Shakedown

Once the meeting concluded with the newly arrived X'Ell CSO, the captain of the Phoenix headed back toward the bridge to confer with the remaining bridge officers. Arriving, he worked his way into the center seat for the first time since his return to the ship. One-by-one each department head reported their readiness for departure.

“Lieutenant P'Trell, contact the docking master.”

“Aye Captain,” the Andorian Ops officer confirmed as he initiated the order. Moments later he had a response.

“We are cleared to depart in ten minutes Captain.”

Engaging ship wide communications, Syntron made the announcement.

“This is your captain. The moorings are about to be released and we are T-minus ten minutes from departure.  All hands prepare for launch.”

The turbolift doors wooshed open to admit Jonathan Livingstone on the bridge, conversing with the Andorian Kalynda Hunter at such a low level that no one but the Vulcan captain could hear them. The X'Ell was finishing telling his assistant that he would have to do some research under classified stattus , to which she would not be privy to; and that was not because of a lack of confidence in her but because of orders. She was puzzled but acknowledging the situation as they both settled at the science stations.

Jonathan was the first to report from his post.

''All sensors are calibrated and tested for operations. Computer banks have been refreshed and updated. Science personell complement is at minimal operational capability. We are already for launch, Captain.''

Seizing the minuscule time available before the ship began to exit its docking berth, the chief counselor slipped away from her post and toward the nearby science station.

“Greetings,” the attractive hairless officer almost purred as she approached the unique X’Ell CSO.  “I am Celestine Bijoŭ. I am this ship’s counselor and I wanted to welcome you aboard. Please feel fee to talk with me about any professional or personal thoughts or concerns that may arise. I can imagine that serving on this vessel may require quite a bit of adjustment. I am here to assist you in easing in that transition.”

The avian humanoid blinked at her, his crest suddenly flaring up and coloring a bright indigo hue. All the feathers visible, and covered by clothing, swelled noticeably. it took a moment before he responded in a strangled voice.

''I... beg your indulgence, Counselor. I never met one of your... species before. I have heard... but I seem to be... unduly... responsive to your... pheromones. I think I shall need, ah, medical assistance in your, ah, vicinity. An olfactive blocker seems to be in order.''

The coloring on the Deltan’s glowing face suddenly shifted to a slight azure shade as she witnessed the unexpected reaction she evoked on the new avian officer. Apologizing profusely, she immediately backed away from the X’Ell then hailed sickbay.

“Droctor Gray. This is Celestine Bijoŭ. Could you please come to the bridge with an olfactory blocker suited for our new X’Ell science chief?”

Doctor Gray phased into existence a few feet away.

"Please state that nature... wait you need a what now?"

The face of the elder hologram contorted as he extended his right hand and a hypospray materialized under the blue hue of a medical transport.

"Do I even want to know what this is for?"

Livingstone answered without even a hint of surprise at the instantaneous appartion of the grey-haired and bearded human, nor discomfort with what he was teling.

''As you are undoubtebly aware, Doctor Gray, Counselor Bijou is Deltan; she emits pheromones that are intensely arousing to all species... including mine, apparently. And my typically weak immune system is unable to compensate for my equally strong olfactory sensibility. This makes our interactions... uncomfortable.''

Doctor Gray tilted his head listening to the story unfold.

The Deltan counselor had already skulked her way back to her post by the time the EMH appeared. At first, she fidgeted in her chair, swaying from side-to-side before engaging her console. She was alarmed by the reaction the X’Ell had near her presence.

She had worked diligently to contain the impact her pheromones produced, especially while on duty. Despite quickly reviewing the medical records of the CSO before he arrived on the bridge, she saw no indication that he would be affected by her physiology in that manner.

Witnessing the minor fiasco that unfolded, the captain stepped away from the center seat and approached the counselor.

“It has been noted that when you take chances, it is likely that mistakes may occur. Yet that is how you will continue to grow.”

“Sir?” Celestine countered, a bit perplexed by his statement.

“Mistakes are a fact of life counselor. It is the response to error that counts,” he elaborated.

“Doing my job is not a mistake or an error, Sir.”

An eyebrow slightly elevated.

“It is important that you recognize that counselor,” the captain added as he turned and headed back toward the center seat.

Doctor Gray sighed slightly and extended both his hands where more hypospray materialized.

"So you called me up here because your arousal is making it impossible to function?"

Gray held the hyposprays out.

"Which one of you perverts is first?"

The X'Ell turned indigo again. His voice was tense, raspy, his breathing shallow through his open, reddening beak.

''Just... me, Doctor. I would become... unable to do my duty... properly if I... stayed in this... state. And not just... Counselor Bijou would be... somewhat... hampered, if I... regularly... performed mating songs and... dances on... the bridge. The... blame is... entirely... on me, Doctor; everyone else is... well adjusted to the... Counselor except... me. And it will take... too much... time... for my... weak immune system to... naturally... cope as well as... everyone else; if... ever. I'm... afraid the... millions of years of... isolation of my... people give me... little choice but... artificial... solutions.''

He turned a bit and extended his leathery, elongated neck towards the EMH's hand.

Doctor Gray sighed.

"Just you then?" he noted as he adjusted the hypospray.

"You get a double dose then."

Doctor Gray pressed the hypospray against the leathery skin in front of him. The recognizable hiss of a hypospray signaled the treatment was completed. Doctor Gray turned to leave before placing a hypospray down on the console.

"I will leave this here in case you find yourself unable to fulfill your duties again. Perhaps next time you will treat yourself and not bother me with such things, or just splash some cold water on yourself. After all, I'm a doctor not an icepack."

The X'Ell opened his beak as if to say something then nodded and afixed the hypospray to his belt.

''Recommendation noted, Doctor. Thank you for your kindness.''

Just as the unexpected situation with the X’Ell began to resolve, a signal was sent from the docking station. The helm officer listened to the message, then turned toward the captain.

“Docking umbilicals have been released. Docking doors are now opening. We are permitted to depart on your order, Sir.”

 The Vulcan captain scanned the bridge swiftly before engaging ship-wide communications.

“All hands, prepare for launching sequence to commence.”

He nodded to the helm officer.

“Clear all moorings then take us out. Aft thrusters… one quarter impulse power.”

“Implementing now Captain,” came the response as the ship tugged forward.

Carefully, it was guided out from the interior of the docking bay and through the narrow threshold of the wide opened docking doors. Their limited view swiftly expanded to the vastness of open space among the stars and other celestial objects.

The bridge was silent as they emerged. Even the veteran officers marveled at the vista before them.   

Syntron then turned toward the science station.

“Lieutenant Commander Livingstone, what are the first science department priorities that need to be tested during our shakedown cruise?”

''Long range scanners accuracy and sensor reliability, Sir.''

As they moved further away from the starbase, the captain replied, “You can start sensor readings now Lieutenant Commander. Determine if there are any anomalous reading anywhere in the distant vicinity.”

Then he turned to the human manning the engineering station.

“Lieutenant Hudson, what is the current status of our warp drive?”

Looking up from the console, Leland Hudson reported “Warp drive is ready to initiate at your command Sir,”

“Acknowledged.” The Vulcan recast his focus on the Ops station.

“Lieutenant P'Trell, any abnormal indications from any department or deck since launch?”

“All clear so far, Captain,” the Andorian Ops chief affirmed.

Leaning back into the center seat, the Vulcan commanded.

“Helm, increase to full Impulse. Prepare to engage warp drive upon my order.”

The Avenger-class Star Cruiser effortlessly hummed into full impulse.

Livingstone then turned to face the command chair.

''Captain; long range sensors briefly detected two vessels in the vicinity of the Azimuth Horizon anomaly.''

The blank stares he received prompted him to elaborate.

'I checked flight data from our computer banks and corroborated it with starbase files; there is no other flight plan registered in this area but that of only one ship; the USS Wisconsin.''

“Acknowledged,” the Vulcan captain noted stoically as he repositioned himself within the center seat. He knew that the other ship would likely be the U.S.S. Achilles under acting captain Commander David Rogers control. But this information would remain unknown to his remaining crew, at least for the time being.

“Helm, mark our coordinates into the region of the Wisconsin, then incrementally increase power to warp 5. Engage.”

''Aye, Sir, implementing warp 1.''

The familiar lightshow of warp travel filed the main viewer when nav reported.

''Course plotted and laid in, Captain; ETA to the Wisconsin at warp 5 is two point ninety-two days.''

''Warp 1; all systems nominal. Implementing warp 2,'' announced the helm officer.

Bijou at the diplomatic chair turned to the Vulcan.

''Starbase Lotus confirms our authorization to enter the Azimuth Horizon area. But they can't confirm the presence of any other ship over there than the Wisconsin. They can't contact the Wisconsin either due to the anomaly's interference. You are allowed to investigate at your discretion.''

The Vulcan knew that this was a hidden message from Samji to be careful; whatever they had planned could be exposed at the first misstep. Starfleet was watching.

''Warp 2; all systems nominal. Implementing warp 3.''

Observing success thus far in transitioning incrementally from impulse to warp, the Vulcan captain re-engaged ship-wide communications.

“Crew of the Phoenix. We are currently enroute toward the region of space where the Azimuth Horizon anomaly emanated. Interference persists throughout the region preventing communications and accurate sensor readings. One ship, the USS Wisconsin, has been confirmed to be within that vicinity. We will be arriving in their proximity in 2.92 days. Meanwhile, we will utilize the time during this journey to execute comprehensive systems analysis. Every department must implement and conclude full diagnostic testing on all primary and secondary systems prior to our arrival. Coordinate your schedules with Operations Chief Garvex P’Trell to ensure that no conflicts occur throughout this process. In addition, review all protocols involving the dangers and precautions when exposed to the hazards that may occur near this volatile phenomenon.  Bring all data received and concerns that may arise to your department leads. They will in turn submit their report and conclusions directly to the Ops chief.”

The Vulcan shifted within the center seat briefly before continuing.

 “It will be your individual and collective due diligence throughout this Shakedown operation that will safeguard this ship against any number of potential catastrophes that could manifest, especially as we arrive to our initial destination. Captain out.”

Livingstone nodded his feathery head towards the Vulcan. His melodic voice stirred a bit.

''Captain; am I to prepare the science department for studies of the phenomenon?''

“Affirmative,” the captain replied. “It was a perilous ordeal we endured working collectively to contain that phenomenon. We garnered as many readings as we could manage while on the cusp of total annihilation in proximity to and in the midst of the anomaly. The findings of those efforts should be contained within that ships data banks. Even though the remnants of the tear in the fabric of space/time have been sutured, the risk of another breach is always possible. Therefore, your science team should be assiduous in continuing to scan the region for all sensor readings throughout this sector, noting any uncharacteristic readings that may occur.”

The X'Ell blinked in his telltale attitude of perplexity.

''Aye, Sir. But may I point out that the anomaly is already monitored and studied by the surveillance stations collaring it since Operation Horizon. Are we going to retrieve their latest databanks for study? Or is there something specific we should be investigating on our own?''

“Yes, to both Lieutenant Commander,” the captain verified. “We had momentary readings of another unidentified vessel in proximity to the Wisconsin. Scanning should continue for those signatures. We will also be in an area of space that has experienced disturbing transitions. A comparative analysis should be conducted utilizing data from the various sources and timeframes to determine if any additional fluctuations have occurred.”

Livingstone blinked again.

''Aye, Sir. ''

The avian officer returned his attention to his console. But his mind was still trying to process the unhurriedness of the captain. An unidentified, unauthorized vessel has been detected, and apparently on the trail of the Wisconsin. Starfleet general orders demanded immediate interception in such circumstances. Obviously, Jonathan lacked some additional data the captain seemed to have. Or was he passively waiting for a signal from the Wisconsin? From an area were transmissions were difficult at best?

Because of his nature, the X'Ell had been authorized to skip all Starfleet training regarding strategic and tactical situations and both security and military command protocols; besides search and rescue. He was not surprised with his lack of understanding of what was happening. Nevertheless, he was still baffled.

He looked at M'rrin M'ata manning the tactical station. The Caitian 's slitted eyes were riveted to her console, totally unblinking, her tail swishing incessantly behind her. 

Most... peculiar.

He worked to increase sensor resolution and range and filter the anomaly's interference. To test them, he started looking specifically for spacetime and subspace alterations as well as deuterium residue that could indicate a ship's presence.

There were four Lieutenant Junior Grade engineers on the Phoenix. And since only himself and Riambori were multi specialized, Leland Hudson was only slightly surprised to find himself acting chief engineer on the Phoenix when she launched. Not his choice, but his previous boss was nowhere to be found and, if what Leland had heard from the scuttlebutt on the starbase held even close to any accuracy that rumors held, the chief was AWOL. So when Captain Syntron ordered full diagnostics on all primary and secondary systems, Hudson promptly went to work.

Motioning to Riambori to take over the engineering station on the bridge, Leland made his way toward the turbolift, stopping briefly to inform the Vulcan manning the command chair of his intention.

"Sir. I'll be better equipped on deck 14 to run all the diagnostics. Riambori has the bridge station."

Veering his attention back toward the turbolift, the captain responded. “A logical decision Lieutenant Hudson. Proceed with your diagnostics.”

He turned toward the scarlet-haired young human manning the communications station.

“Any transmissions or other activity occurring in the vicinity of our distant coordinates Lieutenant Nyambi?”

''Comm traffic to and from the starbase, Sir; although quite heavy as Starfleet is mobilizing itself for a major...''

She cut herself off and for a moment frowned while her fingers raced on her board. Her voice became a bit strained.

''Sir? A signal, bearing 319 mark 10, very brief, very faint. It's from the other side of the anomaly, Sir, towards Romulan space. Very garbled but... definitely an emergency transmission, Captain.''

Livingstone was working on his sensors as she spoke. He did not raise his huge eyes from his readouts as he reported.

''Sensors do not detect anything on these coordinates, Captain.'' 

“Acknowledged,” the captain succinctly responded to the X’Ell. “Helm, implement those coordinates.”

Engaging communications to deck 14, he inquired, “Lieutenant Hudson, any indications of risk increasing our velocity to Warp 9?”

Leland, having just barely stepped into main engineering, made a quick assessment on the master systems display before responding to captain Syntron's query.

"No risk from this end captain. Main computer is online and warp 9 is available. I will however hold off on the secondary computer diagnostics while in transit, as the ship requires secondary backup under FLT maneuvers."

The Bolian helmsman lifted his bald, ridged blue head from his panel.

''Course plotted and laid in, Sir. At warp 9, ETA is twelve hours. And it will make us brush pretty close to the anomaly, captain.''

“Warp factor 9, helmsman,” Syntron commanded as soon as confirmation was received by Hudson.

Having answered Syntron, Hudson turned to his boards and began diagnostics on half of the lateral sensor arrays. As there were fifty arrays, twenty-five diagnostics, on every second array, would take about three-quarters of an hour. Just before engaging the diagnostic however, Leland remembered to inform operations chief P'Trell.

"Engineering to Ops. Chief? I am about to take half of the sensors off-line for diagnostics. Estimate forty minutes for completion. Confirm please!"

The Andorian Ops chief immediately reached to respond to the incoming request.

“One moment please,” he acknowledged as he put the response on hold and addressed the avian CSO.

“Lieutenant Commander Livingstone. Would you have any objections to having fifty percent of sensors off-line for approximately forty minutes? Engineer Hudson is requesting this to initiate a diagnostic process.”

The X'ell's crest rose for a fraction.

''Lieutenant P'Trell, it 's not for me to object but for the captain, knowing he would go with one eye closed for forty minutes. However, I have a solution. With your permission, Captain, I will deploy a set of probes around the ship, within the warp bubble. They will thus stay with us and provide full sensor capabilities via remote contact.''

On an otherwise stoic expression, a brow subtly raised.

“Intriguing recommendation, Lieutenant Commander. Class VIII or IX set of probes I would imagine for them to maintain a synchronous velocity with us at warp 9,” the captain speculated.

''Not at all, Sir. Any object within the warp bubble will stay with the ship, as it will be subjected to the exact same spacetime distortion. The probes will not even need to use their own propulsion once in position and until it will be time to retrieve them.''

“How long will this take to prepare then implement?” he queried to the X’Ell.

''As fast as the tubes can all launch them, Sir. A deployment of one of each type will cover all possible sensor work while our ship systems are down.''

“Proceed Lieutenant Commander,” the captain confirmed. “Once the probes are in position around the ship and activated, inform the Ops chief so that he can relay the message to Lieutenant Hudson in engineering.”

Hearing the results of their dialogue from the Ops station, Lieutenant P'Trell notified Hudson that he could begin preliminary preparations for the diagnosis now but to wait until notified before commencing. Meanwhile, the Andorian added the event into his log and schedule so that other departments could see it.

It didn't take long for the X'Ell, directly interconnected with the ship's systems through his cranial bio-implants, to implement his idea.

''Lieutenant M'ata, all probes are in launch tubes ready for automated deployement. Ready to launch at your command, Captain.''

“Commence launching all probes,” Syntron ordered as he gazed at a display imposed on the main viewscreen.

The computer display showed a replica of the long, sleek, barracuda-shaped avenger class vessel and a swarm of nine tiny stars emerging fore and aft. Eight englobed it's hull. One streaked out before it on it's flight path.Then they started flashing, each with a different designation, rythm and color. Livingstone spoke from his station, eyes glued to his own monitors.

''All probes signals nominal. Receiving all data at full. Putting ship's long range sensors offline.''

His head crest perked up, his luminous head implants flaring up.

''Sir; for an instant... an object at target coordinates; metallic alloy, trailing deuterium residue.''

Syntron paused briefly before responding.

“Likely the same phantom that registered previously. Given that its location is on par with our course, continue scanning that region as we journey.”

''Aye, Sir.''

The X'ell worked to filter out as best as possible the interference from the Azimuth Horizon.The captain then addressed the Ops officer.

“Lieutenant P'Trell, inform Lieutenant Hudson that he is clear to begin his initial diagnostic endeavor. Request that he inform you when the procedure has been completed in case the actual timeframe goes beyond the forty to forty-five minutes estimated duration.”

“Relaying that information now,” the Andorian Ops officer confirmed.

Counselor Bijou lifted her head from the display of her diplomatic chair.

''Captain; I'm receiving a distress call from within the anomaly. It's faint, garbled... but it carries the transponder signal of the USS Alsea.''

“Match our course to the coordinates from where that signal emanated,” the captained ordered before turning his attention to the science station.

“Have sensors been able to penetrate at all through the interference from the anomaly to obtain any readings?”

Livingstone's crest fluttered.

''Barely, Sir, as expected; and that with our enhanced sensors modified since the anomaly was discovered so that...''

The X'ell frowned over his console's readout.

''Sir? Scout probe detected  ''There is one, correction, two ships emerging at high impulse from the immediate area of the anomaly.''

M'ata at tactical confirmed, frowning as well.

''One Nebula class heavy cruiser; the Wisconsin, Sir, in hot pursuit; The other reads as... heavy siege destroyer ; USS... Achilles.''

The Caitian woman 'scruff bristled.

''Captain, that is not possible. There were barely half a dozen of those ships ever made. And this would be the actual prototype of the class, lost decades ago, from the time of the Dominion War!''

Livingstone lifted his head from his board to speak.

''The Azimuth Horizon is known to play havoc with spacetime. It would not be the first time it pulled something like a ship out of it's spatial and temporal frame of reference; even a dead one. I read no lifeforms aboard. Maybe the distance and the interference from the anomaly but... according to historical data, she was actually lost when her experimental AI went rogue.''

Bijou turned to Syntron.

''Captain, the Wisconsin is trying to raise a sector-wide alarm, calling for all ships to converge on their position. They say they are  detecting two unknown ships in their vicinity. I doubt anyone but us has received it because of the local interference; yet.''

"Orders, Sir?"

The helm's officer's confusion was understandable. On the screen, the tactical display showed the two ships angling towards the Klingon border; away from the other side of the anomaly were the distress signal came from.

“Hail the Wisconsin,” Syntron order then shifted his attention to the helmsman. “Reconfigure coordinates to pursue the Wisconsin. Increase velocity to Warp 9.9,” he added, as his keen eyes remained focused on the main viewscreen display.”

''Aye, Sir; ETA nine hours.''

Livingstone's crest rose again as he blinked sharply.

Ignoring a distress signal; the captain definitely knows something that we don't.

Bijou kept her eyes on her display as she addressed her commanding officer.

''I have the Wisconsin, Sir, audio only due to local interference. Captain Onia responding.''

Another voice, just as soft, musical and mesmerizing as that of the Deltan counselor, filled the bridge. But there was no mistaking the tension in it.

"Phoenix, this is Wisconsin. We are pursuing an unauthorized vessel, appearing to be the lost USS Achilles. One rogue AI, identified at being the replica of 20th century dictator Khan Noonien Singh, is reported being in control of that ship. Only two lifeforms are registering on our sensors, one Tellarite, one undetermined yet. Looks like decoys. But we also have detected the warp signature of the missing USS Alsea somewhere inside the anomaly. We need assistance."

A set of coordinates appeared on the tactical display, along with a visual cue matching it on the diagram.

But it did not match the coordinates of the distress signal.

Syntron mentally noted the discrepancy on the display but did not comment on it. He also surmised that the warp signature of the Alsea the Wisconsin detected was in all likelihood a red herring, but could not address the distraction or any other matter of importance from their current distance. There was too much at stake to risk divulging anything from afar on an open channel. Timing and proximity would be major factors in any move he would make.

“Captain Onia. Syntron here. We are en route toward your locale at maximum warp and should arrive in approximately nine hours. In what capacity would we provide the optimal support for your situation?”

There was a perceptible pause before the rich, soft voice of the Deltan woman came on again.

''Syntron? You... you've got your command back? Well... congratulations.''

There was another pause before her tone became more formal; colder even.

''The Achilles is making a break for the Klingon border. The McKenzie is still on patrol duty in the Treaty Zone. But we're too close to the anomaly 's interference. If you can, transmit our situation to Starbase Lotus. Then take care of the Alsea while we maintain pursuit of the Achilles.''

“Acknowledged, Captain Onia,” Syntron affirmed before gesturing to close the channel. He then gazed among the bridge crew for a moment before his eyes paused at the new avian CSO.

“Lieutenant Commander Livingstone, apprise me of your background and experience related to Starfleet command of a starship.”

The X'Ell blinked thencleared it's elongated, colored throat.

"Sir, my background about Federation starship command is almost entirely theoretical and only recently observational. My experience is nonexistent."

The Vulcan nodded slightly as the answer was provided.

“You are now in a position to begin filling-in missing elements of that aspect of being a bridge officer.”

The captain swiveled the center seat slightly toward the science station and lowered his voice.

“One of your first responsibilities when assuming any form of command is to ensure a safe and effective operation of your ship and crew. Acting as this ship’s Chief Science Officer, you are in an ideal position to work in conjunction with the other bridge officer’s around you to monitor the status of these conditions. If a situation arises, you will be expected to be an inventive and spontaneous tactician capable of resolving threats or nullifying hazardous conditions as reasonably and expeditiously as possible.”

The avian officer bobbed his head, human fashion.

''So I was taught at your Academy, Sir. That being said, I don't think that I have to remind you, Sir, that I am X'Ell.''

“I am Vulcan. Lieutenant P’Trell is Andorian. Lieutenant Bijou is Deltan…”

''With all due respect, Sir, I do not think you fully understand what being X'Ell means. Any of those people might be forced to commit violence, even against their will, their education or culture, or for the greater good, or as a last resort. But I am X'Ell. I am physically, psychologically, genetically incapable of doing so. Pacifism is not a choice for my species like it is for all others; it is part of the genetic make up of my species, and being so for millions of years. That is why I or any of my kind are unsuited for any starship command, or security duty, or even technical ones as benign as repairing a quantum torpedo. I can not commit violence even to save a life, even my own. Fact is, before Klingons and your starship Artemis came to our homeworld, my kind could not even conceive the very notion of violence.''

He straightened up and took a formal stance.

''In a situation of violence, I can raise shields, do evasive maneuvers and retreat or even go as far as raising a containment field and use anesthezine. But even a warning shot, using a phaser on stun or your impressive art of aikido would be taxing, difficult, possibly traumatizing. Nothing beyond that, Sir. Because I am X'Ell. Violence is not an alternative for me; it is an impossibility.''

The captain paused for a moment.

“The Federation is filled with representatives from different worlds. Your presence here is a reminder of your origin, Lieutenant Commander. Nevertheless, I am striving to differentiate between the theoretical or academic concepts you may have learned in the Academy, with what you may experience while on duty.”

"That is why I am here, Sir, part of the exchange program; to learn beyond the academic. But I am barely starting, Sir; merely a few years so far."

The captain stood up from center seat and repositioned himself besides the science console.

“As we discussed earlier in my ready room, you are prepared to deal with challenges that arise short of causing or committing violence yourself. Again, I too endeavor for similar alternatives. The time to consider alternatives in a variety of circumstances, however, is not merely in the midst of a crisis. It is at times like now. We are just under nine hours from our destination. Your responsibilities at this moment are not overwhelming. You have science team members available in which you can delegate tasks. How could you utilize this time productively in preparation for what may lie ahead of us?”

''I am using that time to learn all the details of the current situation, Sir; mainly, the current call for military posturing of the Federation. But of course I am at your disposal for any task you would see me fit to undertake.''

The captain nodded an acknowledgement, then folded his arms behind his back before continuing.

“I am cognizant of your stance, Lieutenant Commander. I did not intend to imply that you had any inclination toward a position of command. Contrarily, sometimes within the course of a given mission such a duty is thrust upon any member of Starfleet, due to unforeseen circumstances. In that situation, a person propelled into a role of leadership would be expected to operate in this capacity to the best of their ability. To represent the Federation’s interests by making decisions on its behalf. This includes knowing the founding principles of the Federation not only in words but in their meaning and intent. This is often more challenging and complex than expected, especially when interpretations or perspectives vary.”

The X'Ell nodded.

''A challenge indeed, Sir; one I am ill-suited to face. Scientific work do not entice any military options. Ensuring peace is the first duty of Starfleet; and Starfleet's exclusive mandate is to apply military options when it becomes a necessity to ensure that peace. But that is a step I can never, ever take. Starfleet recognizes this and wisely limit my involvement accordingly. So I can direct a research department, even command an expedition, but not a vessel.''

The captain recognized that he had other pressing issues to deal with in addition to conversing with the new acting CSO.

“Continue with your duties,” Syntron noted as he stepped away from the science console and next to the Ops post. The captain then addressed the Ops officer.

“Lieutenant Bijou, I will be in my ready room for approximately fifteen minutes. You have the conn.”

With a slight expression of astonishment, the Deltan transferred her controls to the center seat.

“Yes Sir,” she finally acknowledged as she stood up then headed toward the main chair. After a deep breath, she planted herself into the soft yet firm cushions that seemed to contour into her slender curvy frame.

She gazed around the bridge with an ever so slight smile emerging.

I could get used to this, she thought.

Syntron took the opportunity to enter his ready room. With voice command, he sealed the entrance.

He then sat down, engaged a private, encrypted channel then sent a signal directly to Captain Samji within the Lotus Starbase.

It took a moment long enough to tax even a Vulcan's patience before a signal came back. It was but the Starfleet logo and a computerized voice:

''Identify for retinal scan.''

Syntron adjusted his head accordingly to allow the emitting light to scan the retinas of his eyes.

Once he stated his name, rank and position for the accompanying voice regonition, the screen switched to what looked like the interior view of a shuttle pod. Lights that reflected on the bronzed face of the bearded fleet captain betrayed an outside vista of stars. 

''Yes Yeoman Nortnys, what is it? Still trying to acclimate yourself with your new starbase?''

Syntron's mind instantly understood why the Saurian-sounding name was his own in reverse; and for the odd ranking while looking at him straight in the eye. If that transmission was ever intercepted... or faked...

“Affirmative,” the Vulcan replied, striving to continue with the subterfuge. “Confirming arrival to post. Contact was established with supervisor. Request was made for assistance with imminent task.”

''Good, Yeoman. Carry on then. Unless there is something else that requires my attention? Using my free time to tour the exterior of my base, reminescing on my early career in a workbee is fun, but I might be recalled to duty at any moment.''

It didn't take a mindmeld to read his thoughts through his words; be brief and careful; I'm being watched.

The Vulcan’s façade remained stonelike as he responded.

“Proceeding as ordered. Should arrive at task in eight point four-seven minutes.”

Despite the condition that no official battle was occurring, they were implementing Regulation 46A: If transmissions were being monitored (during battle), no uncoded messages were to be transmitted on an open channel. This was a secure channel in a supposed non-hostile environment, yet they were taking no chances of any communications being intercepted and scrutinized by those causing destabilization within the Federation. The Fleet Captain would now have a coded timeframe to refer to as events began to unfold.

Samji's face was as expressionless as that of the Vulcan. Syntron was not calling him just for a time table update.

The remainder of their conversation continued in code, striving to share information without being decipherable to any potential eavesdroppers. At the conclusion, they signed off; each going about their business at hand.

Syntron departed from the Ready Room and dismissed the Deltan officer back to her post as he reestablished himself on the center seat.

“Any changes in status?” he inquired to the bridge officers within earshot.

M'ata first answered from her tactical station, showing her data on the main viewer as she spoke.

''Achilles is veering off and accelerating towards the second distress signal. Wisconsin is in pursuit but falling behind. She sent warning shots but Achilles is ignoring them.''

Barely back at her diplomatic chair, Bijou answered next.

''Sir, Captain Onia is asking us to take care of the Alsea as they keep chasing Achilles; and asking us to warn Lotus Feet Command of those intrusions.''

Livingstone turned from his console.

''Sir, according to comparative shipspecs, the Achilles is too fast and nimble at impulse for the Wisconsin. And with the anomaly so close, the highest probabilities are that they will lose them; unless they force them to a halt. Those same specs shows even a warship-configured Nebula class starship has little chance if any against a heavy siege destroyer. ''

Bijou confirmed, reading another transmission.

''Wisconsin is sending a signal to Achilles; most assuredly a final warning to stand down... or be fired upon.''

The Vulcan processed the updates as they were reported. He had only a tinge of doubt that Rogers and the Achilles, though undermanned, could not outmaneuver the pursuing Wisconsin. He turned his attention toward the main display.

“Helm, adjust coordinates to intercept the Alsea as requested.”

Syntron shifted to address the Ops officer.

“Lieutenant Bijou, confirm with Captain Onia that we will be in pursuit of the Alsea upon arrival into their vicinity. In addition, reassure her that Starfleet has been informed of these events.

The Deltan woman complied but frowned afterwards.

''I can not confirm if Wisconsin received our transmission, Sir. She's too close to the anomaly's edge. I only get static now.''

M'ata chimed in.

''She's pursuing Achilles and Achilles is trying to lose her within the anomaly. She should catch her presently. Without a Sangliar impulse drive, a Syntron Space Sonar and metaphasic shielding, this old warship will not be able to navigate in it.''

Of course the Caitian woman could not know that the very Starfleet engineer who's name had been given to the propulsion system was aboard the long lost heavy siege destroyer; and was quite cognizant in both the LaForge 1 Program of metaphasic shielding and the tachyon pulse modifications to the navigation emitter conceived by her commanding officer.

And neither would the Wisconsin.

The captain acknowledged their responses with a slight nod of his head. He knew the time would come when he would likely reveal more information about their current circumstances than they presently knew, but that would be timed precisely and presented with concise surgical precision.  Meanwhile, there were still issues to deal with on their vessel.

“During the interim of our journey, continue to run primary, secondary, and tertiary departmental systems through their paces. If there are any remnant issues lurking within these operating systems, they need to be revealed and resolved while we are in a non-emergency condition. In addition, all department heads or their representatives need to continue finalizing their inspection checklists beyond the software applications. Have them present any significant concerns directly so they can be evaluated and prioritized,” Syntron decreed as gazed briefly at each of the bridge officers.

Livingstone turned his bird-like head to Syntron.

''I will use the current... circumstances to fully test our data gathering and analyzing systems, Sir. We shall be at full optimal condition by the time we reach the vicinity of the anomaly.''

Other department heads confirmed the same status and all went to work diligently if not eagerly, as there was still more than afew mysteries out there; well beyond the norm. The X'Ell was certainly feeling excited about it.

A ghost ship from the past; a rogue ship from the present; a strange distress signal; and the captain back to routine procedures after a sudden solitary ready room session. Is all this related to those rumors of war all the others are talking about?

The Avian officer was baffled. Like everyone of his species, he could not even conceive of what war was; except from the small taste they experienced a few years ago when the Klingons invaded their Dyson Shell and the Federation came to save them from their insane violence. Imagining that on a galctic scale was beyond his comprehension.

I do hope the captain knows what he's doing; because I sure wouldn't.

"Engineering to Lieutenant P'Trell. The sensor diagnostics are complete. I am returning them to main control now."

Hudson completed the circuit, and the entire suite of the Phoenix's sensor pallet came back online. Once completed Leland pushed himself away from the panel to the right of the master systems display and, with a studied glance at the pool table to his left, turned and left main engineering. A brisk walk led him to the turbo lift and he called out his destination as the doors swooshed shut behind him; "Bridge!"

Hudson thought about what he had found, and its somewhat clandestine appearance, as the turbo lift slipped to a halt and the doors swished open to reveal the bridge. Making for the center command chair Leland held up a hand to signal Riambori at the engineering station to remain there for a bit longer. Moving down to Syntron, Leland stopped a foot to his right and, engaging the PADD in his hand, handed it to the captain with a nonchalant verbal challenge.

"Report on the sensor diagnostic Captain."

The report would show glitch he had found while the sensors were offline. One that would not have been found in a normal diagnostic, because this was done one at a time on every second sensor. A normal diagnostic would be done on the entire suite, preferably in a star base or dry dock. But this examination had turned up a hidden command override within the Space sonar, part of the sensors that this very Vulcan had designed. And it was a command that could shut down the entire sensor suite of the Phoenix, leaving her blind to everything.

Needless to say, Leland had cautiously removed the override command before restoring the sensors to the bridge moments ago. As the Captain read the report Leland leaned forward a couple inches closer to Syntron and whispered a short question to his captain.

"I don't understand it sir. Who would attempt such a dangerous idea?"

“Someone intent on inhibiting our ability to detect whatever exists or is hidden out there,” the captain responded in a hushed tone. “Exceptional work discovering then remedying their sabotage.”

A rare moment indeed when a Vulcan compliments a crewman basically doing their job.

He then leaned closer to the engineer. “Continue with a full diagnosis of other related systems that could limit our vision or inhibit our mobility. Whoever committed this act of sabotage may have not limited their infiltration to only our sensors.  It is a clear indication that there was awareness that the Phoenix may be pivotal in this mission and someone was determined to limit our effectiveness; all the more reason to ensure that we arrive with all systems fully optimized and no systems compromised.”

 "Aye Captain!", Leland responded and then, retrieving his PADD from Syntron, he turned and casually walked across to Riambori at the bridge engineering station. At least he tried to appear casual, but his thoughts were racing at the Vulcan's statement.

Stopping beside the Lieutenant, Hudson leaned on the console to be a little closer to the engineer and, with a lowered voice, gave some orders.

"Riambori, I need you to run full diagnostics on impulse drives and maneuvering thrusters. I'm going back down to main and starting other diagnostics on some... other systems. Report your findings directly to me and no one else, Understand?"

The lizard-like face of the Lieutenant looked up from his panel with a curious look to his scaly countenance but, without a word, merely nodded an affirmative and turned back to the station to begin diagnostics.

Leland nodded his acceptance to the Lieutenant and stood up straight, turned, and proceeded back to the port lift nearby. In moments Hudson was back in main engineering and he began running the ordered tests, starting with the main deflector array along with its generators in the bay on deck 24.

Once that started Leland left engineering and left level 14 to arrive at deck 3, where he started diagnostics on the shield emitters and amplifiers.

On the bridge, M'ata reported from her tactical station.

“Captain; detecting phaser fire from the inner edge of the anomaly, where Wisconsin is pursuing Achilles. Lost them both within the anomaly but several probe signals are now registering... correction, gone now... a few are coming back again... Sir, they are fighting in there.”

Bijou followed right after the Caitian woman.

“Sir, now only receiving the Alsea's disaster beacon. The second distress signal has gone silent.”

“Maintain heading,” the Vulcan commanded calmly as he turned slightly toward the display on the main viewscreen.

“Estimated time until arrival near the signal,” he queried.

''Four hours forty-two minutes, present speed,'' came the answer from the helm.

Livingstone turned towards the center chair.

''Captain; there might be a way to reach those coordinates in a tenth of that time.''

A visual display of his explanation was shown on the main viewer as the X'Ell spoke.

''By using the Syntron system of our deflector dish in a fast, continuous emission instead of it's usual ping, we can create a tachyon tunnel between us and the anomaly. That tunnel would be way too small for the ship to go through of course, being at the subatomic level; but it would carry the effects of the anomaly itself back to us. Having no gravitational nor electromagnetic properties, the anomaly's properties would be sucked into the beam. With proper calculations, we could cut it off as it's spacetime distortion would start affecting us, effectively sending us forward in spacetime right into it. For all intent and purposes, it's like creating a quantum slipstream tunnel, but using the singularity instead of a  starship drive. I would not recommend this with a black hole. But with this gaseous-like anomaly...''

After a moment of jaw-dropping blinking, M'ata nodded from tactical.

''Like all Lotus Fleet ships currently in service, the Phoenix is equiped with not only the Syntron navigational system but with the Sangliar drive and the metaphasic shields allowing us safe travel through the Azimuth Horizon. Damage to the main deflector would be minor. And inside the anomaly, there are no particles to deflect anyway. But this to work, calculations must be faultless.''

''They are,'' assured the X'Ell.

Swiftly, the Vulcan mentally ran through the proposed concept, weighing all the risk factors into the equation. Moments later, he directly addressed the X’Ell.

“Preparations for the tachyon tunnel may commence after the calculations are run through several simulations. We will need to anticipate any potential consequence that could occur and have a series of contingency plans in place to immediately implement as countermeasures should something go awry.”

His eyes shifted to each bridge crew member that would be involved in the unorthodox experiment.

“Time is of the essence, but so is the safety of this crew and the integrity of this ship. You will all need to coordinate your stations and departments for this tunnel to be safely and effectively implemented. We know the dangers inherent within this anomaly. The metaphasic shields will serve as a shield to a degree but may not compensate for any careless errors. As Lieutenant M'ata noted, the calculations must be faultless, as must the timing and implementation of every aspect of this endeavor.”

The eyes of the captain then transferred back to the X’Ell science officer.

“Proceed, Lieutenant Commander.”

''Aye, captain. It will take fifty-three minutes to complete all simulations of possible outcomes of this endeavor. Chances of success are at forty-seven percent but growing as we move closer to the anomaly. Most probable consequence is that it doesn't work and we burn our main deflector dish, impeding any further travel faster than with thrusters.''

His headdress flickered with additional lights as he turned towards his computer panel, which started also flickering in synch. He spoke as if through his combadge.

''This is Lieutenant Commander Livingstone, Chief of Science. I will require use of a holodeck and a direct link to astrogation with priority access to both. Please implement now.''

Time went by in slow, agonizing tension as the Phoenix moved at top speed towards a distant orange point growing ever larger. Finally, the chirping, musical voice of the X'ell addressed the command dias.

''Calculations, tests and simulations completed, Captain. Full report is transfered to your yeoman's PADD. Short answer; at this moment, we have fifty-three percent chances of successfully implementing a tachyon jump, with a forty-seven chance of burning the main deflector dish, down to five percent if we put maximum power into shields; but then with a fifty-seven percent chance of disabling thirty-four percent of our shield output and the entire metaphasic program. But if we move out at full impulse out of the anomaly, we should then sustain only five point three percent damage to our systems and minimal inconvenience for the crew; Andorians being the most susceptible to minor brain injury.''

He glanced at Kalynda Hunter.

"I sent the same report to Sickbay and Doctor Gray's program."

“Oh… wonderful,” Kalynda mumbled thinking of the extra risk to her, Garvex P'Trell and the other Andorians aboard the vessel. She transmitted her own signal to the testy holographic doctor, with a file summarizing the proposal and the possible effects anticipated with the impending experimental maneuver being prepared. Hopefully, he may have an idea how to improve their odds and nullify, at least to some degree, the risks involved to them.

“Captain,” I informed Dr. Gray of this situation as well,” she noted as the transmission was sent.

The Vulcan acknowledged both declarations but brought his attention first to the engineering station.

“Inform Lieutenant Hudson that he will need to fabricate a backup for our deflector system, in case damage occurs, plus he’ll need to work with his team to devise additional protections to our metaphasic shielding.  We will need these ready as soon as possible.”

He turned address the CSO.

“As soon as the doctor has a plan to protect our Andorian crew members to a greater capacity, begin to initiate the tachyon jump. Follow the sequence of procedures which minimize risks to both ship and crew.”

''Aye, Sir,'' the X'ell answered.

The commlink chirped.

"Bridge this is Doctor Gray in sickbay." The annoyance on his voice was more pronounced than usual. "What are the odds I survive this? The first thing fried during these kinds of bursts are the memory core and data banks where holo data is stored."

There was a brief pause and the doctor continued.

"Other than that, sickbay will be ready should anyone need aid."

Livingstone answered first.

''There is no direct link between either shield program from the engineering computer nor with the deflector dish system with holographic programs and systems. You will be as safe as the rest of us, Doctor.''

Syntron then spoke to the holographic doctor.

“What can be done to further protect the Andorians aboard this ship? I have two of them on the bridge now and their roles are essential for our mission.”

From their respective stations, both Kalynda and Garvex nodded in total agreement.

"The best thing would be a neurological suppressant and then a localized ion shield."

There was a brief pause before the doctor finished.

"I can get the suppressant ready. It should slow the parts of their brains which would go haywire here without inhibiting functions. As for the localized shield, I am a doctor not an engineer."

“Acknowledged Doctor,” the captain replied, ignoring the quip attached to the end of his solution but not the recommendation of localized ion shields for his Andorian crewmembers. He then engaged ship-wide communications.

“All hands, prepare for an experimental leap toward the rim of the anomaly. Once initiated, immediately report any irregularities directly to your department heads. Those with Andorian ancestry report to Doctor Gray immediately for a neurological suppressant.”

With the shipwide holoenet, it took almost no time for the holographic doctor to appear everywhere an Andorian aboared signaled to Sickbay; incl;uding on the bridge right beside Kalynda Hunter. Following the entire proceeding through his link with the ship's computer  and internal systems, Livingstone knew when everyone was as ready as could ever be and reported so to Syntron.

''All is ready, Captain. Awaiting your order to execute the tachyon emission.''

Syntron espied the crew virtually holding their breath waiting for the order to be given. He took a subtle deep breath as he leaned with his spine pressed firmly against the back of the center seat.

“Proceed, lieutenant commander,” the captain directed as his eyes shifted from the X’Ell CSO to computerized projections glowing from the main viewscreen. It would convey an accurate assessment of their status in conjunction with required department reports that would be sent to the bridge.

He turned slightly toward the Deltan counselor.

“Be prepared for any emergency that may arise with any of our crew members, including the Andorians,” he noted.

“I will continue to monitor all departments, Sir.”

The nod from the Vulcan captain was all Jonathan needed.

''Implementing tachyon funnel in five... four... three.. two... one... mark!''

On the main screen, the far away golden-orange dot marking the position of the Azimuth Horizon barely flickered. The ping of the tachyon emitter, so eerily reminescent of Earth's old submarine sonar despite not being sound at all, nevertheless reverberated throughout the speakers. Then suddenly, the entire image became a haze of gold and tangerine.

The musical voice of the X'Ell broke the stillness and the silence even the consoles seemed to be spelled with for a moment.

''Confirming arrival at coreward edge of the Azimuth Horizon."

''All decks report no casualties or discomfort among the crew, Sir,'' then added Bijou from her medical command chair.

M'ata at tactical followed but with concern in her purring voice.

''We've lost contact with both Wisconsin and Achilles, Captain. There is also nothing from the second distress signal. But the Alsea's is still registering, albeit distorted by the anomaly.''

Syntron nodded a subtle acknowledgement to each bridge officer as they reported.

“Follow the signal toward the Alsea,” the captain ordered helm before shifting his attention again. Try to establish some form of communication with the vessel, even if we have to transmit a signal from the deflector dish directly toward their last confirmed location.”

The Counselor manning the comm system through her medical and diplomatic command chair at his left sighed.

''Hailing on all frequencies, Sir; so far no response. Only the disaster beacon.''

From helm came another decision for the commanding officer to make.

''Sir, the most direct route is right inside the anomaly, ETA around four point seven minutes at full impulse since using warp in there is too dangerous. We could circumvent the area to get as close as possible. That would take us five point three minutes to get there at maximum warp then about a minute inside at impulse.''

Suddenly, the Deltan counselor looked sharply at her armchair console.

''Sir? The signal... it's changing position very fast, like at emergency impulse; as if on an intercepting course towards the last detected position of the Wisconsin and the Achilles.''

M'ata growled from her station.

''Alsea is pouncing!''

Maintaining a composed posture in the center seat, the captain first responded to the helmsman.

“Prepare to take us into the anomaly, full impulse.”

Syntron knew that Captain Kheren was elsewhere with the Alsea and its crew of cadets. He hypothesized that Commander Rogers was adeptly leading the pursuing ship off his trail and that the Wisconsin was in no imminent danger. But the time to divulge the details of that information had not yet arrived.

Syntron addressed the Caitian crewman whose fur was literally standing on end.

“Lieutenant M’ata, readings are not always what they appear to be, especially within the turmoil of that anomaly when we are on the outside looking in.”

He then engaged ship-wide communication.

“This is the captain. We are about to enter the anomaly. All shifts will be active during our time present within the anomaly. All departments immediately report any noticeable or significant events that may occur upon entering. Captain out.”

He turned to the Deltan counselor. “Maintain hailing on all frequencies. We may be able to break through the static once we are inside.”

The captain addressed the CSO.

“Lieutenant commander, continue scanning. Perhaps you will be able to pinpoint one of these vessels once we cross the threshold into the Azimuth anomaly.”

''Aye, Sir. Returning Syntron system to normal parameters. ''

The bridge crew had everything prepared and were patiently waiting for the word to be given.

“Engage,” he ordered.

''Aye, Sir full impulse,'' confirmed helm, just as the swirling gases of the anomaly engulfed them at one-hundred and fifty thousand kilometers per second.