Star Trek: Independence

“The Machines of War”

By: Damon Nixon

Author’s Note:  I have a confession.  I was a Transformers fan before I was a Star Trek fan.  I love them both.  I think a crossover story is doable.  In fact, I think it could be good. (hopefully J)  The following is my effort in that regard.

This is not the first time a Transformer/Star Trek story has been posted.  Admiral2 posted one a few months ago for a monthly challenge.

I’m going to take a different path than that author did.  I’m drawing upon several different incarnations of Transformers.  I’m cherry-picking what I think is most ‘believable.’  It’s heavy in Generation 1 and the War Within comics with some 2007 movie mixed in.  (If you don’t know what that means, don’t worry; the story should still be fun.)

I envision the Transformers’ bodies in this story to be blend of G1 and movie style. (i.e. the characters’ bodies are more complex and intricate, but they are at least recognizable as their G1 counterparts.)  None of the Transformers have “Earth forms,” instead, they have Cybertronian equivalents.

I hope you enjoy it.  I’m certainly having a blast writing it!

Btw, Paramount owns both Star Trek and Transformers! J

*****

There is no instance of a country having benefited from prolonged warfare.

~Sun Tzu

PROLOGUE

Stardate: 54031.2 (12 January 2377)

USS Independence, Main Lounge

Sector 32981 (Unclaimed Space between the Federation and the Tamarian Republic)

“Captain’s Log: We’ve been traveling rim ward, practically non-stop, for almost three months to return our Tamarian exchange officer.

We’ve left Federation space behind.  Before us, is a region that has been explored very little.  The crew is hoping Starfleet will cut us loose for awhile after we drop D’nas off and we can do some exploring.  I must admit, the prospect of becoming an explorer is…something I’ve never really considered before.”

*****

“Jinal’s,” the Independence’s lounge, had become rather popular since the re-launch of the vessel.  It was named as a tribute to the fallen hero that saved thirty-eight crewmembers of Aurelia’s previous ship. 

At any given time, there were about 150 people onboard that were off-duty.  Of those, half slept.  A majority of the remaining 75 could often be found at “Jinal’s.”  The lounge had a wide variety of games including: a dom-jot table, a pool table, darts, 3D chess, and a table in one corner for an old Earth game, Dungeons and Dragons.  Luckily, Steamrunners sported a rather large lounge.     

There was a group of officers and crew that created an impromptu band.  It consisted of a Terran guitar and saxophone, a Risian lute, Caitain drums, and a Deltan harp.  They played nearly every night.  Unfortunately, they came from different musical backgrounds and produced some type of mutation between Caitian classical and Terran jazz.  All and all, it didn’t sound too bad.  It was at least…mellowing.

Unlike some other captains, Sintina Aurelia had no qualms about socializing with her crew.  Though, she still struggled to make any real connections to her new subordinates.  She was always one to make friends…and to trust…slowly.  Once you got in her good graces, however, she would protect you veraciously; even to her own detriment. 

Karim bin Nadal, the ship’s new executive officer, knew all too well about his captain’s quirks.  He, along with Lieutenant Kimula, were the only people on the ship that Sintina had elevated to the level of ‘friend.’ 

Everyone’s emotions were erratic since the destruction of the former Independence and the loss of two-thirds of her crew.  Sintina made every effort to keep her grief discreet, but didn’t attempt to hide her contempt for the situation.  She had been a particularly sour mood for a few days now.   

The trio all sat at a table; sipping drinks and listening to the music.  Although, she was off-duty, Captain Aurelia never really internalized the concept of separating work from recreation.  She leaned over to Karim, “Well, exec, you’ve had a few months to revaluate our crew.  What’s your opinion?”

He smirked at the question and attempted to lighten the mood at the table, “I’m not used to all these science personnel.”

Kimula, the Andorian counselor, chimed in, “Zian was telling me how happy he was to be in charge of an actual section; instead of just 3 people, like on the old Indy.”

“The ‘old Indy,’ sighed Sintina, “is that what we’re calling her now?”

Kimula and bin Nadal shared a glance, knowing their attempt to perk up Sintina failed, once again.

The captain elaborated, “I’ve commanded three ships, in two years.  It doesn’t bode well.”

The Persian XO attempted to console her, “This is a good, sturdy ship.  We have a fine crew.  And we have a hell of a captain.”

“Here, here,” added the Andorian woman as she rose her glass.

Aurelia, however, continued to sulk, “Are you sure?  My stubbornness got our ‘old’ ship destroyed along with a good part of her crew.”

Kimula retorted, “Nonsense…”

“No, I mean it,” plowed Sintina, “I only got my first command because it was wartime and Captain Camar died.  Then, I was told to my face that the only reason I got that Courageous-class ship was because I was a non-thinking drone.  Now, I get my third command due to the pity of an influential admiral.  If it weren’t for all that, I’d be a first officer still…at best.”

The counselor had an edge to her words, “You’re being too hard on yourself, Sintina.  You’ve proven yourself against the Dominion, Cardassian insurgents, the Alshian…hell, we even bested a Sovereign under your leadership.”

The talking up wasn’t enough to bring Aurelia out of her funk, “A monkey could’ve been in charge of the ‘old Indy’ and won those battles.”  She listed off, “Since I assumed command of the Midas, I’ve lost two ships, alienated some of the most respected admirals and captains in the fleet, and let’s face it, this whole mission to return D’nas is to get me out of peoples’ hair.”

“No,” countered Karim, “it’s to bring our profile down a little.  It’s to protect us.”  He added, “Besides, you personally saved the president’s life.  So you have at least a few powerful allies.”

The captain unenthusiastically said, “Oh yeah, go me.”

Kimula could take no more of Sintina’s pouting.  She puffed and began to shake her head.  Then, addressed her captain, “Uh-uh, poor you.”  She raised her voice…a bit too much, “You’re not the only one who lost something, or someone, you self-centered…”  She managed to restrain her curse, but continued as she left her chair, “If that’s really how you feel, request a demotion like Windslow did.  At least, he stopped feeling sorry for himself.”

She didn’t give Aurelia a chance to respond.  Kimula turned and stomped out of the room. 

An uncomfortable silence followed between Karim and Sintina.  The first officer cleared his throat and stared at his drink.

The captain finally offered, “It’s your job to defend me against attacks like that now.”

Somberly and deliberately, he got out of his seat as well and stated, “No, it’s my job to make sure you hear it.”  He coolly walked away from the table, leaving Sintina alone. 

Aurelia glanced about to see if anyone overheard the exchange.  Luckily, no one seemed to notice…or knew enough to actively ignore it.  She ran her fingers through her hair, got up, and headed for the exit as well. 

*****

Sintina silently entered her quarters.  The cabin was only lit by streaks of passing star light.  She sat on the couch next to the windows and stared out into space.  She sighed deeply, rested her head on her arm, and quietly said, “goddamnit.”

END OF PROLOGUE

CHAPTER 1

Stardate: 54033.6 (13 January 2377)

USS Independence, Main Engineering

Sector 32981

The type-V matter/anti-matter reactor had recently been replaced when the ship was at dry-dock.  The vertically aligned core pulsed with a steady beat.  While it was fully operational, every engineer knew it took months to ‘fine tune’ a new reactor. 

The unique design of the Steamrunner produced some unique problems.  Few Starfleet ships incorporated warp nacelles into the primary hull.  Only Saber, Defiant, and Steamrunner classes had the feature.  These vessels produced a distinctive warp field compared to ships with more traditional outboard nacelles.  Also, warp stresses on the hull necessitated a certain amount of ‘over-engineering.’  Not to mention other particular traits that engineers at a ship yard don’t consider…

“My room always glows red from the Bussard collector, Commander!” complained Doctor Zo’Kama. 

Ethan Windslow regarded her with only a hint of annoyance as he rolled his stool to another station.  “I’m sorry I haven’t gotten to it yet, doctor.”

“Not to mention,” continued the Arkonian, “the medical concerns of prolonged exposure to all the particles they suck in.”

Ethan rolled his eyes, “Doctor, the ramscoops only usually ‘suck in’ hydrogen.  Besides which, the hull and SIF will protect the crew from anything dangerous we might collect.”

The usually light-hearted, reptilian officer seemed unconvinced.  She pressed, “And the light pollution?”

With a sigh, he conceded, “Alright, I’ll have someone adjust the transparent aluminum to filter out the light from the collectors.”

The Arkonian grinned, exposing a mouth of incisors, “Thank you, Commander.”  Having accomplished her goal, she turned and returned to her default setting of merriment and exited.  Though, she was careful to make sure Windslow didn’t see it.

As she left, Windslow allowed himself an inner joke involving crew quarters and red lights.  A rare grin emerged.  He quickly went back to work.

*****

Deck one of the Steamrunner-class Independence consisted of: the bridge, the captain’s ready room, the conference lounge, a head, and a few storage lockers.  The lounge was directly aft of the bridge and the ready room was starboard of it.

The bridge differed significantly from the command center on the former Indy.  The executive officer or counselor didn’t have a designated station on the bridge.  Karim, however, often manned the mission operations post and since Kimula also served as the communications officer, it wasn’t an issue.  Instead of sharing the forward ‘pit’ with the helm, the tactical station was a free-standing post behind the captain’s chair.  There was a separate internal security station to the left of the tactical position. 

Aurelia emerged from the turbolift…the crew new better than to announce her arrival.  Tang Zian turned from the science station, “Good morning, ma’am.” 

She waved an acknowledging hand in the young officer’s direction as she made her way to her office. 

The Asian persisted, “Ma’am, I have a request.”

Sintina paused, “And what’s that, Lieutenant?”

He indicated to her to look at his display, “During the night shift, Ensign Chattopadhyay noticed something odd.”

“What?” Sintina inquired.

Bringing up a scan result, Tang explained, “It’s some huge metallic mass in interstellar space, 1.2 light years away.  It’s almost as big as Mars.”

She leaned in, “Any guesses?”

The chief science officer vocalized what he had already considered, “Well, its way too small to be a Dyson’s Sphere.  And I doubt it’s a natural phenomenon.”

“Could it be a Borg Sphere?”

He shook his head, “I don’t think so, Captain.”

She looked over at him with a small smile, “You’re just chomping at the bit to go investigate, aren’t you?”

A smirk developed.  “Yes, ma’am,” he admitted. 

The captain bobbed her head in consideration.  She would have to make the transition from a war mindset to one of exploration eventually.  Her curiosity wasn’t peaked but seeing the desire for knowledge in Zian’s eyes, and the fact they were ahead of schedule, persuaded her.  “Oh, why not?” she concluded.  She stood and looked to the helm, “D’nas, adjust course to intercept that…metal planet.”

*****

Opposite Captain Aurelia’s desk, sat a plush soft leather couch; Kimula plopped onto it, “You wanted to see me?”

Sintina looked up from a padd she was reading.  She simply stated, “Thanks for the kick in the ass.”  She returned to the report, “Dismissed.”

One of the Andorian’s antenna popped up.  She shook her head and found herserlf grinning with incredulity.  She could tell Sintina had no intention of speaking to her further.  …It didn’t matter; her outburst last night had the desired effect.  Barely satisfied with her friend’s version of an apology, Kimula walked out in silence.

*****   

The double doors to main engineering parted for First Officer bin Nadal.  He asked a passing crew member to point him in the direction of the chief engineer.  Karim made his way to the lower level and found Lieutenant Commander Windslow partially hidden by the Jefferies tube he was in.  “Commander.”

Without looking to see who it was, the response came, “Yeah.”

Bin Nadal squatted down so he could look into the tube, “Commander, Captain Aurelia wanted to schedule some ship wide tactical drills, but I wanted to know your maintenance schedule, so they don’t conflict too much.”

Ethan maneuvered to see Karim’s face, “That’s…considerate, Commander.  I’ll send it to you within the hour.”

“Thanks.”

Windslow ventured as bin Nadal began to rise, “How are you liking command?”

The XO admitted, “It’s a pain to coordinate everybody.”  He returned the question, “How about you?  How do you like being an engineer again?”

Still half hanging out the maintenance tube, “I don’t regret the decision.  It’s where I belong.”

Bin Nadal nodded.  He hesitantly inserted, “I know you and I have had our disagreements in the past.  I hope it doesn’t interfere with our new working relationship.”

The chief engineer averted his eyes for a moment but then rested them on his new superior, “You once told me that I didn’t belong in the uniform.  …You were half right.  I didn’t belong in that red one.  I’m not ashamed to admit that.”

Karim absently examined the deck.  He regretted being so judgmental.  Yes, what Windslow did was inexcusable…but not necessarily unforgivable.  He looked up with genuine concern on his face, “Have you had any trouble with anyone?”

Ethan knew the commander’s meaning.  Bin Nadal wanted to know if any of his engineers showed him disrespect due to his conviction of desertion and conduct unbecoming.  The chief engineer bit his lip, “Some.”

“Who?”  Bin Nadal surprised himself at how quickly he came to his former first officer’s aid.

Windslow was careful with his words, “With respect, I can handle it, sir.”

Karim was split on what to do.  Ultimately, he accepted his chief engineer’s judgment, stood, and reluctantly left. 

Commander Windslow took a long sigh…then, returned to work. 

END OF CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

Supplemental

USS Independence, Main Bridge

Sector 32981

Lieutenant Virak came over with the rest of the bridge crew from the last Independence.  The ebony skinned Vulcan’s board lit up with an indicator.  She reported from behind the center seat.  “We’re in visual range of the rogue planet.”

Sintina uncrossed her legs and sat up, “On screen.”

The viewer came to life.  A jagged, chrome-colored sphere hung in the depths.  No lights emanated from it.  Very little detail could be seen, but there was a huge crater on the surface.  It didn’t appear to be an impact crater…rather the remnants of an explosion from the bowels of the planet. 

“Magnify and light enhance,” ordered the captain.  Despite herself, she became intrigued by the sight. 

More details could now be seen.  The surface consisted of buildings, deep abysses, and roadways.  There was no movement.  Everyone on the bridge gazed at screen.

Bin Nadal turned from the mission ops station, “What is it, Zian?”

Tang spun back to his station displays and began processing the information from the scans.  “It looks like the entire planet was built up on a large asteroid,” he reported.  “…It has layers.  Like they just kept on building new upon old until it got this massive.  My scans are being hampered by widespread use of magnesite in the metals.”

Aurelia, not understanding the significance of the magnesite, commented, “It looks abandoned.”

“I agree,” concurred Tang.  “I’d guess its mean age is about ten million years.”

Karim pondered aloud, “I wonder if it’s always been here.”

“No,” the science officer rejoined, “it’s moving at nearly 10 million KPH, relative to most of the stars in the galaxy.  It could have had time to travel halfway around the Milky Way by now.”

“Can you trace back its trajectory?” came from Aurelia.

Tang did some calculations, “Assuming it’s been at a constant speed, somewhere in star cluster 3478-H in the Gamma Quadrant.”

A small smirk emerged on Aurelia’s face.  She began to feel a sensation.  It was the excitement of exploration, she determined.  ‘I could get used to this’  She turned to address her science officer, “What conditions should an away team expect?”

“Ma’am?” immediately objected bin Nadal.

Zian ignored the first officer, “We couldn’t transport down due to the magnesite.”

Karim stepped closer, “It interferes with sensors and transporters?”

“Yes sir.”

The Persian gave a disapproving look to his captain.  He knew Sintina saw it, but she persisted.

“How about surface conditions?”

“EVA suits would be required,” he elaborated.  “Gravity is one-half G.  …It has a thin atmosphere of helium and other interstellar gases that it’s probably pick up along its journey.  The temperature is about 150 degrees below zero.”

Karim was less subtle this time.  He walked close to Sintina and whispered, “If something happens, we won’t be able to beam up the away team.” 

She looked over and mused, “You weren’t this uptight when you were a security officer.”

He quickly came back with, “Sure I was.”

Aurelia dismissed his concerns, “We’ll be fine.”

“We?”

The captain made her way to the turbolift, “Tang, D’nas, Virak, you’re with me.”

Bin Nadal said as forcefully as he could without causing a scene, “Ma’am.  It’s inappropriate for you to lead the away team.”

Sintina obviously anticipated his response.  She continued walking, “It’s a dead planet, what could happen?”

Karim debated to dissuade her, but doubted he could.  It was just like Sintina to jump into the thick of any excitement she could find.  He wondered if he could ever train her to be a ‘stay-at-home’ captain.  Defeated, he grabbed Virak for a moment and said, “You’re responsible for her safety, Lieutenant.”

The Vulcan female somberly curtsied, “Of course, sir.”

*****      

The type-eight shuttlecraft flew low over the crumbled, metallic surface of the planet.  It was obvious a conflict occurred there.  All of the structures were in disrepair.  Some had large chunks missing from them. 

Aurelia and Tang manned the consoles; Virak and D’nas were in the aft compartment. 

The four members of the away team wore the standard issue Extra-Vehicular Activity suits, minus the helmets and gloves. 

A light flashed on Tang’s board.  He reported, “Now that we’re closer, I’m picking up a few faint energy sources scattered on the planet.”

D’nas, the Tamarian exchange officer, spoke up, “What type of energy?”

The Asian science officer worked his station, “I’m not sure.  They’re barely reregistering with all the interference from the magnesite.  It could be something left over from what ever civilization used to live here.”

Virak hypothesized, “Could they be mines or weapons?”

He shrugged, “I really can’t tell.  It could be something as harmless as a power generator of some type.”

The exchange officer chimed in, “It’s a testament to who ever built this that there are any energy signatures left at all, after all this time.”

“You don’t think anyone has taken up residence here, do you?” questioned the captain.

“I don’t see how, ma’am,” offered Tang, “I can’t imagine anything surviving on that planet, unless it had a lot more power than I’m reading.”

Settling in to her new role as explorer, Sintina concluded, “Well, one way to find out.”  She looked over at Zian, “Where do you recommend we set down?”

He glanced at his display, “The power signatures appear to be concentrated in the polar regions.”

“Ok, heading for the nearest pole,” commented Aurelia as she manipulated her console.

END CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3

Supplemental

Shuttlecraft Welker

Uncharted Planet

The magnetic seal of the shuttlecraft hatch broke and it slowly lowered to the ground with a clang.  The away team exited, now fully adorned in their EVA suits.  Each suit had an external audio receiver in addition to the com link.  The team’s boots grabbed the metal surface slightly with each step.         

Beyond the movement of the team, there was no sound.  The only light came from the suits, the shuttle, or the distant stars.  They were surrounded by structures of various shapes and sizes; all in different stages of collapse.  They landed on, what probably had been, some type of roadway.  Now, it was littered with debris and pot-marked.  The holes exposed some type of circuitry and another space under the road.  Despite the damage, the structure seemed stable. 

The young Tamarian officer slowly took in his surroundings.  The chrome landscape was spectacular against the backdrop of the space.  He uttered, “It’s beautiful.”

Aurelia saw it from another perspective, “Whoever was here certainly trashed the place.”

D’nas finished her captain’s thought, “Most likely, they destroyed themselves.”

“Not necessarily,” commented the Virak, the only security officer present, “They could have been raided…they could have fled.  There is not enough information to come to a conclusion.”

Zain allowed himself to look up from his scans for the first time, “Can you imagine the structural engineering required to build this place?”

Captain Aurelia noticed something etched into a nearby structure.  She walked closer.   “Tang, come here.”

The lieutenant joined her seconds later.  He didn’t have to ask what she wanted.  The etchings seemed to be some type of glyphs.

“Can you translate the markings on the building?” she asked.

He was already running them through the translation matrix via his tricorder.  “It reads: Kaon cosmotron production facility two.”  He surmised, “I guess Kaon is where we are…and I have no idea what a cosmotron might be.”  The officer began to add up all the information he’d gathered to this point and ventured, “If I were to guess, I’d say this whole planet served as a massive factory.”

“Producing what?” inquired the Vulcan security chief.

Zian’s head shook in his helmet, “I don’t know, yet.”

*****

A shadow moved quickly and effortlessly in the darkness. 

<Ravage reporting.  The unknown craft has landed 3.68 decavun’s due east of Kolkular.>

<Acknowledged.  Perform further reconnaissance.>

<Confirmed.  Proceeding.>

*****

Karim sat uncomfortably in the command chair.  He was annoyed at Sintina.  As leader of the away team, she should’ve reported by now.  He ordered Kimula to open a channel.  “Independence to away team.”

“Aurelia here.” 

Her voice was too innocent.  Karim considered if she was deliberately trying to agitate him by not following protocols.  “Just wanted to check on your status, Captain.”

“We’re about ready to investigate some power signatures.  Are you picking them up?”

The lieutenant commander looked over to the science officer on duty.  The ensign indicated a negative.  “No ma’am.”

“The tricorders can’t pick them up, either.  The shuttle must have the right combination of sensitivity and proximity.”

The first officer added, “I’d like to recommend a regular report interval.”  He knew the request would be interpreted as a complaint about her lack of communication.  In the pause before her response, Karim was sure she rolled her eyes.

“Fine.  You’ll hear from me every ten minutes.”

“Thank you, ma’am,” bin Nadal responded, “Independence out.” 

*****

Other than the very slight hum servos, it advanced smoothly and quietly.  The constant darkness wasn’t an issue for the machine.  Its red optical sensors could process information in the absence of light.  Ravage’s navigational systems calculated every step, every leap.  It tracked its prey with cold efficiency. 

The cat-like creature crawled to the edge of the roof and observed the movement below.  The main threat didn’t seem to be sentient.  The other four had appendages and seemed to move with purpose.  Ravage couldn’t determine if they were biological, technological, or some combination of the two. 

<Visual confirmation.  The craft held four occupants.  The vessel does not appear to be an Autonomous.>

<Do not underestimate the vessel.  It could a rebel returning from exile.  Do you see a brand on it?>

<Negative.  Request authorization to engage.>

<Authorization granted.  Reinforcements are en-route to your location.  ETA:  1.2 cycles.>

*****

All four members of the away team were now several meters from the shuttle.  Aurelia and Tang continued to examine a building.  D’nas collected samples for a metallurgical analysis.  Virak stood vigil over the other three. 

The Vulcan decided to bring up a topic she considered more urgent.  “Lieutenant Tang, have you been able to localize the source of the power signatures you detected earlier?”

He turned, “Not yet, I got distracted with these hieroglyphs.”  The Asian began moving to the craft, “I’ll need to use the shuttle’s sensors.”

As he neared it, a pair of rockets came from seemingly nowhere.  Both hit the shuttle in rapid succession.  The resulting explosion flung the science officer into the air.  He landed some distance away and rolled to a stop.  He didn’t get up. 

The fireball didn’t exist long in the absence of oxygen.  What was left was a half-melted hulk. 

Once the shrapnel was no longer a threat, Aurelia and Virak drew their hand phasers and surveyed the area.  D’nas ran, as fast as his suit would allow, to aid Tang. 

“Where the hell’d that come from!” blurted Aurelia. 

The response was more reserved, yet trepidation could be heard in Virak’s voice, “I’m not sure, ma’am.”

In mid-step, D’nas got plowed down by some massive force and it pinned him to the ground.  He didn’t know what it was but he called out, “Help! Get it off me!  Get it off me!”

Both Virak and Sintina heard the cries over their headsets.  They turned to see…what looked like a large black and silver cat on top of the helm officer. 

Aurelia ran toward the scene, but her magnetic boots slowed her progress.

Virak used a bit more ingenuity.  She deactivated her boots and moved with an otherwise unnatural gait. 

The Tamarian struggled futilely against the robotic beast.  The creature now clamped down with its jaws on his helmet.  He heard its artificial growl.  The monster’s fangs left circular cracks in his visor.  The sound of the fracturing only served to engulf him in panic.  He flapped about helplessly against the heavy machine.  

Sintina decided to stop her approach and leveled her phaser.  She fired and hit the mechanical cat.  The response was not what she hoped for.  It only looked at her with its piercing, red eyes and made a synthetic roar.  The captain quickly determined, “Stun doesn’t work.”

The pressure against D’nas’ chest from the robot’s paw prevented him from breathing.  Long cracks now ran across his field of vision.   

The Vulcan reactivated her boots in mid leap and was pulled the metallic road.  She adjusted her phaser to level 12, enough to disrupt ultra-dense alloys.  She aimed carefully and discharged the weapon. 

This time, it achieved the desired result.  The cat was hit in the side and it created some type of digitized howl.  The phaser beam left a three centimeter hole in the automaton’s armor.  It immediately jumped off D’nas and retreated to the shadows. 

Virak reached the Tamarian first.  He propped himself up with his elbows, but she instructed him to lay down for the moment and relax.  Tang still lay motionless a few meters away. 

The captain activated her long-range communicator, “Aurelia to Indy!”

“Independe…”

“We’ve been attacked.  The shuttle’s gone, Tang and D’nas are injured.  We need extraction, now!”

There was no hesitation in the reply, “You’ve got it.  I’m dispatching a shuttle now.  I’m also going to move into geosynchronous orbit and keep a visual on you.”

“The sooner the better, this planet is defiantly not dead yet.”

“Understood, I’ll leave this line open”

Aurelia joined Virak.  The two made a perimeter around the wounded.  “What do you think that thing was?” she asked.

The tactical officer guessed, “Perhaps an automated defense system.”

“What the hell was I thinking,” the captain chided herself, “going into what I knew was a former war zone.”

The Vulcan only observed, “It would not be the first time the machines of war outlasted their users.”

“What’s that?” came from D’nas.

“I feel it too,” concurred Virak. 

The Latino captain could feel it now as well.  It was a slight vibration on the road.  It grew. 

Sintina assumed the worst, “We need to find a more defensible position.”

“Agreed.  However, I don’t think we have time to…”

A large vehicle rounded a distant corner.  It was a type of treaded tank.  It was purple in color and the cannon atop it rotated in their direction.

Aurelia’s stomach fell, “Aww, mierda.”

END OF CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4

Supplemental

USS Independence, Main Bridge

In Orbit of an Unnamed Planet

Bin Nadal heard the profanity over the line.  “Captain, what it it?”

Sintina ignored the question.  She had other priorities.  Her voice could still be heard, however.  “Virak, get Tang out of here!  D’nas, cover them.”

“What about you, Captain?”

“Don’t worry about me.  Get the hell outta here!”

Karim jumped in, “Captain, don’t anything stupid.”  He grimaced once he realized how that came out.

“Too late,” was the response.

He felt so useless.  The Persian attempted raise his captain’s hopes.  “The recovery team should be there in a few minutes and the Indy should have line of sight to you momentarily.”

*****

The tank rolled closer.  It would surely have heavier armor than that cat-thing.  Sintina took cover behind some rubble and ramped up her type-two phaser to level sixteen, maximum.   The rumble became more intense. 

The captain saw her three crewmembers find a good position about a hundred meters away, out of sight of the tank.  The concealment wouldn’t last…not for her…not for the others.  She had a choice to make.  These defense system robots probably wouldn’t react to diplomacy.  The only way to delay this thing would be to engage it; distract it.  The tank wasn’t far now.  Sintina closed her eyes and took one deep breath as she grasped her phaser.  Then, she rose up and shot the machine. 

The beam of phased energy took a satisfying chunk out of the vehicle’s hull.  A gooey blue substance leaked out of the wound. 

The tank almost immediately returned fire with its main gun, which expelled a plasma burst.  The plasma struck the pile of scrap Sintina hid behind.  She, and the rest of the debris, hurtled away from the explosion.  Luckily, none of the fragments compromised her suit. 

Virak witnessed Captain Aurelia land with a dull thud on the metal deck.  The Vulcan debated whether to leave D’nas and Tang, or to aid her. 

If it hadn’t been for the helmet, Sintina was sure she would’ve been dead.  With a cough, she pushed herself up.  She looked directly at the tank now.  It seemed to look at her.  She realized she was at the mercy of this thing.  She had no cover and no doubt had a cracked bone or two.  God only knew where her phaser had flown to. 

With a jolt, the tank rushed forward.  It was heading directly for Aurelia. 

“It’s not going to bother shooting me,” Sintina grimly thought.  She struggled to fight the pain, but with her injured body, she wouldn’t be able to move fast enough.

When the vehicle was mere meters away, pieces of it began to shift.  It turned into a mass of moving parts.  It happened so quickly, Sintina found herself staring intently to catch some of the details of what was happening to it.  It was a blur of clanking metal.  A new form took shape; a humanoid form. 

The captain didn’t even fully register what just occurred when she found herself in the grip of this…huge thing.  It lifted her up to its ‘face,’ which consisted of a single red beacon. 

The UT wasn’t used, somehow the creature spoke Federation standard.  Its voice seemed almost…regal, “I am Shockwave, guardian of Cybertron.  Explain you purpose here, flesh creature!”         

Sintina was still in shock.  Her mind raced to catch up to current events.  She uttered, “United Fed…Explorers…”

“Insufficient!” it barked.

A phaser blast shredded into Shockwave’s left shoulder, causing the nearly ten meter tall machine to step back to regain his balance.  He quickly found the hostile target, another bio-intruder.  He brought around his right arm, which lacked a ‘hand,’ but instead boasted the same plasma cannon that shot at Aurelia earlier. 

For a fleeting moment, Virak was pleased with herself.  The colossal machine seemed damaged.  It didn’t take long, however, for her to conclude she took the wrong course of action.  It recovered quickly…too quickly.  “Dakh'uh pthak,” she had time to say.  It was one of Surak’s teachings.  It meant: cast out fear.  The last thing she saw was a bright light. 

Aurelia watched as the body of her chief tactical officer scattered into various chunks of tissue.  “God damn you!” she cursed. 

The giant robot’s feet clanked as he stepped.  He took a look at Virak’s remains, “Disgusting.”  He returned his focus to Aurelia, “There were two others.  Where are they?”

“Kiss my ass!” responded an infuriated Sintina. 

Shockwave’s ‘hand’ was more of a four taloned claw.  It squeezed Sintina.  She cried out as the vice began to crush her already battered body. 

“Flesh creatures,” the giant began, “It’s difficult to believe we were once subservient to pathetic organisms such as yourself.”  He eased his grip.  <Cyclonus, I’ve found biological beings trespassing on Cybertron.  Orbit the planet.  They might be part of a larger force.> 

<Very well, I’ll take some Seekers and patrol.>

*****

“Sir, we have a visual on the away team’s position,” reported Petty Officer Dorian from operations.

Karim jumped up, “On screen!”

The screen revealed more of the same, as far as this planet was concerned: ruins.  Then, he saw movement…something…walking. 

“Zoom in,” he commanded.  Bin Nadal’s eyes grew as the realization of what he was seeing sank in.  “My god.”  He looked aft, “Can the computer visually identify where our people are?”

Chief of the Boat, Hatora of J’bel, manned tactical.  “Yes sir. I’ll highlight their positions.”

Three yellow circles appeared on the main viewer: one in direct contact with the large automaton and two next to each other several meters away. 

Kimula voiced the question first, “Where’s the fourth member of the team?”

The Illyrian NCO answered the question with a reverent shake of the head.

The first officer began brainstorming, “Can we take that thing out without harming our own people?”

The chief consulted the computer for a moment, “We’d have to narrow the beams, adjust the power settings, and we’d have to be spot on the mark.  …It’d take a few minutes to set up, sir.”

“Do it,” ordered Karim.  He then looked at Dorian, “How long until the extraction team is on the ground?”

“Two more minutes, sir.”

The Persian returned to the image before him.  The mechanical creature turned the corner.  It was walking closer to the two other crew members.  “Not fast enough,” he mumbled to himself.

END OF CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

Supplemental

Near the Fortress of Kolkular

State of Kaon, Cybertron

D’nas hid just inside a damaged structure.  Tang was starting to become conscious.    He saw what happened to Virak.  The Tamarian still had his phaser, but doubted it would to anything other than give away their location.  The machine walked closer.  It held the captain in its one hand.  The situation seemed hopeless.  He ran through his options: do nothing and hope the robot passes them by…or…use the phaser.  Not to attack the giant, but to put the captain out of her misery; followed by Tang and himself.  The latter was perfectly noble in Tamarian civilization. 

The vibration of the footfalls became louder.  The exchange officer heard movement…not from outside, but from inside the abandoned building.  He swung his phaser around in the direction of the clatter.  ‘Was the cat-thing back?’  D’nas desperately tried to calm his breathing. 

Shockwave scanned very carefully as he moved.  The thought of these vile little creatures polluting his beloved Cybertron sickened him.  It wasn’t the first time biologics trespassed.  Most, like this one, claimed to be exploring.  ‘Exploring,’ in his mind, was simply another word for prospecting.  Some foolish flesh creatures even attempted to openly conquer his home.  Only to be driven out by his forces.  The rebels, on the other hand, never defended Cybertron from these intruders.  More often than not, the biologics were working with the insurrectionists.

Sintina began to rein in her emotions.  She felt totally impotent against the machine.  Her mind raced to think of someway…anyway to regain some measure of control over the situation.  In a desperate bid to save her crew, she offered, “They’re already gone.  We have the technology to transport matter through an energy conversion process.”

“A clever ploy, fleshling,” Shockwave responded, “that technology is not unique.  It is not by chance that Cybertron is rich in magnesite.” 

“Damn it.” The cold, metal claw clinched around her suit as punishment.  She blurted, “Why not just kill me!?” 

He didn’t like suffering the noises the insect made.  The response came, none the less.  “You may have information about the commercial brand.  If you volunteer it to me, I might let you leave.”

Aurelia hesitated, not knowing how best to play her cards…or lack thereof.  Shockwave’s attention, however, seemed to have focused on a meter tall hole in the side of the building next to them.  The massive machine took a knee and probed the hole with his cannon.  After a moment, he withdrew it, stood, aimed the plasma weapon at the breach.  He said, “I heard you in there.  Come out or I will destroy you.”

D’nas was forced to drag Tang away from the opening as the barrel of the cannon came through the hole.  In the process, he tripped over some debris and caused a small commotion.  Now, he held the phaser and debated.  He wasn’t sure if he could bring himself to kill his captain and friend.  A new option came to him.  If he set his phaser to overload, the explosion might be enough to disable the creature.  He knew of only one way to get it close enough to cause maximum damage.  Tang rustled, but wasn’t quite awake yet. 

D’nas set the phaser.  It would take about 15 seconds for it to build up enough power to explode.  Through his sacrifice, perhaps his Federation allies could escape.  Then, he put the weapon back into its holster and began to move to the breach.      

Several bright lights turned on from the shadows inside the building.  Some type of engine could be heard and the lights headed for the hole.  It was some type of heavy utility vehicle.  It gained speed quickly and rammed right through the already damaged wall.  The black ‘truck’ didn’t stop.  Instead it collided directly with Shockwaves left foot, causing him to topple. 

Only then did the truck shift in shape, revealing another humanoid robot.  It sported much smaller plasma cannons on each forearm.  It leveled both arms at the fallen Shockwave.  “Why don’t you pick on someone half your size!” it boasted.

“Trailbreaker,” Shockwave rejoined, “you’ve always talked too much.”  He brought his arm cannon to bear and fired.  The plasma burst slammed into Trailbreaker’s right arm, causing him to spin to the hard, metal ground.

D’nas observed the may lay.  He nearly forgot about his phaser.  Quickly, he stopped the energy build up and took aim. 

Shockwave’s joints whined in protest, but he managed to sit up.  He was assaulted again, this time by another fleshling.  The weapon burned through his left forearm and he lost control over one of this fingers.  The insect in his hand might escape.  ‘Enough of these games,’ he thought.  He aimed his cannon directly at the biologic.    

Sintina, fighting off the vertigo she received from the robot’s fall, still found herself in the grip of the metal monster.  Hope came to her, however, as the pressure from one of the talons eased.  She desperately tried to force the claw open. 

The Tamarian saw how this would play out.  He would be dead soon.  ‘At least, I can prevent the captain from being tortured.’  He pointed at Sintina. 

A missile struck Shockwave dead center in his torso.  Only Aurelia’s suit protected her from the heat of the blast. 

A red hovercar jumped off a nearby rooftop.  While in free fall, it converted into humanoid form and landed on its feet with a heavy thud.  It aimed its…what D’nas considered to be an oversized…plasma rifle at Shockwave.  “This is for Sun Streaker, you Decepticon slag!”

Trailbreaker got back up, a glowing, blue gelatin flowing from his damage.  He looked up to see two craft in the sky.  He didn’t have to ask what they were.  “We can’t stay here, Sideswipe.  Dirge and Skywarp are almost in range.  Evacuate those two biologics.”  He indicated D’nas and Tang.  “I’ll take care of Shockwave.” 

“But…” protested the red automaton.

“Now, before we both get blown to bits!” ordered the taller robot.

Reluctantly, Sideswipe backed down.  He moved closer to D’nas.  “Get in,” he said evenly, “and bring that other one with you.”  Without another word, the machine reverted back to its hovercar mode and opened its hatch. 

The young Tamarian stood in shock for several moments.  Again, the ‘car’ prodded him to enter.  Seeing no other alternatives, he did as he was instructed.  D’nas collected up Tang with relative ease and maneuvered his friend into the vehicle. 

Trailbreaker walked toward the damaged Shockwave.  The Decepticon seemed to be in status-lock, an emergency repair mode.  It was the closest thing to a coma that Cybertronians could experience.  The black machine trained the weapons on his good arm on the larger robot.  The biological being in Shockwave’s hand stopped struggling.  No doubt the creature was trying to figure out his intentions.  He had already scanned their small ‘tricorder’ devices and downloaded its language.  “It’s alright,” Trailbreaker offered, “we’re not going to hurt you.”

Sintina, not yet out of Shockwaves clutches, simply nodded.  It was then, the two fightercraft, the black one referred to as ‘Dirge’ and ‘Skywarp,’ opened fire.  Plasma bursts fell all around them.  She looked over at where D’nas and Tang where.  The red hovercar was already on the move. 

The ‘friendly,’ black one leaned over Shockwave to get Sintina.  When he did, the former tank, stuck his cannon into Trailbreaker’s frame.  Shockwave’s head went up, “Do you not understand the concept of deception, Autobot?”  The Decepticon fired.  The force of the blast pushed Trailbreaker several meters into the air.  The lifeless machine landed back on Shockwave.  The purple robot pushed the Autobot hulk off him as he stood.  He regarded his captive, “Now why would they care about you so much?”

The hope had ended as quickly as it came.  Sintina could only look up.  She imagined in her minds eye, photon torpedoes raining down on her location.  It was a scenario prayed for.  Death would be preferable than being totally helpless.  Her dream never came. 

The fighters strafed overhead.  Shockwave communicated, <Dirge, track Sideswipe.  Skywarp, intercept the incoming alien small craft.  Cyclonus, report.>

<I’ve found their mothership.  I’m waiting for more Seekers before we attack.>

<Acknowledged.  I’m returning to Kolkular for repairs with one of the flesh creatures.>

The Cybertronian guardian moved slowly to his destination.  One of his feet dragged slightly.

END OF CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 6

Supplemental

USS Independence, Main Bridge

In Orbit of Cybertron

Everyone on the bridge was transfixed to the events unfolding on the viewer.  After only a slight pause, Karim went into action.  “I want that…hovercar and the purple one tracked visually.”

“Aye sir,” confirmed Hatora. 

Kimula reported from communications, “Karim, the rescue shuttle says they’re under attack.”

“Patch me through to ‘em.”  An indicator tone sounded, “Independence to recovery team, what’s your status?”

“Our shields are holding against the plasma weapons, but if we lower them to make the extraction, no one will make it back.”

The first officer considered.  “Understood, the situation has changed.  Come back home.  We have to regroup and figure out what’s happening down there.”

“Aye sir, returning to ship.”

“Sir,” started the chief, “the purple tank-thing has gone into a heavily armored complex.  I’ve lost contact.”

“Damn…what about D’nas and Tang?”

Hatora checked, “The vehicle they’re in is traveling out of the area in a north-north westerly direction at nearly 200 kilometers per hour.”

Bin Nadal nodded, “Keep an eye on that complex and try to get some decent scans.”

“Yes sir.”

Karim then addressed Kimula, “Do we still have an open line to the captain?”

“No sir, the structure is now blocking the transmission.”

He puffed and ordered, “Try to hail Tang and D’nas.”

*****

Tang slowly became aware that he was moving…more like gliding.  He looked up out of the overhead window.  Several damaged bridges and structures passed his field of vision.  They were moving pretty fast.  He looked over to see D’nas, in a damaged EVA suit, sitting in a chair next to him.  D’nas looked at him somberly, “You’re not going to believe this,” he said. 

*****

<Scourge, take point,> commanded the purple and silver fighter, Cyclonus.

<Why me?> responded bulkier, light blue craft. 

<Because I said so, coward!  You aren’t intimidated by the fleshling’s ship, are you?>

<No!  It’s just…shouldn’t you be leading from the front?  You are second in command of our forces…> started Scourge.

Cyclonus corrected with reverence, <No, I’m third in command after Megatron and Shockwave.>

Thundercracker, another blue interceptor, broke in, <Megatron hasn’t been around in four million years.  He probably abandoned us for some energy rich world.>

<You will not speak of such things again, Thundercracker!> blared the group’s leader, <Megatron will return with enough energy to bring Cybertron back into a golden age!>

Ramjet, a white and red fighter, ended the tangent with, <Don’t we have bigger things to worry about?>

<Indeed,> concurred Cyclonus, <Accelerate to attack speed!>

Despite his objections, Scourge still found himself taking point.

*****

The tactical station lit up with contacts.  Hatora reported, “Sir, we have a new problem.”

Karim looked back and gave a ‘you’ve got to be kidding me’ look. 

The Chief of the Boat continued, “Seven fightercraft heading our way.”

“Is the recovery shuttle back yet?”

Hatora nodded, “It just docked.”

Bin Nadal gave a sigh of relief and requested, “Tactical assessment.”

The Illyrian cracked a smirk, “If they come at us with the same weaponry they attacked the shuttle with…”  He shook his head, “They won’t have a chance.  They don’t have any shields to speak of and their plasma cannons are about as powerful as what Earth’s Starfleet had in the early 22^nd century.”

The news prompted an evil grin from the first officer, “Time for a little pay back.  Target the lead fighter.”

*****

Scourge knew the most dangerous phase of the attack was about to begin: the rush to the intruder.  If he could only get close, the huge vessel probably wouldn’t be able to target him.  If need be, he could transform, land on the hull, and rip the ship apart with his bare hands. 

The alien vessel held station.  Six thousand kilovuns…two thousand…in firing range.  He opened up.  A dotted trail of plasma pulses hurtled toward the flesh creatures’ ship.  Just when they were about to make contact…they seemed to impact on some type of energy shield.  Cyclonus’ decision to have him take the lead now made sense. 

Then, Scourge noticed something else from the ventral side of the ship.  A long strip along its hull began to glow red from its ends.  Two lights met in the middle of the strip. 

Some distance behind Scourge, Cyclonus witnessed the beam of phased energy nearly vaporize his subordinate. 

<Their hull is protected by an energy barrier!> reported Thundercracker.

<That’s what I was afraid of,> was the reply from his leader.

Blitzwing, a member of their attack squadron, was the second to be annihilated by the organic’s vessel. 

Ramjet and Thundercracker managed to strafe the huge ship, but it made little difference.  Their attacks were easily absorbed by the forcefield. 

Thundercracker, the blue fighter, pleaded, <Cyclonus, we have to retreat!>

The task force leader observed a third Seeker turn into a brief fireball.  He reluctantly signaled the withdraw order.  He was able to scan the vessel, however.  The mission hadn’t been a total failure. 

***** 

“They’re backing off…they’re returning to the planet,” triumphantly reported the chief.

Karim felt rather proud as well, “Damage report.”

“Shields holding at 92 percent,” was the response.

The first officer watched as the remaining four fighters flew away.  “Come back anytime.”

END OF CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 7

Supplemental

USS Independence, Conference Lounge

In Orbit of Cybertron

After the attack, Karim bin Nadal gathered his resources in a hastily convened meeting.  He sat at the head of the curved, black marble-topped table. 

In addition to being the chief engineer, Ethan Windslow held the title of second officer.  He sat on Karim’s right.  Zo’Kama, the ship’s doctor, as well as Kimula and Chief Hatora were present. 

“The good news is: Tang and D’nas seem to be safe for the moment.”  Karim tapped his compin, “Can you hear me, Mr. D’nas?”

The audio activated. “Yes sir, I’m here.”

The Arkonian doctor immediately cut in, “What’s Lieutenant Tang’s condition?”

The science officer’s voice could be heard over the line, “I’m fine, doctor.  Sore…but fine.  I just got knocked out.  I might have a concussion.  I don’t know.”

“Do you have a med-kit?” she inquired as a slight look of annoyance crossed the first officer’s face.

“No.  It was in the shuttle.”

With a huff, the reptilian yielded to bin Nadal. 

The Persian instinctively seemed to address the ceiling.  “Has the…car you’re in told you where it’s taking you?”

*****

In Sideswipe’s cabin, D’nas saw a small display screen come to life.  It showed a map and what appeared to be a travel plan.  It came simultaneously with its explanation.

A slightly synthetic voice said, “Our forward scout post; it’s 41 kilometers from here on an azimuth of 004 if my current direction is the reference plane.  We should be there in 12 minutes.  …Any other questions?”

D’nas and Tang still didn’t quite know what to make of their situation.  There was a silent concern in both their minds.  Their rescue felt a bit like a kidnapping...or a set up.  After an uneasy pause, the Tamarian prompted, “Did you receive that, sir?”

*****

“Yes.”  bin Nadal rejoined.  “We’ll make that our landing spot.  The bridge will continue to monitor this line.  Take care of yourselves.”

“Understood, sir.”

The first officer transferred the communication back to the bridge.  He immediately commented, “Just because one faction seems to be friendly doesn’t mean I trust them.”  He looked at his senior chief, whom had over twenty years of security experience, “I want to take as many precautions as practical, Chief.”

Hatora picked it up, “We’ll do a fly over of the area before we set down.  We can also come much better prepared than the original away team did.  I recommend a full load out: tactical EVA suits, phaser rifles, photon grenade launchers.  If those things try anything, we’ll at least be able to fight back.”

The Andorian counselor leaned in, “It’s a shame we don’t have any fighters anymore.”

“There’s no point in wishing for things we don’t have.  Besides, the Type-10’s are the next best thing to fighters,” responded Windslow.

Bin Nadal refocused the group, “We’ll take two shuttles.  A Type-10 will provide cover for the landing team.”  He turned to Zo’Kama, “Doctor, you’re coming with me in the landing party.”  Next, he addressed the NCO, “Chief, I want you piloting the support craft.”  Then, to Windslow, “Commander, you’ll be in charge up here.  Be ready to provide us artillery fire.  We’ll decide our COA to recover Captain Aurelia if we get Tang and D’nas back without a problem.”  He stood, “Let’s go.”

*****

The Tamarian exchange officer had been ignoring the lateral, hairline crack that ran across his visor.  Some motion caught his attention out the right window.  Another white ‘car’ had pulled up beside them.  It was much boxier then Sideswipe.   D’nas sat up with a start, “What’s that other vehicle?”

Sideswipe vocalized, “Don’t worry about him.  He’s with me.”

*****

The new car transmitted, <What happened to Trailbreaker?>

<I’m not sure.  He wanted me to get these sentients safe.  I couldn’t go back for him.>

<Kup will understand,> was the somber response.

<Hold on, one of these creatures is asking questions about you.  Tap into my com system.  You can answer it yourself.>

*****

“Does it have a humanoid form like you?” asked Tang.  Any tenderness from his injuries was now pushed far from his mind.  His fear was overshadowed by his curiosity.  For all intents and purposes, for the first time since he joined Starfleet, he could be a real explorer.

A different voice entered the cabin.  I seemed a bit more mature sounding than Sideswipe’s, “Of course I do.”

“What are you…you robots?” piped up D’nas.

“Autonomous Robots to be precise, I’m called Wheeljack,” responded the new voice.

From Wheeljack’s tone, Lieutenant Tang made a supposition, “Autonomous Robots?  …Is that like a…a brand name?”

“These fleshlings catch on quick, uh, Wheeljack?” sarcastically observed Sideswipe.

The other vehicle professionally elaborated, “Autonomous Robotics was a manufacturing line for our creators, the Quintessons.  We prefer the term, Autobot.”

D’nas blurted untacticly, “Sideswipe…Wheeljack…both seem like odd names.”

Again, Wheeljack fielded the observation, “In our society, names aren’t permanent.  They are sometimes given as a reflection of your actions or attitudes.”

Zian added, “That’s not uncommon, D’nas.  Some American Indian tribes from Earth do the same thing.”

“Back in his day, ‘Swipe was a pretty good racer,” taunted Wheeljack.

“Back in my day?” repeated the sleeker vehicle with mock indignation.  “I can beat you without straining a servo.” 

A laugh was heard, “Of course you can.  I’m too busy fixing everyone else to optimize my own systems.”

Sideswipe chided, “Cry me a river, as the human saying goes.”

The science offer shuffled in his seat, “How do you know that saying?”

“I’ve been downloading information from your tricorder’s database,” the sporty car casually responded.

Suddenly feeling violated, Zian said, “You shouldn’t do that.  Some of that information is sensitive.”  He immediately questioned his decision to confront the powerful alien robot about it.

The Autobot engineer offered, “You’ll have to forgive us.  It’s just easier for us to get information about you that way.”

“It is better to plead for forgiveness than beg for permission, right Zian?” prompted Sideswipe.

Not sure how to respond, Tang drifted off, “Well…”

Fortunately, D’nas took the conversation to another topic, “So are there factions of Autobots?  Is that why that cat and purple-thing attacked us?”

The question quickly elicited a reaction from the sleek machine, “Aww, I should kick you out right now for calling that hunk of scrap an Autobot.”

Wheeljack took a much less combative approach, “What Sideswipe means to say is, the commercial line are the only ones referred to as Autobots now.  There was another Quintesson product of military robots.  We’ve called them Decepticons ever since they launched a sneak attack against Kaon nearly 9 million years ago.”

“And you’ve been at war with the military line ever since?” asked Tang.

“That’s right,” came from Wheeljack.

Sideswipe corrected, “War…hell.  We’re just trying to survive at this point.”

Tang wanted to follow up on the statement, but the Tamarian spoke up first.

“What ever happened to your creators, the Quintessons?”

The racer answered with pride, “We overthrew our slave masters long before the Great War.  They’re probably extinct by now.”

The exchange officer rejoined, “You were slaves?”

“Products…servants…slaves,” began the white vehicle, “Pick your term.  Both Autobots and Decepticons were sold to all kinds of species, for all types of reasons.”

Sideswipe added, “Until we forced the Quints to flee Cybertron.”

Tang questioned, “So what caused this ‘Great War?’”

“Typically, the military brand robots are bigger, stronger,” explained Wheeljack, “They decided they were superior to the commercial brand…and set out to take over the planet.”

The conversation stalled for a moment after the revelation.  A few seconds later, Wheeljack volunteered, “Where almost at the rally point.  Our cell’s commander, Kup, is waiting for us there.”

END CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

Supplemental

The Fortress of Kolkular

The State of Kaon, Cybertron

Fortress Kolkular was a large, elevated, domed complex.  Kaon and its fortress capitol were the first places on the planet to be secured once the military took their rightful place as stewards of Cybertron. 

Shockwave reflected somberly about those early days as he entered the heart of Decepticon territory.  All Cybertronians celebrated the end of Quintesson tyranny, but which brand did most of the work?  Which brand suffered the most losses?  …The Guardians…the Decepticons.

It wasn’t long before the ‘civilians’ wanted to control the actions of the military.  Why should the commercial brand have any say over a prize they did not win?  Megatron was the first to make the Guardians see how the military had removed one master, only to fight another.       

The massive Decepticon entered the space bridge control room.  The space bridge itself hadn’t been used in eons.  It had been an invention of the Golden Age of Cybertron.  Energy for the war effort drained their resources, however.  Now, there wasn’t enough energy on the whole planet to active the space-folding device.  The control room had become Shockwave’s personal lair.  Most of the time he, like most Cybertronians, sat idly in standby mode. 

 A few times a century, something required his attention.  Occasionally, an Autobot would be detected.  He would organize an attack party.  Sometimes the rebel would be destroyed…sometimes the Autobot would escape. 

Neither the Decepticons nor the Autobots had the energy to launch a respectable offensive.  The Cybertronians spent most of their active time desperately searching for any remaining energy sources on the planet.

In the past, the Autobots had gone the length of sending out distress calls to passing aliens.  Shockwave suspected that was the case with the fleshing he was holding now.  He carelessly dropped the creature.  It cried out as it hit the metal deck.

Sintina heard and felt two pops from her ankles as she landed.  There was no doubt they were broken.  She propped herself up as best she could and gazed at the giant.  The captain was amazed her EVA suit didn’t rupture.  She fought back the pain and surveyed her environment.  The machine had put her in the corner.  It was a cavernous room with a large pillar in the center.  There appeared to be few monitors and control panels in various places, but all were far beyond her reach.  

She then noticed a few small, spider-like machines converging on the giant.  He was oblivious to them.  The crawled in and around Shockwave, presumably conducting repairs to the larger robot’s systems.                    

Shockwave’s single ‘eye’ focused on the intruder.  “What arrangement do your people have with the Autobots?”

The captain was still unsure what her best response should be.  Would feigning knowledge of the other faction buy her time?  If she told it the truth, would the robot kill her now?  She had to say something.  In the end, she couldn’t think of a good lie.  Her pain, rage, and remorse were indicated in the tone of her reply, “I don’t know anything about the Autobots!  We were just exploring, like I said!”  Aurelia dared, “Return me to my ship or my vessel will level this whole damn place!”  She hoped bin Nadal could still hear her over the comline and act.  Unfortunately, the heavily shielded fort prevented transmission.    

The purple robot tilted its head, “You are a very foolhardy creature, aren’t you?”  He knelt down.  His head was as tall as her whole body.  The Decepticon declared, “You have sealed your fate, insect.  If you are cooperating with the insurgents, I will destroy you and your vessel.  If you are not; you have trespassed, attacked me, and threatened to annihilate our capitol.  …So…I will destroy you and your vessel.”

“We were defending ourselves!” she spat. 

The metal floor under Sintina shook as the machine shifted his weight and stood.  “So are we.”

Another slightly smaller, but still huge, humanoid machine entered.  Unlike, Shockwave, it had a recognizable ‘face.’  Its glowing, red eyes glanced at Sintina with what looked like distain. 

Shockwave regarded the newcomer, “Cyclonus, report.  …No respond in their language.  I want it to hear about your attack.”

Cyclonus’ wings folded neatly against his back.  He reluctantly proceeded.  “The attack was ineffective.”

“What?”

The fighter commander continued, “They have a defensive electro-static barrier surrounding their ship.  It is quite powerful.  Scourge, Blitzwing, and Dreadwing were all destroyed.”

A defiant smile emerged on Aurelia lips.  Since she would surely die anyway, she saw no reason to not pour salt in the wound.  “Bit off a bit more than you could chew, huh?  That’s a shame.”

Shockwave’s head jerked toward her.  He slammed his foot down centimeters away from the seated Sintina.  The reverberations were deafening.  The Guardian looked back at Cyclonus.  <Proceed with your report.>

<If we could find away around the energy shield, it would greatly increase our odds at defeating them,> Cyclonus determined. 

The former tank ignored the obvious statement, <Dirge meant with failure as well.  He lost contact with Sideswipe went the rebel went underground.>

The Seeker leader added, <I was able to scan the interior of the vessel.  They utilize a matter/anti-matter power source.>

Shockwave stepped closer to him, <That could reactivate Vector Sigma!  How much anti-matter do they have?>

<One point five-seven cubic cenivuns.>

<With that amount, we could revitalize the entire planet.>

Cyclonus crossed his arms, <The problem remains…how can we circumvent the barrier?>

The red beacon on the Decepticon’s face turned to Captain Aurelia.  <Sometimes insects do have their purposes.>

END OF CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 9

Supplemental

USS Independence, EVA Locker Room

In Orbit of Cybertron

Karim had only worn the TEVA, sometimes called a ‘hardened’ EVA suit, twice; once for mandatory training in the academy, the other for a mission during the war.  He loved the suits.  The helmet utilized a Heads Up Display that could show any number of things.  It reacted to verbal command or eye movements.  The suit itself hid bio-signs and, while it didn’t have a cloak, it did use stealth technology.  Several ‘grab-points’ held tools and weapons.  It also had nearly half a centimeter of ferrofibrous armor.  Each suit was custom replicated for the wearer.  So, despite the armor, the precise joints actually allowed for greater articulation and mobility than the standard EVA.     

Chief Hatora walked up, fully dawned in his own TEVA.  His helmet attached to his chest.  He reported the status of one of the three Type-10 shuttles the Indy held, “The Frazi is ready to launch, sir.”

The first officer sealed his left boot and stood, “And the Cullen?” referring to the landing craft, a Type-8. 

The Illyrian nodded, “Ensign Lemipil is doing her final checks.”

“Lemipil,” bin Nadal repeated.  “She’s the senior officer in the security division now, isn’t she?”

Hatora confirmed.

The executive officer thought absently, “It’ll be awhile until we can get a replacement for Virak.”  He lingered for a moment…and began to mourn for the Vulcan.     

The Chief of the Boat volunteered, “If she gets over her head, I’ll help out, sir.”

“I know,” Karim responded.  He took a breath, understanding there wasn’t time to grieve…not yet.  He regained his command mentality, “Have you ever seen anything like those…things before?”

“Not exactly,” the Illyrian rejoined, “I’ve seen war walkers on Kentares IV, but they didn’t change form…and they were manned.”

Bin Nadal began to move to the adjacent shuttle bay, Hatora in tow.  The cavernous bay was three decks high.  The lower level stored the remaining small craft.  The main area was the launch deck and the upper level, shuttle control.  They entered the launch deck.  The exterior door was open.  The Cullen and Frazi were abreast of each other in departure position.  To the XO’s surprise, Lieutenant Commander Windslow waited near the aft hatch of one of the shuttles. 

The chief engineer offered, “Commander bin Nadal, I had a flash of inspiration.  I’ve loaded the Frazi with four Mark 22 torpedoes.” 

Karim searched his mind and had to admit ignorance.  “Mark 22?”

“The Border Service uses them more often than the main fleet,” explained Ethan, “but we had a few in inventory.”  He stepped forward, excitement on his face, “You see the problem with using photons, even at low yield, is the possible proximity to the crew.”

Bin Nadal was pleased to see Windslow excited…about anything, but still broke in, “And the 22’s help us, how?”

The disgraced captain said, “The 22’s don’t use a matter/anti-matter charge.  Instead, they produce an electro-magnetic pulse.  The Border Dogs use them to disable small, poorly shielded craft.”

Hatora interrupted, “Sounds just like it’ll work just fine on our robot friends.”

Windslow continued, “It’ll disable the TEVA and shuttle’s systems as well, but the suits will work fine without the onboard computer.”

Lieutenant Commander bin Nadal dared to place a hand on Windslow’s shoulder and smiled, “Good thinking.”

Ethan glanced at the hand, but allowed the gesture and curtsied.

*****

The hovercars neared a standing figure in a clearing of the chrome landscape. 

Tang found himself staring at the automaton as they approached.  Kup appeared to be about 5 meters tall.  He was mostly turquoise and gray in color.  The machine had obvious battle scars on his frame.

Sideswipe and Wheeljack came to a stop. 

The sports model’s doors lifted open.  After the two Starfleet officers hesitated, Sideswipe offered, “Trust me, you don’t wanna be inside when I transform.”

Various parts on the white vehicle began to move, slowly at first, then faster, until the shifting gears and pieces became a blur.  Ultimately, all the parts reformed Wheeljack in humanoid form.  The entire process didn’t take more than two seconds.  The Autobot commented after the ballad of moving metal was over, “Besides, it would take forever to clean the stain you would leave.”

D’nas and Tang shared a concerned look for only a moment before vacating the hovercar.  Soon after, Sideswipe assumed a bi-pedal shape, as well. 

Upon shaking off his astonishment, Zian thought of a question, “Are you machines really sentient or just a collection of programmed responses like a hologram?”

The nearly two story tall cell leader knelt down and seemed to examine the officers.  Tang examined back.  Its blue, glowing eyes were so intricate.  The same glyphs he noticed on the building were etched on his ‘helmet.’  This robot seemed to have more superficial damage than the other two. 

Kup rejoined in an elder voice, “Prove to us that you’re sentient, lad.”

“What?”

The Autobot prodded, “Prove to us that you’re not just a collection of responses that you’ve learned from your own culture.”

The Tamarian jumped in, “A valid point.”

The science officer stumbled, “Uh…I guess I’ve never thought about it like that.”

Kup stood back up, “Maybe you should.”  He shook his head, “You couldn’t have landed on a worse part of the planet.”

“Yeah,” said Sideswipe, “you landed right next to the Decepticon stronghold.”  He added with a large, raised thumb, “Good going.”

The senior officer attempted to defend himself with, “There was a concentration of power signatures nearby.”

“Of course,” confirmed Kup, “it’s where the ‘cons horde their supply of energy.”

D’nas noticed a pattern.  All three of the machines had some type of emblem displayed, “What do those red…faces on you mean?”

Wheeljack answered, “It’s the icon of the commercial brand.  The Decepticons have a purple one.”

“Are your systems positronic?...isolinear?” blurted Tang, still soaking in as much information as he could.

The question seemed to confuse the towering figures.  Finally, Wheeljack, the engineer, responded, “We don’t know.”

The seemingly elder robot spoke, “We do know that our sparks are what give us consciousness.”

“Spark?” repeated D’nas.

“Technology the Quintessons acquired and incorporated into us,” said Wheeljack.  “They called it a lasercore.” 

‘Swipe added, “Only Vector Sigma, a super-computer, can produce them and it’s been powered down for eons.”

The consequence of the Autobot’s statement was not lost on Zian, “So you…your species… can’t reproduce.”

“That’s right,” Kup acknowledged. 

The science officer followed up with, “So how many Cybertronians are there?”

The Autobot engineer informed them, “There are 64 Decepticons and …with Trailbreaker gone…11 Autobots on the planet.  Several others, of both factions, are scattered about the galaxy.”

“You’re outnumbered six to one,” observed the exchange officer.

The red ‘bot said, “Now you see why we hide.”

END OF CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 10

Supplemental

Shuttlecraft Cullen

Moments until Planetside Rendezvous

Ensign Lemipil yawed the shuttle slightly above the landing site.  Allowing Lieutenant Commander bin Nadal to get a good look and run security scans. 

He reported, “It looks like each robot has plasma weapons and chemical explosive rockets as armaments.”

“With respect sir,” began the Zakdorn pilot, “If these three creatures are hostile, why did they rescue our people and allow them to communicate with us?”

“In my experience, Ensign,” he retorted, “rarely does anyone do something for nothing.”

The young officer quipped, “Even Starfleet?”

The remark caused a humorless grin to form on the first officer’s face, “Even Starfleet.”  His scans returned more information, “They sure are built to last.  The robots have an exoskeleton armor made of a matrix consisting of duranium, magnesite, carbon nanotubes, titanium boride, and silicon carbide.”

Lemipil commented, “That sounds stronger than our shuttlecraft hull.”

“It is,” confirmed the Persian.  He opened a channel to their support shuttle, “Chief, I’m going to take us down.  Maintain a holding pattern to watch our backs.”

“Acknowledged.”

*****

Science officer Tang sighed with relief when he saw one of the shuttles begin a descent maneuver.  The craft eased onto the metal deck with a soft hum.  The three, 5 meter tall beings stood casually waiting for the encounter.  D’nas smiled through his cracked visor.  The shuttle faced them.  Unbeknownst to the group, the vessel’s two phasers were locked onto Kup and Sideswipe.  A second small craft flew overhead.

The aft hatch opened.  Four security personal in TEVA’s formed a defensive parameter around the boat.  Ensign Lemipil could be seen through the shuttles forward window.  She made to attempt to leave the pilot’s seat.  Another figure, in a dark gray colored battle suit, walked with a slight bounce toward the looming automatons.

D’nas looked up at the Autobots.  They seemed rather unimpressed with Commander bin Nadal’s show of force; Sideswipe, particularly, showed body signs of annoyance. 

Zian’s EVA com chirped on, “Lieutenant Tang, are you alright?”  He recognized the voice of this first officer.  He assumed he was the figure walking toward them, though, he couldn’t see his superior’s face through the tinted visor. 

The science officer gladly responded, “We’re fine, Commander.  We haven’t been mistreated at all by this faction.” 

An unenthusiastic, “Great,” came from the suited figure, “Will they be able to understand me if I activate my external speaker?”

“Yes sir.”

Karim, wielding a phaser rifle, calmly neared the large robots. “Thank you for getting my people out of there.”

“It’s about time someone said, ‘thank you,’” griped the red machine. 

The older ‘bot snapped, “Shut up, ‘Swipe.”  Kup took a large step toward the new encased biologic.  “You’re welcome.  Are you their leader?”

“At the moment, yes,” replied bin Nadal.  He added, “There is another one of us.  A purple tank…creature took her into a structure…”

“Shockwave,” volunteered Wheeljack, “He took her into Kolkular, our enemy’s compound.”

“Do you know how we could get her back?” Karim prodded.

The machines shared glances with each other.  Finally, the cell leader said, “If you’re asking for our help…”

“More help,” Sideswipe bitterly inserted.

Kup continued after a brief shake of his head, “We can’t get you into Kolkular.”  He meekly added, “We’d like to help, but the rest of the Autobots are on the other side of the planet, in Iacon.”

Bin Nadal huffed inside his suit.  Immediately the air system evaporated the spot on his visor left by his breath.  “I understand,” he conceded.  “D’nas, Tang, get into the shuttle.”

Neither really wanted to leave.  Their curiosity about this new species had engrossed both of them.  Despite that, however, they made their way to the awaiting craft.

“Hold on,” stepped up Sideswipe, “That’s it?  A thank you!”

As the other shoe dropped, Commander bin Nadal gestured for Tang and D’nas to continue.  He addressed the towering robot, “What more do you want?”  Hoping the dialog would at least buy enough time for his people to board. 

The Autobot went down to his hands and knees, bringing his face close to the suited human. 

Karim fought his urge to raise his weapon. 

“Listen,” continued the former racer, “we lost one of our own saving your people from their own stupidity.”

“’Swipe…” began the elder ‘bot.

“No!” blasted the red machine as he regarded Kup, “The least these things can do is reciprocate somehow!”

“What did you have in mind?” tactfully questioned the first officer.  On his HUD, he saw both Tang and D’nas were in the shuttle.  The fact bolstered his position, slightly.

The massive, complex face turned back, “Some power generators.  It doesn’t matter how the energy is produced, we can covert it into usable energon.”  There was an obvious desperation about his tone.

Karim considered the request.  It wasn’t an unreasonable appeal.  The Prime Directive didn’t seem to apply.  These beings seemed to have the know-how, but not the means.  Starfleet regularly provided various races and colonies with microfusion generators.  He looked at the three Autobots.  All of them were, in turn, looking at him in anticipation of his answer.  A doubt…a worry entered his mind.  If he did this, would he be prolonging a war?  If he refused them, could he and his team all make it back alive?  He cautiously chose a third option.  He clasped his rifle to his thigh and took out a tricorder, “Can you download information off this device?”

The white machine offered, “If we’re within a few meters of it, sure.”

Bin Nadal tapped on it and said, “We don’t have any power generators with us now.  But don’t worry; we’ll be in orbit until we get our last crew member out of here.  Are you capable of simple radio communication?”

“Of course,” impatiently replied Sideswipe.

The first officer responded, “I’m sending you a frequency that our ship will be able to pick up.  So we can communicate at anytime.”

Kup moved closer, “So you are going to come back with some power sources?”

Karim hadn’t decided if this was a lie or not,…“Yes.”  His first priority, however, was to get Tang and D’nas back to the ship safe and find Sintina.

With that, the former racing machine stood back up, “Well, alright then.  When can we expect you again?”

The first officer wanted to delay as much as possible without upsetting the large robots, “About two hours.”

Kup approximated a grin, “We’ll see you then.”

Bin Nadal made his way back to the craft as calmly and quickly as he could.  The security team retreated as well. 

Once the Starfleet shuttle ascended, Wheeljack questioned, <Do you really think they’ll come back?>

The older robot rejoined, <If I were them, I’d get as far from this planet as possible.>

Sideswipe resentfully suggested, <We should have forced them to help us.>

Kup looked over, <That’s not how Prime would want us to operate, lad.>

The red racer gazed at the departing craft, now just a glimmer in the dark sky, “Don’t disappoint us.”

END OF CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 11

Supplemental

USS Independence, Main Bridge

In Orbit of Cybertron

The turbolift door parted for Commander bin Nadal, still in his TEVA, minus helmet and gloves.  He moved with purpose, “I came as soon as I could.  You’ve reacquired the captain’s signal?”

Windslow confirmed, “Yes sir.”  He vacated the center seat.

The first officer waved him back down.

The former captain continued, “She’s exited the compound with the same robot that took her.”

“Shockwave,” bin Nadal informed.

Kimula, the Andorian com. officer, announced, “Sintina’s talking to us.”

“On speaker,” ordered the armored commander. 

“…pendence come in.”

“Yes Captain, we’re reading.”

“My captor has agreed to release me if we agree to place a warning buoy in orbit to prevent further ‘flesh creatures’ from coming near the planet.”

Pouncing at the chance to get Sintina back, despite any possible treachery, Karim said, “Understood, we’ll send a shuttle to…”

“No.  That’s not part of the deal,” came from the captain. 

He and Ethan shared a worried glance.

Aurelia went on, “I’ll be sent to the Independence via one of their fightercraft robots.”

Again, the chief engineer and first officer exchanged a silent concern.  Bin Nadal said, “Understood, Captain.”  He added, “We’ll be waiting.”

“See you soon.”

Karim gestured for Kimula to mute the transmission.

Commander Windslow immediately suggested, “Maybe we could beam her out before it gets too close.”

The Persian shook his head, “They have magnesite in their armor.  Transporters won’t work if she’s near it.”

Bin Nadal activated the com. on his suit’s forearm, “Chief Hatora.”

“Yes sir.”

“Are you still in the shuttle bay?”

“Yes sir.”

“Good.”

*****

Despite herself, Captain Aurelia was somewhat awestruck as the 10 meter tall Thundercracker shape-shifted into what looked like a typical space fighter.  Ironically, she was grudgingly thankful that Shockwave placed her inside the cockpit.  Her ankles could no longer support her weight.  Now, she and Thundercracker neared the Independence. 

She knew something was up, but wasn’t sure what.  Shockwave tried to make a show of a light interrogation, but the huge machine could have done a lot more than just intimidate her.  ‘Maybe that thing had some common sense and figured he’d better give me back and be done with us?’  He seemed genuinely eager to have a warning buoy in orbit, once she suggested it. 

None the less, she knew her first officer.  Karim would take precautions. 

A part of her felt…violated…exposed…weak.  She didn’t like how totally defenseless she was against these machines.  She was at their complete mercy the whole time.  Nothing she did mattered.  She couldn’t fight back…she couldn’t even run away.          

The dark blue fighter passed along the dorsal side of the Steamrunner class ship.  She half expected the Decepticon to eject her, transform, and begin tearing into the Indy…it didn’t. 

Thundercracker made a slow, smooth turn for his approach to the main shuttle bay.  The large bay door was already opened; a soft blue light glowed around its perimeter.  Due to the lack of atmosphere in the cockpit, Sintina still had her full EVA suit on.  Besides that, she realized, it might be wise to leave it on.  Her instinct was confirmed when she saw a single figure, probably Karim…the face was hidden by the darkened visor, in a TEVA suit standing in the bay.

She ventured as they neared, “Commander bin Nadal, how are we doing?”

A familiar voice responded, “Oh you know me, Captain…just going with the flow.”

“I see,” she acknowledged.

*****

The fighter slowly penetrated the barrier separating space from air and landed.  The cockpit hatch began to open.  Once it did, many things happened nearly instantly:  Aurelia violently pushed herself out of the cockpit, the fighter began to transform, Karim pointed to the shuttle bay director, Ensign Wilson, in the sealed control room, and a small pod was flung out of the still transitioning Thundercracker.

The pod never landed.  Instead it formed a hawk-like machine.  It made a beeline for the control center. 

The exterior forcefield dropped.  Atmosphere rushed out into the void.  Karim and Sintina welcomed the maelstrom and allowed themselves to be blown out. 

The large Decepticon’s mass was too much for the vacating air to have an effect on.  He fully transformed and had to hunch slightly in the bay. 

The smaller robot successfully shot through the transparent aluminum window of the control office and entered.  As it did, the Decepticon rammed its ‘beak’ right into the face of the young ensign.  It withdrew its bloody, metal head and latched itself onto the panel. 

*****

Karim looked back as he sped away from the bay.  The robot turned at looked back at him, in what seemed like, bewilderment.  The first officer said, “Chief, go.”

The shuttlecraft Frazi came up from underneath the uniquely placed aft deflector dish pod and trained its phaser on the Decepticon still in the shuttle bay.

She couldn’t be sure, but Sintina thought she saw Thundercracker’s jaw drop.

The Frazi let loose a few blasts that caused the Cybertronian to explode into several gnarled chunks of metal.          

The captain looked over at bin Nadal, who floated along with her, several meters away.  The tell-tale signs of a transporter formed around him.  She felt the tug of a containment beam as well. 

*****

Captain Aurelia materialized, next to Karim, on the sick-bay floor.  Doctor Zo’Kama was instantly at her side and began scanning. 

Bin Nadal removed his helmet, “How is she?”

“Pissed that we went down there in the first place!” answered Sintina.  She removed her head covering as well, “That’s how I feel.”

The reptilian responded with only a slight hint of satire, “She’ll be fine.”

The captain ignored the banter, “Aurelia to bridge, report!”

Before the response could come, a klaxon sounded; followed the automated announcement, “Intruder alert.  Intruder alert.  All personnel initiate lock-down procedures.”

The Arkonian doctor cocked her head, “Answers that question, huh?”

Both Commander bin Nadal and the captain gave her a disparaging expression.

Zo’Kama was too busy to notice, “You have several torn ligaments, both your tali are cracked, and you have a broken fibula.”  Without further comment, she moved away to get tools.

“Bridge to Captain Aurelia.  Good to know you’re safe, ma’am,” said Windslow’s voice.

Sintina pressed, “Status.”

“There’s a second robot in shuttle control.  It’s uploading some type of virus into our computer.  I’m repressurizing the bay and sending in security.”

Karim made for the exit, “I’m going down there to help them.”

Again finding herself only moderately helpful, Aurelia asked, “What’s the virus doing?”

“We don’t know yet, Captain.”

Only then did the mocha-skinned captain look around sick-bay.  D’nas and Tang were in their EVA under suits still.  The science officer’s eyes seemed to make a request of her.  She told him, “Get up there and help them.”

The Asian nearly jumped off the biobed and strode to the door, “Yes, ma’am.”

The tan-scaled Arkonian returned with a device in her hands and began treatment.  She overheard the conversation.  She was tempted to scold her captain for releasing one of her patients without her permission, but wisely let it slide. 

Anxious to regain control of her ship, Aurelia pestered, “How long is this going to take?”

Even though, she had been in the fleet for fourteen years, Zo’Kama earned her degree via civilian education.  She always considered herself a doctor who happened to be a Starfleet officer; not the other way around.  She didn’t look up from her work, “Longer, if you distract me.”

Se