STAR TREK - FORGOTTEN WORLDS

The first installment in a new series I am working on. New crew New ship New worlds to explore

STAR TREK 

FORGOTTEN WORLDS 

BOOK 1 

CHAPTER 1 

Gamma Alpha �" Beyond the Frontier 

When a man makes a decision to give up everything to do 

something incredible, he carries with him the hopes and dreams of 

everyone, the people he loves, people he knows he will probably 

never see again. It is a decision that cannot be taken lightly and one 

that may change him and show him things he has never seen before. 

He must know love, so he can know loneliness. He must be 

tempered with wisdom but not afraid to act and he must know pain. 

Know what it is like to lose. Hate. Fear. Death. Those are the cold 

hard realities of space. Captain Derick Jamesen Lombardy knew 

this. He had seen enough for two lifetimes and he was not yet fifty. 

Ten years ago Derick walked away from StarFleet. There 

were so many decisions. Too many. His wife, Anna, sick. It made 

him crazy being away from her. There was lots of help at the house 

but it just wasn't right. “ Duty!” That's what he kept telling himself. 

There were many times he thought he was a goner, in the Cardassian 

Remin war. The civilian population of Earth voted to stay neutral but 

The Federation was inevitably sucked into the vacuum of conflict. 

The Remins had been surging for years. It was ugly then and still not 

good. Especially bad for The Federation. 

He just couldn't do it anymore. He couldn't look into the 



dark nervous eyes of ensigns, with blood on their faces and the 

explosions. Derick went home. He let the heros fight. He never told 

her how bad it was. He knew she paid some attention but it was 

something they rarely spoke about. He wanted their time together to 

be about them and not the war. His Anna died on a Friday. It was late 

in the day and he'd just gone to get some tea. When he returned to 

her, she was gone. He buried her next to her rose garden. She said, it 

was his choice. 

 Silently, the carnage continued. These vamporous 

creatures of the darkness, with their long heads and piercing yellow-

green eyes. He could always see them. Even now, far away from 

things. They were intelligent, that's for sure. Too much so, said 

scientists. Something in the Remin blood really had The Federation 

chomping at the bit for a specimen. After years of back and forth, in 

space and on land, they couldn't get a hold of one. Their weapons 

were always very advanced and seemed to be getting stronger. The 

Federation did have strong allies on this war. The Romulun Empire 

shared their advanced shield technology. The Ferengie. The Vulcans 

even said enough is enough. For there ever to be a lasting peace, 

man must first walk a million miles in fire so he knows he is ready to 

fight for it at its cost. The Remins have technology but they have no 

spirit. They don't really care about anything. On Earth, things were 

peaceful, but the danger was close and getting closer. 

His friends kept him happy and his family was scattered 

around but no one was that far. He fished with his buddies and 

drank. Told stories about places he'd been. Strange aliens from 

distant lands. All they ever wanted to hear about was the women. He 

always said the same thing. “Trust me guys. It's really not like that.” 

It was an old laugh but one they all enjoyed. Space was tuff. It took a 

lot out of you. Even the holodeck gets old at some point. Real but 

not. The war was real and there was talk a newer member to The 

Federation, the Keen, was offering some support. That was going to 



help but Derick always feared the Remin wave may not be stopped, 

at lest fully. They still wanted Earth. A silly goal to many but the 

Remins were very determined and The Federation was eternally 

unable to locate their planet or planets of origin. Invisible worlds, 

cloaked in shadow. 

The Remins are adept tunnelers. They could colonize an 

asteroid field in days and set traps for unsuspecting scavengers. They 

could be right under your nose. Creepy buggers. Orange blood. 

Bad odor. When you are somewhere they have been, you know it. 

Their hisses and clicks echo through their rock mazes. Sound is very 

important to the Remins. They can communicate through vibration, 

allowing them to send messages from one area of their base to 

another. It's how they always seem to know you are coming. Derick 

was thinking about his first encounter with a Remin. He hoped never 

to have another. They are viscous, mean tempered creatures with no 

business carrying plasma rifles but yet there we are. 

Derick watched through the long, curved window of the 

Gamma-Alpha Station, the endless dance which was taking place all 

around. Ships of any size, trying to come and go all at the same time. 

It looked like chaos. He was shocked and amazed. It'd been so long 

since he had seen it all from this perspective. It was breathtaking in 

and of its self. Derick was tall and in peak physical condition. His 

skin was darker due to the hot mid-western summers on Earth but 

that would go away. He'd lost most of the weight he'd wanted to. 

Even in transwarp it took nearly three months to arrive her at the 

edge of the Gamma Quadrant. It was plenty of time to separate 

himself from someone he'd only been pretending he was. But Anna 

was right. She had his soul but his heart was here, up in the clouds. 

He arrived in white military dress. His hair was dark and combed 

neatly back. He was ready. But what on earth was he doing here? 

There was no fighting this far out. There were no alerts. Everything 

was business as usual. Besides, the Remins did not possess trans



warp technology. Not yet. Another fear. 

His request to StarFleet to be reactivated was immediately 

accepted but the orders were cryptic at best. He would not be 

returning to military duties, at lest not right away. His good friend 

Admiral Preston Lee had contacted him personally to explain things 

but it would not be he meeting Lombardi here. So he waited. 

“Ah, Captain Lombardi.” 

Derick pivoted around and meet the extending hand of a 

well rounded man in a deep crimson uniform. He was a Captain. 

“I'm Captain Blair. I'm responsible for all of this craziness” 

“Well it's a hell of a responsibility I imagine. But your 

people seem to have things pretty well in order.” 

“Well we do aim to please.” 

The men began walking down a long, wide windowed, 

corridor. The station was huge. Everything looked to stretch on 

forever. “I haven't seen any reports of Remin activity this far out. I'm 

more than a little curious what I'm doing here.” Derick said. 

“I believe there is some information waiting for you in 

your quarters. Honestly, I don't have a clue. I was messaged two 

days ago to expect your arrival and have quarters. They never tell us 

much. We deal with a lot of different races here but there haven't 

been any major problems.” 

Blair stopped at a particular door. He motioned to the dark 

square panel on the wall above a series of buttons. “The door has 

been keyed to your thumb prints. Either does it. This turbolift can 

take you anywhere you'd like to go. Depending on how long you 

stay, we do have a variety of eminities at your disposal. These are 

my first officers quarters but he doesn't mind. Well, he does, but 

sometimes we all have to make sacrifices. 

They shared a laugh, then Blair excused himself into the 

lift. Derick sighed long and hard. The trip had worn him down. All 



he wanted was a hot shower and five hours quiet. He pressed his left 

thumb to the plate. There was a warming sensation from it and the 

door hissed apart. He stepped into a long room with curved 

windows. An amazing star view. The room was well furnished. 

There was a wide curved desk. Lounge furniture. Some sort of, 

possibly recreational, device with partially opaque luminescent 

spheres. Several pieces of art hung on the walls. 

His luggage was here. Two large black bags. Searched, no 

doubt. He lifted them and went into the bedroom. The bed was quite 

large. Unnecessarily large, Who was this guy? He set the bags to one 

side and he rested on his back for a good long while. 

Something was beeping. The sound had persisted in his 

mind for a while but he had fought it. But now Derick was losing the 

battle. It was desk console, forcing him from his reverie. He rose. 

Rested but restless. He went out the the desk, trying to manage his 

hair as he sat. He touched the soft orange glow on its shinny black 

surface. A thin screen rose up with the blue and white and a Code 

Alpha clearance indicator. His eyes only. 

A woman appeared. She looked to be a doctor or scientist 

of some sort. She held a pad and wore a white uniform with the 

federation logo on the left side. “Greetings Captain. My name is 

Doctor Nancy Lindermen. I am one of the heads of The Federations 

research and development. One area we focus a lot of attention on is 

speed. How fast can we really go? Is there really such a thing as an 

unsafe speed? We learned through the development of trans-warp 

that it isn't as much a question of velocity as it is one of protection. 

Our field displacement dampening technology has been evolving for 

decades and now with the additional technology sharing which is 

going on for the war, we are entering into a new dawn in space 

travel. We call it, Quantum Drive. Q Drive for short. This 

advancement will allow us to go farther and faster and still get home 



in time for dinner but our new synthetic energy mixture will allow 

ships to stay out virtually forever. At some point, maintenance will 

always become an issue and we are always committed to a crews 

safe return. That's StarFleet. 

Trials for the Q Drive met with great success. Now 

StarFleet feels it is time to put our new tools to the ultimate test. We 

will push past Gamma, ever deeper into the endless universe. What 

will we find? That is one of many questions you and your crew will 

answer.” 

Derick mouthed the words. “Your crew.” 

“All information is contained on the data card being 

prepared for you now. It includes lists of recommended primary crew 

candidates, most of of which are already there, as well as full specs 

on your ship. We have for you a redesigned Constitution Class 

vessel. Sleeker, slightly larger. A whole hell of a lot faster. We think 

you will enjoy this chair just as much as we did, probably more. It 

does include the standard Data unit. Only minor programming 

adjustments were made to him. It's all there. 

“Well Captain, I'm sure you have a lot to do, so I won't 

keep you. They asked me to do the intro, so here I am. We are very 

proud of our ship and very excited for you and your crew. You will 

go places most people will never see and you will bring back stories 

and knowledge from the most far flung stars. That is the best we can 

hope for and for the record I didn't write this. Far flung stars?” 

The screen darkened. Derick smiled. Well if there's one 

thing the fleet knew how to do it was a send off. Boldly they go. He 

rested his chin on interlaced fingers. It just didn't feel right. The 

Federation needs allies. But it always does. This war was no 

different. Different enemy. Darker. Impossible to reason with. Like 

the Borg but uglier. If there were any Borg left, this is where they 

would be, but there were none. What about the message. Strange to 

be debriefed by an r n d tec. He hadn't thought to ask Lee who his 



leazon in Gamma would be. Captains love supersizes. That's the job. 

“Computer. Who is my co for this mission?” He leaned back in the 

chair. It was light gray in color and quite comfortable. 

Your direct line of contact is Admerial Lee. On mission 

you are relegated to your own discression. 

“How much time do I have?” 

Crew selection should begin at once. Madin launch in 

twenty-one days. 

“Well that's good. How far are we going?” 

That information is not available in this data set. 

“Yeah I bet. Computer, how's the food in this dive?” 

That information is not available in this data set. 

CHAPTER 2 

THESE ARE THE VOYAGERS 

The best captains put duty and crew first. That's where 

respect rises. A crew is only as good as the man or woman they 

serve. To survive, the two must act as one. The goal must always be 

the same. Derick was tried. Within twelve days he had selected most 

of his bridge crew. These were the people of his most concern. 

Junior officer and lower deck assignments would be handled mostly 

by station chiefs. There was no shortage of acceptable volunteers. 

Fleet recruitment, even amungst allied races was good. Plenty of 

explorers and fighters too. 

Now Derick was on his way to meet one of two candidates 

for first officer. Her name was Denora Reckeff. She was of Russian 

descent. Forty-five. Never married. No children. He preuesed her file 



briefly. In the lift. They were meeting in one of the stations 

observation lounges. Sort of an intergalactic social gathering where 

almost no one ever knows who the other is. Just the randomness of 

space travel. Gamma-Alpha had become very popular over it's years 

of service. So much so Gamma-Beta was being built. Many light 

years from here but would be equally as massive when it was 

finished. The lift stopped and the doors hissed open. Derick stepped 

reflexively forward and was startled when he looked up into the 

wide, round bug eyes of a rather heavy, slightly hunched alien with a 

big round head, wearing a thick oily colored dress of some kind. 

There were two of them. They looked hungry. “Uh-excuse me I-” 

“Just get out. Get out of the way.” The universal 

translator said. 

Derick hurried forward, lest he be torn in two and eaten. 

What even were those things? Can they steer a ship? It was mind 

blowing. 

The lounge was spacious and well lit. It featured a long 

wide oval bar which looked as though it was usually pretty full. 

There were standing tables scattered throughout. Curved booths off 

to the sides and cushioned seating near the large window. Stars on 

one side, the comings and goings of station life on the other. Derick 

was slightly early. He'd agreed to meet her here but wanted a 

moment to acclimate. This was an interesting place just not one he 

would normally find himself. Perhaps this was an environment Mrs. 

Reckeff found enjoyable. Interesting. 

“Excuse me. Are you Captain Lombardie?” 

Derick turned to his left and saw the woman standing at a 

table. A small glass rolling between the fingers of her left hand. She 

was beautiful. Tall and in tremendous shape. Of course she was not 

in uniform, which made it all the more, difficult. She was obviously 

very confident and not all too shy. He stepped immediately over to 

the table, but in his mind he stood for just a moment longer. He 



smiled and took her hand as she offered. She squeezed his hand in 

hers for just a moment. Her touch was warm. It was nice. “Denora 

Reckeff I presume.” 

“You presume correctly Captain. And let me first say what 

an honor it is to have the chance to travel the stars with this amazing 

ship and crew. My family is so proud of me but this, this is extra 

special.” She covered her mouth for a moment. Her face had 

reddened slightly. “I'm sorry. Please. Um-would you like-I can get 

you something. The help here is, well.” 

“No no I'm-it's fine. You're fine. I mean-damn. You know 

what, I think I might take that drink.” 

She laughed softly. “What shall it be?” 

“Oh I don't care. I'll have what you're having.” 

“Aye.” She nodded and made for the bar. 

Derick looked over her file more. She graduated with high 

marks. Top five percent. That's impressive in and of its self. High 

marks for adaptability skills and leadership. Served as FO on two 

ships. Trustworthy and ambitious. Derick grinned. He would still 

have to meet the other candidate but really he'd already made up his 

mind. Denora returned and placed a glass of clear liquid in front of 

him. He picked it up and looked into it as though to examine it but 

he knew very little about drinks. “So what is this supposed to do to 

me huh?” 

“Make you give up all of your secrets.” She winked, 

toasted the air and finished her glass. She set down. “Now it is your 

turn.” 

“I'm not sure I should. This is a job interview.” 

“Please, it's just I am so nervous. Here, all alone. I really 

don't like it.” 

“Then why do you want to go on the mission so bad? You 

know what it entails. We may be gone a long time. It's not something 

you do half way and then quit. We can't just turn around.” 



Denora smiled lightly. “No, it's not the mission. I've 

accepted that. It's this. The waiting. Only the best get to go all the 

way. I want it and I know I'm good enough.” 

“Well Denora you're certainly qualified. The most 

qualified I would say.” He took a sip from the glass. Vanilla and 

something else. It was very good. 

“Stolie. From my home country. They still make it there.” 

He took another sip. “They serve this here?” 

“No sir. The Russians always come prepared.” She grinned 

tightly. 

He finished the glass. “This is actually very good. Cold. 

Here's what I'm going to do. I'm going to track down my other 

candidate. Pick his brain and what not. Will you be available later 

this evening?” 

He stiffened slightly, shedding the moment he felt 

developing. He moved around the table. He took her hand firmly. 

“Thank you Mrs. Reckeff for seeing me. I look forward to meeting 

with you again. Soon. He released her with a nod and stepped away 

but he turned smoothly back still close enough for her to hear. “I 

should expect to find you in uniform next time. Commander.” 

She turned fast but he was already lost in the forming 

crowd. 

She would do fine. Now it was on to engineering. This was 

not his strongest field. Now a days engineers were more like 

scientists. Warp field technology was entering a zone only a handful 

of people really understood. Derick didn't think even StarFleet fully 

understood the details. He sure as hell didn't. What he didn't like, 

was all the theory which went into quantum dynamics. The 

squeezing of space to save the time and the consequences of letting 

go, of exceeding ones grasp. It had happened before, in small ways 

and in larger ones. Past the light barrier there would always be risks. 



There were two potentials he had in mind. The first was an 

American named Wilson Pike. Young man. Bright. Strong Fleet 

history. Looked to know the Q drive tec as well as anyone. What 

Derick was really looking forward to was the new core. The heart of 

the ship was always his most favorite. You can feel the hum of it 

from pretty much anywhere on ship but standing next to it is always 

a special thing. The energy potential just waiting to be released is 

always incredible. The tube would take him to a separate area of the 

hanger. Off limits to normal traffic. His first chance to step aboard 

his ship. Unofficial but still fun. He'd studied the virtual walk-

through and was fairly confident he could find his way around. He 

knew where the bridge was anyhow. 

The tube seemed to travel forever. When it stopped, the 

doors opened to reveal a long, tight, dimly lit hallway,ending at 

another door. It was one of the emergency evacuation doors. The 

corridor looked very thin. Ominously tight. How thin the line is 

between life and death. Just one step and then another. Soon he was 

there. His thumb triggered the door release and he was in. The doors 

snapped viloantly closed behind him and it caused him a mild start. 

“Well, those work!” 

He was standing in a curved area of the main engineering 

deck. The air was cool and over-oxygenated. Very fresh and clean. It 

would need a bit of adjusting. As would lighting and several dozen 

other things but all in good time. He went to the right. The corridor 

branched off in several directions. He continued on. A quick turn to 

the right and there it was. Off line but still impressive. A staggering, 

dark, tube-shaped monolith. Reinforced with duraneium and 

something the Romuluns gave us he could not pronounce. There 

were three shinny metallic looking rods positioned around the core. 

These were the quantum resonators. They are what created and 

helped to stabilize the incursion once it begins. A lot rides on the 

synchronicity and stability of these rods. As an additional layer of 



protection there is polymorphic shielding which kicks on 

automatically. In an emergency, the shield will run for forty-eight 

hours even on backup, drastically increasing life support and comm 

time. The ends of the core were encased in thick alloy molds. 

Derick walked passed the center console. It was active but 

most ships functions were locked off. Just enough juice to keep the 

gas burning. He stepped to the gray metal rail. Cold and smooth. He 

gripped it tight. Main engineering was situated lower on the core to 

better accommodate stellar cartography and additional resources 

necessary for the proper maintenance and functionality of the Q 

drive and the deflector array. Looking down he could see the base. It 

looked very secure even down. He was very impressed. Looking up 

was almost more than he could tolerate for a moment. “Wow! Now 

that is an engine. My god this thing is big.” 

“But quiet as a mouse. Even quieter. Lieutenant Wilson 

Pike at your service sir. Sorry, I was down in the control room. 

They're still installing some software, I was just having a look. 

Curious as hell if you don't mind my saying sir. This is a- pretty big 

ship, but you can tell that just by looking up at her.” Wilson went to 

the rail. He looked up. It was hard not too. “Man what I wouldn't 

give to see her in action. Just one time even.” 

“Well Lieutenant, whatever the case ends up being, I can 

assure you will see her on line. All the candidates will. I wish I could 

take everyone. It looks like all the available seats have been filled. 

So why don't you tell me Mr. Pike why it is you want to do this, 

aside from the obvious reasons like it's in your blood and it's a 

chance to see something new. There are a lot of unknowns in this. 

Are you sure it's something you really want?” 

“Well sir, really it's just what you said. It's in my blood. I 

was raised on star stories. It's just always been a part of me. I joined 

the Academy as soon as I could. I didn't want to fight but at the time 

it was all there was. Still is really but when you look at it, The 



Federation has always been at odds with someone. There's always 

someone who doesn't like us because we are the least selfish. They 

shoot at us and blow us up but we just keep holding out that olive 

branch.” 

“I take it you do not fully support the war. You do realize 

the Remins have sworn to the death to claim Earth. It's in all their 

jargony propaganda. They can call it a language. If we stop now we 

will lose whole sectors to them. It is a delicate balance. If the 

Remins smell fear now they might surge and even the Cardassians 

dont know how many there could be. They've been fighting the 

Remins a lot longer than we have. They cant get their hands on one 

either. They're like ghosts.” 

“I am forced to question StarFleets motivation in 

launching this mission now, especially if things are as tenuous as 

you say. Are these people going as explorers or as recruiters?” 

“Well Lieutenant, I think it's probably a little bit of both. 

Plus they're very confident in the Q Drive. If we do find something 

useful out there we'd be crazy not to use it if we can right? Besides 

we have dozens of flag ships out there expanding the quadrants. The 

Vulcans have given up expansion and when the war finally ends The 

Federation will be able to unite the Romulen and Cardassian 

Empires. Peace will prevail. It always does. There's been peace on 

Earth for decades now. Sustained global calm. Why? Because people 

look this.” Derick pointed to his blue and white federation. He 

accidentally touched it and it let out and declamatory beep. No 

comm. “Well, there's still a few bugs to get worked out.” 

They shared a laugh. Pike straitened and adjusted his white 

uniform. The collar was something. “It would be an honor to serve 

with you sir. Despite my apprehensions I know you service and I'm 

confident you would not steer us wrong.” 

“Well I'm sure you would be making very good sure that 

didn't happen.” Derick leaned in a little closer to the young man. 



“You want to know a secret? I don't know a damn thing about this 

engine. It sure looks amazing though.” He looked up again, gazing 

into it's endlessness. He looked back down at Pikes file. Lots of high 

marks. “Weapons training, below average. What's that about?” 

“Well sir, I was pretty good with the rifles but the hand 

phaser just really isn't my thing. I dropped one. One time. There was 

a small accident. Nothing big.” 

“Small accident?” 

“A little fire. They put it out it's just, they gave me a lot of 

crap for it. Especially since they knew I was an engine nerd. I just 

wanted to get out of there. I hear the security is really good on this 

ship. Have you chosen a security chief?” 

Derick took a deep breath. Now he understood the kid. “I 

have actually but that's something I have to keep to myself for now.” 

He closed the file. “I'll tell you what Mr. Pike. I have some other 

appointments to make today. As you know we are getting closer to 

launch.” 

“Yes Sir.” 

“Great. Well it was nice to meet with you and thank you 

for your application.” He shook the mans hand. “Well I am off. This 

all looks great. The core is amazing. Soon. Feel free to continue 

observing the tecs You know as much as they do, probably more. 

“Agreeably so sir and thank you for seeing me as well. You 

can always count on me.” 

“As you were Mr. Pike.” The man spun around was to the 

control room but Derick stopped him for just a moment. “Oh, Mr. 

Pike. Is the bridge lock-out still up?” 

“It is sir but I can probably get them to disable it for a 

while.” 

“Officer thinking Lieutenant.” 

“Bridge.” The lift was really fast. He could feel the pull of 



vertigo deep in his chest. A wild ride beginning and ending in the 

same instant. Then the doors opened to reveal the spacious circular 

bridge. The design was fairly standard. StarFleet was nothing if not 

efficient. He liked the curved tactical station directly behind the 

chair. The ultimate comfort. Virtually untouchable. He ran his hand 

along the cool metal as it ended in a rich, brown, synthetic wood 

base. He pressed into the dark screen. Now he was a kid again. 

Everything he needed was right here. The sub-stations were all very 

streamlined. There were several raised, padded chairs placed at 

random stations. All were dark. The lights were on but at maybe half 

power. There was lots of shadow. It was dead quiet. He was half 

temped to lock the door and just hide here. 

The chairs were fairly narrow and ended in a dull point on 

top. They were white with soft ripples of black, form fitting padding 

and emergency restraints. Derick's chair was noticeably wider than 

the ones to either side. He winked at it. Are we ready? Let's find 

out.” He sat. He closed is eyes, allowing the chair to talk to him. It 

was a very good conversation. He opened his eyes. The screen 

looked finished but the display was just grid. Not much going on. He 

sat for a while. Stared at the other file. Number two. Equally 

qualified. She really knew her stuff. 

Picking your doctor is like picking your priest. This is 

especially true for a captain preparing a crew for a long voyage. It 

doesn't have to be a person you can relate to but I does have to be a 

person you can talk to. A person you can tell all your deepest darkest 

secrets to. A person you put all your trust in. The only person on the 

ship who can tell you what to do. Derick knew he definitely wanted 

a female in that position. Luckily two of the candidates were. Karen 

Jess. Human. Born on Earth. All sorts of medical certifications. 

More greek. She was dark skinned with long black hair braided in 

nice rings behind her head. Quite lovely. Young. 



The other was a Romulun. She finished in the top three. He 

spoke with her first over tea in her quarters. Nala Tee. Fascinating 

mind. Very intelligent. Articulate and there was a warmth to her too 

he did not expect. They spoke for a short time. She told him about 

her family and where she was from. Some colony in the Beta-

Quadrant he'd never heard of. She was very eager to go on the 

journey. She was ready to start a new thing. See things few of her 

people would ever see. He really liked that. The Romuluns were 

aware of what The Federation had done in developing Q drive but 

they wanted no part of it and forever warned The Federation but they 

never listened. Better. Farther. Faster. 

He found Karen in the arboretum. A lush park and rain 

forest with a slow stream running endlessly. One would never know 

they were in deep space. Children ran around. The sounds of life 

were everywhere. He met her at the entrance to the forest. She was 

sitting on a wooden bench in the shade of some large tree. Pretty 

convincing sun. Almost hot. She stood to greet him. “Mrs. Jess, 

Captain Lombardie. Are we sitting or walking?” 

She smiled lovely dark eyes. Her hair was down and hung 

loosely in the warm breeze. Let walk. It's a little cooler in there.” 

“I hope so. I'm starting to feel a little over dressed.” 

“Well sir, you might be a little, but I'm sure the locals 

won't mind.” 

So they went into the shady bungalow. It was actually 

quite nice. Romantic even, with the shades of artificial light. They 

walked and talked, occasionally stopping to admire a view. They 

talked about a lot of things and when they got to the other end of the 

path, back into the sun, he knew he'd found his continence. She was 

an old soul. Wise in her younger years. Five children. Still, she was 

here. It was the easiest of all his choices. He hugged her and thanked 

her. He asked her stand by for pre-departure details. He made her 

day. 



Back in the officers room, Derick sat at the desk and 

reviewed his choices. In his view these were the best choices and 

best choices for him. He choose Klingon Darmon Krota to man the 

guns, shields and assist comm. He was a highly decorated tac officer 

for the high command before being allowed to join the fleet. Now he 

would wear the white and gold of The Federation. He looked like a 

mean bad a*s and that was all Derick cared about. He was also quite 

fluent in English and was able to adapt quickly to the fleets 

mechanics. Behind him and to the left would be his 

science officer. A Vulcun. Hans Suman. An endless stream of 

information. Very disciplined manner but surprisingly up beet and 

cheerful. Derick was sure he was going to catch the man smiling one 

time during the metting but nope, he's a Vulcun. 

To the right of tac would be his comm person. Kira 

Lenore. Calm and sweet. Highly knowledgeable and fluent. She was 

something of a language guru. Talked a lot about the creation of 

languages and how the meanings of things are always changing. He 

looked forward to many stimulating, one sided conversations with 

her. He would go with Mr. Pike downstairs. 

Seated to his left would be Doctor Karen Jess. She was the 

obvious choice. It would be nice to see Data again. The personality 

profile is always very engaging and interactive. This is something 

which developed over years and years of close interaction with the 

crew of the flag ship Enterprise-D. It was her captain, Jen-Luc-

Picard who made sure the original matrix was preserved. He enjoyed 

Datas stories. The ones about the cat always made him laugh. For 

some reason he could never get her to sit when he wanted but she 

would always sit at her own time. 

There would be enough eager ensigns aboard to fill the hot 

seat. That was no problem. There was just one vital position left to 

be filled. 



CHAPTER 3 

THE LAUNCH 

“Captains personal log. Stardate 55382. I have met with 

my bridge crew and everyone seems agreeable and ready. It's a 

young bunch. My first mate Denora and I are the oldest, so I guess 

that makes sense. I like these people. They are all professional and 

talented in their own rights. It's hard to tell how strong a person 

really is. How they will react in any given situation, however I am 

confident in my decisions. I've met with all duty chiefs. Everything is 

in line. The ship is amazing. Truly state of the art. We tested the core 

yesterday and that went well. It looks like a towering machab 

rainbow all lit up like that. Honestly it makes me a little nervous. 

These speeds are incredible. I can see why StarFleet is eager to give 

it a go but I'm not sure if I'm lucky or damn crazy. We are truly 

sailing into the unknown. Able now to explore long forgotten worlds. 

In two days we will find out how far our reach really extends. A lot 

depends on how the crew responds to the riggers of extended deep 

space travel. This first trip is really just a test run. When we get back 

there will probably be a celebration and then we will be in it for the 

long haul. To my family and friends on Earth I take all your best 

with me. Pray for us and this ship. I hope to see you all again soon. 

End.” 

Derick gazed out the window into the endless cold beauty 

of space. In forty-eight hours, history would be made. As usual, he 

could not sleep before first launch. Even now it plagued. Mostly it 

was because the first one is when you find out what really works and 

what doesn't. He'd heard a lot of engineers talk to him about 

simulation study. Math was not really his thing. He was a decision 

maker. A thrill seeker. But experience can make you fear yourself. It 

can make one question weather or not a thing which can be done, 

should be. It was hard to say no to StarFleet. It could be a lot worse. 



They could have sent him off to die. That was another life. Or the 

next one. Now, he got to be the explorer. The one to push farther in 

one stroke than any human being who ever lived. His comm badge 

beeped. He tapped it. “Lombardie here.” 

“Captian, it's Denora. Is this a bad time?” 

Derick grinned. “No. I wasn't sleeping either Commander. 

What's on your mind. Russian vodka?” 

“You might say that. Come on, let me try and twist your 

arm. Then we can be all serious and responsible. I want to know the 

real Derick Lombardi.” 

“Ha. You're going to need a hell of a -” 

His retort was interrupted by the door chime. It surprised 

him. Maybe it shouldn't have. He went to the door and it it rushed 

open. “A hell of a bottle of-whatever that is. Oh. You know it's too 

bad we really have to wear uniforms on ship.” 

She held up the bottle and one glass. “I could only steal 

one from the mess.” She chuckled. 

“Jesus god, my first officer is a drunk and a thief. She's 

quite pretty. Get a hold of yourself man! Don't let anyone see her 

man! Get her in!” Derick did just that. He grabbed Denora by her 

right shoulder and gave her no option but to enter. He exhaled only 

after the door was closed. He had to take two more quick breaths 

before he could turn around. She was in a long, light blue gown with 

white trim and some exotic gold colored design. It suited her in a 

way he could not explain. She had already sat in one of the longer 

couches and placed the unlabeled bottle of clear liquid on the glass 

table before her. She unscrewed the cap and poured a little less than 

half a glass. She looked up at him. “Well sit down stupid. Pretend 

your waiting for something.” Now Derick was really starting to feel 

the pressure. He wanted to move but his legs felt as though they 

were in cased in concrete. She smiled. 

“What are you thinking Captain? I'd like to know.” 



Derick pulled his uniform top down tightly and cleared his 

throat. All the things he wanted to say and all he could do is stare at 

her. Somehow, he made it to the adjoining sofa. He jokingly poked at 

the glass. It's been a long time since I've tasted real alcohol.” 

“Home is only the things we take with us. For a Star-Fleet 

officer that's mostly memories and, if he's lucky, a little booze.” 

Derrick laughed. She had a point there, about memories. 

They were more real to him than anything on a holodeck. He took 

the glass. The vodka was cool. He met her toast and they sipped. 

“Most of the personal reports are in, there are a few loose ends but 

nothing that will keep us here. We may spend a day or two in 

uncharted waters, assessing drive function. When we return it will be 

final prep for extended launch. Send all your messages. 

Denora smiled lightly and nodded. She looked out into the 

endless sparkle of space. What do you think we will find? 

“Maybe something that will help us stop the Remins. It's a 

long shot if you ask me but We can use every advantage now.” 

She looked back at him. “How can it still be so bad?” 

“Oh it's always worse than they say. We still don't have 

solid numbers or points of origin. Nagging buggers. We'll get them 

eventually.” 

“Do you you have confidence in this crew?” 

Derick leaned back. He toyed with the glass. “Well it's a 

young group but they know what's at stake. I know my speech 

galvanized them some. I don't think we have anything really to 

worry about as long as the ship holds out. But that's up to Mr. Pike, 

not me. He downed the rest of the vodka and leaned forward.” 

“Please allow me Captain.” 

“Well thank you.” So I see in your profile you have 

children on Earth but you are seperated. Was it the work?” 

“Yes and no. Enlisting is a sacrifice. There is always that 

part of me that want's just a normal life but things are never so 



simple. I guess the war kept me motivated some. It made me feel 

like I was making a difference, even if I wasn't in the c.o.r.e. We all 

fight in differen't ways right?” 

“Absolutely. I walked away for a while. This is my first 

assignment in a few years. It's felt good to get back into the life. The 

uniform still looks good on me I think and I get to pick my own 

people for the most part and fly around in an experimental ship 

going god knows where! Maybe it can get better.” 

They enjoyed their glasses and shared a laugh.” 

Denora pored them a bit more. Now she was sitting next to 

him. “What about yourself, Captain? Children?” 

“Please. When we are not on board, call me Derick. It's 

fine. I do. I have two children. Well, they're pretty well grown now 

but yeah. My wife, she died a few years ago but I've tried to put all 

that behind me.” 

“Well that's very brave of you. I can't imagine.” 

They sat in silence for a while, then Denora excused 

herself. She took the bottle with her, wishing him the best of luck. A 

part of of him wanted her to stay. A small part. 

Derrick stepped into the turbolift and the doors wisked 

behind him. It was the day of days. A new launch and the start of a 

new adventure. He touched his hand to the illuminated deck plan on 

the curved wall. He could feel the energy. He closed his eyes and 

smiled. Warm. Alive! 

“Captain on the bridge!” 

Derick tipped an imaginary hat to the pale android as he 



stepped out. “Thank-you Mr. Data.” Mr. Pike was first to his right. 

He gave the man a quick wink. “So how is everything looking?” 

Pike was quick to answer. “Green across the board sir. All 

speeds through Q drive.” 

“Wonderful. He looked past him to Kira. “Mrs. Lenore 

please hail docking.” 

“Aye sir. Docking control this is the U.S.S.___________ 

requesting launch.” 

Derick walked around the curved side of the tac. Station 

and and gave Dr._______ a quick hug. He nodded to Denora and 

everyone sat together.” 

THIS IS DOKING CONTROL. YOU ARE CLEAR FOR 

LAUNCH AND AND Q DRIVE TEST RUN 

“Thank you control. Mr Data, take us out.” 

“Aye sir. Morrings retracted. We are running on internal 

power. All systems normal.” 

Derick sighed long and hard. “Thank you Data.” 

CAPTAIN LOMBARDIE THIS IS 

ADMERIAL_________ SORRY I COULDN'T BE THERE TO SEE 

YOU OFF IN PERSON BUT I WANTED YOU TO KNOW I'M 

WATCHING. SHIP LOOKS GREAT. GOOD LUCK 

“Thank you sir. That means a lot. He turned to Denora. His 

smile slowly widening.” 

She almost started to laugh. “We're out of here. Sir.” 

“Yes we are.” 

“Half thrust.” Data said. 

In all her pale beauty, the ________ glided forward. All 

traffic had been stopped and many sat facing her as she pushed 

through the station toward the retracting doors. Silent and 

impressive. When fully occupied she could carry close to two 

thousand souls. They would leave for real with around 800. All 

races, colors and creeds. She passed effortlessly into space. 



THIS IS DOCKING CONTROL. YOU ARE CLEAR. 

Derick nodded and tightened his uniform. He looked from 

Denora to the doctor. “Alright then. Helm. Just go that way.” He 

pointed casually toward the viewer. The ensign turned and quickly 

straitened. 

“Aye-aye sir. Engaging impulse drive.” 

“Strait and steady son. Mr. Pike.” 

“Sir.” 

“I trust your simulations are complete and you are ready as 

ever to test this new system for real.” 

“Yes sir. Very much sir.” 

“Then please proceed at your own discression.” 

“Yes sir.” 

Derick heard the man exhale hard. It was nerves. He was 

doing about as good as the rest of faking it. 

Pike gained his composure. “Ensign take us to full impulse 

and increase warp speed at twenty second intervals. The Q drive 

intermix chamber will be fully polorized by the time we reach warp 

nine. The I will start the sequence,” 

“Understood sir. Increasing to warp one.” 

The ______ blasted into light speed in a spiraling rainbow 

streak ending in am immense fiery blast. Now stars were streaking 

across the viewer. 

“How's the deflector Data?” Lombardie asked. 

“Functioning perfectly sir. All elements in the green.” 

“Now at warp five.” Said the ensign. 

Now the screen was mostly dark. Nothing to see but the 

speeding blackness of space. It was quiet. 

“Mr Pike?” 

“Readouts look good. Flow chambers are functioning well. 

We are already at sixty percent flow. Rods are charging slightly 

faster than predicted. I am compensating. Sixty-five percent.” 



“Very good. Mrs. Lanore hail Gamma-Alpha.” 

“Aye sir. Gamma-Alpha reads.” 

“This is Captain Lombardi. We are approaching target 

speed for Q drive initiation. Stand-by.” 

“Received and acknowledged.” 

“Very good.” A sudden jolt pushed Derick from one side of 

his chair to the other. Then came the faint sound of something 

getting the life sucked out of it. “Mr. Pike? What are you doing to 

my ship?” 

“Warp eight.” Said the ensign. 

Pike wiped several more beads of sweat from his brow. 

“I'm not sure what that was sir. Nothing is showing up on my screen. 

Must have been a gremlin. Intermix rates are on the line. Rods are at 

eighty-five percent charge.” 

“Data clear for trans-warp.” 

“All clear.” 

“Punch it ensign.” 

Now the screen was alive with color. First a vortex of 

blues, then red, now orange.” 

“Data filter five percent.” 

The flashing colors dimmed slightly. Now they were in sub 

warp. Fast and getting faster. Derick could feel a difference in the 

ship now. It felt like some unseen hand were squeezing the ship as 

hard as it could from all around but couldn't quite get the job done. It 

was a hopeless feeling really, trusting souly the computer. 

“Warp eleven sir.” The ensign exhaled hard. He cast a 

casual glance at Data, who looked just completely fascinated by the 

vortxes. Data made him nervous. Everything about the mission did 

but what else was there to do. It was nuts to go any faster than this. 

“Alright Mr. Pike it's your call.” 

“I say go.” 

“Ensign you heard the man. Make us all famous.” 



“Aye sir.” There was a softly glowing, square, light purple 

square at the top left of his console. He took the deepest breath of his 

life and pressed it hard. 

The vortex spun faster and faster. All colors blurred 

together. Then the colors began to leave trails and blend in to each 

other creating more exotic schemes. The vortex took on a more all 

encompassing feel as it started to slow and expand forward until 

there were no stars just waves of overlapping color. The ship was 

vibrating now. It was noticeable and the lights had dimmed slightly. 

“Data report.” 

“Hull stress is at thirty-two percent. Power seems to be 

dropping off, however the Q drive effect seems to be carrying us on 

its wake.” 

“Radiation?” The doctor queried. 

“Levels are slightly elevated but well within safety norms. 

I believe the abladive shielding will hold.” 

“Thank you doctor. Mr. Data can you tell us where we 

are?” 

Data busied himself. 

Derick stood. It took him en extra moment to straiten. One 

of the effects of Q drive was a stronger center of gravity. He was 

feeling it already. He chuckled at the doctors feeble attempt to assist 

him as he stepped between the android and the young man. Now the 

vortex was starting to mess with his equilibrium. Maybe he would 

spend the return trip in the ready room. “Well Data? Are we lost? I 

don't mind if we are I just have to know.” 

“Sorry sir. The computer is having difficulty fixing our 

position through the vortex. I'm boosting sensor power. Rerouting 

through aux. Power grid. Oh my. Sir I recommend we shut the Q 

drive down now. It seems to be working but these readings have us 

________ light years from from Voyager Base. At this rate-” 

“Enough said. Ensign pull it back, nice and easy.” 



“Aye. Somethings wrong sir. The Q drive won't 

disengage.” 

“Master override. Delta-Sole-Minor-Zulu.” 

“Nothing sir.” 

“Damnit.” Derick spun on his heal and was up around in a 

moment. As he stepped in behind Mr. Pike the ship took another jolt. 

This one nearly caused Dameron and Kira to step out from their 

raised chairs. “Yellow alert. Activate chair restraints. Secure all 

decks. Get us out of this tunnel Mr Pike! Pull the damn boards out of 

you have to.” Mrs. Lenore transmit primary distress call. Send 

current coordinates.” 

“Aye sir. Transmitting now.” 

WARNING-STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY AT FIFTYFIVE 

PERCENT OF TOLORANCE. RISK OF RADIATION 

EXPOSURE BEYOND ACCEPTABLE LIMITS IN FIVE MIN. 

The computer saved Derick getting to ask Data how bad 

things really were as he went back to him. The bridge shook again 

and he gripped his right shoulder for support. Then it shook again, 

more violently this time. “That sounded really bad. “ Go to red. Mr 

Pikc!” 

“Yes sir, we are trying. Yes. Cut the feeds. Cut everything. 

What order?” 

WARNING-Q DRIVE INTERMIX STABELIZER 

SYSTEM OFF-LINE-CHARGE IS OFF BALANCE-INTERMIX 

CHAMBER COILS HAVE BEEN SEALED 

WARNING �" RISK OF WORMHOLE EFFECT. 

DEACTIVATE Q DRIVE IMMEDIATLY. 

The bridge continued to shudder. Derick kept himself 

planted next to Data. Everyone else was at lest secure in their seats. 

“Come on Data. How do we stop this?” 

“I believe two quantum torpedoes detonated sufficant 

distance ahead could breach the vortex and trip the drive. The system 



is down now. We just need to escape the vortex. Mr. Krota has the 

solution.” 

“Fire!” 

Just as the torpedos launched the ______ was pulled into a 

wormhole. The mass of wheeling color was at once enveloped by a 

funnel of millions of bright orange beads, spinning and spinning 

forever. The two spots of blue shot out into view but quickly 

vanished in the accelerated spiral. The ridge was shaking rather 

steadily now and all was bathed in red. 

WARNING �" STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY AT 

SEVENTY-FIVE PERCENT OF TOLERANCE. WOEMHOLE 

EFFECT DETECTED. REDUCE SPEED AT ONCE. ABLADIVE 

SHIELD FALIER ON DECK SIX AND NINE. EMERGENCY 

SHIELDS IN PLACE 

“All hands this is the captain! We are experiencing severe 

wormhole effect. Remain where you are it at all possible. We are 

attempting to break free now! Mr. Krota, two more if you please. 

Half the distance.” 

“Aye.” 

Data looked quickly up at the captain. “Sir a detonation of 

that size could have a crippling effect on the ship.” 

“It's not going to matter much pretty soon anyways is it 

Data?” 

The torpedos rocketed out from the center of three ports. 

They exploded as one. The wormhole effect was shattered and the Q 

drive rainbow pike began to slowly unferul. The _____ was without 

power. She tumbled end over end through the dissipating vortaseeze. 

Derick gathered himself. He pulled his hand from the 

androids shoulder. His fingers left quite an imprint. He looked back 

at Denora. She was just standing, as was the doctor. He was looking 

at them but they were not looking back at him. They were focused 

on the view screen. “Well, we made it.” 



“Captain.” Data said. 

Derick could tell from the expressions of the crew 

something was not quite right. He turned around. “Oh my god.” 

Now Denora was closer behind him. Is that what I think it 

is?” 

He nodded. “It's a black hole. By the looks of it, a very old 

one. What they call a slow giant. Yellow alert. Doctor see to any 

injured and keep me apprised on the situation” 

“Aye sir.” 

“Mr. Krota how are the shields?” 

“Main power is off line. Secondary systems are functional 

but some of the relay grids are down. Abladive shielding is down. 

Defector shield down to fifty percent. Crews are working, but there 

is heavy damage and some casualties sir.”

 Derick perced his lips tightly. “Pike get down there.” 

“Yes sir.” 

“Ensign can you bring us about? Get us out of this spin I'm 

really starting to feel ill.” 

“Negative control sir.” 

“Emergency thrusters. We can slow down a little. Level 

off.” 

“Aye sir. Power to thrusters.” 

The black hole was a mammoth monster. It looked like 

galexie. It was a slow, churning mass of cloudy debris with white 

bright center. The bridge was bathed in its soft glow. It cut through 

the shadows of the yellow emergency lights. They were still out a 

ways from its edge but Derick knew it was not far enough. Not 

without warp drive. All he wanted to do was zip past this thing and 

go back to Gamma-Alpha, or home for that matter. But where was 

home now? Where in gods name were they? “Data. Time to 

intercept.?” 

“This black hole is a slow giant. It may have formed five



hundred thousand years ago or more. The core is illumnated do to 

the massive amounts of particulate displacing along the edge of the 

epicenter. It gives the illusion of a great power source, however there 

is very little ambient energy produced from black holes. But they are 

powerful and distrcutive. We will begin to feel the effects of it's 

gravity in eight minuets thirty-two seconds.” 

“That's not much time. I'm going to engineering. Data 

network with the repair teams. Do what you can. Fast.” He gave 

Denora a quick smile. “You have the bridge commander.” 

“Yes sir.” 

At once he was off. The lift was dim and it gave him just a 

moment to think. Think of all the decisions he'd made over the years. 

The crews. Friends. Colleagues. It was never easy. Even things that 

should be easy were hard. Comms. Were down too. The Q drive 

knocked everything out. The lift settled and the doors eased open. 

The long main corridor was sparsely lit and people were nearly 

clamboring over each other at the intersection as he approached. 

There was yelling and he could smell something was burning. There 

was a sound of wires sparking. He jumped in the fray to the right. 

Soon he was in the control room. There were tecs. All around and 

equipment moving from one place to another. “Jesus.” He went 

accoss the main floor and down onto the core chamber. He found 

Pike there, busy with some tool at one of the wall consoles. “You 

broke my ship already Mr. Pike? This is not a good way to start our 

relationship.” 

“No sir. I know. Look, we need to replace a dozen relay 

grids and a mess of wiring in some of the lower bulkheads where we 

took some nasty hits but I'm confident we can have partial main 

power restored in less than seventy-five hours. It was bad sir but it 

could have been a lot worse. We're still here.” 

“Oh yes, we are still here Mr. Pike but things are definitely 

a lot worse.” 



Denora paced slowly behind Mr. Krota, her arms crossed 

behind her. She eyed Mr. Sula. “Anything from the probe?” 

“Negative. The vortex is too strong.” 

“Anything from Voyager Station, or Gamma-Alpha Kira?” 

“Nothing. All channels are clear. It could be interference 

from the black hole. I'll keep trying.” 

She stopped at on end of the bridge. The dark gray blanket 

of death was getting closer. “Data how much time?” 

“Three minutes, nine seconds.” 

“Red alert. All hands prepare for another round. Secure all 

stations.” 

Derick was helping a tec remove a wall panel. He rolled 

his eyes at Denoras announcement but this was it. Now every second 

counted. 

“Sir can you hold right there please?” 

“Yeah. I got it.” 

DENORA TO CAPTIAN LUMBARDIE. 

Derick tapped his comm. “Go ahead Denora.” 

“Sir I dismissed Data to deck eight to assist in repair 

efforts there. It doesn't look like we're going to get out of this after 

all. The thrusters just wont cut it. We'll spin ourselves in circles in 

the black holes gravity. We're just too close sir. I'm sorry.” 

“Understood commander. Keep the shields up as long as 

you can. We may be able to get more power before things get too 

unstable. Maybe enough to bring the abladive back up. Any luck 

getting a hold of anyone? Anyone at all? We should launch a beacon. 

Send it back the way we came with some basic info. At lest they will 

know what happened.” 

“Understood sir. Mr. Krato is compiling the data now. Will 

launch when ready but Mr. Targa is doubtful any probes will escape 

gravity. Here;s hoping though.” 



“Right. Keep me apprised. Lumbardie out. Well Mr.” 

Pike was nearly halfway inside the bulkhead now. He'd 

called over a tec and now the two of them were maneuvering inside 

the wall. The ship jolted heavily and the commotion in the room 

elevated momentarily. 

WARNING-ENERTIAL DAMPNERS FAILING-HULL 

STRESS APROACHING MAX TOLERANCE. RADIATION 

DANGER IMININT 

“Did you hear that Mr. Pike?” 

“Aye sir. I think-I've got it.” 

“Think fast mr!” 

Moments later the shadows were lifted and the ship came 

back to life. 

“Main power restored!” Pike yelled. 

The lights were back on but the ship was still shaking and 

the tremors were getting worse. Derick was away at once, into the 

turbolift and back to the bridge. He stepped in and was hit with a 

double blast of brightness from the bridge lights themselves and the 

now closer epicenter of the massive churning cyclone. He stepped 

slowly around and behind Data. It was difficult not to just stand 

there and be in awe of the thing. Ancient and awesomely powerful. 

If only they were not caught, helpless in its grip. “I don't suppose 

there a chance we can warp out of here.” 

Data shook his head sharply. “Negative sir. Warp function 

will require additional repairs. Even with full power to thrusters we 

are too deep into the gravity of the black hole.” Data looked at the 

captain. Somber and emotionless. “We cannot escape.” 

Derick gave a gallows smile. He squeezed the chair then 

walked quickly to the center seat. Denora was looking right at him. 

She wasn't nervous really. What could he do? What could anyone 

do? Derick turned to her. “I'm sorry Denora. It looks like this is 

where we get off.” The ship shook again but the shields held. “This 



is the Captain. Our attempts to free ourselves from the gravity of this 

black hole have failed. Although we have been able to restore power 

all of this chaos has damaged warp drive. We dont have enough juice 

to get out. Please remain at red alert status. Secure all decks. Mr. 

Targa, readings from the epicenter.” 

The Vulcun swiveled in his chair. “Gravametric interference is 

making scans impossible. The probe did not survive.” 

“Damn. Time to epicenter Data?” 

“Five minuets, fourty-two seconds.” 

“Of all the the bad luck in the universe. What are the odds 

we'd come out right on the edge of this thing? Billion to one?” 

Denora asked. 

Mr. Tagra offered possibility. “I believe the inadvertent 

worm hole effect may have become attracted to the gravitational pull 

of the black hole. Once we got close enough-” 

The ship rocked violently. The elevated station chair legs 

were locked in a track in the floor, which gave them added stability 

but Mr. Targa had not attached his restraint belt and the jolt sent him 

to the floor. He started to rise and Kira was with him. The lights 

began to dim again and Derick asked for the screen filter. Now the 

view was mostly white. They were entering the void. 

“Crossing the plane now.” Data said. “Nothing on 

sensors.” 

“How can there be nothing?” 

“Negative readings.” 

For a moment there was dead calm. A stillness Derick had 

never felt in space. There was gravity but it felt as though he was 

floating in place and would drift away of he removed the chair 

restraints. First it was in his head, a sort of light hotheadedness but 

now the tingeing sensation had moved to the rest of his body. It felt 

kind of good but he was pretty sure it wasn't. The vibration returned 

and had already escalated to a light shaking. Still the screen was 



blank white. “Mr. Tagra what are we seeing? What's going on?” 

“Black holes are believed to be bends or rips in space time 

caused by stars which go nova. Probably the bigger the star the 

greater chance a hole might be created but many stars die and do not 

create anything. Unfortunately this is a phenomenon we don't know 

enough about. No probe ever sent into a black hole has returned. We 

are one of the few ships ever to enter one. Sir, I believe we are 

experiencing an increased gravameric pressure. I am feeling slightly 

dizzy.” 

“Yes Mr. Targa. Data is there anything we can do to 

counter these effects?” 

“I am attempting to re-modulate the dampener. That may 

help some but the pressure is continuing to rise. Shields are holding 

close to 85 percent. Speed is-” 

Data was silent. Probably for a fraction of a second but too 

long for Derick. “What Data.” 

“29 light years per second.” 

The ensign gasped and he turned to the captain. 

Derick shook his head. The pressure was giving him a 

head ache. Denora was having more trouble too. “Derick to 

Dr._____.” 

GO AHEAD SIR 

“Where are you?” 

“Deck 11. We have some wounded and three casualties so 

far. I do have a hypo that may help with the pressure effects we are 

feeling but it's a compound that the computer isn't programmed to 

duplicate. I'll have to do it the old fashioned way. We're on our way 

to sick bay now and I will get on it.” 

“Good. Make it your top priority Dr.” 

“Data can we reverse thrust?” 

“It will have no effect sir.” 

“Why is everything white?” Denora asked 



“Time without time.” Mr. Tagra said. “I believe we are in a 

some kind of gravity well, or dimensional warp. We are traveling at 

such speed, however the effect is not as much on the ship as it is us. 

Still nothing from sensors. Shields still holding. Gravametric 

pressure increasing.” 

Derick glanced at Denora again. “Yep. We're feeling that. 

Any luck Data?” 

The Android continued to busy himself at the console. “I 

do not believe the changes will have much effect at this velocity 

captain. Shields are down to seventy-five percent. You may lose 

contentiousness sir.” 

Derick was not feeling very well. He was finding it 

increasingly difficult to focus on any one thing, thought or object. 

His mind was beginning to wander. “Data, you have to find a way to 

get us out of here before we fall apart!” He gripped the arm rests 

tightly. Doctor!” There was no reply. “Damnit. Computer locate Dr. 

_____.” 

DR. _______ is in turbo lift 1A. She is unconscious.” 

Data looked at the ensign. His eyes were open but his stare 

was strait and blank. Hypnotized by the pitch whiteness. Data turned 

to the rest of the crew. All were experiencing the effects. They were 

dying. Something must be done. But what? What! Then suddenly 

there were stars. They tumbled in all directions as the ship toppled 

from a jagged, flashing white tare in space time. It spun in all 

directions. The red alert klaxon sounded again. Data was thrust 

forward, smashing his head into the console with such force it split 

and he continued forward to the floor. There was a resounding 

explosion and a blueish-pink electrical fire cackled to life around the 

bent base of the console. The ensign was thrown from his chair. He 

landed to the right. The ship began to shake violently and was on the 

verge of breaking up. 



CHAPTER 4 

THE TIME KEEPERS 

Derick knew that smell. It was the best part of his day. He 

knew soon (wifes name) would come in with a tray. Hot coffee and 

scrambled eggs with ham mixed in with salt and pepper. It warmed 

his soul. He rolled over in the soft king size bed. The first lazy rays 

of sunlight had begun creeping through the thin outer drapes. 

Someone had forgotten to cover them. As he was stuffing pillows 

behind him for support, she stepped in. Derick knew he was the 

luckiest man alive. She was so beautiful. 

“Get it while it's hot.” She smiled and handed him the 

silver tray as she slid under the white silk sheet next to him. 

“Wow, thanks babe. This looks great!” 

“Well you're welcome captain.” 

They shared a laugh. Yeah, ex captain. 

She kissed him and ran a hand through his hair. “I love 

you.” 

“I love you too sweetheart.” He ate the eggs and bacon and 

. He shared the toast with her like she liked. The ham though, he 

saved for last. Two nice thick slices, warm and fresh. But something 

was wrong. It hit him suddenly and he was confused by the 

sensation. He looked at her. His eyes began to narrow. Hers did 

slightly as well. 

“What is it Derick?” 

“I-I'm not sure. Something-something isn't right. I know I 

must sound crazy.” 

“She rubbed his shoulder gently. “I would never think that. 

You know what. What is it that's not right? Is it the eggs? Too dry? 

Maybe too much pepper, I'm always doing that.” 

He looked back down at the tray. He took a drink of orange 



juice. Fresh and cold. He looked around the room. 

“What's wrong dear? Why are you looking at me like 

that?” 

“I-it's just that-” In a blink she was gone. Suddenly he was 

on the bridge of ship he first served as first officer. The Renegade. 

She was taking fire and the red alert klaxon blared. He gripped to the 

arm rests of his chair. His captain and friend Jeffery Frakes was just 

to his left, barking orders. They'd been over run by Remin fighters 

and reinforcements were not arriving soon enough. His friend was 

about to die. There was an explosion at the tac station. A piece of 

debris struck Frakes on the back of his head. He fell forward as he 

stood, dead before he hit the floor. Derick watched helplessly. His 

restraints would not disengage. “Jeff!” Then all was white. There 

was nothing. No sound, no smoke. He found he was able to close his 

eyes and open them. That was the only movement he was able to 

make with ease. He was constricted by something unseen. He felt 

nothing on him, however it felt as though he were bound. With 

considerable effort he was able to make a fist with his left hand. He 

tried to raise his arm. He fought but it was little use. He rested. He 

felt drained. After a while he tried again. This time he was able to 

raise his arm just slightly. The next time he took a long deep breath 

and was able to thrust his arm upward. His fist collided with an 

invisible particle field which produced an array of blue and red dots 

and he felt a jolt. It angered him. He swung his arm up again and the 

shield batted it immediately down. “I was dreaming. I've been 

dreaming. How long?” Derick tried to yell but no sound would 

escape his mouth. His heart began to race. 

The face of a humanoid looking male appeared in the 

white above him. He had a well pronounced jaw line, dark eyes and 

a wide brow. “Captain Lombardi, please remain calm. My name is 

Dr. Bremshaw. I have been overseeing your stasis. It was time you 

be revived, but it will take you a few days to strengthen and recover 



from your sleep. Please respond if you understand.” 

Derick gave a curt nod. “Sure doc. Whatever gets me out 

of this case.” 

“The force field has been removed and you have 

movement. See, you are unharmed.” 

“The top of the oval shaped case cracked apart from the 

bottom end. There was a rush of cold air and it gave him a start. He 

saw he was naked save a thin pair of light colored shorts. 

“Please do not try and strain yourself Captain. Your 

muscles will be tense. Try and swing your legs over the edge of the 

bed. The floor is just below you. Slowly. That's it.” 

Derick rested his forehead in his palm. He felt beat up. His 

hair was wet and he was starving but other than that he might have 

expected worse. He glanced around the room. The walls seemed to 

glow white, there but not. There were a couple tables off to one side 

with things on it he was unfamiliar with. Alien torture devices of 

some kind. He saw there were other stasis beds. Seven in all, 

arranged in a circle. The floor was black like oil. He gazed down 

into its emptiness. He knew something was not right. He braced 

himself hopped down. The floor was freezing as was the room. 

“If you look to your left you will see we have repaired 

your uniform and boots. I trust our comfort stockings will be to your 

liking.” 

Derick went over to the table. It too was white and nearly 

blended into the walls. His uniform was at its edge, pressed and 

nearly folded, minus his comm. He raised the question. 

The voice of the doctor answered him. “Your data chip 

insignia was smashed during your voyage. Everything has been kept, 

however I do not control when you will have access to your ship and 

things. I am just the doctor assigned to you and your bridge crew. 

They will all awaken shortly. We wanted to revive you first so it will 

be easier for your crew.” 



Derick finished dressing. It fit like a glove. He pulled the 

top tight. He took a deep breath. He looked at the other pods. “This 

is them?” 

“Yes. All survived and in remarkably good condition I 

might add. Your ship must be made by gods. What might I ask is her 

name. I'm sure she has one.” 

“It's The ______. 

“Fine name. I see there were 586 souls aboard. 

Unfortunately there were some casualties. That's something you can 

look at later, when you're up to it.” 

“Yeah I am feeling a little dizzy. This is normal?” 

“Quite. Nothing is wrong. We breath a slightly denser air 

than your species, so that will be another adjustment. Right now the 

air in this chamber is O2 saturated so you can breath well and find 

your strength fast, but when the chamber is opened you will feel the 

difference. You will acclimate well though. Our climate is generally 

mild. Tropical, that's a word from your dictionary I like. Your 

English language is very interesting. Very few people ever get to see 

something like this. 

“Please doctor, would you mind freeing my people. I'd like 

to get out of this box and speak to whoever has put us in it.” 

“Of course. You are not prisoners. I have been instructed to 

comply with your requests and see that you find your way to the 

council chamber. You will meet the leaders of my people. Very few 

people have been allowed inside the chamber. It is the most sacred 

place. It will be a great honor.” 

“What do you call yourselves?” 

“We are Kleven. We have existed here for close to two 

million of your Earth years. I have had a chance to look over some 

of your history, what little our engineers were able to reconstruct 

from your ships damaged archive. It seems there are still lingering 

questions on your world as to your species origin. No one seems to 



know. I find this curious.” 

“The quest for understanding of existence is at the core of 

what human beings do and that is explore. Personally I've never seen 

god. Maybe you've been around long enough and one's paid you a 

visit.” 

“But why do you allow your government to keep such 

knowledge to themselves?” 

“Honestly doc., I don't think that much about it. You can 

talk to my science officer when he wakes up. He's Vulcan, so the two 

of you should get along great. My only concern right now is the 

safety of my crew. Now wake them, please.” 

“Right right. Sticking to business. A fine gas is entering the 

pods now, this will endues waking. The same message your saw is 

playing for them now. All read outs are in the green. The pods will 

open soon.” 

Shortly there after the remaining pods opened and the 

bridge crew were free and stretched about the pale room. Denora 

stayed close to Derick. They were standing near the door. It opened 

suddenly and Dr. Bremshaw was standing before them. He was well 

over six feet. Thin and noble looking. He was dressed in a gray one 

piece uniform with gold colored buttons up the chest. He wore white 

gloves and thin dark glasses over his eyes. He nodded and smiled. 

“Captain. Commander Reckeff.” 

She cut the doctor off. “You seem to know an awful lot 

about us.” 

“Well like I told your captain we were able to access some 

of your computers basic files. Yes, we know who all of you are but 

not exactly where you have come from. We imagine some great 

distance, but your ship was not half full. Many of you are from 

different worlds. I look forward to learning of your peoples travels 

and maybe one day the general public will know of your adventures 

as well. Maybe. For now your entire existence has been kept totally 



secret and it shall remain that way for the time being. We are an open 

society. Intelligent and explorers in our own right but my people 

know nothing of warp travel and the bending of space time. 

Quantum energy. It's useless to us.” 

Pike had joined the two at the door. He whispered over 

Dericks right shoulder. “Data.” 

Derick nodded. “We have an android on bored. As I 

remember he took a pretty bad hit. I'd like my man here to have a 

look at him, see what can be done.” 

“By all means. I will have one of my people take him to 

the robot. He is in ruff shape. We do have machines which may be 

able to assist in repair, however it may take some time to reconfigure 

our system. We've never seen anything like this Data before. You 

give it the rank of a second in command! That is a lot of power for 

non sentient. As good as any of my peoples fiction writings.” 

“Someone can take Mr. Pike here to Data but I want to see 

my ship, or what ever is left of her. Can you do that? 

“Yes Captain I can take you to the holding bay but I cannot 

allow you access to your ship as directed by the Council. I am just to 

assist in your crews acclamation to the reality of your situation. You 

are very very far from home.” 

“When will we see the Council?” Denora asked. 

“Tomorrow, after you have toured the larger facility here 

and met the best minds of our people and you will of course be 

starving. I can assure you, our culinary delicacies may even rival 

some of your own.” The doctor clapped his hands in front of him. 

Another tall Kelvin in a matching uniform appeared from around the 

tight corner. “This is Dosh. He is my assistant. He can take Mr. Pike 

to the robot. Would the rest of you please follow me.” 

The crew exchanged uneasy looks but everyone went out 

behind them. Dosh walked strait down the long, dimly lit hall before 

them while Dr. Strange took the turn through a short corridor ending 



at a silver rectangle shape in the much lighter bulkhead. The shape 

rose up as he approached and they followed him inside. 

“Observation port 3,” the doctor said. 

It was an elevator of somekind but it was not well lit. It 

was difficult to tell what the panels said. Now the first nudgings of 

unease began to creep along the edges of Derriks spine. They were 

really crammed in here. Somehow there was room enough but with 

the dullness of the light it made him just about ready to scream. 

“Perhaps you have noticed we like to keep the lights a little 

lower than perhaps your people are used to. We have a certain 

sensitivity to the level of ultra-vilot light our gas giant star emanates. 

For a great many years my people reigned on the surface but today 

most have opted to live off home world or build underground.” 

“So we are not in space.” Said Darmock. He had moved 

closer behind the captain. 

“That is correct. We were nine miles below the surface. In 

ten seconds we will have acceded to the main crosswalk. This will 

take us to the facility in which your ship is stored. If you have too 

much difficulty in adjusting to the spectrolics of our sun, tell me and 

I can supply any member of your crew special filtering glasses. 

Similar to these I wear. It can give us headaches. Our colors are 

somewhat more intense and we generally try not to look at it, the sun 

that is. The colors themselves, well that speaks for its self.” 

Suddenly the gentle hum of the lift quieted and the door 

lifted with hardly a wisp and for a brief moment all was blinding 

white. As his eyes tried to adjust to the colors and light beaming 

through the windows of the surface corridor, the doctor went forward 

. He motioned for Denora and the others to follow along but he kept 

Darmok close behind him. He let Denora take the lead. “What is it 

man. I know you have thoughts.” 

“I urge only caution for now Captain. We are not being 

mistreated and this does look to be a rather well developed peoples. 



We need to see to the rest of the crew. I would like to assist Dr. 

_____ if it is all the same.” 

“I'm sure Dr. ____ would be happy for your assistance. 

What I cant get over is just how damn beautiful these woods are. 

Look at how the light bends in the water. Shoots out like rainbows in 

the wind. 

“It's kind of hypnotic. “Kira said. 

“A klingon cannot be hypnotized.” 

Derick turned to Darmok again as they continued through 

the tube shaped nature trail. “Just keep an eye open. Let's make sure 

we stay on top of top of the situation. We don't even know where the 

hell we are. We don't know anything about these people.” Derick had 

similar words with Krato, Kira and the doctor.” 

Soon they reached the other side. The doctor touched a 

small plate to one side and the large metallic door rose with a series 

of dull clangs. It revealed a grated floor and a catwalk which 

extended half way over an open area. The doctor continued on and 

took the three steps onto the walkway. Denora hesitated at the edge 

just for a moment before continuing across. 

“Come on, please, it's perfectly safe. Our structural 

engineers are the best. They built this entire facility in under two 

years. At that time we could accommodate close to thirty thousand 

people, comfortably. Now, we are over three-hundred thousand but 

now all just here. This is one of our, well, lesser known facilities. As 

you can see, the upper saucer portion of your large vessel has 

remained mostly intact. There is some structural damage. There's no 

need to get into causes and things of that nature. The lower hull is a 

little more worse for wear and as you can see one of your nacells has 

been detached. The good news is we were able to locate it, but it was 

heavily damaged and leaking all sorts of things unknown to us so it 

was decided against bringing it back, but the Council felt it 

important that the wreckage be held.” 



Derick glared down at the battered, broken shell of his 

ship. God she was big. He gripped the yellow rail tight. Flashes of 

crashing through space time raced across his minds eye. He knew he 

should be dead. He'd felt it a dozen times but every time he opened 

his eyes there he was, laughing at certain death. That's why they 

picked him for this. The man who can get back from anything. 

“Right. Even this?Look at the ship. It's in half. Not even going to 

warp with that and it would take, damn. Data. Data would know 

how long. He'd know where we are too and be able to access the 

main computer. He's the only one who can, or could. Derrick 

remembered the jolt and explosion that rocked the android. It was a 

violent smash. Any humanoid would surely have died but there was 

a chance for Data, maybe a slim one. The question was, could he 

trust the Kelven. This doctor fellow says we are top secret. That 

sounds like it would be more difficult to say, escape and then where 

would they go. Without the rest of the crew, many on their first deep 

space voyage, nowhere. He was feeling for all of them and the ones 

who died in the getting here. He looked at the Kelven. “As soon as 

my engineer has repaired Data I will be wanting access to my ship. I 

want to know where we are and what exactly happened.” 

“I completely understand your desire for information, 

however that is a decision for the Council. I myself do not have 

access. I can assure you though no one has been on board since you 

first arrived. I led the first team aboard after our probe photoed you 

adrift and hemorrhaging all of the gods know what. We were 

completely shocked to find as many of you as we did. Many were 

already unconscious, injured, confused. We quickly analyzed your 

biology and determined our deep hibernation system would be the 

best thing to do and it was done quickly and painlessly. We treated 

wounded as we found them. A few crewmen needed to be stunned 

only for their own safety. It was the best way to rescue your crew 

and keep our governments desire for secrecy in tact.” 



Derrick managed a tight smile. “I'm sure your people did 

everything necessary doctor. I guess we were damn lucky your 

people shot those probes into space when you did, or we'd be 

goners.” 

“Quiet literally. Your life support reserve was at fifteen 

percent. You were all unconscious when we made it to the bridge. 

Limited power. In the next couple days we were able to learn some 

things about who you people were but the computer seemed mostly 

inoperable. Smoke was billowing from the face of your, metal man. 

You say it talked. Just like yourselves?” 

“The Data unit is standard issue on all star ships. In a pinch 

there are things he can do better and faster. He's also way stronger 

than any member of the crew and way tuffer.” 

“Maybe not quite tuff enough, It was quite a sight. We 

have it on disk for you. We recorded most of the rescue. Your crew 

are actually not here in this facility. This is our Capital base. These 

underground levels are totally top secret. You and your bridge crew 

were brought here separately that you might be addressed by 

Council at one time and then to be allowed to speak on behalf of 

your people. We found your weapons as well.” 

Kratos eyes narrowed. They hadn't left their pale skinned 

escort. He seemed smooth. Confident but keeping secrets. Trying to 

steer them in certain directions. He'd noticed his dagger and phaser 

were missing. Probably lost in the chaos. Probably. But they 

wouldn't have found the one in his long leather boot unless they'd 

taken it off and they hadn't. He could feel it. In the other boot were a 

couple other suprizes wating for just the right potential moments. 

These people had never encountered a Klingon before. Never met a 

mind bred for blood. Today the blood spilled was that of the Remin 

ghosts. It glows on the ground and fills the room with a hazy glow 

and an enormous stench. Worse than spoiled blood wine. What did 

these Kelven know of war? “Could we be at war now and not quite 



know it? I don't trust this man. I cannot see into his soul. These 

people cover their eyes to erase their lies. Watch him.” 

Derick took a deep breath and let it out firmly. “Yes we do 

have some weapons. No sense in coming all this way unprotected. 

I'm sure your Council will see we are of no harm to them or any of 

your people. Besides, the ship doesn't work.” 

“Oh quite the contrary Captain. There are still uses for 

your star ship, weather it can be flown or not. This Quantum phase 

technology is unstable and dangerous. We disconnected the circuits 

between the core and the intermix chambers. We were unable to 

access the core.” 

“As you were unable to imitate the restart sequence and 

access main computer.” 

“Precisely. Well what do you think? Satisfied? Your ship is 

here and in far better condition that you could have imagined. Now I 

will take you down one level to our consumatory facility. You may 

as well try some of our food. You may be here for some time.” 

The group followed the doctor down off the catwalk and 

out again into the tube. 

“We eat much the same things your people eat, however 

your Earth contains a much broader range of species to culinate 

from. We must work with what we have but over the centuries we 

have developed technologies which have allowed us to expand our 

culinary efforts.” 

“You can clone and manipulate d.n.a.” Darmock said. 

“Yes but applications for such tec really are limited. Sure 

we can create a virtually endless food source but what other use 

really is there for it. Body parts? Before you know it, it's not even 

you anymore. My people enjoy the ideas of Sci Fi as much as much 

as yours do. You have come so much farther than we have ever gone. 

Your ship is something of an amazement to us. We never would have 

found your Earth.” 



The elevator door lifted as they approached and the 

sardines went back in the can and it closed again quickly. 

“Level 1.” 

A light hum. No real sense of movement. Smother than a- 

naaaaaa. 

The door lifted and and they stepped out into a large open 

area with several square columns of a dark marble. Wide lights 

covered the high cealing it was however diffused into almost gray 

shadows. Candles on some of the pillars and walls helped. 

Derrick nodded. “Well I see you eat like civilized people 

that's well and good. 

Something already had turned Kiras nose. She went off to 

the right where a steam was rising. She made Krato come with him. 

The doctor turned and stood before them. He proceeded to 

remove his gloves and slipped them into a pocket. He then removed 

his glasses and revealed to them a striking difference. His eyes were 

the color of medium blue but they seemed to sparkle like a hot sun 

on the ripples of a paradise beach. 

Dr. ___ was fast at Derricks left. “What do I have to do to 

get eyes that do that?” 

The Kelven Dr. smiled coolly. His eyes rather matched his 

personality. Friendly but with something underneath. These were the 

things Darmok spoke to Derrick about in the early hours after their 

awakening. They sat and ate quietly with the people of Kelven. 

Derrick had become slightly nervous for one main reason. None of 

them had communicators. Dr. “cool” said he didn't know what the 

captain was talking about and it was entirely possible they were all 

thrown off and wreaked in the tumbling but Darmock found that 

difficult to accept. The Kelven also knew of the awsome destructive 

weapons their ship was equipped with and other technologies they 

likely did not possess but Datas lock outs would hold, maybe not 

forever. 



After some time, Mr Pike returned, his escort a few steps 

behind. Derrick could tell the man was tense as he stood. “You've 

been gone a while man, what did you find? Data I hope.” 

“Yes sir. They had him in a container the size of an old 

train car. There's a huge materials scrap facility here, but they kept 

him well enough.” 

“Well good. Now why don't you get yourself some of this-

white grass.” Derrick started to point to the table. 

“Sir there's-something else I'd like to speak to you about, 

maybe in private.” 

Now the captain was eyeing the engineer as tightly. He 

frowned and shrugged his shoulders. “Alright commander.” He 

motioned for the man to walk out into the common area. The din 

would keep their conversation hidden. Derrick stopped and pivoted 

to face Pike. He crossed his arms over his chest. “What is it?” 

“Well, it's mostly bad. His head took a bad shot. The 

primary memory core was pretty damaged. I took it apart and the 

engrams were all destroyed. No luck there. Here's the really bad 

news. When I went to retrieve the secondary core I couldn't because 

it wasn't there. There was some scaring and damage on Data's torso 

but the area where the core is was in tact sir. No damage.” 

“Any engrams?” 

“Nothing I could find. There's junk all over the place in 

there. I guess we could be lucky they kept him this long. Who knows 

what all goes on here in two weeks. In any case, we'll have access to 

the ship tomorrow right? After we-meet the leaders?” 

Derrick grinned. He relaxed his arms. “Yes, that's the plan. 

We don't need Data to restore power and resume basic ship 

functions. The Tyberius is damaged but all things considered I can 

think of worse first days on a new world. Listen Pike, I want you to 

take the lead with repairs. I want that drive back up. I don't want to 

be stuck here any longer than we have to believe it. I'll see about 



getting Data sent to your quarters, or work area after counsel. They 

have as many questions for us as we have for them.” 

“Well I don't trust them sir.” 

“Oh come on. Why not.” What have they done?” 

“Well for one, they kept us all unconscious for two whole 

weeks. Why?” 

“Maybe because we tumbled into their neck of the woods 

with hundreds of people aboard and scheduled to die. Right now we 

don't know anything. Let's just go with the flow for now. Get control 

of the ship. Change all the locks. Double encryption. Scramble all 

ship comms.” 

“Aye sir. If we can activate the ablative armor we will be 

virtually indestructible. Just stuck.” 

“Yeah, just stuck. Keep your eyes open. Work Data. See if 

there's anything you can salvage from his memory. Any bread 

crumbs. Anything. Report to me immediately. Now go eat you need 

it son. That's an order.” 

“Sir.” 

Pike headed strait away. Derrick stared at the crew. Now 

the Kelven were becoming more interested in their new guests. 

Some were nodding as they passed and others would stop. They all 

seemed to know the doctor. Most were seemingly pre-programed to 

take his hand when passed. Most of the Kelven who came and went 

wore the same purple and gold uniform and shaded glasses but he 

saw some who were clearly different. These wore a completely white 

outfit and they were of clearly a feminine persuasion with a striking 

gold shine to their hair. They too wore the glasses. These dames did 

not eat with any of the groupings of people. They would come in, get 

their meals and take lunch elswhere. He saw how some of the 

Kelven were reacting to these blonds. They came and went quickly 

sometimes but everything seemed more or less under some manner 

of rule. They were at lest not barbarians. Denora had stood. She was 



looking in his direction. He was in a deep thinking moment. Tired. 

Unsettled. The air tasted funny here. He didn't like it even though his 

own doctor ad well as the Kelven said this air could easily ad thirty 

of more years to their life. He wanted the air on the ship. He wanted 

to be aboard her now blasting out of here. One thing at a time. He 

made his way back to the table. The others had stood and he faced 

them all. “Alright that's enough sight seeing. I don't know about the 

rest of you but I need to have a real damn dream. Our friend here Dr 

_____ is going to take us to our rooms and tomorrow we will see the 

council and formal introductions and all that. Then we can fix the 

ship and go home. So I will expect to see all of you in dress 

tomorrow.” Derrick closed his eyes and shook his head. “Tomorrow. 

God, when is it tomorrow on Earth. “It's nine hours of shore leave 

then it's back to work. Spend it how you wish. There's a wake up call 

seeing as how we all managed to lose our wallets. You are dismissed. 

Dr. ____. 

The Kelven nodded. “Yes. I hope you found something at 

lest to your mild enjoyment. The cooks try keep things different. 

Now we will get back to the elevator and ____ and myself will show 

your to our dorm area. We have arranged a section closed for your 

privacy as well as security. I'm sure you understand.” 

Most of the crew had gone in. It was just Darmock, 

Derrick and Denora. Derrick gave the Vulcun a firm hand shake and 

he too went in. When it was just the three of them Derrick assured 

the doctor they would be alright and they were left in corridor. They 

both looked back and forth nervously as though trying to hide some 

deep secret but really it was more Derrick reacting to Denoras 

ligetement look of unease. He smirked. “What? You've hardly said a 

word the whole time. I thought you were just being polite but the kid 

and Darmock keep looking at me the way you are right now. Kratos 

on top of things if thing's start to get ugly. He had a couple extra 

emergency phaserers tucked under his belt. You know how it's wider 



with the emblem. Well thank the stars, two made it. They don't know 

we've for em.” 

“You think they left us in our uniforms the entire time? I 

know what I'm doing as soon as I get in there.” 

“In where.” 

“The door right behind you.” 

“Oh right. Your door.” They shared a light laugh. It felt 

good for both of them to have just a moment of normal. Something 

that felt right. 

“I'm sure it's fashionable. Why don't we check it out 

together.” 

Derrick tightened his shirt. “Sure commander. Please.” 

“He just pressed this button here just like this. Right? And 

then-” 

“Nope. Backwards. Here then here.” Derrick finished the 

sequence and waved his hand in front of the door like a wizard. It 

seemed to take forever for the door to actually open and when it did 

the motion was top to bottom and not very fast. The edge cluncked 

into the floor space. Just about even. They stepped in. 

The room was fairly spacious with a comfortable domed 

ceiling. The space was lit like you were standing in the inside of a 

hollow snow ball. In some areas small candles slowly burned and in 

others soft pools of circular light. It was warm, mysterious and 

inviting. In the center of the space was a glass, coffee size, table 

lined by two black seating arrangements. There was a tall, crystal 

shiny bottle sitting right at one of its edges. It caught Denors eye and 

she went to it. Derrick took a few steps off to the left, past an 

enclosed model of some foreign mechanical devise. The walls of the 

room were gray with highlights of a dark red looking wood. He 

made it to the adjoining room entrance. 

Denora Picked up the glass of liquid. It had a card tide 

around it. She flipped it over. It surprised her. It was supposed to be 



funny but she didn't like it. “They know everything about us,” she 

muttered, really to herself but just loud enough that someone off in 

the distance might pick up on it. 

Derrick had discovered a wash room. There was a sink and 

what looked like a shower area to stand in. There was a strange 

attachment on the wall there. He just had poked his head in when she 

spoke. “What was that lieutenant?” 

Denora pulled the card easily away from the glass and set 

the sparkling container back down. She went to him. “They know 

everything about us.” 

That was what Derrick had thought she'd said, he just 

wanted to her to say it in that hyper paranoid way. He turned and 

looked at here. “What?” She flicked the card at him giving him no 

choice but to take it from her like she was ten. “Better than Russian 

Stolie.” Derrick took a deep breath. He tipped the card back to her 

with a quick wink. “Drink up.” He gave himself a laugh. That felt 

even better. “Don't worry about anything. If you get nervous 

tomorrow just stand behind Krato. That's what I'm going to do-wellwe'll-

you know-be there together.” 

“All of us. I'm not nervous. Are you nervous about all of us 

being together with the counsel tomorrow?” 

“Not unnecessarily, no. There are no reasons for immediate 

alarm. Data's smashed but I'm putting Pike on that. But lets assume 

at lest for right now everything we do and say is going to be pretty 

closely watched weather we like it or not. I think for the safety of the 

crew we should just set to going about with repairs to the ship. See 

what we can get done along those lines tomorrow.” 

“I'll be happier once we can at lest get the heavy shields 

up. We need protection. Get the people out of hibernation. Then we 

can get on sooner.” 

“Agreed. Once we're on board, secure weapons and secure 

the bridge. Find out where the holes are. Maybe if we got really 



lucky one or two drone repair modules survived. Won't be much but 

a start is better than nothing. First trick-” 

“What is it?” 

Derrick turned to look behind him a third time. 

“Are you going to tell me what?” 

“It's nothing.” 

“Awfully distracted nothing.” 

“I thought I heard something for a second that's all. I'm 

tired.” 

“What did it sound like?” Even before she finished the 

question she could see more reaction on his face. “What now?” 

“I-you didn't hear that?” 

“Honestly captain I didn't hear anything.” 

“It sounded like-It sounded like this thing my older brother 

used to do to me when we were growing up. Used to drive me 

insane. Literally. One night he did it just a little too much and I got 

up in the dark and I-and I beat the living s**t out of him. Broke his 

nose with my fist. There's a tiny scar. When I pushed him off my bed 

he kicked out in the dark and caught me square on the bone here just 

under my eye. I nearly lost it. After that him and I never really did 

talk. There's a piece of metal in me Denora that was the difference 

between Star-Fleet and the street. Sure I miss Earth, I miss my 

people as much as the next person but it always seems like when I'm 

home, when I'm down there I miss this more. You know what I'm 

saying?” 

“Of course Derrick. It's the ultimate rush. The high of your 

lifetime. The first to see! It always has to come with a price doesn't 

it. We know we lost some good people.” 

“Yeah. But moral is high and we are being treated well. 

They know you like to drink yourself to sleep. I would think that 

would be something to your liking but if you're so disinterested and 

untrusting perhaps you wouldn't mind if I had a small sample. Just a 



touch. I'm curious.” 

“Well then I'm sure I can find us one or-two glasses or 

something. This side might have something. This looks like a 

warmer for something. What was the thing your brother used to do 

that terrorized you?” 

“He would stick his finger in his mouth and pop his cheek. 

Sometimes he would take it too far. I don;t know why I got that in 

my head all of a sudden. Derrick stepped back into the main room 

and at in front of the screen. The couch seemed to fit to his body. It 

was very comfortable. “I wonder what sorts of things these Kelven 

do to entertain themselves?” 

Denora made her way around next to him. She sat and 

handed him a thin glass. “Congratulations captain. You did it. You 

brought us farther than anyone could have imagined possible and we 

are alive! There were a few bumps but we made it. We're in the 

books now, we just have to make-it-” The glass began to tremble in 

her hand. She'd risin it to give him a toast but now it frozen, Frozen 

in fear. 

Derrick could see she was in some sort of distress but she 

would not speak. He set his glass down and attempted to take hers. 

She continued to tremor. She'd begun to perspire. Suddenly she 

seemed to snap out of it. She looked right at him, not through him as 

she had been. Her brow narrowed. She looked around, seemingly at 

some loss. She released the glass to him. Her hands were still 

trembling. 

“Denora what is it? I lost you there. Are you alright?” 

“I-I'm not sure. It was strange. For a moment I was home. I 

was a child and I was home in New Russia. I could smell the bread 

mother makes. The dust. Father was home too. I could hear his boots 

up stairs. He drank a lot then.” She looked up at him. “What just 

happened?” 

Derrick took one of the glasses. He took a sip. “Wow that's 



good. Here, try it.” 

“Thank you.” Denora finished the glass, much to Derricks 

suprize. “Wow. Strong s**t. Stolie tastes better but that's not too bad. 

It's weird you know, the past creeping up like that and both of us? 

What do you think it means?” 

“I don't know. I'm starting to get a little claustrophobic. It's 

time to call it a night.” Derrick stood. No no commander please 

relax. It's been a long, long day for all of us. Get some real rest. We'll 

re group in the morning. Sound good?” 

“Yes captain. Probably rest is all we need.” 

Derrick excused himself from another situation he might 

just as well had stayed in. But now was not the time. He needed a 

clear head for tomorrow. Repairs could begin, the sooner they could 

be on their way back to Gamma-Alpha. 



CHAPTER 5 

ALL THE KINGS MEN 

The furnishings of the Kelven people were quite 

comfortable, Derrick had to admit. The food was a little strange but 

the subterranean way of life they'd built for themselves seemed to fit 

them quite perfectly. He wondered if they all slept on a bed as 

comfortable as the one he did for the first night. It felt as though he 

hadn't slept in ages. He was fully awake but faced with nagging 

fatigue. They'd been kept in a deep quorentine stasis for most of the 

first two weeks. Finally, they were released. He could remember 

nothing from that. The last thing he could see is fire exploding 

around Data and a hail of sparks over head. He squeezed his eyes 

more than once to try and block the images out. The crew were 

strong. Resialiant. They were being tested early. Such a comfortable 

bed. 

In what seemed like a blink, an electronic winking forced 

him to sit up. He ran his hands through his dark hair. He noticed a 

square shaped panel on the side table to his right was glowing a soft 

crimson. He touched it. The alert ended and a soft womans voice 

came from the speaker. “Good morning Captain Lumbardie. I trust 

your first night with us was a pleasant one. No bumps in the night.” 

Derick grinned half heartedly. He mouthed the word. 

“Bumps.” Were they trying to relate” He wondered just how much 

they actually did know about him and his crew. Anything really was 

too much at this point. Better to make caution the letter of the day 

and at lest get the ship under control. Maybe bring Data back to life. 

It would make getting home a whole lot easier. He slid off the 

smooth bed and over to a cove washroom . He splashed a bit of 

water on his face. He took a good long hard look in the mirror. This 



was what it was all about. Face to face with the unknown. He 

stepped away from the mirror and began buttoning up his top. The 

first thing he was going to do do when he got aboard was change 

into a new uniform. The Kelven jumpsuits did not apeal to him. 

They would have to forgo the more formal dress uniform today. “No 

ma am everything was just fine. In fact I think that was the best sleep 

I've had in a long time.” 

“Well that's splendid to hear. My name is Lenore. I am 

here now to escort you and your crew to the council chamber where 

you will meet with the elders of our kind. The remaining 

descendants of the originators of our life here.” 

“Well that sounds quite fascinating.” Derrick straitened his 

top and approached the door. It separated and revealed one of the tall 

blond females they had seen bustling in and out of the common area. 

She wore a skin tight red outfit with no trim or id features. Her hair 

was blond and full and her eyes sparkled the most amazing blue. 

Ever from a distance this shine was noticeable but closer on it was 

all the more distracting, hypnotizing even. She nodded curtly and 

stepped back a bit, motioning for him to come out. Derrick really 

wanted to ask weather she was an android but he resisted. Real or 

mechanical, these women were something special but why did some 

of the women wear the more modest jumpsuits and head cover while 

the others walk around as they do? He looked back at here a time or 

two as they continued down the hall toward the elevator. 

“Bay three.”

The lift hummed on.

“Has my crew been assembled?”

“Everyone will be along. I think you will enjoy the ride. We try and stay out of the direct sunlight, however some of our pods do have a few windows. The land around this facility has been virtually untouched for generations.”

“Well from what I have seen so far the Kelven have done pretty well for themselves here and you do a bit of star exploring as well, that's impressive.”

“To some, yes. Not all of us are that excited about the possibilitys and prospects beyond home. But I must say, your people, the humans, you do have some interesting qualities. Some of you are

, taller than others.”

Derrick shot her a quick glance. The doors split. She stepped out before he could form a sentence. The docking bay was a wide open space lit mostly from high above. Things looked to be mostly automated. Very industrious. Clean. There were two control towers, one closer to them, the other off to the left. There were several craft locked into position. Maintenance operations were taking place. Once in a while an automated droid of one kind or another would zip by. The bay door was one elongated opening. Beyond it Derrick could see a pale blueish-pink sky and the the richest color of green he had ever seen. Everything here seemed to shine just a little brighter.

Right away he saw Denora, Krato, Pike and Dr. ____. They met in a loose circle. Everyone looked rested. “Mr. Krato. Impressions.”

“No weapons. Subservience but no armed guards. None I have seen but I recommended caution. We know very little about them. Everyone needs something. These people are no different. It just depends on how badly they may need it.”

“Agreed. Remain vigilant. Mr. Pike I know you have all sorts of estimates. Just give it to me strait. How long?”

“Three months, minimum.”

Dr. Sara exhaled hard.

“Perhaps Mr. Pike that number might come down a little if the Kelven render us a little assistance. I don't see a problem with that as long as things are tightly monitored. I wouldn't expect anything progress on Data this morning but keep at it.”

“Aye sir. I don't like it. The port is undamaged. Maybe they somehow got it open. If they did it's only a matter of time.” Derrick looked sharply at Denora. She was off his left shoulder. Her eyes widened. “Did you hear that?”

“Hear what? What did it sound like?”

“It was like, some sort of angry chanting.”

“Like a mob, or a gang.” Krato interjected. I too have heard such things. In the night, I was restless and I heard some of them laughing at me.”

“You're certain these sounds were directed at you?” Denora asked.

He looked at her in an evil glaring way. “A Klingon knows when he is being mocked but the demon escaped my dagger.”

“Dr. has anyone else mentioned hearing anything strange. Not just members of the crew but have you heard any talk from the Kelven?”

“No. This is all new to be sir. I have had no such experiences but there is a lot we don't know about this planet. The atmospherics here could be playing tricks. Once we are aboard We will all get a full work up. That's number one priority Captain. I know how anxious you are to get things up and running but first we have to make sure we are all on the up and up. That's all.”

“Yeah. I'm sure you're right. Full battery once we get the power up. No complaints from anybody. Here come the others. Denora will you brief the stragglers, I want to have a closer look at that ship.” Derrick stepped through the circle.

Denora turned abruptly. She was happy to see the others; Darmock, Mr. Silver and Kira. They were followed closely by two quite taller, darkly shaded Kelven males. They stood with Lenore as the crewmen joined the group. Denora faced the crew. “Alright ladies and gentlemen this is what we've worked our whole lives in Starfleet for. We have been given the opportunity of a lifetime. Lets play it strait. Respectful and polite. Keep your eyes and ears open. The Captain doesn't want this meeting to take all day. The goal is access to the ship and the expedition of repairs. Starfleet built us a tuff ship. Look at us, we are here! Let Mr. Pike worry about Data. We don't think they have access to the mainframe, or any access at all for that matter aside from basic files. Once the meet and greet is finished I want Dr. Sara and Krato to see to our people. Mr. Pike and Mr. Darmock will oversee repair duty rosters and double your efforts

to find out what happened to Data. Where is his secondary core? My gut tells me the Kelven will play dumb. Watch. I'm sure the captain is saving that.”

While Denora was talking a silver, pill-shapped craft with quad exhausts arrived in the hanger and curved toward the group, coming to an effortless halt some feet before them. The engines coughed and smoked with hot light. A portion of the shuttles curved hull split in two horizontally and retracted to reveal a beige light orange interior with spacious, comfortable seating. Lenora stepped quickly to the the crew. “Please board quickly. The council is expecting you.”

Derick Smiled at the woman. He gave her a quick, half handed salute. “You heard the woman.” Derrick had already started to wish his crew were a little more, “self starting”. They seemed only to want to move after he did, or after being specifically told. He guessed he had been the same way. It's something he'd never really thought about. He thought perhaps he was noticing it more now because of the uncertainly of their situation and the nervousness it was causing the crew, although they wore the brave faces. He knew what they were all thinking. The crew surrounded him like he was god. Granted, that was the main job of a bridge crew, he just could do with a little extra space. They entered the shuttle and the door closed. Once they were seated, the shuttle ros and glided silently out into the landscape. Fast.

-My name is Moto Duras. I am your remote pilot. All systems are at normal function. Safety straps are available if we encounter any bumps along the way. This station is built in the crevas of an old volcano. Wouldn't know it today with all the vegetation. We have to get up enough speed to get over the shelf, then it's smooth sailing. It's a hell of a view, especially the first time-

Derrick was seated at a window. Denora was to his right. The seats were plush and comfortable. The shuttle hardly made a sound as it sped through the canyon. He could see the curve of the crater wall approaching. It rose higher and higher until suddenly the

shuttle blasted upward.

“Impressive mechanics. These pee shooters are smoother than our shuttles.” Mr. Silver said.

“Well when we get repairs under way you might get a chance to give it a try. Some of the hull damage is severe and we're missing an engine.”

“No problem. We'll be warping out of here in no time.”

“That's the spirit Mr. Pike.” He turned in to Denora and spoke in a low tone. “Let's get this over with.”

She nodded.

The flight to the Kelven Capital Center took around 20 min. The architectural style of the Kelven had a organic and flowing feel. Long shadowy curves. Deep edges. The council chamber building looked like a giant, cone shaped snail shell dipped in molten hot gold. The surface of the building was so sharp, Derrick could see even the tiny reflection of the light gray pod as it came down lower over more densely constructed buildings. Many Kelven lived and worked here.

A wide flat area surrounded the base of the main building. The diffuse glow of the alien sun gave the gold a coppery crimson hue. An oily, almost unsettling sheen. This open area was reserved for docking and parking. It covered the circumference of the building. Today looked like a slow day. Traffic on approach was light and there was no delay. The shuttle slowed and slowed and in no time it was down and the door was open at once.

-Hope you enjoyed the ride. Please exit the pod and proceed to the Center building. You will be greeted shortly. Myself or someone just like me will be here when your meeting has concluded.-

Derrick chose not to respond. He led the way out into the warm air. It was quite pleasant. Just a light wind. “Well people, we walk the rest of the way. I know we all want to get our hands on a piece of this ice cream cone but lets keep our eyes focused on the prize.” They proceed.

As the group came closer to the building a portion of it pulled back to reveal a large, domed entrance chamber with arches and dark shiny stone. Wide pillars were adorned with ornate portrate carvings and depictions of events. The lighting was soft and from unseen sources above. Kelven were here. Some walked in one direction or another, others were congregated in small groups. Most still wore the jumpsuits, but others dressed in a more casual way. These were a people well adapted to their environment. They seemed at peace. But here, finally, there were guards. Two. They wore gold armor head to toe and stood back to back with sharp tipped staffs. Frozen. Derrick knew they were real. He could see the heads turning. He stepped in front of one and introduced himself. Lights blinked on and off in the guards face grid. He proclaimed it was now his task to escort him and his crew up to the Council Main

Chamber. Derrick nodded in agreement. He always kept one eye on the spear. It looked sharp enough to cut through just about anything. The armor the guards wore was hard and strong but these men carried it strong. They looked ready to fight giants. It was not what Derrick was expecting.

Krato stepped closer to the captain. “The Kelven do have warriors. Now I am impressed.”

“Warriors. Champions.” Dr. Sara said. “I guess they feel pretty sure having two of them here huh. What I wouldn't give for a blood sample.”

The Dr's comment seemed to resonate with the guard for he stopped for just a moment as she spoke and turned a bit before continuing on. Perhaps these warrior oafs were smarter than they might look. Hard to judge a man you cant really see. The guard stopped at one point along the rooms edge. He touched an area of the wall with the tip of his staff. A portion of the wall separated revealing darkness.

Kira could sense Kratos unease. He didn't like it. She didn't like it either. She'd begun making a habit of half hiding behind the brooding Klingon. He was about the only that made her feel safe at all at this point. Out of the fryer and into the intergalactic frying pan.

“You must step through. The doors will close and you will rise to the chamber ampfathrown room. An assembling of the high elders awaits you.” The guard tilted his spear slightly toward the space.

Derrick gave the group a quick look and the best of a fake grin as he could muster. They went in. The doors returned and it was very dark. The air was cool. He could feel a slight vibration in the floor. Up and up they went. Then there was a feeling of setteldness. Slowly the darkness began to give way. The walls of the chamber had the look of smooth, water erosion, like that of an ancient cave. The walls were high and angled away from the area in which they stood the higher they roze. They were surrounded. At the edge of the wall was darkness. The higher level of the chamber set in such a way as to create a ring of deep shadow. Derrick could see movement but it was impossible to see what was going on. Then a pail blue light illuminated a tall figure in a long robe. He was noticeable taller even than any Kelven he'd seen. This person was a giant. As the light intensified slightly the elder had a long crop of silver hair tied losely back and a wide jaw line. His eyes looked dark and almost evil in the inky shadows. Around him were other Kelven but they remained out of the brighter light. They were milling about. Derrick could hear them. The alien whispers. He stared back at the lited being. He opened his mouth but the elder spoke at once.

“My name is Fesh Amon. The Council has chosen me to speak first and welcome you officially to our world. We apologize for having have kept you all in stasis but for safety and security reasons it was deemed necessary. We have never seen anything like your ship before. The Tiberian. This must be a name of some great significance where you come from. I'm sure you have many stories which would amaze and fascinate our people. However it is the feeling of the Council that the existence of your ship be kept secret. The base where you came from is classified. So is everything and everyone in it. It's the safest place for your people on the planet.”

“Well thank you Fesh Amon. I am Captian Derrick Lumbardie. I command the ship that ended up in your backyard. On behalf of the United Federation of Planets I present to you the crew of the U.S.S. Tiberian. These are my people.”

The Elders gaze seemed to penetrate through Derrick. He could see the Elders eyes more clearly now. Ghostly. Almost entirely blue. A light blue, with dark pupils. Could he see at all?

Derrick continued. “We have traveled very very far on a peaceful mission of exploration and discovery. We are interested in information exchange and so on and so forth but what I'd really like to do is get back aboard ship. See what sort of trouble we are dealing with.”

The elder faded suddenly. He vanished. Almost behind them another color beamed. A dull, sandy orange. In it's ora stood an equally statured elder. This one wore the hood of its robe up, further concealing himself. His voice boomed seemingly from all around. Deeper and darker than the others voice. “Captain. I am Senva Tolis. You want to return to your ship so you can activate your weapons. You want to arm yourselves. Your species has dedicated much time and effort into your destructive capabilities. Now we can understand the need to feel secure but honestly this is excessive. Dangerous. The need for secrecy is the utmost. No one can ever know what you've created. What need do your people need with such arsenals?”

“With all due respect Senva, domestic military matters are really not going to get us very far. I will say this. We come from a place a determined enemy is continuing to wreak havoc across the galexey. For a number of years it was my job to hunt these-creatures.

They have weapons that could severely damage this planet if they ever got here but the odds of that might be kind of low. In any event, it never hurts to be prepared. In any event, our weapons systems are off line. Still. So there is no foreseeable danger.”

“No Captain, there is danger all around. Why else would you feel the need to surround yourself in a cocoon of war. It makes me want to pull our satellites from the sky. The farther out we go, only lies greater danger. You will have full access to your ship. But your systems will be closely monitored.”

“As would be expected. While we're on the topic of access,

there is a little issue with one of my crew. Data, the android. He had a little accident on the way here and well there are a couple pieces of him that seem to be missing and I was just wondering of yourself or anyone else could shed some light on what might have happened. That's all.” Derrick tightened his lips. He rocked gently back and forth on his heals several times quickly. He knew what was coming but any answer was better than none at all. The response would not come from the that elder though. He now faded into the dark. There was more shuffling around and unknown murmurings in the dark. Then another elder appeared. This one was hooded, tell but thinner than the others with a wide bald head and heavy looking eyes, bathed in red glow. This one spoke in a softer more feminine tone. “We made several attempts to activate the Data unit, however we were not successful. The council is unaware of any malice towards it. Is it not likely these parts were damaged or destroyed in your travels?”

“Possible but unlikely. You see, Data is equipped with two memory cores. Now one of them was destroyed in the crash but the spot where the other core is located appears undamaged. My engineer finds this hard to believe.”

“As I have said Captain, we have no knowledge of any wrong doing in regards to your android. If you like, we can look further into this matter. Perhaps come to a resolution that will satisfy

you before you return home. That really is all we can do at this time and it is of time.”

“The fools!”

An angry voice from some hollow place echoed through Derricks mind. Was it in his mind? He glanced back at the crewmen. None seemed to have reacted. He let a moment pass, sure he was not playing tricks on himself.

“Captain?” Denora said. She could tell something was bothering him. He had the same look she'd seen in their quarters. Both sure and un sure. He looked past her and back up at the elder. He opened his mouth to respond but something stopped him again as he tried to speak. A laughing. No, more a gearing. He almost felt as though he was being mocked but not by the Council. The mob cry dimmed and faded away but it stayed with him. He collected himself.”

“Of course, I'm sure every effort will be taken to find out what has happened. I appreciate your allowing my engineer access to

Data. Once we get him aboard our ship we may be able to get some better answers.”

“Ah yes. You are in quite a hurry now to be on your way. We have analyzed the damage to your vessel. We estimate you will be with us for at lest another six months. There are many able bodies

Kelven who would surely jump at the chance to touch your mighty vessel, however it would be better if for now your ship remain invisible. We are still in the process of assembling an adequate team but things are moving more quickly now. Soon, things can begin.”

Mr. Pike cleared his throat.

Derrick nodded without turning. “Six months? No. No my people can have the job done in three easy. I have a twenty-nine man engineering crew waiting to get their hands dirty. I'd like to get my people out of stasis as soon as possible.”

“Yes, we were very surprised to find you would venture so very far with so many souls aboard and not full to capacity even. Tell me Captain. Are there more of these, Starships?”

“Well yes. We have quite a few actually. We're pretty good in a fight but the Federation has gotten a lot of practice over the years. Your planet has never been invaded, or attacked?”

The orangeish elder disapered and there was another series of darkened shufflings from above which echoed off the cavernous wall. Derrick looked at Pike.

“I don't like it.” Whispered Mr. Tagra.”

Derrick shot the vulcun a stare. “What don't you like?”

“I'll guess he doesn't like the idea of Kelvens doing work in or on the ship. Sir. But if we dont take the help-”

The Captain nodded. Over to his left another light formed and the chalky white ghost of a being emerged. The elder seemed to be made of dust. Something wafted off the beings shoulders as it stepped into the light. Derrick turned to face the figure directly.

“The Council understands the necessity for expediency in this matter. We will allow you fifteen of you engineering team to be revived. This can be done immediately if you wish. We are sure your own doctors will want to assist in that. The work will be done in the secure hanger with the assistance of specially selected Kelven personnel. We have many questions. Will you permit us access to some of your data files, so we might learn more about your people and where you come from?”

“Finally.” Derrick thought. “Something I can agree to. Not that it's a good idea but it's whatever gets us home right? Right”

“Sure. After we are aboard I'm positive we can put something together for you.”

“Was there anyone with you? Following you perhaps? What is the nature of the reason you were flung upon our doorstep?”

Derrick took a long hard breath. He'd noticed something different about the air here. It didn't taste right. Almost bad. He was resident to say too much about the propulsion system. They didn't need to know this was a madin excursion. It was entirely possible they weren't even that far from Gamma-Alpha. Hopefully. Derrick was uneasy about that. He was having flashes of the churning mouth of the black hole. A gateway to endless oblivion but the ship crossed through. He swallowed hard. “The ships drive system is comprised of a complex series of mechanisms and chemical components. To be honest, I don't really know how it works. I put a lot of trust in my team. They got me this far.”

“You trust them with your life?”

“Every last one.”

“Confident but foolhardy. I don't like him.” The elder lifted his head indignantly and looked off into the darkness to one side. His light immediately was gone.

Derrick stiffened. Did he blow it? Suddenly, he began to feel dizzy. Everything around him started to shutter and blur together faster and faster. He felt as though he would fall backward but did not. The shuttering slowed and he found himself facing several rows of angry yelling people. They were dressed in an old, disheveled manner. Some stood atop their seats, further accenting their rants. One of them must have thrown something. Derrick took a strike to the back of his head. Not a sever blow but enough cause him to pitch forward and have to catch himself. He whireled around but there were quite a few of them around. They all blended in together. Where the hell were they? A temple of somekind. He was very confused. The people were yelling and pointing at him but their voices seemed just out of his range. He could here little things. He shook his head, trying to steady himself. Just as he was starting to feel better the jarring sensation of shaking reemerged. All of the people shook together until he could see nothing. Then all at once he was looking back at the crew. They were looking at him as though no”thing had happened but Derrick was sure something had. He just wasn't sure what to say about it. He was someplace else. He could see those people and they sure as hell could see him. His head. Derrick snapped his hand up to the spot where he was hit. It smarted.

He could feel a small abrasion. It wasn't a hallucination. Now he was

getting impatient. He could feel his pulse rising. What he wouldn't give to get into fresh cloths. Anything would do. Thankfully the dresswear was on ship. There was always next time. No one liked them. “Alright people lets just stay loose. There's something weird going on and I-”

“They already know! They already know! They already know!”

“Did anyone hear that?”

Everyone shook their heads.

“They already know. I'm certain I heard those words. It sounded like a childs voice. Like loud whispering. Dr. Is it possible something in the Kelven air would be causing us to hear or see strange things. Maybe I should ask them why their air tastes funny. They probably have no idea what I'm talking about.”

Kira gave a quick laugh. “They seem to have a pretty good grasp of English for as short a time as we've been here. They could be using a translator.”

“They already know what? Captain. “Who already knows?”

Derricks answer was interrupted by the illumination of all the elders. They glowed above like ancient spirits. One of them spoke but it was impossible to tell which. The voice was deep and brooding, almost mean. Derrick had the impression these Kelven didn't like them very much. They were very taken aback by the Federations weapons. Almost offended that they have them. These people had obviously never encountered the Borg, or the Breen or any Remins for that matter. These people were pretty well isolated and insulated it seemed but there was unease in all their voices.

“We find you to be a most interesting yet morally mute species. You seek to control what your find and what you cant control you blast with technology. We see clearly the dangers in reaching out beyond our own stars. Perhaps we are better off staying right here and living out our natural course. Time will tell. In any event, you are here and while you are here you will be treated the same as those around you. The base as a whole has been informed. You and your crew will be free to move about with certain restrictions of course. No one is permitted to leave the station without authorization. When your selected team is ready, repairs to your vessel may begin. I believe your time frame is reasonable. Some of our peoples best engineers are right here in the city center. Others are already at the station. We are sorry to see what has happened to your droid. A curious piece of hardware.”

Pike frowned. He was hot. He could tell Krato was too. It felt and looked like a musty waterlogged cave.

“Is there anything you wish to ask of us before we adjourn? As fascinating as your arrival is we do have other appointments.”

Dr. Sara touched the back of Derricks shoulder and whispered something.

“Yes, my medical officer was wondering if she could have a sample or two of Kelven blood for-comparative analysis, you know. Science stuff.”

“I believe there are supplies of blood in the medical bay where your crew wait in stasis. We will communicate your request to the facility manager. His name is Genard Huss. He is a hibernation specialist among other things. He designed the stasis beds you found yourselves in. If you'd like, a separate shuttle is available for your doctor to see to the crew and the rest of you can get on to seeing to your ship.”

“Well it sounds like you've thought of everything. Thanks for stopping and giving us a hand. The Federation is very appreciative of your efforts and one day perhaps will return the favor. Maybe not for a very long time. Time will tell.”

“That it will. Fare thee well brave Federation crew. We will look forward to hearing stories of your peoples gurneys. Welcome to our home. May your find a piece of yours here.”

The elders faded then the room around them dimmed. Soon they were in darkness.

The guards left the crew at the main entrance they'd walked in through. Surprisingly they were allowed to walk out onto the docking track unsupervised. There were two shuttles a short distance ahead. Derrick led the way. Dr. Sara to his left and Denora at his right. The craft to the left was mostly red and the other the same as the one they arrived in. A voice boomed down to them. “ The red shuttle will take your doctor to the lab. The rest can return to the base.”

Derrick rested a hand on Dr. Saras shoulder. He leaned in as if to tell her a secret. She nodded and walked quickly to the craft. He motioned forward and the crew on to the other craft. He looked up again at the immaculate gold swirl of the building. Not enough gold on Earth or Mars for anything like that. It was a sight.

( 1 hour later) (interlock hatch corridor)

Mr. Pike had been at the door console for twenty minuets. He could feel the captain burning hate into him. His fingers were stiff and he was trying not to sweat profusely. Now he was on the floor, upper body in the bulkhead. The ship had no power. The lockout override could not be accessed from the emergence access point anyway. They had to get in.

“Just-don't say anything until you have it.” Derrick said.

“Aye sir.”

Derrick closed his eyes and shook his head. This was the beginning of some long says. Nights too. Krato was close behind him. He knew how bad the klingon wanted to get his hands on a phaser. He did too and shields. The Kelven knew a few things about his crew and ship but they didn't have cloaked ablative shielding and

Mark 8 quantum torpedo. What Derrick couldn't wait for was to get the damn replicators back up. He needed some real food. Badly. He started to smell smoke. Then saw some emanating from the square hole Pike occupied. “Mr. Pike?”

“Yes sir.”

“Are you burning my door down? Are we going to die trying to break in to our own s**t?” Derrick made himself laugh. “Ship? That's what I said.”

“Ship sir.” Krato echoed.

“Thank you Mr. Krato. Pike why am I seeing smoke?”

“It's nothing sir. I'm trying to hot wire the emergency circuit to the generator. There was an unexpected power surge. I'm not sure what it causing it. Could be anything. My ship is full of holes.”

Derrick smiled. “Well it is your ship mr. and it's up to you to get the door open so we can fix her and fly the hel-” The double-door hissed apart and he was immediately wrapped in an invisible blanket of is own air. It hit him like a wave. He took it in again and again. Stale but still it tasted better than the Kelven's. It was dark inside. They were near engineering. The Kelven escorts had provided them strangely shaped flashlights which they all had to flip around to figure out how to operate. They helped Pike to his feet, so he could lead the way.

“You know sir, there's a really good chance I won't be able to break Data's encryption. We could be stuck here forever.”

“That's not something I want to think about while we're stumbling around in the dark. Just get to the service hatch. We're two decks below engineering. Just at the end of this hall. Here we are. Krato, with me. On three. One-two-three lift!” The seal squeaked back and the trio made their way down. Derrick was doing everything he could not to step on Pike's hands as they descended. It was pitch dark and their erratic lights made the climb almost impossible but they made it to the engineering junction and were able to open the hatch and gain access to the deck.

Luckily, engineering was intact. The core was sealed. It was cold. Derrick looked the core up and down. Hard to tell with the lights off but it looked stable. “Bless you Data.”

Pike sat at a station in the lower, semi circular control room. It was the only place on the ship where the lockout could be overridden. The station contained an isolated power cell which was sealed tight and hidden and even if in some miracle way someone connected it, only two people on the ship knew the start up code. Pike busied himself about making the connections. He worked fast. He felt a little better to at lest be back aboard. The faster he worked the faster they could leave.

Derrick sat at one of the floor stations near the core. Krato

went off to have a look around and see to an armory nearby. There was nothing else to do but wait and see if Pike could get the lights back on. Even that would be something. He couldn't help but think about his experience in the council room. Was he just tired? He knew he had not done that well but the councils opinion of them was perhaps tepid at best anyways. God he was dreading learning just how far from home they were. Would the quantum drive work? It might fling them into another wormhole. End up on another island of space. Somewhere where no human has ever gone before.”

“Yes, damn you. Power on!”

The hum of life returned to the ship. The consoles and wall displays activated. Even the air started to circulate. Derrick's eyes opened like saucers. He jumped up. “Well done Mr. Pike. What works?”

“Everything but-well-the works and weapons but if they start shooting, now we can go dark. They don't know how our shields work.”

“We have tec. They don't May they never have to fight those battles.”

“These people would be assimilated, or tortured to death.”

“Mr. Pike.”

“Sorry sir.”

“I don't know. You could be right but something just feels off to me. I don't know what it is.”

“Oh my god.”

“What?”

“I know how far from Gamma-Alpha we are.”

“Well let's have it.”

“--------------. Even if we push the drive to the max the whole way, which we can't, it would take us nine years but it's going to be longer than that. Jesus.”

“We screwed us pretty good huh. Damnit. There's no point in sending a message this far out. We might just as well get back before it does.”

“Probably right sir. I never dreamed I would make it this far. Impossibly far.”

“I want a damage assessment pronto. Double check the data. Make sure we don't miss anything.”

“Yes sir I-”

Derrick had been speaking to Pike over comm but he rose and stepped into the room. “What is it?”

Pike looked like he had seen a ghost. He turned his head slowly to look at the captain. “We've been here longer than two weeks. A lot longer. I knew it.” He spoke almost in a whisper. He looked around. Past Derrick, making the captain feel uneasy.

“Get hold of yourself. There's no one here. Even if the Kelven made it down here there's no way they could get the power on. I see no sign of malfeasance. I see the core diagnostics. Looks good. How long?”

“Just under six months. You heard what the elder said. Another six months! A slip of the tongue perhaps.”

“Or a test. See how intelligent we really are. They lied to us. That means we have something they want. My guess is there are a few things they are interested in, including our weapons despite their aversion to powerful space weapons. My money is on the core. That's the big prize. They'd probably kill themselves trying to remove it.”

“God sakes. You think they would try?”

“Probably at some point, given this new information. Now we know we are not exactly the most welcome of guests after all. It was too good to be true really. Greed trumps everything. Damn. Maybe we just taught them that. Maybe they intend to use our own technology against us. Use it to bargain for our lives or something. But that wont work and if they kill us all now without the lockout decryption they may as well blow the ship up but obviously they haven't gotten to that point yet, which is why we are standing here now and not still in stasis. They had to let some of us go at some point. But now the game is out of their hands.” Derrick looked off to one side. “Do we have comm badges around here?”

“Yes sir. They're in a storage locker around the core. I was just about to grab some.”

“Go ahead and do that. I'll monitor. This is going to take some time.” Derrick sat and quickly located the base. He connected to the med bay and asked Dr. ------- to connect him to the stasis facility. Shortly their after and slender Kelven in a gray suit came into view. She was Dr.------- assistant and explained he was in the process of giving his crew mate a tour of the building. Derrick asked

that she contact him aboard ship as soon a she returned. The side screen went dark. Soon Pike returned with a small clear bag. He handed Derrick a thin gold insignia comm. Even now he felt a little better but not much. “Six months!” He sighed hard and leaned back a little in the chair. It felt good to sit is something familiar. He stared

at the data, more through it.”

“What do you want to do sir? I think we should tell the others.”

“No.” Derrick shot the young man an eye. “Say nothing. We have a hand but it's not too strong right now. Understood. Reset the clock Mr. Pike. We're on Kelven time now.”

“Yes sir.” He leaned in and pressed a few buttons. “Done sir. Now what?”

Derrick turned slightly in the chair to better face the man. “It's going to take a little time for Dr. Sara to get the troops organized. Get Data down here. Run every test you can think of. If you need more access to the storage room where you found him I can try and get it but for now I want him here. Dismissed.”

“I'm on it but sir-”

“Find Krato. He can help you.”

“Aye sir.”

The ship was dead quiet. He looked through the curved transparent aluminum, past the core. Empty. Like a ghost ship. He began to imagine Remins lurking in the shadows of the catwalks. He could almost see their piercing, glowing eyes. It made him want a weapon. He stood sharply and exited the control room. He went past the core to a secure door. He input a code and the door slid open. A small armory. He grabbed a waist belt, a hand phaser and a tri-quarter.

-Audio interface restored Captain Derrick Lumbardie command protocols now authorized-

“Ah, thank you Mr. Pike. Computer hail the stasis lab again I want to remind them I wish to speak to Dr. Sara just as-soon-as-” Stepping out of the room Derrick was sure someone was standing in the control room. He could see a portion of it at the angle he was standing. There was some kind of movement. He hesitated a moment. It was hard to tell who it was from this distance through the window. Then it seemed to bolt suddenly toward the exit. Derrick ran out but when he got back around the core the main area was deserted and there was no one in the control room. Maybe he was just spooked, or nervous.

“Do you remember the story I told you about the man from another, who came to us in the absence of any technology?”

Hearing the words caused Derrick to laugh out loud. “Wait a minute. What the hell is going on? Is there someone here?

“The fool he won't see it.”

“Solves nothing!”

“Silence!”

Derrick flipped open his tri-quarter. He started walking around main area. Nothing. Not even static. “Computer full bio scan Derrick Lumbardie, begin now.”

The computer began. Heart rate was a little high. He was tense. “Computer begin ship wide audio record. Immediate encryption and archival and stand bye for playback.” Just as he was taking a breath he heard something that sounded like a low persistent

rattling. It lasted a few seconds and was gone.

“Captian this is Kraro. Would you please meet me on the bridge.”

“On my way.”

The bridge was a disaster. Cables and pieces of ceiling hung down in odd ways. Most of the back stations were shorted out and would spark from time to time. The overhead lighting was pretty stable but it did dim at times. The deep red carpet was astrune with dust and debris. There was dark burn scaring on a few stations and on the walls. It smelled bad. Derrick didn't even want to step in. Even the dimmer light was too much. He didn't like to look at this. Its of debris crunched under his boots as he made his way down to where Krato was standing, next to Data's station. “I remember. It happened just before it got bad and we went out. God, it was like the whole console just exploded in is face. Fried him good.”

“Perhaps it is better this way. Maybe we don't get him but at lest they never do. I told Mr. Pike I would help him soon but I wanted to speak with you first.”

“Yes of course.”

“How much do you really think we can trust these people?”

-Incoming transmission from Kelven lab-

“Go ahead Dr., we read you.”

“Yes captain, everything is fine here. This is a very impressive setup. They were able to mass produce them quickly and some were brought here from other facilities. In any event, I've looked at a number of the pods. As soon as I can get my hands on a tri quarter I can do dna cross reference but so far everything looks alright. State of the art really. Comfortable.”

“Don't get too comfortable Dr. Mr. Pike is on the process of issuing comms to all of you. I think we should all stay in contact from now on.”

“Understood. They organized crew mostly by uniform color so that helps. I am scrolling through the pod cams now on a pad. I can see them all. They look so peaceful. Dreaming the days away.”

“That's great doc. When you contact Mr. Pike have him tell you which people he wants. I'd like to get things under way right away please. The Kelvens computer should be able to locate Pike. If not we can try triangulating with the Tiberian. That'll boost the signal.”

“Understood. Sara out. He turned away from Krato and went to his chair. It had seen better days. He touched its side. I don't think the the council trusts us very much either Mr. Krato.”He looked back. “We need to get the ship back together and get out people home. Help Pike with Data.”

“Aye sir.”

Derrick sat. The chair squeaked and wobbled slightly. He felt the whole thing might fall off. “Computer is the main screen active?”

-Affirmative-

“Good. Show me where we are. Jesus. These two points. The start of the work hole and the black hole we got a little too close too.”

-Affirmative-

“What is the estimated travel time to Gamma-Alpha at safe speeds?”

-Twelve years-

Derrick sank his face into his hands. “Jesus.”

CHAPTER 6

THE DEVILS WORKSHOP

“Captains Log Stardate: 112994

I am pleased to report our continued success in bringing the Tiberian back to life. She is a true credit to her name. We owe her our lives. The Kelven have been surprisingly officiant in in their assistance, however there have been some technological hurtles for them to overcome and for us as well but now we both know enough that things can and have been getting done. I have not had much time for log entries. Time to work and eat and maybe sleep but not much else.

It is hard to tell what these people really think about us. They don't say much but do take direction very well and seem pretty intelligent. Mr. Darmock is still insisting to me something is not right but he doesn't know mine and the doctors secret regarding the true length of our hibernation. Everyone's work on the ship came back tip top. Was I hoping she would find something? Not really. We are just two weeks in to restoration and there is much to do. We may be here a little longer than I planned but maybe not.”

“Sweetheart, are you going to look at that thing all night again?”

Derrick grinned and nodded a little. He took a deep breath. It had been hours now. Endless reports, updates. Little things checking off the list, leading to something much bigger. He pulled his hands tight down his face and stretched his arms up. Maybe a five minute break might do some good. He swiveled his chair around to look at Lenore. He'd grown to love just staring at her, lying in the bed with the sheet loosely across her. Her head was upon the pillow but she faced away from him now and all he could see was her beautiful golden hair. It was always so lovely. No woman on Earth, or anywhere else he'd been, had hair like Lenores. It was more striking than the day she escorted him to the shuttle. Now he found himself looking at her in another way. He didn't know everything about her but things like that really didn't matter very much. Mostly she was a distraction. Being with her was no different than with a human woman. She was a lot stronger than she looked. Her body was firm and athletic.

Derrick went to her . He loosened the strap on his black robe and got in under the sheet with her. He took a deep breath in her hair. Se always smelled so fresh. He touched her shoulders gently and kissed her neck as she rolled over into is arms. They kissed. Her lips were warm and wet. He could not resist her.

Afterwards, she accompanied him to the bridge. She wanted to see what it was like to command the stars. The bridge had mostly been repaired, there were a few cosmetic items. His chair was

properly positioned and he allowed her to sit in it, however briefly. Then he took her into the conference room. Normally the best seat in the house while on the edge of a new world. Now there was just the inner wall of the storage facility. The ship barely fit really. There would be no keeping her in here once it was time to fire the engines. Of course Pike was having problems and ever complaining about insignificant staff. But Derrick was confident the man knew what he was doing. What he really wanted to do was spend some time with Lenore outside of the base, but that was strictly forbidden. Surprisingly, she did not leave very often and that was something she didn't talk about. She preferred not to discuss the specifics of her genetic makeup had decided it best not to press her, and risk pushing her away. He liked the chemistry between them. Sometimes it felt like he was home. He kissed her on the side of the head as they looked out and he talked about how fast the stars shot by when they go fast. She liked that.

They were allowed to walk in the wooded areas the above portions of the base were secluded in and that gave them a bit of extra to be together. It was nice to take these walks with her. Get out of the ship for a couple of hours.

Author's Note

This Purely fan fiction. There is some insinuation here I am copying some other story and that is totally nonsense. I know A LOT about Star Trek. Deal with it!!