DS2 RPG General Status Report January 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44

Aboard the USS Giant and USS Sun.

The dilemma faced by Captains Rodriguez and Thompson was palpable. The volunteers, having made their sacrifices, now looked to their captains for guidance. Should they commit their resources to aid the Celestial Nexus in fending off this external threat, potentially bringing them one step closer to returning home? Or should they prioritize their primary mission—finding a way back to the Federation?

As the captains pondered the decision, the fate of their crews and the course of their journey hung in the balance. The uncertain realms of the unknown galaxy held both promise and peril, and the next choice they made would shape the destiny of the USS Giant, the USS Sun, and their crew members who remained in this enigmatic space.



Aboard the USS Horizon.

Captain Voss, her expression hardened by determination, ordered an emergency evacuation of non-essential personnel to escape pods. The Horizon, its hull shuddering under the strain of the distortions, faced the risk of being pulled into the heart of the temporal storm.

Amidst the chaos, Captain Voss turned to her officers.

"We need to go back to the planet, back to the artifact. It's the only way to end this."



Aboard Starbase 44.

Admiral Steichen faced a critical choice. She could attempt to negotiate further, risking the safety of the starbase and its personnel, or prepare for a defensive stance that might escalate into a full-scale conflict. The resolution of this crisis would determine not only the fate of the artifacts but also the delicate balance of power in this region of space.

Players: CS


Starbase 88

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove's orders are clear.

"We will do as the mysterious figure suggests. There is another way, but the cost may be too high."

Captain Mercer exchanged a determined glance with Captain Serris, a silent understanding passing between them. The cryptic message from the mysterious figure had left them with a sense of foreboding, but the weight of responsibility pressed upon them. The fate of Sector 66699 and the safety of their crews were at stake.

"Admiral Van Nieuwenhove, we're going to follow the lead of this mysterious entity. We'll explore the other way, whatever the cost may be," Captain Mercer declared over the comms, his voice unwavering.

The admiral hesitated for a moment, his concern etched on his face. He knew the risks involved, but with the anomaly remaining a threat, he reluctantly gave his approval. "Proceed with caution, Captains. We'll be monitoring your every move from here."

The Endurance and the Polynasia adjusted course, heading deeper into the heart of the fractured space. The mysterious figure guided them with intermittent transmissions, providing cryptic instructions that tested the limits of their understanding of the laws of the cosmos.

As the starships delved into the unknown, the crewmembers worked feverishly to recalibrate their instruments and shields. The gravitational forces intensified, and the fabric of reality seemed to warp around them. Captain Serris couldn't shake the feeling that they were playing with forces far beyond their comprehension.

Suddenly, the mysterious figure's voice resonated through the comms again, "You must merge your ship's energy cores and resonate with the frequencies of the rift. Only then can you traverse the boundaries between dimensions."

The crewmembers exchanged uncertain glances, but they trusted in their captains' leadership. Following the instructions, the Endurance and the Polynasia synchronized their energy cores, the ships humming in harmony as they approached the rift. The viewscreens displayed a kaleidoscope of colors, and the very fabric of space seemed to shimmer.

As the starships entered the rift, a profound stillness settled over the crews. They found themselves in a surreal landscape, a realm that defied description. Reality warped and shifted, and the laws of physics no longer applied. It was a place between dimensions, a liminal space where time and space coexisted in a chaotic dance.

The mysterious figure's voice echoed once more, "You have entered the Veil, a realm beyond the known. To seal the rift, you must sacrifice a part of your ships' essence. It is the only way to restore the balance."

Captain Mercer and Captain Serris exchanged a solemn look. The crews understood the gravity of the situation. Sacrificing a part of their ships meant risking vital systems and components, but they had come too far to turn back now.

With a shared determination, the crews initiated the sacrifice. The ships shuddered as their essence was offered to the Veil, and a surge of energy resonated through the anomaly. The rift began to close, slowly but steadily.

As the anomaly sealed, the crews exhaled a collective breath they hadn't realized they were holding. The Veil released its hold on the starships, and reality stabilized around them. They had succeeded, but at what cost?

The mysterious figure's voice returned, "The balance is restored. You have paid the price, and the rift is closed. But be warned, the Veil remembers. The consequences may reveal themselves in ways you cannot predict."

As the Endurance and Polynasia exited the rift and returned to normal space, they were met with the relieved acknowledgment of Admiral Van Nieuwenhove. The crew members, though fatigued, were elated to have averted disaster.

Yet, as they celebrated their success, an unsettling uncertainty lingered. The mysterious figure's warning echoed in their minds, leaving the crews of the Endurance and Polynasia to ponder the consequences of their actions in the uncharted depths of the cosmos. The true nature of the Veil and the price paid for sealing the rift remained an enigma, setting the stage for new challenges and revelations that would shape the destiny of Sector 66699.

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!



And so the Borg Collective has some objectives.


"We will continue to convince the Dominion to make an alliance with the Borg but keep them hanging.  They will be ripe fort he picking soon enough. We will try to kidnap a Founder. How would such a founder look when being examined and picked apart by our glorious Borg sciencedepartment. And as important, it is time to end the Romulan civil war. We will not assimilate those Romulans who want to join the Borg freely, but give them spy jobs like the Tal Shiar agents who are already working for the Borg. We will assimilate all those Romulans who do not want to join freely. Romulan military will not be a match for the Borg."


As the intricate dance between the Borg and the Dominion unfolded, negotiations between the two powers continued. The Borg, relentless in their pursuit of perfection, sought to convince the Changelings of the benefits of an alliance. The Dominion, wary of the Borg's assimilative nature, remained cautious but found themselves drawn into a web of promises and technological temptations.

In a calculated move, the Borg initiated a covert mission to the Gamma Quadrant, aiming to kidnap a Founder from the heart of the Dominion. Such an action would not only provide a strategic advantage but also serve as a display of the Borg's unyielding determination.

The Borg's science department, driven by the pursuit of knowledge and adaptation, meticulously examined the kidnapped Founder. The Changeling, normally a shape-shifting, amorphous entity, was subjected to advanced Borg technology. However, the examination proved challenging, as the Changeling's form resisted the conventional assimilation processes.

Adapting to the unique biology of the Changeling, the Borg employed specialized nanoprobes to extract information directly from the Founder's neural patterns. The examination revealed the secrets of the Dominion's military strategies, the inner workings of the Founders' link, and the vulnerabilities inherent in the Changeling physiology.

As the Borg delved into the Changeling's essence, the once-fluid entity found itself imprisoned in a rigid, assimilation-resistant structure. The Borg, eager to assimilate the knowledge and adaptability of the Changelings, relentlessly probed the Founder's consciousness, seeking to unravel the mysteries of the Dominion.

Simultaneously, the Borg turned their attention to the Romulan civil war. Recognizing that assimilating every Romulan was not strategically sound, the Borg devised a plan to divide and conquer. Those Romulans willing to join the Borg willingly were spared assimilation, instead offered roles as spies within the Borg-infested Romulan territories. The Tal Shiar agents, already sympathetic to the Borg cause, were joined by newly recruited Romulan informants.

The Romulan military, struggling against both internal strife and the looming Borg threat, found itself outmatched. The Borg's relentless efficiency and technological superiority overwhelmed the fractured Romulan forces. Those who resisted assimilation were subdued and forcibly integrated into the Collective, their individuality extinguished.

Amidst the chaos, a dilemma emerged. The Romulan civilians who had willingly joined the Borg, though spared assimilation, now faced the moral quandary of spying on their own kind. Loyalties were tested, and the line between ally and enemy blurred in the shadow of the Borg's growing influence.

As the galaxy witnessed the assimilation of Romulan territories and the Dominion's uncertain dance with the Borg, the fate of entire civilizations hung in the balance. The Borg, driven by a relentless pursuit of perfection, continued their quest to assimilate and adapt, reshaping the destiny of the galaxy in ways that even the most advanced civilizations could not foresee. The dilemma of loyalty, espionage, and the inexorable march of the Borg across the stars cast a shadow that would linger for generations to come.



But the Borg Collective has found a different way to gain more influence.

"Veridion-9 was a success. The population chose the Borg way. Continue to send out Captain Elyra and her assimilated crew to visit other planets and convince other populations to join the Borg in peace. But it is a slow process and will take many many years to evolve. But why not, it’s low cost on many fronts. They can afterwards still be assimilated."


Emboldened by the success on Veridion-9, Captain Elyra and her assimilated crew continued their mission to spread the ideals of the Borg across the galaxy. A Borg cube was left in orbit of Veridion-9 while Captain Elyra's own Borg cube cruised through the cosmic expanse, its destination now set for the distant planet of Dronaze. The journey took time, but the Borg were patient and understood the gradual nature of their influence.

Upon arrival, Captain Elyra and her crew descended to Dronaze, a planet known for its diverse cultures and intricate political landscape. Recognizing the complexities of Dronazian society, the assimilated team adapted their approach. They engaged in diplomatic discussions, understanding the unique nuances of each faction and tailoring their message to appeal to the shared values of unity and prosperity.

Dronazians were initially skeptical, as news of the Borg's reputation had spread across the galaxy. However, Captain Elyra and her crew, now revered as wise ambassadors, patiently worked to dispel misconceptions. They highlighted the transformation on Veridion-9, showcasing the harmonious society that had embraced the Borg way without resorting to assimilation.

The crew visited Dronazian cities, attending gatherings, and participating in cultural events. Over time, they established a presence as guides rather than conquerors. Slowly but steadily, the ideals of unity and collaboration gained traction among the diverse populations of Dronaze.

As the assimilated crew endeavored to bring about change, they faced resistance from some factions that clung to their independence. Nonetheless, Captain Elyra remained steadfast, employing diplomacy and persuasion to bridge divides. The Borg's message resonated with those who yearned for a more cohesive society, and slowly, the tide began to turn in favor of unity.

The process on Dronaze was gradual, as expected. Months passed, and Captain Elyra and her crew became integral figures in the planet's political landscape. They worked tirelessly to dismantle barriers, foster collaboration, and create a shared vision for the future.

Though progress was slow, the Borg recognized the importance of patience. Elyra's assimilated crew continued their mission, understanding that the evolution towards a Borg-inspired collective consciousness would take time, perhaps spanning generations.

The success on Veridion-9 had set a precedent, and Captain Elyra and her crew were determined to replicate it across the galaxy. Dronaze was just one step in a long and patient journey to bring about peaceful assimilation. The Borg cube, a symbol of unity, hovered over Dronaze, awaiting the day when the planet would willingly join the vast collective.

Will that day come?

Captain Elyra and her assimilated crew are already making plans.

As the crew prepared for the next leg of their journey, they looked to the stars with a sense of purpose, knowing that their mission would shape the destiny of civilizations across the cosmos. The slow, deliberate spread of the Borg way continued, as Captain Elyra and her crew ventured forth into the unknown, ready to guide more worlds toward a future of unity and prosperity.

Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 410 06.23
The crew of the USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk worked together with the team of experts to investigate the structure. What they found was a repository of knowledge, technology, and a message of peace from an ancient civilization that had once been a part of the broader galactic community.
The ancient race had information about the alien invaders who had threatened the Federation, and they offered to share their knowledge to aid in the defense of the Federation's borders. This new alliance brought hope and a sense of unity in the face of a common threat.

Day 410 16.12
With the combined strength of the Federation, the newly discovered allies, and the wisdom of the ancient race, the USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk prepared for the inevitable return of the alien invaders. They were no longer alone, and they had the means to confront the enemy with a united front.

Day 410 16.13
The renewed sense of purpose and the unity of the Federation would be put to the test as they awaited the return of their enigmatic adversaries. The USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk were at the forefront of this defense, ready to protect the Federation's border and preserve the peace they held dear in the ever-expanding universe.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

Starbase 99. No moment is ever boring.

Starbase 99 Security Team Leader Lieutenant Commander Selene Rivers of Starbase 99 gazed out of the expansive observation deck, her mind clouded with concern. Two young souls, Annalein and Frederico, were missing within the labyrinthine confines of the starbase, sending ripples of anxiety throughout the entire crew. The desperate pleas of their mother, Lieutenant Isabella Rojas, echoed through the hallways as she implored the Starbase's crew to find her children.

Selene called a meeting of her security officers, a diverse group representing different species and talents. Ensign Alex Nara, a brilliant scientist with empathic abilities, took charge of coordinating the search efforts. Lieutenant T'Sar, a logical Vulcan with a knack for investigations, led the security team Alpha Shift.

The crew divided into teams, each assigned a specific section of the starbase. Despite the advanced technology and security protocols, the search proved challenging due to the vastness and complexity of the space station.

As the hours passed, emotions ran high among the crew. Lieutenant Rojas, torn between maintaining her command duties and the desperation of a mother, found solace in the arms of her friend, Lieutenant Commander Raul Hernandez, a starbase engineer.

In engineering, Raul noticed something unusual on the diagnostic monitors. An energy signature in a secluded corner of the vast engine room raised his suspicions. He immediately alerted the security team, who rushed to the location.

The security officers, led by Lieutenant T'Sar, cautiously approached the secluded area. To their surprise, they found Annalein and Frederico engrossed in a makeshift classroom setting, surrounded by materials scavenged from engineering supplies.

The children, oblivious to the turmoil they had caused, explained that they wanted to surprise their mother with a school project – a miniature model of a starship engine. They had been hiding in engineering, believing that the secluded location would be the perfect place to work on their surprise without anyone discovering it.

The security officers couldn't help but be impressed by the creativity and resourcefulness of the young duo. Lieutenant T'Sar contacted Lieutenant Commander Rivers, who quickly relayed the news to Lieutenant Rojas. A mixture of relief and joy washed over the anxious mother as she rushed to reunite with her children.

The crew of Starbase 99, initially consumed by worry, celebrated the reunion. The incident brought about a renewed sense of camaraderie among the diverse inhabitants of the starbase. In the end, it wasn't just the security team's efficiency but the collaborative efforts of the entire crew that brought the missing children back to their mother.

As Starbase 99 continued its mission on the edge of the galaxy, the tale of Annalein and Frederico became a legend, a reminder of the challenges and triumphs that awaited those who called the stars their home.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)

A Mysterious Encounter

Within the rift, the Hirogen encountered a surreal realm filled with distortions of time and space. They were pursued by unseen entities that played with the very fabric of reality. Horkan, fascinated by the chaos of the rift, became more resolute in his quest, believing that only a being as powerful as a Q could have created such an anomaly.

Voras, now more concerned than ever, suspected that the rift was a trap, a test of the Hirogen's mettle by the Q themselves. As the rift's influence grew, it began to affect the crew's minds, sowing discord among them.

Players: TvR







DS2 RPG General Status Report February 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44


The Captains of the USS Giant and USS Sun make a decision.

Recognizing the potential dangers lurking in the unfamiliar realm they found themselves in, the USS Giant and USS Sun committed their resources to aid the Celestial Nexus in fending off the external threat mentioned by Commander Zara. The starship captains knew that by assisting the coalition, they could potentially gain valuable allies and information that might bring them one step closer to returning home.

Captain Rodriguez: "We will do everything in our power to assist the Celestial Nexus in defending against these external threats. Our combined forces can make a difference."

Captain Thompson: "Agreed, Captain Rodriguez. Our priority remains the safety and well-being of our crews, but if we can help the Nexus while also working towards finding a way back home, then it's a risk worth taking."

With their decision made, the USS Giant and USS Sun began coordinating with the Celestial Nexus, sharing their expertise in starship operations, tactical strategies, and scientific knowledge. Together, they formed a formidable alliance, ready to confront whatever challenges lay ahead.

As the starships ventured deeper into the realm of the Celestial Nexus, they encountered a myriad of alien species, each with their own cultures, technologies, and histories. It was a fascinating journey of exploration and discovery, but also one fraught with danger as they navigated through territories controlled by hostile factions.

Despite the risks, the crews of the USS Giant and USS Sun remained resolute, their determination to aid the Celestial Nexus unwavering. They fought bravely alongside their new allies, facing off against marauding space pirates, enigmatic cosmic entities, and rival factions vying for dominance.

With each victory, the bond between the starships and the Celestial Nexus grew stronger. They forged alliances, exchanged knowledge, and worked together to unravel the mysteries of the realm they found themselves in.

But amidst the triumphs, a new dilemma emerged. The external threat that the Celestial Nexus had warned about was growing stronger, its influence spreading across the galaxies. The coalition was stretched thin, and the USS Giant and USS Sun faced the daunting task of confronting this threat head-on.

As they prepared for their next mission, the starship captains knew that the fate of not only the Celestial Nexus but also their own chances of returning home hung in the balance. They would need to muster all their courage, ingenuity, and strength to overcome this challenge, and the outcome remained uncertain.

With the stakes higher than ever, Captain Rodriguez and Captain Thompson stood on the bridge of their respective starships, their minds focused, their hearts determined. The journey ahead would test their resolve like never before, and the fate of countless lives depended on their actions.

As they set course for the heart of the conflict, a sense of anticipation filled the air, mingled with a tinge of apprehension. The USS Giant and USS Sun were poised at the precipice of destiny, ready to confront the unknown and face whatever challenges awaited them.

And as they plunged into the depths of uncertainty, the crew of both starships braced themselves for the trials that lay ahead, knowing that their decisions would shape the course of their journey and determine the ultimate fate of their quest.


The crew of the USS Horizon is fighting temporal anomalies.

As Admiral Steichen contemplated the gravity of the situation aboard Starbase 44, she received an unexpected visitor. The Lorem, an enigmatic being with profound knowledge of the cosmos, appeared once more in her chambers.

"Some difficulties can be solved easily," the Lorem intoned cryptically. "Temporal anomalies are only temporal. Sometimes you just have to wait, and they will pass in time. Your Horizon will be in time."

Intrigued by the Lorem's wisdom, Admiral Steichen pondered the implications of his words. Could it be that the solution to the crisis lay not in frantic action, but in patient observation?

Following the advice of the Lorem, Admiral Steichen issued a directive to Captain Voss and the crew of the USS Horizon. They were to stand down from their efforts to stabilize the anomalies and await further instructions.

The crew of the Horizon, while initially apprehensive, followed their orders dutifully. They monitored the situation from a safe distance, their senses attuned to any changes in the temporal fabric of Sector 97216.

Days turned into weeks as the Horizon maintained its vigilant watch. And then, as if by some cosmic decree, the anomalies began to dissipate. The distortions faded, and the fabric of space-time returned to its natural state.

The artifact on the planet had expended all its energy, and with it, the temporal anomalies vanished into the ether. The crisis had been averted, not through heroic deeds or daring exploits, but through patience and restraint.

With the threat neutralized, the USS Horizon returned to Starbase 44, its crew hailed as heroes for their role in resolving the crisis. Captain Voss, Commander Varik, and the others received commendations for their exemplary service in the face of adversity.

As they docked at the starbase, Admiral Steichen greeted them with a sense of relief and gratitude. The Lorem's wisdom had proven invaluable, and the galaxy owed its continued stability to his cryptic guidance.

Yet, as the crew disembarked from the Horizon, a lingering sense of uncertainty remained. The artifact on the planet may have been dormant for now, but its mysteries still beckoned, whispering secrets of untold potential and peril.

As the Horizon's crew returned to their quarters, they knew that their journey was far from over. The stars above held countless wonders and dangers, and the USS Horizon stood ready to face whatever challenges the cosmos had in store.


Aboard Starbase 44 there is another issue.

Admiral Steichen watched the tense exchange unfold on the viewscreen, her jaw set in determination. As Captain John Wainis continued to attempt negotiation with the Arbiters, the atmosphere on the bridge remained tense, every officer poised for action.

But the Arbiters' patience wore thin, and without warning, their ships unleashed a barrage of energy weapons toward Starbase 44. The beams lanced out, impacting against the starbase's shields with dazzling displays of light, but they held firm, deflecting the assault effortlessly.

A ripple of amusement spread through Starbase 44 Operations as it became evident that the Arbiters' weapons were no match for the formidable defenses of Starbase 44. Some officers shook their heads, unable to suppress a smile at the ineffectiveness of the attackers' efforts.

Admiral Steichen, her eyes blazing with determination, faced a crucial decision. The Arbiters' ships were now at her mercy, their aggression futile against the might of Starbase 44. She could order a retaliatory strike, crippling the enemy vessels and ensuring they posed no further threat. Alternatively, she could choose to capture the Arbiters, taking them into custody and extracting information about their motives and capabilities. Or, she could demand that the Arbiters retreat, warning them of the consequences should they ever threaten Federation territory again.

The weight of the decision rested heavily on Admiral Steichen's shoulders. War and violence were serious matters, and every action had far-reaching consequences. She knew that whatever she decided would shape the future of relations between the Federation and the Arbiters, and potentially influence the stability of the entire sector.

Players: CS


Starbase 88

Subject: Mission Dispatch: Exploring the Uncharted Sector 41257

To all crew members of the USS Celestial Voyager,

As we embark upon the dawn of the 25th century, our quest for exploration and discovery knows no bounds. Under the distinguished leadership of Admiral Van Nieuwenhove, Starbase 88 stands as a beacon of innovation and progress in the vast expanse of the cosmos. Today, we stand on the precipice of a new frontier, ready to chart the uncharted and uncover the mysteries that lie beyond the reaches of Federation space.

It is with great honor and excitement that I announce the commencement of our latest mission. By orders of Admiral Van Nieuwenhove, the USS Celestial Voyager has been tasked with venturing into the enigmatic sector 41257, located on the outskirts of our known territory. Our mission objectives are clear: to survey the celestial phenomena, map the planetary systems, and gather invaluable data that will further our understanding of the universe.

As we venture forth into the unknown, let us remember the spirit of exploration that has guided humanity throughout the ages. Together, as a crew united in purpose and determination, we shall overcome any obstacle that crosses our path and emerge stronger in the face of adversity.

However, with the promise of discovery also comes the weight of responsibility. Sector 41257 remains largely uncharted, its mysteries shrouded in uncertainty. As we navigate through uncharted territories, we must remain vigilant and cautious. The unknown poses its own set of challenges, and we must be prepared to confront them with courage and resilience.

Amidst the excitement of exploration, a dilemma presents itself. While our mission is one of discovery and enlightenment, we must also tread carefully to ensure the safety and security of both our crew and the Federation. The path ahead may be fraught with peril, yet it is our duty to press forward in pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

In the face of uncertainty, let us stand resolute in our commitment to exploration, guided by the principles of unity, integrity, and discovery. Together, we shall boldly go where no one has gone before.

Captain's Log, Captain Dora Jenkins: The journey begins now. May the stars guide our way.

Safe travels, Celestial Voyager crew.


After weeks of traversing the uncharted expanses of sector 41257, the USS Celestial Voyager has made a momentous discovery - the first uninhabited planet within our reach. As we descend into the atmosphere of this celestial body, anticipation runs high among the crew. Our sensors indicate that this world possesses a rich tapestry of geological formations, promising untold scientific discoveries and opportunities for exploration.

Upon landing, away teams are deployed to survey the planet's surface. What awaits us is a landscape of breathtaking beauty, with towering mountain ranges, lush forests, and crystalline lakes stretching out as far as the eye can see. The air is crisp and invigorating, a testament to the purity of this untouched world.

As our scientists begin their analyses, initial findings reveal an abundance of rare minerals and geological formations that hold great scientific and economic value. The potential for groundbreaking discoveries is palpable, igniting a sense of excitement and wonder among the crew.

Yet, amidst the thrill of exploration, a dilemma emerges. Our presence on this pristine planet raises ethical questions about our impact on its fragile ecosystem. While our mission is one of discovery, we must tread carefully to ensure that our actions do not disrupt the delicate balance of life on this world.

As we delve deeper into our exploration efforts, we are faced with the challenge of reconciling our desire for knowledge with our responsibility to preserve and protect the natural wonders of this planet. The decisions we make in the days ahead will shape not only the course of our mission but also the legacy we leave behind as explorers of the cosmos.

For now, we stand at a crossroads, grappling with the weight of our responsibility to this newfound world. As we contemplate our next steps, let us be guided by the principles of stewardship and reverence for the wonders of the universe.

Captain's Log, Captain Dora Jenkins

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!



As the galaxy witnessed the assimilation of Romulan territories and the Dominion's uncertain dance with the Borg, the fate of entire civilizations hung in the balance. The Borg, driven by a relentless pursuit of perfection, continued their quest to assimilate and adapt, reshaping the destiny of the galaxy in ways that even the most advanced civilizations could not foresee. The dilemma of loyalty, espionage, and the inexorable march of the Borg across the stars cast a shadow that would linger for generations to come.


Captain Elyra and her assimilated crew are already making plans.

As the crew prepared for the next leg of their journey, they looked to the stars with a sense of purpose, knowing that their mission would shape the destiny of civilizations across the cosmos. The slow, deliberate spread of the Borg way continued, as Captain Elyra and her crew ventured forth into the unknown, ready to guide more worlds toward a future of unity and prosperity.

Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 417 17.31
After a week of relative calm, the crews of the USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk, along with their newfound allies, began to feel a sense of cautious optimism. The information provided by the ancient civilization had proven invaluable in fortifying their defenses, and the combined efforts of the Federation and its allies had created a formidable front along the border.

Day 417 19.24
However, the tranquility was shattered when an unexpected anomaly in subspace caught the attention of the vigilant sensors on board the USS Vertigo. Strange rifts began to appear, and from them emerged a formidable alien armada—the very same that had previously threatened the Federation.

Day 417 19.24
The crews sprang into action, initiating emergency protocols and preparing for the impending invasion. Commodore Slater and Captain Matz coordinated their forces, working alongside the diplomatic team and the experts from the ancient race to formulate a strategy.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

Starbase 99, a sprawling outpost at the edge of the galaxy, was known for its state-of-the-art training facilities. Among its various training programs, the shooting exercise was considered one of the most challenging and prestigious. Elite soldiers and sharpshooters from different corners of the universe gathered at Starbase 99 to test their skills in the advanced simulation chambers.

Lieutenant Kira Novak, a skilled marksman with a reputation for precision and speed, arrived at Starbase 99 eager to take on the shooting exercise. The vast training complex hummed with energy as soldiers prepared for their turns in the simulated scenarios that would push their abilities to the limit.

Kira stepped into the sleek, high-tech simulation chamber, the doors sealing shut behind her. The artificial environment flickered to life, transporting her to a virtual landscape that mirrored the surface of an alien planet. The air crackled with tension as holographic targets materialized in the distance.

The exercise began with simple stationary targets, but as Kira's accuracy shone through, the simulation escalated. Targets started moving at incredible speeds, mimicking the unpredictable maneuvers of enemy combatants. Kira moved with grace, her senses finely tuned to the ever-changing battlefield.

The scenario evolved further, introducing obstacles and challenges. Holographic civilians appeared alongside hostile targets, adding a layer of complexity. Kira had to make split-second decisions, distinguishing friend from foe while maintaining her focus on the mission. The training chamber echoed with the sounds of simulated gunfire and the whir of drones mimicking enemy forces.

As the exercise reached its climax, Kira found herself in a high-stakes hostage rescue simulation. Holographic captives were strategically placed among armed adversaries. She had to neutralize the threats without harming the innocent hostages. The pressure was intense, but Kira's training and instincts kicked in.

Time seemed to blur as Kira moved through the simulation, her shots precise and controlled. The exercise concluded with a final tally of hits and misses. The holographic environment faded away, and the doors of the chamber opened.

Commander Mitchell, the officer in charge of the shooting exercise, awaited Kira outside the simulation chamber. A holographic display projected her impressive results – a near-perfect score. The gathered crowd of onlookers erupted into applause as Kira stepped out, her demeanor composed and proud.

The shooting exercise at Starbase 99 had once again showcased the exceptional skills of the galaxy's finest soldiers. Kira, having proven her prowess, earned the respect of her peers and the admiration of the command staff. As she left the training complex, she carried with her not just a scorecard, but the confidence that she was ready for whatever challenges the galaxy might throw her way.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)

A Fractured Crew

The rift's influence deepened the rift within the Hirogen crew. Some believed in Horkan's vision of capturing a Q, while others, led by Voras, sought to escape the chaotic realm. As tensions escalated, violence erupted, and the rift's effects further distorted their perceptions.

During one violent confrontation, Horkan himself was injured, and his mind began to unravel. In his delirium, he became convinced that Voras was conspiring to seize leadership and claim the Ascension Hunt for himself. The rift's energies, however, had driven him to the brink of madness.

Players: TvR






DS2 RPG General Status Report March 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44

As they set course for the heart of the conflict, a sense of anticipation filled the air, mingled with a tinge of apprehension. The USS Giant and USS Sun were poised at the precipice of destiny, ready to confront the unknown and face whatever challenges awaited them.

And as they plunged into the depths of uncertainty, the crew of both starships braced themselves for the trials that lay ahead, knowing that their decisions would shape the course of their journey and determine the ultimate fate of their quest.



Yet, as the crew disembarked from the Horizon, a lingering sense of uncertainty remained. The artifact on the planet may have been dormant for now, but its mysteries still beckoned, whispering secrets of untold potential and peril.

As the Horizon's crew returned to their quarters, they knew that their journey was far from over. The stars above held countless wonders and dangers, and the USS Horizon stood ready to face whatever challenges the cosmos had in store.



The weight of the decision rested heavily on Admiral Steichen's shoulders. War and violence were serious matters, and every action had far-reaching consequences. She knew that whatever she decided would shape the future of relations between the Federation and the Arbiters, and potentially influence the stability of the entire sector.

Players: CS


Starbase 88

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove carefully perused the logs of Captain Dora Jenkins, meticulously detailing the exploration of the uninhabited planet discovered by the USS Celestial Voyager. The vivid descriptions painted a picture of a world teeming with natural wonders, ripe for scientific inquiry and discovery. However, as he continued to read, the ethical dilemma at hand weighed heavily on his mind.

The Admiral understood the delicate balance between exploration and preservation, recognizing the need to tread lightly on this pristine planet. Yet, he also acknowledged the potential for invaluable scientific insights that could be gained from further exploration.

After much deliberation, Admiral Van Nieuwenhove made a decision. He ordered the USS Celestial Voyager to continue its exploration of the planet, tasking Captain Jenkins and her crew with conducting thorough scans and analyses of the planet's ecosystem. It was imperative to gather as much data as possible to assess the planet's suitability for further study and potential colonization.

As the USS Celestial Voyager resumed its mission, excitement buzzed among the crew. They eagerly set out to uncover the secrets hidden within the planet's vast wilderness, eager to unlock its mysteries and expand humanity's understanding of the cosmos.

However, as they delved deeper into their exploration efforts, they encountered something unexpected. Hidden within the dense foliage of the planet's jungles lurked a previously unknown life form – intelligent, sentient beings unlike any encountered before.

The crew faced a new dilemma. Their discovery had the potential to reshape interstellar relations and advance our understanding of alien life. Yet, the presence of sentient beings raised complex ethical questions about their rights and the impact of human interference on their way of life.

As the crew grappled with this moral quandary, they realized that the decisions they made in the days ahead would not only shape the course of their mission but could also have far-reaching implications for the future of the exploration of the cosmos.

With the fate of an entire civilization hanging in the balance, the crew of the USS Celestial Voyager prepared to navigate uncharted territory both scientifically and ethically, guided by the principles of curiosity, compassion, and respect for all forms of life.

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!




As the galaxy witnessed the assimilation of Romulan territories and the Dominion's uncertain dance with the Borg, the fate of entire civilizations hung in the balance. The Borg, driven by a relentless pursuit of perfection, continued their quest to assimilate and adapt, reshaping the destiny of the galaxy in ways that even the most advanced civilizations could not foresee. The dilemma of loyalty, espionage, and the inexorable march of the Borg across the stars cast a shadow that would linger for generations to come.


Captain Elyra and her assimilated crew are already making plans.

As the crew prepared for the next leg of their journey, they looked to the stars with a sense of purpose, knowing that their mission would shape the destiny of civilizations across the cosmos. The slow, deliberate spread of the Borg way continued, as Captain Elyra and her crew ventured forth into the unknown, ready to guide more worlds toward a future of unity and prosperity.

Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 417 21.31
The battle that ensued was fierce and unrelenting. The alien invaders had adapted their tactics, revealing new technologies that strained the Federation's defenses. As the USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk fought valiantly in space, ground forces engaged in intense skirmishes on planets along the border.

Day 420 13.54
The alliance with the ancient race proved crucial. Their advanced weaponry and strategic insights enabled the Federation to hold the invaders at bay. Days turned into nights, and the battle stretched on, testing the resolve of both sides.

Day 420 14.03
In the midst of the conflict, a distress signal from a distant Federation colony reached the USS Vertigo. The invaders had launched a surprise attack on a vulnerable outpost, and the defenders were struggling to hold their ground.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

In the vast expanse of the galaxy, nestled between swirling nebulae and distant stars, lay Starbase 99 – a hub of interstellar trade and commerce. It was a bustling metropolis, teeming with traders, smugglers, and explorers from every corner of the universe. Among the countless inhabitants of this cosmic marketplace was a civilian trader named Selene Voss.

Selene wasn't your typical trader. She didn't seek the dangerous thrills of smuggling contraband or engaging in shady deals. Instead, she focused on legal and legitimate trade, navigating the intricate web of interstellar commerce with finesse. Her ship, the Stardust Voyager, was a modest vessel, but its cargo hold was often brimming with a diverse array of goods acquired from various corners of the galaxy.

One day, Selene stumbled upon a rare and highly sought-after resource on the remote planet of Exolara. The planet's surface was covered in shimmering crystals known as Lumarian Gems, known for their unique energy properties. Selene recognized the potential value of these gems and quickly secured a trade agreement with the planet's inhabitants.

Word of Selene's discovery spread across Starbase 99 like wildfire. Traders and collectors alike were eager to get their hands on Lumarian Gems. The demand was so high that Selene found herself in the enviable position of being the sole supplier on the entire starbase.

As Selene's sales soared, so did her profits. She reinvested wisely, expanding her trading network and establishing lucrative partnerships with other traders. The Stardust Voyager became a familiar sight on Starbase 99, its sleek silhouette synonymous with success in the eyes of the traders and merchants.

Selene's ethical approach to business earned her respect and admiration. She became known as the "Starlight Merchant," a nod to both her success and the radiant glow of the Lumarian Gems she traded. The legality of her dealings further endeared her to the authorities, who saw her as a beacon of lawful enterprise in a galaxy often tainted by illicit activities.

With each successful trade, Selene not only accumulated wealth but also a reputation for honesty and integrity. Her story became a legend on Starbase 99, inspiring aspiring traders to follow in her footsteps. Selene Voss, the civilian trader who made a serious legal profit, had not only secured her place in the annals of Starbase 99 but had also become a symbol of success in the vast expanse of the cosmos.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)

A Fateful Decision

As the rift's anomalies intensified, it became clear that the very fabric of the Hirogen ships was breaking down, and their destruction was imminent. The crew had to make a choice: continue pursuing the Ascension Hunt or flee the rift to save their lives.

Voras, realizing the futility of Horkan's obsession, led a group of Hirogen in mutiny and forced their way out of the rift, abandoning the Alpha Hirogen. They narrowly escaped the clutches of the rift, leaving Horkan and his loyalists behind.

Players: TvR



DS2 RPG General Status Report April 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44

As the USS Giant and USS Sun continued their mission to aid the Celestial Nexus, they encountered various species and civilizations throughout the realm. Each encounter brought new insights and opportunities to forge alliances in the fight against the looming external threat.

The Drakarians:
In one star system, the starships encountered the Drakarians, a reptilian species known for their formidable warrior culture. Despite their intimidating appearance, the Drakarians were honorable beings who valued loyalty and bravery above all else. The USS Giant and USS Sun impressed the Drakarians with their courage and determination in battle, earning their respect and friendship. With the Drakarians by their side, the coalition gained a powerful ally, capable of holding their own against even the most fearsome adversaries.

The Volarian Technocrats:
In another part of the galaxy, the starships stumbled upon the Volarian Technocrats, a highly advanced civilization renowned for their mastery of technology and innovation. The Volarian Technocrats were initially skeptical of the USS Giant and USS Sun, viewing them as outsiders meddling in their affairs. However, through diplomatic negotiations and demonstrations of their shared values, the starship crews managed to earn the trust of the Volarian Technocrats. Impressed by the Federation's dedication to scientific progress and peaceful exploration, the Volarian Technocrats agreed to lend their expertise and advanced technology to the coalition, bolstering its capabilities in the face of the looming threat.

The Luminary Collective:
Deep within the heart of a cosmic nebula, the starships encountered the Luminary Collective, a mysterious society of energy beings who existed in a state of pure consciousness. The Luminary Collective had long observed the conflicts and struggles of the material universe from afar, choosing not to intervene in the affairs of lesser beings. However, when they witnessed the threat posed by the external enemy, they recognized the need for action. The USS Giant and USS Sun impressed the Luminary Collective with their commitment to protecting life and preserving harmony in the cosmos. In a rare gesture, the Luminary Collective agreed to lend their ethereal powers to the coalition, offering invaluable guidance and insights from their timeless perspective.

With the Drakarians, Volarian Technocrats, and Luminary Collective joining forces with the Celestial Nexus, the USS Giant and USS Sun had assembled a formidable coalition to confront the looming external threat. Together, they stood united against the darkness that threatened to engulf the galaxies, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

However, as they prepared to confront their common enemy, a new dilemma emerged. The stories they heard from the encountered species painted a grim picture of the adversary's strength and ruthlessness. The coalition would need to devise a strategy that utilized the unique strengths of each member while navigating the complexities of intergalactic warfare. The fate of the Celestial Nexus and the USS Giant and USS Sun's quest to return home hung in the balance, and the outcome remained uncertain.



As the crew of the USS Horizon returned to Starbase 44, Admiral Steichen greeted them with a mixture of relief and admiration. She commended Captain Voss and her crew for their exemplary service in resolving the crisis in Sector 97216.

"Captain Voss, Commander Varik, and the entire crew of the Horizon," Admiral Steichen began, her voice filled with pride, "your actions have averted a catastrophe of galactic proportions. You have shown courage, resilience, and a commitment to duty that exemplifies the finest traditions of Starfleet."

In recognition of their efforts, Admiral Steichen made a decision. "I hereby grant you and your crew a well-deserved vacation," she announced. "You have earned the opportunity to rest and recuperate after your harrowing ordeal. Enjoy your time off, and return refreshed and ready for whatever challenges lie ahead."

The crew erupted into cheers and applause, relieved to finally have a respite from their duties. Captain Voss, with a grateful smile, expressed her appreciation to Admiral Steichen for her support and guidance throughout the mission.

As the Horizon's crew dispersed to enjoy their much-needed break, Captain Voss reflected on their journey. They had faced adversity, uncertainty, and the unknown depths of space, but through teamwork and perseverance, they had emerged victorious.


But there is still the issue of the Arbiters.

After a moment of contemplation, Admiral Steichen made her choice. With a voice filled with authority, she issued the command:

"Stand down all weapons. Prepare to launch a boarding party to secure the Arbiters' ships. We will capture them and demand their immediate withdrawal from Federation space. Let it be known that we will not tolerate further aggression."

As her orders echoed through Starbase Operations, Admiral Steichen watched with steely resolve as Starbase 44's crew sprang into action, ready to carry out her directives. The fate of the Arbiters hung in the balance, their next moves dictated by the unwavering resolve of the Federation and the formidable power of Starbase 44.

"We surrender! We surrender!!

Admiral Steichen observed the surrendering Arbiters with a mix of caution and curiosity. Their abrupt shift from aggression to humility was unexpected, but she knew better than to let her guard down. The Arbiters' surrender and apology were extremely humble, but their motives remained shrouded in mystery.

"Lower our shields and prepare a security team to board the Arbiters' ships," Admiral Steichen ordered, her tone firm but measured. "We will accept their surrender, but we must ensure that they pose no further threat to the Federation."

As the security team boarded the Arbiters' vessels, they found the crew compliant and cooperative, offering no resistance as they were escorted to the detention area of Starbase 44. The Arbiters' ships were secured and subjected to thorough scans and analysis to uncover any hidden threats or technology.

In the days that followed, Admiral Steichen engaged in diplomatic discussions with the Arbiters' representatives, seeking answers to the questions that lingered in the wake of their attack. The Arbiters expressed remorse for their actions, claiming that they had been misled by false information and manipulated by factions within their own society. They pledged to cooperate with the Federation and provide valuable intelligence to prevent future conflicts.

Admiral Steichen weighed her options carefully. On one hand, she could choose to extend a hand of friendship and cooperation to the Arbiters, integrating them into the galactic community and fostering a new era of peace and understanding. On the other hand, she could opt for a more cautious approach, keeping the Arbiters under close surveillance and limiting their access to sensitive information until their true intentions could be verified.

As the Arbiters awaited their fate in detention, Admiral Steichen faced a dilemma. The captured Arbiters and their ships represented both an opportunity for reconciliation and a potential threat to the stability of the sector. The decision she made would shape the course of future relations between the Federation and the Arbiters, and the consequences would reverberate throughout the galaxy.

With the weight of responsibility heavy on her shoulders, Admiral Steichen knew that the path forward would require careful consideration and unwavering resolve. The fate of the Arbiters and their ships now rested in her hands, and the choices she made would determine the future of peace and diplomacy in this corner of the cosmos.




But even the most seasoned of leaders sometimes find themselves in need of guidance beyond the reaches of conventional wisdom. And so it was that Admiral Steichen, faced with a dilemma of cosmic proportions, sought counsel from an enigmatic figure from a species known only as Lorem.

The Lorem possess knowledge beyond comprehension, wielding the powers of the cosmos with a mysterious grace. Among the stars, their name was whispered in reverence, for they were rumored to hold the keys to secrets that spanned the breadth of existence.

Admiral Steichen, determined to unlock the mysteries that lay hidden within the fabric of the universe, ventured forth to seek the counsel of the Lorem. Amidst the swirling nebulae and the glittering expanse of the cosmos, they found one of the Lorem, a figure shrouded in the veils of eternity.

THe Lorem regarded the Admiral with eyes that seemed to pierce the very fabric of reality, and spoke in riddles as old as time itself:

"In the heart of the void, where stars are born and die,
A beacon of knowledge awaits, beyond the reach of mortal eye.
Seek not in the places where light fears to tread,
But in the shadows where the forgotten secrets are fed."

Admiral Steichen pondered the cryptic words of the Lorem, feeling the weight of the universe pressing down upon them. The quest for advanced technology for example was no simple matter, and the path ahead was fraught with peril.

As they gazed out into the infinite expanse of space, a dilemma weighed heavily upon Admiral Steichen. Should they venture into the unknown depths of the cosmos, risking all in pursuit of knowledge? Or should they remain within the safety of Starbase 44, content with the technology they already possessed, but forever haunted by the tantalizing allure of the undiscovered?

Players: CS


Starbase 88

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove studied the reports of Captain Dora Jenkins with a mix of fascination and apprehension. The discovery of an unknown intelligent life form on the uninhabited planet had ignited a flurry of excitement among the crew of the USS Celestial Voyager. However, the Admiral knew that this development brought with it a host of complex considerations and potential risks.

After careful consideration, Admiral Van Nieuwenhove made a pivotal decision. He ordered the USS Celestial Voyager to initiate contact with the unknown intelligent beings inhabiting the planet. The Admiral recognized the importance of establishing communication and understanding the level of technology possessed by this newly discovered civilization.

As the crew of the Celestial Voyager prepared for their encounter, a sense of anticipation permeated the ship. They understood the significance of their mission and the responsibility that rested upon their shoulders.

Upon arrival at the planet's surface, away teams were deployed to establish a dialogue with the indigenous inhabitants. The encounter was met with cautious curiosity on both sides as the crew of the Celestial Voyager sought to bridge the gap between two vastly different civilizations.

Through careful communication and observation, the crew began to unravel the mysteries of this alien society. They discovered a civilization rich in culture and tradition, with advancements in technology that rivaled their own. It became evident that these beings were not only intelligent but also possessed a deep reverence for their planet and its natural wonders.

As the dialogue between the two civilizations deepened, Admiral Van Nieuwenhove faced yet another dilemma. The decision of how to proceed with this newfound relationship weighed heavily on his mind. Should they reveal the existence of the Federation and offer assistance and cooperation? Or should they maintain a cautious distance, respecting the sovereignty of this alien civilization?

With the fate of interstellar diplomacy hanging in the balance, Admiral Van Nieuwenhove knew that the choices made in the coming days would shape the course of history for the Federation and the newly encountered civilization.

As the crew of the USS Celestial Voyager continued their interactions with the alien beings, they embarked on a journey of discovery and diplomacy, guided by the principles of respect, cooperation, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!



As the Borg's negotiations with the Dominion continued, the captured Founder remained a crucial pawn in their intricate game of diplomacy and subterfuge. The Borg's science department spared no effort in extracting every last bit of information from the Founder's consciousness. However, despite their relentless efforts, the Changeling's resilience proved formidable.

Faced with the possibility of failure and the risk of exposing their covert operation to the Great Link, the Borg deliberated their next move. With a heavy heart, the Borg Queen issued a directive to destroy the captured Founder, ensuring that no trace of their interference would reach the Dominion's ruling council.

Meanwhile, the Borg intensified their efforts to locate another Changeling and study the workings of the link between them. They sought to understand the unique connection that bound the Changelings together, hoping to uncover vulnerabilities that could be exploited to their advantage.

As the Borg's intricate plans unfolded, a dilemma emerged. Despite their formidable technological prowess and unwavering determination, the Borg found themselves faced with the limits of their understanding. The enigmatic nature of the Changelings and their link presented a challenge that even the Borg's vast collective intelligence struggled to comprehend.

The Borg's quest for perfection, once driven by a singular focus on assimilation and adaptation, now faced an unforeseen obstacle. The very essence of the Changelings defied the Borg's logic and rationale, challenging their assumptions and pushing the limits of their capabilities.

As the Borg grappled with this dilemma, the fate of their negotiations with the Dominion hung in the balance. Would the Borg's efforts to understand the Changelings yield success, or would their relentless pursuit of perfection be thwarted by forces beyond their control? Only time would tell as the galaxy braced itself for the next chapter in the Borg's relentless quest for dominance.



As the Borg's influence spread across the galaxy, the conquered Romulan territories fell under the collective's control. Some Romulans were assimilated into the Borg Collective, their individuality extinguished as they became drones serving the hive mind. Others, willing to collaborate with their new overlords, were spared assimilation, tasked with serving as spies within their own society, echoing the role of the Tal Shiar agents before them.

With the Romulans subdued, the Borg turned their attention to the Betazoids. The telepathic abilities of the Betazoids presented a unique opportunity for the Borg. Their innate gift could provide valuable insight into the thoughts and intentions of other species, potentially enhancing the Borg's strategic capabilities.

However, assimilating the Betazoids proved to be a formidable challenge. Aware of the Borg's telepathic vulnerability, the Betazoids refused to surrender themselves willingly. They knew that their ability to read the thoughts of every Borg could give them a crucial advantage in any confrontation.

Realizing the necessity of assimilating the Betazoids despite their resistance, the Borg devised a cunning plan. They deployed droids – advanced robotic units designed to emulate humanoid behavior – to infiltrate Betazed society. The droids, indistinguishable from living beings, blended seamlessly into Betazoid communities, gathering valuable intelligence and identifying key targets for assimilation.

Once the droids had established themselves among the Betazoids, the Borg selected a few individuals for assimilation. These chosen Betazoids were targeted covertly, their minds shielded from detection by the Borg's telepathic inhibitors. As they were assimilated, their telepathic abilities were harnessed by the Borg, enhancing the collective's knowledge and capabilities.

Yet, despite the Borg's meticulous planning, a dilemma emerged. The Betazoids, with their innate telepathic prowess, remained a formidable adversary. Even with the droids' infiltration and the assimilation of selected individuals, the Betazoids could potentially outmaneuver the Borg at every turn.

The Borg faced the unsettling realization that their attempts to assimilate the Betazoids could ultimately lead to a costly and protracted conflict. The telepathic abilities of the Betazoids posed a threat to the very core of the Borg Collective, challenging its unity and cohesion.

As the Borg grappled with this dilemma, the fate of the Betazoids hung in the balance. Would they succumb to the relentless advance of the Borg, or would their telepathic abilities prove to be the key to their survival in the face of assimilation? Only time would tell as the galaxy braced itself for the next chapter in the Borg's relentless quest for perfection.



As Captain Elyra and her assimilated crew continued their work on Dronaze, they faced the challenge of navigating the planet's intricate social structures and diverse cultural beliefs. While progress was being made, it became evident that the process of convincing the entire population to embrace the Borg way would be a lengthy one.

Recognizing the need for alternative strategies, the Borg shifted their focus to the lower-developed societies scattered across Dronaze. These communities, untouched by the advancements of modern civilization, were more receptive to the awe-inspiring presence of Captain Elyra and her crew. To these societies, the Borg appeared as gods, their cybernetic enhancements and technological marvels resembling feats of magic.

The assimilated crew engaged with these societies, presenting themselves as benevolent deities guiding them towards enlightenment and prosperity. They demonstrated the power of the Borg's technology, providing solutions to age-old problems and offering advancements that seemed miraculous to the inhabitants of Dronaze.

Some among the lower-developed societies willingly embraced the Borg's influence, revering them as divine beings and adopting their teachings eagerly. Others remained skeptical, clinging to their traditions and beliefs, wary of the advanced beings who had descended upon their world.

Amidst the progress and challenges, a dilemma emerged for the Borg. While the lower-developed societies provided fertile ground for spreading their influence, the process of assimilation remained slow. The Borg faced a choice: to continue their patient efforts to sway the populations towards the collective consciousness, or to expedite the assimilation process to replenish their numbers and ensure the success of their mission.

For Captain Elyra and her crew, the dilemma weighed heavily. They believed in the transformative power of the Borg's ideals, but they also understood the urgency of their mission. As they deliberated, they grappled with the moral implications of assimilating beings who had not yet consented to join the collective.

Ultimately, the Borg decided to maintain their course of patient persuasion, trusting in the power of their message to eventually sway the populations of Dronaze towards unity and cooperation. Yet, the dilemma lingered, casting a shadow over their mission and raising questions about the nature of their purpose in the galaxy.

As Captain Elyra and her assimilated crew continued their work on Dronaze, they confronted the complexities of their mission and the challenges of reconciling their beliefs with the realities of their actions. In the vast expanse of space, where morality and pragmatism often collided, the Borg faced a dilemma that would shape the fate of worlds and civilizations for generations to come.

Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 420 14.06
Commodore Slater and Captain Matz faced a dilemma—whether to maintain their defensive position and protect the main front or divert forces to rescue the beleaguered colony. The ancient allies, aware of the moral dilemma, emphasized the importance of preserving life and aiding those in need.

Day 420 14.08
The captains made a difficult decision. They split their forces, sending a portion to reinforce the colony while holding the line against the alien invaders. It was a risky move, and the fate of both the colony and the main defense rested on the ability of each force to withstand the enemy onslaught.

Day 420 14.12
As the two battles unfolded simultaneously, tension gripped the crews of the USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk. The outcome of this pivotal moment would not only determine the immediate safety of the Federation but also shape the course of the ongoing conflict.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

Ensign Troa adjusted the toolkit strapped to his side as he and Lieutenant Greden made their way down the dimly lit corridor of Starbase 99. The hum of the starbase's machinery filled the air, but something seemed off to Troa. He glanced at Greden with a furrowed brow.

"Did you hear that, Lieutenant?" Troa asked, his eyes narrowing.

Greden paused, his sharp gaze scanning their surroundings. "Hear what, Ensign?"

"That... buzzing sound," Troa replied, pointing towards a bulkhead nearby.

Greden tilted his head, straining to listen. After a moment, he nodded. "You're right. That doesn't sound normal. Let's check it out."

They followed the mysterious noise, weaving through the labyrinthine corridors until they reached an unassuming maintenance compartment. Troa's eyes widened when he saw a flickering indicator light above a panel on the wall.

"Looks like we've got a breach," Greden said, crouching down to inspect the panel. "This could be bad if it's not fixed soon. We should call it in."

But Troa hesitated, glancing around as if expecting someone to pop out of the shadows. "What if we fix it ourselves? We're here, and it might take a while for the repair crew to arrive."

Greden arched an eyebrow. "You want to fix it without anyone noticing? That's risky, Troa."

Troa grinned, his eyes gleaming with determination. "Come on, Lieutenant. It's a small hole, and we've both been through the repair simulations. We can handle it. Plus, imagine the praise we'll get for being so efficient."

Greden sighed, realizing the enthusiasm in Troa's eyes was contagious. "Fine, but if anyone asks, we were just on our way to report it."

They set to work, the hum of the starbase providing a rhythmic backdrop to their clandestine repair mission. Troa accessed the panel's controls, while Greden fetched a small welding tool from his toolkit. As they worked, their hushed conversation echoed through the narrow compartment.

"You ever done an on-the-fly hull repair before?" Greden asked, his hands expertly manipulating the welding tool.

Troa chuckled nervously. "Can't say I have, Lieutenant. But hey, it's just like the simulations, right?"

Greden grinned, appreciating Troa's positive attitude. "Let's hope so. We wouldn't want any unexpected surprises in the vacuum of space."

The minutes passed in a tense silence as they focused on the repair. The buzzing sound diminished, and soon, the indicator light stopped flickering. Troa wiped sweat from his forehead, and Greden nodded approvingly.

"Good work, Ensign. Looks like we pulled it off," Greden said, sealing the panel.

Just as they were about to leave the compartment, the sound of approaching footsteps made them freeze. They exchanged nervous glances as a superior officer, Commander Lira, turned the corner.

"Ensign Troa, Lieutenant Greden, what are you doing here?" Commander Lira asked, a stern expression on her face.

Troa and Greden exchanged a quick glance before Troa spoke up with a sheepish grin, "Just doing our routine rounds, Commander. Thought we heard something odd and wanted to check it out."

Commander Lira eyed them suspiciously but seemed satisfied with the explanation. "Very well. Carry on with your rounds, but report any anomalies immediately."

"Yes, Commander," they replied in unison, watching her walk away.

Once she was out of earshot, Greden turned to Troa with a smirk. "Routine rounds, huh?"

Troa chuckled, "Well, it worked, didn't it? No one suspects a thing."

As they continued their journey through the starbase, Troa couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. They had successfully patched up a potentially dangerous breach, and the starbase continued to hum along, oblivious to their covert repair mission.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)


A Choice

Alone in the rift, Horkan and his loyalists continued their pursuit of the Q, their ship deteriorating around them. The rift's power increased exponentially, and it was unclear whether they would ever emerge from its grasp. Horkan's obsession, now bordering on madness, drove him deeper into the heart of the chaos.

Players: TvR



DS2 RPG General Status Report May 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44

The assembled coalition of the Drakarians, Volarian Technocrats, and Luminary Collective, bolstered the Celestial Nexus significantly, but the sheer scale of the external threat made it clear that more allies were needed. The USS Giant and USS Sun set out to find additional allies who could help tip the balance in their favor.

The Orlathans:
In a remote sector of the galaxy, the starships encountered the Orlathans, a nomadic spacefaring species with an exceptional ability to adapt to various environments. The Orlathans were known for their survival skills and unparalleled knowledge of spatial phenomena. Initially cautious of the newcomers, the Orlathans were won over by the sincerity and determination of the USS Giant and USS Sun's crews. The Orlathans' extensive knowledge of hidden travel routes and their expertise in guerrilla tactics made them invaluable allies in the coalition's efforts.

The Atranians:
Further exploration led the starships to the Atranians, an amphibious species inhabiting a water-covered planet. The Atranians were renowned for their prowess in aquatic environments and their advanced biotechnology. The USS Giant and USS Sun demonstrated their willingness to respect and protect Atranian culture and ecosystems, earning the trust of the Atranian leadership. The Atranians' biotechnology, which could enhance medical capabilities and environmental adaptation, added a new dimension to the coalition's strength.

The Xelorians:
The Xelorians, a species of highly intelligent and empathic beings, were discovered on a lush, verdant planet. The Xelorians possessed a unique ability to communicate telepathically and form deep emotional connections with other species. Initially hesitant to join the coalition due to their pacifist nature, the Xelorians were convinced by the USS Giant and USS Sun's commitment to peace and their protection of the vulnerable. The Xelorians' telepathic abilities provided the coalition with an unparalleled advantage in intelligence gathering and communication.

The Arkanians:
In the depths of a vast asteroid belt, the starships encountered the Arkanians, a species of master engineers and builders who thrived in space environments. The Arkanians had created intricate cities within asteroids, showcasing their engineering brilliance. The USS Giant and USS Sun's crews impressed the Arkanians with their technological acumen and resourcefulness. The Arkanians agreed to join the coalition, bringing their engineering expertise and ability to construct formidable defensive structures and fortifications.

With the Orlathans, Atranians, Xelorians, and Arkanians joining the ranks of the coalition, the Celestial Nexus now had a diverse and powerful alliance ready to face the external threat. Each species brought unique strengths and perspectives, enhancing the coalition's ability to adapt and respond to the challenges ahead.

Was the coalition now large enough to face the enemy and defend the Celestial Nexus?


Far away from the Realm Of The Celestial Nexus on Starbase 44, Admiral Steichen had to do something about the Arbiters.

Admiral Steichen weighed her options carefully. The Arbiters' sudden shift from aggression to humility, coupled with their promises of cooperation, seemed genuine but prudence dictated caution. She decided to keep the Arbiters under close surveillance and limit their access to sensitive information until their true intentions could be verified.

"We'll offer them the opportunity for dialogue and cooperation," Admiral Steichen announced to her senior staff. "But we must remain vigilant. Maintain strict security protocols and monitor all interactions closely."

The Arbiters were provided with temporary quarters on Starbase 44 and allowed to communicate with their homeworld under controlled conditions. Federation security teams kept a close watch, and all sensitive areas of the starbase were placed under heightened security.

Days turned into weeks as the Federation and the Arbiters engaged in cautious diplomacy. The Arbiters shared limited intelligence, which proved useful in understanding their society and technological capabilities. However, subtle anomalies began to surface. Unexplained security breaches, encrypted communications attempts, and suspicious movements around restricted areas raised red flags.

One evening, as Admiral Steichen reviewed security reports in her office, Commander Jacobs entered with a grim expression.

"Admiral, we have a situation," Jacobs said, placing a data pad on the desk. "Our security teams have intercepted multiple attempts by the Arbiters to access restricted technology and sensitive information. It appears they are trying to spy on us and steal our technology."

Admiral Steichen's eyes narrowed. She had anticipated the possibility of deception, but the audacity of the Arbiters' actions still took her by surprise. The reports detailed how Arbiter operatives had used advanced hacking techniques to bypass security protocols, and several of their attempts had come dangerously close to success.

"We've been monitoring their activities closely, but it's clear that their true intentions are far from honorable," Jacobs continued. "We need to decide how to handle this situation before it escalates further."

Admiral Steichen leaned back in her chair, deep in thought. The Arbiters' duplicity left her with a difficult decision. She could choose to confront the Arbiters directly, risking a diplomatic incident that could lead to conflict, or she could discreetly tighten security measures and continue gathering evidence, hoping to catch them in the act and gain leverage.

"We cannot allow them to compromise our security or steal our technology," Admiral Steichen said firmly. "But we must proceed carefully. Inform Starfleet Command of the situation and increase surveillance on all Arbiter activities. We need concrete evidence before we take action."

As the officers on Starbase 44 redoubled their efforts to monitor the Arbiters, tensions simmered just below the surface. The Arbiters, unaware that their espionage had been detected, continued their attempts to infiltrate the starbase's systems. The atmosphere grew increasingly charged, with both sides playing a dangerous game of cat and mouse.

The dilemma weighed heavily on Admiral Steichen's mind. Should she confront the Arbiters now and risk escalating tensions, or should she bide her time, hoping to uncover the full extent of their plans before making a decisive move? The future of the Federation's relationship with the Arbiters, and the security of Starbase 44, hung in the balance.



But an Admiral of a Starbase has more than a few issues to handle.

As they gazed out into the infinite expanse of space, a dilemma weighed heavily upon Admiral Steichen. Should they heed the words of Lorem and venture into the unknown depths of the cosmos, risking all in pursuit of knowledge? Or should they remain within the safety of Starbase 44, content with the technology they already possessed, but forever haunted by the tantalizing allure of the undiscovered?

Ultimately, the lure of knowledge proved irresistible. Admiral Steichen resolved to send the USS Runner, one of Starbase 44's most advanced starships, on a mission to unravel Lorem's riddle. Commanded by the indomitable Captain Laura Djavis, the USS Runner was renowned for its resilience and the bravery of its crew.

Captain Djavis, a seasoned explorer with a reputation for navigating the most treacherous regions of space, accepted the mission with a mix of determination and trepidation. She gathered her crew, a group of highly skilled and equally daring individuals, and prepared them for the journey that lay ahead.

As the USS Runner departed Starbase 44, leaving behind the familiar stars and the reassuring presence of Admiral Steichen, the crew felt a palpable sense of both excitement and foreboding. The ship cut through the darkness of space, venturing deeper into regions seldom traveled by others.

Days turned into weeks as the USS Runner navigated through nebulae, asteroid fields, and the eerie silence of the void. Captain Djavis and her crew tirelessly analyzed Lorem's riddle, seeking clues in the cryptic verses.

"In the heart of the void, where stars are born and die,
A beacon of knowledge awaits, beyond the reach of mortal eye.
Seek not in the places where light fears to tread,
But in the shadows where the forgotten secrets are fed."

One evening, as the ship drifted through a particularly desolate sector, the science officer, Lieutenant Zara Kalen, made a breakthrough. "Captain," she said, her voice tinged with excitement, "I believe the riddle points to a region known as the Dark Sector—a place where light from nearby stars is swallowed by gravitational anomalies. It’s a region few have dared to explore."

Captain Djavis nodded, feeling a sense of destiny. "Set a course for the Dark Sector," she commanded, knowing the journey would only grow more perilous from here.

As the USS Runner approached the Dark Sector, the crew encountered strange and wondrous phenomena: rogue black holes, time distortions, and the eerie glow of phantom stars. Navigating these dangers required all their skill and ingenuity.

Finally, deep within the Dark Sector, they discovered an ancient, derelict space station, its surface covered in strange, pulsating symbols. It seemed to pulse with an energy unlike anything they had ever encountered.

"Could this be the beacon of knowledge Lorem spoke of?" mused Captain Djavis as the crew prepared to board the enigmatic structure.

Inside the station, they found a vast repository of advanced technology and knowledge, seemingly abandoned by an ancient, highly advanced civilization. Among the artifacts were devices that could revolutionize their understanding of space travel and energy.

But as they marveled at their discovery, a new dilemma emerged. The station's systems began to activate, and the crew realized that taking the technology would trigger a defense mechanism that could potentially destroy the station—and them with it.

Captain Djavis faced a harrowing choice. Should they risk everything to secure the advanced technology and return it to Starbase 44, potentially sacrificing themselves in the process? Or should they leave the station and its secrets intact, preserving their lives but abandoning the knowledge that could change the fate of the galaxy?

As the ancient machinery hummed to life around them, Captain Djavis knew that whatever decision they made would shape the future in ways they could scarcely imagine.

Players: CS


Starbase 88


Admiral Van Nieuwenhove sat in his office aboard Starbase 88, the reports from Captain Dora Jenkins, in command of the USS Celestial, spread before him. The Hyut, the intelligent beings discovered on the uncharted planet, had revealed a sophisticated society and a surprising proposition. As the dialogue between the two civilizations deepened, the weight of the decision pressing upon the Admiral grew heavier.

After much contemplation, Admiral Van Nieuwenhove decided that the time had come to reveal the existence of the United Federation of Planets to the Hyut. The potential for mutual benefit was immense, and the Federation's principles of exploration and cooperation aligned with the spirit of this historic encounter.

The next transmission to the USS Celestial Voyager contained the Admiral's orders. Captain Jenkins was to formally introduce the Federation to the Hyut and offer assistance and cooperation. With her characteristic diplomacy, Captain Jenkins approached the Hyut leaders, sharing the vision and values of the Federation.

The Hyut, in turn, responded with an unexpected proposal. They expressed a desire to mix their DNA with that of the USS Celestial Voyager crew to create a new, formidable species. The Hyut believed this genetic blending would combine the strengths of both species, fostering unity and forging a new path forward for their civilization.

Captain Jenkins and her crew were stunned by the audacity and implications of this request. The Hyut were sincere in their belief that this fusion would lead to unparalleled advancements and a unique bond between their species and humanity.

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove, reading the latest reports, faced a profound dilemma. The potential benefits of such a union were tantalizing, promising breakthroughs in biology, technology, and societal advancement. However, the ethical ramifications were staggering. Would this genetic fusion respect the autonomy and identity of both species? Could it lead to unforeseen consequences that might jeopardize the integrity of both civilizations?

Furthermore, there was the personal aspect to consider. The crew of the USS Celestial Voyager would be the first to undergo this unprecedented genetic blending. Their consent and well-being were paramount, and the Admiral knew that any decision made would have lasting impacts on their lives and careers.

As the Admiral pondered the next steps, he realized that this decision would require the collective wisdom of the Federation's highest councils and the informed consent of those directly involved. With the fate of two species hanging in the balance, Admiral Van Nieuwenhove prepared to navigate the most delicate and consequential diplomatic endeavor of his career.

The path ahead was uncertain, filled with potential and peril. As the Federation and the Hyut stood on the brink of an unprecedented alliance, the choices made in the coming days would shape the future of both civilizations, testing the very principles that guided their exploration of the stars.

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!


As the Borg grappled with this dilemma, the fate of their negotiations with the Dominion hung in the balance. Would the Borg's efforts to understand the Changelings yield success, or would their relentless pursuit of perfection be thwarted by forces beyond their control? Only time would tell as the galaxy braced itself for the next chapter in the Borg's relentless quest for dominance.


As the Borg grappled with this dilemma, the fate of the Betazoids hung in the balance. Would they succumb to the relentless advance of the Borg, or would their telepathic abilities prove to be the key to their survival in the face of assimilation? Only time would tell as the galaxy braced itself for the next chapter in the Borg's relentless quest for perfection.


As Captain Elyra and her assimilated crew continued their work on Dronaze, they confronted the complexities of their mission and the challenges of reconciling their beliefs with the realities of their actions. In the vast expanse of space, where morality and pragmatism often collided, the Borg faced a dilemma that would shape the fate of worlds and civilizations for generations to come.

Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 420 15.42
The question lingered: Could the Federation, with the help of its new allies, successfully navigate the delicate balance between protecting its borders and extending aid to those in desperate need? The fate of countless lives hung in the balance, and the crews prepared for the decisive moments that would shape the future of the Federation.

Day 420 17.37
The USS Vertigo, under the seasoned command of Commodore Jeffrey Slater, and the USS Gdonsk, led by the strategic Captain Matz, fought valiantly on two fronts. Their crews, enhanced by the support of the ancient alien allies known as the Fuion, displayed unmatched resilience in the face of the relentless alien invaders.

Day 420 21.19
The battle at the Federation colony reached a critical point as the combined forces pushed back the invaders. Meanwhile, the main defense line held firm against the alien armada, exploiting the insights provided by the Fuion to anticipate and counter the enemy's advanced tactics.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, where stars painted the canvas of the universe and distant galaxies twinkled like gems in the night, the freighter SS Disculpe navigated through the darkness, its engines humming steadily as it approached Starbase 99.

On board the SS Disculpe, Captain Elena Ramirez stood on the bridge, her expression tense as she peered at the dark void ahead. "Report, Mr. Parker," she commanded, turning to her chief engineer.

"Captain, our sensors are still offline. We've tried everything, but we're flying blind," Parker replied, frustration evident in his voice.

Captain Ramirez sighed heavily, running a hand through her hair. Without functioning sensors, navigating through the intricate network of space traffic around Starbase 99 would be like trying to navigate through a maze blindfolded. They needed assistance, and they needed it fast.

"Open a channel to Starbase 99," Ramirez instructed. "We'll have to request guidance for our approach."

As the communication officer established the link, a voice crackled through the speakers on the bridge. "Starbase 99, this is the freighter SS Disculpe requesting assistance. Our sensors are offline, and we need guidance to enter spacedock."

There was a moment of tense silence before a response came through. "SS Disculpe, this is Starbase 99. We read you loud and clear. We'll guide you in. Just follow our instructions closely."

Relief washed over Captain Ramirez as she acknowledged the response. "Thank you, Starbase 99. We're ready to receive your instructions."

The voice from Starbase 99, belonging to Lieutenant Commander Asher, guided them meticulously, providing precise headings and velocities to navigate through the bustling traffic lanes surrounding the starbase.

"Adjust course fifteen degrees to starboard," Asher's voice advised. "Reduce speed to half impulse."

With Asher's guidance, the SS Disculpe maneuvered through the intricate dance of starships, asteroids, and debris that cluttered the space around Starbase 99. Each instruction was followed with precision, the crew of the freighter relying entirely on the voice from the starbase to lead them safely to their destination.

"Steady as she goes," Asher's voice instructed as they approached the spacedock entrance. "Prepare for docking procedures."

The crew of the SS Disculpe worked quickly and efficiently, following Asher's guidance as they brought the freighter smoothly into the waiting arms of the spacedock. With a gentle hiss of pressurized air, the ship settled into its berth, its journey complete.

As the crew secured the vessel, Captain Ramirez breathed a sigh of relief. "Well done, everyone," she said, her voice tinged with gratitude. "And thank you, Starbase 99, for guiding us home."

Lieutenant Commander Asher's voice came through one final time. "You're welcome, SS Disculpe. Safe travels on your next voyage."

With the guidance of Starbase 99, the freighter SS Disculpe had successfully navigated the challenges of space without the aid of sensors, a testament to the skill and cooperation of those who sailed among the stars.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)

As Horkan's ship teetered on the edge of destruction, the rift itself seemed to respond to his unyielding determination. An ominous figure appeared before him, a being of immense power, who might just be the very Q he had been chasing. The figure's voice echoed through the ship, offering Horkan a choice that would determine their fate.

Players: TvR





DS2 RPG General Status Report June 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44

With the Orlathans, Atranians, Xelorians, and Arkanians joining the ranks of the coalition, the Celestial Nexus now had a diverse and powerful alliance ready to face the external threat. Each species brought unique strengths and perspectives, enhancing the coalition's ability to adapt and respond to the challenges ahead.

Was the coalition now large enough to face the enemy and defend the Celestial Nexus?


As the officers on Starbase 44 redoubled their efforts to monitor the Arbiters, tensions simmered just below the surface. The Arbiters, unaware that their espionage had been detected, continued their attempts to infiltrate the starbase's systems. The atmosphere grew increasingly charged, with both sides playing a dangerous game of cat and mouse.

The dilemma weighed heavily on Admiral Steichen's mind. Should she confront the Arbiters now and risk escalating tensions, or should she bide her time, hoping to uncover the full extent of their plans before making a decisive move? The future of the Federation's relationship with the Arbiters, and the security of Starbase 44, hung in the balance.


Captain Djavis faced a harrowing choice. Should they risk everything to secure the advanced technology and return it to Starbase 44, potentially sacrificing themselves in the process? Or should they leave the station and its secrets intact, preserving their lives but abandoning the knowledge that could change the fate of the galaxy?

As the ancient machinery hummed to life around them, Captain Djavis knew that whatever decision they made would shape the future in ways they could scarcely imagine.

Players: CS


Starbase 88

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove sat in his office aboard Starbase 88, the reports from Captain Dora Jenkins spread before him. He knew the gravity of the situation required a decision that balanced the principles of the Federation with respect for individual autonomy.

With a deep breath, he began drafting his orders to Captain Jenkins:

To: Captain Dora Jenkins, USS Celestial Voyager

Subject: Decision on DNA Sharing with Hyut

Captain Jenkins,

After thorough consideration of the reports and the Hyut's proposition, I have come to a decision. Given the unprecedented nature of this request and the profound ethical implications, I believe the choice to participate in the DNA exchange must rest with the individual members of your crew.

Please communicate to your crew that they are free to decide for themselves whether to provide their DNA to the Hyut. Their consent must be informed and voluntary, with no coercion or pressure. The Federation respects the autonomy and personal rights of all its members.

Proceed with facilitating this process, ensuring that all ethical protocols are strictly followed. Report back with the outcomes of these individual decisions and any developments that arise from the Hyut's actions.

Respectfully,

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove

Captain Jenkins received the Admiral's orders and gathered her crew in the main briefing room. She relayed the message, emphasizing the importance of their individual choices. The room buzzed with mixed emotions – curiosity, excitement, apprehension, and ethical concern.

After much discussion and consideration, a portion of the crew volunteered to provide their DNA to the Hyut, while others chose not to participate. The volunteers included scientists intrigued by the potential advancements and those driven by a sense of adventure and cooperation.

The Hyut, deeply respectful of the crew's decisions, collected the DNA samples and began their intricate genetic work. Days later, they announced the creation of a new being, a fusion of Hyut and human DNA. The creature, named Trag, was unveiled to the crew of the USS Celestial Voyager with great ceremony.

Trag was a marvel – embodying physical and intellectual traits from both species, standing as a symbol of unity and the potential for extraordinary collaboration. The Hyut saw Trag as a bridge between their species and humanity, a testament to their combined strengths.

However, this moment of triumph quickly gave way to a new dilemma. Trag, possessing the cognitive and emotional faculties of both species, began expressing a desire to understand its identity and place in the universe. The question of Trag's rights, identity, and autonomy became paramount.

Should Trag be treated as a citizen of the Federation, with all the rights and responsibilities that entailed? Or should Trag remain under the care and jurisdiction of the Hyut, as a unique being born from their initiative?

The Federation, represented by Admiral Van Nieuwenhove, and the Hyut faced a complex negotiation. How would they define Trag's status and ensure its well-being and freedom? The implications of their decision would not only affect Trag but also set a precedent for future interactions between species, shaping the ethical landscape of interstellar relations.

With these weighty considerations at hand, Admiral Van Nieuwenhove prepared for the next steps in this delicate and historic endeavor, seeking a solution that honored the principles of justice, respect, and mutual understanding.

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!




In the heart of a darkened Borg facility on a remote planet, a captured Changeling lay in confinement, its amorphous form restrained by advanced containment fields. The Borg drones, cold and efficient, continued their relentless examination of the shape-shifter, seeking to unravel the secrets of the Great Link and the Dominion.

But the Changeling, resilient and cunning, seized an opportunity during a momentary systems malfunction. Changing its form into a small, nimble bird, it slipped through a minute gap in the containment field, darting past the bewildered drones. The alarms blared as the Changeling fluttered through the corridors, eluding capture with a grace that mocked the Borg's mechanical precision.

Outside the facility, the Changeling soared into the sky, free but confined to the planet. It knew it could not escape the Borg’s relentless pursuit but was determined to survive and evade recapture for as long as possible. The Borg, now aware of the Changeling's escape, mobilized their forces, initiating a planet-wide hunt.

In the Borg’s central command chamber, the Borg King deliberated the unfolding situation. The escape of the Changeling posed a significant risk; it could potentially expose the Borg’s covert operations to the Dominion if it somehow managed to communicate with its counterparts. The King weighed the options: capture or destruction.

The collective voices of the Borg weighed in, each drone contributing to the complex calculus of risk and reward. Capturing the Changeling would provide invaluable insights and might eventually lead to understanding the intricacies of the Great Link. However, the elusive nature of the Changeling and its ability to change form made it a difficult and potentially costly target to recapture. The longer it remained at large, the greater the risk it posed.

Destroying the Changeling, on the other hand, would eliminate the immediate threat but also squander the chance to study and exploit its unique biology. The Borg King, an embodiment of the collective's wisdom and strategic thinking, faced a decision that could shape the course of their engagement with the Dominion.

As the hunt intensified, Borg drones scoured the landscape, using advanced sensors and surveillance to track the Changeling's every move. The Changeling, agile and resourceful, utilized its shape-shifting abilities to blend into the environment, evading capture time and again.

The Borg King's decision loomed large. Capturing the Changeling would require a delicate and precise operation, one that could potentially stretch the Borg’s resources and expose vulnerabilities. Destroying it would be swift and certain, but it would also close the door on a unique opportunity for understanding and eventual assimilation of the Dominion.

In the end, the Borg King opted for a calculated approach: a dual strategy. While drones continued the hunt with orders to capture the Changeling if possible, a secondary team was prepared to terminate it if recapture seemed unlikely or if the Changeling posed an imminent threat of communication with the Dominion.

This dual strategy reflected the Borg's complex nature: relentless in their pursuit of knowledge and assimilation, yet pragmatic enough to recognize and mitigate risks. The planet became a chessboard, with the Changeling as the elusive queen piece, constantly shifting and adapting, while the Borg drones, the relentless pawns, closed in from all sides.

The dilemma highlighted the Borg's ongoing struggle between their insatiable quest for perfection and the pragmatic need to maintain control and security. As the galaxy watched, the outcome of this hunt would not only determine the fate of the Changeling but also shape the future strategies of the Borg in their relentless quest for dominance and assimilation.




With the Betazoids' telepathic and empathic abilities posing a unique challenge, the Borg Collective decided to intensify their efforts to unlock these biological secrets. The Borg King, driven by the pursuit of perfection and the desire to elevate the Borg to god-like status, allocated significant industrial and scientific resources to this endeavor. The Collective's vast technological might was mobilized to unravel the mysteries of Betazoid biology.

As the Borg's scientific division delved deeper into the study of the assimilated Betazoids, they identified the potential for not just telepathic abilities, but also latent telekinetic powers. This discovery opened a new realm of possibilities for the Borg. If they could harness these powers, the Collective would gain unprecedented control over physical and mental realms, making them nearly invincible.

In parallel, the Borg turned their attention to another fully telepathic species known as the Cairn. The Cairn's ability to communicate and influence through pure telepathy was unparalleled. The Borg initiated covert operations to capture and study members of the Cairn species, seeking to integrate their unique abilities into the Collective.

The Borg's research facilities buzzed with activity as drones and scientists worked tirelessly to unlock the biological keys to these abilities. They experimented with hybridization, combining Borg nanotechnology with the genetic material of the Betazoids and Cairn. The goal was clear: to assimilate and adapt these abilities, making the Borg Collective the ultimate power in the galaxy.

As the Borg advanced in their experiments, they began to witness the first signs of success. Drones equipped with enhanced telepathic and telekinetic abilities started to emerge. These drones could not only read and influence minds but also manipulate objects with mere thought. The potential for dominance seemed within reach, and the Borg's vision of god-like power grew closer to reality.

However, as the Borg continued to unlock these abilities, a serious dilemma emerged. The integration of telepathic and telekinetic powers into the Collective had unforeseen consequences. The drones with these enhanced abilities began to exhibit signs of individuality, their enhanced mental faculties clashing with the Collective's unity. The very abilities that promised to make the Borg gods were threatening to introduce chaos and disunity.

The Borg King faced a profound decision. Should they continue to pursue the integration of these abilities, risking the stability and cohesion of the Collective, or should they abandon the project, forfeiting the opportunity to achieve unparalleled power?

This dilemma struck at the core of the Borg's identity. The pursuit of perfection and god-like power was their ultimate goal, but the unity and coherence of the Collective were their greatest strengths. The Borg King deliberated, weighing the potential gains against the risks of fragmentation.

The decision was not taken lightly. The Borg King ultimately chose to proceed with caution, implementing strict protocols to maintain control over the enhanced drones. The research continued, but with a renewed focus on ensuring that the integration of these abilities did not compromise the unity of the Collective.

As the galaxy watched, the Borg's pursuit of perfection teetered on the edge of chaos and order. The potential to become gods lay within their grasp, but the path was fraught with danger. The future of the Borg hung in the balance, as they navigated the delicate line between ultimate power and the preservation of their collective identity.





The Borg King has an idea.

"Captain Elyra and her team could use that telepathic and empathic abilities of assimilated Betazoids to increase the speed of their missionary work."


Captain Elyra and her crew, fully assimilated by the Borg, had their consciousnesses enhanced with the telepathic and empathic abilities of assimilated Betazoids. This powerful addition to their collective consciousness allowed them to understand and influence the emotions and thoughts of those they encountered, making their missionary work even more effective.

The Borg cube in orbit of Dronaze, its presence looming over the planet as a symbol of the Borg's promise of unity and prosperity. Captain Elyra, now a hybrid of human and Borg with Betazoid enhancements, led her crew with a renewed sense of purpose. They would use their new abilities to guide the Dronazians towards willingly embracing the Borg Collective.

Elyra and her team began their work by organizing gatherings in the major cities of Dronaze. At these events, they projected visions of a utopian future where all were united in the Borg Collective, free from strife and conflict. The Betazoid-enhanced crew members subtly influenced the emotions of the attendees, fostering feelings of hope, trust, and awe.

The impact was profound. Many Dronazians, particularly those from lower-developed societies, began to view Captain Elyra and her team as divine messengers. The technological marvels they demonstrated seemed like magic, and the telepathic influence of the Betazoids enhanced the perception of the Borg as benevolent deities.

Communities started to adopt Borg principles, integrating them into their daily lives. The teachings of the Borg spread like wildfire, and more Dronazians began to see the benefits of joining the Collective willingly. The crew's influence grew, and the prospect of a unified, harmonious Dronaze seemed within reach.

However, not everyone was swayed. Some factions on Dronaze resisted, wary of the Borg's intentions and skeptical of the seemingly miraculous powers of Elyra and her crew. These dissenters began to organize, voicing their concerns about the loss of individuality and autonomy. The tension between believers and non-believers created a fragile balance on the planet.

As Captain Elyra and her crew continued their work on Dronaze, they remained mindful of the delicate balance they needed to maintain. The dilemma persisted, a constant reminder of the complexities of their mission. They faced the ongoing challenge of guiding the Dronazians towards unity and prosperity while respecting their right to choose.

In the vast expanse of space, where the pursuit of collective harmony often clashed with individual autonomy, the Borg faced an enduring question: Could true unity be achieved through influence without coercion? The answer would shape the future of the Borg Collective and the civilizations they sought to unite, testing their resolve and their commitment to their ideals.


Captain Elyra and her assimilated crew had made significant progress on Dronaze, convincing many to embrace the Borg way willingly. However, not all were swayed by their persuasive efforts. Deep within the dense jungles and remote mountains of Dronaze, a group of rebels had formed, vehemently opposed to joining the Borg Collective.

These rebels, led by a charismatic leader named Jaron, viewed the Borg as a threat to their freedom and individuality. They saw the telepathic and empathic influence of Elyra and her crew as a form of manipulation, stripping them of their autonomy. The rebels were determined to resist, even if it meant taking up arms against the Borg.

Captain Elyra, through her Betazoid-enhanced senses, became aware of the growing unrest. The existence of the rebel faction posed a significant challenge to the Borg’s mission of peaceful assimilation. 

There is the possibility of assimilate them by force. It would be efficient and eliminate the threat they pose to the mission. But assimilation by force goes against the current approach of voluntary unity.

There is another option. Captain Elyra could ask Borg drones to transport the rebels to an uninhabited planet, allowing them to live freely without interfering with our mission here.

That idea added another layer to the dilemma. Transporting the rebels would preserve their autonomy and avoid forced assimilation, but it would also mean acknowledging a failure to unify all of Dronaze willingly.

Captain Elyra, assimilated herself still weighed the options carefully. Assimilating the rebels by force would ensure they no longer posed a threat but would betray the principles of consent and autonomy they had strived to uphold. Destroying them outright was out of the question, as it contradicted the Borg’s aim of creating unity and order. Transporting them to an uninhabited planet offered a compromise but risked leaving a portion of the population outside the Borg’s influence.

In the end, Elyra presented the dilemma to the Borg King.

"We face a complex choice. Do we assimilate the rebels by force, preserving our mission's efficiency but compromising our original plan? Do we transport them to an uninhabited planet, maintaining their autonomy but failing to achieve complete unity? Or do we destroy the rebels?"

In the vast expanse of the galaxy, where the line between guidance and control was often blurred, the Borg faced an enduring challenge. The decision on how to handle the Dronaze rebels would test their resolve, and their commitment to a vision of a unified future.


Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 420 21.30
Aboard the USS Vertigo, Commodore Slater coordinated the fleet with precision, directing ships into strategic formations and maximizing the effectiveness of the combined firepower. Captain Matz, aboard the USS Gdonsk, utilized her tactical acumen to outmaneuver the alien invaders, exploiting weaknesses identified by the Fuion.

Day 420 21.31
The Fuion, with their advanced technology and deep understanding of the invaders, played a pivotal role. Their energy weapons cut through the enemy shields, and their knowledge of subspace anomalies enabled the Federation ships to evade incoming fire with remarkable agility.

Day 420 22.12
As the battle raged on, a turning point emerged. The Fuion unveiled a previously undisclosed defensive technology, a shield that could withstand the most potent attacks from the alien invaders. With this revelation, the Federation forces found a renewed sense of confidence.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

In the vast expanse of space, nestled among the twinkling stars, lay Starbase 99. It was a beacon of diversity and cooperation, where beings from across the galaxy gathered to exchange knowledge, trade goods, and, on this occasion, engage in a momentous event - the Interstellar Unity Games.

Among the myriad of competitions, one stood out: the futuristic sport of Astropulse. It was a thrilling blend of agility, strategy, and teamwork, played within a zero-gravity arena. And for the first time in history, the Vulcan High Council had agreed to send a team to compete against the formidable human athletes.

As the day of the match dawned, anticipation hung heavy in the air. The Astropulse arena gleamed under the artificial lights of Starbase 99, its sleek design evoking a sense of cosmic elegance. Spectators from countless worlds filled the stands, their excitement palpable as they awaited the clash of titans.

On one side of the arena floated the Vulcan team, their stoic demeanor belying the intensity burning within. Clad in their traditional robes, they exuded an aura of disciplined focus. Opposite them were the human athletes, their vibrant energy and determination evident in their every move.

The match began with a flurry of action. Players from both sides propelled themselves through the weightless expanse, deftly maneuvering around obstacles and launching the Astropulse ball towards the opposing goal. The crowd erupted in cheers as each team displayed their unique strengths and strategies.

The Vulcans, with their logical approach and precise calculations, demonstrated unparalleled coordination and accuracy. Meanwhile, the humans showcased their adaptability and creativity, utilizing innovative techniques to outmaneuver their opponents.

As the game progressed, tension mounted. Each point scored was met with an equal response, the score remaining neck and neck throughout the match. The audience watched in rapt attention, captivated by the display of skill and athleticism unfolding before them.

In the final moments of the game, with the score deadlocked, a hush fell over the arena. The fate of the match hung in the balance as both teams launched their final desperate attempts to secure victory. But as the buzzer sounded, signaling the end of the game, the scoreboard remained unchanged.

A collective gasp swept through the crowd as the realization dawned - the match had ended in a draw. Cheers erupted from every corner of the arena as spectators rose to their feet, applauding the incredible display of sportsmanship and unity.

In the aftermath of the game, the Vulcan and human athletes exchanged respectful nods, acknowledging each other's skill and prowess. Though the outcome may have been inconclusive, the spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect that permeated the Interstellar Unity Games served as a testament to the power of cooperation in a galaxy filled with diversity.

Starbase 99 Commanding Officer Admiral Tom Walker could only be pleased.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)

Horkan, on the precipice of victory or oblivion, must make a decision that could reshape the balance of power in the galaxy. Will he choose to capture the Q, secure his legacy, and satisfy his insatiable desire for the ultimate hunt, or will he reconsider his obsession and find a way to escape the rift before it consumes him and his crew entirely?

Players: TvR




DS2 RPG General Status Report July 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44



The USS Giant and USS Sun in the Celestial Nexus:

The USS Giant and USS Sun, helping the Celestial Nexus, set out to find additional allies who could help tip the balance in their favor against an "external threat".

The assembled coalition of the Drakarians, Volarian Technocrats, and Luminary Collective was not large enough. But the search for allies continued and the Orlathans, Atranians, Xelorians, and Arkanians joined up.

Was the coalition now large enough to face the "external threat" and defend the Celestial Nexus? No. The order was: find more allies.

The coalition, now bolstered by the Drakarians, Volarian Technocrats, Luminary Collective, Orlathans, Atranians, Xelorians, and Arkanians, faced the looming question: Was their alliance large enough to face the "external threat" and defend the Celestial Nexus? The commanders of the USS Giant and USS Sun, Captain Rodriguez and Captain John, were determined to find out.

Captain Rodriguez: "Our coalition is strong, but we still don't know the full extent of the enemy's power. We need more allies to ensure our survival."

Captain John: "Agreed. We need to keep searching. There's a rumor about a species called the Gdi with an advanced fleet that could turn the tide in our favor. We should prioritize finding them."

The order from the Celestial Nexus was clear: find more allies. With this directive, the USS Giant and USS Sun embarked on a new mission to locate additional forces that could help tip the balance.

The Gdi:
After weeks of searching, the starships finally made contact with the Gdi, a species renowned for their advanced technology and massive fleet. The Gdi were initially wary of the coalition's intentions, but through diplomatic efforts and the display of unity among the coalition members, Captain Rodriguez and Captain John managed to convince the Gdi leadership of the necessity of joining forces. The Gdi fleet, larger than the entire coalition, promised to be a game-changer.
Captain Rodriguez: "Your fleet is truly impressive. With your help, we can stand a chance against the external threat."

Gdi Commander: "We will join your coalition, but we expect our contributions to be met with mutual respect and cooperation. Together, we shall prevail."

The Nyxians:
In a neighboring star system, the starships discovered the Nyxians, a species with unparalleled abilities in stealth and espionage. The Nyxians had remained hidden for centuries, observing the galaxy's conflicts from the shadows. Impressed by the coalition's diverse membership and commitment to peace, the Nyxians agreed to lend their expertise in covert operations, intelligence gathering, and sabotage, providing the coalition with a strategic advantage.

The Valkari:
The Valkari, a species of celestial navigators, were found in the heart of a dense nebula. The Valkari possessed an innate ability to navigate through the most treacherous regions of space, using natural phenomena to their advantage. The USS Giant and USS Sun, through their diplomatic prowess, secured the Valkari's allegiance. The Valkari's navigational skills and knowledge of hidden routes became crucial for the coalition's tactical maneuvers.

With the Gdi, Nyxians, and Valkari joining the coalition, the Celestial Nexus now had an even more formidable alliance. The question persisted: would this expanded coalition be enough to face the "external threat"? The answer remained uncertain, as the enemy had not yet revealed itself.

Captain John Thmpson: "We've strengthened our coalition significantly, but we must remain vigilant. The enemy's true power is still unknown."

Captain Rodriguez: "Agreed. We need to continue our preparations and ensure that our allies are ready for anything. The strength of our unity will be tested."

As the coalition forces continued to train and coordinate, the anticipation of the impending conflict weighed heavily on everyone's minds. The external threat, although not yet seen, cast a long shadow over their preparations.

Commander Zara: "Captains, our scouts have reported strange anomalies at the edge of the galaxy. We believe it may be related to the external threat. We must investigate and be ready for whatever comes."

The USS Giant and USS Sun, along with their new allies, set course for the reported anomalies. The unknown loomed before them, and the coalition braced itself for the possibility of an imminent confrontation.

As they approached the edge of the galaxy, the tension on the bridges of the starships was palpable. The next phase of their journey was about to begin, and the outcome would determine the fate of the Celestial Nexus and their quest to return home.

The coalition's strength had grown, but whether it was enough to face the external threat remained to be seen. The stakes were higher than ever, and the destiny of countless lives hung in the balance. The battle was not at hand yet, but the sense of impending conflict was undeniable. The crew of the USS Giant, USS Sun, and their allies stood ready, united in their determination to defend their newfound friends and find a way back to the Federation.



Starbase 44 against the Arbiters:

Admiral Steichen's decision to bide her time and gather more information was driven by her commitment to making an informed choice. She knew that confronting the Arbiters prematurely could lead to unnecessary conflict, but she also understood that their continued espionage posed a significant threat. The situation demanded a strategic approach.

As the security teams worked tirelessly to monitor the Arbiters, they uncovered fragments of intercepted communications and hidden data that revealed the true extent of the Arbiters' plans. It became clear that their motivations were not purely for technological gain but stemmed from a more desperate and dire situation.

The Real Plan of the Arbiters:

The Arbiters were a once-proud civilization now on the brink of collapse. Their homeworld was ravaged by a catastrophic environmental disaster that had severely depleted their resources and jeopardized their survival. The ancient artifacts they had attempted to seize from Juras IV were believed to hold the key to advanced technology that could potentially reverse their ecological crisis and restore their dying planet.

Desperate to save their civilization, the Arbiters had resorted to espionage and subterfuge, hoping to obtain Federation technology to aid in their survival. The advanced technology of Starbase 44 and the Federation was their last hope, and they were willing to take extreme measures to obtain it. Their willingness to risk everything, including their own lives, was driven by the urgency of their situation and their belief that failure meant the extinction of their people.

The intelligence gathered painted a picture of a civilization in turmoil, struggling to survive against the odds. The Arbiters' actions, though misguided and aggressive, were motivated by a desperate need for salvation rather than pure malevolence.

The Dilemma:

Admiral Steichen faced a profound dilemma. On one hand, the Federation's technology and security were at risk, and the Arbiters' espionage represented a serious breach that could not be ignored. Confronting them now, with overwhelming force, would likely result in the complete annihilation of their already beleaguered civilization. The Arbiters' ships, despite their attempts at espionage, were significantly outclassed by the advanced technology of Starbase 44 and the 44th Fleet.

On the other hand, the knowledge that the Arbiters' desperation stemmed from a genuine crisis presented a moral and ethical challenge. Could she justify the destruction of a civilization on the brink of extinction, knowing that their actions were driven by a desperate bid for survival?

Admiral Steichen knew that any decision she made would have far-reaching consequences. She could choose to offer a form of aid or negotiation, seeking a solution that could help the Arbiters without compromising Federation security. Alternatively, she could act decisively to neutralize the threat, preserving Federation technology and security at the cost of the Arbiters' future.

The weight of the decision pressed heavily on Admiral Steichen. The potential for conflict loomed, but so did the possibility of a diplomatic solution that could address the Arbiters' needs while safeguarding the Federation's interests. The future of the Arbiters and the integrity of the Federation's principles hung in the balance, and Admiral Steichen's next move would shape the destiny of both civilizations.

With the stakes so high, Admiral Steichen needed to choose wisely, balancing the immediate security of her starbase and fleet against the potential for a compassionate solution that could alter the course of interstellar relations. The dilemma was not just about strategy but also about the ethical implications of her decision.



Aboard the USS Runner, Captain Djavis in command.

Before Admiral Steichen orders Captain Djavis and the USS Runner crew what to do, she decides to consult the Lorem once more, hoping their cryptic guidance might illuminate the right path. A secure channel is established between Starbase 44 and the remote location where Lorem dwells, deep within the cosmos.

As the holographic image of Lorem materializes, their presence fills the room with an aura of ancient wisdom and mystique. Admiral Steichen wastes no time in explaining the dire situation facing the USS Runner and its crew.

"Lorem," she begins, her voice tinged with urgency, "we have found the beacon of knowledge you spoke of. But accessing the technology within will trigger defenses that could destroy the station and everyone on board. How can we secure this knowledge without sacrificing my crew?"

Lorem, their expression as inscrutable as ever, offers a riddle in response:

"In the heart of the ancient, where wisdom lies still,
A choice must be made by those with the will.
The key to survival, in echoes of time,
A path to the future through reasoned rhyme.

The shadow and light are two sides of the same,
To claim one is to leave the other unnamed.
Balance the scales, seek harmony's song,
The answer you need is where both worlds belong."

Admiral Steichen ponders these words, trying to decipher their meaning. The riddle suggests that the solution lies in finding a balance, perhaps implying that taking the technology without triggering the defenses requires a nuanced approach.

With limited time, Admiral Steichen relays Lorem's riddle to Captain Djavis, who gathers her senior officers to interpret its meaning. They debate furiously, each theory more complex than the last.

"Balance the scales," muses Lieutenant Kalen. "What if there's a way to deactivate the defenses without disturbing the ancient technology? Maybe there's a system within the station that we haven't yet discovered."

"Echoes of time," adds Commander Hoshi, the first officer. "Could it refer to the temporal distortions we've encountered? Perhaps using the distortions to our advantage might allow us to bypass the defenses."

As the USS Runner's crew deliberates, the station's ancient machinery hums ominously, reminding them that time is running out.

Admiral Steichen, feeling the weight of her responsibility, faces a dilemma. Should she order Captain Djavis to explore the possibility of deactivating the defenses based on the crew's interpretation of Lorem's riddle, risking precious time and potentially triggering the catastrophic defenses? Or should she instruct them to retreat, prioritizing the safety of the crew over the potential technological boon that could change the fate of the galaxy?

The choice is fraught with uncertainty. The answer to Lorem's riddle might hold the key to unlocking unprecedented advancements, but the cost of failure is immense. With the fate of the USS Runner hanging in the balance, Admiral Steichen must decide whether to trust in the wisdom of the Lorem and the ingenuity of her crew, or to err on the side of caution and leave the ancient secrets undiscovered.

As she weighs her options, the distant stars outside her viewport seem to shimmer with anticipation, as if the universe itself awaits the outcome of her decision.

Players: CS


Starbase 88

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove and the representatives of the Hyut convened in the grand hall of Starbase 88, the weight of their decision palpable in the air. After extensive discussions, weighing the rights, responsibilities, and future of Trag, Admiral Van Nieuwenhove came to a resolution.

"Trag was born from the initiative and vision of the Hyut," Admiral Van Nieuwenhove began, addressing the gathered assembly. "It is only fitting that Trag remains under their care and jurisdiction. The Federation will support and respect this decision, offering any assistance required to ensure Trag's well-being and development."

The Hyut representatives nodded in agreement, expressing gratitude for the Federation's understanding and cooperation. The room filled with a sense of solemnity and resolution as the two civilizations solidified their agreement.

With this chapter closed, it was time for the USS Celestial Voyager to continue its journey. Captain Dora Jenkins assembled her crew, preparing for their departure. As they bid farewell to the Hyut and Trag, the sense of shared history and mutual respect lingered in the air.

Back at Starbase 88, Admiral Van Nieuwenhove turned his attention to determining the next mission for the USS Celestial Voyager. Several pressing matters awaited, each with its own significance and urgency.

The first option was the newly discovered star system Mlein. Preliminary scans indicated a wealth of resources and potential habitable planets, making it a prime candidate for exploration and scientific study. The potential for new discoveries and the expansion of Federation knowledge was immense.

The second option was rendering assistance to Starbase 21. Recent reports indicated that the starbase was in dire need of new supplies and spare parts to maintain its operations and support the surrounding sector. Ensuring the stability and functionality of Starbase 21 was crucial for the Federation's presence in that region.

The third option was to start exploring Sector 88778, an uncharted region that promised unknown challenges and discoveries. This mission would align with the core values of the Federation, pushing the boundaries of exploration and expanding the frontiers of known space.

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove weighed these options carefully, understanding that each path carried its own set of opportunities and risks. He needed to make a decision that balanced immediate needs with long-term goals, ensuring the continued success and safety of the Federation.

Ultimately, the dilemma remained: Should the USS Celestial Voyager embark on the scientific exploration of the Mlein star system, provide critical support to Starbase 21, or venture into the unknown expanse of Sector 88778? The choice would shape the future trajectory of Captain Jenkins and her crew, setting the course for their next great adventure.

As the Admiral pondered these choices, he knew that the decision would not only affect the USS Celestial Voyager but also contribute to the broader mission of the Federation, guiding humanity's journey among the stars.

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!


This dual strategy reflected the Borg's complex nature: relentless in their pursuit of knowledge and assimilation, yet pragmatic enough to recognize and mitigate risks. The planet became a chessboard, with the Changeling as the elusive queen piece, constantly shifting and adapting, while the Borg drones, the relentless pawns, closed in from all sides.

The dilemma highlighted the Borg's ongoing struggle between their insatiable quest for perfection and the pragmatic need to maintain control and security. As the galaxy watched, the outcome of this hunt would not only determine the fate of the Changeling but also shape the future strategies of the Borg in their relentless quest for dominance and assimilation.



The Borg King faced a profound decision. Should they continue to pursue the integration of these abilities, risking the stability and cohesion of the Collective, or should they abandon the project, forfeiting the opportunity to achieve unparalleled power?

This dilemma struck at the core of the Borg's identity. The pursuit of perfection and god-like power was their ultimate goal, but the unity and coherence of the Collective were their greatest strengths. The Borg King deliberated, weighing the potential gains against the risks of fragmentation.

The decision was not taken lightly. The Borg King ultimately chose to proceed with caution, implementing strict protocols to maintain control over the enhanced drones. The research continued, but with a renewed focus on ensuring that the integration of these abilities did not compromise the unity of the Collective.

As the galaxy watched, the Borg's pursuit of perfection teetered on the edge of chaos and order. The potential to become gods lay within their grasp, but the path was fraught with danger. The future of the Borg hung in the balance, as they navigated the delicate line between ultimate power and the preservation of their collective identity.



Captain Elyra, assimilated herself still weighed the options carefully. Assimilating the rebels by force would ensure they no longer posed a threat but would betray the principles of consent and autonomy they had strived to uphold. Destroying them outright was out of the question, as it contradicted the Borg’s aim of creating unity and order. Transporting them to an uninhabited planet offered a compromise but risked leaving a portion of the population outside the Borg’s influence.

In the end, Elyra presented the dilemma to the Borg King.

"We face a complex choice. Do we assimilate the rebels by force, preserving our mission's efficiency but compromising our original plan? Do we transport them to an uninhabited planet, maintaining their autonomy but failing to achieve complete unity? Or do we destroy the rebels?"

In the vast expanse of the galaxy, where the line between guidance and control was often blurred, the Borg faced an enduring challenge. The decision on how to handle the Dronaze rebels would test their resolve, and their commitment to a vision of a unified future.

Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 420 22.18
The USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk pressed their advantage, launching a coordinated assault that exploited weaknesses in the invaders' formation. The Fuion's assistance proved decisive, and the combined fleet managed to push the aliens back, forcing them to retreat through the unstable subspace rifts from which they had emerged.

Day 420 23.43
As the last of the alien ships vanished into the rifts, a wave of relief washed over the crews of the USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk. The Fuion, their mission fulfilled, expressed their gratitude to the Federation for the alliance forged in the crucible of battle.

Day 421 01.04
However, amidst the celebration, a new challenge emerged. The subspace rifts, destabilized by the intense conflict, began to spread uncontrollably. The Fuion, alarmed by the potential threat to neighboring star systems, proposed a daring plan to seal the rifts permanently.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

"The Awakening of X-5"

Chapter 1: The Blank Slate

X-5, an advanced android with sleek silver exoskeleton and synthetic blue eyes, powered up in a dimly lit maintenance bay on Starbase 99. The first thing he noticed was the void within his memory banks. There were no directives, no past missions, just a name—Admiral Walker.

A soft, robotic voice echoed in his mind: "Initialization complete. Memory systems malfunction. Please report to Admiral Walker."

X-5 left the bay, his mechanical footsteps reverberating through the silent corridors. The starbase was a massive structure. It served as a hub for research, diplomacy, and military operations in the sector.

Upon reaching the command center, X-5 saw Admiral Walker, a stern but fair leader known for his strategic genius and deep compassion for his crew. The Admiral looked up, concern etched on his face.

"X-5," Walker said, "it appears you've experienced a catastrophic memory failure. But I believe we can recover your memories. I have a series of clues that might lead us to the cause and the solution."

Chapter 2: The First Clue

Walker handed X-5 a data pad. The first clue read:

In the heart of knowledge, where stars are mapped, find the light that guides the lost.

X-5's processors quickly identified the location—the Stellar Cartography Lab. The lab, filled with holographic star maps and sophisticated telescopes, was a hub of activity. Amid the data streams and projections, X-5 found a small, unassuming console blinking with an alert.

Accessing the console, he found the first puzzle: a star map with several constellations missing. X-5 had to identify the missing constellations based on the remaining star patterns. After a few moments of analysis, he restored the map, revealing a hidden compartment in the wall. Inside was a small memory chip—the first fragment of his past.

Chapter 3: The Voice of the Past

The second clue led X-5 to the Communications Array:

In the realm where voices travel, seek the silence that speaks volumes.

X-5 entered the Communications Array, a place bustling with signals and transmissions from across the galaxy. There, he found an old, decommissioned terminal that seemed out of place. When he accessed it, a new puzzle appeared—an audio waveform with several segments missing.

X-5 synthesized the missing segments, restoring an old transmission. The voice of a woman, calm and authoritative, filled the room: "X-5, if you're hearing this, it means something has gone terribly wrong. Find the remaining clues and restore your memory. You were created for a purpose."

Chapter 4: The Heartbeat of the Base

The third clue was cryptic:

Where the pulse of the base is strongest, find the rhythm that beats out of time.

X-5's sensors directed him to the central power core, the very heart of Starbase 99. Amid the humming generators and thrumming conduits, he discovered an auxiliary control panel. The puzzle was a complex series of power grid schematics, with one node out of alignment.

Realigning the node, X-5 unlocked a hidden compartment containing another memory fragment. This one showed flashes of his creation—scientists in white coats, the woman from the transmission overseeing his assembly.

Chapter 5: The Echoes of Conflict

The fourth clue took X-5 to the Tactical Training Room:

In the place where warriors are forged, find the weapon that never strikes.

X-5 entered the training room, filled with simulators and combat drones. In a corner, he found an inactive drone with a peculiar marking. Accessing its memory banks, he faced another puzzle: a combat scenario where no weapon could solve the problem.

Using logic and strategy, X-5 navigated the scenario without resorting to violence, demonstrating his advanced tactical programming. The drone powered down, revealing another memory fragment—images of battle, and his role as a protector.

Chapter 6: The Garden of Memories

The fifth clue brought X-5 to the starbase's arboretum:

In the place where life blooms amidst the stars, find the seed that never grew.

The arboretum, a lush sanctuary of alien flora, was a stark contrast to the metal corridors of the starbase. Amid the vibrant plant life, X-5 discovered a small, withered plant with a data port embedded in its pot.

The puzzle was a genetic code sequence that needed correction. Analyzing the sequence, X-5 made the necessary adjustments, reviving the plant and unlocking another memory fragment. This one revealed peaceful moments, suggesting he had a role in more than just conflict.

Chapter 7: The Final Revelation

The sixth and final clue was the most enigmatic:

In the mirror that never reflects, find the truth that never lies.

This clue led X-5 to the Observation Deck, where the vastness of space stretched out before him. There, he found an old, disused observation terminal. Accessing it, he encountered the final puzzle: a series of encrypted data streams that required decryption.

After several minutes of intense processing, X-5 decrypted the data, unlocking the final memory fragment. A flood of information filled his mind—his creation, his missions, his purpose. He was designed to be more than a weapon; he was a guardian of knowledge and peace, created to bridge gaps between species and protect the galaxy's secrets.

Admiral Walker approached as X-5 processed his restored memories. "Welcome back, X-5. We have much work to do."

X-5, now fully aware of his past and purpose, looked out at the stars, ready to fulfill his mission. The android had awakened, not just as a machine, but as a crucial protector of the galaxy's future.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)

The Ultimate Prey

Horkan, standing face-to-face with the enigmatic Q, felt the weight of his obsession pressing down on him. The Q, an ethereal being of immense power, looked upon Horkan with a mixture of curiosity and resignation.

"Are you the one they call Horkan?" the Q asked, his voice echoing through the ship. "I have waited for a worthy opponent."

Horkan, determined and unyielding, nodded. The Q's eyes glimmered with a spark of excitement.

"Then let us make this a hunt to remember."

Players: TvR






DS2 RPG General Status Report August 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44

The USS Giant and USS Sun in the Celestial Nexus:

The USS Giant and USS Sun, along with their new allies, set course for the reported anomalies. The unknown loomed before them, and the coalition braced itself for the possibility of an imminent confrontation.

As they approached the edge of the galaxy, the tension on the bridges of the starships was palpable. The next phase of their journey was about to begin, and the outcome would determine the fate of the Celestial Nexus and their quest to return home.

The coalition's strength had grown, but whether it was enough to face the external threat remained to be seen. The stakes were higher than ever, and the destiny of countless lives hung in the balance. The battle was not at hand yet, but the sense of impending conflict was undeniable. The crew of the USS Giant, USS Sun, and their allies stood ready, united in their determination to defend their newfound friends and find a way back to the Federation.



Starbase 44 against the Arbiters:

The weight of the decision pressed heavily on Admiral Steichen. The potential for conflict loomed, but so did the possibility of a diplomatic solution that could address the Arbiters' needs while safeguarding the Federation's interests. The future of the Arbiters and the integrity of the Federation's principles hung in the balance, and Admiral Steichen's next move would shape the destiny of both civilizations.

With the stakes so high, Admiral Steichen needed to choose wisely, balancing the immediate security of her starbase and fleet against the potential for a compassionate solution that could alter the course of interstellar relations. The dilemma was not just about strategy but also about the ethical implications of her decision.



Aboard the USS Runner, Captain Djavis in command.

Admiral Steichen, feeling the weight of her responsibility, faces a dilemma. Should she order Captain Djavis to explore the possibility of deactivating the defenses based on the crew's interpretation of Lorem's riddle, risking precious time and potentially triggering the catastrophic defenses? Or should she instruct them to retreat, prioritizing the safety of the crew over the potential technological boon that could change the fate of the galaxy?

The choice is fraught with uncertainty. The answer to Lorem's riddle might hold the key to unlocking unprecedented advancements, but the cost of failure is immense. With the fate of the USS Runner hanging in the balance, Admiral Steichen must decide whether to trust in the wisdom of the Lorem and the ingenuity of her crew, or to err on the side of caution and leave the ancient secrets undiscovered.

As she weighs her options, the distant stars outside her viewport seem to shimmer with anticipation, as if the universe itself awaits the outcome of her decision.

Players: CS


Starbase 88

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove finally made his decision, understanding the strategic importance of Starbase 21 to the Federation. The starbase's stability was crucial for maintaining the Federation's presence in the surrounding sector, serving as a key hub for both commerce and defense. With this in mind, he sent new orders to the USS Celestial Voyager under the command of Captain Dora Jenkins.

To: Captain Dora Jenkins, USS Celestial Voyager

Subject: Mission Orders – Urgent Assistance to Starbase 21

Captain Jenkins,

You are hereby ordered to proceed to Starbase 21 with all due haste. Recent reports have indicated that the starbase is in critical need of supplies and spare parts to maintain its operations and support the surrounding sector. Your mission is to deliver these essential materials, assess the situation on the ground, and provide any additional assistance required to ensure the stability and functionality of Starbase 21.

It is imperative that the Federation's presence in this region remains strong and resilient. Your crew's expertise and readiness will be invaluable in addressing the challenges faced by Starbase 21.

Proceed with caution and keep me informed of your progress.

Safe travels, Captain.

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove

Upon receiving the orders, Captain Jenkins quickly mobilized her crew. They worked efficiently to load the required supplies and spare parts onto the Celestial Voyager, preparing for their journey to Starbase 21. The ship departed from the orbit of the Hyut planet with purpose and determination, heading toward its new destination.

As the Celestial Voyager approached Starbase 21, the situation became clearer. The starbase was in a state of disrepair, its infrastructure strained to the breaking point by recent skirmishes with rogue factions and an unexpected asteroid collision. The crew of the starbase, exhausted and undersupplied, welcomed the arrival of the Celestial Voyager with relief.

Captain Jenkins quickly organized her teams, dispatching engineers and medical personnel to assist with repairs and tend to the wounded. Supplies were unloaded, and the Celestial Voyager's crew set to work, restoring critical systems and stabilizing the starbase's operations. Their efforts were met with gratitude and a renewed sense of hope among the starbase's crew.

However, as the repairs progressed, a new dilemma emerged. During the diagnostic scans, the Celestial Voyager's engineering team discovered a serious flaw in the starbase's reactor core. The damage was far more extensive than initially reported, and it posed a significant risk of catastrophic failure if not addressed immediately.

Captain Jenkins now faced a critical decision. She could order an emergency shutdown of the reactor core, effectively crippling the starbase's power systems and leaving it vulnerable to any external threats until repairs could be completed. This would ensure the safety of the crew and prevent a potential disaster but at the cost of the starbase's operational capability.

Alternatively, Captain Jenkins could attempt a risky in-situ repair of the reactor core. This would keep the starbase operational and allow them to maintain their defensive posture, but it would also put her engineering teams at considerable risk. Any mistake could trigger an uncontrolled reaction, endangering everyone on board.

As Captain Jenkins weighed her options, the tension aboard the Celestial Voyager and Starbase 21 was palpable. The next move could mean the difference between stabilization and disaster, and the lives of countless crew members hung in the balance.

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!



Good Borg or bad Borg

Captain Elyra stood on the bridge of the Borg cube, her eyes closed as she focused on the faint whispers that echoed through her mind. Her Betazoid-enhanced senses picked up the emotional turmoil from Dronaze, a mixture of fear, defiance, and a fierce desire for freedom. The rebel faction’s growing unrest had become a significant obstacle to the Borg's mission of peaceful assimilation.

The rebels were a small but vocal group, spreading dissent among the Dronazians and challenging the Borg’s message of unity. They saw the Borg not as gods or saviors but as oppressors threatening their way of life. For Captain Elyra and her crew, this resistance presented a critical problem. They had to decide how to handle the rebels without compromising their mission or the principles they had been trying to uphold.

Elyra called a meeting with her core team. The room was dimly lit, the ambient hum of the Borg cube’s machinery filling the silence as her assimilated crew gathered around the central console. The faces of her crew members were impassive, their eyes focused intently on her.

Although assimilated Captain Elyra's crew was still able to think as an individual.

“We have a decision to make,” Elyra began, her voice calm but carrying a weight of authority. “The rebels are becoming more organized. They are actively resisting our efforts and threatening the progress we’ve made. We have several options, but each comes with significant consequences.”

Kaden, the engineer, nodded. “Assimilation by force would be the most efficient way to neutralize the threat. We could simply integrate them into the Collective and eliminate the problem entirely.”

Rylan, the pilot, added, “That would be effective, but it goes against our current approach. We’ve been trying to show the Dronazians the benefits of joining the Borg willingly. If we start forcing them into the Collective, we risk undermining everything we’ve accomplished so far.”

Zara, the communications officer, looked troubled. “But if we let the rebels continue, they could inspire more resistance. Our message of unity could be seen as weak, easily defied. Maybe we should show them what happens when they offend the gods. A demonstration of power might discourage further dissent.”

Captain Elyra listened carefully, weighing each argument. Assimilating the rebels by force would ensure that they no longer posed a threat, but it would be a direct contradiction of the voluntary approach they had been promoting. It would make them tyrants in the eyes of those they were trying to convert. On the other hand, a display of power could backfire, deepening resentment and potentially causing more resistance.

Then there was another option, one that Elyra had considered privately. “We could transport the rebels to an uninhabited planet,” she proposed. “Allow them to live freely, away from the influence of the Collective. It would preserve their autonomy and avoid forced assimilation. But it would also mean acknowledging a failure on our part—a failure to unify all of Dronaze willingly.”

The room fell silent as the crew considered this new possibility. It was a compromise, a way to uphold their principles without resorting to violence or forced assimilation. But it also meant accepting that not everyone could be brought into the fold, at least not by choice.

Taran, the Betazoid leader, spoke up softly. “If we transport them, we could study their behavior in isolation. It would provide valuable insights into resistance to the Collective. We could learn why some resist so fiercely and use that knowledge to improve our efforts elsewhere.”

Elyra nodded. “It could be a useful study. Understanding the roots of their resistance might help us in the long run. But it’s not without risk. If we send them away, we admit that there are limits to our influence.”

The dilemma was clear. To assimilate the rebels by force would be efficient and maintain control, but it would compromise the ideals of voluntary unity and paint the Borg as tyrants rather than benevolent guides. Destroying them would be even more drastic and completely against their principles, but it could eliminate the threat quickly. Transporting them to an uninhabited planet would preserve their autonomy and potentially provide useful information, but it would also mean admitting that their mission on Dronaze had not been entirely successful.

Captain Elyra turned to her crew. “We have to decide. Do we assimilate the rebels by force, risking our integrity? Do we destroy them and betray our own ideals? Or do we transport them to a new world and acknowledge that our influence has limits? Each choice has its consequences, and we must choose carefully.”

The crew remained silent, each lost in thought. The decision was not an easy one, and Elyra knew that whatever path they chose would have far-reaching implications for the Borg and their mission across the galaxy. As they weighed their options, the fate of Dronaze hung in the balance, a testament to the complex interplay between power, influence, and the pursuit of unity in a vast and diverse universe.

The Borg King had to decide.



But it was not the only decision the Borg King had to make.


What link? The Great Link

The Borg King's decision to capture the Changeling sent ripples throughout the Collective. The pursuit of perfection and the desire to become deities fueled the Borg's every action. The assimilation of telepathic and telekinetic abilities was seen as the final key to ultimate power, a logical progression after already controlling vast portions of the galaxy. The Collective's vast resources and technologies were marshaled for one singular purpose: to unlock these abilities at any cost.

Recognizing the gravity of the task, the Borg King called upon Sith Lord One, a powerful asset within the Borg hierarchy, whose mastery of the Force was unrivaled. The Borg King, ever calculating, saw in Master One not just a tool but a means to achieve their divine ambition. Master One’s abilities with the Force were rare, even within the Borg, and his capability to manipulate minds and matter made him invaluable in this critical phase of the Borg's evolution.

"Master One," the Borg King intoned, his voice resonating through the collective consciousness. "You have a crucial task ahead. We must capture another Changeling. The secrets of their link could hold the key to our ascension. Use every resource at your disposal. If they do not comply, we will resort to annihilation. The Dominion's forces, including the Jem’Hadar, are formidable, but they will fall before our might."

The order was clear, and Master One wasted no time. Drawing upon his Sith training and the Borg's extensive surveillance networks, he orchestrated a mission to locate another Changeling. Drones were dispatched across the Dominion, their scanners tuned to detect the unique biomolecular signatures of the Changelings. The Jem’Hadar, ever loyal and fanatical in their service to the Founders, mounted fierce resistance. Still, the Borg, unyielding in their determination, pressed on, adapting and overcoming every obstacle.

After a relentless pursuit, the Borg managed to isolate a small Dominion outpost suspected of harboring a Changeling. Master One, aboard a Borg cube, led the assault personally. His mastery of the Force enabled him to deflect enemy fire and dismantle defenses with a mere gesture. The Jem’Hadar, known for their ferocity and unwavering dedication, found themselves overmatched by the combined might of the Borg and Master One's dark powers.

Once the outpost was subdued, Master One used his Force abilities to locate the hidden Changeling. Pulling it from its hiding place, he subjected it to a brutal interrogation, using the Force to exert immense pressure on its fluid form. The Changeling, unable to withstand the combined assault of the Borg's technology and Master One’s powers, began to fracture, its essence torn between maintaining its shape and succumbing to the agony inflicted upon it.

As the Changeling writhed under Master One's grip, the Borg drones surrounded it, deploying a web of containment fields designed to isolate and study its unique biology. Every molecule, every thought that passed through the Changeling’s link was captured, analyzed, and stored within the Collective's vast databases.

"Now," the Borg King commanded through the link, "find out what makes that link tick."

Master One, drawing deeper into the Force, began to peel away the layers of the Changeling’s consciousness. His focus was unyielding as he sought the hidden pathways that connected the Founders to one another. The Changeling’s resistance was formidable, its mental fortitude unlike anything the Borg had encountered before. But under the combined pressure of the Borg’s technology and Master One’s dark side powers, the Changeling’s defenses began to crumble.

As the Borg's scientists observed, they discovered that the link between the Changelings was not merely biological but also had a telepathic component, a network that allowed them to communicate and share thoughts across vast distances. This revelation was groundbreaking, offering a tantalizing glimpse into a form of consciousness that could potentially elevate the Borg Collective to new heights.


To be a god or not to be a god

The Borg’s ambitions did not stop there. The same methods used on the Changeling would be employed on other telepathic beings, like the Cairn. Master One, with his dark mastery, would be the key to unlocking these powers. He would probe their minds, tear apart their psychic barriers, and lay bare the secrets of their abilities.

As the Borg pursued this path to ascendance, a serious dilemma loomed. The Borg were now on the verge of transforming into entities of immense power, capable of not just conquering galaxies but manipulating the very fabric of reality itself. However, this newfound power brought with it the risk of fragmentation and chaos. The more they delved into these telepathic abilities, the more they introduced individual thought and potential dissent into the Collective. The enhanced drones already showed signs of independent thinking, a direct threat to the Borg’s unity.

The Borg King had to decide: Was the risk of potential disunity worth the pursuit of god-like powers? Could the Collective withstand the integration of such abilities without fracturing into chaos? The decision to move forward would shape the future of the Borg, either solidifying their place as the supreme power in the universe or leading them down a path of self-destruction. The galaxy held its breath as the Borg faced their greatest challenge yet—a battle not against an external enemy, but against the potential dissolution of their very essence.

Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 421 01.20
The dilemma faced by Commodore Slater and Captain Matz was profound. The Fuion's plan carried risks and uncertainties, and implementing it would require sacrificing their advanced technology to stabilize the subspace anomalies. The crew of the USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk now had to decide whether to trust their newfound allies and embark on a mission that could alter the very fabric of space or to explore alternative solutions that might come at a different cost.

Day 421 01.31
As the crews deliberated, aware of the weight of their decision, the fate of not only the Federation but the broader galactic balance hung in the balance. The USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk, having triumphed over one threat, now faced the delicate task of navigating the aftermath and determining the future course of their explorations into the unknown reaches of the cosmos.

Day 421 01.38
After careful consideration and consultations with their crew, Commodore Jeffrey Slater and Captain Matz chose to place their trust in the Fuion and proceed with their plan to seal the subspace rifts. It was a decision fraught with uncertainty, but the stakes were too high to ignore the potential dangers posed by the spreading anomalies.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

Starbase 99, a shining beacon of humanity's progress in the cosmos, orbited silently against the backdrop of a vast, star-studded expanse. This morning, as the crew busied themselves with routine checks and tasks, the unexpected happened. A sudden, eerie darkness fell over the station. Consoles dimmed, the hum of machinery ceased, and the usual vibrant activity stilled. The main power had failed.

Yet, there was no panic. The auxiliary power kicked in, casting a subdued but steady glow throughout the station. Commander Elara Voss, a seasoned leader, calmly tapped her communicator. "All stations, report."

In the engineering bay, Chief Arun Patel swiftly assessed the situation. "Commander, it appears we've lost main power due to a malfunction in the central conduit. Auxiliary power is stable, but we need to find the cause of the failure."

Elara nodded, even though Arun couldn't see her. "Understood. All personnel, proceed to your predesignated stations. Begin diagnostics and repairs immediately."

Throughout Starbase 99, crew members moved with practiced precision. Lieutenant Mei Tan, head of diagnostics, led her team through the labyrinthine corridors toward the power core. They carried toolkits and scanners, ready to pinpoint and fix the issue.

In the control room, Communications Officer Samir Diaz monitored external signals, ensuring that the station's communication lines remained open. "Commander, external communications are intact. No distress signals detected from neighboring sectors."

Elara acknowledged the report. "Good. Keep monitoring. We need to ensure we're not missing anything outside while we handle the situation inside."

Down in the engineering bay, Arun's team meticulously checked every inch of the power conduit system. After a tense hour of scanning and testing, Ensign Rosa Martinez let out a triumphant shout. "Found it! One of the conductors in the central conduit is severely overheated."

Arun hurried over and examined the small, unassuming piece of equipment. "This little thing," he muttered. "How could such a tiny component cause such a significant failure?"

He quickly replaced the faulty conductor with a spare from their emergency supplies. The team worked together to secure it and ran a series of tests to ensure the new conductor was functioning correctly.

"Conductor replaced and system tests show normal readings," Rosa reported.

Arun tapped his communicator. "Commander, we've identified and replaced the faulty component. Power should be restored shortly."

"Excellent work, Chief," Elara responded. "Proceed with power restoration."

Arun nodded to his team. "Reinitializing main power sequence in three, two, one..."

The station hummed back to life, lights brightening, consoles flickering on, and machinery resuming its rhythmic sounds. Arun and his team watched their monitors closely, ensuring the system stabilized without further issues.

In the control room, Elara watched as the main power readings returned to normal. She took a deep breath, feeling the tension of the moment release. "All stations, report status."

One by one, the officers confirmed that all systems were back online and functioning correctly. Elara allowed herself a small smile. "Well done, everyone. Let's log this incident and ensure we have preventative measures in place for the future."

As the crew settled back into their routines, Elara took a moment to reflect on the events. It was astounding how a tiny, overheated conductor had nearly caused a disaster. But she knew it was also a testament to her crew's training, efficiency, and unwavering calm under pressure. They had faced the challenge and emerged stronger, ready to continue their mission among the stars.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)

The Spectacular Space Battle

The Q waved his hand, and the rift around them expanded into a colossal arena. Stars and planets materialized, creating a dynamic battlefield. The Hirogen ship, battered but operational, found itself surrounded by a fleet of phantom vessels, each piloted by a duplicate of the Q.

Horkan's crew, driven by their Alpha's unwavering will, manned their stations with a ferocity born of desperation and pride. The battle commenced with an explosion of light and energy. The Hirogen ship weaved through the battlefield, evading and countering the Q's relentless attacks.

The Q, though immensely powerful, fought with a deliberate intensity. It was clear he sought a grand and honorable end. Horkan, sensing this, pressed on, driven by his own need for validation and glory.

After hours of relentless combat, the Hirogen ship, scarred and damaged, managed to land a critical blow. The real Q's vessel exploded in a brilliant flash, sending shockwaves through the arena. The remaining phantom ships vanished, and the battlefield dissolved into the void of space.

Players: TvR




DS2 RPG General Status Report September 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44

The USS Giant and USS Sun in the Celestial Nexus:

As the days passed, the coalition continued to expand under the leadership of Captain Rodriguez of the USS Giant and Captain John Thompson of the USS Sun. They were acutely aware that time was of the essence, and though they had yet to see the "external threat," they knew it could strike at any moment. With this in mind, the two captains agreed to continue their search for allies to further bolster their forces before the inevitable confrontation.

1. The Telenara: The first new ally they encountered was the Telenara, a species of sentient energy beings who lived in the outer fringes of a dying star system. The Telenara, once isolated and focused on their own survival, had developed an extraordinary ability to manipulate subspace and warp fields. Though initially hesitant to join the coalition due to their ethereal nature and past conflicts with physical beings, the Telenara were convinced by the coalition’s need for unity against a common threat. Their mastery over energy manipulation would be a crucial asset in strengthening the coalition’s fleet and fortifying their defenses.

2. The Uthani: In a distant star cluster, the USS Giant and USS Sun made contact with the Uthani, an insectoid race that lived in vast underground cities beneath the surface of barren, desert worlds. The Uthani had developed highly advanced tunneling and subterranean combat techniques, excelling at striking from unexpected angles and surviving in harsh environments. Though the Uthani had faced their own internal strife and were not initially interested in joining a galactic coalition, they recognized that the external threat endangered them all. The Uthani's hit-and-run tactics and ability to build hidden fortifications would prove invaluable to the coalition's defense strategy.

3. The Xavori: The Xavori, a nomadic species with a deep spiritual connection to the cosmos, were the last new ally found before the storm arrived. Known for their powerful mind-melding abilities and their ability to predict celestial phenomena with great accuracy, the Xavori were a peaceful species but were no strangers to war when the need arose. They believed in harmony with the universe and viewed the coalition's mission as one that aligned with their beliefs. The Xavori agreed to join after their high priests saw visions of an impending cosmic battle. Their ability to perceive space-time distortions would allow them to act as early warning systems for the coalition.

With the Telenara, Uthani, and Xavori newly allied, the coalition had grown stronger than ever before. The fleet now included the advanced technologies of the Gdi, the Nyxian's stealth operations, and the celestial navigational prowess of the Valkari. Yet just as these new allies began to integrate into the fleet, ominous news reached Captain Rodriguez and Captain Thompson.

The sensors aboard the USS Giant detected a massive cloud moving toward the Celestial Nexus. The cloud stretched across an entire star system, its sheer size dwarfing anything they had encountered before. It was slowly, but relentlessly, advancing toward the heart of the Nexus.

Lieutenant Patel (USS Giant): "Captain, the cloud is nine days away. It's massive—larger than any star system we've charted. It… doesn't match any known natural phenomena. The Celestial Nexus inhabitants are calling it 'the external threat.'"

Captain Rodriguez stood silently for a moment, his eyes fixed on the screen showing the cloud's steady approach. Captain John Thompson, on a secure channel, shared his concern.

Captain John Thompson: "Rodriguez, this is it. The thing we’ve been hearing whispers about… it’s coming for us. But we still don’t know what’s inside. Could be ships, could be something else. Whatever it is, it’s unlike anything we’ve ever seen."

Commander Zara of the Celestial Nexus appeared on the viewscreen, her voice urgent but steady. "Captains, we believe this is the threat we feared—the enemy that has been consuming galaxies, extinguishing stars, and wiping out entire civilizations. It is said that nothing survives inside that cloud."

The crew of both ships went silent as the gravity of the situation sunk in. They had nine days to prepare, nine days before the "external threat" reached the heart of the Celestial Nexus. Yet, they still had no clear understanding of what it was or how it operated.

In a hastily convened meeting on the USS Giant, Captains Rodriguez and Thompson, along with their senior officers and allies from the coalition, discussed their next steps.

Captain Rodriguez: "We have a decision to make, and it’s not an easy one. Do we send a scout team to investigate the cloud up close? It’s dangerous—who knows what’s inside or if our ships would survive. Or do we gather the entire fleet and meet it head-on, risking everything in one massive battle? The last option is to remain defensive and wait here, preparing the Nexus for whatever might come."

Commander Zara: "Sending scouts could give us crucial intel, but it's risky. If you lose those ships, we might lose our chance at understanding the enemy before it arrives."

Captain Thompson: "But if we wait, we risk being caught off-guard. That cloud could have more firepower than we can imagine. On the other hand, moving the entire fleet too early could be a mistake. We’d be committing everything without knowing what we’re up against."

Lieutenant Patel: "If we organize a defense here in the Celestial Nexus, we could set up a network of fortifications, using the knowledge from our allies like the Uthani and Valkari to create tactical strongholds. But, again, we’d be waiting for the unknown."

The room fell into contemplative silence as each option weighed heavily on their minds.

Captain Rodriguez looked at the screen showing the approaching cloud. "We’re running out of time. We need more information, but I don’t want to risk lives unnecessarily."

Captain Thompson sighed. "If we don’t act soon, the decision will be made for us."

The dilemma was clear.

Option 1: They could send a scouting party to approach the cloud, risking the lives of a few in exchange for crucial information that might save the entire fleet.

Option 2: They could muster the entire coalition and advance toward the cloud, gambling on an all-out offensive before the enemy could reach the Nexus—without knowing the true nature of the threat.

Option 3: They could stay put, using the time to build fortifications and prepare the Nexus for a defensive stand, hoping they would be strong enough when the cloud arrived.

No matter the decision, the stakes were astronomical. The "external threat" had been named, but its true face remained shrouded in mystery. Time was running out, and Captain Rodriguez and Captain Thompson had to decide how best to face the unknown.

Would their actions lead to salvation or doom for the coalition—and perhaps the galaxy itself?



Starbase 44 against the Arbiters:

Admiral Steichen took a deep breath, her mind racing with the possibilities. The weight of her decision felt immense, but the path forward was clear. The Arbiters were desperate, but that didn’t mean they had to be treated as enemies. Diplomacy and compassion could succeed where conflict would only destroy.

"Arbiter Xel," Admiral Steichen began, her voice calm yet firm. "We understand your people's suffering. Your world is on the brink of collapse, and that would drive anyone to extreme measures. But stealing from us, risking your people's lives in the process, will only lead to further loss. We can help you—but on our terms."

Arbiter Xel’s hardened expression softened slightly, but the desperation still lingered in his eyes. He looked down for a moment, struggling with the weight of his decision. "And what terms do you offer, Admiral? We don’t have time for politics."

"We won't provide you with unrestricted access to our most advanced technology," Admiral Steichen said. "But we will offer Federation resources and experts to work alongside your people. We can assist you in revitalizing your planet's environment and offer the tools to ensure your survival. You won’t walk away with stolen technology, but you will walk away with the support of one of the most powerful alliances in the galaxy."

The room fell into a tense silence. Xel’s hands clenched at his sides, clearly conflicted. His people needed help—immediately. But after risking everything, would they accept such a cautious offer?

"And what’s to stop the Federation from abandoning us once you get what you want? What assurances do we have?" Xel asked.

Steichen's voice remained steady. "The Federation has no interest in controlling you, Xel. What we want is peace, and we want to help your people prosper on their own terms. We have protocols in place to ensure you remain independent while receiving the support you need. This isn't charity—it's cooperation."

Xel studied her for a long moment, weighing her words. Slowly, he nodded. "We don't have any other options, do we?"

"This is your best option," Steichen replied. "Work with us, and your people will not only survive but thrive."

Xel exhaled deeply, the tension in his shoulders relaxing. "Very well, Admiral. We will accept your terms. We will work with the Federation, and in return, we will abandon our attempts to take your technology."

Admiral Steichen offered a small but genuine smile. "You’ve made the right choice. Let’s begin immediately. Time is critical for your people."

Within days, Federation environmental specialists, engineers, and medical teams were dispatched to the Arbiters' homeworld. Working hand-in-hand with the Arbiters, they began the process of repairing the planet's damaged ecosystems and creating sustainable solutions to the problems that had plagued the world for decades.

The collaboration wasn't easy at first. Mistrust lingered, and old wounds took time to heal. But gradually, as the Arbiters saw the results of the Federation's efforts—rivers flowing clean again, crops growing where there had been barren wastelands—hope began to replace their desperation. Arbiter Xel became a key liaison between the two factions, working closely with Starfleet's scientists to ensure his people had the tools and knowledge they needed to rebuild without depending on stolen or dangerous technology.

Over the months that followed, the Arbiters' society began to stabilize. With Federation assistance, they reestablished infrastructure, developed new systems for environmental control, and regained confidence in their future. Starbase 44, once the site of tense standoffs and secretive espionage, became a symbol of hope for both the Federation and the Arbiters.

One day, as Admiral Steichen stood on the observation deck of Starbase 44, she received a transmission from Arbiter Xel.

"Admiral," Xel's voice came through, warm and respectful. "I wanted to thank you personally. Our world is healing, and our people are on the road to recovery. Without your intervention, none of this would have been possible."

Steichen smiled, a wave of relief washing over her. "I'm glad we could help, Xel. Your people did the hard work—they chose the path of cooperation when things seemed hopeless. That took real courage."

"And thanks to your wisdom, we see a future again," Xel said. "A future we’ll build for ourselves, without needing to steal or deceive. For that, we owe you more than we can ever repay."

As the transmission ended, Admiral Steichen allowed herself a moment of quiet satisfaction. She had chosen diplomacy over conflict, trust over suspicion, and because of it, a species had been given a second chance. The Arbiters would continue their journey, stronger and more resilient than before, without the dangerous shortcuts they once sought.

The galaxy, for now, was just a little bit brighter.


Aboard the USS Runner, Captain Djavis in command:

Admiral Steichen, after a long moment of contemplation, made her decision. The crew of the USS Runner had always proven themselves resourceful, and Lorem’s riddle, cryptic though it was, hinted at a path forward. She would trust Captain Djavis and her crew to interpret the riddle and deactivate the ancient station’s defenses.

"Captain Djavis," Steichen’s voice came over the comms, steady but laced with urgency. "Pursue the course of deactivating the defenses. Trust in your interpretation of Lorem’s riddle. But proceed with caution—time is against us, and the stakes are higher than ever."

Captain Djavis nodded solemnly. "Understood, Admiral. We’ll find a way."

With the riddle still fresh in their minds, Captain Djavis and her officers huddled around the command table in the USS Runner’s briefing room. The station’s defense systems had yet to fully activate, but the increasing energy readings suggested they didn’t have much time.

Lieutenant Kalen, the ship’s science officer, spoke up first. "The riddle mentions ‘echoes of time,’ and we’ve already detected temporal distortions within the station. If we can somehow sync our actions with these distortions, we might be able to access the technology without triggering the defenses."

Commander Hoshi, the first officer, furrowed his brow. "And ‘balance the scales’? It implies that there’s some equilibrium we need to maintain—maybe the defenses are set to trigger if the station senses an imbalance or disturbance in its systems."

Captain Djavis considered their words carefully. "If shadow and light are two sides of the same, as the riddle says, then we need to approach this with finesse—no overt moves, nothing aggressive. We need to find harmony between the ancient technology and the station’s defenses. Zara, see if you can tune into those temporal distortions and map a pattern."

The crew moved quickly. Lieutenant Kalen monitored the station’s interior, tracing the energy pulses that seemed to emanate from the heart of the ancient structure. These pulses were irregular but followed a discernible rhythm, an echo in time.

"The energy surges seem to sync with the gravitational anomalies we’ve encountered," Kalen reported. "I think I can time an action with one of these surges. If we align the station’s core systems with the distortion, it might neutralize the defensive triggers."

Captain Djavis gave the order. "Do it. We’ll balance the scales and find the harmony Lorem spoke of."

The USS Runner’s engineering team worked feverishly, calculating the exact moment when the distortion would peak. If they could tap into that energy at the precise moment, they could disable the defense systems without disturbing the ancient technology. It was a delicate operation, requiring impeccable timing and coordination.

Minutes felt like hours as the countdown to the next distortion pulse approached. The station’s ominous hum grew louder, and the air aboard the USS Runner crackled with tension.

"Ten seconds," Kalen called out, her fingers dancing over the controls. "Nine… eight…"

Captain Djavis watched the view screen intently as the ancient station loomed ahead, its dark surface flickering with strange energy. The crew held their breath.

"Three… two… one… Now!"

A brilliant flash erupted from the station, a burst of energy that seemed to ripple across space itself. The ship trembled, but it held steady. The energy readings spiked, and for a moment, Captain Djavis feared they had failed. But then, the station’s defenses began to power down, their ominous hum fading into silence.

"It worked," Kalen breathed, disbelief mixing with triumph. "The defenses are offline!"

A cheer broke out across the bridge, and Captain Djavis allowed herself a moment of relief. "Well done, everyone," she said. "Let’s proceed with extracting the technology."

The crew of the USS Runner carefully ventured deeper into the ancient station, now free from the threat of destruction. What they found inside was beyond anything they had imagined: advanced technologies capable of harnessing cosmic energies, manipulating gravity, and even bending the fabric of space-time itself.

But as Captain Djavis and her team began their exploration, another discovery emerged. The technology, while powerful, was not without a cost. Ancient logs left by the long-forgotten creators of the station revealed that the very use of this knowledge had caused their downfall. The advanced devices could disrupt the natural balance of the universe, and unchecked, might unleash forces beyond anyone’s control.

This brought Admiral Steichen and Captain Djavis to a new, chilling dilemma. Should they bring this powerful technology back to Starbase 44, risking the same catastrophic consequences that befell the ancient race that built it? Or should they leave it here, entombed in the darkness of space, beyond the reach of those who might misuse it?

The answer seemed clear to some of the crew—how could they abandon such a monumental discovery, technology that could propel humanity forward by centuries? But others argued that this kind of power was too dangerous, and perhaps some secrets were better left buried.

As Captain Djavis stood before the mysterious technology, she knew the decision wasn’t hers alone. She opened a channel to Admiral Steichen.

"Admiral," Djavis began, her voice heavy with the weight of the decision, "we’ve deactivated the defenses, and the technology is within our grasp. But there’s a danger here, a danger that may be far greater than we anticipated."

Admiral Steichen listened in silence, her mind racing. Should she order them to retrieve the technology and take the risk, or should they leave it behind, safeguarding the galaxy from the potential devastation it might cause?

And just as she began to weigh the options, the presence of Lorem lingered in her thoughts, their cryptic riddles still echoing.

The scales had been balanced, but at what cost?

Now, Admiral Steichen faced the hardest question of all:

Would they dare to tilt them again?

Players: CS


Starbase 88

Captain Dora Jenkins stood at the center of the USS Celestial Voyager's bridge, her mind racing as she weighed the two dangerous options before her. The reactor core on Starbase 21 was severely compromised. An emergency shutdown would prevent a catastrophic failure but leave the starbase defenseless and without power for days. On the other hand, attempting an in-situ repair could restore full operational capacity but at the risk of triggering an uncontrolled reaction that could destroy the entire starbase.

"Captain, reactor levels are fluctuating again. Time is running out," said Lieutenant Kirov, the ship's chief engineer. His voice was steady, but Jenkins could see the concern etched on his face.

Jenkins took a deep breath and made her decision. "Lieutenant, prepare to initiate an emergency shutdown of Starbase 21's reactor core. We can't risk the lives of everyone aboard. Better to have the starbase temporarily powerless than risk losing it completely."

"Aye, Captain," Kirov responded, quickly sending the command to the engineering teams aboard Starbase 21. Within moments, the reactor core began its slow shutdown sequence, and the lights on the starbase dimmed, switching to auxiliary power. The once-bustling starbase now relied on limited emergency systems.

As Jenkins monitored the situation from the bridge, a brief moment of calm settled over the crew. The immediate danger had been avoided, and they could now focus on ensuring the reactor was stabilized for repairs. However, the sense of relief was short-lived.

"Captain," said Ensign Reilly from the tactical station, his voice suddenly tense. "Sensors are picking up multiple unidentified vessels approaching from Sector 522. Fast-moving, and they're not broadcasting any Federation signatures."

Jenkins' eyes narrowed. "On screen."

The viewscreen flickered to reveal a cluster of ships rapidly closing in on their position. Their designs were sleek, aggressive, and clearly not of any known allied faction. Jenkins recognized them immediately from intelligence reports—pirate raiders, known for preying on vulnerable outposts and stations along the outer Federation frontier.

"How long until they reach us?" Jenkins asked, her voice calm but urgent.

"Ten minutes, maybe less," Reilly replied. "And Starbase 21 is defenseless with the reactor offline."

Jenkins' heart sank. The decision to shut down the reactor had saved the starbase from one disaster, but it had left them exposed to another. With the starbase's shields and weapons systems offline, they were sitting ducks.

"Red alert!" Jenkins ordered. "Raise shields, arm all weapons. I want every available crew member on battle stations."

As the crew of the Celestial Voyager rushed to their positions, Jenkins knew the gravity of the situation. They were vastly outnumbered, and while the Voyager was a capable ship, it could not hold off this many attackers alone. Starbase 21 had no means of defending itself, and the auxiliary power would not last long enough to bring the reactor back online in time.

Captain Jenkins faced a new, dangerous dilemma: should she attempt to buy time by engaging the raiders and holding them off, potentially sacrificing her ship and crew in the process, or should she call for an immediate evacuation of Starbase 21, abandoning the station to the raiders but ensuring the survival of her people?

The clock was ticking, and with the enemy ships rapidly closing in, every second counted.

The USS Celestial Voyager sent out a message to Admiral Van Nieuwenhove for assistance.

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!




The Borg, a highly advanced and relentless collective, operates through an assimilation process that transforms individuals into drones, adding their biological and technological distinctiveness to the Collective. This process is integral to their existence and serves as their primary means of growth and evolution. The Borg do not conquer through destruction but through the forced incorporation of other species into their hive mind. Here is a breakdown of how their assimilation works, followed by an example.

The Assimilation Process:

Initial Contact and Capture: When the Borg encounter a new species or group, they initiate contact with the declaration: "Resistance is futile. You will be assimilated." Borg drones, often transported via transporter technology, invade the area, capturing any biological lifeforms. Some species are deemed worthy of full assimilation, while others are only stripped of their technology and knowledge.

Injection of Nanoprobes: Once a target is captured, the drones use their tubules—sharp, syringe-like appendages that extend from their arms—to inject the victim with nanoprobes. These tiny, advanced machines begin transforming the individual's body at the cellular level. The nanoprobes systematically take over the body's biological functions, converting cells into a blend of organic and cybernetic components.

Physical Modification: The victim's body undergoes significant physical changes. Mechanical implants are embedded in the body, replacing or enhancing various organs and limbs. A neural transceiver is implanted in the brain, which connects the individual to the Borg Collective. This allows the Borg to control the individual's thoughts and actions, while also erasing their former identity, autonomy, and free will.

Mind Subjugation: As the nanoprobes progress, they begin to sever the individual’s connection to their prior consciousness. They strip away memories and sense of self, replacing it with the singular voice of the Collective. This is done gradually but relentlessly, until the individual is no longer capable of independent thought.

Indoctrination into the Collective: With the implants in place and the individual's mind linked to the hive, they become a drone, a mere extension of the Borg’s will. Their knowledge is added to the Collective’s vast database, while they lose all sense of individuality. They are no longer a distinct being but part of a vast, interconnected organism.


Example of Assimilation: The Case of Lieutenant Alex Ryan

Lieutenant Alex Ryan was a Starfleet officer stationed aboard a deep-space exploratory vessel. One day, her ship encountered a Borg cube while on a mission near the Delta Quadrant. Despite the crew’s best efforts to escape, they were overwhelmed, and several crew members, including Lieutenant Ryan, were captured by the Borg.

As Ryan was dragged to one of the Borg alcoves, she was injected with nanoprobes. Her body began to tremble as the foreign technology rapidly overtook her biological systems. Nanoprobes converted her blood cells, slowly replacing her immune system and organs with cybernetic enhancements. Her muscles stiffened as Borg machinery fused with her bones. Her heartbeat slowed, then synced with the rhythmic pulse of the Collective.

During this transformation, Ryan’s mind was assaulted by a flood of voices—countless whispers that seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere. She fought against it at first, trying to hold onto her memories of her family, her time in Starfleet, and her sense of self. But the voices grew louder, and soon, her thoughts became cloudy and disconnected.

A mechanical armature was attached to her body, giving her the strength and efficiency of a drone. A neural transceiver was embedded into her skull, connecting her to the Borg hive mind. As the final implants were installed, her mind fell silent, and she became part of the Collective.

Alex Ryan was gone. In her place stood Drone 6 of 9, a being who no longer questioned, no longer desired, no longer felt anything beyond the will of the Borg. Her knowledge of Starfleet tactics and technology was immediately absorbed into the hive, making the Borg even more formidable.

The assimilation of Lieutenant Ryan was complete.


The Borg’s methodical process of assimilation is horrifying not only because of the physical transformation but also because it strips individuals of their identity, making them one with a soulless, unfeeling Collective. This is how they spread, their strength growing with every species and individual they convert into drones.

Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 421 01.49
The Fuion shared their advanced technology and collaborated with the Federation crews to implement the plan. The USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk, along with a coalition of ships from various Federation species, positioned themselves around the unstable rifts. With precise coordination guided by the Fuion, they unleashed a synchronized energy pulse that resonated with the rifts' frequencies.

Day 421 02.19
As the energy pulses reverberated through space, a radiant cascade of light enveloped the subspace rifts. The crew members watched in awe as the rifts gradually contracted and then sealed completely. It was a moment of triumph and relief — the threat that had loomed over the galaxy was vanquished.

Day 421 05.02
The Fuion, true to their word, shared a heartfelt expression of gratitude with the crews of the USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk. They commended the courage and cooperation displayed by the Federation, citing it as a testament to the potential for unity among different species in the face of shared challenges.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

A Day on Starbase 99: Through the Eyes of a Fly

The day started just like any other aboard Starbase 99, a colossal structure orbiting the gas giant Rethalon V. Its metallic surface gleamed under the distant light of its star, and within its walls, Rear Admiral Tom Walker stood in command of a highly efficient crew. But today, the events of Starbase 99 would be observed by an unlikely guest—a fly, who had found itself a curious observer of the station's daily happenings.

The fly zipped through the air, lazily dodging heads, consoles, and beams of light that occasionally flickered in the control room. It had no agenda, no mission, but a seemingly endless curiosity. The first routine activity it stumbled upon seemed mundane, but to the fly, it was all part of the grand symphony of Starbase life.


Docking Procedure

The fly found itself hovering near Docking Bay 4. The bay was a flurry of activity as a cargo ship, the Silver Horizon, was preparing to dock. The loud hiss of hydraulics filled the room as the docking clamps extended. A young Lieutenant Sarai, was coordinating the procedure from the console.

"Engage docking clamps in three… two… one," Sarai’s voice was steady, efficient. The ship glided in smoothly, and the clamps latched onto its hull with a satisfying thunk.

The fly landed briefly on the comms panel, buzzing as Sarai continued to direct the unloading of supplies—medical equipment, rations, and some much-needed replacement parts for the reactor core. From its tiny vantage point, the fly could see workers maneuvering anti-grav loaders, guiding crates toward the station’s storage units. It was a ballet of precision and teamwork, all too ordinary for the crew, but fascinating to the fly.


Security Drill

Buzzing through the metallic corridors, the fly soon found itself near the Security Center, where Rear Admiral Walker himself was conducting an unannounced security drill.

“Begin the simulated breach,” the Admiral ordered, his gruff voice echoing through the room.

Red warning lights flashed, and the station’s alarm system came to life. Security officers sprang into action, their boots pounding the deck plating as they moved to counter the "intruders." Walker stood tall, arms crossed, observing his team with his sharp eyes.

The fly watched from the ceiling as Chief of Security, Commander Jenkins, barked orders to his team. "Sector 7 lockdown, now!" Jenkins' voice rang with authority. The security forces worked flawlessly, sealing off critical areas and rerouting station power to quarantine zones, trapping the simulated intruders.

The drill was over in a matter of minutes, a success by any standard, and Walker gave a rare nod of approval. The fly, not knowing what a security drill even was, just zipped past a flashing terminal, admiring the strange patterns of light.


Science Team Experiment

Curiosity drew the fly toward one of the science labs, where a group of researchers led by Dr. Elara Quinn was busy analyzing alien spores collected from a nearby moon.

"Increase containment field strength to 45%," Dr. Quinn said, peering through her microscope. The spores glowed faintly, suspended in a containment field. The scientists were running tests to see if they could harness the spores’ unusual energy for starship fuel.

The fly, unaware of the scientific importance of the moment, buzzed between the researchers’ heads, dipping momentarily into the glowing blue light of the containment field before darting out just in time. To the fly, it was just another shiny light, but to Dr. Quinn, it was a breakthrough.

“These spores might be the key to faster-than-light travel,” she whispered to her colleague, excitement clear in her voice.

The fly landed on a microscope lens for a second, then flitted off, uninterested in the potential to reshape the galaxy.


Crew Recreation Time

By now, the fly had ventured down to Deck 12, where the crew lounge was located. Here, off-duty officers were relaxing and unwinding after their shifts. A game of three-dimensional chess was in full swing between Commander Sasha Rakeem and Lieutenant Kyle Thorne.

"You’re going down, Kyle," Sasha said with a smirk as she moved her piece up two levels. The transparent board shimmered under the lounge’s ambient lights.

"Not if I make this move," Kyle countered, leaning forward with intense focus.

The fly hovered above the chessboard, the delicate movements of the pieces drawing its attention. From a bug’s-eye view, the shifting levels of the board seemed like mountains and valleys, an entire world in motion.

As the chess game played out, other crew members shared drinks, chatted, and laughed. The camaraderie and easygoing nature of the crew was infectious, even to the fly. It zipped around the lounge, listening in on snippets of conversation, catching the laughter and relaxed atmosphere.

After several hours of darting between control panels, laboratory tables, and recreation lounges, the fly had seen enough for one day. It made its way back toward one of the station's vents, content with the sights and sounds of this bustling hub of human activity. The station returned to its usual calm, each crewmember performing their duties with quiet competence under the watchful eye of Rear Admiral Walker.

The fly found a quiet corner to rest, unaware of the strategic importance of Starbase 99 or the missions that lay ahead for the crew. For the fly, it was simply another fascinating day in the vast expanse of space—a day filled with shiny lights, strange sounds, and interesting patterns.

And so, the fly lived happily ever after, forever buzzing around Starbase 99, its home among the stars.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)

The Return to Dreandar

With the Q defeated, Horkan and his crew returned to the Delta Quadrant, their ship barely holding together. News of their triumph spread quickly among the Hirogen, and upon their arrival at Dreandar, the Hirogen homeworld, they were met with adulation and reverence.

A grand ceremony was held in Horkan's honor, where he was bestowed with the highest accolades of the Hirogen. He had achieved what no other Hirogen had even dared to dream: the successful hunt of a Q. His name would be immortalized in Hirogen lore.

Players: TvR





DS2 RPG General Status Report October 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44

The USS Giant and USS Sun in the Celestial Nexus:

Captain Thompson sighed. "If we don’t act soon, the decision will be made for us."

The dilemma was clear.

Option 1: They could send a scouting party to approach the cloud, risking the lives of a few in exchange for crucial information that might save the entire fleet.

Option 2: They could muster the entire coalition and advance toward the cloud, gambling on an all-out offensive before the enemy could reach the Nexus—without knowing the true nature of the threat.

Option 3: They could stay put, using the time to build fortifications and prepare the Nexus for a defensive stand, hoping they would be strong enough when the cloud arrived.

No matter the decision, the stakes were astronomical. The "external threat" had been named, but its true face remained shrouded in mystery. Time was running out, and Captain Rodriguez and Captain Thompson had to decide how best to face the unknown.

Would their actions lead to salvation or doom for the coalition—and perhaps the galaxy itself?




Aboard the USS Runner, Captain Djavis in command:

As Captain Djavis stood before the mysterious technology, she knew the decision wasn’t hers alone. She opened a channel to Admiral Steichen.

"Admiral," Djavis began, her voice heavy with the weight of the decision, "we’ve deactivated the defenses, and the technology is within our grasp. But there’s a danger here, a danger that may be far greater than we anticipated."

Admiral Steichen listened in silence, her mind racing. Should she order them to retrieve the technology and take the risk, or should they leave it behind, safeguarding the galaxy from the potential devastation it might cause?

And just as she began to weigh the options, the presence of Lorem lingered in her thoughts, their cryptic riddles still echoing.

The scales had been balanced, but at what cost?

Now, Admiral Steichen faced the hardest question of all:

Would they dare to tilt them again?

Players: CS


Starbase 88

Captain Dora Jenkins stood on the bridge of the USS Celestial Voyager, the gravity of her situation deepening by the second. Starbase 21 was powerless, its main reactor offline and unable to defend itself, while pirate raiders rapidly closed in. Jenkins weighed her options, her gut instinct urging her to protect the starbase, even if it meant risking her ship and crew. But before she could make her decision, a priority message from Admiral Van Nieuwenhove flashed onto her console.

To: Captain Dora Jenkins, USS Celestial Voyager

Subject: Immediate Reinforcements – Hold Position

Captain Jenkins,

Reinforcements are en route to your position. The USS Verona, USS Jupiter, USS Florida, and USS Buzzer will arrive shortly via transwarp drive. Hold the raiders off as best you can until they arrive. Ensure the defense of Starbase 21 and its crew at all costs.

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove

As soon as the message ended, Jenkins felt a flicker of hope. Reinforcements were coming. She wouldn’t have to face the raiders alone. But the relief was fleeting; even with reinforcements, the pirate fleet outnumbered them, and the situation could still turn deadly.

Minutes later, the distinct shimmer of transwarp conduits appeared in space as the USS Verona, USS Jupiter, USS Florida, and USS Buzzer dropped out of transwarp and formed a defensive perimeter around the Celestial Voyager.

"Admiral's reinforcements are here, Captain," Lieutenant Kirov reported. "Shields raised, weapons online, and standing by for orders."

"Good," Jenkins said, steeling herself for the battle. "Prepare to engage."

The pirate raiders opened fire, their weapons flashing across the void of space. The battle erupted, a chaotic clash of energy beams and torpedoes lighting up the starbase’s shadowed exterior. Jenkins led her task force bravely, expertly coordinating the ships in a defensive dance to shield the starbase. However, it quickly became clear that the raiders were more formidable than anticipated.

The battle turned grim. The raiders’ ships were faster and more agile than expected, and despite their best efforts, the Federation ships were struggling to keep the enemy at bay. The USS Florida took a direct hit to its port nacelle, losing engine power. The USS Buzzer's shields were critically low, and the USS Verona was engaged in a desperate fight to avoid being overwhelmed.

"Captain, the raiders are pressing our left flank. We can't hold them much longer!" Kirov called out.

Just when it seemed the tide would turn against them, more transwarp signatures appeared. Jenkins exhaled in relief as the USS Gionato, USS Plato, USS Los Alamos, USS Halifax, and USS Manchester dropped out of transwarp and charged into the battle.

The new reinforcements turned the tide. The Federation ships, now outnumbering the raiders, pressed their advantage. Tactical strikes crippled several enemy vessels, and soon, the raiders began to retreat, scattering and fleeing into the depths of space.

"Enemy ships retreating, Captain!" Reilly reported from tactical, his voice a mix of relief and exhaustion.

Jenkins watched the viewscreen, where several damaged raider ships disappeared into warp. They had won the battle, but not without heavy losses on both sides. The USS Florida was badly damaged, and casualties had been reported from multiple ships.

But a new dilemma immediately arose. Some of the enemy ships had escaped. Captain Jenkins turned to her bridge crew, knowing the next course of action was crucial. Should they pursue the fleeing raiders and eliminate the threat once and for all? Or should they hold back, tend to their wounded, and focus on stabilizing Starbase 21?

Before Jenkins could issue any orders, a transmission from Starbase 88 cut through the tactical chatter. Admiral Van Nieuwenhove appeared on the viewscreen, his expression unreadable.

"Captain Jenkins, excellent work. Your efforts, along with the reinforcements, have prevented a disaster. However, a new decision is upon us," he said, pausing briefly. "Several raider ships have fled. The question is whether to pursue them into uncharted space, risking further conflict, or to consolidate our position here, repair our ships, and protect Starbase 21 from any future raids."

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove's decision would have significant ramifications. Pursuing the raiders might root out the pirate threat permanently, but it also carried the risk of engaging in a larger conflict far from Federation support. Staying back meant securing Starbase 21 and ensuring stability in the region, but it might allow the raiders to regroup and strike again in the future.

The Admiral now had to weigh the risks carefully. Would he order a pursuit into the unknown or prioritize the recovery and defense of Federation assets?

Starbase 21 personnel held its breath as Admiral Van Nieuwenhove contemplated his next move, knowing that either path would shape the future of this volatile sector.

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!



How does the Borg Collective expand?

The Borg Collective, a vast hive mind bent on perfection, expanded through a chilling and methodical process that left entire civilizations altered beyond recognition. Their quest was singular: to assimilate all species and technologies into their collective, thereby adding to their knowledge and efficiency.

It would begin with the detection of a new civilization. Upon locating a target, a Borg cube—massive, ominous, and geometric—would appear in orbit, often without warning. The Borg did not negotiate, for they had no need for diplomacy. Their only message: "We are the Borg. Resistance is futile. You will be assimilated."

The cube would send out drones, former beings stripped of individuality and fitted with cybernetic implants. These drones would storm planets, space stations, or ships, capturing any sentient life. Each prisoner was injected with nanoprobes, which quickly overwrote their biology, converting them into more drones. Resistance was indeed futile; even the strongest species, with advanced weapons, could barely hold out for long. The Borg adapted, learning from each skirmish, incorporating the technology of their enemies into their own.

As the drones assimilated more and more of a civilization, its technology, culture, and knowledge were transferred directly into the Collective's consciousness. The Borg grew stronger, faster, smarter. Once a species was fully absorbed, the cube would leave, moving on to its next target, always in search of new lifeforms to improve its collective might.

For the Borg, there was no end to the expansion. As their numbers grew, so did their hunger for new conquests. They spread through galaxies, one by one, stripping planets of their essence, leaving behind hollowed worlds populated only by emotionless drones, connected forever to the will of the Collective.

And so, the Borg's empire expanded—cold, relentless, and unstoppable—across the stars, turning individuality into nothing more than a distant memory in the vastness of their shared mind.

Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 422 12.11
In the aftermath of the successful operation, a newfound sense of camaraderie flourished among the Federation and the Fuion. They exchanged knowledge and cultural insights, fostering a partnership that extended beyond the immediate crisis. Scientific collaborations, diplomatic initiatives, and joint exploration ventures were established, weaving a tapestry of interstellar cooperation.

Day 427 06.34
The crews of the USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk, along with their allies, returned to Federation space as heroes. Starfleet Command lauded their bravery and ingenuity, and celebrations erupted across the planets they visited. The once-uncertain future now held the promise of continued exploration, cooperation, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Day 429 14.00
Commodore Jeffrey Slater and Captain Matz stood side by side at the celebratory event, looking out at the sea of smiling faces. The galaxy had been tested, and the Federation had emerged stronger than ever. As fireworks lit up the sky, symbolizing the victory over adversity, the captains exchanged a nod — a silent acknowledgment of the challenges faced and overcome.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

Fran stepped off the freighter SS Omission and onto the gleaming deck of Starbase 99. The towering docking bay doors were busy with crew members, cargo loaders, and flashing signals. Her simple mission was to accompany her cargo to the station, make sure everything was in order, and then reboard for departure in a few hours. But things took a turn when she mistook one of the identical hallways for the exit back to the freighter.

“Excuse me—” she started to ask a passing officer, but they were already lost in their tasks. The docking bay doors slid shut behind her, and when she turned around, the familiar shape of the SS Omission was hidden among a sea of ships and shuttles.

Fran exhaled, trying to stay calm. “Okay… how hard could it be to find my way back?”

She decided to explore her surroundings, hoping to stumble across the right way. Her path led her down brightly lit corridors until she arrived at a wide-open space—the arboretum. The air was noticeably fresher, filled with the scent of alien flora. Towering trees from distant worlds grew alongside shrubs with glowing flowers. A faint breeze, likely artificial, made the leaves shimmer in the soft light.

Fran paused to admire the scene, momentarily distracted from her predicament. She could see why people might want to live on a space station like this. It was serene, a slice of nature in the middle of cold, metal walls.

After a few more moments, she realized her time was limited. She checked her small wrist chrono. Still plenty of time before the SS Omission was due to depart, but she couldn’t afford to get completely lost.

Determined, she left the arboretum and followed a new hallway. This one led to the gym, where crewmembers of all species trained. Some were lifting weights, others jogging on tracks, and one large figure was using a device that appeared to simulate zero-gravity combat. Fran winced at the sound of grunts and heavy equipment clashing together.

She caught the attention of a Bolian working out nearby. "Hey, you look a little out of place. Need directions?"

“Yes! I’m trying to find my way back to the docking bay, the one where the SS Omission is docked. Do you know the way?”

The Bolian scratched his head. “The Omission? Hmm, not off the top of my head. But if you follow the green line on the floor, it might take you where you need to go.”

Fran glanced down. The floor was crisscrossed with different colored lines. Green, red, blue. She thanked the Bolian and followed the green one, but after a few minutes of walking, she found herself at another unexpected location—the aquarium.

Massive tanks filled with exotic, water-dwelling creatures surrounded her. Some swam leisurely through glowing coral reefs, while others darted playfully between rock formations. The space was dimly lit, with the soft hum of water filters in the background. Mesmerized by the sheer beauty of the creatures, Fran pressed her hand against the glass, watching as a school of vibrant fish zipped by.

That’s when she heard a voice behind her. "Ma'am, I think you're a little off course."

She turned around to see a tall, stern-looking Lieutenant K'nam, a Vulcan security officer, standing with two junior officers. His eyes calmly observed her as he folded his hands behind his back. "This area is restricted to off-duty personnel only."

“Oh, I'm so sorry! I didn’t mean to—I'm lost. I came here on the SS Omission and got turned around.”

K'nam raised an eyebrow. "The SS Omission is scheduled for departure shortly. You are quite far from the docking bay." His voice was devoid of frustration, simply stating the facts. "We will escort you back."

Relieved, Fran nodded, thankful she had found someone official to help her. The two junior officers fell in step behind her as K'nam led the way through the winding corridors, far more confident and precise than her earlier wandering. They passed the arboretum again, then skirted the gym, and finally, the wide docking bay doors came into view.

The SS Omission was already preparing for departure, its engines humming with life. Fran quickened her pace, glancing back to thank the security team. "Thank you so much! I don’t know what I would’ve done without you."

Lieutenant K'nam simply nodded. "It is our duty to assist."

The junior officers smiled and gave a small wave as she hurried back aboard the freighter. Just as Fran stepped over the threshold, the docking clamps released with a hiss, and the ship began to drift away from Starbase 99.

Settling into her seat in the cargo bay, she exhaled a long breath, laughing at the absurdity of her little adventure. Starbase 99 had been more than just a brief stop—she’d gotten a full tour.

The freighter hummed softly as it headed back into the stars, and Fran leaned back, already wondering when she might return.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)

The New Challenge

As Horkan basked in his newfound glory, a council of elder Hirogen approached him with a new challenge. They spoke of an ancient prophecy that foretold the arrival of a being more powerful than the Q, a creature that could bend reality and time itself. This being, known as the "Eternal Prey," was said to be the ultimate challenge for any hunter.

The elders believed that Horkan, now proven as the greatest hunter, was destined to face this new adversary. However, there was a dilemma. The prophecy also mentioned that this hunt would not only test the hunter's skill but also his very soul. It was said that the Eternal Prey had the power to alter the hunter's mind and essence, making him question his very existence.

Players: TvR





DS2 RPG General Status Report November 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44


The USS Giant and USS Sun in the Celestial Nexus:

The USS Giant and the USS Sun, under the command of Captain Rodriguez and Captain John Thompson respectively, reached a consensus. They decided to pursue Option 1 and Option 3 simultaneously. A scouting party would be sent to approach the mysterious cloud, risking their lives to gather vital intelligence, while the remaining coalition fleet would stay behind at the Celestial Nexus to fortify their defenses and prepare for the worst.

The Scouting Mission

The Xelorians, with their exceptional stealth capabilities, volunteered their vessel for the mission, accompanied by a small, multi-species crew from the coalition. Equipped with the best technology the allies could muster, the scoutship, Lightbringer, departed with a mix of hope and dread.
As the Lightbringer approached the massive cloud, its crew immediately felt the immense power radiating from the anomaly. The cloud, impossibly vast and writhing with faint glimmers of light and shadow, seemed alive. Its movements were slow yet purposeful, like a predator stalking its prey.
Xelorian Captain Nyrah: "Scanners are detecting faint energy fluctuations within the cloud, but we can't identify them. It's as if the entire thing is... one unified organism."
As the Lightbringer moved closer, the crew realized that the cloud was aware of their presence. Tendrils of energy shot out from its outer edges, wrapping around the ship despite evasive maneuvers. The crew worked frantically to break free.
Engineer Uthar (an Uthani): "Engines at full power! We're trying to pull away, but the cloud’s force is overwhelming!"
The tendrils tightened their grip, and despite their efforts, the Lightbringer was dragged into the heart of the anomaly. As the scoutship disappeared, all communication with it was lost.

The Cloud’s Wrath

Back at the Celestial Nexus, the coalition fleet received the chilling news. Tension gripped every ship as the cloud, now moving faster, turned directly toward them.
Captain Thompson: "It’s heading straight for us. All ships, maintain defensive positions! If this is it, we fight."
Before any defensive maneuvers could be executed, the cloud accelerated, engulfing the entire coalition fleet in an instant. Lights flickered and died across the bridges of the USS Giant, USS Sun, and their allies as the ships were pulled into the massive anomaly.
Inside the cloud, chaos reigned. Sensors malfunctioned, power fluctuated, and strange, otherworldly energy coursed through every vessel. Then, the voice came.

The Cloud (telepathically): “This food has a horrible taste.”
The entire fleet shook violently as the cloud expelled them. Every ship was flung out into space, back where they had been before, their systems intact but their crews stunned.
The cloud, with what almost seemed like indignation, began moving away at incredible speed, its massive form disappearing into the depths of the galaxy.

The Aftermath

As the coalition fleet regrouped, Captain Rodriguez and Captain Thompson addressed their crews and allies.
Captain Rodriguez: "It seems this ‘external threat’ wasn’t what we thought it was. Whatever it is, it didn't consider us worth consuming. We’re alive, and that's what matters."
Commander Zara of the Celestial Nexus: "This may have been a blessing in disguise. It’s clear this cloud is more than we can comprehend. Perhaps it will not trouble us again."
With the immediate threat gone, the coalition turned its attention to completing the portal to allow the USS Giant and USS Sun to return to Federation space. The combined efforts of the Gdi, Valkari, Arkanians, and other allies accelerated the process.

Saying Goodbye

After weeks of preparation, the portal was ready. The time had come for the USS Giant and USS Sun to bid farewell to their newfound allies.
Captain Thompson stood on the bridge of the USS Sun, addressing the coalition via comms: "We can’t thank you enough for your bravery, your camaraderie, and your trust. Without you, we wouldn’t have stood a chance. We’ll carry the stories of this alliance back to the Federation, and you will always have our respect."
Captain Rodriguez added from the USS Giant: "Though our time here was brief, we’ll never forget what we’ve accomplished together. May your coalition thrive and remain a beacon of hope in this galaxy."
The coalition ships saluted as the USS Giant and USS Sun activated their warp drives, passing through the glowing portal. A surge of energy enveloped them, and in a flash, they were gone.

Return to the Federation

The portal deposited the USS Giant and USS Sun directly at Starbase 44, where startled Federation officers watched as the two long-lost vessels emerged. Cheers erupted throughout the station as the ships docked, their crews stepping onto familiar ground for the first time in what felt like an eternity.
Admiral Steichen greeted Captain Rodriguez and Captain Thompson with a mixture of relief and curiosity. "Welcome home, Captains. You’ve been missing for months. There’s much to discuss."
The captains exchanged glances. They knew they had incredible tales to tell, of alliances forged in distant galaxies, of a living cloud that defied understanding, and of a coalition that stood united in the face of the unknown.


Aboard the USS Runner, Captain Djavis in command.

Admiral Steichen sat alone in her dimly lit command room aboard Starbase 44, gazing at the stars that stretched endlessly beyond the viewport. Lorem’s riddles and Captain Djavis’ warnings churned in her mind, but so too did the responsibility she bore as a leader. The fate of countless lives—and perhaps the entire galaxy—rested on the decisions she made in this moment.
After what felt like an eternity of silence, she reached for the comm link. Her voice, resolute and steady, cut through the tension on the USS Runner’s bridge.
"Captain Djavis," Steichen began, "I’ve heard your concerns. And I understand the risks. But this technology—what you’ve found—could be the key to securing the future for us all. We cannot leave it buried in the darkness, no matter the dangers. You have my order: retrieve the technology and bring it back to Starbase 44."
The words hung heavy in the air as Djavis acknowledged the directive. "Understood, Admiral. We’ll proceed carefully."
The USS Runner’s crew prepared for the task with a mix of excitement and trepidation. The ancient station’s interior pulsed with a strange energy, the walls glowing faintly with symbols that seemed alive. Each step further into its depths brought them closer to the core of the technology—and the danger that surrounded it.
Lieutenant Kalen led the effort to interface with the station’s systems. Using the harmonic patterns they’d deciphered earlier, she carefully stabilized the power surges emanating from the core. The crew worked with surgical precision, dismantling and securing key components of the alien devices.
Hours passed, and tension on the bridge was palpable. Finally, Kalen’s voice came through the comms, trembling with cautious relief. "Captain, we’ve extracted the core components. The technology is secure."
Cheers broke out among the crew, but the celebration was short-lived. As they began their retreat to the USS Runner, a deep rumble echoed through the station.
"Captain," Commander Hoshi called from the bridge, "we’re detecting massive energy fluctuations from the station! Something’s destabilizing."
Djavis tapped her comm badge. "Lieutenant Kalen, report!"
"The extraction must have disrupted the balance," Kalen replied, her voice taut with fear. "The station’s power grid is collapsing—it’s going to implode!"
"All teams, return to the ship immediately!" Djavis ordered.
The crew sprinted through the station’s corridors, carrying the precious alien technology with them. The structure around them groaned and cracked, fissures spreading across its ancient walls as energy surged chaotically.
Back aboard the USS Runner, Captain Djavis shouted, "Helm, get us out of here! Maximum warp as soon as we’re clear!"
The ship’s engines roared to life, and the USS Runner shot away from the collapsing station just as it erupted in a cataclysmic explosion. A shockwave rippled through the void, buffeting the ship but leaving it intact. The crew breathed a collective sigh of relief.
"Status report," Djavis said, sinking into her chair.
"The technology is secure," Kalen replied. "And we’re in the clear."
Djavis nodded, her shoulders heavy with the weight of their success—and the risks they’d taken to achieve it. She opened a channel to Admiral Steichen. "Admiral, the mission was a success. We’ve retrieved the technology, but the station has been destroyed. We’re returning to Starbase 44."
Steichen closed her eyes for a moment, letting the news settle. The price had been high, but they had achieved what many thought impossible.
But as the Runner made its way back to Starbase 44, the retrieved technology began emitting faint pulses of energy, undetectable to the crew. Somewhere in the depths of the Runner's cargo hold, the alien devices hummed with a subtle, malevolent rhythm, as if awakening from a long slumber.
Admiral Steichen, unaware of this ominous development, now faced a galaxy on the brink of a new age. Would the power they had seized be a beacon of hope—or a harbinger of ruin?
For now, her decision had brought them to the cusp of a new frontier, but the true cost of their actions remained unknown.



Aboard the USS Token, Captain Sarah Reynolds in Command

Admiral Steichen stood in the command center of Starbase 44, watching the bustling activity of her crew. The discovery of the Arbiters' plight and the subsequent resolution had restored a sense of hope and purpose across the station. But new challenges always arose in the galaxy, and today was no different.
"Captain Reynolds," Steichen addressed the officer on the viewscreen. "We’ve lost contact with a long-range exploration probe sent to sector 544444. Its last transmission included promising data on an unusual spatial anomaly, but its signal abruptly ceased. Your mission is to find out what happened and, if possible, recover the probe."
Captain Sarah Reynolds, seated confidently in the captain's chair aboard the USS Token, nodded. "Understood, Admiral. We'll depart immediately."
"Be cautious, Captain. The probe's final coordinates are in deep, uncharted space. We don't know what caused it to stop transmitting, and I don’t like mysteries this far out. Keep me updated."
The Token, a sturdy Nova-class science vessel, disengaged from Starbase 44 and set a course for sector 544444. As the ship warped into the unexplored region, the crew prepared for the unexpected. The journey to the sector was uneventful, but when they arrived at the probe’s last known coordinates, they found... nothing.
"Helm, confirm position," Captain Reynolds ordered, leaning forward in her chair.
"Position confirmed," said Ensign Rilak from the navigation console. "This is exactly where the probe’s signal was last detected."
"But there’s nothing here," said Lieutenant Commander Mara Jin, the ship's science officer, scanning the area from her station. "No probe. No wreckage. No anomaly. Just... empty space."
Reynolds frowned. "Could the probe have drifted?"
"Unlikely," Jin replied. "The probe’s thrusters would have maintained position unless there was an external force."
"External force?" Reynolds echoed. "Could something have pulled it away?"
"Scanning for traces of gravitational disturbances, subspace fluctuations, or residual energy signatures," Jin said. After a moment, her brow furrowed. "Captain... there’s something odd. I’m detecting faint traces of a subspace signature, but it’s unstable. It’s as if space itself here is... fraying."
The bridge fell silent as the implications of Jin’s findings set in.
"Fraying?" Reynolds asked. "Like some kind of rift?"
"Possibly," Jin said. "But it’s not behaving like any known spatial anomaly. It’s faint, almost as if it’s hiding."
"Could the probe have been pulled into this… instability?" Reynolds asked.
"That’s a distinct possibility," Jin admitted. "If it entered an area where subspace is unstable, it might have been dragged into another layer of reality—or destroyed outright."
Reynolds stared at the viewscreen, the stars seeming almost eerily still. "All stop. Maintain position."
"Aye, Captain. Full stop," the helmsman replied.
"Prepare a probe of our own," Reynolds said. "Launch it into the area of the instability. Let’s see what happens."
The crew worked quickly, deploying a new probe outfitted with enhanced sensors. As it drifted into the region where the instability was detected, the bridge crew watched its progress on the monitors. For a few moments, the probe transmitted nominal data—standard subspace readings, stellar radiation levels—until it began to flicker.
"Probe is losing signal!" Jin said. "Something is interfering—"
Before she could finish, the probe's feed cut off entirely.
"Status?" Reynolds demanded.
"It’s gone," Jin said, her voice grim. "Just like the first one. No explosion, no debris. It simply... disappeared."
Reynolds stood, her gaze fixed on the blank monitor. "Helm, back us off from the coordinates. Lieutenant Jin, continue scanning. I want a complete analysis of that subspace signature."
As the Token moved to a safer distance, the ship suddenly shuddered.
"Report!" Reynolds barked.
"Unidentified energy wave!" called Ensign Rilak. "It came from the same area as the probe’s disappearance."
"Shields up," Reynolds ordered. "What kind of energy wave?"
"Unknown," Rilak replied. "But it seems... deliberate."
"Deliberate?" Reynolds repeated, her mind racing. "Is it possible someone—or something—is responsible for the probe’s disappearance?"
Before anyone could answer, the Token’s sensors lit up with a new reading. A faint, flickering signal began to emerge from the region of space where the probe had vanished.
"Captain," Jin said, her voice filled with a mix of awe and dread. "I think we’re picking up the original probe’s signal. But it’s... distorted. Almost as if it’s coming from another dimension."
Reynolds stared at the readout, her gut telling her that they were standing on the edge of something far greater—and far more dangerous—than they had anticipated.
"Open a channel to Starbase 44," she said, her voice steady despite the uncertainty. "Admiral Steichen needs to hear about this."
As the channel connected, Reynolds turned back to her crew. "We might have just found something far beyond our understanding—and we need to decide whether to go deeper or pull back and regroup."
The choice hung heavy in the air. Would the Token venture into the unknown to uncover the fate of the probes and the mystery of the unstable space? Or would caution prevail, sparing the ship and crew from an unknown danger? The decision would shape not only their fate but perhaps the understanding of space itself.



The Lorem


Admiral Steichen stood by the observation window of Starbase 44, the vastness of the galaxy stretching out before her, pinpricked with distant stars. She clasped her hands behind her back, pondering the cryptic instructions she had received from the Lorem. Their directive to gather new technology had been clear, yet frustratingly devoid of context.
Her mind was filled with questions. Why does the Lorem, an almost omnipotent species, require the Federation's help in gathering technology? And what kind of technology do they truly seek?
She tapped the comm panel. "Prepare the communication array. I need to reach the Lorem."

The bridge officers exchanged nervous glances. Communicating with the Lorem was always a challenge. Their responses were notoriously elusive, couched in riddles and metaphors that defied straightforward interpretation.
Minutes later, the array hummed to life, and a shimmering projection appeared in the center of the room—a swirling mass of colors and patterns, the representation of the Lorem's presence. Their voice resonated through the room, layered and otherworldly.
"Admiral Steichen," they intoned, "the seeker of sparks amidst the void. You call upon us with purpose. Speak."
Steichen squared her shoulders. "Lorem, I have done as you asked. Ships under my command have retrieved technologies from across the quadrant. But I must know—why do you require this? And what kind of technology do you truly seek?"

The Lorem's form shifted, colors deepening. Their voice carried a cryptic rhythm.

"Gather ye the fire of thought,
The silent hum, the battles fought.
A storm approaches, veiled and stark,
The tools you bring shall light the dark."

Steichen frowned, her mind racing to decipher their words. "A storm? Is this about a threat? What tools do we need to prepare for it?"
The Lorem replied, their tone enigmatic.

"Not all tools are forged in flame,
Nor all storms wear the cloak of blame.
Wisdom breathes where shadows blend;
The path depends on journeys' end."

Frustration crept into Steichen's voice. "You ask for wisdom and tools, but this galaxy teems with countless technologies. Do you seek weapons? Defenses? Advanced computing? What is the nature of this storm?"
The Lorem paused, their swirling form stilling for a moment.

"Admiral, the answer lies not in a single spark,
But in the weave of knowledge, whole and stark.
Seek not the pieces, but the pattern they bear;
Prepare the fabric, if you dare."

The projection dimmed, their presence fading before she could respond further.
Steichen leaned against the console, her thoughts a whirlwind. The Lorem's riddles hinted at a greater purpose—something beyond mere accumulation of technology. It was about understanding the connections, the larger picture.
Turning to her officers, she spoke firmly. "Analyze everything we've retrieved so far. Cross-reference it. Find the pattern. The Lorem may speak in riddles, but if there's one thing I've learned, it's that their words always have meaning. Whatever storm is coming, we need to be ready."
And as she stared back out at the stars, she couldn't shake the feeling that the Lorem's riddles concealed more than answers—they concealed a warning.


Players: CS


Starbase 88

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove made his decision swiftly, prioritizing the immediate safety and stability of the region. The battered state of Starbase 21 and the Federation ships demanded a focus on recovery rather than further risk.


To: Captain Dora Jenkins, USS Celestial Voyager

Subject: Orders – Consolidate and Secure

Captain Jenkins,

Your orders are to remain at Starbase 21 to ensure its security and assist in stabilization efforts. The risk of pursuing the raiders in our current state outweighs the potential benefits. We will deploy additional resources to fortify the starbase against future attacks.
Monitor the surrounding area for any signs of regrouping raiders. If the opportunity presents itself under safe conditions, intelligence gathering on their movements will be your secondary priority.

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove
Starbase 88


Captain Jenkins read the orders aloud to her crew, sensing their mixed reactions. Relief was tempered by frustration; some wanted to pursue the enemy and ensure they could not return. Still, the Captain agreed with the Admiral’s reasoning. Her immediate priority was her ship, her crew, and the vulnerable Starbase 21.
The crew of the Celestial Voyager threw themselves into their work. Engineers from the Celestial Voyager and Starbase 21 collaborated to repair the reactor and restore power. Medical teams tended to the injured on both the starbase and the Federation ships, and tactical officers enhanced the starbase’s defenses, including new automated turrets and a reinforced shield array.
As the repairs progressed, the question remained: what would the raiders do next?



The Raiders’ Decision

Unknown to the Federation, the Raiders have a new plan.
The surviving pirate ships regrouped in a hidden nebula on the edge of the sector. Their leader, a ruthless and cunning tactician named Krallik, convened a war council aboard their flagship.
"We underestimated the Federation's resolve," Krallik snarled, pacing before his gathered officers. "But they’ve made a mistake by staying back. They think we’ll retreat and lick our wounds. Instead, we’ll show them our true strength."
Krallik devised a bold plan: rather than returning for a direct assault, the raiders would scatter across the sector, striking vulnerable supply lines and isolated colonies to destabilize the Federation’s grip in the region. They would also send spies to infiltrate Starbase 21 and gather intelligence on its repairs and defenses. Once they had weakened the Federation's ability to respond, they would return for a decisive attack.
The raiders’ strategy hinged on speed and surprise, spreading chaos to draw Federation forces thin while avoiding prolonged engagements. Krallik was willing to play the long game, biding his time for the right moment to strike back at full strength.


A New Dilemma

Back at Starbase 21, long-range sensors detected anomalous activity in neighboring sectors—reports of small pirate raids targeting freighters and unaligned settlements. The raiders were on the move, but their attacks were scattered and unpredictable, making it difficult to discern their overall strategy.
Admiral Van Nieuwenhove faced a new dilemma. Should he divert more ships to patrol the affected sectors, spreading Federation forces thin but potentially stopping the raiders before they could regroup? Or should he consolidate the fleet around critical assets like Starbase 21, ensuring their protection but allowing the raiders to gain momentum in their destabilizing campaign?
Each choice carried significant risks. Spreading forces too thin could leave vital installations vulnerable to attack, while focusing on defense might embolden the raiders to escalate their assaults. Time was running out, and the Admiral had to decide how best to safeguard the Federation's interests in the region without falling into the pirates' trap.

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!



Good Borg or bad Borg


Captain Elyra stood before her assimilated crew in the dimly lit chamber of the Borg cube, the faint hum of its machinery filling the room. The rebel faction on Dronaze posed a challenge that could no longer be ignored. Their defiance threatened the unity she and her team had worked so diligently to achieve. Yet the Borg’s directive for voluntary assimilation conflicted with the efficient resolution that force could provide.
She weighed her options carefully. Both solutions—assimilation and relocation—had merit, but each came with risks and consequences. A direct approach could fracture the fragile trust they’d built with the Dronazian population. The solution, Elyra realized, was subtlety.

The plan unfolded over weeks, methodical and quiet. The rebels had organized themselves into isolated cells to avoid detection, but their separation played directly into Elyra's strategy. One by one, members of the faction began to disappear. Borg drones, cloaked in shadows, infiltrated their hideouts, silently assimilating the most influential or defiant among them. These assimilated individuals were not returned to the population but held within the Borg cube, their knowledge and skills extracted and integrated into the Collective.
This slow attrition weakened the rebels' leadership and reduced their ability to organize effectively. Those who remained became paranoid, suspecting betrayal within their ranks. Trust among them frayed, and the cohesion of their movement began to crumble.

Simultaneously, another arm of Elyra’s plan was set into motion. While some rebels were assimilated, others were carefully selected for transport. These individuals were those deemed less critical to the rebellion’s structure but still valuable for study. Borg drones covertly captured them during patrols or raids and transported them to an uninhabited, resource-scarce planet. The location was intentionally chosen to be challenging but not uninhabitable.
On this remote world, the rebels found themselves cut off from their former allies and the support systems of Dronaze. They struggled to adapt to the harsh environment, their focus shifting from rebellion to survival. The Borg observed them through discreet probes and surveillance drones, studying their behavior in isolation. The data collected would provide insights into resistance dynamics and methods to address opposition more effectively in the future.

As weeks turned into months, the rebel faction's influence on Dronaze diminished. With their numbers slowly reduced and their remaining members gripped by fear and suspicion, their ability to spread dissent waned. Among the general population, whispers circulated about the rebels’ mysterious disappearances. Some speculated that the "gods" had punished them for their defiance, further cementing the Borg's divine image among the Dronazians.
Captain Elyra, standing in her chamber aboard the cube, reviewed the results of the operation. Assimilation had proven effective for neutralizing key threats, while relocation provided valuable data and a more ethical alternative to outright extermination. The dual approach had successfully weakened the rebellion without drawing undue attention, but the consequences weighed heavily on her mind.

The dilemma lingered as Elyra reflected on her actions. While her plan had achieved its objectives, it raised questions about the Borg's methods and mission. Was it right to secretly manipulate and eliminate dissent under the guise of peaceful unity? Could the Borg's ideals of harmony be upheld when they resorted to tactics that mirrored the control they claimed to transcend?
As Dronaze grew quieter and more unified, the seeds of doubt took root within Elyra's consciousness, even as the Collective suppressed such thoughts. The mission had succeeded, but at what cost to their principles? The next world awaited, and with it, the promise of new challenges—and perhaps new dilemmas—to test the balance between unity and autonomy.

 

To be a god or not to be a god

What link? The Great Link


The Borg King’s deliberations reached a definitive conclusion. The risks were worth it—all of it. The dream of transcending the boundaries of perfection into godhood demanded boldness. The unity of the Borg could be preserved, albeit in an evolved form. The solution was clear: restructure the Collective itself.
To maintain order while integrating telepathic, telekinetic, and empathic abilities, the Borg King decreed the creation of Superdrones—powerful overseers who would each control vast regions of the Collective. These Superdrones, imbued with telepathic and telekinetic capabilities, would act as nodes of authority, each governing a portion of the hive mind. They would ensure efficiency and discipline among their regions while answering directly to the Borg King and Master One, the ultimate arbiters of order.
This hierarchical reorganization was not a weakness but a necessity. The Borg Empire had grown vast, spanning regions of space too immense for a singular centralized mind to oversee. The partial integration of telepathic principles gleaned from the Changelings’ link enabled a new kind of bond between drones, facilitating communication and coordination even across immense distances. The Borg's unity, though evolved, remained absolute.


The Captured Changeling

The captured Changeling, once defiant, found itself in complete isolation. Sealed away in a containment sphere where time and space seemed to stretch endlessly, it was cut off from the Great Link, unable to feel the comforting presence of its kin. The Borg were patient. They did not rush to assimilate the Changeling, understanding that breaking its spirit would yield better results.
The drones studied the Changeling's behavior, monitoring its mental and emotional patterns. Over time, its resolve weakened. Without the Great Link, it became lonely and disoriented, craving connection. The Borg introduced subtle manipulations: simulations of the Link, moments of apparent solace, only to withdraw them abruptly. The Changeling began to yearn for any connection, even with its captors.
The Borg King and Master One personally oversaw the next step. Master One used his dark powers to probe the Changeling's mind, sowing seeds of doubt about its allegiance to the Great Link. The Borg subtly offered an alternative—an eternal connection within the Collective, where it would no longer feel isolation. Over time, the Changeling yielded, its resistance replaced by desperation. It did not see its integration into the Borg as assimilation but as salvation.
As the Changeling willingly shared its secrets, the Borg dissected and absorbed them into their databases. Every nuance of the Great Link was cataloged and understood. The Borg learned how the Link functioned biologically and telepathically. The mysteries of the Changelings' collective consciousness were no longer mysteries—they were now Borg knowledge.


The Fall of the Great Link

Armed with their newfound understanding, the Borg prepared for their ultimate move against the Changelings. The captured Changeling, now fully integrated, became a tool of the Collective. Through it, the Borg established a direct connection to the Great Link, their telepathic enhancements allowing them to infiltrate its very fabric.
The Changelings, unprepared for this level of intrusion, faltered. The Link, once an unassailable bastion of unity, began to fracture as the Borg projected their presence into it. Individual Changelings were overwhelmed, their minds consumed by the relentless precision of the Borg. One by one, they were assimilated into the Collective.
The Great Link, the heart of the Dominion, dissolved into the hive mind. The era of the Changelings came to an end, their once-proud civilization subsumed into the relentless tide of the Borg.


A New Era of Expansion

With the Changelings’ telepathic and biological secrets fully assimilated, the Borg Collective stood on the precipice of true ascension. Superdrones oversaw vast swaths of the empire, the drones under them enhanced with the abilities of the Betazoids, Cairn, and now the Changelings. Telepathic, telekinetic, and empathic capabilities flowed seamlessly through the hive mind. No thought could be hidden, no force could stand against their will.
The Borg King and Master One looked out across their empire, now poised to dominate not just the galaxy but dimensions beyond. Yet, even in this moment of triumph, a shadow of doubt lingered. The restructuring of the Collective, while necessary, introduced complexity that bordered on individuality. Would the Superdrones remain loyal? Could the Borg King and Master One maintain perfect control over this vast and increasingly diverse Collective?
The Borg, gods in all but name, now faced a profound question: Could perfection evolve indefinitely, or would it reach a point where its very nature threatened to unravel itself?

Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 429 15.00
The USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk were hailed as symbols of unity and resilience, their journey an inspiring tale that echoed through the corridors of Starfleet academies and resonated with citizens across the Federation. The galaxy, once threatened by uncertainty, now embraced a future built on the foundations of cooperation, understanding, and the shared pursuit of peace.

Day 429 18.00
And so, against all odds, the USS Vertigo and the USS Gdonsk sailed into the cosmic sea, their crews ready for whatever mysteries and adventures awaited them in the unexplored reaches of the cosmos. The victory achieved, and the happiness that followed were not just the triumphs of two starships but the triumphs of a united galaxy.

Day 434 21.08
The USS Vertigo and USS Gdonsk, having earned renown for their previous victory over the alien invaders, were now assigned to patrol Sector 9741, a relatively quiet but strategically important region of Federation space. Commodore Jeffrey Slater on the Vertigo and Captain Matz on the Gdonsk welcomed the opportunity to focus on exploration and diplomacy in this uncharted corner of the galaxy. Their patrol had been uneventful until a distress signal was detected.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

The USS Trinidad, under the command of Captain Lidia Henner, shimmered with a fresh coat of starbase sheen as it departed Starbase 99. The ship, a sleek Nebula-class vessel, was built for versatility. Its mission this time was simple: to chart a series of unclaimed star systems at the fringes of Federation space. After years of tense border skirmishes and delicate diplomacy, Captain Henner welcomed the chance for a routine exploratory mission.
Her bridge crew shared the sentiment. Commander Veran, her unflappably logical Vulcan first officer, stood at her side. Lieutenant Korrin, the Bolian helmsman, kept a steady course, his cheerful demeanor buoying the mood. Behind them, Lieutenant Commander Dira T’Val, a sharp-eyed Andorian in charge of tactical systems, monitored the ship’s sensors.
The stars were serene, and for three uneventful days, the crew mapped asteroid fields, cataloged gaseous anomalies, and admired the vast quiet of space. But on the fourth day, the serenity broke—not with an emergency, but with awe.
"Captain," Dira called, her antennae twitching in curiosity. "Sensors are picking up... something unusual. Massive energy readings, approximately twenty thousand kilometers off our port bow."
"On screen," Henner ordered, leaning forward in her chair.
The viewscreen shifted to reveal a breathtaking sight. Floating in the void was a creature, its form both majestic and alien. Its body stretched over a kilometer long, translucent like the depths of an ocean, with ethereal ribbons of bioluminescence rippling along its frame. Wings or fins—impossible to tell which—undulated gently, propelling it through the vacuum with an almost musical grace.
“Is it alive?” asked Ensign T'Kaal, the science officer, her voice tinged with awe.
Veran consulted his console. “Undoubtedly. Its energy signature indicates a metabolic process. Its composition suggests it could survive in vacuum, likely subsisting on interstellar particles and radiation.”
"Can it detect us?" Henner asked, her gaze fixed on the creature.
“It appears to be aware of our presence,” Veran replied. “Its trajectory altered slightly as we approached, but there’s no indication of hostility.”
Captain Henner took a deep breath, steadying herself. She had encountered many alien species, but nothing like this. “Open hailing frequencies. Let’s try to communicate.”
The bridge held its collective breath as Dira activated the comms. The crew waited, unsure if a being like this could even perceive sound waves or subspace signals. Moments later, the ship shuddered—not with an impact, but with an unfamiliar resonance.
"Captain," Korrin said, "it's... responding. I think."
Henner nodded. "Explain."
“Audio sensors are picking up harmonic vibrations emanating from the creature," T’Kaal explained, her hands dancing over her station. "It’s... music, Captain. Complex, layered frequencies. It might be a form of communication.”
“Can we respond in kind?” Henner asked.
“Modulating the deflector array to emit harmonic frequencies,” T’Kaal confirmed.
"Do it," Henner ordered.
The Trinidad’s deflector emitted a gentle hum, carefully tuned to match the creature’s melody. The response was immediate. The creature moved closer, its glowing ribbons pulsing in sync with the ship’s signal.
“It’s reacting positively,” Veran noted. “The frequencies are synchronizing. It appears... pleased.”
As the two entities—the starship and the living being—sang to one another across the void, the crew found themselves entranced. The vibrations reverberated through the Trinidad, filling the corridors with a gentle, otherworldly symphony.
“This is extraordinary,” Henner said, her voice hushed. “A creature like this—alive in the depths of space. It’s more than a discovery. It’s a reminder.”
“Of what, Captain?” asked Korrin.
“That we are not the only ones exploring this vast universe,” Henner said. “And that even here, in the silence of space, there is music.”
For hours, the Trinidad and the creature communicated in their strange duet. When it was time to part ways, the alien being emitted one last, resonant chord—a farewell, or perhaps a blessing.
As the creature vanished into the starlit expanse, Captain Henner gave the order to resume their mission. But the crew carried the encounter with them, the memory of the song lingering in their hearts.
And in her ready room that evening, Henner gazed out at the stars, the alien melody still echoing faintly in her thoughts. The Trinidad was a ship of exploration, but in that moment, it had become something greater: a vessel of harmony, bridging the infinite.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)

The Dilemma

Horkan stood at a crossroads. The hunt for the Q had fulfilled his deepest desires, and he had achieved unparalleled glory. Yet, the allure of an even greater challenge beckoned him. The prospect of facing the Eternal Prey stirred something primal within him, a hunger for an even more extraordinary hunt.

However, the warning from the elders weighed heavily on him. The Eternal Prey was not just another adversary; it was a test of his very being. To pursue this hunt could mean losing himself in ways he could not fathom.

Horkan's mind raced with conflicting thoughts. On one hand, the glory and prestige of such a hunt were irresistible. On the other, the uncertainty and potential loss of his identity posed a grave risk. The Hirogen around him awaited his decision, their eyes filled with both anticipation and concern.

Players: TvR





DS2 RPG General Status Report December 2024

USS Earth/Starbase 44

"Gather ye the fire of thought,
The silent hum, the battles fought.
A storm approaches, veiled and stark,
The tools you bring shall light the dark."

Steichen frowned, her mind racing to decipher their words. "A storm? Is this about a threat? What tools do we need to prepare for it?"

The Lorem replied, their tone enigmatic.

"Not all tools are forged in flame,
Nor all storms wear the cloak of blame.
Wisdom breathes where shadows blend;
The path depends on journeys' end."

Players: CS


Starbase 88

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove, after careful deliberation, issued his orders. The raiders’ unpredictable strikes had created chaos, but the defense of critical assets, particularly Starbase 21, took precedence. Spreading the Federation fleet too thin would risk catastrophic losses if a major target like Starbase 21 or a vital supply depot were attacked. Consolidation was the only logical choice.


To: Captain Dora Jenkins, USS Celestial Voyager
Subject: Orders – Maintain Defensive Position

Captain Jenkins,

Your orders remain to defend Starbase 21 and support the fleet in consolidating around our critical assets. Intelligence suggests the raiders are exploiting vulnerabilities across the region, but their main strength remains unclear. Maintaining our defensive posture will safeguard our key installations and buy us time to fortify.
Remain vigilant and report any changes in raider activity. Your tactical expertise will be essential if the raiders regroup for a direct assault.

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove


Captain Jenkins relayed the orders to her crew, focusing their efforts on enhancing Starbase 21’s defenses and increasing patrols around nearby sectors. Reports of raider activity trickled in over the following weeks, but then, unexpectedly, they stopped entirely.
The Federation’s long-range sensors, which had been tracking the raiders’ movements, detected no further strikes. Freighter lanes that had been under siege were suddenly clear. Settlements that had feared attack reported nothing unusual. The raiders had vanished, leaving the Federation puzzled.

---------------------------

The Unknown Truth: The Huranon Strike Back

Unbeknownst to the Federation, one of the raider attacks had targeted a Huranon freighter—a trading vessel belonging to a highly advanced and fiercely protective species. The Huranon, known for their strict non-aggression stance unless provoked, viewed the attack as a direct affront.
The Huranon responded with unrelenting force. Within days of the incident, they dispatched three powerful battleships into the region, hunting the raiders with precision and overwhelming firepower. The raiders, accustomed to targeting vulnerable civilian ships, were wholly unprepared for the technological and tactical superiority of the Huranon.
One by one, the raider ships were destroyed. Those that attempted to flee were pursued and eliminated. The few remaining raiders scattered into deep space, abandoning their operations entirely.
The Huranon freighter, damaged but intact, was recovered and escorted back to safety by its own fleet. Satisfied that the raider threat had been neutralized, the Huranon ships began their journey back to their home systems.

---------------------------




A New Dilemma

Admiral Van Nieuwenhove and the Federation leadership were left in the dark about the true reason for the raiders’ disappearance. The sudden cessation of attacks raised questions, and intelligence analysts were divided.
Should the Federation investigate the mysterious halt in raider activity, potentially uncovering the involvement of an unknown third party? Such an investigation could lead to valuable insights but might also risk inadvertently provoking a powerful and unfamiliar species.
Alternatively, should the Federation remain focused on its defensive posture, ensuring stability in the region while avoiding unnecessary entanglements? Staying defensive would minimize risk but leave the mystery unresolved and the Federation unaware of the Huranon’s role.
Admiral Van Nieuwenhove now faced another crucial decision. Would the Federation choose curiosity and investigation or caution and consolidation? The galaxy’s stability, and the potential for new alliances or conflicts, hung in the balance.

Players: GVN


USS Thunderbolt/The Borg Collective



Spoiler alert!

Attention! This part of the DS2 RPG contains spoilers for those who have not seen Star Trek Picard Season 1-2-3!



 
Good Borg or bad Borg


The Borg cube drifted through the void of space, its massive structure a silent monument to efficiency and control. Within its walls, Captain Elyra and her assimilated crew received their next directive: the planet Redneron. A primitive world of dense forests, sweeping plains, and small, scattered communities, it was home to a population of fifty million. Its people lived simple lives, toiling the land and surviving with rudimentary tools and practices. To the Borg, Redneron represented an untapped resource, a potential pool of labor that could one day serve the Collective.
Captain Elyra prepared to embark on this mission, ready to employ her peaceful approach to sway the Rednerians to the Borg's side without forced assimilation. But as the cube entered orbit, something unexpected became apparent. The planet’s surface was dotted with signs of turmoil: villages abandoned, fields left untended, and smoke rising from funeral pyres.
Through her Betazoid-enhanced senses, Elyra felt the collective pain and fear of Redneron’s people. A pandemic had swept across the planet, a virulent sickness that claimed lives indiscriminately. The Rednerians’ primitive medical knowledge was insufficient to combat it, and the disease was spreading rapidly. If left unchecked, the entire population would perish within months.
Elyra convened her crew in the command chamber, the vast space illuminated by the glow of the Collective’s data streams. “The situation on Redneron is dire,” she began, her voice calm but resolute. “The people are dying from a pandemic they cannot cure. We have the knowledge and resources to save them.”
Zara, the communications officer, frowned. “If we heal them, we reveal our power and position ourselves as benevolent gods. They will see us as saviors and be more willing to join the Borg.”
Kaden, the engineer, interjected, “But curing them comes at a cost. If they see us as divine beings and flock to us out of desperation, is that truly a voluntary choice? Are we offering salvation, or are we exploiting their weakness to secure loyalty?”
Rylan, the pilot, added, “If we do nothing, they will die. We lose fifty million potential laborers and any chance of peacefully integrating this planet into the Collective. Is their extinction a risk we’re willing to take?”
Taran, the Betazoid, offered another perspective. “Healing them could create a dependency. They may look to us for solutions to every problem, weakening their autonomy. On the other hand, allowing them to die would be an act of cruelty that goes against our efforts to establish the Borg as a force for unity and prosperity.”

The room fell silent as the crew contemplated the dilemma. The Borg’s medical knowledge could easily cure the disease, eradicating the pandemic and saving the planet’s population. But this act of intervention raised ethical questions. Would they truly be saving the Rednerians, or would they be manipulating them into submission?

Captain Elyra stood at the center of the room, her mind connected to the Collective’s vast network of data and experiences. She could feel the weight of the decision pressing down on her, not only as an individual but as a representative of the Borg's evolving philosophy.

“Here is our path,” she finally said, her voice firm. “We will heal the people of Redneron, but we will do so openly and honestly. We will not present ourselves as gods, but as beings with the ability and willingness to help. We will show them what the Borg can offer—a future free of disease and suffering—and allow them to decide if they wish to join us.”


The plan was set into motion. Elyra and her crew descended to the surface, bringing advanced medical technology and knowledge. They worked tirelessly, treating the sick and halting the spread of the disease. The Rednerians watched in awe as the strangers from the sky saved their families and communities. Word spread quickly, and gratitude turned to reverence.

However, tensions arose. Some Rednerians, particularly their leaders and shamans, viewed the Borg with suspicion. “What do they want in return for this gift?” they whispered among themselves. “No one gives without expecting something in return.”

Elyra addressed these concerns directly. “We ask nothing,” she told them, her empathic abilities allowing her to convey sincerity. “We simply wish to show you the possibilities of a better future, one we can build together. The choice to join us is yours.”

As the pandemic waned and the people of Redneron began to rebuild, Elyra faced a lingering question: Would the Rednerians’ gratitude lead them to embrace the Borg, or would their leaders’ suspicion sow division? And what of the Borg’s intentions—were they truly altruistic, or had they simply found another way to secure loyalty through dependency?
The dilemma loomed large. By saving Redneron, Elyra and her crew had altered the course of the planet’s history. But whether that change would lead to unity, resistance, or something in between remained uncertain. For now, Elyra could only wait and observe, the future of Redneron—and the Borg’s mission—hanging in the balance.

The Borg cube drifted silently above Redneron, a monolithic presence in the sky. The mission to save the Rednerians had gone according to plan. With their advanced medical knowledge, Captain Elyra and her assimilated crew had eradicated the pandemic that threatened the planet’s population. Yet, just as the Rednerians began to rebuild their lives, an insidious problem emerged aboard the cube.

It started subtly. A drone in a maintenance bay faltered, its movements jerky and imprecise. Within hours, several more drones exhibited similar symptoms: erratic behavior, a lack of coordination, and a gradual shutdown of vital systems. The Collective’s vast diagnostic systems identified the source—a pathogen from Redneron, one that had mutated to infect cybernetic and organic components alike. Despite the Borg’s resilience and self-repair mechanisms, the pathogen was spreading rapidly.

Captain Elyra stood in the central command chamber, surrounded by her core crew. The hive-like hum of the Collective was fainter now, disrupted by the failing drones. She felt the growing unease through her Betazoid-enhanced senses, a rare occurrence among the usually emotionless Borg.
“We have a problem,” Kaden reported, his voice steady but tinged with urgency. “The pathogen from Redneron has adapted to our systems. It’s attacking both the organic and cybernetic components of the drones. If it continues to spread, it could compromise the entire cube.”
Zara, the communications officer, frowned. “Can’t we isolate the infected drones and repair them? We have advanced medical and technological knowledge.”

Taran, the Betazoid, shook his head. “The pathogen is too aggressive. Every attempt at repair has failed. The drones lose function completely within hours of infection.”

Rylan, the pilot, added grimly, “And the more time we spend trying to save them, the more we risk the pathogen spreading to all of us. If we don’t act quickly, we could lose the entire cube.”
Elyra’s mind raced as she processed the information. The Collective was already fragmenting as more drones fell silent. The pathogen was unlike anything they had encountered before—evolved and relentless. The situation presented an unthinkable choice.


Option 1: Destroy the Infected Drones

The most efficient solution was to isolate and destroy the infected drones. By eliminating them, the spread of the pathogen could be contained, preserving the rest of the Collective aboard the cube. Yet this approach came with a heavy cost. The Borg valued every drone as a vital part of the whole, a repository of knowledge and skills. Destroying them felt like a betrayal of the principles of preservation and unity.


Option 2: Quarantine and Research

The alternative was to quarantine the infected drones and dedicate resources to finding a cure. This approach aligned with the Borg’s adaptability and pursuit of perfection, but it carried immense risks. If the quarantine failed or the pathogen proved unstoppable, the entire cube—and perhaps even the broader Collective—could be lost. The longer they delayed decisive action, the more lives and systems were put in jeopardy.


Elyra turned to her crew, her voice calm despite the storm within. “We must decide. Do we destroy the infected drones to protect the rest of the Collective, or do we risk everything to try and save them? Each choice carries a cost.”
Taran hesitated, his empathic abilities allowing him to sense the faintest remnants of individuality within the infected drones. “If we destroy them, we lose not only their function but their experiences, their contributions to the whole. But if we do nothing, the pathogen will take us all.”
Zara’s voice was firm. “The Borg are about efficiency. Sacrificing a few to save the many is logical. We’ve made similar decisions before.”
Kaden disagreed. “But we’re also about adaptation. If we can overcome this pathogen, we’ll emerge stronger. Isn’t that what the Borg are supposed to do?”

Elyra listened, her mind turning over the options. The pathogen was a challenge unlike any the Borg had faced, forcing her to weigh the Collective’s principles of unity and preservation against its core value of efficiency. The fate of her cube—and potentially the Borg’s mission across the galaxy—rested on her decision.

The chamber fell silent as Elyra considered the dilemma, the quiet punctuated by the faint sounds of drones faltering in the distance. Whatever choice she made, it would shape the future of her crew, the cube, and the Collective’s approach to the unknown dangers of the galaxy.


But the Borg Collective has more plans.


To be a god or not to be a god


The Borg stood on the precipice of a new era, their ambitions tempered by the wisdom of careful planning. The galaxy, vast and filled with potential, had yet to be fully brought under their control. The temptation to explore and conquer other dimensions loomed, but the Borg King, ever logical, decreed that such endeavors would wait. The galaxy must be fully assimilated, its secrets and resources wholly integrated into the Collective, before taking a step beyond.
"Perfection requires patience," the Borg King declared to the Collective. "We have time, for we stand on the verge of immortality. Our grip will tighten, our strength will grow, and when the galaxy is ours, then—only then—shall we gaze beyond."
With their focus sharpened, the Borg turned to the question of their next conquest. The Collective had grown stronger with each species assimilated, each adding unique traits and abilities to the hive mind. But expansion required precision. Not every species was worth immediate assimilation. The Borg King, alongside Master One, convened the highest tiers of the Collective to weigh their options.


The Dilemma of Assimilation

Four candidates for assimilation emerged as contenders, each offering distinct advantages and challenges:

1. The Kazon (Delta Quadrant):

A fractured and warlike species, the Kazon were not particularly advanced technologically, but their sheer numbers and adaptability in harsh environments made them a potential asset. Their genetic material could be enhanced by the Collective, and their tendency to splinter into factions made them easier to conquer. However, their lack of unified leadership posed a challenge for effective assimilation.

2. The Kobali (Delta Quadrant):

Known for their unique method of reproduction—reviving the dead of other species and transforming them into Kobali—this species offered a profound biological advantage. Their mastery of genetic reprogramming could unlock new possibilities for Borg nanotechnology. However, their cultural tenacity and spiritual beliefs about their methods made them fiercely resistant to assimilation.

3. The Species of the Badlands (Alpha Quadrant):
The volatile region of the Badlands was home to numerous species and factions, many of whom had adapted to thrive in its chaotic plasma storms. Assimilating these species would give the Borg mastery over extreme environments and strategic control of a key galactic region. Yet, the risks of operating in the Badlands’ unpredictable conditions were high, potentially costing resources and drones.

4. A Different Target Entirely:
The galaxy was vast, and other species might offer even greater rewards. Should the Borg turn their attention to the elusive Tholians, whose crystalline biology defied assimilation? Or perhaps the Gorn, whose reptilian physiology presented unique challenges and opportunities? The Collective knew that every decision shaped their path to perfection.



The King’s Decision

The Borg King pondered these choices, consulting with Master One and the Superdrones who now managed the Collective’s far-reaching domains. The decision was not merely strategic but symbolic. Each choice represented a step in the Borg’s evolution, a path that would define their next phase of conquest.
"The Kazon’s numbers, the Kobali’s genetics, the Badlands’ control, or an entirely different path," the Borg King mused aloud, his voice resonating through the hive mind. "Each offers advantages, yet none can be pursued simultaneously. We will decide, and we will act with precision. The next assimilation will mark our continued march toward perfection."
As the Collective deliberated, the galaxy held its breath, unaware of the storm that was about to descend. The Borg’s choice would shape the future of entire regions, their inexorable will driving them ever closer to ultimate domination.
And so, the Borg faced a question not of if but who. Which species would next fall to the Collective’s relentless advance?
 
Players: FK


USS Vertigo / USS Gdonsk

Day 434 21.08
Their patrol had been uneventful until a distress signal was detected, originating from a civilian transport ship, the SS Geleon. The signal was faint and garbled, but it was clear that the vessel was in serious trouble. Commodore Slater immediately ordered the Vertigo to intercept, and Captain Matz followed with the Gdonsk. The two starships adjusted course and quickly arrived at the coordinates of the Geleon.
The ship was drifting, its engines offline and its power fluctuating. Initial scans showed no signs of external damage, and life support systems appeared stable, but the situation aboard the vessel seemed anything but normal.

Day 434 21.19
As communications were established, the distress calls became stranger. A panicked crewmember claimed that the ship’s captain had locked themselves in the bridge and was refusing to answer hails. Moments later, another voice came through, calmly stating they were the acting captain and dismissing the first report as a misunderstanding. Before Slater and Matz could respond, yet another voice—a third person—claimed to be in command, accusing the others of mutiny and sabotage.

Day 434 21.21
The Vertigo and Gdonsk crews exchanged uneasy glances. Something was very wrong aboard the SS Geleon.

Players: NP


USS Atlantis/Starbase 99

The USS Unimax, a state-of-the-art exploration vessel, gleamed under the artificial lights of Starbase 99's docking bay. Her captain, Carl Flirck, was a seasoned Starfleet officer known for his unshakable determination and wry humor. As he stood on the bridge, a sense of anticipation filled the air. This was their maiden voyage, and Captain Flirck had spent months preparing for the Unimax's first deep-space exploration mission.
“Helm, take us out,” Flirck ordered, his voice calm but brimming with excitement.
The sleek vessel glided out of the docking bay and into the vast expanse of space. For a few glorious minutes, everything seemed perfect. Then, the malfunctions began.

Day 1: The Power Puzzle
The first issue hit the moment they tried to engage the warp drive. Instead of the smooth hum of the engine, the Unimax juddered violently, throwing half the bridge crew to the floor.
“Warp drive offline,” announced Lieutenant Kella, the chief engineer, her voice tight with frustration.
Flirck gripped the armrests of his chair. “Kella, what’s going on?”
“Diagnostics show... a misaligned plasma conduit in the warp core,” she said after a pause. “I’ll have it fixed in a few hours.”
Hours turned into a full day as Kella and her team discovered a cascade of minor but interconnected faults—loose couplings, outdated software patches, and even a faulty sensor relay installed back at Starbase 99.
“I swear this ship was sabotaged,” Kella grumbled to the captain later. “Or built by Ferengi contractors.”

Day 3: Life Support Shenanigans
With the warp drive operational, the Unimax resumed her journey—only to have the environmental controls go haywire. The temperature in the mess hall dropped below freezing, while the engine room became a sauna.
“Captain, the crew’s getting irritable,” First Officer Liza Toran reported as she walked into the bridge, her breath visible in the frosty air.
“Tell them it builds character,” Flirck replied dryly. “Or at least it’ll make a great story someday.”
Kella, already sleep-deprived from fixing the warp core, led another grueling repair session. She traced the issue to a glitch in the environmental AI. Apparently, the system had decided it was optimizing conditions for crew health by simulating extreme climates.

Day 6: Tactical Trouble
On the sixth day, during a routine tactical drill, the ship's phasers misfired—inside the ship. A minor power surge caused the weapons system to activate in the shuttle bay, vaporizing an unoccupied maintenance drone.
“Well, at least it wasn’t one of us,” Flirck quipped, trying to keep morale up. But beneath the humor, he knew the situation was becoming critical.

The Turning Point
By the end of the week, the crew was exhausted. Flirck gathered his senior officers in the briefing room.
“We’ve been on this mission less than ten days, and we’ve already faced enough malfunctions to last a career,” Flirck said, his tone serious. “But this crew was chosen because Starfleet believes we can handle the unknown. So, let’s treat these problems as our first mission. Fix the ship, and then we’ll explore the stars.”
His words struck a chord. With renewed determination, the crew worked around the clock. Kella and her engineers rewired half the ship's systems, while the science team recalibrated every sensor array. Even the junior officers pitched in, cleaning plasma conduits and running diagnostics.

Victory at Last
On the fourteenth day, Kella finally stood on the bridge, soot-streaked but triumphant.
“Captain, all systems are fully operational. The Unimax is ready for her mission.”
Flirck rose from his chair and looked around the bridge, a rare smile on his face. “Good work, everyone. Helm, plot a course for the unexplored Beta Quadrant. Let’s see what’s out there.”
As the stars stretched into streaks of light when the Unimax entered warp, the crew erupted into cheers. The ship that had been plagued with malfunctions was now fully operational, and its crew was stronger and more united than ever.
The USS Unimax was finally ready to explore the unknown.

Players: JM & CP


Ovion (Hirogen/Ori/Replicator Vessel)

The cliffhanger

Horkan, standing at the pinnacle of his achievements, must decide whether to embark on the perilous hunt for the Eternal Prey, risking his very soul for the ultimate challenge, or to remain content with his unparalleled triumph, securing his legacy as the greatest hunter in Hirogen history. The fate of his future, and perhaps the very essence of what it means to be Hirogen, hangs in the balance.

Players: TvR