The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 293
The Slymak threat is finally over and most Starfleet crews can relax again. In the Messier Galaxy 2, 99 and 66, all starships have been called back. The Federation has decided it is more important to explore the home galaxy and not a far far away galaxy. the starbases are disassembled. One by one the starships return through the huge gateway at the Deep Space 2 space station. All materials, all artefacts, all collected data and new encountered species with FTL capabilities are notified. Admiral Arthur back aboard Deep Space 2 has made a decision.

"There is no other way than to destroy all our gateways. All of our ships have a transwarp drive now and gateways are not that important any more. A team will destroy the local gateways and will return through one of the regular gates on one of the local planets. After everyone has returned we will destroy our gate here. We don't leave anything behind. Those are the orders. Execute."

It is the USS Vertigo which has travelled the most in Messier galaxy 2. While all other ships have already returned and all starbases, outposts and relay stations have been disassembled and brought back to the home galaxy, the USS Vertigo under command of Commodore Jeffrey Slater, still needs a full day of transwarp drive to get to the gateway. A team is already waiting a full day to destroy this gateway. The gateways in Messier Galaxy 66 and 99 have already been destroyed and those teams have already returned through one of the gates on a planet. The USS Vertigo is a bit delayed because the crew has found a ship called the Gdonsk. A alien ship with a subspace drive. A team of the USS Vertigo is bringing back the Gdonsk as well. The owners of the Gdonsk were not found. The entire case of the Gdonsk will remain a mystery. Commander Matz is in command of the Gdonsk.

A full day later the USS Vertigo and the Gdonsk travel home through the gate. The gate itself is destroyed by sending it into the nearby star. It is Gate Team One that flies in a runabout through the gate of a planet identified a M2-UND. A moment later the Runabout comes out of the gate at Deep Space 2 Gate Command. That gate is secured as always. The question remains not if the gate network will still be used in the home galaxy as the new transwarp drive on the starships is much more useful.

Apparently Admiral Arthur thinks a transwarp drive is safer and easier to use. Additional structures, like gates are not necessary any more. So the Gateway at Deep Space 2 is towed towards the Deep Space 2 star where it is destroyed, while on Deep Space 2 the crew cheers. A new era begins, the era of exploration.

The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 294
The latest news that the alien ship Gdonsk has become USS Gdonsk under command of Captain Matz, is only read by few. The USS Gdonsk will escort the USS Vertigo under command of Commodore Jeffrey Slater. Their exploration will begin at the border of Federation space.

At the other side of Federation space on space station Deep Space 2Admiral Arthur welcomes the recently promoted General Bier. Bier was the one who warned for the Slymak.

"Admiral, it is so good to see you."

"Congratulations. You are a General now. Well deserved. You participated in the rescue of this galaxy."

"Thank you Admiral. I must say I did not do much. Anyway, I come to ask whether you are interested to visit our home planet. This is an official invitation."

"Of course I accept. I am honored."

Only an hour later General Bier and Admiral Arthur are standing on the bridge of Bier's ship. Bier gives the order to set course to the planet Orange, his home planet.

The Federation has come to peace and the first ships are already sent out to explore regions outside Federation space. Among those ships is the USS Strike, Commander Nadine in command. The USS Strike departs from Deep Space 2 on a deep space mission in the Beta Quadrant. The region has been scouted by probes and looks prolissing to find new species, but also more than a few natural phenomena.

The USS Strike is a fast scoutship, capable of defending itself, but with a small crew. Commander Nadine gives her orders from the small bridge.

"Helm, set course to sector 56598, engage transwarp drive. Let's get out there."

"Course set, engaging transwarp drive. We are on our way. ETA two days."

"Excellent Lieutenant. Number One, you have the bridge. I will be in my office."

"Aye Commander. XO Lieutenant Commander Erica has the bridge."

The USS strike speeds up to her destination while the engineers monitor the newly installed transwarp drive. Chief Engineer Lieutenant Herebo has not left hie engine room for thirteen hours.

"Still within acceptable parameters Lieutenant. Everything is running smoothly."

"Let's keep it like that Ensign. I am going to get some sleep now. You are in charge here."

"Aye sir. I will only wake you if absolutely necessary."

You'd better."

While Chief Engineer Herebo is on his way to his quarters, he passes sickbay where Chief Medical Officer Doctor Zodra is already starting his second shift. It is rather busy in sickbay. Half of the crew is new aboard and all the medical examinations have to be reviewed. The only visit this day is Chief Opal who had a cut in his arm. Ten minutes later Opal already returned to his duties. Doctor Zodra realises that sick bay has to stay ready. During exploration of a new region very different kind of dangers could just pop up.


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 295
Beta Quadrant: sector 56598. It has been some time that some Federation deep space probes have scouted the region. This particular sector has been defined as very interesting because there are more star systems in this sector than in any other sector in the known galaxy. The only thing that bothers Commander Nadine in command of the USS Strike, is that these probes have stopped sending data. And most of them suddenly without detecting something other than usual.

Beta Quadrant: sector 56598. It is not even close to the border of the galaxy, but still far enough for Federation ships to go to. Now with the new transwarp drives the Federation can send out ships to explore remote regions more easy.

"The galaxy has become much smaller", someone said in the Federation council. It was Vulcan ambassador P'Na, who is famous for her logic and calculated reasoning. So it was a bit unexpected to hear this, especially from her.

Beta Quadrant: sector 56598. The USS Strike will arrive at the first system on a long list. Commander Matz is sitting in her center seat.

"Reduce speed. Start scanning, right and left angle."

"Scanning has started Commander."

Everyone is silent and waiting for the first results. In main engineering everyone is happy. They made this trip to sector 56598 almost luxurious. Chief Engineer Lieutenant Herebo has a smile on his face.

"Commander Nadine, We had a smooth ride for the entire two days. We have had no problems with the transwarp drive. We have relayed power to the sensors so we can boost them if necessary with the scans. We also have added two sensor arrays on two shuttlecraft which are available for closer scans or planetary scans while we move through this system."

"Excellent work Lieutenant."

The long range sensors have done their work. This system needs to be scanned from a closer distance. While the USS Strike enters the system more data from the short range sensors are coming in. This system has three planets. One of them is completely frozen. There are no traces of a civilization. The second planet only has very primitive life forms like moss. There is no water like a lake or even a pond. There is not enough oxygen for humanoid life. The third planet closest to the star is to hot to contain life. The Commander realises this is interesting but not the highest price in this sector.

"All right. This is it. We will move to the next system. Helm set course to the second system on our list."

"Course is set Commander."

"XO, are we ready?"

"All decks report ready Commander."

"All right helm, let's go."

The USS Strike leaves the system. A moment later the ship travels at a speed faster than light to the next system in Sector 56598.

The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 296
Beta Quadrant: sector 56598. The USS Strike is moving towards the next system. It is a pulsar system without no planets. Scientists aboard the USS Strike for a week to observe this pulsar system.

"XO, we will follow up this research closely. I am very curious whether we will find anomalies."

"Yes Commander. This seems very interesting. Personally I am very interested in the radio waves the pulsar emits. As I understand it, this pulsar is a rotation-powered pulsar. So there should be some really good readings."

"XO, I didn't know you had so much interest in pulsars."

"Oh yes mam. When I was a child I imagined there was a little man inside the pulsar that made it spin, turning a wheel or something."

First Officer Lieutenant Commander Erica smiles. Apparently this pulsar brings back pleasant memories. Commander Nadine smiles as well.

"You are at the right place XO. Enjoy yourself."

"I certainly will mam."

The First Officer stands up and walks towards the turbolift. On Deck 6 she gets out and walks towards the astrometrics lab, where four scientists are having the time of their life. Two of them are astrophysicists and clearly in charge. They all greet the XO when she comes in, but very breefly. One of the astrophysicists has a short report.

"We are up and running. Data is coming in. We have not yet come to any conclusions. You can follow the stream on that console. If you see anything out of the ordinary, please let us know."

"I certainly will."

First Officer Erica walks to the console, takes her padd and starts her analysis. Astrometrics has always been her favourite, even at the academy she had the highest score of her class. But she had never told anyone. Maybe she gave Commander Nadine a hint twenty minutes ago.

On the bridge of the USS Strike Operations officer Ensign Gyter asks whether he is allowed to transfer impulse power to the sensors for astrometrics on their request to boost up the sensors.

Commander Nadine looks at the small console on her seat.

"All right Ensign you have my permission."

The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 297
Operations officer Ensign Gyter looks at his console. He has been assigned to the bridge by Chief of Operations Lieutenant Merhold. Aparently Merhold thinks high of Gyter. Or Gyter needs more practice. Gyter doesn't know and keeps his thoughts to himself. He has just rerouted power from the impulse engines to the sensors, so the scientists aboard can study the biggest pulsar in sector 56598 more closely.

The ship has not moved since its arrival in this system. As no planets were detected, studying the pulsar was more easy. Almost all crewmembers were fascinated by the pulsar. Some had been looking through a window to see it. Some of them were standing at the same window for an hour. It was a rare occasion a Starship could come so close and study a pulsar for a longer time.

At 14.00 the shift change made Chief of Operations and Second Officer Lieutenant Merhold himself relieved Ensign Gyter at the operations station.

"Good afternoon Lieutenant. There is not much to tell except that I have rerouted power from the impulse engines to the sensors for a better look at the pulsar. I asked the Commander first. One more thing sir. The rotators of panel 25 are back in line within operational parameters. That is it sir."

"Excellent Ensign. I relieve you."

"Thank you sir. I stand relieved."

Ensign Gyter leaves the bridge but does not notice Commander Nadine has stand up from the center seat and walks to the operations station where Lieutenant Merhold checks the console. He turns as the Commander comes closer.

"It seems to me Ensign Gyter knows his job."

"He does indeed Commander. He even helps out in engineering from time to time. He says he wants to learn."

"That is good. He seems very curious. I like that."

"Indeed. He was one of the first standing at a window looking at the pulsar after his shift yesterday. He didn't even notice me when I passed by."

Commander Nadine smiles. Once upon a time she was a young officer. She was also eager like Ensign Gyter. She had never lost that feeling.

"The XO is in astrometrics. I am going there as well. You have the bridge Lieutenant."

Aye Commander, I have the bridge."

It was time for the Commander to have a look at the first data of the pusar. The turbolift that brought her to deck six was empty. Just at the moment she stepped into the astrometrics lab, she heard cheers. Some officers were shouting.

"Did you see it? Did you see it? That was incredible!"

"Yeah and just when we thought it couldn't get better."

"And we just got here."

"I knew this was going to be a big hit."

XO Erica steps up to Nadine and gives her a short explanation.

"Commander you are just in time. Look. Here. Do you see that peak. It is not part of the pulsar."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 298
The Commanding Officer of the USS Strike, Commander Nadine is watching the results of the sensor logs describing a signal not coming from the pulsar. Next to her is her First Officer Lieutenant Commander Erica.

"And what do you think Commander?"

"This signal does not have a natural cause Number One."

Commander Nadine did not often addres her First Officer as Number One, only in very important cases. The First Officer knew this was a serious comment.

It was silent for a moment. Everyone was looking at the Commander, waiting if she had something more to add. But there was not. Everything had been said. A young Ensign was the first to speak.

"I have analysed the signal sir. It seems to be a data stream of some kind. It is as if someone tries to communicate. It is unclear where the signal is coming from. Oh wait. There it is again. It is exactly the same data stream sir."

"Try to find the origin of the signal Ensign. At least some direction. And find a way to send a signal as well."

"Already on it sir."

The First Officer points to two other officers.

"You and you. Help him. I will assist you as well."

And suddenly the astrometrics lab is no longer an observation lounge, but an extremely busy hub of searching scientists.

It doesn't take long before the entire crew knows that a signal has been detected coming from the pulsar or through the pulsar, but most importantly it is made by an intelligent life form. More off duty crewmembers gather at the windows of the ship to have a look at the pulsar. Everyone wants to be the first to see something if suddenly an unknown species appears.

Commander Nadine turns to her XO.

"This is why we are out here XO. This is what it is all about."

"Absolutely Commander. Maybe this will even result in a first contact. That would really be awsome."

But the Commander is more realistic.

"We hope for the best. Let's wait for the decoding of the signal. We need to know more. I will send a report to Deep Space 2. I promised to keep them posted."

Just before the Commander leaves to return to the bridge an update is given.

"Commander! We have decoded the signal, not completely, but it is understandable now. I will put it on the viewer here."

The ensign points at a larger viewer. Everyone gathers around the viewer. Some kind of message appears.

TY-OK-3 Trying to contact anyone who can answer. We know someone has to be out there. Please repond to this message. This message is sent by TY-OK-3.

Then the message repeats itself.

"Although we can now answer the message I advice caution Commander. This could be anything. There is of course the prime directive, it could be a trap, or even a new valuable member to the Federation as a result."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 299
The pulsar does not seem to be different, but the message from a certain TY-OK-3 makes this research totally different. Commander Nadine first contacts Deep Space 2 for further orders.

"Commander Nadine, Good to hear from you. I will switch this channel to the Admiral's office. He is in a meeting, but he gave me orders to put you through as soon as you made contact. Please stand-by."

A moment later Admiral Arthur appears on the main viewer on the bridge of the US Strike. The Admiral looks around and addresses Commander Nadine.

"Commander, go ahead."

"Admiral, We have received a message, but we are not sure how to proceed. We can just answer, but we can also travel to the source of the message."

"Commander, we are explorers. We search for new species and new civilizations. Sometimes we have to take a chance. Still you have to be cautious. Be ready for anything. The message you received could be centuries old and still be transmitted as a result of the pulsar. Maybe the species who sent the message are no longer there or have evolved to a very advanced species. You will only discover it if you are going to have a look. So Commander, go for it. If you find the source send a shuttlecraft with a cloak and have a look. keep me posted."

Thank you admiral. We will keep you posted."

Aboard the US Strike the channel with Deep Space 2 is closed. A shuttlecraft with a cloak is sent to the source of the transmission of TY-OK-3. While the USS Strike stays close to the pulsar the shuttlecraft cloaks and starts the tho weeks trip. Aboard the shuttlecraft are only two officers. Operations Officer Ensign Gyter and Security Chief Lieutenant Lena. The two officers will have a heavy duty schedule. They will not be bored.

Aboard Space Station Deep Space 2 a new ship is being built. The ship has all state of art technology, also some things received from the Trsterts. This week the first tests of the hull integrity will be conducted. After that propulsion, offensive and defensive systems. There is still a lot of work. But there is no hurry. This new ship will not be a rush job. It will be the first ship that should be able to travel between galaxies in five or six months.

All the engineers working on the project have developed this new ship from scratch. New technological breakthroughs have already been improved.

The weeks pass and the ship now has the shape of a real starship. Except for personnel facilities, sickbay, holodecks and other non essential installations the ship is ready to fly. A day before the ship will leave Deep Space 2 spacedock a message from the USS Strike comes in.

"Deep space 2, this is Commander Nadine. Our shuttlecraft has reached the source of the communication from TY-OK-3. The radiotransmitter is located on a planet called Yio. Population is about 300 million, beginning with space travel, but no faster than light speed yet. In this case the prime directive applies and we will leave this society alone. Maybe in a hundred years they can be interesting for the Federation. I have recalled our shuttlecraft."

"Acknowledged USS Strike. We are looking forward to get more information about the pulsar."

"We will keep you informed. USS Strike out."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 300
After two weeks the Shuttlecraft with Operations Officer Ensign Gyter and Security Chief Lieutenant Lena has returned to the USS Strike, still in a close position to the pulsar. Lieutenant Lena can only report old news.

"Commander Nadine, I have nothing more for you than what I have reported before. Yio is a nice planet and the people seem to be friendly. But they are only in the phase of the discovery of space and their star system. I guess we will not always be lucky to discover advanced species to join us."

Commander Nadine can only confirm.

"You are right Lieutenant. But that is why we explore space. And we should never give up. One day it could be our lucky day. Patience Lieutenant. The Federation wasn't built in one day."

"I know Commander. And I am very sure we will find more than we ever expected. Oh, before I forget. The shuttlecraft new sensor array did a very good job. We tested it for almost a month and it is very accurate. I have already talked to our Chief Engineer Herebo about it."

"He will be very pleased. Most of this new sensor array is his design. It is much smaller and more effective. I like it. That is all Lena. Take a good rest and than back to regular duties."

Commander waves Lieutenant Lena away. Lena turns around and leaves the ready-room. She still has a few hours to relax before her shift starts. But as the USS Strike Tactical and Security Chief Lieutenant Lena is a workaholic that will not be an easy task. So a few minutes later she sits in her quarters sipping coffee, but in the other hand a padd which displays the current security duty roster. There is no unusual change needed. Lena puts the padd on her table. She jumps up, walks out of her quarters straight to the armory. She opens the door to the shooting range, grabs a phaser rifle and starts level 21.

Far away from the USS Strike, aboard the huge space station Deep Space 2 Admiral Arthur looks out of a window. He wanted to see the launch of their newest ship with his own eyes. The name of the newest ship has already changed twenty times. There is no official name for the ship yet. But all crewmembers can vote on a name. The list is already long and no name has a lot of crewmembers suporting it. Still the works on the ship itself will take at least another month. So there is still time to think about a name.

There is another issue for the Deep Space 2 crew. The space station is in orbit of an icy planet. On the icy planet there is a base populated by a mix of eighty military, civilians and scientists. The latest news is that the planet is slowly getting closer to the star of the system. Scientists are not yet concerned as the distance between the planet and the star is still almost 3 astronomical units, three times the distance from Earth to the Sun. Calculations indicate that the Deep Space 2 planet will collide with the star in billions of years. But there is another thing that is a result of the moving of the planet. Even at this distance there are more ground quakes all over the planet. And that is a problem. Within 20 years these ground quakes will be so severe, that the planet cannot hold any structures of any kind. The space station will of course not be affected as the ground quakes are not a danger for a space station. But the planet is also a strategic shield for Deep Space 2. Scientists have no idea how to stop this.


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 301
Scientists on Deep Space 2 are trying to find a solution for the Deep Space 2 icy planet. Calculations have already indicated that the planet quakes now will change into volcanic activity, which will warm up the planet but also flood it with lava.

This will occur within thirty years. That is much closer to the current day. Most of the officers who are now serving on Deep Space 2 will probably still serve on Deep Space 2 within thirty years. Those officers especially are extremely motivated to find a solution. One of them has an idea. It is Junior Lieutenant Eniz who gives a briefing in the conference room before the senior staff of Deep Space 2.

"Good morning sirs. I will come right to the point. If you look at my calculations, you will see that within thirty years volcanic activity on the planet below will disturb the planet. This is not an immediate threat to the planet, but it leads to concern. One of the consequences of this volcanic activity is a huge amount of smoke covering the planet and making the planet no longer accessible for us. But I have several solutions. One is to move the station to another planet in the system which is not in any danger of natural disasters. That is the easy way and will not safe the planet we now use for Deep Space 2 activities. If we want to safe the planet we will have to move the planet itself. We can do this by creating a magnetic field around the planet and use that magnetic field to move the planet in a higher orbit of the star. The works will take about two years and in the process of doing this, we do not have to go to the planet so we will not be in any danger. The only thing we do not have and have to build are huge generators as large as small moons to provide power for the magnetic field around the planet. So we need resources to build those generators."

Commander Marianne has some doubts.

"Moving an entire planet?"

"Yes Commander. I see this as the only way to safe the planet."

A discussion starts. Different opinions are offered. Eventually there is no objection to Junior Lieutenant Eniz plan. But there is someone who has an interesting remark. It is the Admiral himself who has something to add.

"If we are going to move the planet, why don't we move it to a lower orbit of the star? We could make this planet habitable. At the moment it is a rock of ice that will have volcanic activity in the near future. If we have to move the planet to safe it, why not to a place where we can colonize it."

Junior Lieutenant Eniz does not need time to think about this idea.

"That is a possibility sir. In fact, it would be an amazing achievement. If you want I can make the calculations."

"Make it so Lieutenant Eniz."

Far away on a deep space mission the USS Strike is close to a pulsar system. The data is coming in like a flood. Commander Nadine, in command of the USS Strike receives a message from Admiral Arthur, in command of Deep Space 2. Commander Nadine and the USS Strike are recalled to Deep Space 2. There is no hurry. Gathering data from the pulsar is a priority. But as soon as that mission is completed the USS Strike has to return home.


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 302
During the senior staff meeting aboard the USS Strike Commander Nadine informs her officers that after this mission at the pulsars the ship has to return home to Deep Space 2. But trhere will be time enough to gather all the data needed to complete decent scientific research.

"Are you saying Commander that if this mission takes another month or even two, there is no problem?"

"Those are our orders. We take all the time we need, but after we are done here, we have to return to Deep Space 2. There we will hear what our next mission is. So for now and the next months or even a year, we stay here until we know everything there is to know about the pulsar.

"This pulsar must be very important that we can stay as long as we need. Commander Is there something we are missing here?"

"That is a good question Lieutenant. And I do not have the answers. That is why we stay here and try to find out. So get on with it. Dismissed."

All stand up and return to their posts. Commander Nadine stays and reads the latest reports. There seems to be more to this pulsar than it seems, but what?

Aboard Deep Space 2 The entire crew has been working on the plan to move the planet. Everyone wants to save the planet. But there is still lots to be done. But there are also a lot of other things to be done. One of those is building new ships, developing new technology, explore new sectors.

Twenty minutes later the USS Hammerhead leaves Deep Space 2 spacedock. Even a small ship like the Hammerhead has a transwarp drive.

"We are clear and free to navigate Captain."

"Helm, engage the tranwarp drive and set course to sector 77787."

"Aye sir. On our way."

The USS Hammerhead, with a crew of fourteen is heading to sector 77787. It is a scouting mission. It takes the USS Hamerhead About a day to get to its destination.
"Captain we are approaching the border of Sector 77787."

"Start scanning Lieutenant. Let's see what is out there."

The USS Hammerhead enters the sector. The first reports are not very spectacular. A few star systems with uninhabited planets, a large asteroid belt, and a single star without planets.

"Captain, there is nothing here at first sight. I suggest we make a large..."

"What is it Lieutenant?"

"Something small sir. It looks like an anomaly of some kind. We are to far away to make any conclusions."

The Captain thinks for a moment.

"Helm set a course to this anomaly. We will go to yellow alert."

"Yellow alert, yellow alert."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 303
Personal Log Admiral Arthur
The new plan of building generators around the Deep Space 2 planet to create a static shell around the planet so we can move the planet closer to the sun, has been set in motion. It is going to be a long term effort to accomplish, but moving the planet in a closer orbit will probably make the planet more habitable for us as well. If this technological miracle works, we can use it on other planets which are for example in an unstable orbit around their star. We are still working on the effect this static shell will have on living entities. If life forms on a planet will suffer from this technology, we can not use it on planets that are host to life forms. But we are not there yet.

I have given Commander Nadine as much time as she and her crew need to examine a pulsar. There are of course more pulsars in the galaxy, but this one is special. I have received the coordinates of this pulsar from Colonel Bier of the planet Orange. Orange is much more advanced than our Federation. Colonel Bier didn't give much explanation and said we have to have a look for ourselves. Not all data is in yet. That could take even a few months. I am very curious.

The USS Hammerhead has found an anomaly in Sector 77787. I am still waiting for the latest report. But I have a ship on stand-by just in case.

The new ship has been completed. The first tests results in space are very promising. We still do not have a name for the new ship. Next month, when all the tests are positive, we will ask the Deep Space 2 crew to vote on a new name.

Then there is the USS Alan Shepard on its way to Sector 98987. sector 98987 is out of range of the deep Space 2 deep space sensors. So the only way we will know what is out there, we have to go there and have a look. We could have send a few probes, but for gathering information probes are to small to cover an entire sector.

The USS Los Angeles is has arrived in Sector 45699. Captain Mike Trout and his crew have already made first contact with a very nice species who call themselves Groti. These Groti are taking care of the entire sector. They are really helping all the other species in their sector. They are also protecting them as well. It is nice to see different species living in harmony like that. That has become rare in this galaxy. Maybe the Groti will not join the Federation, but they could be an excellent trade partner.

And then there is the usual. We keep an eye out for Borg activity, the Mirror Universe, we help out as much as we can on the new Romulan home planet and Deep Space 2 Engineering is working on the smallest ship that can have a transwarp drive. It is only a plan on the drawing board. And the project will start as soon as our latest ship is completely operational. Maybe USS Newton would be a good name. Maybe I should vote for that.

End Log
Far away from Deep Space 2 in Sector 77787 the USS Hammerhead with a crew of 14 has arrived at a safe distance of an anomaly.

"Sir, we are in short range sensor range of the anomaly. Data is coming in."

"Acknowledged Lieutenant. Any idea yet what this is?"

"Not yet sir. Insufficient data. At this point it could be anything."

"Keep scanning. We are not really in a hurry."

"Understood sir. Wait a minute. Sir, the anomaly is moving. It is moving towards us sir."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 304
While the crew of the USS Strike still conducts research around the pulsar, it has become clear that this pulsar is not a regular pulsar. Between the two stars, there is only very little space.

"Commander Nadine, there is something happening in the space between the two stars. It is some kind of power surge."
"Lieutenant Merhold, are the two stars causing this power surge?"

No Commander. There is something. Sensors have not been able to have a good reading. There is to much interference from the stars."

"If I would bring you closer, would you be able to get better readings Lieutenant?"

"I don't think that would help Commander. The stars are now very close to each other, but they are moving apart again. It is their cycle. In an hour they are at maximum distance from each other. At that moment we have about one minute to scan the area and determine what is there. After a minute the stars will start to get closer again. The cycle will then be complete in an hour. Then the stars are at minimum distance from each other. Then a new cycle begins."

"OK Lieutenant. Let's put our sensors to maximum. We don't want to miss the moment."

"I am already on it Commander."

"Excellent Lieutenant. Let me know when you are ready."

"Aye Commander."

Fifty minutes later USS Strike Chief of Operations Lieutenant Merhold is more concentrated than half an hour before.

"Commander. It is time"

"OK. Let's see what we can see."

"Sensors online. To maximum. Regulating power. We have a visual."

Let's see it on the main viewer."

On the main viewer some kind of object appears in the small space between the two stars which form the pulsar.

"What is that Lieutenant?"

"We are gathering data Commander. We still have thirty seconds. At first sight it looks like a huge ring. On both sides of the ring there are some kind of bulges or extensions. Ten seconds. There are no energy readings coming from the object. Time is up. Interference from the two stars is to much. For a next scan we will have to wait two hours."

"Let's analyse the data we already have Lieutenant. Send the data to Deep Space 2. Maybe they can find something we cannot see."

"Aye Commander."

Far away from the pulsar and the USS Strike, the USS Hammerhead in Sector 77787 has raised shields. An anomaly is coming straight towards the ship. But as soon the shields are raised, the anomaly comes to a stop.

"It stopped Captain. Sir could this be an intelligent life form?"

"There is always that possibility Lieutenant. Helm, hold this position. Comms, send a message of peace and greetings on all frequencies."

"Message is sent sir."

"Well then. All we can do now is wait."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 305
Tension is rising aboard the USS Hammerhead. The anomaly is still at the same position. The USS Hammerhead has not moved since the encounter with the anomaly. It is the Captain who breaks the silence.

"Any answers to our attempts to communicate with this anomaly Lieutenant?"

"That is a negative sir. It hasn't even moved."

"We cannot stay in sector 77787 for ever. Keep trying Lieutenant. If we have no success in communicating with the anomaly in 30 minutes, we will leave."

"Aye sir."

"XO, get the ship ready to leave in 30 minutes."

"Aye sir. All hands, this is the bridge. Get ready to warp speed in 30 minutes."

A few moments later already all departments have reported being ready for warp speed. The waiting commences. Slowly the crew of the USS Hammerhead returns to their regular duties, maintaining and preparing the ship. After 15 minutes apparently nobody of the crew still believes the Anomly will communicate with the USS Hammerhead. Although there is still hope, it is slowly fading.

The Captain and his first officer contact Admiral Arthur at Deep Space 2 asking for orders. The Admiral Gives the Captain full authority to make a decision.

"15 minutes sir. Unless you change your mind sir"

"I don't think that will happen Lieutenant. The XO and I have already spoken to the Admiral. We don't see what else we could do. There is still some time, but I don't expect anything to change."

There is nothing else to do. Everything that has been tried, did not end successful. The anomaly has not reacted in any way. It has not moved. Time passes.

"Helm set a course away from the anomaly, maximum speed."

"Course is set Captain."

The Captain hesitates for a few seconds. He shakes his head, showing he had imagined this encounter to end differently.

"Time to go. Helm get us out of here."

The USS Hammerhead starts to move faster and faster. The anomaly follows the ship for an hour and then gives up. It turns and proceeds on a different heading.

The Captain of the USS Hammerhead sits down in the center seat. He looks at his First Officer.

"Well XO. I hoped for something more than this in a first contact situation."

"Me too Captain. But at least it wasn't hostile."

"You are right about that XO. Maybe we will meet again."

The USS Hammerhead continues exploring Sector 77787. The next star system on the map is the Triono System, with three possible inhabited planets.

While the captain and the crew of the USS Hammerhead continue their exploration, the crew of the USS Strike still in orbit of a giant pulsar examines the data gathered in one minute. The images are clear, but scientists have no idea what they are looking at. Scientists on Deep Space 2 are also looking at the same images, but they have never seen something like this before.

"It is a giant ring sir. But I don't think it is a gateway like we have here. But it is a possibility. We would like more data on energy readings from the USS Strike sir. A cycle takes two hours and every cycle they can scan for one minute. That is not a lot of time. This will take some time."

"The USS Strike is not going anywhere. We have time. So we have to be patient. Every two hours we will get one more piece of the puzzle."

"Indeed sir. We are looking forward to the next piece."

Aboard the USS Strike scientists have come up with a new way to scan the giant ring between the stars of the pulsar. All shuttlecraft will be launched and will also help with scanning the giant ring.

"Commander. Two minutes."

"Are all shuttlecraft in position?"

"They are Commander. We are ready."

"We will get better at this. We have one minute. Look sharp everyone. Start scanning."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 306
The USS Hammerhead is on its way Triono System in Sector 77787. The crew turns shifts and regular operations continue. In the two weeks the USS Hammerhead is travelling the crew conducts weapon tests, red alert drills, battle simulations, but also life support drills and scientific tests.

"Captain. We are one week away from the Triono System. There is nothing between us and Triono, not even a comet or an asteroid. There is also something else sir. The number of stars seem to be decreasing. Lieutenant Commander K'tak has calculated that if the decreasing of the number of stars continues we will end up in a void within 9 weeks. That is far passed Triono. But we should see a result in the Triono System."

"That sounds a bit weird XO. Space without stars. Is there something on some map of this region?"

"No sir. Nothing is known. But our maps are rather general maps, a result the scanning of six probes. The sensors of these probes were not very advanced. My guess is that Command will send us there after our visit to Triono."

"If the number of stars keeps decreasing of course. Maybe it is just nothing. A little hole in the galaxy."

"We can explore this galaxy for our entire life and just see a very small part of it. Don't you think that too sir?"

"We just get a few pieces of the huge puzzle. I know one thing XO, I am going to enjoy every second of it."

"I have always imagined what is out here sir and I have not yet been disappointed. Maybe this next thing. Checking duty rosters."

The XO stands up from his comfortable chair and smiles. He takes the padd and leaves the Captain's ready room. When the door opens he hears the Captain laugh.
"Have fun XO."

The XO doesn't turn around. He waves with the padd and steps onto the bridge where a junior officer shouts.

"XO on the bridge!"

The door of the ready room closes. The Captain is alone. He stands up and walks to the window. He looks at the stars. There are not that many stars in this region. It is not clear whether this is only a local phenomena, or for a wide region. It is to early to tell.

"One minute. Now. Go go go."

Aboard the USS Strike Commander Nadine and her crew are ready for the next scan of the ring object between the pulsar stars. They have one minute to complete the scan. All the shuttle crafts are gathering data as well. In the next phase all the data have to be analysed by the scientists and engineers in two hours. The crew has to be ready for the next chance to scan the object for one minute.

"Scanning window is closing in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 and close. Science lab three did you receive the data?"

"Affirmative. We have received all the data, including the data of the shuttle crafts. We are already analysing. We will keep you posted."

Then the waiting on the bridge begins again. Data is gathered and analysed. It takes nine hours before a preliminary report gives some insight in the ring object.

"Commander, this giant ring is a space ship. It is trapped between the stars of the pulsar."

"How did you come to that conclusion?"

"The ring is hollow, the ring has some kind of windows and most important it is sending out a distress call. I must say we have not yet enough data to conclude there is life aboard or how to get this ship out of their situation. Our tractor beam will not do it. We will have to get closer for that, to close in fact. Then we will be in the same situation as they are, stuck. We will have to find another way. And we have to consider that we only have one minute to get this ship out of there. It is not going to be easy Commander."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 307
The reports about the strange phenomena that the number of stars in Sector 77787 is decreasing, has reached Deep Space 2, where Admiral Arthur is puzzled. he has never heard of this strange phenomena. There are no reports from any other exploring ships, deep space probes, or anything the Federation sends out there that has mentioned this kind of void like situation in the middle of space. Except for on time in the Delta Quadrant, but that void is well known and well documented.

The USS Hammerhead is currently in Sector 77787 on its way to the Triono System, a star system apparently without any problems with the low number of stars in the region. If there is intelligent life in the Triono System, The USS Hammerhead Captain hopes these life forms are peaceful and maybe they can explain the low number of stars. The journey goes faster as there is nothing really interesting to investigate in the sector.

"Captain, there are now even less stars we can detect with our long range sensors. But the good news is that tomorrow we will arrive at the Triono System. We have already detected three planets. But we have to get closer for more accurate readings. I hope we can solve this mystery."

"Indeed XO. Maybe we..."

The Captain is interrupted.

Captain and XO to the bridge. We detect three ships on an intercept course."

The two senior officers leave the Captain's ready room and march onto the bridge. Three ships of unknown design are clearly visible on the main viewer. The duty officer reports.

"No communications yet sir. We have sent messages on all frequencies. At their current speed they will intercept us in two hours twenty six minutes."

"Keep trying to communicate with them. We may not be in range of their communications capabilities yet. If they are hostile we will know soon enough."

"Aye Captain."

"Tactical, what is our status?"

"Captain, all weapons at one hundred percent, shields currently at fifty percent."

"Excellent. The only thing we can do now is wait. It is up to them now."

The three ships still are on an intercept course towards the USS Hammerhead two hours later. But there is finally contact. to the surprise of the USS Hammerhead bridge officers on the main viewer a man appears in uniform. Next to him is a woman, in the same uniform.

"Attention approaching ship. I am Captain Dobe in command of the Fifth Scoutgroup of the Second Triono Fleet. If you are peaceful, you are very much welcome. If you are not peaceful, we advice you to return where you came from. Please identify yourself."

"This is Captain Roel in command of the USS Hammerhead. I represent the United Federation of Planets. We are explorers. Currently we are investigating why there are only a small number of stars in this region of space. Maybe you can help us with that."

"Captain Roel of the USS Hammerhead. You seem to be coming in peace. You will receive a temporary access to our territory. With this you will also receive a list of rules and regulations we want you to follow. About the number of stars in this region, I cannot explain. I am not a scientist. But please feel free to contact our scientists. You can find all data in your list you have just received. Welcome, and don't get into trouble."

The USS Hammerhead has received all kinds of documents on what to do and what not to do, where they can get specific information, and much more. The three Triono ships return to one of the planets.

Far away from the Triono System, close to a pulsar, the scientists of the USS Strike discover a space ship stuck between the pulsar. As a tractor beam is no solution, another solution is needed. All attempts to contact the ship have failed so far.

It is Chief of Operations and Second Officer Lieutenant Merhold who has a plan.

"Commander, We can try to send a probe with a cable attached to it. It is a bit like the grappler. The idea is that the probe will attach itself to the stuck ship and we pull it out. Sending the probe takes 15 seconds, attaching 5 seconds and we have about 40 seconds to pull out the stuck ship. If this doesn't work we can at least measure the force that holds this ship."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 308
The USS Hammerhead is entering Triono space, located in sector 77787. Captain Roel and his crew have received a list of rules, regulations and laws, but also a small database of who to contact and institutions.

"Captain, we have entered orbit of Triono II. Orbit procedures are complete. We are now at the exact location received by Triono Space Control."

"Excellent. Now we can go to the planet, but remember we can only send ten people maximum at maximum two locations which can only be received by contacting the local Triono Landing Officer who will make the appointment with who we want to visit. I know this sounds a bit strange for us, but those are the Triono rules and we will not violate those rules. So we will assign two teams, one diplomatic team and one science team. Lieutenant, contact the local Triono Landing Officer and ask an appointment with scientists and diplomats."

"Aye sir. Making contact now. This is going to take some time sir. There are three requests before ours."

The Captain turns to his operations officer.

"Are there other ships not native to Triono in orbit?"

"One moment sir. Let's see. Six ships are in orbit, not native to Triono. They are all unknown designs sir. According the Triono rules we are not allowed to scan these ships. We are allowed to contact them sir."

"No we are not going to do that. If we are contacted by one of the others, we will of course answer. Are the teams ready XO?"

"Science team reports ready. Diplomatic team is ready. They have not yet received their designations on Triono sir. That will probably not take long."

While the Captain and away teams wait for a designation on Triono, a situation report is sent to Deep Space 2, where the duty officer informs the Admiral.

"Admiral, we have a sit-rep from the USS Hammerhead."

"Thank you Commander."

Admiral Arthur takes a look at his viewer. The report from the USS Hammerhead appears. The Admiral smiles. He recognizes the Triono bureaucracy. He has seen it many times in the Federation. But these are the Triono rules, so patience is called for.

Next there is a report from the USS Strike. With some kind of complicated grappler system the crew of the USS Strike have been able to rescue a ship that was stuck in a quasar. The ship was a Jgteller colony ship. The Jgteller ship is now on its way to their original colony planet. The USS Strike receives all data gathered by the Jgteller captain as thanks for the rescue. All of this data is unique and could never have been gained by the USS Strike crew. This makes the Pulsar mission for the USS Strike complete. While the USS Strike sets course to Deep Space 2, the Jgteller ship sets course to their colony planet where they arrive after sixteen days, around the same time the USS Strike arrives at Deep Space 2 space station.


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 309
The USS Strike has returned to Deep Space 2 where Commander Nadine is called to the arboretum. The Deep Space 2 arboretum is a large forest with in the middle an open space. There the complete Deep Space 2 senior staff with Admiral Arthur is assembled.

Commander Nadine arrives as the last one. She has no clue what this meeting is about and she can only think she has missed some kind of message from the Admiral. The Admiral speaks. Everyone is silent.

"OK, listen up. Listen up. We have one of the most important issues at hand we can have. it has come to my ears that one of you, yes yes yes one of my very own senior officers has done things which I, how will I put it, have been talking about with my First Officer, General Jan, in detail. Therefore, XO General Jan, please read the order."

"Aye sir. Listen up. Listen up. This is the order. Commander Nadine, step forward."

Commander Nadine steps forward looking around a bit so it goes unnoticed. A few meters from the XO she is stopped by Captains Luke and Wim. Both Captains stand next to her when the XO takes the padd and starts to read.

"This order will be effective immediately. Due to exceptional completing missions, being an inspiration to the crew and on several occasions save many from a disaster. Listen up. Listen up. Therefore for this exceptional work, Commander Nadine is promoted to the rank of Captain with all the privileges and responsibilities that come with that rank. Hooray! Hooray! Hooray!"

Lots of cheering and applauding. Congratulations are given to the brand new Captain Nadine of the Deep Space 2 fleet. But the celebration is short. Deep Space 2 First Officer General Jan already has new orders ready.

"Captain Nadine you will go to Sector 99229. There is an outpost which is in need."

Captain Nadine is transported to her ship where she receives the congratulations of her XO Commander Erika and her crew. But there is no time to lose. The USS Strike is powering up, engaging the transwarp drive and a few moments later it is on its way.

In the arboretum on Deep Space 2, the senior officers and other Captains transport back to their stations and their ships. The admiral is the last to leave. He takes a look around, touches a leave of a big oak, smells the fresh air and then finally steps out in the corridor of the huge space station. the station that is slowly moving towards the planet. The planet is moving itself, closer to the star, extremely slowly. It will take thousands of years before the planet will be affected by the star, but The Admiral has decided to intervene. His plan to stabilise the planet has already been set in motion.



Far away from Deep Space 2 in Sector 77787 Captain Roel and his officers of the USS Hammerhead are still working on the huge amount of Triono paperwork. There are still six permits to be acquired. It will certainly take at least two more weeks.


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 310
The USS Strike is on its way to Sector 99229. Outpost 92 has asked for help. It is not a distress call but there are problems with communications, the major power grid, a harvester, a shuttlecraft, and a lot of small tools. The main reason for all this is the fact that nobody has visited Outpost 92 in at least 4 months. But now the USS Strike is on its way and will arrive in less that 6 hours.

"Everything checks out Captain," says Chief Engineer Lieutenant Herebo and he adds, "It is perfectly normal these things need maintenance. Captain, I have a team ready. We will fix everything rather fast."

"I am happy to hear that Mister Herebo."

XO Commander Erika has something to add.

"Strange thing is that usually a small starship or even a runabout brings supplies to outposts, but in the case of Outpost 92 that has not happened. I have checked the schedules. There is nothing there. They should at least have some resupplying during the time they are out there. There was nothing planned."

"They didn't ask for anything?"

"No Captain. There is zero request."

"Who dropped them there?"

"That was the USS Lavender, Captain. Just a routine mission. The USS Lavender continued to the next mission which was a diplomatic mission at Gasrte II. I hope I pronounce that name correctly. There is nothing strange about this mission. Just an outpost need for supplies. In an hour we will have contact with outpost 92 Captain."

"Excellent. Call me if we are in reach of communications. That will be all. Dismissed."

The officers leave the conference room. Some of them find it nice to have an easy mission for a change. Of course it is no vacation, but senior officers now have time to train junior officers. So on the bridge an hour later are two lower decks officers at the helm, operations, tactical and engineering stations. Operations Officer Ensign Gyter has the honour to make contact with Outpost 92. He is doing very well. Outpost 92 replies with a thank you for the information. We are expecting you. But Ensign Gyter also learned that while travelling at transwarp speed, visual communication is not possible. So his communication is short but efficient. Chief of Operations Lieutenant Merhold approves.

"Very good Ensign. This was not very difficult. But you cleaned up the background noise very well. I didn't have to give you any hints. You are making progress."

Thank you sir. Shall I report to the Captain sir?"

Lieutenant Merhold smiles.

"All right Ensign you have earned that."

Now it is Ensign Gyter who smiles. His report to the Captain is also short and efficient.



Far away from Deep Space 2 in Sector 77787 Captain Roel and his officers of the USS Hammerhead have finally completed the huge amount of Triono paperwork. They did it in 10 days. The first scientists and diplomats are transporting to the planet by shuttlecraft. That is protocol.



The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 311
Far away from Deep Space 2 in Sector 77787 Captain Roel and his officers of the USS Hammerhead have finally completed the huge amount of Triono paperwork. There is finally a possibility to land on the planet. The Triono send coordinates where the USS Hammerhead teams are allowed to land. It is not the best location, but there is no choice.

They had been sent on a mission to land on the planet Triono, but the journey had been plagued with bureaucracy and delays. But this was what had to be done. The team was made up of scientists, engineers and soldiers, each with their own area of expertise to help accomplish the mission objectives.

The landing coordinates they were given by the Triono were in the middle of nowhere, but still close to a large city. As the team landed on Triono, they quickly set up camp and began to explore their new surroundings. The planet was unlike anything they had ever seen before, with towering mountains, deep canyons, and lush forests. The team was amazed by the diverse array of plant and animal life that thrived on the planet, and they spent many hours collecting samples and taking photographs.

The Triono lived in a large city that was located in a valley surrounded by mountains. The city was home to a population of millions, and it was a marvel of advanced technology and engineering. The team was amazed by the skyscrapers, transportation systems, and other infrastructure that had been built by the Triono. They also discovered that the Triono had a highly developed culture and society.

Despite the many bureaucratic challenges they had faced, the team was able to accomplish their mission. They managed to find a way to communicate with the Triono and eventually an agreement was formed. The Triono civilization shared some of their advanced technology with the team, and in return, the Triono were able to join the Federation which promised to protect the planet and its inhabitants.

The team discovered that the Triono had been using an advanced form of energy that was clean and renewable, able to power entire cities with just a small amount of the resource. They also discovered that the alien medicine was able to cure diseases that were considered incurable in the Federation. The team brought back samples of the resources and technology, as well as detailed reports and research data.

As the team prepared to leave the planet, Captain Roel knew that they would always remember the incredible journey they had taken to Triono, and the discoveries they had made there would change the Federation forever. The team returned to Deep Space 2 with knowledge and technology that would propel the Federation forward for centuries to come. The planet Triono and its inhabitants were now under the protection of the Federation, and Captain Roel and his crew of the USS Hammerhead were complemented for their diplomacy and ingenuity.



When the USS Strike arrives at Outpost 92, everything goes as fast as Chief Engineer Herebo has predicted. All smaller issues are solved in a short time. With a team effort the main generator is reviewed, renewed and all the questionable parts are replaced.

Supplies are delivered. And the entire crew gets the chance to transport to the planet to have some time on a rather new discovered planet. All of them can follow the scientific research. The team of Outpost 92 is extremely happy to meet new people and after a week some of them will stay in contact.

After a week the USS Strike has to return to Deep Space 2 for a new assignment. The only thing Captain Nadine knows is that it will not be as easy as this last mission.


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 312
The USS Vindicator was a starship in the 22th century, tasked with testing new shields in an asteroid field. The ship was state-of-the-art, and the crew was highly skilled. Captain Emily Lee led the mission with confidence.

As they entered the asteroid field, the ship's sensors detected an unusual energy signature. Captain Lee ordered the crew to investigate, and they soon discovered that it was coming from a nearby asteroid. The crew analyzed the readings and discovered that the asteroid contained a rare mineral that could enhance the ship's shields.

Captain Lee ordered the crew to mine the asteroid for the mineral. They used advanced mining equipment to extract the mineral, but as they worked, they noticed that the asteroid was unstable. Captain Lee ordered the crew to finish quickly and prepare to leave.

However, as they tried to depart, a sudden explosion rocked the ship, damaging their shields. Captain Lee quickly ordered the crew to activate the new shields they had just tested. The shields worked flawlessly, protecting the ship from the debris and allowing them to escape the asteroid field safely.

The USS Vindicator returned to Earth, where Captain Lee reported the success of the shield test to Starfleet Command. The new shields had proven to be effective, and Captain Lee knew that they would be useful in future missions. She couldn't help but feel proud of her team's success, and she knew that they would continue to explore the vast expanse of space, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and technology.

But on the next mission the USS Vindicator, under command of Captain Emily Lee, disappeared in Sector 16761. Other ships conducted a search, but after three months all searching ships were called back and were given new orders. Nothing had been found. The USS Vindicator had vanished without a trace. That was 200 years ago. And suddenly, 200 years later there is a distress call with an identification code of the USS Vindicator.



The USS Strike has returned to Deep Space 2 for a new assignment. Captain Nadine reports to Admiral Arthur in his office.

"Admiral."

"Captain. Please sit down. I have something special for you and your crew. Look."

The admiral points to a larger viewer. The Federation logo disappears and is replaced by an old Federation ship. The Admiral explains.

"This is the USS Vindicator. It was lost about 200 years ago somewhere in Setor 16761. It was as if the USS Vindicator had disappeared. Three days ago we have received a distress call from sector 16761 and the USS Vindicator code was used to identify the communication. There are some possibilities. Someone found the wreckage of the USS Vindicator wich could be crashed on a planet and make the communication array work again. Another possibility is that the USS Vindicator has traveled through time. We have also been thinking about the crew of the USS Vindicator. They coud have crashed on a planet and as the survivors could not leave or communicate, they stayed on the planet and their offspring started a colony and finally someone got the communications unit back on line. Your mission is to find out what happened to the USS Vindicator and who is sending that distress call. Be carefull. It could be a trap of some kind as well."

"We will find out soon sir. At transwarp we will be there in 10 hours."

"All right then Captain. Keep us posted."

Half an hour later the USS Strike leaves Deep Space 2 Spacedock.

"Helm, set course to Sector 16761, maximum speed."

"Aye Captain. ETA in ten hours and seven minutes."

"Very well. I will be in my office. Number One, you have the ship."

Commander Erika stands up.

"Understood. XO has the ship."

As Captain Nadine walks off the bridge, Commander Erika sits down in the captain's seat.


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 313
In the year 2205, the USS Vindicator was on a routine mission in Sector 16761 when they encountered a strange anomaly. Before they had time to react, the ship was hit by a powerful burst of energy, and the crew was thrown into chaos.

As the ship's systems rebooted, they quickly realized that something was very wrong. Their navigation systems were malfunctioning, and the stars outside the viewport didn't look familiar. It wasn't until they ran a diagnostic that they realized what had happened.

The USS Vindicator had been thrown over 200 years into the future.

The crew was stunned. They had no idea how they had ended up in the year 2409 or how they were going to get back. But they knew they had to figure it out if they were going to survive.

There was no choice than to send out a distress call.



The USS Strike, under command of Captain Nadine responds to a distress call coming from the USS Vindicator which has disappeared in that sector 200 years ago. It is rather easy to find the source of the distress call.

"Captain, You are not going to believe this but our sensors have found the source of the USS Vindicator distress call. It is indeed the USS Vindicator. Their main engines are off line, life support is still working. Shields are out, they do have thrusters, and one torpedo launcher is still operational. Communications are working. I can contact the USS Vindicator."

"Contact them Lieutenant Lena."

"Channel is open. We have a connection."

"Thank you Lieutenant. USS Vindicator, USS Vindicator, This is Captain Nadine in command of the Federation starship USS Strike. We are responding to your distress call. We will arrive at your location in two minutes. How can we assist you?"

There are a few seconds of silence.

"USS Strike, USS Strike, this is Captain Emily Lee in command of the USS Vindicator. We have been here for five days. We were hit by an unknown anomaly. We were lucky we did not lose anyone, but there are some wounded. The first two days we have been repairing life support and shields. With the shields we have no success yet. Thank you for getting here so fast. We didn't know there was another Federation ship in this sector. If you could send some engineers and some medical personnel we will be on our way in 24 hours. I invite you to come aboard Captain Nadine. There is something I must speak to you about."

Two minutes later several engineering teams and medical personnel transports aboard the USS Vindicator. The crew is very happy with the help. Captain Nadine is also transported aboard the USS Vindicator to talk to the Captain Emily Lee. Captain Lee welcomes Captain Nadine in her office.

"Welcome Captain Nadine. Thanks again for all the help. I must be honest. This anomaly shook us real hard. We have no idea what it was. There was a loud noise and we were all on the floor. That is about it. Sensor logs are not yet accessable, but that is not a priority right now. I must say we did not recognise your ships model. I guess that should not surprise me."

"Captain Lee. There is no easy way to say this, but you have been launched 200 years into the future. That is why you do not recognise our uniform or our ship."

Captain Nadine shows Captain Lee a padd with all the files on the USS Vindicator and the disappearance of the USS Vindicator and the search for the missing ship in Sector 16761. A search the Federation ships had to give up. The USS Vindicator was considered lost.

"We knew this. That is why I wanted to speak to you. We have seen the data of our navigational computer. Some of my crew still cannot accept it. Captain Nadine, we have to go back. Maybe we can't. It can change this entire time line. Maybe you will not exsist. Or the Klingons rule this galaxy. But our families are in a different time. Some of my crewmembers have husbands and wifes and even children. How can I explain to them we are not going back to our own time?

"I cannot answer that, Captain Lee. Going back in time can indeed change everything in this timeline. But nobody will know."

"That may be so, but we will know. And your engineering teams are repairing my ship with technology we will not see in 200 years. We are already compromised in this timeline. Time paradox. I hate it. I have to talk to my crew about this again. This is a disaster."

"As soon as your ship is repaired and ready to go, we will escort you to Deep Space 2. Admiral Arthur will probably know what to do. He has connections with extremely advanced species. There must be a way to send you back without damaging to this timeline."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 314
There is no red alert on Deep Space 2 as the lights go out and all power is off line. Tere is no red alert, because there is no power to initiate it.

Admiral Arthur is one of the few aboard who is not affected by a time bubble, crated in the future. Only the EMH is online. But the EMH can only sigh. He transports himself to the Admiral's office.

"Admiral, I am a doctor not a time machine. Please take me offline."

"I cannot do that Doc. Sorry."

A voice behind the EMH sounds old. An older version of the Admiral is standing at the window. He turns around. He doesn't look concerned, but he must be. He waves his hand.

"The USS Vindicator is found. It has not changed the time line at all. That is the strange thing about all this. It seems that all of this had to happen. We have records of the USS Vindicator in this timeline. It should not be possible for an entire ship to travel through time without any effect on the time line. There is not even an indication this has to do with the temporal wars. It is an isolated incident. And the thing is, the USS Vindicator cannot be send back to its own time. It belongs here."

The EMH has experienced this before. There are two Admirals in the office and one of them is old and from the future. The other one is where and when he should be. There is no discussion possible. They are both the same, but still different. The EMH does not let go easy.

"May I ask both Admirals what happens to the crew of the USS Vindicator. They probably will not be happy about staying here in this time."

"They have to stay here Doc. There is no choice. I know they have lost everything they know, but believe me, there is no other option. Our temporal agents have made calculations that sending back the USS Vindicator and its crew will lead to the destruction of the entire galaxy or at least a large part of it. Every simulation has the same result."

But the EMH is not convinced.

"Maybe your temporal agents missed something. How ever small a chance that sending back the USS Vindicator will not lead to the destruction of this galaxy should be taken."

The old Admiral shakes his head.

"We would if there was any chance at all. But there is not. The USS Vindicator in 2205 will lead to the destruction of the entire Galaxy in 2208. We would not even have this conversation if that would happen. Again we have no choice."

The EMH still is not convinced."

"If the USS Vindicator is the cause of the destruction of the Galaxy, then how did they do it? Why has another ship or crew done it? What happened that only the USS Vindicator is the only cause? How can one ship and one crew destroy the Galaxy?"

The old Admiral looks at his younger self. He seems to hesitate. then he makes adecision.

"I will show you."

In the middle of the office a projection appears. It is clearly the USS Vindicator. The ship is traveling through space. The old Admiral sighs.

"This is what happens when we send the USS Vindicator back to its own time."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 315
The projection of the USS Vindicator shown by the old Admiral Arthur from the future in the Admiral's office shows what happens to the USS Vindicator if it is sent back to its own time 2205. The young Admiral Arthur and the EMH watch while the story of the USS Vindicator continues.

The story of the USS Vindicator in 2205 that never happend.
Captain Emily Lee was a seasoned Starfleet officer, respected and admired by her crew. She had spent her entire career aboard the USS Vindicator, leading her ship on countless missions of exploration and diplomacy. She was a brilliant tactician, a skilled diplomat, and a natural leader. But despite her many successes, she was haunted by a sense of restlessness, a feeling that something was missing from her life.

It was during a routine mission to explore a newly-discovered planet that disaster struck. The Vindicator was conducting a survey of the planet's surface when they detected an unusual energy reading emanating from deep within the planet's crust.

Captain Emily Lee and her crew had spent weeks on the USS Vindicator, mapping out the uncharted regions of space. They were nearing the end of their mission when they picked up the strange energy signature from a nearby planet.

"Captain, we're picking up an unusual energy signature from the planet's surface," Lieutenant Commander Jameson reported from the science station.

"Send an away team to investigate," Captain Lee ordered.

"Aye, Captain," Jameson replied as he tapped on his console to transmit the coordinates to the away team.

Captain Lee watched as the team assembled in the transporter room, checking their gear and going over their mission objectives.

"Be careful down there," she said as they stepped onto the transporter pad. "We don't know what we're dealing with yet."

As the away team beamed down to the planet's surface, Captain Lee monitored their progress from the bridge. She watched as their biosigns flickered on the screen, indicating that they had landed safely.

"Captain, the away team has reached the source of the energy signature," Jameson reported.

"What are they seeing?" Captain Lee asked.

"It's a device of some kind," Jameson replied. "It appears to be drawing power from the planet's core."

"Bring it aboard the ship for further analysis," Captain Lee ordered.

As the away team retrieved the device and returned to the ship, the Vindicator's systems began to act strangely. Panels flickered on and off, and the lights dimmed.

"What's going on?" Captain Lee asked.

"I'm not sure," Lieutenant Commander Thompson, the ship's chief engineer, replied. "The device seems to be interfering with our systems."

As they examined the device, they realized that it was a doomsday weapon, capable of destroying entire star systems with a single blast.

"We have to get rid of this thing," Captain Lee said, her voice tense with urgency.

But before they could dispose of the device, it activated, engulfing the Vindicator in a blinding flash of light.


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 316
The projection of the USS Vindicator shown by the old Admiral Arthur from the future in the Admiral's office shows what happens to the USS Vindicator if it is sent back to its own time 2205. The young Admiral Arthur and the EMH watch while the story of the USS Vindicator continues.

The story of the USS Vindicator in 2205 that never happend. And now the continuation.
When the crew of the USS Vindicator regained their senses, they found themselves surrounded by debris. They quickly realized that the device they had retrieved from the planet was a doomsday weapon, capable of destroying entire star systems with a single blast. And worse yet, they had accidentally activated it.

Captain Lee was devastated by the realization that her actions had led to the destruction of the galaxy. She had always prided herself on her professionalism and her commitment to the safety of her crew and the Federation. But now, she was responsible for a catastrophe of unprecedented proportions.

"Captain, what happened?" Lieutenant Commander Jameson asked.

"We activated the device by accident," Captain Lee replied, her voice shaking with emotion. "We've destroyed the galaxy."

The crew was silent for a moment, stunned by the magnitude of what had happened.

"What do we do now?" Lieutenant Commander Thompson asked.

"We have to find a way to undo what we've done," Captain Lee said, her voice determined. "We have to find a way to make things right."

As the crew set to work on repairing the ship and trying to reverse the damage caused by the device, Captain Lee retreated to her quarters to think.

"I never meant for this to happen," she said to herself, tears streaming down her face. "I never wanted to hurt anyone."

But as she reflected on what had happened, she realized that her ambition and her desire to be the best had blinded her to the consequences of her actions.

"I have to do better," she said to herself. "I have to be better."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 317
The projection of the USS Vindicator shown by the old Admiral Arthur from the future in the Admiral's office shows what happens to the USS Vindicator if it is sent back to its own time 2205. The young Admiral Arthur and the EMH watch while the story of the USS Vindicator continues.

The story of the USS Vindicator in 2205 that never happend. And now the continuation.
In the months and years that followed, Captain Lee and her crew worked tirelessly to repair the damage caused by the device. They helped the survivors rebuild, and they used their knowledge of the weapon to prevent others from making the same mistake.

And while the galaxy would never be the same, Captain Emily Lee would always be remembered as a hero, someone who had made a mistake but had worked tirelessly to make things right.

As the crew worked to repair the damage caused by the doomsday weapon, they discovered that the device had set off a chain reaction that was destabilizing the fabric of space-time.

"We can't stop it," Lieutenant Commander Thompson said, his voice filled with despair. "It's too late."

"We have to try," Captain Lee said, her voice firm. "We have to do everything we can to save the galaxy."

But as hard as they worked, they couldn't stop the chain reaction. It grew stronger with each passing day, tearing apart stars and planets, and leaving destruction in its wake.

In the end, there was nothing they could do but watch as the galaxy was consumed by the chaos they had inadvertently unleashed.

"We were supposed to be explorers," Captain Lee said, her voice shaking with grief. "We were supposed to bring hope and light to the universe."

But instead, they had brought only darkness and destruction.

As the USS Vindicator drifted through space, its crew scattered and lost, Captain Emily Lee realized that she had led them all to their doom.

"I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice choked with tears. "I'm so sorry."


The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 318
The projection of the USS Vindicator shown by the old Admiral Arthur from the future in the Admiral's office shows what happens to the USS Vindicator if it is sent back to its own time 2205. The young Admiral Arthur and the EMH watch while the story of the USS Vindicator continues.

The story of the USS Vindicator in 2205 that never happend. And now the conclusion.
The EMH is still not convinced.

"the USS Vindicator could be send back and they will not respond on that energy signal. So all of this will not happen."

The old Admiral from the future sighs again.

"This was the best case scenario. All other simulations of sending them back to their own time have consequences even worse."

"We could give them the necessary information. Where is the artifact now? Why don't we destroy the artifact? Can someone else find the artifact?"

Admiral Arthur from the future looked down.

Those are all good questions Doc. We only know the location of this artifact in a timeline ten years after the USS Vindicator should find it. Not before the USS Vindicator finds it. The USS Vindicator will find it first, whatever we do. There is no escape. We have already sent the USS Charleville back in time. The artifact is destroyed now. I will tell you what happened. Traveling back in time is not as easy as it looks. The USS Charleville encountered some problems."

The story of the USS Charleville in 2465 Traveling back to the 23rd century to destroy the artifact.
In the 25th century, the USS Charleville, a state-of-the-art starship equipped with cutting-edge technology and a diverse crew from various alien species, was on a daring mission to preserve the fabric of time itself. In their time, a mysterious artifact known as the Temporal Keystone had been discovered, capable of manipulating time at will. Recognizing the danger this artifact posed, the Federation commissioned the Charleville to travel back to the 23rd century and prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.

Captain Kara Travers, a brilliant and experienced officer, was in command of the Charleville. She assembled a team of experts, each with unique skills to tackle the challenges they would face in the past. Among the team was Dr. Rell, a time-travel physicist, Lt. Malaq, a skilled alien diplomat, and Ensign Jaina, an expert in ancient civilizations.

The Charleville's temporal jump took them back two centuries, and they found themselves in a time period familiar to Captain Kirk and the original USS Enterprise. To blend in and avoid disrupting the timeline, the crew disguised themselves as a lesser-known Federation research vessel.


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The first task of the USS Charleville's crew was to locate the artifact's original resting place and trace its path from there. Ensign Jaina had discovered historical records indicating that the Temporal Keystone was initially discovered on an uninhabited planet called Nuvia IV.

As they arrived at Nuvia IV, the crew faced unexpected challenges. The planet had evolved differently in the past than in their time. It was now lush with life, inhabited by a peaceful and primitive humanoid species called the Nuvians. The Nuvians revered the Temporal Keystone as a divine relic that brought prosperity to their world.

Infiltrating the primitive society without interfering was a delicate task. Lt. Malaq used his diplomatic expertise to gain the trust of the Nuvian elders, while Dr. Rell worked on a plan to neutralize the artifact without damaging the timeline. Meanwhile, Captain Travers and Ensign Jaina researched ancient texts and legends to understand the artifact's properties better.

They learned that the Temporal Keystone was guarded by a powerful energy field and only a specially-crafted key, known as the Chrono-Key, could disable it. The Chrono-Key had been hidden in a distant temple, surrounded by treacherous terrain and dangerous creatures.

With their plan set, the crew embarked on a perilous journey to retrieve the Chrono-Key. They faced harsh environments, indigenous wildlife, and moral dilemmas as they sought to preserve the timeline while obtaining the necessary tool.

After weeks of challenges, they finally acquired the Chrono-Key. The crew returned to the Nuvian village, where Lt. Malaq negotiated with the elders to gain temporary possession of the Temporal Keystone for a "celestial alignment" ceremony.

The night was shrouded in darkness as the Charleville's away team stood before the Temporal Keystone, illuminated only by the faint glow of alien constellations in the sky. They had managed to disable the artifact's energy field using the Chrono-Key, but their moment of triumph was short-lived as a portal ripped open before them, revealing a group of sinister figures clad in futuristic battle armor.

"Captain Travers, meet the Temporal Raiders," Ensign Jaina warned, her voice betraying a hint of anxiety. The Temporal Raiders were infamous in the 25th century for wreaking havoc across time, and now they had come to claim the artifact for themselves.

The Continuing Story of Deep Space 2: Page 320
Captain Kara Travers tightened her grip on her phaser, her steely resolve never faltering. "We can't let them take the Keystone," she declared, her voice carrying a mix of determination and caution. "Protect the artifact at all costs!"

The team spread out, taking cover behind ancient stone pillars and natural formations, using the terrain to their advantage. Dr. Rell, with his phaser at the ready, analyzed the energy signatures of the Temporal Raiders' weaponry, trying to find weaknesses in their technology.

Lt. Malaq stepped forward, his alien features displaying an aura of quiet confidence. "Temporal Raiders, we do not seek confrontation," he called out, attempting to reason with the mercenaries. "Leave this place, and we won't pursue you."

The leader of the Temporal Raiders, a tall and imposing figure with glowing crimson eyes, chuckled darkly. "You're too late, Federation fools. The Temporal Keystone will be ours, and with it, we shall reshape time itself," he sneered, his voice oozing malice.

With that, the battle erupted. Phaser fire filled the air as the Charleville's crew engaged in a fierce firefight with the Temporal Raiders. Captain Travers, a skilled marksman, fired precise shots, forcing the mercenaries to take cover. Ensign Jaina utilized her archaeological knowledge to outmaneuver her foes, anticipating their moves like an ancient battlefield tactician.

Dr. Rell, ever the physicist, used his ingenuity to create temporal disruptions, confusing the Raiders' targeting systems and temporarily neutralizing their weapons. However, the mercenaries were relentless, regrouping and pressing forward with renewed intensity.

As the battle raged on, the away team realized that time was not on their side. They needed to destroy the Temporal Keystone quickly before the Temporal Raiders gained the upper hand. However, the mercenaries were skilled fighters, and their advanced technology provided them with an edge in combat.

The ground shook as blaster bolts struck the ancient stone structures around them. Captain Travers ordered her team to fall back towards the Temporal Keystone, using the cover of chaos to move closer to their target. They advanced, inch by inch, firing back and holding their ground.

Ensign Jaina's heart pounded as she knew the fate of the future rested on their shoulders. She spotted an opening and made a daring run for the Temporal Keystone. She activated her portable time disruptor, intending to disable the artifact permanently.

Just as Jaina reached out to destroy the Keystone, the leader of the Temporal Raiders lunged at her, knocking the disruptor from her grasp. They engaged in hand-to-hand combat, their movements swift and precise. Jaina fought valiantly, but the Raider's experience in close combat proved formidable.

Captain Travers, witnessing her ensign's struggle, rushed to her aid. With a powerful leap, she delivered a crushing blow to the Raider, freeing Jaina from his grip. Together, they retrieved the disruptor, and with one last determined look at each other, they activated it together.

The Temporal Keystone crackled with energy, emitting a blinding light that engulfed the entire chamber. The battlefield seemed frozen in time for a brief moment before everything vanished into a void of light and darkness.

When the light subsided, the away team found themselves back on the Charleville's transporter platform. They had succeeded in destroying the Temporal Keystone, but the Temporal Raiders were gone, lost in the time stream.

Captain Travers exhaled a sigh of relief, her face still bearing the intensity of the battle. "Well done, everyone," she commended her team. "We may have lost the Temporal Raiders, but we've preserved the timeline."

The crew of the USS Charleville had prevailed against the odds, defending the past to secure the future. Their battle with the Temporal Raiders would be etched in their memories as a testament to their courage and determination to protect the timeline from those who sought to abuse the power of time travel.

The crew of the Charleville returned to their own time, triumphant in their mission. Their actions had preserved the timeline and prevented catastrophic changes to the past. They were hailed as heroes by the Federation, and Captain Travers and her team were commended for their bravery and resourcefulness.