautja's skills and at the same time deprive them of a 'commodity' that they are in equal need of." Gemma using the same word used by Shar'El sent a shiver down everyone's spine.
"We have to stop them," Adriana forcefully pleaded. "We did not go through all that just to have the Lokustaar take the Terrans."
Adriana's frustration boiled over. "We didn’t come all this way for the Lokustaar to take the Terrans."
Shar'El's face darkened. "Unfortunately, we lack the tactical advantage. Three cloaked Lokustaar are more than a match for us. We need a plan."
"I have a plan," Gemma announced. "Stay here."
Zub's voice was wary. "Stay here?"
Gemma didn’t respond. Without hesitation, she stepped into the room.
"What is she doing?" Ava gasped, rushing to the doorway. But instead of seeing Gemma, she saw nothing... just a room filled with stasis pods. "Where did she go?"
"I don’t think you'd believe me if I told you what I saw," Zub murmured, his reptilian features marked by shock.
The away team hesitated, unsure of their next move—until a blood-curdling wail shattered the air, primal and unearthly. One of the Lokustaar collapsed, its neck twisted at a grotesque angle.
"Did she do that?" Adriana gasped as the remaining two Lokustaar shimmered into view.
"I think so," Zub answered, astonishment lacing his voice.
"OPEN FIRE!" Shar'El commanded.
Phaser beams sliced through the dusty air, striking the Lokustaar. Though not enough to kill them outright, the blasts were sufficient to force a retreat. The creatures fled through the open wall and into the jungle.
Cautiously, the away team entered the room, watching as Gemma shimmered back into view.
"How?" Ava forcefully demanded, visibly shaken.
"I'm not entirely sure," Gemma admitted before turning her attention to the nearest stasis pod. "Let's open these and free whoever we can."
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
"Battle of Convictions"
Previous post: "Battle of the Unseen"
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0320
The away team had scattered through the room, opening pods and helping those inside to their feet. Most were too weak to stand, so they remained seated on the floor, savoring their first breath of freedom from the Yautja training Matrix."
After assisting a few of the Terrans, the CMO noticed Gemma standing still, her gaze lost in the surrounding jungle. She was likely ensuring that no surprise counterattack would come, but Noiva couldn't help but wonder if something else was at play in the ILO's mind... something more sinister.
As she approached, Ava tightened her grip on the medical tricorder, her fingers hovering over the activation sequence. The silvery liquid housed within the device was designed for one purpose, to neutralize Gemma’s nanites, effectively shutting down the intricate web of microscopic machines keeping her functional. Perhaps even keeping her alive.
She took a breath, steadying herself. There was no denying what had just happened. Gemma had disappeared, vanished into thin air, and when she reappeared, a Lokustaar lay dead at her feet. It was a feat that should not have been possible, not without cloaking technology or some extreme mutation. Yet, here she stood, as calm as if she had merely walked through a doorway.
This was the moment Ava had been waiting for. The moment to act before it was too late.
The tricorder chirped softly as Ava initiated a scan. Gemma remained still, offering no resistance, as if she were daring Ava to find something that would justify her destruction. Ava’s brow furrowed as she watched the readout; for the first time since meeting the operative, her medical instruments weren’t being blocked by Gemma’s nanites.
She could see everything.
What she found made her stomach turn.
“Neurological degradation,” Ava murmured, adjusting the scanner’s parameters. The damage was widespread, deep within Gemma’s cerebral cortex, affecting regions responsible for perception and cognition. “It’s extensive. This… this shouldn’t be happening.”
A slow smile curled Gemma’s lips, an expression so out of place that it sent a chill down Ava’s spine. “That would explain a lot,” she said, her tone eerily casual and hinting to a level of exhaustion she had likely never experienced before. “But it changes nothing. There are still three more rooms to liberate.”
Liberate. The word echoed in Ava’s mind, twisted by the uncertainty gnawing at her. Was this degradation the cause of Gemma’s increasingly erratic behavior? Was her unpredictability truly a malfunction, or was it something else? A form of adaptation, beyond what the GAMMA Project had ever anticipated?
Her thumb rested against the tricorder’s concealed injector, the silvery liquid a single motion away from deployment.
One press. One choice. End it now before Gemma’s instability turned into full-blown chaos.
And yet…
Ava hesitated.
**Why am I hesitating? I know what I must do.** She thought.
Against all logic, against the warnings Admiral Koniki had instilled in her about the dangerous, defective nature of Operative 01, she hesitated.
Perhaps it was the certainty in Gemma’s voice. Perhaps it was the undeniable proof that Gemma had done what no one else could... revealed the unseen enemy and turned the tide in their favor. Maybe it was the genuine care she had just shown for others, a sentiment that had never been part of the GAMMA project's programming. Yes, the operatives were programmed to emulate emotions and convincingly portray them to others, but truly caring for someone else over themselves was never part of their design. The mission, whatever it may be, always came first.
Ava took a step back, exhaling sharply. She deactivated the tricorder, sealing the lethal payload away.
Not today. Not yet.
Her voice was steady, but her mind swirled with uncertainty. “We need to monitor this… whatever is happening to you, it’s accelerating.”
Gemma’s expression remained unreadable, but the flicker of amusement in her eyes remained. “I appreciate the concern, doctor. But we have more work to do.”
Ava watched as Gemma turned away, already moving toward the next challenge. The doctor’s grip on the tricorder tightened once more, her heart pounding against her ribs.
She wasn’t sure if she had just spared a comrade…
Or doomed them all.
=-=
Dawn Bohr
Lieutenant Ava Noiva
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
=-=
"Rescued from the Shadows"
Previous post: "Battle of Convictions" by the amazing Dawn
=-=
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0335
With the ANUBIS only able to beam 18 people up at a time due to the damage sustained from the Lokustaar attack, the evacuation process was taking far longer than any member of the away team would have liked. At least communications with the ship had been fully restored.
=/\= That will be the last of your first batch, =/\= Stark reported. =/\= We'll be ready for the next when you are. =/\=
The final shimmer of the transporter beam dissipated, leaving the away team standing in the now-empty stasis chamber. The room, once filled with the eerie glow of containment pods, now bore the scars of its violent liberation—open pods, scorched walls, and a gaping hole where the Lokustaar ship had cut into the structure. Beyond the breach, the jungle pulsed with the distant echoes of war.
Shar’El took a steadying breath. One pyramid down, three more to go. The mission was far from over.
Adriana paced near one of the empty pods, her fingers clenching into fists. The absence of Amanda among the freed captives was a bitter confirmation of what she had feared. "We need to move. Now." Her voice was tight, barely masking her frustration.
Shar’El understood the urgency. They all did. Every second wasted was another opportunity for the Lokustaar to regain control. But they couldn’t afford to be reckless.
“The next stasis chamber is inside another pyramid,” Shar’El began, her sharp gaze sweeping across her team. "We have two options: we either try navigating the underground tunnels—"
“No.” A'Janni's growl was immediate, his feline ears twitching. “Those tunnels were already collapsing when we left the control room.”
“And getting trapped down there would be suicide,” Zub Enel added, his muscular arms crossing over his chest.
Shar’El gave a slight nod. She had already reached the same conclusion. “Agreed. We take the surface route.”
Gemma, despite her weakened state, flicked her gaze toward the gaping hole in the wall. Outside, the unseen battle between Yautja and Lokustaar raged on. There was no telling how many enemy forces were out there—or how many might turn their attention toward them.
Zub checked his phaser. “It won’t be a straight shot, and we’ll be exposed. We need a formation that gives us the best chance of reaching the next pyramid intact.”
“We move fast,” Shar’El decided. “No unnecessary engagements. If something gets in our way, we take it down and keep moving. The Lokustaar likely know what we’re trying to do, and they won’t give us another chance to reach those stasis pods.”
Her words hung heavy in the air. No one questioned the stakes.
Ava, kneeling beside Gemma, glanced up from scanning the Intelligence officer. “She’s in no condition to fight,” she murmured, keeping her voice low.
Gemma said nothing, her expression unreadable, but the dark bruising along her temples and the way she swayed slightly even while kneeling spoke volumes. The whispers among the team hadn’t gone unnoticed—speculations about what they had seen, about what she had done. But there was no time to process that now.
Shar’El stepped toward the breach, her gaze fixed on the tree line beyond. The battle outside was a chaotic unknown, but the mission had only one path forward.
“Form up. We move now.”
With weapons ready, the away team pressed forward, stepping into the war zone.
=-=
Tiffany Reeve
Commander Shar'El
Executive Officer
USS ANUBIS
"The Second Pyramid"
Previous post: "Rescued from the Shadows” by Tiffany
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Wilderness
Stardate: 44355.0345
The away team pressed forward through the dense jungle, their movements quick but cautious. The distant, and not-so-distant, sounds of battle between the Yautja and the Lokustaar rumbled through the trees like an ever-present storm. The war between these two relentless species engulfed the entire four-pyramid complex, and the team knew they were walking through a battlefield where either side could turn on them at any moment.
Commander Shar’El led with unwavering focus, knowing that the success of this mission depended on keeping her team alive. The first group of 64 Terrans had been freed and beamed up to the ANUBIS, but only after being released from the very stasis pods that had once held them captive. Too weak to escape on their own, they had required immediate assistance. There was no time to spare, the team had to reach those inside the second pyramid, and beyond, before it was too late.
Adriana Lopez moved with a new purpose. This was no longer a dream, no longer a desperate hope clung to over years of uncertainty, her sister Amanda was here. She had felt her, touched her within the Matrix. Amanda was waiting to be rescued, and Adriana would not leave this place without her. Fear still lingered in her mind, but it was overshadowed by certainty and determination. The Lokustaar were not here by accident. According to Gemma, they wanted revenge on the Yautja, but more than that, they wanted the Terrans for their own sinister purposes. Adriana could not let that happen.
Gemma, though weakened from her own cloaking and her brief battle with a Lokustaar, pushed forward, her unique vision now the team’s greatest advantage. She saw them, the shadowy horrors that stalked them unseen, and called out warnings when danger crept too close. Zub Enel stayed by her side, ready to defend her should her strength falter further.
A'Janni’s feline instincts kept him alert, his sharp eyes scanning the jungle as he moved, searching for threats no normal human senses could detect. The jungle was alive with danger, and even the sounds of alien roars could not mask the uneasy silence of unseen predators lurking nearby.
The second pyramid loomed ahead. Whatever awaited them inside, the away team knew one thing for certain... failure was not an option. The Lokustaar and Yautja might be at war, but here, in this place, survival belonged to those who were strong, those who were fast, and those who refused to fall.
The team stopped and gazed at the sheared wall. Like the previous pyramid, the Lokustaar had carved this one with surgical precision, exposing the stasis room. This likely meant that there would be Lokustaar guards protecting the Terrans, just as before.
"We won't have the element of surprise this time," Shar'El whispered to the others. Their approach through the clearing around the pyramid would leave them exposed and highly vulnerable.
"Gemma," Adriana prompted. "What do you see?"
"Same setup as before," the ILO replied, fatigue lacing her words. "Two Lokustaar at either edge of the opening, which likely means there will be a third inside and in the middle of the room, just like last time."
"How do we draw them out?" A'Janni asked. The tactic was sound, allowing them to fight the Lokustaar on more even ground.
"We don't," Gemma said, letting a heavy sigh escape as she turned her attention to a location beyond the gaping access into the second pyramid. "Remember, there are three players in this game."
Silence swept through the team as they considered the cryptic words... until flashes of shimmering forms appeared for a fraction of a second before immediately disappearing.
"It's the Yautja," Zub announced, almost smiling as he did so.
Ear-piercing screeches soon filled the air before the mutilated, arachnid-like form of a Lokustaar collapsed onto the ground. This nightmarish sight was soon followed by the rolling remains of a de-cloaked Yautja helmet, its wearer's head still firmly embedded inside.
The ferocity of the battle was impossible to miss, but it had given the away team the opportunity they needed to gain access to the second pyramid. Hopefully, they would be able to free the second set of Terrans before the victor of this battle turned their attention onto them.
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
"Echoes of the Matrix"
Previous post: "The Second Pyramid"
Location: UNKNOWN PLANET, Inside the 2nd pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0355
The team moved swiftly through the entrance of the second pyramid, the scent of scorched metal and the lingering aftershocks of battle filling the air. Their eyes adjusted to the dim light of the massive stasis chamber. Inside, rows upon rows of stasis pods hummed quietly, their cool surfaces reflecting the glow of their containment fields. The Terrans within, their faces frozen in tranquil oblivion, rested unaware of the horrors that had brought them here.
Gemma’s heart pounded, and her weariness almost made her falter, but she kept moving forward. Zub stayed close, watching her every step, always ready to protect her from any unseen threats. Her enhanced vision flickered as her gaze swept over the pods, and she saw them, another 64 Terrans locked in their frozen prison, each of them victims of the Yautja and the chaos of the war outside.
“They’re all here… but one,” Gemma muttered, her voice laced with fatigue as she scanned the chamber.
Zub’s gaze followed her lead, and he frowned. “What do you mean?”
Gemma pointed to a particular pod toward the back of the room. There was a space, an empty pod, sitting strangely still with the top cover slid open, as though its occupant had already been removed. “Someone’s been taken.”
Before Zub could respond, a faint sound caught Gemma’s attention. It was a soft, unearthly hum emanating from one of the other pods. She stepped closer, her hand hovering above the interface. A gentle swipe removed the dust that had fallen and revealed a red-glowing alien glyph. It was then that the ILO noticed that the dust had already been cleared from the top cover of the pod. She carefully gazed inside to confirm that it was occupied by a young boy, his face pale and his body completely still. He wasn’t just unconscious, he was unresponsive, completely void of life signs.
“Is there something wrong?” Zub asked, his voice tense as he leaned over the Intelligence Liaison Officer's shoulder.
Gemma's fingers hovered near the pod’s release mechanism. Her eyes narrowed as she recognized the boy’s face through the transparent cover. It was George. The realization hit her like a flash of recognition, a memory sparking from the depths of her mind.
“This is him,” Gemma whispered, her voice filled with awe and sorrow. “This is George... the boy we met inside the Matrix.”
Zub’s brow furrowed. “The one who...?”
“Yes,” Gemma said, her voice tight with emotion. “He sacrificed himself to protect Simone and us. He was the key to freeing the Terrans from the Matrix, and now...” Her voice trailed off as she looked at the boy, still and lifeless before her. "Now he's gone."
Zub’s expression softened as he placed a hand on her shoulder. “He died to free them. And now he’s here, in this... in this place.”
Gemma tapped the interface, and with a soft hiss, the stasis pod opened. A cold, metallic air rushed out, but it didn’t feel like a victory. They weren’t saving him. George was lost. The boy who had been their guiding light through the Matrix had already passed, his stasis pod having shut down automatically when his life force expired. There was no warmth, no pulse, just a hollow, lifeless shell.
Adriana stepped forward, her eyes wide with disbelief. “But... he was here. He helped us.”
“I know,” Gemma said quietly. “And he’s gone.”
For a moment, the weight of the loss hung heavy in the air. But Gemma quickly shook off her grief, her focus returning to the task at hand. They had come here to free the Terrans. There was no time to mourn.
“We’ll carry him back to the ANUBIS,” Gemma said firmly, wiping away the lingering sadness. “But right now, we still have to save the others.”
Zub nodded, lifting the boy gently, cradling George’s lifeless body in his arms. “We won’t let his sacrifice be in vain.”
With resolve solidified, the team pressed forward, their eyes scanning the rows of stasis pods. They couldn’t afford to linger. There were still Terrans waiting to be freed, still lives to be saved.
Gemma’s vision sharpened again, focusing on the rows of frozen prisoners ahead. Each pod held a person, a future yet to be claimed, a life interrupted by the horrors of the Yautja's need to train more effectively.
“We’re close,” she muttered, her fingers brushing against another pod. “But there’s something more here. We haven’t seen the worst yet.”
The sound of approaching footsteps made the team turn to face what they were sure was an attacker. Instead, they were met by the teary eyes of a girl with familiar features.
"Christie!" Adriana cheered, but the joy was short-lived as the daughter rushed to her friend's side, her hand touching the cold, lifelessness of his cheek.
"We cannot stay here," Shar'El noted. Get these people ready for transport. As soon as they are out of danger, we move to the next pyramid.
"You are not leaving him here," Christie cried. "Please. He deserves better."
"It's okay," Gemma said, drawing a glare from Ava who was still closely watching the operative. The tenderness in the ILO's voice was completely out of place for a woman like who she had been designed to be. "You and him are going to be safe. Just sit down," she instructed while silently motioning for Zub to place the boy down by her side. Christie held onto the lifeless form as she begged the universe to not be so cruel. Seconds later the two forms vanished in the shimmering of a transporter beam.
=/\= That's all of them, =/\= Jayson reported. =/\= Confirming another 64 people have been beamed safely aboard. =/\=
"Jayson, Gemma here," the ILO said. "Christie is amongst the last group and she's with a boy. Make sure that they are both taken good care of."
=/\= Understood, =/\= the OPS officer acknowledged, sounding a little worried about the ILO's request and what it might mean if he somehow failed to comply.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson <racheljackiejohnson@gmail.com>
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
##########
"Fears and Shadows"
Previous post: "Echoes of the Matrix" by Rachel
##########
"The joy we find in reunion is a gift, but it is one wrapped in sorrow, for only through the passage of loss do we truly understand the value of what we gain."
- El-Aurian belief
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Sickbay
Stardate: 44354.0400
The arrival of the freed Terrans aboard the USS ANUBIS presented an overwhelming challenge for the medical staff. The majority of these individuals were in a state of severe distress: muscular atrophy, malnutrition, and a spectrum of psychological trauma. They were barely clinging to life, and every moment was crucial for their recovery.
Among those in the medical bay was Cristhiane, who had quickly volunteered her assistance. Dr. Andersson, while grateful for the extra hands, could see the strain in her eyes. She had become an essential part of the team, but the truth was that Cristhiane’s willingness to help wasn’t just driven by compassion—it was her way of keeping her mind and body occupied.
With every Terran brought aboard, Cristhiane's thoughts inevitably turned to her own daughter. The sight of the weakened survivors—their flinching at every sound, the pain and fear in their eyes—was almost too much to bear. She imagined her daughter in their place, suffering in ways she couldn’t even fathom. If anything could keep the crushing weight of guilt at bay, it was the work she was doing here. If she didn’t stay focused on the mission, she feared her mind would break under the emotional burden.
Despite how well she managed her emotions outwardly, everyone could see what her words didn’t express. The slight tremor in her hands when she touched a patient, the way her eyes would unfocus as if lost in some distant thought, and the way she flinched at the sound of the Sickbay door opening. It wasn’t just the door’s sound that startled her—it was the anticipation, the hope that it might be her daughter, or the crushing reality that it might not.
It wasn’t just the victims Cristhiane was concerned with. She acknowledged that, had it not been for the ship and its crew, none of these people would have been saved… not even her. After all, she, too, had been a victim. A victim of circumstances beyond her control. Yet somehow, she had found herself here, on this ship, with a second chance at redemption. But redemption didn’t change the fact that, for all she knew, her daughter could still be out there, lost and suffering.
For now, all Cristhiane could do was wait… wait for the next group of Terrans to arrive, wait for news of her daughter, and hope. Hope that one day, she would find her, that she would be among the saved. But until then, she would keep working, keep helping, because it was all she could do to keep the darkness at bay.
=/\= Transporter room 3 to Sickbay… we have one DOA. =/\=
Cristhiane’s heart stopped. She looked at Dr. Andersson, desperately searching for some confirmation she didn’t want to receive. The expression on Sofia’s face, as well as the sombre looks of the rest of the medical team, left no room for doubt. Visions of Christie, brought in on an anti-gravity stretcher, pushed Cristhiane to the very edge of an emotional eruption, one that no one would have been able to contain.
Seeing the distress in Cristhiane’s demeanour, Dr. Andersson approached her cautiously.
“It is likely not her,” Sofia said, her voice soft, trying to reassure the troubled mother. “If it was, I’m sure Shar'El or someone else from the away team would have said something.”
Cristhiane nodded, though her tears were threatening to break through. How could anyone on the away team have known who her daughter was? Cristhiane had last seen her daughter years ago, and the visions that had haunted her were nothing but fragments of a distant past. Yes, there would be some family resemblance, but would it have been enough for anyone to recognise her?
Her breath caught in her throat as the door to Sickbay hissed open once more. Another group was being escorted in, but this time she couldn’t bring herself to help. She stood frozen, watching as each Terran was guided in, one by one, with the crew offering support. The door remained open after the last rescued Terran had entered, allowing Cristhiane to hear the approaching anti-gravity stretcher. Part of her wanted to run, to scream, to cry, but Sofia’s words echoed in her mind, playing on an endless loop… “It is likely not her.”
It was a sliver of hope and the only thing she could hold on to at the moment.
Then, a different kind of tear slid down her cheek when she saw her daughter, standing next to the stretcher. Christie was obviously there for someone else, but right now, all Cristhiane cared about was that her daughter was alive. The moment their eyes met, both mother and daughter rushed into each other’s arms, overwhelmed by emotion as they cried together, both finally feeling the weight of their reunion.
--==/\==--
From the still-open doorway to Sickbay, Captain Erik Morningstar watched the heartwarming reunion in silence. His heart ached at the sight of the two women locked in each other’s arms, a moment that, only moments ago, had seemed impossible. The news that one of the Terrans had been declared DOA had brought him to Sickbay... he needed to understand who it was and how this loss would ripple through the crew.
Though he deeply felt the loss of that single life... one more among far too many claimed by this mission... Morningstar couldn’t ignore the weight of the greater sacrifice. The pain of that loss was made bearable by the reality of the embrace between mother and daughter, made possible by the sacrifice of a soul who had given everything for their freedom.
In that quiet, intimate moment, Erik offered a silent prayer of gratitude for the fallen, knowing that their sacrifice had not been in vain. The impossible had become possible... hope had been restored.
--==(/\)==--
Francois Charette
Captain Erik Morningstar
Commanding Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
--
"I used to think it was awful that life was so unfair. Then I thought, wouldn't it be much worse if life were fair and all the terrible things that happen to us come because we actually deserve them. So now I take great comfort in the general hostility and unfairness of the universe."
- Marcus Cole, Babylon 5
=-=
"Strike 3"
Previous post: "Fears and Shadows" by Cristhiane and Francois
=-=
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Jungle Between 2nd and 3rd Pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0405
Zub Enel tucked his 7-foot-tall silhouette into a squat beside the base of a pale yellow tree strangled with bright emerald vines. The jungle spanned the distance between the second pyramid and the third. The battle between the Yautja and the Lokustaar rumbled nearby. An errant ray sizzled into the branches above Zub. He was pelted with splinters and burning embers. Bits of singed vines stinking like burnt hydrocarbon dropped on his crested head. Zub batted them off. He rose slightly trying to see through trees and over shrubs for the nearest engaged combatants. He could tell where they were by flashes and buzzing of weaponry. He turned toward the away team and raised all three fingers of one hand and one on the other.
Commander Shar’El asked the rest of the team around her, “Four? Four what? Bodies? Distance to the enemy?”
A’Janni said, “That's his IQ.”
Gemma looked drawn. She said wearily but with confidence, “He’s saying four combatants nearby. He’s pointing to our right.”
Shar’El nodded. “We don’t have time to clear them out. Let’s get to the third pyramid and see if the Lokustaar have already sliced it open for us. Zub will stay out front and skirmish for us. I’ll take point. A’Janni secure our right flank. Gemma, the left. Doctor, Counselor, please stay in the middle. Okay, let’s move.”
As the away team member took their positions, Shar’El motioned to Zub to head toward the third pyramid. The big lizard man nodded his understanding.
Gemma slipped to the left, moving with an eerie precision that belied the fatigue etched into her face. Her nanites adjusted her vision spectrum, filtering out the thick green foliage to reveal thermal signatures beyond the treeline. She scanned the jungle for any movement, her senses attuned to the slightest hint of danger. Her voice, though low and calm, held a steely edge as she relayed updates to the team.
"Two hostiles, ten meters to our flank," she reported over the comm. "They're stationary, likely setting up an ambush."
Shar'El's curt acknowledgment buzzed through her earpiece. "Keep eyes on them but don't engage unless necessary. We need to move fast."
Acknowledging with a subtle nod, Gemma melted into the shadows, her movements fluid and deliberate. The cacophony of combat in the distance became a dull hum in her mind as she focused on securing the left flank. Her inner voices murmured, a constant chorus of personalities vying for attention, but she forced them to quiet.
Not now, she thought firmly. This mission needs a focused mind.
Her pulse remained steady, even as the Lokustaar's guttural screeches echoed through the jungle. There was no room for fear, only strategy and survival. Gemma's cold, calculating demeanor took over as she led the left flank with deadly focus, ensuring the team's path to the third pyramid remained clear.
Zub had moved ahead of the team, his head below the level of the leggy aromatic shrubs he had to push through. They were leaving stinging scratches along his scales. But he ignored the pain. He searched ahead through the thick foliage for an opening between the jungle and the pyramid. He didn’t know how many troops either the Lokustaar or Yautja had, but he hoped it wasn’t enough to form a battle line between the away team and the pyramid.
Ducking low, he slipped between two of the thorny shrubs and smacked into something solid, warm and alive that he couldn’t see. His mind, already racing, went to Warp 10. Humanoid. Facing away. Cloaked. Yautja!
Afraid the warrior was already turning to fire; Zub Enel threw an old-fashioned punch into thin air. His bony fist connected with invisible armor, a piece that rocked backward. A helmet? Knowing now the assailant’s approximate height, Zub loosed a powerful kick about chest level. Another solid connection with something hard. The shrubs in front of him waved and bent as something fell. Zub knew a Yautja was a consummate warrior. It was probably aiming its weapon even as it toppled backward. Zub had no cover. He leaped to the side hoping the predator would miss.
There was movement from Zub’s left. Startled, he spun and raised his hands in self-defense, sure he faced two assailants.
Appearing suddenly in mid-stride, Gemma rushed in with a wickedly long, exotic knife. In a flash of insight, he guessed that due to Gemma’s lethal prowess the original owner no longer needed it. Her face was fierce, teeth bared. She plunged the knife in a blur of motion near the ground. There was a howl and a gurgle. The blood welled up around the blade. The gurgling stopped. She stood, locked him with a grim stare and then took off back to the left flank. Her still invisible victim lay dead somewhere on the ground.
Zub felt a surge of gratitude. Gemma was truly a one-person army.
His attention was caught by movement he could see through gaps in the jungle growth. Stasis pods were being carried from the blown open pyramid. He couldn’t see anyone or anything carrying the pods, but the movement was odd, not bipedal like the Yautja. He ran in a crouch back to Shar’El who was leading the rest of the team.
“We have to hurry, Commander. The Lokustaar are taking away the pods.”
Gemma closed her eyes as a searing wave of agony rippled through her body, sharp and unrelenting. The cloaking and combat enhancements Kael had imparted gave her an edge against the Yautja and Lokustaar... but at a devastating price. Her nanites worked frantically to repair the damage, but they couldn't keep up with the relentless strain. Every move felt like tearing through raw nerve endings.
She knew she was pushing herself beyond her limits, teetering on the edge of collapse, but there was no time for recovery. There never was. The mission was merciless, just like the foes she fought tooth and nail. Rest was a luxury she couldn’t afford. Survival demanded one thing: press forward, endure the pain, and pay whatever cost was necessary to see it through.
=-=
Rachel Jackie Johnson
Lieutenant Gemma
Intel Operative
USS ANUBIS
[The fun is getting to wear multiple disguises and getting to explore multiple personalities and bring them to life. - Jenna Fischer]
AND
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
“[S]he is a [wo]man of courage who does not run away, but remains at he[r] post and fights against the enemy.”
- Socrates
-=-=-
"Plan B"
Previous post: "Strike 3” by David and Rachel
-=-=-
Setting: USS ANUBIS, Bridge
Stardate: 44355.0410
The bridge of the ANUBIS pulsed with urgency, every officer locked into their station, their focus razor-sharp as chaos unfolded on the planet below. At Tactical, Lieutenant Ya’Han’s fingers flew across her console, her crimson-and-black hair swaying as she tried to make sense of the unfolding battle. Detecting the Lokustaar vessels had been one thing, but the brutal war raging on the ground was another. The sensors struggled to keep up with the unpredictable shifts of the away team, their movements erratic, forced, desperate. Something was happening down there. Something bad.
Then the incoming transmission cut through the tension like a knife.
=/\= Shar'El to Ya’Han! The Lokustaar are moving the stasis pods out of the third pyramid! We need to stop them... now! =/\=
A jolt of adrenaline shot through her. She snapped her gaze toward Stark at OPS. "Jayson, lock onto the pods and beam them directly to the cargo bay!"
Jayson’s fingers moved in a blur over his controls, but almost immediately, his frustration bled into his voice. "Pods? What pods?! I mean, I see them, barely! There’s something in their structure, some kind of interference-generating material. The transporter can’t get a solid lock. We can’t beam the Terrans up while they’re still inside!"
Damn it. Ya’Han gritted her teeth. "Can we adjust the targeting scanners to a narrower, more sensitive bandwidth?" She knew Sonja would have approved of that idea.
Jayson shook his head, his hands still working furiously. "Scanners are already at max sensitivity. Maybe if Maya works her magic, we could get a lock, in a day or so. Hours, if we’re lucky."
A day? They didn’t have minutes.
Ya’Han’s mind raced. The Yautja had designed these pods to be impossible to steal, ensuring their prized captives remained untouchable. And the Lokustaar? They weren’t just eliminating resistance. They were securing their acquisitions before anyone else could take them.
Her pulse pounded. There had to be another way.
"If we use precision phaser fire," she said, thinking fast, "we can cut off the Lokustaar advance, force them back toward the away team. That could buy them time to get the captives out of the pods."
Captain Morningstar turned to her, his expression unreadable, but his tone was firm. "And risk drawing the attention of the two Lokustaar capital ships still in high orbit? We’re barely holding together as it is following the last encounter. If they focus fire on us, we won’t survive."
The weight of his words pressed down on her. He was right, he always was. The ANUBIS wasn’t built for the kind of prolonged, full-scale relentless assault it had been subjected to. They needed another option. Fast.
Then it hit her. A bold, dangerous idea. The initial idea of a covert operation was no longer an option, they needed something more direct.
She tapped her combadge. "Ya’Han to MACO team. The away team including your CO is in trouble. They need urgent backup."
The response was instantaneous. Eager.
=/\= MACOs standing by, Ma'am. Ready for immediate deployment! =/\=
Ya’Han nodded sharply to Jayson. "Do it."
In the next instant, the ship’s elite Marine combat unit vanished in a shimmer of blue light, materializing straight into the war zone below.
The battle wasn’t over. Not even close. But for the first time in what felt like an eternity, the away team might actually have a decisive advantage.
-=-=-
Hanali Han
Lieutenant Ya'Han
Chief of Security / Tactical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501
"Standing Still"
Previous post: "Rescued from the Shadows” by Tiffany
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Wilderness
Stardate: 44355.0410
Adriana’s breath hitched, her pulse hammering in her ears as she watched the impossible sight unfolding before her. Through the tangled jungle growth, the stasis pods floated eerily, moving as if carried by unseen hands. No, not hands... the Lokustaar. Their wretched, unnatural presence was unmistakable, a suffocating shadow against reality itself.
A cold wave of dread crashed over her. Her chest tightened, her throat constricting as the thought struck her like a lightning bolt: Amanda could be in one of those pods.
Her body refused to move at first, frozen between the sheer terror of losing her sister forever and the desperate urge to act. Rationality tried to take hold, whispering that they still had time, that they could track the pods, that all was not lost, but that voice was drowned out by the deafening roar of panic rising inside her.
She clenched her fists, nails digging into her palms hard enough to draw blood. The pain was a distant sensation, irrelevant compared to the storm raging in her mind. If the Lokustaar took those pods off-world, if they disappeared into the void, that would be it. Amanda would be gone. Forever.
Then, through the flickering jungle shadows, she saw it.
A nightmare made flesh. A mass of writhing darkness, not merely the absence of light but something deeper, more primal, more wrong. It slithered into existence from the folds of reality itself, its limbs too many, shifting and undulating like liquid smoke. Jagged, glistening mandibles clicked together in eerie silence, a whisper of movement that sent ice splintering through her spine. Its eyes, if they could be called that, were small red orbs originating from an infinite void that seemed to drink in all hope, all light, all sanity.
She recoiled instinctively, bile rising in her throat, her knees nearly buckling under the sheer, oppressive weight of its presence. The air around it warped, a suffocating, cloying force that made her feel as though she were drowning on dry land. It wasn’t just looking at her, it was inside her, pressing against her mind, clawing at the edges of her very being.
Adriana forced herself to swallow the panic, but it was like trying to shove a tidal wave into a bottle. Her breathing was ragged, her thoughts a spiraling mess of horror and helplessness. She wanted to scream, to run into the jungle and tear the pods away from their unseen captors with her bare hands. But she couldn’t. Not yet.
She turned sharply to Shar’El, her vision blurred by tears, her voice coming out strained, barely above a whisper. “Commander… we have to stop them.”
The urgency in her own words wasn’t enough. It wasn’t nearly enough to match the sheer, crushing weight of what was at stake. Every second that passed stretched into eternity, each one a chance slipping through her fingers. Her world narrowed to a single desperate certainty:
They had to get to those pods. No matter what.
Because if they didn’t… she would never see Amanda again.
-=-=-
Marissa Montonera-Lombardi
Lieutenant JG Adriana Lopez
Ship's Counselor & Junior Ambassador
USS ANUBIS
=-=
“Bugle Call”
Previous post: "Standing Still" by Marissa
=-=
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, In the jungle near the third pyramid,
Stardate: 44355.0412
Following Adrianna’s horrified gaze, three phaser beams transfixed the nightmarish figure with its cluster of evil red eyes. It swayed and threw out its many arms and loosed a piercing screech loud enough to rattle eardrums. Warbling, the bright beams, from Zub Enel, Shar’El and A’Janni, stayed fixed on the Lokustaar. It’s shielding glowed in a fiery red globe around it. The globe flared and began to fade, laced with widening dark holes. Overloaded, the dome dissipated. The writhing beast, itself caught in a lethal triad of full-on phaser beams, glowed in bright amber. A moment later the creature was gone.
There was an ear-ringing moment of silence as the phasers cut out. A’Janni growled, “One down. Ten billion to go.”
Dr. Noiva put a hand on Adrianna, trying to relieve her trembling. Adrianna’s breath caught. Her eyes brimmed but didn’t spill tears. She hissed, “We’ve got to stop them. Amanda….”
Shar’El checked the charge on her phaser. There was plenty left. She said to her team, “Let’s get to the edge of the jungle and find cover we can shoot from. Shoot between the pods. We may not be able to see them, but we know what’s carrying them. Each of you pick a gap and pour on the heat. Let’s go.”
At the last bit of vegetation, Zub stood behind a big tree and sidled around it just enough to aim his phaser. He loosed a beam at a gap between the last pod and the pyramid. Other phaser beams shot from various parts of the jungle edge. Enel couldn’t see Gemma. He hoped that if she was out of the jungle ranging among the pods like an invisible assassin, she’d stay out of the way of phaser fire.
=-=
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, Outside the third pyramid,
Stardate: 44355.0414
Between the sliced open pyramid and the jungle, MACO Sergeant Mi’Teh (callsign “Ghost”) appeared in the scintillation of a transporter beam with 5 other troopers. Being a two-meter high Lurian, he immediately went down on one knee to assess, aiming a long black weapon everywhere he looked.
Other MACOs were appearing. Unfortunately, the sparkling glow of transporter beams made them instant targets. Each of his Marines had a personal energy shield activated so he wasn’t too worried about the fire converging on his troops. The shields might not last long though. Smiling grimly, Ghost guessed the transporters on the ANUBIS had a major workout beaming down all 50 of the MACOs simultaneously.
The air stank of ozone and sizzling flesh. Bright blue rays were pulsing from the jungle targeting the weird procession of pods with nothing bearing them from the pyramid. Red rays emanated from between the pods back toward the jungle. There were also scattered volleys of yellow rays from near the torn open pyramid.
Trees on the edge of the jungle were crisscrossed with scorch marks. The shrubs beneath smoked and blazed. He guessed that it was the Away Team right there on the edge blasting away.
“Sarg!” Through the com of Ghost’s open-faced helmet, his best sniper, Corporal Diaz’s (callsign “Viper) didn’t have her usual calm. “We have an active three-way. Lokustaar, Yautia and the Away Team. A lot of slicing and dicing out here.”
“Understood,” Ghost said, “Work in twos. One concentrates fire on the gaps between the pods. Two surpasses any return fire. Viper, see if you can locate and hit whatever type of craft they are carrying those pods to.”
“On it, Sarge.”
The MACO’s set to work, crouch-walking and firing their heavy weapons, advancing slowly but inexorably toward the line of pods. Between the pods, shields glowed bright red and went out. Then something with wriggling legs and strangely compelling red eyes began to glow in the moments before disappearing in plasma fire.
=-=
David Michael Inverso
Lieutenant JG Zub Enel
MCO
USS ANUBIS, NCC 18501
“Giles, remember what the General said: We're the cavalry. It would be bad form to arrive in advance of schedule. In the nick of time would do nicely."
—Colonel Vandeleur, A Bridge Too Far”
"Operative Connection"
Previous post: "Bugle Call"
Setting: UNKNOWN PLANET, In the jungle near the third pyramid
Stardate: 44355.0425
The battlefield was chaos incarnate. The air was thick with the acrid scent of plasma burns and the eerie screeches of the Lokustaar as they clashed with the away team and the elusive Yautja hunters. The darkness of the alien structure was broken only by the sporadic flicker of weapons fire, illuminating the nightmare that surrounded them. And yet, amidst the madness, Ava knelt beside Adriana, steadying the Counselor as she grappled with the harrowing possibility that Amanda, her twin, might be trapped in one of the stasis pods being taken away.
"Amanda...," Adriana whispered, her voice a fragile breath against the cacophony of battle. "We have to find her."
Ava wanted to offer comfort, but words felt empty in the face of such uncertainty. Instead, she simply placed a steadying hand on Adriana’s shoulder, grounding her as best she could. Her focus, however, was divided. Gemma was missing... yet again.
It should have been alarming, but Ava had started to question everything she had been told about Operative #1. She was unpredictable, yes, but was she truly a danger? If anything, Gemma had risked herself time and time again to protect the crew. And now, knowing that her new cloaking ability, absorbed from her time linked to the Yautja training matrix, was causing possibly fatal neurological damage, Ava found herself grappling with an unexpected emotion.
Concern.
The sound of battle began to dissipate. The Marines under the command of Zub had proven more than effective in turning the tide and ensuring that none of the stasis pods from the third pyramid were taken away.
With the MACOs securing the remaining stasis pods, Ava and Adriana turned their attention to identifying their contents. As each pod was opened, the Terran within was beamed to the ANUBIS under the scrutinizing gaze of the away team. In the end, the results were disheartening. Amanda was not among them. But what they did find was enough to still the battle raging inside Ava’s mind.
Gemma lay motionless, partially obscured by the mangled remains of several Lokustaar. The black ichor of the shadowy creatures pooled around her like ink spilled upon the ground. Her body, battered and bruised, was proof of the struggle she had endured, and won.
Ava knelt beside her, quickly assessing the damage. Severe neural strain, multiple contusions, but most concerning of all, the telltale signs of systemic neurological degradation resulting from her unauthorized cloaking ability. She had pushed herself beyond her limits, and for what?
"Gemma," Ava called, pressing two fingers to the operative’s neck. A pulse, weak but steady. Relief flooded her in an unexpected wave.
The ILO's eyelids fluttered before slowly opening, revealing the dull but still sharp gaze of a woman who knew exactly what she was doing. She blinked at Ava, her lips curling into a weak but knowing smirk.
"Genuine concern?" Gemma rasped, her voice laced with exhaustion. "Isn't that against your programming?"
Ava stiffened, but the usual instinct to deflect or deny did not come. Instead, she found herself studying Gemma in a way she hadn’t before. She was no longer just Operative #1, a creation of the GAMMA project deemed to be malfunctioning and highly dangerous. Gemma was an integral part of the crew, someone who had managed to endear herself to her shipmates. For a brief moment, Ava glanced in the direction of the Voth, his feelings for the ILO had been impossible to miss.
"How?" Ava asked Gemma, half-concerned that this might be the last opportunity to get any real answers from the ILO.
"It was the hatred in your eyes," Gemma said before coughing up a thick line of blood. "I saw him in your eyes when you looked at me."
"You always knew, didn’t you?" Ava murmured, her tone unreadable.
Gemma’s gaze softened. "You're too much like me not to notice. The way you move, the way you think. You’re me... at least the newer model of what I was meant to be."
Ava inhaled sharply but did not deny it. Noiva, Operative #2, created to be an improvement on the original. Her mission was to monitor, test, and ultimately terminate Operative #1 to prove to Admiral Koniki the failure he deemed her to be.
Yet looking at Gemma now, Ava could not see the defective, dangerous liability she had been programmed to expect. All she saw was a woman who had done everything in her power to protect the crew of the ANUBIS, no matter the cost to herself.
"I was sent here to assess you," Ava admitted quietly. "To ensure that you were... what they claimed you were."
Gemma huffed a weak chuckle. "And? What’s your verdict?"
Ava hesitated, then, for the first time since stepping onto the ANUBIS, she abandoned protocol. "I think... I think they... I think he was wrong about you."
For a long moment, silence stretched between them, the din of battle fading into the background. Then, Gemma did something that Ava did not expect. She reached up, fingers brushing lightly against Ava’s forearm.
"I’ll take that as a compliment," Gemma whispered, exhaustion dragging her voice lower. "Not bad coming from someone who was supposed to kill me."
Ava exhaled a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. "Get some rest, Gemma. I’ll make sure you get through this."
Gemma smiled, genuine and unguarded. "Now that sounds like a defect in your programming."
Ava shook her head, a small smile ghosting across her lips. Maybe it was. Maybe she was more flawed than she realized. But in this moment, as she carefully lifted Gemma to get her to safety, she no longer cared. For the first time, Ava chose to care.
And it had nothing to do with programming.
Noticing Ava carrying Gemma to a more secure location, Zub and Shar'El quickly rushed in. Without asking, the massive Voth took the weakened, almost lifeless woman into his arms.
"Doctor," the Commander gasped. "Will she be alright?"
Ava smiled as she looked at Gemma being so tenderly taken away. "She needs to be sent back to the ANUBIS and told not to use that damn cloaking ability ever again. It's killing her."
Shar'El let out an audible sigh of relief before her expression tightened into deep concern. "Where's Adriana?"
Ava spun on her heels. With everything that had happened with Gemma, the CMO had actually forgotten about the Counselor. Following a quick scan of the area, Noiva noticed a familiar form rushing through the jungle toward the fourth and final pyramid.
"There!" She pointed at the fleeing woman.
"What is she doing?" Shar'El gasped.
"Going after her sister since she wasn’t in any of the pods we saved from the Lokustaar," Ava's reply lacked its usual clinical detachment. Adriana had made a choice, and Noiva was not the type to put her own life in danger to help... at least, she hadn’t been until now.
Without any warning, the CMO bolted in the direction of the Counselor, displaying an unexpected speed and agility that Shar'El could only compare to Gemma’s.
=-=
Dawn Bohr
Lieutenant Ava Noiva
Chief Medical Officer
USS ANUBIS, NCC-18501