30 December 2263
It must be Hyperspace lag or something. Half of me wants to explore every inch of every sector of this place immediately without stopping and to hell with sleep, and the other half of me can hardly keep my eyes open.
I don't know where to start. I'm sitting here in my new quarters aboard Babylon 5 and trying to sort out one jumble of a first day aboard the station.
It took longer to get here than I thought it would. It was a boring and stuffy ride. But when I saw the station for the first time it was an amazing sight. It's huge. I mean, everyone back home knows the dimensions of this thing, but to see Babylon 5 for the first time is something that memorizing statistics and looking at vids can't really prepare you for. This is a city floating out in the middle of galactic nowhere - an awesome, beautiful endeavor. Magnificent. It's hard to believe that we can really do something like this.
Inside has an even greater impact. It's a zoo - crazy with commotion. I've met a few aliens in my life, but here there are species that I've never even heard of - and you're elbow to elbow with them - living together. Talk about exotic. This is exotic. This is crazy. Think of the infrastructure it must take to support the needs of so many different kinds of beings. Gives me a headache. Glad I don't run this place. A lot of the commotion had to do with the second annual celebration of the formation of the IA. But I get the feeling that this place is always a zoo anyway.
After disembarking the rest of the new pilots and I formed up in the Docking bay for the traditional " new pilots ceremony".
I found myself standing in formation with 5 other new StarFury pilots. Out in front of us was our new Squad Leader, Lt. Cdr. Neni Ovambo. Across from us, tangent right, was another group of pilots - the pilots that have been here the longest - the station Top Guns. It's traditional for them to razz - I mean, " greet" the new recruits. And I couldn't believe my eyes, President Sheridan himself and Ambassador Delenn were there to greet us.
Captain Lochley was the first one to speak. She's a good looking woman, but I get the feeling that you don't want to get on her bad side. She welcomed us aboard and then introduced Ambassador Delenn and President Sheridan. She gave us the usual " we're the best of the best" rah, rah - " It's a a pleasure to meets us" etc. And then she strongly suggested that we take advantage of the advanced space combat training system onboard. Is that a mixed message, or what?
Then the captain motioned for Sheridan to speak next, but he gave way to Ambassador Delenn. By now we've all heard about the famous half-Minbari, half-human. But she isn't what I expected. She's actually kind of good-looking. She seems, for lack of a better word, " kind", or exudes some kind of " calm" or something. Whatever. I'm no philosopher. But there is something intriguing about her. I wonder if it's a Minbari trait. I'm use to thinking of the Minbari as highly dangerous. Again, not what I expected. Here are her words from a transcript of the vid-log of the proceedings:
Among the Minbari, Humans are known as fierce fighters who will never give up. We have learned much from you, such as your willingness to sacrifice everything for an ideal.
And then Sheridan stepped up next to her to speak. He sounds just like the Sheridan on ISN. The man exudes charisma. Here are his exact words from the vid-log transcript:
And that brings up the second reason why we wanted to greet you personally. This port of call - a two million, five hundred thousand-ton home away from home - could well be the last of the Babylon stations. It exists only because of the many people who have made great sacrifices - some the ultimate sacrifice. Because of them, and through the efforts of many others, Babylon 5 has become our last, best hope for peace - a place where diplomacy can be given a chance. And you men and women represent our desire to make damn sure that's the way it stays.
And suddenly all the seasoned pilots erupted in a chorus of " Hoo-awh!" These guys are gung-ho! Sheridan looked surprised, but very pleased.
Ovambo brought us to attention and Lochley spoke again. She told us about the data terminals in our quarters (where I'm sitting right now) and how we'll get our orders via either this terminal or via our cockpit terminals if there's a scramble. These terminals are also our connections to ISN, communications, and the station database. She again suggested that we check ourselves out on the simulator. I don't know about the rest of the recruits, but I qualified top of my class, did two years on Mars, and managed Top Gun status in two years. I doubt there's anything in the simulator I'm not ready for, but I'll check it out tomorrow anyway.
On my way out of the Docking Bay I ran into (literally) Lt. Eric Lyndon - one of the seasoned pilots. What a jerk. He was going on about how my " hotshot" record back on Earth didn't mean squat up here and some trash about how sometimes playing by the rules just doesn't cut it. It sounded like he had some ax to grind to me. Why'd he take the time to look up my record? Checking out the competition, I guess. If he was trying to unnerve me, it didn't work.
After he left this guy Lt. Nick Zingarelli tells me that Lyndon's a bastard, but also the best pilot at Babylon 5 - maybe the best pilot the station's ever had. Right. They haven't seen me yet. Watch your six, Lyndon. Anyway, Zingarelli seems alright.
Too much for one day. Need sleep. Signing off.
Max
31 December 2263
Just got back from two hours in the advanced training module. It's impressive. There are training missions for levels all of the way up to Fleet war games. Of course I only have access to pilot training.
The pilot sims are tough. I'll put it this way - your standard Fury pilot at B5 is the equivalent of a Top Gun back in the Sol system - if you go by these sims. You have to be good. Really good. Nothing I can't handle. Just the same I'm glad I kept my mouth shut when Lyndon started with me yesterday. Jerk. If he's so good I wonder why he's not a Squad Leader.
My assignment came in. I'm attached to Alpha Squadron - I'm Alpha 3.
There was a message waiting for me on Stellarcom when I got back to quarters from good ol' college co-conspirator, xenoarcheologist bud Alex.
Alex's message:
" Greetings! Heard through the grapevine about your transfer to Babylon 5. I just wanted to catch up with you and say congratulations! I know how much you've wanted that post.
" As for me… I'm heading up a dig at ruins discovered just outside of the T'Llin 3 mining colony, Za-phar. It could turn out to be a significant site, but you can never tell about these things. I'm not even sure if we'll be able to continue long enough to find out. A Narn zealot calling herself D'Bok -after one of their ancient gods, by the way- is claiming that this site is ancient Narn holy ground, and they want us to stop the dig immediately. Naturally, the Sh'Lassen government, which just officially took possession of the planet a few years ago, isn't interested in hearing their claims. But they're nervous. She's got a lot of followers. But there is no scientific evidence of a Narn presence - just some unsubstantiated rumors about artifacts found by collectors over the years. Anyway, Casey is waiting for me at the dig. See you around. "
I'm glad he and Casey finally tied the knot. They must be in heaven doing a dig together after all those years of ending up in different solar systems.
I have ISN customized for my interests now. I'll be adding items to the journal that may come in handy later. The following ISN In-Depth report arrived about T'Llin 3.
" Earth Alliance has extended its protection treaty with the Sh'Lassen Triumvirate to cover the planet T'Llin 3, a recent Sh'Lassen acquisition. T'Llin 3 is a desert planet dependent upon water shipments from outside of the system, but it is said to be rich in mineral resources. According to preliminary results, the planet may provide a new source of Quantium 40, the element necessary for jumpgate technology. Earth Alliance has worked into the agreement a mineral survey of the planet.
" In related news, a Narn religious leader and her followers are protesting an archeological dig, near the new T'Llin 3 mining colony, Za-phar. These protestors maintain that the site may be evidence of ancient Narn holy ground. If this is the case they demand that archeologists of their choosing should work on the project - and not -her words- " alien outsiders."
" Narn ambassador T'Lon forwarded this statement to ISN:
" It is well known that this story of a lost motherland is of doubtful authenticity. So far there is only anecdotal evidence of an ancient Narn presence on the planet. There is no need for protests now. I'm sure that the human archeologists are quite competent. Nevertheless it would be prudent to allow a Narn archeologist to observe the operation. Let's wait and see what is found out."
" Speaking from an undisclosed base of operations, the religious leader of these protestors, who calls herself D'Bok, sent us this reply:
" There are many well established stories of a lost motherland among our kind. Since early explorers on T'Llin 3 reported finding what they thought to be ancient Narn artifacts, we think there's a very good chance that T'Llin 3 is this lost motherland. Until we find out, we want to make sure that ancient holy ground is treated with appropriate respect. We will not allow priceless relics of our past to find their way into the hands of heartless artifact traders. Is this too much to ask?"
" More interesting perhaps is D'Bok's meteoric rise to power. This fiery and charismatic leader was completely unknown outside of fringe groups until recently. ISN analysts suggest that her newfound popularity should be seen in the context of a large, disenfranchised faction of the Narn population…a group that fervently believes that its newly re-formed government is acting too slowly in attempts to regain former worlds and re-establish " cultural purity".
02 January 2264
My first standard patrol is at 03:00 hours tomorrow. Fly around the station - make sure everything is cool. No big deal. Who am I kidding. Taking a nice long tour of B5 will be sweet.
A message from Jillian came in:
" Hey, bet you thought you'd never hear from me again. Sorry I've been out of touch, but I'm about to head out to the frontier. Now's the time to buy stock in Universal Terraform. That's a joke. Yep, I got a big, fat surveying contract with UT. I can't talk about the details, of course, but there's lots of work. It'll be sharing territory with some Drazi and Abbai surveyors. My new ride is a Skydancer. Yeah, yeah, I know, ugliest ship in the skies - it ain't a Starfury, but I like it. I'm calling her the Badger. Ok, I've rambled on long enough. I'm heading off to the Ju'Pai Quadrant. Talk to you later."
Ah, Jillian. The one that got away…
03 January 2264 05:00 HOURS
First B5 mission:
The following is a tidied-up transcript from my cockpit voice and mission logs. It starts right after strapping into the Fury:
03:10
Okay. Getting all settled in here. Flip that and that. Rotate that. Speed Indicator, check - O2 Level Indicator, check - Hull Integrity Indicator, check - Weapons Selection/Deployment module, check - Long Range Scanner, whoa! This has range! Very upgraded from standard EA issue. Display Screen - okay - Incoming Communications, check - Target Info Display, check - EM Oscilloscope, check - Navigation Coordinate Display, check - Ship Relative Attitude Display, check - Ship Status Indicator - okay - Hit Display, none - that's nice - System Status - okay - Engines, ah- check - Life Support, check - Comms, check - Computer, working just fine - and my favorite, the Targeting Reticule - Check, check and double check. Everything looks cool. Just waiting for flight control to drop me now.
03:13
Okay - still waiting.
It's obvious this bird has seen some action. It's been repainted, but noticed lots of new welding on my -
Channel 9 Lieutenant McCoy: Whoa! Nice rush coming out of the Cobra Bay! Thanks for the warning Flight Control.
Channel 9 Flight Control: Alpha 3 this is Flight Control, welcome aboard. Assume standard patrol Sectors Seven and Ten.
Channel 9 Lieutenant McCoy: Flight Control this is Alpha 3. Roger - WILCO. Out.
Tweaky. The controls on this Fury are tweaky. Much more sensitive than standard issue. Think where you want to be and boom! - you're there.
03:20
Babylon 5 - what a sight.
04:00
One hour down - one hour to go. Just flying around - making friends with this Fury - getting along just fine. I will be one with the bird. I crack myself up.
After checking it out up close it's obvious that the station has seen some action. Lots of blast marks. Lots of patches. The ordinance on this baby is legendary though. She can take care of herself.
04:25
Hey - look at that. Mission Data on the HUD.
Channel 9 Captain Lochley: Alpha 3, you will escort the freighter Journeys End, which is cluttering our space, to the jumpgate and see that it jumps out to anywhere else but here with no further delay. Lochley out.
Whoa. She sounds pissed.
Channel 9 Lieutenant McCoy: This is Alpha 3. Roger - understand without delay. WILCO. Out.
04:26
Okay. There you are.
UNICOM Lieutenant McCoy: Journeys End this is Alpha 3 - I'm right on your six. You heard the Captain.
UNICOM Journeys End: I get the message. Don't get your shorts in a bind. I'm leaving. I'm leaving.
04:29
Okay. No problem. This guys outta - what the hell? What the (delete) is he doing?
UNICOM Journeys End: Hey fighter jockey. Here's how I feel about your stinkin' tin can-for-a-station with all its bloody rules and regulations. Eat my garbage.
What a scum bag! The captain jettisoned his garbage and then jumped out. Son of a -
Channel 9 Captain Lochley: That's the last (delete) time that miserable (delete) excuse for a pilot ever docks at MY station!
Sorry, Alpha 3. I'm afraid you're stuck with this one. That garbage he's jettisoned is a hazard to the navigation lanes. I'll have to hold up all traffic until you can clean it up. Think of it as target practice. And work fast. Traffic's already backed up. Lochley out.
Channel 9 Lieutenant McCoy: This is Alpha 3. I'm on it. Out.
Crap. Okay. Let's get this cleaned up. Play time!
04:38
Channel 9 Lieutenant McCoy: Flight Control this is Alpha 3. You can resume ops. The garbage man is coming home.
Channel 9 Captain Flight Control: Alpha 3 this is Flight Control. The Captain is standing right here - hang on.
Channel 9 Captain Lochley: That was fast work, Lieutenant. Believe me, I appreciate it. You haven't lived until you have fifty or so ships yelling at you all at once because they can't go anywhere. Good work.
Channel 9 Captain Flight Control: Alpha 3 - return to base. You are relieved by Alpha 7. Out.
Alright. First patrol - get to come in early - get the gold star. That's the way I like it.
Ah - computer. Send cockpit log to personal journal.
Max
10 January 2264 11:00 HOURS
Not much going on until last night. I've been wandering around the station getting to know the place. Zingarelli got me drunk and dragged me through a maze of dimly lit corridors to a place that's called " Down Below". It's an unauthorized living space where a variety of down on their luck species called Lurkers live. Desperate souls. Rough place. Zingarelli neglected to mention that it's off limits until we got there. I'm set for beer stories for awhile. There is " entertainment" down below you can't even imagine back on earth.
Anyway, last night Alpha Squad was scrambled. My first scramble. The guys and I were playing cards in the standby room when the alarm went off, and then a " This is not a drill" announcement from Flight Control. We hit the Furies in record time.
When I strapped in our orders were already waiting on the HUD. As I dropped out of the CBay the Captain reiterated the briefing. Following is the cleaned up flight log transcript.
09 January 2264 23:05 HOURS
Channel 9 Captain Lochley: Alpha Squad, we've just arrested a terrorist and learned he's placed a bomb in one of our forklifts. It's out there somewhere running an evasive Autopilot program that will eventually take it to the fusion reactors. If it blows a hole to those reactors, we've had it. Find it and take it out!
Channel 9 Alpha Leader Lt. Cdr. Neni Ovambo: This is Alpha Leader. WILCO. Out.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Listen up. Here's how we're going to do this. That lift is going to be a speck against the superstructure. It could be anywhere. Alpha 2, 3 and 4 go directly to the fusion reactor and spread out. You're our failsafe. Go! Alpha 5, 6 and 7 you're on search with me. Switch to channel 5. Ovambo out.
Alright. May as well take a look up here along the raw materials storage area on my way aft.
23:21 HOURS
Damn. Nothing.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: this is McCoy. Nothing here.
Channel 7 Alpha 2: Negative sighting.
Channel 7 Alpha 4: Not a sign.
And here comes the rest of the squad.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Alpha 2, 3 and 4, I have you in sight. I take it you didn't find it either. Alright. Our rogue forklift must have one nice avoidance program running. Here's what we're going to do. Alpha 2 and Alpha 4 stay put at the reactor. The rest of you are with me. We're going to run a fine toothed comb across the station, headed back towards CIC. Alpha 3, take a path along the storage area again - only this time check every nook and cranny up there. Alpha 7 take 180 degrees opposite. Alpha 5 take port side. Alpha 6 take starboard side. I'm going to take a spot towards Sector 7 and run scans. Go!
Okay here we go. Let's try something a little unusual - a little inverted searching - there we go. Let's see if you're hiding between the storage structure and the hull.
Come on, little forklift. Come out, come out wherever you - there you are, you little weasel!
23:37 HOURS
Channel 7 Alpha 3: this is McCoy! Got a lock on it between the Micro Gravity Maintenance Bay and the hull. It's creeping along heading aft towards the Raw Material Storage containers. Can't risk a shot where it is.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Alpha 3 - take a position above the Maintenance Bay out of radar range. Alpha 6 and Alpha 7 converge on the lift slowly from the port side. We don't know if it's programmed to blow if threatened. Try to flush up to the top of the Material Storage structure. Alpha 3 - if you get a clean shot you're authorized. Alpha 5 - converge from the starboard side. If you get a clean shot you are authorized. I'm on my way.
23:38.5 HOURS
Channel 7 Alpha 3: 6 and 7, I see you. He's creeping along upside-down between the structure and the haul - closing on midway along the structure.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: Okay. He must have you on radar. He's avoiding opposite your direction - coming towards me. Come on. Come on - got a clear shot. Alpha 5, hang back. Firing now. Bingo!
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Good shooting, 3. Nice fireworks. Bet they heard that inside. Going channel 9.
Channel 9 Alpha Leader: Control, this is Alpha Leader. Mission accomplished.
Channel 9 Flight Control: Good work, Alpha Leader. Return to base.
23:42 HOURS
Computer, transfer flight log to personal log.
***
There was a little something waiting for me on my comm. link when I got back to quarters - a vid. from the captain. Her words -
" Ovambo tells me you're a pretty good shot. Excellent work, Lieutenant. Alpha Squad probably averted a major disaster. Alpha Squad has bragging rights. And you get my personal thanks, Lieutenant."
Gold star number 2.
Max
05 February 2264
I've been neglectful with my journal lately. It's not that I've been that busy. Duty has been pretty light - only routine patrols. It's just that Babylon 5 is full of so many distractions. I remember seeing a vid of a "movie" from the Twentieth Century when I was in college called Casablanca. An American expatriate had a nightclub in a neutral town on the NE coast of Africa during WWII. It was an exotic, romantic, and dangerous place. That vid has always stuck in my mind for some reason. This place reminds me of it - except with stellar species replacing the multi-national humans in Casablanca. But the political intrigue, the corruption, the daily struggle of so many souls all looking for something, or trying to escape something - it's like that vid.
I got a surprise note from my "uncle". Well, he's not really my uncle, but I always called him that when I was growing up. Here it is:
"Hi, Kid. Remember your 'Uncle' Garibaldi? Yeah, probably not, but your dad and I had some tough times in the trenches on Mars and I promised him I'd look after you. From what I can see, you've got the potential. Now, if you live up to it, I'll know--'cause I make it my business to know that sort of thing-- and maybe I can give you a little help. Pass along useful info now and then, give you the inside scoop when I can. But right now, I'm making a quick trip to a trade conference on Hyach. Sheridan asked me to keep an eye on things, and being head of Edgars Industries makes a good cover - if I don't die of boredom first. Catch you later."
And another from my Yolu buddy Gynai. It's funny - I don't really know much about Gynai's background, except that he travels a lot. But it seems like I've known him forever. We started talking one night in a civilian pub in Dome One, Mars - about flying mostly. And then after a few too many he started telling me stories about these incredible places he'd been to across the galaxy. But to him Earth is exotic, so he was just as interested in my stories. We've been buds for a couple of years now:
"Congratulations, my friend. When last we met, I told you I had read the signs of Coo-Tah for you and saw great things ahead. You laughed. "You and your omens, Gynai!" you said, "I'll make my own destiny." And now look, you're a Starfury pilot in the elite ranks of Babylon 5. I am truly pleased for you. As for me, my Coo-Tah is not so lofty. I have my own trading ship and will be as rootless as a zhayta-seed in the wind. That is good enough for me. I'll send word from time to time, from whatever corner of the galaxy I tumble into. Strength and peace be yours."
10 February 2264 23:25 HOURS
Just got back from a mission worth mentioning. It happened after I'd been on routine patrol in Sector 7 for about an hour. Following is a cleaned up cockpit mission log:
21:36 HOURS
Channel 9 Captain Lochley: Alpha 3, we have a situation brewing and I want you to check it out. There's a pair of Drazi fighters out near the jumpgate in the middle an altercation - some kind of blood feud or something. I'm hoping the sight of a Starfury will calm them down, because they're threatening to open fire on each other. Take up a holding position close by, but be ready for anything. Do NOT take any aggressive action that might be misunderstood. We want to resolve this peacefully. See what you can do.
Channel 9 Alpha 3: WILCO, Captain. McCoy out.
Oh, I never get tired of those hi-G flips. Really clears the sinuses. And it's Max-Thrust on the way!
21:50 HOURS
What the hell? You almost hit me you [delete].
Channel 9 Alpha 3: CIC, this is McCoy. They're firing at each other. They didn't give me a chance to say anything, and they don't seem to care -
Channel 9 Captain Lochley: I'm watching, Lieutenant. The Drazi said they're in some kind of a blood duel and refuse to answer our hails now. Break it up, McCoy. Just disable them if you can, but get this blasted hazard out of my space before they hurt someone beside themselves.
Channel 9 Captain Lochley: Alpha 7, this is Lochley.
Channel 9 Alpha 7: This is Alpha 7.
Channel 9 Captain Lochley: proceed to the jumpgate to give Alpha 3 a hand.
Channel 9 Alpha 7: WILCO, Captain. It'll take me about five minutes to get there.
UNICOM Alpha 3: Drazi fighters, this is EarthForce Lieutenant McCoy representing the Interstellar Alliance. Either stop what you are doing immediately or take your fight somewhere else.
Damn. No response. What the-? Now you've done it.
UNICOM Alpha 3: This is Lieutenant McCoy. You nearly hit the freighter with that last wild shot. This is your last warning. Cease your fight immediately. I am authorized to fire on you.
Crap. Okay. Here we go. Ug - there go the sinuses again. And up we go. 'Fraid not, pal. You aren't getting away from me. Let's see how you do without your main thruster.
Oh - think you're clever.
Come on - come on - you're acquired, buddy. Whew! Nice fireworks. He won't be going anywhere.
21:55 HOURS
UNICOM: Drazi Sky Snake Heavy Fighter Unknown Pilot: How dare you interfere? He was MY opponent! Now you must take his place!
What the [delete]. Son of a - that [delete] Drazi...
Whew! That was close. Ain't no way you're stayin - ug - on my - ug - six. Whoa. That made my eyes water.
Oh! What do you know. Suddenly I'm in front of you and facing you. How'd that happen, you ask?
Wait a minute! Get back here.
Fine. Run away. That works for - crap. That wasn't nice. Okay. End of patience. Let's try the dead-thruster trick on you.
Hey bud. Guess what - you're acquired. Bingo!
Alright! Two disabled, non-dead Drazi.
Glad I boned up on Sky Snake systems.
22:07 HOURS
Channel 7 Alpha 7: Hey, Max. I flew all the way over here. The least you could do is save some for me. Nice "diplomacy".
Channel 7 Alpha 3: Hey - I didn't blow anybody up. That's diplomacy - right?
Channel 9 Alpha 3: CandC this is Alpha 3. Situation under control.
Channel 9 CandC: We have recovery crews on their way to take over from here. Please report immediately for debriefing. You are relieved by Alpha 7. CandC out.
Channel 9 CandC: Alpha 7, assume Sector 7 patrol. Alpha 2 has Sector 10.
Channel 9 Alpha 7: Alpha 7 - WILCO - out.
Channel 7 Alpha 7: See you in Earhart's, McCoy.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: I'll be there.
Computer - transfer cockpit log to personal journal.
*****
After debriefing I got back to quarters to discover a nice little note from the captain on BABCOM:
"Well done, Lieutenant. You showed good sense and top-of-the-line skill out there. Don't expect any thanks from the Drazi. But they're lucky you didn't blow their sorry butts to pieces. I'm charging them with reckless endangerment. And I'm adding a high recommendation for promotion to your records. You've earned it."
My bot snagged an ISN story about the archeological dig on T'Llin 3. There's something about Alex.
ISN Anchor: There is word in from the archeological site near the mining town of Za-phar on T'Llin 3. Apparently a Narn ancestor race may have been present thousands of years ago. According to lead archeologist Alex Bauval-
Bauval: Preliminary results indicate the presence of a near relative of the Narn in ancient times. In lay terms the difference between this near-relative and modern Narn has a rough parallel in the difference between Neanderthal and Cro-Magnon in Humans.
ISN Anchor: This new information would seem to give credence to the claims of Narn religious leader D'Bok, who claims the site is Narn holy ground.
D'Bok: What more proof do you need? Our ancient traditions speak of a lost motherland and now there is scientific proof that our ancestors lived on T'Llin 3. These alien outsiders are poking and prodding around the bones of Narn that are the seed of our people. This is not right. The ruins near Za-phar are sacred. T'Llin 3 belongs in the hands of the Narn!
ISN Anchor: We caught up with Narn ambassador T'Lon who took a more cautious approach:
T'Lon: Things are not always as they first appear. I urge a cautious and civil approach. I have toured the site myself. The human archeologists and other specialists are sincere and capable. They are concerned that the site be treated with the greatest dignity and scientific objectivity. When we have all of the information we need to make a rational decision, then we can take whatever steps are necessary. Until then there is no need for inflammatory rhetoric.
ISN Anchor: ISN will continue to follow this story as it develops.
I'm off to meet the guys at Earhart's.
Max
03 March 2264 11:00 HOURS
Just got back from a briefing in the Ready Room. We've suffered a terrible loss. Most of us who aren't on duty were there - 12 pilots including Zingarelli (sitting in front of me), Lt. Johnson, my squad leader Lt. Cmdr Ovambo, and Lt. Cmdr Steinberg.
As we were sitting in our chairs talking while we waited for the captain to show, it was obvious that we all had an uncomfortable feeling that we were going to hear something that we didn't want to hear.
Finally Captain Lochley walked in with a grim look on her face that shut everyone up instantly. I'd never seen her look like this before. She took a moment to collect her thoughts and then spoke. Her voice was shaking.
"This morning at 09:00 I ordered Epsilon Squad to intercept a raider group that's been hitting freighters in Sector 15. Lt. Eric Lyndon and his entire squad were lost."
Everyone had something to say. The captain held up her hand and everyone shut up. She continued:
"This isn't the first time we've been hurt by raiders. But this is unprecedented… to lose an entire squadron - some of our best pilots… to them. It doesn't make any sense. And I will get answers. Until then, wherever we find raiders, we hit fast and we hit hard. They've stirred up the hornet's nest and they're going to know it."
The captain took a moment to look us over - judging our reaction, I guess. She seemed satisfied. We're ready for revenge. Then she dismissed us.
As soon as she left the room Zingarelli turned around and said that it doesn't make any sense. He said that Lyndon may have been a bastard, but he was good - really good. The whole squad was. So how could raiders flying ancient Narn delta wings take out the best of the best? What could I say? He's been around longer than me. So I said nothing.
Max
07 March 2264 14:30 HOURS
Just back from a briefing. Alpha Squad will be heading to the EA/ Minbari border territories on a classified mission to a planet called Eridani 3 - first time outside of B5 space for me, and first time navigating Hyperspace. Naturally I caught the expected ration of razzing about losing my virginity, Hyperspace warts, giant Hyperspace snakes…right.
The Captain said that she's been receiving intelligence reports from Rangers about an unknown ship seen in the area. No one's been able to get a good look at this thing, but there's a persistent rumor that it looks like a modified EA fighter. We planted a listening post there to try and gather some info on the ship, but it's just gone off-line, probably destroyed. The Captain said that there will be more information for us after we get underway. We launch at 15:00 HOURS.
According to the database, Eridani 3 is a small desert planet. Eridani 3 Colony was a Clark loyalist holdout until the end of the Civil War and has still not joined the Interstellar Alliance. Since the end of the ECW the whole planet has become a home to extremists of all types. Rangers have been watching the area due to a suspicion of Raider connections and possible anti-IA conspiracies.
A quick search on the EA/ Minbari border territories came up with a few things.
ISN MEDICAL NEWS: A NEW LIFE FOR LATIG 4?
"Personnel at the Biotech Research facility on Latig 4 near the border of Minbari and Earth Alliance space are reporting promising new finds in their study of Staffords Plague. Researchers are now saying that they may have found a way to render the virus that causes the disease inert. The planetary surface of Latig 4 is still uninhabitable 30 years after the Dilgar wiped out the planet's population with the plague. But if a way has been found to make the virus inert, the desert planet Latig 4 could once again support colonization. "
ISN NEWSBRIEF:"Velatastat 3, a planet in an unclaimed system between Earth Alliance and Minbari territories, has become the center of a dispute. Though the EA and the Minbari are still negotiating the right to exploit mineral resources in the Velatastat system, a mining company based on Mars has jumped the gun and built an exploratory facility on the surface of the planet… and this has not made the Minbari very happy.
According to the Interstellar Alliance, which is acting as a third party arbitrator, StellarForge Unlimited should have waited for a resolution to the matter before building their facility. But a StellarForge spokesperson claims that the IA was unnecessarily slowing the arbitration process. An IA spokesperson counters that StellarForge has been told repeatedly that the area is not secure and that this is what is holding up the process. Neither the IA nor the Minbari would elaborate on what they mean by "not secure." Nor were any answers forthcoming from the Earth Alliance. We will continue to pursue an answer to that question."
I'm headed for the Ready Room.
Max
08 March 2264 15:35 HOURS
Just got back to quarters from the mission to Eridani 3. I'm spent. Can't wait to shut my eyes and put this day behind me - that is, if I can shut my brain off. Lots of questions - questions I shouldn't be asking…
Following is the mission data that was waiting on my HUD when I strapped in and a partial transcript of my cockpit recorder. These transcripts are getting confusing, so whenever the cockpit recorder picks up my voice and I'm not on the radio, I've put those words in italics.
***
07 March 2264 15:03 HOURS
HUD:
DESTINATION: Eridani 3
SYSTEM: Eridani
WAYPOINTS: Epsilon Eridani to Eridani 3
OBJECTIVE: Find out what you can about an unknown, possibly fighter-class craft, observed by civilians and Rangers in the area. Eridani 3 colony was a Clark-loyalist holdout. The loss of the listening post could represent terrorist activities. There is an outside possibility that the Blackdog Prototype (classified Top Secret), which turned up missing during the Civil War, is the unknown. Use protocol Tango. Alpha Leader will explain.
ASSETS: Alpha Squad
RACE STATUS:
FRIENDLY:
HOSTILE:
NEUTRAL: Civilian ships
UNDETERMINED: Unidentified possibly fighter-class craft.
Blackdog Prototype. Hmmmm. Computer - retrieve all information on Blackdog Prototype.
Computer Response: Information regarding the Blackdog Prototype is classified beyond the clearance of Lieutenant McCoy.
Well then, what good are you?
Computer Response: I'm sorry. I don't -
Never mind. It was a rhetorical question.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader Lt. Cdr. Neni Ovambo: This is Alpha Leader, listen up. Protocol Tango means that if we encounter the Blackdog Prototype we are to disable -I repeat, disable- it. We will not destroy this craft. The EA is mighty interested in getting this sucker back. You'll recognize it because it's based on a Thunderbolt platform, but has been modified with classified high-tech armor and weapons - and that's all I can tell you about it. The pilot is thought to be a Clark holdout and is sought for questioning about war crimes and may face desertion charges. If we encounter anything else, follow my lead. All right. Let's head out. And stay close.
Okay. Follow the leader and don't ask any questions. Fine. I can do that.
07 March 2264 - Eridani 3 Normal Space - 15:31 HOURS
Whew. What a trip. But hey - no Hyperspace warts or -
UNICOM: Mayday, mayday, mayday. This is (static) Earth Queen IV. We are under (static) Repeat - under attack. Mayday, may (static…)
Computer Response: Warning. Identifying raider fighters.
Yeah - I can see that for myself. Crap. Looks like frigging war down there.
Hey - a lone Thunderbolt trying to -
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: This is Alpha Leader. That's the Blackdog prototype going up against the Raiders. Damn! Wouldn't you know it - nothin's ever easy. Okay - our first responsibility is to the civilians. We'll deal with Blackdog later. By the book - zone coverage! Heat 'em up - we're going in hot. Afterburner's on my mark! Go!
HUD:
DESTINATION:
SYSTEM: Eridani
WAYPOINTS:
OBJECTIVE: Defend unidentified civilian freighter. Alpha 1 has the bridge. Alpha 2 protect bow. Alpha 3,4 protect starboard and underside. Alpha 5,6 protect port and underside. Alpha 7 project stern.
ASSETS: Alpha Squad
RACE STATUS:
FRIENDLY:
HOSTILE: Raiders
NEUTRAL: Civilian ship
UNDETERMINED: Blackdog Prototype
Computer - arm weapons systems.
Computer Response: weapons systems on-line.
UNICOM Alpha Leader: This is Lt. Cdr. Neni Ovambo of Earthforce representing the Interstellar Alliance. Cease your attack or you will be fired on!
UNICOM Alpha Leader: Hostile forces, you are ordered to stand down at once.
You're going to piss Ovambo off. I'd answer if I were -
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Okay - that's it. Assume your positions and fire at will!
Here we go.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: Alpha 4, see you on channel 4.
Computer: two - Raider fighters - on attack vector.
Channel 7 Alpha 4: Roger. Switching to channel 4.
Computer: two - Raider fighters - locking on.
No you don't - uah - going up - uah - and here I am. Yo! Over here!
Computer: Raider weapons lock lost.
That's better.
Channel 4 Alpha 4: I'll take the underside.
Channel 4 Alpha 3: Rog' - let's show 'em how it's done.
Okay. Who's it going to be? You. You'll do. Come to daddy.
Computer: Entering firing range.
Oh - that was clever - but - uahrg - not - uarrgh - clever enough.
Computer: Target locked.
Bye, bye.
Computer: Target destroyed.
Computer: Two - Raider fighters - on attack vector.
Crap.
Channel 4 Alpha 4: Hey Max - why are you hogging two of them?
Channel 4 Alpha 3: Very funny. Feel free to jump in any time.
Channel 4 Alpha 4: Oh, alright. I've got the trailing bandit. (Static) What? Where the hell did you come from? I've been hit! Weapon systems inop - everything else seems okay. Guess - I'll - just draw fire for awhile while I give them flying lessons.
Crap, crap, double crap. Okay. I've had enough entertainment for now.
Channel 4 Alpha 3: There you go playing aerobatics and let me do all the work. Hang in. I'm coming down to enjoy the view.
Okay you guys. What happens if you're chasing a Starfury and suddenly - arrg - it stops dead - and spins around to face you?
Computer: target 1 acquired - target 1 destroyed - target 2 acquired - target 2 destroyed.
You die - that's what.
Channel 4 Alpha 4: I'm not having fun, Max. She's not handling right. Must be something else wrong. Can't shake these - (static) - I've been (static) again! (Static) Starboard high engine's going critical.
Channel 4 Alpha 3: Hang on. I'm closing on their six.
Computer: Entering firing range - target acquired - target missed - target acquired - target destroyed.
Channel 4 Alpha 3: I splashed one of them. The other is running for the gate.
Channel 4 Alpha 4: Thanks, bud. Look! The rest of them are on the run too. Hey, Max. You've got company - on your six.
Computer: Warning. Sensors indicating unidentified fighter-class - sensors jammed. Attempting counter measure. Counter measure failed.
Channel 4 Alpha 3: It's the prototype. It's coming alongside. Whoever it is just waved at me. It is a Thunderbolt - strangest one I've ever seen though. Unusual skin.
Channel 9 Alpha 3: This is Lieutenant McCoy of Earthforce representing the Interstellar Alliance. Do you copy?
Okay - let's try channel 7 -
Channel 7 Alpha 3: This is Lieutenant McCoy of Earthforce representing the Interstellar Alliance. Do you copy? Hey - I just want to thank you for your help.
Damn it. Where are you going?
Channel 7 Alpha 3: Alpha 1 this is 3 just made visual contact with Blackdog! When I tired to hail him he made a beeline for the gate.
Channel 7 Alpha 1: Alpha Squad - this is Alpha Leader - Heads up! Blackdog's making a run for it. Stay here with the civilians. Alpha 3, you're with me - let's go!
Oh boy. We're never going to catch that thing.
Channel 7 Unauthorized use: This is a warning to the Starfuries in pursuit. Stand down. You're way out-gunned. I'll eat you alive!
A female voice - wasn't expecting -
Channel 7 Alpha 1: I speak for the Interstellar Alliance. You are ordered to stand down immediately or suffer the consequences.
Channel 7 Unauthorized use: I was afraid you'd say that.
She's triggered the jump gate.
Channel 7 Alpha 1: Afterburners!
Come on! Come on! Crap - she's in! Come on, baby - faster!
Channel 7 Alpha 1: She's headed out. Follow me! Hurry!
Computer: Warning. Core overheating.
Crap. She's gone. We've lost her.
Channel 7 Alpha 1: Damnit! Standby to jump as soon as the gate recycles.
Computer: Core at normal range.
Eridani 3 Normal Space - 15:46 HOURS
Channel 7 Alpha 1: Okay - gate's back. Let's go!
Erindani 3 Beacon - Hyperspace - 14:47:50 Hours
Channel 7 Alpha 1: (Static) Alpha Leader. Nothing on radar (static). She's just gone. Let's get (static) to the freighter.
Erindani 3 Normal Space - 14: 53 Hours
Channel 7 Alpha 1: Alpha Squad - report.
Channel 7 Alpha 2: This is Alpha 2 - minimal damage - systems A-OK.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: This is Alpha 3 - no damage.
Channel 7 Alpha 4: This is Alpha 4 - weapons systems down - top, starboard engine pod damage - minimally operational.
Channel 7 Alpha 5: This is Alpha 5 - cockpit is breached - pressure suite doing it's job - otherwise ready to go.
Channel 7 Alpha 6: This is Alpha 6 - no damage.
UNICOM: Earthforce fighters. This is Earth Queen IV - come in, please.
UNICOM: This is Lt. Cdr. Neni Ovambo of Earthforce representing the Interstellar Alliance.
UNICOM: Hello, Earthforce. Thank you. Our weapons were no match for those bastard Raiders. We were at their mercy.
UNICOM: This is Lt. Cdr. Ovambo. That's what we're here for, Sir. The colony is sending out a patrol to escort you in. Good day.
Channel 7 Alpha 1: Alpha Squad - follow me. We're headed home. Leader out.
***
The rest of the trip was uneventful.
After debriefing Ovambo took me aside and said that she was aware of my actions when Bret took those hits.. She's putting something in my file and said that I'm looking like squad leader material. I told her it wasn't that big of a deal. She said that's true, but after the Civil War Earthforce is short on officers. She didn't smile. But I could tell that it was still a "Well done".
I asked her what's the deal with Blackdog. I wanted to know who the pilot was. But she said it's on a need to know basis, and she doesn't need to know - which means I don't need to know.
Max
28 March 2264
Things have been pretty quiet around Babylon 5, well, as quiet as they ever get around a place crammed with humans, around forty alien species, conflicting business concerns, and who knows how many nationalities and religions. But that’s internal security’s problem. In my world, things have been pretty quiet – that is, until Jillian decided to take R and R at B5 before heading back out to the Ju’Pai Sector.
We had dinner at the Fresh Air, took a walk on the Concourse after, and then spent some time hanging out in the Garden. The view of the core is – beyond words. This was only Jillian’s second trip to B5, so she was suitably impressed. But then she wanted some action. She’s like that. So I suggested this place in the Downbelow, Eight to the Bar, where a quartet plays 21st Century Jazz. She’s a Jazz fan like me, especially the early stuff, so the place was a big hit. We had a great time, and when the place closed I figured we’d end up at her cabin, since my quarters is restricted to civilians. And that’s probably how it would’ve gone, except for the two loudmouth, knucklehead Hurr who decided to harass Jillian on her way back from the head before we left.
Big mistake. She had no problem knocking one of them into the next century, but everything went downhill from there. We were holding our own against the two of them – no problem, but then a couple more Hurr showed up. It didn’t take long before they had us cornered, and it looked like we were going to end up in intensive care. Fortunately Zingarelli was in the neighborhood and between the three of us we managed to convince the lowlifes that we weren’t worth their trouble.
And so me and Jillian and Zinger ended up spending the rest of the wee hours in the Bazaar laughing it up and holding ice bags to our heads. Before I knew it, it was time for Jillian to take off. Crap.
Recent messages:
STELLARCOM: Alex Bauval
Hey, friend. Thought I’d give you an update. Casey and I are still working at the site on T’Llin 3. But this is becoming a dangerous place. D’Bok has a bunch of her activists making noise around the site and that’s making the Sh’Lassen troopers nervous. D’Bok herself showed up to make matters worse. I think she’s trying to incite a riot. Casey tried unsuccessfully to get a meeting with her. I think she was going to try to talk some sense into D’Bok. Can you believe that?
In case you didn’t see me on ISN, turns out there probably was an ancient Narn precursor race here at one time. But listen to this. We’ve just uncovered something very odd. The lowest depths of the site present highly advanced building materials and architecture. I think we’ve got evidence of an extremely ancient but also highly advanced civilization. It looks like whoever built this place lived here first, later the Narn ancestor race shows up, and then the original population abandons the site, leaving the ancient Narn to live on for another thousand years. Very intriguing. I’ll keep you posted. See you around.
End message.
And it looks like Jillian was right about investing in UT.
ISN: Financial news: Stock in Universal Terraform rose sharply upon UT’s announcement of a major new resource development enterprise being undertaken in the Ju’Pai Sector. The far-reaching project involves lifeform and resource surveys of several systems with Terraform potential, and is a joint venture in partnership with the Drazi and Abbai. The project is expected to take three years to complete before colonization can begin.
STELLARCOM: Yolu - Gynai
Hello, again. I hoped to visit you at B5, but I’m on the way to the Hyach sector to attend a trade conference. Lots of trouble with Raiders up there, but I’m going armed, so don’t worry about your friend Gynai. Besides, Raiders are less trouble to deal with than the Grome and Hurr. I go mainly for the sake of the Hyach. They are good allies and good people. I’ll let you know how I fare.
End message.
Ha! No kidding about the Hurr. I recall that uncle Garibaldi said something about going to some conference on Hyach, so I took a look and found the following:
ISN Business:
ISN Anchor: Today marked the opening of a trade conference on the Hyach homeworld of Shri-Shraba. The conference is open to the major trading partners in the Hyach sector: the Hyach, Pak’ma’ra, Brakiri, Grome and Hurr. Representatives of the Drazi and EA will also attend. As expected, two major issues have dominated the opening discussions. There is increasing dissatisfaction on the part of the Grome and Hurr that technological advances promised by the Interstellar Alliance have yet to materialize. The High Arbiter of the Hyach conference addressed this question on behalf of IA President, John Sheridan, who was unable to attend:
High Arbiter: Whatever President Sheridan’s reasons for exerting caution when sharing new technologies, they are surely justified, for there is nothing more dangerous than progress without control. Patience will be its own reward.
ISN Anchor: The day ended on a rancorous note over the more burning issue of the conference - the sharp rise in attacks by Raiders, especially along the Grome and Hurr trading routes.
Grome spokesperson: Why are only we attacked by the Raiders? Always they go after Grome and Hurr ships, and never attack the Brakiri! The Brakiri are in league with these Raiders! They use them to destroy our trade, so they will dominate the sector!
Brakiri spokesperson: The accusation is intolerable. We have no association with Raiders or pirates. If we find them in our shipping lanes, we will defend ourselves the same as anyone else.
ISN Anchor: The conference closed with no further results. The Hyach Arbiter has called for a short cooling down period before the talks resume.
***
Scuttlebutt is that there’s an away-from-station mission brewing. No details yet. So I’m going to snag a few extra hours of sleep while I can.
Max
01 April 2264 - 13:45 HOURS
Right when I was thinking that the rumors were wrong, I came back to my quarters to find the away-from-station mission briefing waiting on my terminal. The first of April was historically called "April Fools Day" in some places. I hope that's not an omen. The briefing:
Situational Briefing
Earthgov has recently extended its protection agreement with the Sh'Lassen Triumvirate to include a mineral survey of their new planet T'Llin 3. It is believed that Q40 can be found there. Quantum 40 is rare as you know, so this agreement is an important one.
But there's a problem. A radical Narn religious leader known as D'Bok is protesting an Earth-sponsored archeological dig on T'Llin 3, near the Sh'Lassen mining colony, Za-phar. D'Bok says that the archeologists are defacing ancient Narn holy ground. Whether or not any Narn were ever on T'Llin 3 remains to be seen. Nevertheless, D'Bok has a large following on Narn and her protests are creating tension between the EA, Narn and the Sh'Lassen Triumvirate. In order to avoid any unnecessary problems, Alpha Squad will escort the diplomatic shuttle Madrid, carrying the EA ambassador to the Triumvirate, from the station to T'Llin 3.
That's it. Specific mission information will be downloaded to your ships. Departure at 14:00 hours. - Lochley
Database Entry - Sh'Lassen Triumvirate:
An alliance of the systems Sh'Lassen, Nacambad and Zafras is known as the Sh'Lassen Triumvirate. In 2259, Earth took part in defeating rebels attempting to overthrow the Sh'Lassen Triumvirate. The Sh'Lassen people are relatively new to interstellar travel and do not have a military presence in space to match even the weakest of the former Non Aligned worlds. They are protected by the EA in return for the right to co-develop the rich mineral resources in these systems.
Four years ago the Sh'Lassen Triumvirate claimed the mineral-rich T'Llin 3 and built the small colony of Za-Phar on the surface next to ancient ruins of undetermined origin.
T'Llin 3 is a desert planet, and Za-Phar is dependent upon water shipments from the home system. To facilitate water transfers and shipments of minerals being shipped out of T'Llin 3, the Sh'Lassen government has installed a transfer station in orbit around the planet. It is known as the T'Llin 3 Transfer Station. We have recently extended our protection agreement to cover T'Llin 3, where we believe Q40 may be found.
According to the star map T'Llin 3 is three jumps away. That means refueling along the way. This should be an interesting -and long- trip. Glad I've been putting in extra sack time. This time it looks like Alex and Casey really ended up in the middle of things. Alex can take care of himself, but still...
Departure in a few minutes. I'm out of here.
Max
03 April 2264
This is the first time I've had the chance to update my journal since getting back from what turned out to be anything but a standard escort mission. The main details are covered by the edited transcript of my cockpit log.
***
Epsilon Eridani Normal Space - 01 April 2264 14:03 HOURS
Computer: Receiving mission download.
HUD:
DESTINATION: Akdor in the Sh'Lassen system
SYSTEM: Sh'Lassen
WAYPOINTS: Eridani to Mentab to Sh'Lassen.
OBJECTIVE: Escort diplomatic shuttle Madrid to planet Akdor in the Sh'Lassen system where you will rendezvous with EAS Artemis for life-support re-charges. Thence continue to T'Llin 3.
ASSETS: Alpha Squad
RACE STATUS:
FRIENDLY:
HOSTILE:
NEUTRAL: Civilian ships
UNDETERMINED:
14:05 HOURS
Channel 7 Alpha Leader Lt. Cdr. Neni Ovambo: This is Alpha Leader, listen up. The shuttle will fall in behind me. The rest of you will fall in behind the shuttle. Form up. Traffic at the gate is holding for us. We have a long trip ahead of us. Stay on your toes. Leader Out.
14:11 HOURS
Channel 9 CandC Lochley: Alpha Squad, this is Lochley. Abort - abort. Standby on this side of the gate for new orders. Shuttle Madrid return to base. Will explain on your return. Lochley out.
Channel 9 Shuttle Madrid: This is diplomatic shuttle Madrid. WILCO. Out.
Channel 9 Alpha Leader: This is Alpha Leader. Standing by.
I have a bad feeling about this.
Channel 7 Alpha 5: Never a dull moment.
Channel 7 Alpha 2: Yeah - and I was so excited about escort duty.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Alright. Cut the chatter. Heads up - orders coming in.
14:15 HOURS
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Alpha Squad, our new destination is Beta 3 II. We'll get our briefing underway. Follow me! Hit it!!
Hyperspace near Epsilon Eridani Beacon - en route Beta 3 II - 14:13 HOURS
Computer: Receiving mission download.
HUD:
DESTINATION: Beta 3 II
SYSTEM: Beta 3
WAYPOINTS:
OBJECTIVE: Escort civilian ships through jumpgate to safety
ASSETS: Alpha Squadron
RACE STATUS:
FRIENDLY: Drazi
HOSTILE:
NEUTRAL: UT Magellan, survey ships
UNDETERMINED: Centauri
Undetermined - Centauri? That got my attention.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: I've just gotten a more detailed briefing from CandC. Here's the story. Universal Terraform has a large freighter, the Magellan, caught in political crossfire at Beta 3 II along with two Skydancer survey ships and a Drazi survey ship. The Centauri say the Drazi pilot is a spy and has ordered him turned over for questioning. The Drazi refuse and have sent fighters. The Centauri have responded by sending their own fighters, so now all hell's threatening to break loose between the Centauri and the Drazi. Our job is to get all the civilian ships safely through the gate and on their way to safety. Alpha Leader out.
02 April 2264 - Hyperspace near Beta 3 II Beacon - 01:13 HOURS
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Okay. Listen up. It's been a long trip. Get your edge back - we're going in hot, just in case. But remember, the Alliance has a defensive posture here. Our job is to get the civilian ships out of this area in one piece. We'll stay formed up near the gate and I'll call for the civilian ships to come to us. We'll leave with them and provide a shield. If fighting breaks out between the Drazi and Centauri fighters - it's their fight. Defend yourselves any way you have to, but use some discretion. If the Centauri attack civilian ships, they're fair game. Stand by. Opening the gate - now!
Beta 3 II Normal Space - 01:13:32 HOURS
Computer: Detecting Centauri Sentri - dectecting Drazi Sky Serpent fighter class ships.Crap. Doesn't look good.
UNICOM unidentified Drazi Sky Serpent: (static)…unfounded. These are civilian pilots on a civilian survey mission - nothing -
UNICOM unidentified Centauri Sentri: Enough of your lies. We have orders to detain the Drazi spy. Try to interfere and you will pay the price.
UNICOM Alpha Leader: This is Leader Lt. Cdr. Neni Ovambo representing the Interstellar Alliance. We have orders to escort the civilians out of this area. Stand down immediately or you will wish today had never come.
UNICOM unidentified Centauri Sentri: You are intruding on Centauri space! Leave at once! The responsibility for hostilities is in your hands. We will take the Drazi spy and leave the civilians.
Computer: WARNING. Detecting Centauri fighter class weapons powering up.
Computer: WARNING. Detecting Drazi fighter class weapons powering up.
UNICOM Alpha Leader: That's not going to happen. The Alliance is set up to arbitrate on these matters. There's no need for (static burst) -
Computer: WARNING. Detected high energy weapons burst.
Computer: WARNING. Detecting Drazi class fighter targeting array bursts.
What the-? He fired on Ovambo! Alright, that's it. I'm -
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Alpha Squad! Take no action! I'm fine. Stand by.
UNICOM Alpha Leader: TO BOTH SIDES! This is Lt. Cdr. Neni Ovambo. STAND DOWN! No harm done. Just cool down! Who ever the hotshot is who just fired at me - your warning shot hasn't changed anything. The Centauri are not making any friends here. I strongly suggest that you re-think your position.
UNICOM unidentified Drazi Sky Serpent: As you wish! But the Drazi stand with the Alliance. We will not tolerate Centauri insurrection!
UNICOM unidentified Centauri Sentri: This is Imperial territory. Your order is an insult. You are ordered to leave Centauri space immediately - now!
UNICOM Alpha Leader: Fine. We will escort all of the civilians out of here. To the Magellan and the survey ships - all possible speed to the jumpgate.
Crap! The Centauri are splitting up - there go the Drazi - I feel a hairball coming on.
Computer: WARNING Drazi fighter class weapons powering up.
Computer: WARNING Centauri fighter class weapons powering up.
Computer: WARNING Detecting multiple targeting array bursts.
UNICOM Freighter MAGELLAN: To the Alliance ships - this is Captain Trujillo speaking. We're underway to the jumpgate as fast as we can go. UT gave us reinforced hulls, but that doesn't do those survey ships much good unless we can get them back inside. Give them cover so they can dock!
Computer: WARNING detecting multiple energy pulses - probable weapons fire.
UNICOM Alpha Leader: Roger that, Captain.
Channel Seven Alpha Leader: Alpha Squad - while the Drazi and Centauri are taking shots at each other let's get the survey ships back to the Magellant. We'll worry about getting the freighter out of here once everyone's onboard.
The Centauri are firing on the Drazi survey -
UNICOM unidentified Drazi survey ship: (static) Drazi survey ship! I'm hit! I'm hit! I need cover!
UNICOM Alpha Leader: This is Lt. Cdr. Ovambo of the Earth Alliance. We are authorized to use deadly force. Stand down!
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Alpha Squad you are authorized - I repeat - you are authorized to use deadly force. But stay out of the fight. Our priority is to the civilians. Cover them until they get docked. Alpha 3, you're with me - we're on the Drazi survey ship - let's go!
Channel 7 Alpha 3 Lieutenant McCoy: My pleasure.
Computer: WARNING engine at full emergency power.
Computer: target Drazi survey ship acquired. Detecting 2 Sentri and 1 Sky Serpent on intercept vector.
There you are.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: Leader, I've got two Sentri and a -
UNICOM Alpha Leader: Whoever is piloting the two Sentri approaching the Drazi Survey ship - back off - I will use deadly force.
Computer: WARNING detecting Centauri targeting array burst.
Computer: WARNING detecting Drazi targeting array burst.
UNICOM unidentified Drazi Sky Serpent: Humans - we welcome our earth friends to the fi-(static burst) (unintelligible) (static) -
Computer: WARNING detecting debris field ahead. Probable Drazi fighter class.
UNICOM Alpha 3: Survey ship, this is Lieutenant McCoy of the Earth Alliance. Can you make it to the freighter?
UNICOM unidentified Drazi survey ship: (unintelligible) I - I think so. Heavy damage. The Centauri destroyed one of our fighters! Help me.
UNICOM Alpha Leader: Get to the freighter. We'll cover you.
Computer: WARNING Sentri class trageting burst.
Computer: WARNING Sentri class locked on.
No - you - don't!
Computer: weapons lock lost.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: This is Alpha 3. One of the Sentri's just tried to nail me.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Son of a - okay. That's it. Alpha 3 take the three o'clock Sentri - I'll take the six o'clock.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: Understood.
Computer: Sentri acquired.
Computer: Sentri lock lost.
Come back here. Wait. Where are you -urrrrg- going? (Unintelligible - breathing). What the?
Computer: WARNING Sentri weapons lock. WARNING weapons powering up.
No -aaa (unintelligible - breathing) you - urrrg - don't.
Computer: Sentri weapons lock lost.
(Static burst)
Computer: WARNING pulse near miss - systems nominal - initiating redundant systems.
Missed, you son of a -
Computer: WARNING Sentri weapons lock.
Crap! (unintelligible - breathing)
Computer: WARNING weapons fire immanent.
(Unintelligible - breathing)
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: I'm on my way, Max. Hold on. Remember the simulator.
Computer: WARNING core overheating.
(Unintelligible - breathing)
Computer: Sentri weapons lock lost.
(Unintelligible - breathing) You're - good - but not - good enough. Let's see if you can follow this. (Unintelligible - breathing) aaaaaarrrrrrgggg -
Computer: target locked.
Got you!
Computer: target destroyed.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Nice maneuver, Max. The Drazi survey ship is docking with the freighter now. It looks like the rest of the Centauri are beating it back to base. Form up at the freighter.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: (unintelligible - breathing) Okay - I mean, WILCO - Out.
***
Fortunately the Centauri didn't come back. I hope that's the last time I have to take on one of their fighter pilots. They're good. If it hadn't been for that little elevator flip trick - but given the way the Centauri are acting lately, that may be wishful thinking. Right about now Earth duty is looking pretty good - a good dark beer next to a mountain lake -
Who am I kidding? I'd be bored in three days.
At least we got a good debriefing. In the Captain's own words:
"Allow me to congratulate you on a job well done. The Magellan and all her survey ships made it safely to their intended designation. The Centauri and Drazi are still screaming bloody murder at one another, but that's not our problem. Consider yourself commended. You did good out there."
Max
29 May 2264
I don't know where to start. I've been stewing over this for more than a week now. Each time I try to write about it I end up deleting the whole thing. The journals of all officers are encrypted. No one will read this for years, unless my luck runs out before I retire, or unless there's an inquiry. But I need to get this out of me now, and maybe someday, when it's no longer buried in some highly classified database, and if it's not destroyed in a cover-up attempt, my children will be able to read my journal and wonder at the things I've seen - the way I wonder now - about what happened to me in Sector 14.
Sector 14 was the location of the previous Babylon station, Babylon 4, which disappeared due to the effects of a highly classified temporal-spatial anomaly in that area. A warning beacon has been posted to warn traffic that the area is considered unstable, and has thus been declared off-limits to non-military ships. Normally Sector 14 is three hours travel time from the station via normal space, but recently the old jumpgate used to construct Babylon 4 has been reactivated in order to simplify keeping tabs on the anomaly, which has been periodically acting up since Babylon 4 briefly re-appeared several years ago.
There's still aren't many people that know about the re-appearance of Station 4, and if it weren't for Uncle Garibaldi I wouldn't know either. But after relating the experience I'm about to commit to record here, and after letting him hear my cockpit record, Michael decided to help me fill in some blanks. But there are still many, many questions left to answer.
As it stands now, he and I and one other person know about this, and I've been told to keep it that way.
After nearly a month of relative quiet around here, Alpha Squad was scrambled for a rescue mission to Sector 14. My cleaned-up cockpit transcript (minus irrelevant chatter) follows.
***
Babylon Station 19 May 2264 16:36 HOURS
HUD:
DESTINATION: Sector 14
SYSTEM: Epsilon Eridani
WAYPOINTS: Station Jumpgate to Old Station Jumpgate
OBJECTIVE: Rescue freighter and eliminate Raiders
ASSETS: Alpha Squadron
RACE STATUS:
FRIENDLY:
HOSTILE: Raiders
NEUTRAL: Freighter
UNDETERMINED:
Channel 7 Alpha Leader Lt. Cdr. Neni Ovambo: Alright, boys'n'girls. Form up. Raiders are hitting a freighter that ignored the warning beacon and took a shortcut through Sector 14. We've got an extra wrinkle or two. The anomaly has been acting up lately. It's hard to predict. We will use extreme caution if drawn anywhere near the unstable area. One more thing - tachyon fluctuations throughout Sector 14 interfere with long range scanners - so keep your eyes open. Follow my lead. Let's go!
Hyperspace at Old Station Gate 16:51 HOURS
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: (static) heat them up (static) going in hot. Standby for gate activation (static) Go!
Sector 14 16:52 HOURS
Computer: WARNING: unknown energy source. Scanners at 50% and dropping.
Computer: WARNING: detecting probable raider fighter class ships.
What a sight - a swarm of raiders buzzing around a burning freighter drifting towards a swirling distortion field. The fun never ends.
UNICOM Human Freighter Solar Wind III: (static)day, Mayday, Mayday. This is the Solar Wind (static). We are under (static) by rai(static).
UNICOM Alpha Leader: Solar Wind, this is (static) Leader. Hang on.
UNICOMSolar Wind III: Earth fighters! I see you! Hurry!
UNICOM Unidentified transmission: (static) break off! We've got company. Break (static)
UNICOM unidentified transmission: Coward! This prize is ready for our taking. There are many more of us. (static) together!
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Alpha 3 - take the stern. Alpha 2 - take the bow - and keep an eye on the anomaly. You're the closest. Alpha 4 and 5 - take port. 6 and 7 - starboard. Per the Captain's orders - you are authorized (static) lethal force. I repeat - take them out!
Computer: WARNING engines at maximum thrust.
Okay. Who's first?
(Static burst)
Computer: WARNING blast near miss - systems nominal.
Computer: All systems at normal levels.
I guess that answers my question. You first. Hey - come back here.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Alpha 3. Watch yourself. He's leading you toward the anomaly.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: Roger that.
Computer: target locked.
Bye, bye.
Computer: target destroyed.
Computer: WARNING unsafe level - tachyon -
(Static burst)
What the hell?
Computer: WARNING, WARNING - detecting high energy flux - WARNING - all sensors inoperative - WARNING - core overload imminent - WARNING multiple systems failure - WARN-
Channel 7 Alpha 3: Alpha Leader, this is Alpha 3. I think I've been hit with a blast from the anomaly. All systems but emergency backup are down. I - I can't see anything outside the cockpit but - lights. Do you read, over?
Come on, come on. Answer.
(Static burst)
Computer: all systems normal.
Whew! That was weird. Where the hell am I?
Computer! Establish link with beacon.
Computer: re-establishing navigation link. Stand by.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: Alpha Leader, this is Alpha 3. I must be on the other side of the anomaly. I see clear space now, but I don't see the freighter or the rest of the squad. Must have been kicked out of the area. Do you copy, over?
Computer: navigation link establish. Present location Earth Lunar Beacon, Sol system.
Try again. That's wrong.
Computer: rechecking navigation link. Navigation link Earth Lunar Beacon, Sol system.
Must be fried. I'll just spin around here and take a look for - what the hell? Holy crap! That's Earth - under attack - by Minbari! It can't be.
Whoa! That was close. The squad nearly nailed me.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: Alpha Leader! This is McCoy - what the hell's going on? How did we get here. What are my orders?
Channel 7 Alpha Leader Sinclair: Unidentified Starfury. This is Alpha leader Sinclair. Identify yourself.
Sinclair? What the - ? It looks like (unintelligible breathing) Come on, Max - get a hold of yourself.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: This is Fleet Lieutenant Robert McCoy - what - what are my orders?
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: This is Sinclair - don't know what you're doing here, but I'll take the help. Fall into formation. We can't let anyone through - no matter what. That's it. Those are your orders. Good luck, Lieutenant.
(Unintelligible breathing).
Computer: WARNING detecting - multiple - Minbari Nial Heavy Fighter targeting bursts - deploying countermeasures - WARNING - detecting multiple Minbari Sharlin-Class War Cruiser targeting bursts - deploying countermeasures -
Channel 7 Alpha 7: Alpha-7 to Alpha leader, I'm hit!
Damn! They hit one of the squad. Why aren't they using countermeasures? What's going on?
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Pull out, pull out!
Come on - come on - you can do it.
Computer: WARNING Minbari Sharlin-Class weapons fire eminent.
(Static burst)
Crap! That almost got him.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Alpha-7!
(Unintelligible breathing) They splashed him. Why are the Minbari - ? I must be going mad. This looks like - it looks like the Battle of the Line!
Channel 7 Mitchell: He's gone. Picking up enemy transmissions.
Channel 7 McCoy: This is McCoy - why aren't you using the new countermeasures? They shouldn't be able to target us like this.
Channel 7 Sinclair: I don't know what you're talking about. Stay in formation. Hold the line; no one gets through, no matter what.
Channel 7 McCoy: Understood.
Channel 7 Mitchell: Understood.
Damnit!
Channel 7 McCoy: Alpha Leader - on your -
Channel 7 Mitchell: Alpha leader, you have a Minbari on your tail!
Channel 7 Mitchell: I'm on him. Targeting fighter.
Channel 7 Sinclair: No! Mitchell, stay in formation.
Computer: WARNING Minbari Sharlin-class weapons fire imminent.
Whoa. Where is it? There! In the sun! Two of them! The squad's not reacting. Aren't their computers warning them?
Channel 7 McCoy: This is McCoy. Look at your four. Two Sharlin - in the sun!
Channel 7 Sinclair: What? Oh my god. It's a trap! Mitchell!
Channel 7 Mitchell: I got a clear shot, I can take him, I can take him!
Break off Mitchell - can't you see the cruisers, you idiot!
Channel 7 McCoy: Mitchell! You being drawn right into the cruisers!
(Static burst)
Channel 7 Sinclair: Mitchell!!!
(Unintelligible breathing)
Computer: WARNING - near miss. Systems unstable. Activating redundant systems.
Channel 7 Mitchell: I'm hit! Ejecting!
(Static burst)
Bastards! You had him. You didn't have to blast his escape pod! Okay - you're mine, you son of a bitch. (Unintelligible breathing).
Computer: target locked.
Computer: target lost.
(Unintelligible breathing)
Computer: target locked.
(Static burst - Noise: cockpit stress)
Computer: WARNING - near miss - target lost. Detecting multiple targeting bursts. Counter measures holding.
(Unintelligible breathing)
Computer: target locked.
Eat plasma, you sorry piece of -
Computer: target destroyed.
Crap! Sinclair's Fury!
Channel 7 Sinclair: Aft stabilizers hit. Weapons systems at zero. Defensive grid at zero. Power plant near critical mass. Minbari weapons systems locking on.
His radio must be locked on.
Channel 7 McCoy: This is McCoy. If you can hear me - hold on. I'm on my way.
What - what's he doing?
Channel 7 Sinclair: Not like this, not like this! If I'm going out I'm taking you bastards with me! Target main cruiser, set for full velocity ram, afterburners on my mark. Mark!
No!
Computer: WARNING - detecting unstable energy flux. WARNING - detaching high tachyon levels. WARNING systems unstable. WARNING - all sensors inoperative - WARNING multiple systems fail - WARNING, WARNING - core overload imminent -
(Static burst)
What's going on? I can't see anything.
(Static Burst)
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: This is Ovambo. Good work. That's the last of them. Standby.
Computer: all systems normal. Reestablishing beacon. Present location Sector 14.
What? It's my squad - and the freighter - and not a raider in sight. Computer - check tachyon levels.
Computer: tachyon levels slightly above normal.
The anomaly seems to have stabilized.
UNICOM Alpha Leader: Solar Wind, this is Lt. Cdr. Ovambo of Earth Force. All raiders are destroyed. Are you able to leave the area under your own power?
UNICOM Solar Wind III: This is Solar Wind. Thank you, Earth Force. Thank God you arrived when you did. Yes - yes. We will head for the Babylon station for repairs.
UNICOM Alpha Leader: this is Ovambo. Roger that, captain. I'll let them know you're on your way. Ovambo out.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: This is Ovambo. Form up - we're headed home.
Channel 7 Alpha 3: This is McCoy - did anyone notice anything strange - with the anomaly?
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: slightly elevated tachyon emissions - that's all. Why?
Channel 7 Alpha 3: Oh. I was hit by a pretty intense blast - that's all.
Channel 7 Alpha 5: I noticed a flash on the opposite side of the anomaly after you chased that raider back there.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: How are your systems, Max? You up and running?
Channel 7 Alpha 3: No problem. Yeah - everything's fine.
Channel 7 Alpha Leader: Good. Standby for gate activation.
***
When we got back to the station I expected Ovambo to say something about being absent for most of the battle, but she didn't. I didn't want to say anything because - well, I didn't think that anyone would believe me - and I wasn't going to open myself up for courtesy pass to the padded room. So I didn't say anything - hoping that it would all just go away. But it didn't. That was before I discovered what was captured by my cockpit recorder. When I found out, I had to talk to someone, that's why I let Michael listen to the recording. He told me to keep it to myself - he'd explain later.
And then there was the visitor waiting in my quarters.
I had just plopped into a chair in front of my data terminal to try and write some of the experience down when I heard a strange sound, whipped around, looked behind me, and discovered an old, strangely dressed Minbari standing in my room. I was about to jump for my PPG when he started talking to me, and I realized that I was looking at a very convincing hologram. I had the presence of mind (thank God) to hit the "record" button on my keyboard. This is what I got:
"Don't be alarmed. I'm a friend. My name is Draal, caretaker of the Great Machine, which lies in the heart of Epsilon Eridani. What I'm about to tell you is a closely guarded secret and difficult to understand. But we have gone down a path that we can not turn from. And you must understand what is at stake.
"I'm sure you have heard the stories about the mysterious disappearance of Babylon 4. For the better and for the worse, I am the one who made it possible. For reasons that I can not disclose, it was necessary to open a time-space rift, using the power of the Great Machine, in order to send Babylon 4 back in time, where it served an important service for us all. We deflected a catastrophic tide of events, but in the process of doing so the fabric of time and space has been weakened in Sector 14. And now something, or someone unknown even to me, has destabilized the rift even further. Even worse, because you were drawn into the past, the present is transformed. There can be no change in the past without an equal change to the present. Even a new presence in the past is a change. Do you understand? We can only hope that it won't be too drastic.
"But something good may come from this mishap. Like my friend, Ivanova, you have latent telepath abilities. This makes it possible for you to return from the past with a clear memory of what happened there. You will also see how our present has changed. Nearly everyone else will be unaware - even most telepaths. You alone have become a nexus to the past.
"So - you are now my valuable ally in attempts to keep this little problem from getting out of hand. I'm attempting to re-stabilize the anomaly using the vast power of the Great Machine. With your help, Nexus, we may be able to close the anomaly forever. Without your help…anything could happen. Unfortunately, I have no idea what may be required of you. We must wait and see. But if you are the soul I think you are, you will know when it is time to take action.
"I suggest that you study the historical record. It's best to be prepared for whatever you might face. You'll hear from me whenever your actions in the past create significant changes in the present. If we are very lucky, you'll return -- as you did this time -- to a universe similar to the one you left. If we are not lucky - let's not contemplate that.
"I wish you good luck, Nexus, until we speak again."
That's it. The hologram dissipated and I'm left wondering what the hell this all means. And I can't talk about it. So that's why I'm writing it all down here. Maybe someday someone will read this and be able to make sense of it.
Max
10 June 2264 13:45 HOURS
They say that nothing stays the same except change. I should have known that as soon as I got nice and comfortable living and working at Babylon Station that it'd be time for a transfer. Of course I know that as an EA officer I can be transferred at any time, especially during the shortage of combat qualified flight officers. But it's been easy to get accustomed to doing my regular shifts, the few scrambles here and there, and spending the rest of the time enjoying an exotic life aboard what amounts to a small intergalactic city.
Not that I especially mind a transfer to a ship that will take me into places that few humans have been - especially a transfer due to a promotion.
I'm sitting here, head reeling still, typing my final journal entry aboard the station. In just a few minutes I'll be taking a shuttle over to the Hyperion-class warship Artemis. I'll be taking this journal with me, of course, and continuing it from my new, cramped, zero-G quarters. That should be fun. I've never tried typing in zero-G before.
This morning I got up to find my regular ISN updates, messages from friends plus a message from the captain waiting on the data terminal. The message from the captain tersely said that I was being promoted, transferred, and that I was supposed to show up in the Sanctuary room at 13:00 hours - a bolt out of the blue.
It was a brief ceremony. Things are heating up in the Alliance territories and the captain is extremely busy. As a matter of fact I was surprised that she took the time to officiate at what is really a pretty minor promotion.
Captain Lochley stood across the wide floor of the Sanctuary Room facing me as I walked in. In back of her were the senior combat pilots, including Zingarelli, in dress uniforms. Zinger was promoted to Zeta Leader here two weeks ago. Behind the pilots is the big view port, through which I could see the normal traffic and the Hyperion Artemis.
The captain ordered me to come forward, which I did and stood before her at attention. I managed to commandeer a transcript from the proceedings so that I could get the captain's exact words. She said,
"Captain Trauger is waiting for you aboard the Artemis, so I'll keep this brief. It isn't often I have the pleasure of watching one of our pilots rise through the ranks so quickly, but this is one of those times. You've excelled in your service to Babylon 5 and I'm sorry to let you go. But we need solid leaders in the field and I believe you'll do well with your new responsibilities as a squad leader."
She stepped forward and attached the Lt. Commander insignia on my epaulet, and then stepped back and said,
"Congratulations, Lt. Commander, and good luck."
The captain and the senior pilots snapped a salute, and it was all over. The captain dismissed us and then hustled off in a hurry. Zingarelli and the others came over to congratulate me. I would have bought them a round, but no time for that now. Fortunately I'll be coming back this way for R and R.
Below are the last few messages and news items to come in before my transfer. New messages are already being sent to my quarters aboard the Artemis.
STELLARCOM: Gynai
Yes, it's Gynai. If you haven't heard from me in a while, consider it a blessing since I've had nothing good to say. I am still at this trade conference on Hyach. The rampant paranoia of the Grome and Hurr has ground everything to a halt. This would be a good place to work things out in a Mutai. A few rounds of ritual battle might help tempers on all sides. I know thumping a few hard Grome heads would improve my temper. (laughs) Speaking of battle, I have news about the Raiders operating up here. They have a new, dangerous, and cunning leader by the name of Wolfkrieg. Survivors say his ship has strange technology. They say it as a symbol on it that sounds to me like the animal you call "wolf". The Grome and Hurr claim he must be Brakiri, of course, but "Wolfkrieg" sounds much like a human word to me, and of course the Grome and Hurr wouldn't know about non-human Earth species like the wolf. I thought I should warn you, in case you find yourself in battle against him. If that comes to pass, be very careful, my friend.
I've set up my ISN profile to check for news from areas where friends are. Something came in about the trade conference.
ISN: Hostilities at Hyach Trade Conference
The Hyach Trade Conference, which resumed under a cloud of dissention, is already mired with further accusations by the Grome and Hurr that the Brakiri are secretly allied with the Raiders harassing shipping lanes in this sector. The Brakiri continue to flatly deny any association with Raiders, but remain unable to explain why Raiders have not been attacking Brakiri ships. Progress on resolving issues of a "trade war" and sharing of advanced technologies has ground to a stop in the face of demands by the Grome-Hurr coalition that the Interstellar Alliance immediately provide the improved ships needed to fight the Raiders. President Sheridan was unavailable for comment.
STELLARCOM: Alex
Me again. Don't know where you are, so hope this gets through the military channels; the situation here is rapidly getting worse. Casey is off arguing with the local Sh'Lassen governor, who has just now closed down the dig. Which doesn't make sense, and I'll tell you why. I've been studying what we've found so far. It looks like the Narn ancestor race may have been a slave population abducted from Narn and brought here. End of D'Bok's claim to T'Llin 3 - see what I mean? But I'd need more time at the dig to prove it. You'd think the Sh'Lassen government would want that information out there. So why shut us down? They won't even talk to me now. It doesn't make any sense - unless - there's pressure from outside. Unless there's another issue I haven't discovered yet. But I'll find it!
I spoke with a Narn official today - an ambassador named Ta'Lon. Finally - someone who understands - especially after I showed him a few examples of the ancient language we found. He's quite knowledgeable about ancient Narn myths. I wanted to pick his brain, but he had to hurry off before I got the chance.
Anyway…that's all for now. Hope your world makes more sense than mine.
ISN SPECIAL UPDATE: T'LLIN 3
The three-way struggle over a small planet called T'Llin 3 in a relatively obscure system is heating up. Earth Alliance has secured the right to do a mineral survey of this planet in return for protection of the Sh'Lassen Triumvirate, which claims the T'Llin system. At stake is a possible new source of Quantium 40, the element necessary for jumpgate technology. Also interested in the planet are a team of human archeologists uncovering ancient ruins on the outskirts of Za-phar, a new T'Llin 3 mining colony. But opposed to exploiting the planet for minerals, and to the archeological dig, are the charismatic Narn zealot D'Bok and her followers.
D'Bok contends that both those who would exploit the planet's resources and the archeologists responsible for the dig are defacing Narn holy ground, and that this will not be tolerated. Preliminary archeological studies do indicate the presence of a Narn ancestor race.
D'Bok's new threat is being taken seriously. Late word is that radical factions of the Narn Fifth-Circle military are starting to side with her. The newly re-formed Narn government seems disorganized and unable to deal with this kind of social uprising. Although Earth Alliance is maintaining a low profile, insiders who choose to remain anonymous say that the protection treaty with the Sh'Lassen Triumvirate will be honored.
STELLARCOM: Jillian
I guess I missed seeing you in action at Beta 3, though I don't think I would've liked it very much at the time. Listen, we've been through a lot, so I know I can trust you with this. This is all absolutely confidential so you can't breathe a word to anyone or my ass is grounded without pay. I made a pass over a planet in the Silth system. An earlier probe showed a Terran world in very early stages of life development. Now there's nothing. Maybe it developed something like a Markab plague, but it killed everything, right down to microbes. UT's not happy about my report, but that planet's under quarantine for the next hundred years or so. Anyway, they're rescheduling me, so no telling where I'll be next. Gotta run. Keep your jets hot.
ISN: Drazi Freehold Still Seeking Settlement with Centauri Republic
After numerous delays, there is still no legal settlement of the charges filed by the Drazi Freehold against the Centauri Republic in the wake of an attack on Drazi civilians. The Drazi were taking part in a planetary survey project, in partnership with Universal Terraform. The attack took place at Beta 3, where a UT research ship was being supplied by the Centauri colony. The Centauri claim one of the Drazi pilots was not what he appeared to be, but was in fact spying for the Drazi government. The Centauri Defense Minister has issued a public statement from the palace on Centauri Prime:
"The Centauri Republic will not tolerate intrusions of any nature by any government. We stand alone, but those who mistake isolation for weakness will not survive the error."
A Freehold spokesperson responded:
"Accusations of spying are the Centauri's oldest excuse for aggression. This was a peaceful mission. We were invited to Beta 3 by the Centauri! They are five-faced Glymots, lying out of every mouth."
The latest development to arise since the attack is a counterclaim by the Centauri to the systems currently being surveyed by Universal Terraform. Said their Defense Minister:
"We invoked Centauri Republic Royal Decree 263 of 2051, Astrogenesis Amendment 256, Section 4468, which clearly shows that we are the rightful claimants to the suns, worlds, satellites and all living or non-living matter within the Ju'Pai quadrant. Therefore, we demand the immediate withdrawal of all Universal Terraform vessels."
Jack Nichols of Universal Terraform was quick to respond to this new claim:
"They are way out of line. We very clearly established no prior history. The jumpgates are pre-Centauri. They have done no surveys whatsoever, and they have no colonies. On the other hand UT has researched these systems for years. We have unquestionable rights to pioneer these uninhabited worlds. And on top of that we were in touch with the appropriate Centauri bureaus the whole time. If the Centauri don't like it, they can see us in court!"
The following came in because of the duty I pulled in the EA-Minbari border territories a few months back - I forgot to take the area out of my news profile - but that's okay. It's interesting and I may end up there again.
ISN: Developing
ISN Analyst Jeff Reitman of the Center for the Study of Xeno-cultural Relations has been using his weekly editorials to criticize the recent scarcity of the "mighty" Whitestar fleet. Reitman finds this especially troubling in light of rumors that the Minbari, EA and IA are withholding information about a new threat in remote territories between Minbari and EA space. Today ISN was able to track down President Sheridan and he finally gave us this reply:
NEWS FOOTAGE - B5 HALLWAY: "…the ratio of IA territory to numbers of Whitestars means that, well - let's just say that we're pretty well spread out. The point to be made here is that the Whitestar fleet was never meant to stand alone. We all need to - all of the races need to do their part. I'm sorry. No more questions. I'm late as it is. Excuse me."
Left unanswered are the rumors of "a new threat" to EA and Minbari security. ISN will continue to follow this developing story.
****
Time to finish packing and catch the shuttle. Next entry will be a test of my zero-G typing skills aboard the Artemis.
Max
18 June 2264 23:05 HOURS
The Artemis is en route to the EA-Minbari border territories. I don't know too much about the mission yet, but it has to do with some VIP research and development types that we picked up at the Cooke Military Outpost.
Our destination is the Signet System, which is composed of the star 61 Cygni A and the planets Signet 1 through 5. Signet 2 is an undeveloped desert world with Signet Station geosynchronous with the jump gate. The EA owns Signet Station. It serves various functions including a trading depot between the Minbari and EA, and it's a fairly busy port of call. Why the VIP brains are going there is a big mystery.
I've had plenty of time to get to know the pilots in my squad, Sigma Squad. They're all great pilots with stellar backgrounds, but little actual combat experience. That's to be expected, considering how many pilots have been lost during the last few years. We'll make a good team though. I've seen nothing but good attitudes and the kind of professionalism I'd expect to find on a Cruiser.
Typing in zero-g ends up not being that tough. I'm buckled into a swivel seat in front of a data terminal not unlike the one back at the station. My quarters amounts to a walk-in closet-sized space, a standard sleeping cabinet, a small head, and my desk/ data terminal. We all take the standard meds for sustained weightlessness and of course we put in our time in the workout area. To tell you the truth, it's a little boring at times, and I'm finding myself wondering if I'm going to get as much cockpit time as I did at the station. On the other hand a salty Chief Warrant Officer I know just laughed when he heard me whining about it - in a kind of ominous way. So we'll see.
Since these old warhorses are being decommissioned (and I don't have anything else to do at the moment) I'll paste in some data for posterity. Some day my kids can (should the unlikely occur and some woman decides that she can put up with me) read about what their daddy did in the service and wonder why we would travel weightless in an old can like this.
The Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser was built to complement the Nova-class Dreadnought by emphasizing speed, maneuverability and defense as opposed to the raw combat power of the Nova. It has proven hard to upgrade over the years, though.
For instance, the EA found that the Hyperion's gun turrets could not easily mount the new plasma cannon developed during the Minbari War. Some postwar modifications were made, but they did not significantly improve the class. In the late 2250's, Earth improved on the Narn Heavy Laser, allowing a more-compact version to be produced. Plans were made to use these to augment the Hyperion's aging weapons armament. Calculations showed that the class had just enough power to fire two of the new heavy lasers and still maneuver.
In 2260 President Clark issued an executive order to install the Heavy Lasers. The EAS Clarkstown was selected as the first ship to undergo the refit. Less than six months after the Clarkstown returned to duty, it was destroyed in a duel with the EAS Alexander during the opening days of the Civil War.
Converting the ship to operate the SA-31 Thunderbolt was generally rejected. The hangar bay proved too cramped to convert without reducing squadron size. Right now our armament is: 2 Heavy Lasers, 2 Heavy Pulse Cannon, 6 Medium Pulse Cannon, 4 Interceptors, and our 6 Furies.
The Artemis is jump capable and has a jump point accuracy of about 1200m.
She's 990m long, 205.5m wide, and at her tallest point, 294m, coming in at a modest 152,000 tons loaded. She's got 30 officers onboard and 780 enlisted personnel.
23:20 HOURS
Orders just came through from the Captain. There's a little more info about what we're up to.
SECRETFROM: CO Trauger
TO: Sigma Leader LCDR McCoy
Sigma Squad will escort the atmospheric shuttle EAS Trinidad, carrying our VIP's, from Signet Station to a classified R&D center at Ree'Kar 2. The Artemis will stay in the Signet system for standard patrol duty and compliance inspections at the station. This should adequately work as a cover for your mission. I don't expect any trouble, but if there is trouble your priority is to make sure that the shuttle gets safely to Ree'Kar. Your Mission Download, received en route, will fill in the specifics.
Our ETA at Signet Station is 19 June, 10:00 hours. Briefing at 10:30 hours. Sigma Squad will depart at 11:00 hours. The Trinidad will be waiting when you launch.
Fleet Captain J. Trauger.
I've never heard of the "Ree'Kar" system.
According to the database Ree'Kar is an unclaimed system based around star BD+14 2621. That'd put it right in the middle of nowhere between EA and Minbari territories. There are nine planets in all - failed cores, rocks, a gas giant, a hot house, and a desert planet. It says that the desert planet has a colony on it, known only as "Ree'Kar 2" - and, according to the database, information regarding the Ree'Kar 2 colony is classified beyond my rating. Well, well. I've heard rumors of IA-sponsored advanced projects. It's not my job to speculate, but since this R&D center is between Minbari and EA territories I wonder if this could have something to do with a joint EA-Minbari venture.
Guess I'd better catch some sack time before leading my first mission.
Max
22 June 2264 23:32 HOURS - EAS Artemis
The captain says that only time will ease what I'm going through. That may be true, but what should I do with these feelings right now? Go on, I suppose. That's all. Stay busy, put one foot in front of the other, and go on.
I'm talking about the 19 June mission to Ree'Kar 9. My squad departed Signet Station at 11:00 hours on what was supposed to be a simple escort mission - baby-sit a shuttle full of scientists and engineers en route to an RandD center on Ree'Kar 9. The mission started out normal enough as we moved away from the station through dense civilian traffic, including Minbari Flyers, EA shuttles, freighters, and even a luxury ship.
Below is a cleaned up transcript of what happened next, submitted here as personal archives.
19 June 2264 11:03 HOURS - Signet Station
HUD:
SECRET
FROM: CO Trauger
TO: Sigma Leader LCDR McCoy
DESTINATION: Ree'Kar 2
SYSTEM: Ree'Kar
WAYPOINTS: Signet Station to Delphi to Ree'Kar
OBJECTIVE: ESCORT the shuttle EAS Trinidad to Ree'Kar 2
ASSETS: Sigma Squad. Artemis is backup
RACE STATUS:
FRIENDLY:
HOSTILE:
NEUTRAL: Civilian ships
UNDETERMINED: The Blackdog prototype may have been seen in this area. If you see her, remember your orders are to deliver the VIP's. Note that Raiders have been reported in this area.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader LCDR McCoy: Trinidad this is Sigma Leader, orders are in - are you ready?
Channel 7 EAS Trinidad: Roger, Leader. Good to go.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Sigma 2 take point. The rest form up, standard escort. I'll take the six. Alright, Sigma 2, take us to the jumpgate.
11:13 HOURS - Signet Gate
Computer: Attention. Approaching gate control. Searching. Next traffic in five minutes.
Computer - cycle gate.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: This is Sigma Leader. We've got a window of five minutes before the next civilian traffic. Standby, I'm opening the gate.
Computer: Jumpgate activating.
11:14:10 HOURS - Signet Beacon - Hyperspace
Computer - lock Delphi 4 beacon.
Computer: Delphi 4 beacon locked. Computer: Attention. Sensing Incoming freighter class. Suggest -
I see it.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Sigma 2 this is Leader. Do you see the incoming?
Channel 7 Sigma 2: That's a big roger. Heading 5 degrees off beacon to give her the straight-through.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Carry on.
13:30:07 HOURS - Delphi 2 Beacon - Hyperspace
Channel 7 Sigma 2: Leader this is Two. Coming up on Delphi 2 beacon.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: This is Leader. Re-set to Ree'Kar 2 beacon.
Channel 7 Sigma 2: Understand re-set to Ree'Kar 2. WILCO.
Computer: Attention. Approaching Delphi 2 beacon.
Computer - target and lock Ree'Kar 2 beacon.
Computer: Searching. Target locked.
UNICOM Delphi 4 Mining Colony: Mayday, mayday, mayday - mayday, mayday, mayday. This is the Delphi 4 Mining Colony. Raiders attacking our transport and shuttle. This is the Delphi Mining Col - (signal lost).
Crap.
Computer - summary - Delphi 4 mining colony.
Computer: Delphi is an Earth Alliance system. Delphi 4 is a desert planet with one mining colony. Research indicates a possible source of Quantium-40. As of 17 June there is one minimally armed transport vessel - the Port Sol - a decommissioned EA Troop Transport sold to civilians - and one non-armed civilian atmospheric shuttle - the Glendale - stationed in Delphi 4 normal space.
Gold Channel Sigma Leader: EAS Artemis this is Sigma Leader, over.
Gold Channel Artemis C&C: Sigma (static), this is Artemis.
Gold Channel Sigma Leader: This is Sigma Leader. Received a mayday from the Delphi 4 mining colony, request backup.
Gold Channel Artemis C&C: This (static)… again (static)… breaking up.
Gold Channel Sigma Leader: This is Sigma Leader - Sigma Leader - Delphi 4 mayday - Delphi 4 mayday - request backup - I say again, request backup.
Gold Channel Artemis C&C: Sigma (static) … can hear me (static) … unable to (static).
Crap.
Computer - lock Delphi 4 Beacon.
Computer: Delphi 4 Beacon locked.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Sigma Squad, EAS Trinidad, this is Sigma Leader -listen up. I've just received a mayday from Delphi 4 mining colony. They're under attack by raiders. Sigma 2, escort the Trinidad at best possible speed to Ree'Kar 9 and standby there.
Channel 7 Sigma 2: This is Sigma 2. WILCO. Understand escort the Trinidad. Out.
Channel 7 EAS Trinidad: This is the Trinidad - understood. Out.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: This is Sigma Leader; the rest of you are with me. You are authorized to engage raider ships in Delphi 4 local space only. I'll have more when we get in there. Heat'em up! Let's go!
UNICOM Sigma Leader: Delphi 4, Delphi 4 this is Lieutenant Commander McCoy of the Earth Alliance responding to your mayday. Do you copy, over?
Computer: Approaching Delphi 4 Beacon.
Computer - cycle gate.
UNICOM Sigma Leader: Delphi 4, Delphi 4 this is Lieutenant Commander McCoy of the Earth Alliance responding to your mayday. Do you copy, over?
UNICOM Glendale: Hey! This is the Glendale. Good to hear you. Comms are down at the colony. We've got seven raider fighters attacking, but there are more somewhere. Can't see them on the radar. I'm parked under the Port Sol's gun. They haven't blown us up yet, so I think they intend to board (signal lost - static).
Computer: UNICOM jammed. Activating countermeasures.
Computer: Gate activating.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: This is Sigma Leader. Standby to follow me into normal space. We've got seven or more raiders waiting for us on the other side. We'll be playing zone defense. I say again - zone defense around the transport. Follow me in and wait for my signal. Okay - here we go.
13:35:03 HOURS - Delphi 4 Normal Space
UNICOM Glendale: I see you! I see (static) Glendale. Beacon on. Show them what the EA is made out of!
UNICOM Sigma Leader: This is Sigma Leader, roger that.
Computer - lock Glendale beacon.
Computer: Searching - target locked.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: I've got a bead on the Glendale - follow me - maximum burn! On my mark break into zone defense around the Port Sol.
UNICOM Sigma Leader: to the hostile ships - this is Lieutenant Robert McCoy of the Earth Alliance! You are ordered to surrender or we will open fire.
UNICOM unidentified: Bite me, you pompous EA weenie.
UNICOM unidentified2: (laughter) I don't believe you're good enough to enforce that. You're probably just a kid. Besides - according to my radar, we've got you outnumbered. Prepare to have a short life - kid. (Laughter).
Channel 7 Sigma 5: Those sons of a -
UNICOM Sigma Leader: To the hostiles. This is McCoy. Suit yourself. Out.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Sigma Squad, this is Sigma Leader - standby - and - MARK! Fire at will!
Computer: Entering firing range.
Computer: Enemy craft in range.
Computer: Detecting energy spike - probable raider fighter targeting.
Computer: Probable raider fighter locked on.
I don't think so - aaaarrrrgh -
Computer: Enemy lock lost.
Okay - come here smart a -
Computer: Target acquired.
Computer: Target locked.
Computer: Target destroyed.
Channel 7 Sigma 3: This is 3! Aft stabilizers hit! I'm okay though. (static blast - structural noise) Shit! Took another hit! Ah - power supply at 10%, damage to stabilizers and rear and anterior thrusters, detecting leak infusion reactor system!
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: get in under the transport gun with the shuttle. You're out of play.
Channel 7 Sigma 3: roger that.
Computer: Warning! Enemy weapons system locked on!
Deploy countermeasures! Arrrrggggh! (Heavy breathing) Arrrrrrgh!
Computer: Countermeasures deployed.
(Undecipherable noise - vocal, breathing)
Computer:Warning! Excessive g-force. Red-out imminent.
Computer: Enemy lock lost.
Where are you? There! (Heavy breathing)
Computer: Warning! Excessive g-force. Red-out im -
Computer: Warning! Structural load limits at maximum.
(Heavy breathing)
Computer: Target acquired - target locked - target destroyed.
Channel 7 Sigma 3: This is 3 - I'm having trouble controlling her - not sure - (static blast) I'm hit again! Bastards!
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Hold on! I'm on my way. Sigma 4! Can you get to Sigma 3?
Channel 7 Sigma 4: Negative - got one on my six and another coming in.
Channel 7 Sigma 3: (Static) stabilizers hit again. Wing (static) cells damaged. Weapons systems down. Radiation levels climbing. (Onboard computer overheard: Warning: system failure imminent. Radiation levels (static)% beyond safe levels. Life support critical). I'm finished - flaming out! (Heavy static).
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Eject!
Channel 7 Sigma 3: Roger - punching ou - (static blast) (screams) (signal lost).
Nooooooo! God -
Computer: Warning! Detecting multiple energy spikes.
Computer: Warning! Enemy weapons lock.
Concussive blast - structural stress
Ahhh - crap!
Computer: Damage to vertical LTS system 2. Detecting minor leak in fusion reactor system. Radiation levels acceptable. Auto survey complete.
(Heavy breathing) aarrrrgg-gg-ggh.
Computer: Warning! Excessive g-force. Red-out imminent.
Computer: Target locked. Target destroyed.
Voice - Indistinguishable - heavy breathing
Computer: Warning! Excessive -
Computer: Target locked. Target destroyed.
Channel 7 Sigma 4: Thanks, Leader!
Channel 7 Sigma 5: They're all over us.
Channel 7 Sigma 6: There're too many! We need reinforcements!
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: There are no reinforcements, and we're not giving up. Regroup on me - under the transport's gun! Cross formation! I say again, regroup on me! Cross formation. Do it!
Channel 7 Sigma 4: WILCO.
Channel 7 Sigma 5: WILCO.
Channel 7 Sigma 6: WILCO.
UNICOM Sigma Leader: Port Sol, this is Sigma Leader.
UNICOM Port Sol: I hear you, mate.
UNICOM Sigma Leader: Do you still have Channel 7?
UNICOM Port Sol: aaaah - yep - it's still there. Want me to switch?
UNICOM Sigma Leader: Yes! Go to 7.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Port Sol?
Channel 7 Port Sol: I'm here.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Raiders haven't got this channel - can't hear us. I'm taking my squad to your stern. Gotta leave the bow to you and your gunner. Can do?
Channel 7 Port Sol: You've got it, mate. God's speed.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Sigma squad, listen up. Two things. Take a few deep breaths. We've been playing defense long enough. They can't match our maneuverability, or our discipline. Friend of mine at B5 got this trick from an old Centauri pilot. As soon as you've been targeted, make an extreme move in any direction. Take it to red-out and maximum structural load. It breaks their lock. And then immediately flip around and tag them. It works! Trust me - I've been doing it since we got here. Number two: forget the bow of the transport and the shuttle, protect the aft section. I'll take top. Four is port. Five is starboard. Six is bottom. Okay, standby to break with afterburners - on my mark - mark!
Computer - target whoever targets me!
Computer: Sensing spike - acquiring target - target lost.
No you don't!
Computer: Target acquired. Target locked.
Computer: Target destroyed.
(Unintelligible breathing)
Computer: Target locked.
Computer: Target destroyed.
Computer: Attention - weapons system overheat
Computer: Vertical LTS system 2 at 50%
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Five! Shake that sonofabitch off your six! Do what I told you - now! Oooooh - nice fireworks - atta-boy!
Channel 7 Sigma 6: Leader! Unknown fighter type on attack vector! I see it! Against the moon - it's black! Looks kinda like a Thunderbolt - what'll we do?
What? Computer ID incoming!
Computer: Identity unknown - closest match Thunderbolt class.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: This is Sigma Leader. Do not - I repeat - do not fire on the incoming fighter! Ignore her! Focus on the raiders!
Computer: Incoming Gold Channel.
Take it!
Gold Channel - unidentified: Hi, there. Was in the neighborhood. Thought you might like some help.
Gold Channel Sigma Leader: Blackdog! I thought I recognized your ship. Hey - knock yourself out - plenty to go around.
Gold Channel - unidentified: WILCO - happy hunting.
Computer: Sensing spike - acquiring target.
(Unintelligible breathing and vocalizations)
Computer: Target locked. Target destroyed.
Channel 7 Sigma 6: Whoa! Look at the black Thunderbolt! Who ever it is - is good! A double hit! (Overheard explosion). Damn - close one.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Cut the chatter - pay attention!
Channel 7 Sigma 5: Six! Bandit on your ass.
Channel 7 Sigma 6: Taking evasive action.
Channel 7 Sigma 5: Got'm in my site. Bingo!
Channel 7 Sigma 4: Great Shot! Look! The rest are headed for the jumpgate - they're making a run for it!
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: This is Sigma Leader - Cease fire! Break off! I say again, break off and regroup around me.
Gold Channel Sigma Leader: Blackdog! - or whoever you are - thanks for the assistance. The brass is painting you like a traitor, but you sure don't act like one to me. Any chance of coming back into the fold?
Gold Channel - unidentified: You're welcome, and I doubt it. Don't try to follow me - your fighters are falling apart and you wouldn't be able to track me anyway. Out.
Channel 7 Sigma 4: Hey - where's the fancy Thunderbolt going?
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: I don't know. We have more pressing things to worry about - standby.
UNICOM Sigma Leader: Glendale and Port Sol, this is Sigma Leader. I don't think the raiders will be back any time soon. I'll recommend a patrol in this area - over.
UNICOM Glendale: Leader this is the Glendale. Can't thank you enough for your help. Glendale Out.
UNICOM Delphi 4 Mining Colony: Alliance Leader, this is Delphi 4 Mining Colony - comms. back up. From the looks of our sensors I guess thanks are in order. Since word got out that we may have a Q40 field here - we've been wondering how long it would take to get hit. I'm glad you heard our mayday. Delphi out.
UNICOM Port Sol: Alliance Leader, this is the Port Sol. Our thanks. If the bastards show up again they'll pay for your loss - I guarantee it! The bastards. Can you stay around? We've got a great cook and plenty of German beer! We can toast your lost mate and send him off proper!
UNICOM Sigma Leader: This is Sigma Leader. Thanks, Captain. But we've got an escort mission to finish up. Maybe another time. Sigma Leader out.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Sigma Squad, this is Sigma Leader - report.
Channel 7 Sigma 4: This is 4 - no major damage.
Channel 7 Sigma 5: This is 5 - no major damage.
Channel 7 Sigma 6: This is 6 - engine 3 at 45% and tending to overheat - otherwise okay.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader: Roger - standby.
Computer - auto survey.
Computer: Damage to vertical LTS system 2 - operating at 45%. Detecting minor leak in fusion reactor system. Radiation levels acceptable. Auto survey complete.
Gold Channel Sigma Leader: Sigma 2, do you copy, over.
Gold Channel Sigma 2: This is Sigma 2 - roger.
Gold Channel Sigma Leader: This is McCoy. What's your status?
Gold Channel Sigma 2: This is 2. The shuttle just landed safely at the colony.
Gold Channel Sigma Leader: This is McCoy. Good work.
Gold Channel C&C Artemis: Sigma Leader, this is Captain Trauger, do you copy?
Gold Channel Sigma Leader: This is McCoy, affirmative. Glad to hear you.
Gold Channel C&C Artemis: This is Captain Trauger. Stay where you are, we're on our way. Sigma 2 - stay put. We'll pick you up.
Gold Channel Sigma 2: This is Sigma 2 - WILCO.
Gold Channel Sigma Leader: This is Mccoy - WILCO.
***
MISSION DEBRIEFING
While there is no way to ignore the loss sustained in this mission, when the unexpected happened, as it often can in the border systems, you acted quickly to provide assistance to civilians in need. We must always remember that our overall mission is to provide a safe environment for civilians - even in the border systems. As it turns out, small amounts of Q40 have indeed been found at Delphi 4, so this system could gain strategic value. Moreover, you did not fail to achieve your primary mission, though it was risky to send the VIP's with a single escort. While I see room for improvement, your valor and leadership is noted.
Captain Trauger
The captain will notify the Lieutenant Brine's next of kin. He'll pass along that David died with honor in battle protecting civilians, and that will give them something to hang onto. In the abstract they know what may happen when a son or daughter goes into service. But no one knows how it will feel, or how they will react when the news comes, until it happens.
I feel like I should have been the one to tell them, though I'd be lying if I said that I'm not relieved to have ducked it this time. But in time it will be my responsibility to do this - to notify parents, or a wife, or a brother. The way things are going in the territories right now, I have the terrible feeling that I may get a lot of practice.
Max.
31 July 2264 23:09
EAS Artemis - en route Epsilon Eridani
After tinkering with this old data terminal for a couple of weeks between missions I've finally managed to get voice recognition working flawlessly, so no more zero-g typing for Max.
Sigma Squad is now as tight as any squad back at the station. You couldn't ask for better pilots or a better group of officers.
We're on our way to Babylon 5 for repairs and much needed R and R after an intense few days in Sector 46.
The Artemis was assigned to patrol Hyach where tensions have been growing among Alliance members attending the regional trade conference, including an Earth delegation. It was supposed to be a standard show of strength mission, but everything went to hell after we received a distress call from a very good friend of mine, and we were scrambled to assist.
Following is the edited cockpit transcript, which gives a pretty good idea of what happened next.
***
30 July 2264 15:22 HOURS - Shri-Shraba Normal Space
HUD:
FROM: CO Trauger
TO: Sigma Leader LCDR McCoy
DESTINATION: Halax 3
SYSTEM: Halax
WAYPOINTS: Hyach 2 (Shri-Shraba), D'Grn, Halax 3
OBJECTIVE: Defend Yolu freighter
ASSETS: Sigma Squad. Artemis is backup.
RACE STATUS:
FRIENDLY: Yolu
HOSTILE:
NEUTRAL:
UNDETERMINED: Brakiri
Computer: Incoming Gold Channel - Captain Trauger.
Channel 7 Sigma Leader LCDR McCoy: Sigma Squad, this is McCoy. Form up and standby - I've got an incoming message from the Old Ma