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Taldrenites => Starfleet Command Fan Fiction => Topic started by: DrPhoton on December 11, 2012, 07:05:22 pm

Title: New Star Trek Fan Fiction Serial: "Scales and Ridges" by Thomas Oakes
Post by: DrPhoton on December 11, 2012, 07:05:22 pm
Here is a serial, set in the JJ Abramsverse, for your enjoyment. Feedback is more than welcome.

Part one:

Kirk realized he was screwed the moment he snatched up the Rook, which Spock had left undefended through an apparently careless error. Exchanging a Knight, Kirk had won the exchange, at the cost of removing his King's most important defender. Spock raised an eyebrow and announced, “Mate in six.” Kirk's reply was cut off by the blaring Red Alert klaxon.

Kirk jammed his fist down on the tabletop communicator button. “Kirk to Uhura: Report.”

Uhura's image appeared on the triscreen monitor, and she swiveled in the center seat to face Kirk. “Sir, we're receiving a distress signal from a ship identifying itself as the CDS Mongrom. They report they are under attack by Klingons and are requesting immediate assistance. Mr. Sulu has plotted a course and is standing by for your order to engage.”

A Cardassian ship, Kirk thought. Not much was known about them, except their tendency towards aggression, but as a starship commander he had an obligation to assist any vessel in distress. “How soon until we can be on the scene?”

Uhura conferred briefly with Sulu, then turned her attention back to Kirk's image. “At maximum warp, we can be there in nine minutes. But sir, both ships are in the Klingon/Federation Neutral Zone.”

“Understood. Punch it, Uhura. If the Klingons are in the Neutral Zone, they've already violated the treaty. Spock and I will be on the Bridge in a moment, and I'll talk to Scotty about getting more speed out of her.”

“Aye sir, proceeding on intercept course.” The Enterprise leaped ahead as her warp engines were pushed to full power, creating an unmistakeable shipwide thrum.

Kirk stabbed his finger down on the communicator button again. “Kirk to Engineering.”

“Scott here, Captain. I've already got my Engineerin' crew workin', we'll get more speed out of her, sair.”

“I need Warp Nine, Scotty.”

“If ye'll pardon my sayin' so, Captain, ye don't ask for much, do ye?”

“Lives are at stake, Mr. Scott. Can you do it?”

Scott paused for a moment. “Aye Captain, we kin do it, but I don't recommend it. She's not rated for that kind of speed.”

“Understood. Make it happen, Scotty. I'm counting on you.” Kirk closed the communication and stood. “Spock, you're with me.” The two men exited the room and trotted for the turbolift.

A few moments later, Kirk and Spock emerged onto the Bridge, where Uhura was busy managing the crisis. “Mr. Chekov, what do we know about the ship that's in trouble,” she asked.

Spock answered the question on Chekov's behalf. “It belongs to a race called the Cardassians, about which little is known. They are suffering a severe economic downturn caused by resource depletion. As a result, they have turned to conquest of neighboring star systems in order to satisfy their need for raw materials.”

Uhura ceded the center seat to Kirk and took her station, relieving the ensign that had been manning it for her. The Nubian officer's fingers played across her instruments. “Attempting to contact the Cardassian vessel, Captain, but the Klingons are jamming all transmissions.”

Spock took over his science station, sending Chekov back to Navigation. “ETA now is two point five minutes, Captain. We should be able to penetrate the Klingon jamming in 22.4 seconds if we give Communications 125 percent power.”

“Do it,” Kirk ordered.

“Captain, we are at battlestations with phasers at full power. Torpedo bays are loaded and are charging up now, sir,” Sulu reported.

“Very good, Mr. Sulu.” Kirk turned to the Navigator. “Chekov, time to enter Neutral Zone?”

“Just under one meenot, Keptin.”

“Captain, we've managed to break through the jamming.” This from Uhura.

“This is Gul Vorek of the CDS Mongrom requesting immediate assistance. We have been attacked by Klingons and are venting warp plasma. Weapons systems are down and shields are failing. Please help us!”

Kirk swiveled towards Uhura. “Open a channel to that vessel, Lieutenant.”

“Hailing frequencies open, Captain.”

“Gul Vorek, this is Captain James T. Kirk of the federation starship Enterprise, responding to your distress call. We are less than two minutes away and proceeding to your position at maximum warp. Hold on.”

“Thank you, Captain Kirk. These Klingon brutes opened fire on us for no reason!”

Uhura turned towards Kirk. “Captain, the Klingon ship is hailing us.”

“On screen, Lieutenant.” The image of the masked Klingon captain, seated in his elevated chair in the middle of his vessel's foreboding and lugubrious Bridge, filled the viewscreen.

“This is Commander KadRiQ of the Slasher. Stay out of this, Earther. This Cardassian petaQ crossed into Klingon space and raided one of our worlds. We are going to destroy his ship, and if you enter the Neutral Zone, we'll destroy yours as well.”

The Cardassian gul pre-empted Kirk's reply. “Not true, Captain. This area is classified as neutral space; it belongs neither to the Klingons nor to your Federation.”

Sulu faced Kirk. “Sir, the Klingons have disengaged with the Mongrom and are moving to intercept us.”

“We are now in violation of the treaty, Captain, just as the Klingons are,” Spock added.

“Specs on the Klingon ship, Spock,” Kirk asked.

“Klingon D-6 battlecruiser. Formidable, but no match for the Enterprise. Captain, the Mongrom has lost maneuverability and life support. Estimate they have eight to ten minutes of air left.”

The Klingon captain's voice blared over the loudspeaker. “Prepare for destruction, Enterprise. We gave you fair warning.”

To be continued...
Title: Re: New Star Trek Fan Fiction Serial: "Scales and Ridges" by Thomas Oakes
Post by: Strat on December 11, 2012, 07:13:19 pm
Here is a serial, set in the JJ Abramsverse,
Part one:

Kirk realized he was screwed

I laughed when I saw the first words of the JJ Fan Story was that "Kirk was screwed"..

But that was still some good writing.
Title: Re: New Star Trek Fan Fiction Serial: "Scales and Ridges" by Thomas Oakes
Post by: DrPhoton on December 15, 2012, 01:44:34 pm
Thanks, mate. Now, for Part 2.

Scales and Ridges, Part 2

By Thomas Oakes

   “Captain, seven seconds to phaser range on the Klingon,” Sulu reported.

   “Drop to Warp Factor One,  Mr. Sulu,” Kirk replied, swiveling to face Uhura. “Lieutenant, open a channel to the Klingon.”

   “Hailing frequencies open, sir.”

   “Klingon vessel, this is Captain James T. Kirk of the USS Enterprise. If you scan us, you'll see that your vessel is vastly outclassed by ours. We're not looking for a fight, but we will defend ourselves with lethal force, and–”

   The Klingon captain broke in. “You mean you're the Starfleet officer who destroyed Nero's ship,” he demanded.

   “One and the same,” Kirk replied.

   The Klingon turned to issue an order, and on the Enterprise sensors, his ship visibly slowed. “Kirk, your battle with Nero is known to us. Mine was one of four dozen battlecruisers that took on Nero at Rura Penthe, and we were the only ones to make it out of there alive. How did you manage to defeat Nero's weaponry?”

   Kirk smiled and spread his hands. “I moonlight as a travel agent to Vorta Vor.”

   It took the Klingon a moment to realize that Kirk was joking about the Romulan version of heaven. Then he threw back his head and guffawed. “Kirk! Taking on Nero was an act of bravery, and in killing him you performed a great service to the Klingon Empire. I would like to invite you and your officers to beam aboard my ship so we can drink blood wine and sing songs of your victory!”

   Spock replied on Kirk's behalf. “Captain, we would like nothing better, but the Cardassians have lost life support, and unless we assist them immediately, everyone on board will die. I know they have wronged you and that your anger with them is justified. Will you allow us to help them?”

   KadRiQ slammed his hand down onto the armrest of his chair and bellowed. “After what they've done?” The Klingon captain took a moment to compose himself and then continued. “Kirk, I will do this for you, as a favor from one warrior to another. But be warned! We will not tolerate another incursion into the Neutral Zone!”

   “Nor shall we, Captain,” Kirk calmly replied. “Now what do you say we put our heads together and find out what this Cardassian was really up to. Something tells me he didn't cross into the Beta Quadrant to buy a couple of cases of Romulan Ale.”

   The Klingon laughed again and pointed his index finger. “I like you, Kirk! You've got a good sense of humor for an Earther. Lead the way. KadRiQ out.”

   Kirk turned to the helmsman. “Secure from General Quarters. Continue on our approach course to the Mongrom, Mr. Sulu. Bring us to within transporter range.”

   “Aye, sir.”

   “Captain, the Cardassians report they have several casualties,” Uhura reported.

   Kirk punched the intercom button for Sick Bay. “Bones, we're going to be sending you some wounded Cardassians in about two minutes.”

   Spock cut into the conversation. “Doctor McCoy, since Cardassians are reptilian, you might want to make certain that you have an ample supply of your famous snake oil on hand.”

   “Very funny, Mr. Spock,” McCoy responded. “If I didn't know better, I'd say you were trying to be irritating, but I know you don't understand that emotion.”

   “I did not know the word when I came on board this ship, Doctor, but after making your acquaintance, I have reached a full understanding of the concept,” said Spock.

   “Now you listen here, you pointy-eared–”

   “Enough you two,” Kirk interjected. “We've got a shipload of people to save. Uhura, ask the Cardassians for the coordinates of their sick and wounded so we can beam them aboard.”

   “Yes, Captain.”

   The incoming intercom whistled. “Engineering to Captain Kirk.”

   “Kirk here, Scotty. Report.”

   “Captain, while Mr. Sulu is resting that lead foot of his, I'd like to take the warp engines offline for a few minutes to conduct some minor repairs. The Enterprise can do Warp Nine in theory, but her maximum emergency speed is technically a hair over Warp Eight.”

   “Very well, Mr. Scott. You may proceed. How much time will you need?

   “No more 'n half an hour, sair. I've also got an engineering team ready to transport over to the Cardassian ship to help with repairs.”

   Before Kirk could respond, the Cardassian vessel detonated like an exploding sun, sending fragments of the ship and pockets of hot plasma flying in all directions. The sensors on board the Enterprise were overloaded and blinded for thirty seconds, long enough for half a dozen Orion raiders to drop out of warp within weapons range.

   The Orion pirates immediately opened fire with myotronic beams, disrupting all tactical systems on both Slasher and Enterprise. Damage to the two ships' hulls was minimal, but the surprise attack worked. Neither ship could raise its shields or fire its weapons for twenty seconds, long enough for the pirates to carry out their plan. Crewmembers and officers aboard the Slasher and Enterprise began dematerializing en masse, beamed to the Orion vessels as prisoners. The six enemy raiders then warped away before Kirk or KadRiQ could respond.
Title: Re: New Star Trek Fan Fiction Serial: "Scales and Ridges" by Thomas Oakes
Post by: DrPhoton on December 21, 2012, 08:18:34 pm
Part 3 of Scales and Ridges, by Thomas Oakes

The Enterprise got power back first, and Kirk ordered the shields raised while he got his bearings. The damage was minimal – mostly overloaded circuits and some hull damage – but both Spock and Sulu were gone. He was just about to have Uhura request a status report from all decks when the turbolift opened and deposited Mr. Scott.

   “Captain,” the chief engineer asked, “what in blazes is goin' on? One minute I'm workin' on the warp drive, and the next I know, systems all over the ship go haywire and people start disappearin' faster 'n apple volcanoes at a cricket match!”

   “It appears the distress signal from the Cardassians was a ruse, Scotty. They waited until we got close and then self-destructed, blinding our sensors. Apparently, friends of theirs showed up and started abducting our crew. How did you avoid being captured?”

   “I did what any sensible officer would do under the circumstances, Captain. I ran for the turbolift.”

   “A wise choice, Mr. Scott.” Kirk turned to Uhura. “Status report, Lieutenant.”

   “Sir, we're missing 327 crewmembers, including Mr. Spock, Mr. Sulu, Mr. Kyle and Dr. McCoy. That means we…” Uhura paused momentarily. “Captain, the Slasher is hailing us.”

   “On screen, Lieutenant.”

   KadRiQ appeared on the viewscreen, surrounded by smoke and systems still shorting out. “Kirk! What happened?”

   Kirk deferred the question to Chekov, who was manning Spock's science station. “Sirs, thees was apparently an ambush. The Cardassian ship blew up as a distraction, and then a number of Orion pirate raiders warped in, hit us with a paralyzing weapon, and started abducting our crew.”

   “We've got just over 90 crewmembers left, KadRiQ. How about you?” This from Kirk.

   KadRiQ consulted one of his officers. “We're down to about 35 – not enough to man our ship. We're stuck here until help arrives. Thieving fools, why did they leave our ships behind?”

   “Keptins, I heff a thought about that,” Chekov interjected, looking to Kirk for approval. When his captain nodded, the Russian navigator continued. “It was what in Russia we used to call smash and grab. Thieves show up on several small vehicles unexpectedly, smash security systems at a bank or business, steal the most expensive goods and then leave in under two meenots. Meester Scott had our warp engines offline, and I see here, Keptin KadRiQ, that your warp engines were damaged in the explosion.”

   The Klingon captain muttered an epithet and threw a padd across his Bridge. Scott took advantage of the momentary lull in conversation. “Captain, we canna run a starship with only 90 people. Minimum complement for a skeleton crew is 122 on a ship this large and complex. We're going to have to ask for a rescue ship, sittin' here nice and tidy in the Neutral Zone!”

   Kirk massaged his jaw. “Maybe not, Mr. Scott.” He turned back to the viewscreen. “Captain KadRiQ, we're both stuck here without enough crew to get back home. If we want to get our crews back, we're going to have to work together.”

    “Impossible, Kirk. Klingons and Earthers do not work together. We are rivals; adversaries!”

   “Yes,” Kirk replied,  “and we can remain at odds with each other for however many days or weeks it takes our respective fleets to send help.” Kirk raised his finger to make a point. “Or, we can set our differences aside, pool our resources, and get our two crews back before they are gone forever. Don't you think that's worth spending some time with a few Earthers?”

   KadRiQ grimaced. “Humans smell funny and are drawn to bright blue light like Tarkellian moths, but if it means I'll have a chance at getting my hands on those Orion toDSaH who ambushed us, I suppose my men and I can handle it.”

   “Good, Captain. Prepare to completely power down and abandon your ship. We'll leave it here adrift with a warning buoy warning that it is a plague ship in case a curious traveler stumbles upon it. With its systems fully shut down, though, it should, for all intents and purposes, be invisible.”

   “Fine, Kirk. I'll need about half a rep to get my crew ready, then I'll hail you when we are ready. KadRiQ out.”

   “Uh Captain, in case you're wondering, sir, half a rep is about thirty of our minutes,” Uhura explained.

   “Thanks, Uhura.” Kirk turned to his chief engineer. “Scotty, I'm going to need full warp power in 25 minutes.”

   “Aye, Captain, ye'll have it. But don't be askin' for any more Warp Nine speeds for a while. Best I can do right now is about Warp Seven.”

   “No promises, Mr. Scott. Now off with you.” Kirk turned back to Uhura. “Lieutenant, who do we have left that can take the helm?”

   Uhura consulted her board. “Sir, Mr. DeSalle is still on board, and he is fully rated as a helmsman.”

   “Good. Have him report to the bridge immediately, and then please take over Navigation.” Kirk turned to Chekov at the Science station. “Which way did those Orions go when they bugged out, Mister?”

   “Keptin, they scattered in three deefferent directions and are now out of sensor range. But sair, what I don't understand is why they took people instead of hardware. The Orions deal in the slave trade, but they must know that the Federation will never give up until its people are recovered. Eece more trouble for them than it is worth.”

   “Captain,” Uhura reported, “KadRiQ reports he and his officers are ready to beam over.”

   “Give them the proper coordinates, Lieutenant, and have them beam over. Advise the crew to meet up in the ship's theater immediately, and have the technicians in all four transporter rooms escort the Klingons there.” Kirk rose from his seat and headed for the turbolift, pausing in mid-stride before he got there. “The two of you will remain on the Bridge. Chekov, remain at the science station, and Uhura, you have the conn.”

   In the theater, a Klingon crewman ascended to the stage. “taH Pagh taHbe,” he declared, to a round of applause from his shipmates. Seeing the looks of confusion on the Starfleet contingent, he switched to Federation Standard. “To be or not to be, that is the question,” he intoned, to which KadRiQ, in the audience, responded, “Get off that stage now or your backside will know what it means 'to be or not to be' hanging from the point of my boot!” This drew even more laughter from the crewmembers present, both Federation and Klingon.

   Just then Kirk entered, and the hum of conversation dropped noticeably. Kirk crossed over to KadRiQ. Extending his hand, he said, “Jim Kirk. Welcome aboard the Enterprise. I hope I haven't kept you waiting.”

   KadRiQ shook Kirk's arm in the Klingon fashion, smiling. “Your timing is excellent, Kirk! I was just getting ready to practice my footwork.”

   Kirk raised his eyebrows in question.

   “On my first officer, whose fondness for Shakespeare briefly overcame my fondness for him. Here he comes now.”
   The Klingon first officer trotted over to Kirk and KadRiQ. “My dear Captain Kirk,” he said, extending his hand in human fashion. “I am Koloth, first officer of the Slasher.”
   

To be continued...
Title: Re: New Star Trek Fan Fiction Serial: "Scales and Ridges" by Thomas Oakes
Post by: DrPhoton on January 14, 2013, 12:26:10 am
Scales and Ridges, Part 4

By Thomas Oakes

Kirk took Koloth's proffered hand and gave it a quick pump. “Your Federation Standard is impeccable, Commander Koloth,” he commented.

“My father received a diplomatic posting to Earth when I was two years old, and I was raised on your homeworld until I left to join the Klingon Academy. Commander KadRiQ lived on Earth for several years during his adolescence as well.”

Kirk raised his eyebrows. “That explains why you understand Earth customs and culture, then,” he offered. “So what was your favorite pastime while you were growing up there?”

“Sports,” KadRiQ answered. “Particularly football.”

“What positions did you play, gentlemen,” Kirk asked.

“I was an offensive fielder. Koloth was an offensive cheerleader.” KadRiQ laughed at his own joke.

Kirk smiled in spite of himself, and took the stage with KadRiQ at his side. After calling the crew to attention, Kirk related the events that had transpired, and explained why the Klingons were aboard, and what their role would be. “Make no mistake,” he explained. “The Klingons are our guests, and I expect all of you to treat them with the same respect you would treat other Federation crewmembers.”

KadRiQ stepped up beside Kirk. “Klingons, we and the Earthers have a common enemy, and we have come together to defeat that enemy and get our shipmates back. On this ship, you are all under Kirk's command; you will follow his orders as if they were mine. Any Klingon that gets out of line will  answer to me personally – after Captain Kirk has finished with you!”

Kirk took back the podium. “Klingons will receive a padd with information to help you navigate the ship. You will also be assigned duties according to your expertise.” Kirk then turned to KadRiQ. “Have you still got your chief science officer? Mine was taken by the Orions, and my navigator is filling in.”

“I'm really an engineer, but Koloth is an adequate science officer,” KadRiQ replied.

“Good. I can use you both on the Bridge, then,” Kirk replied. “Follow me.” The three men exited the theater and headed for the nearest turbolift.
   
A few moments later, Kirk and the two Klingons stepped out of the turbolift and onto the Bridge. Kirk addressed Uhura. “Status report.”

“All systems operational, including warp drive. The acting crew chiefs are working to incorporate the Klingons into their respective teams,” Uhura reported, vacating the center seat.

“Keptin, I believe I have determined wheech ships to follow,” Chekov reported. “Two of them headed towards Romulan space, but that makes no sense. The Romulans would not be interested in holding Federation or Klingon officers.”

“Agreed, Mr. Chekov. Please continue,” Kirk answered.

“The second group of ships is headed for the Orion system, which does not make sense, because they would be leading us right to their front door.”

“Decoys,” Kirk mused.

“Yes, Keptin. The third group is on a heading that weel take them to the Chin'toka system, outside of Federation space. I suggest we follow thees ship, because I believe that is where they are taking the hostages.”

Kirk faced DeSalle, who was by then manning the helm. “How long will it take to get to the Chin'toka system, Mister?”

DeSalle tapped at his console briefly and turned to face Kirk. “Sixty-four hours, 38 minutes at Warp Six, Captain.”

“Lay in a course and engage at Warp Six, DeSalle.” Kirk punched a button on his command chair. “Kirk to Engineering.”

“Scott here, sir.”

“Scotty, what's the best sustained cruising speed you can give me for the next three days or so?”

“She's rated for a maximum cruising speed of Warp Six, Captain, but I believe I can get at least another half warp factor, maybe a wee bit more. You should be good for Warp 6.5.”
Title: Re: New Star Trek Fan Fiction Serial: "Scales and Ridges" by Thomas Oakes
Post by: Vipre on January 14, 2013, 12:40:57 am
Glad to see an update, it's been a good story so far.
Title: Re: New Star Trek Fan Fiction Serial: "Scales and Ridges" by Thomas Oakes
Post by: DrPhoton on January 21, 2013, 08:53:50 pm
Scales and Ridges, Part 5

by: Thomas Oakes

The captain of the Purloiner brought his green fist down upon the table. “Six of our ships, and the Federation vessel comes after us! How and why?”


The Orion helmsman responded with her most seductive smile. “They did have a 16.67 percent chance of guessing right. Maybe it was just random luck.”


Captain Dorrad-Sehr waved her off. “I do not believe in coincidences or in random chance. Either they have an upgraded sensor package that we are not aware of – doubtful – or someone on this ship is feeding them information. I must know which is true!”


The chief of security, a broad-shouldered, muscular Orion wearing a metallic vest, spoke up. “I suggest we interrogate some of the hostages. We could start with the Vulcan.”


“Bah,” Dorrad-Sehr protested, “we won't get anything out of the Vulcan. Nothing can make them talk.”


“Then one of the humans, sir,” the security chief replied. “They're easily persuaded by our pheromones.”


Dorrad-Sehr seemed to think for a moment. “All right, find one that looks ripe and bring him here.” He turned to the helm officer. “Prepare yourself. We need this information.” He thought a moment and then called out to the departing security officer. “You, too. You will return with the prisoner, in case her feminine wiles prove ineffective.”


The Orion security chief made a fist, tightening the muscles in his arm. “If he is unresponsive, sir, I will beat him silly.”


“Yes,” Dorrad-Sehr replied, “that is another good reason for you to stay with us.” The officers around the table laughed at their captain's humor.


A few minutes later, the security chief returned, led by two security officers who force-walked McCoy between them. They deposited him in front of the Orion captain and retreated to either side of the door.

“Name,” Dorrad-Sehr demanded.


“Leonard McCoy, chief medical officer of the U.S.S. Enterprise. And you?”


Dorrad-Sehr ignored the question. “You are the ranking officer officer among the humans, are you not?”


McCoy shook his head. “No. That honor belongs to Commander Spock, who outranks me.”
The sexy female Orion helm officer sidled up to McCoy. “Oh, but you are much more interesting than an ice-cold Vulcan,” she said, stroking McCoy's chest.


McCoy gently but firmly pushed her away. “Mr. Spock is the only one authorized to speak for us.”


Dorrad-Sehr stood. “Spock is not on board this ship,” he lied. “That responsibility now falls to you.”


McCoy glared at the Orion captain. “Why have you abducted us? The Federation will not let this stand. You're taking a big gamble–”


“Save your threats, Dr. McCoy. By the time your people track us down, there will be no one left for your Federation to rescue. Unless you cooperate, we will begin spacing members of your crew, one by one.”


“What do you want to know, anyway,” McCoy demanded.


“Describe the armament and sensor package on the Enterprise,” Dorrad-Sehr replied.


McCoy raised his hands. “I'm a doctor, not an engineer,” he explained. “I heal the sick and let other people handle things like weapons and sensors.”


“Come now, Doctor. You are also an officer and graduate of Starfleet Academy. To graduate, you had to qualify on all major ship's systems.”

McCoy glowered at the Orions but offered no reply.


“Very well, then,” Dorrad-Sehr said. “Birret-Vor,” he addressed the security chief. “Take one of the Federation crewmembers to Airlock Number 4. Stand by for further orders.”


“You're bluffing,” McCoy offered. “Orions are pirates but not murderers. Why don't you tell  me what you really want, and I'll pass your demands along to Captain Kirk.”


Dorrad-Sehr's reply was cut off by a hail from Engineering. “Captain,” the officer said, “if we maintain Warp Seven any longer, our ship will explode in a spectacular fireball. We must reduce speed to Warp Five.”


“They'll catch us if we decrease speed, sir,” the female helmsman offered.


“Why don't you just spill your guts to this Earther, Heevna-Por!” The captain replied to his engineer. “Reduce to Warp Five. Communications, send out a request for help from any vessels nearby. We're going to need them in...” Dorrad-Sehr looked at the female helmsman.


“We are going to need them in 16 semis,” which was, according to McCoy's universal translator, eight hours. So, McCoy thought, the ship's only eight hours behind us. Good boy, Jim!
A moment later, the intraship communicator chirped again. This time it was Birret-Vor. “Standing by at Airlock four with one of the Federation crewmembers,” he reported.


Dorrad-Sehr activated the viewscreen, showing his burly security chief and two of his men, holding an enlisted Enterprise crewmember, dressed in a red jumpsuit, between them. The Orion captain turned to McCoy.


“Last chance, Dr. McCoy. I grow tired of waiting for you to cooperate.”


“Damnit man, I told you! I'm not an engineer or a tactical officer! I don't have detailed knowledge about ship's systems, other than what I learned in the Academy, and that information is obsolete now.”


“Wrong answer, Dr. McCoy.” Dorrad-Sehr turned to the viewscreen. “Proceed, Birret-Vor.”


On the viewscreen, the two Orion guards shoved the Federation crewmember into the airlock and then vented him into space. The body was dragged along briefly in the ship's warp bubble until it tumbled into normal space and decelerated.


Dorrad-Sehr turned back to McCoy. “Give the doctor a chair. He's going to be here with us for a while. Birret-Vor, select another prisoner and take him to Airlock 4.”

To be continued...
Title: Re: New Star Trek Fan Fiction Serial: "Scales and Ridges" by Thomas Oakes
Post by: DrPhoton on February 06, 2013, 04:29:59 am
Scales and Ridges, Part 6

by: Thomas Oakes

It didn't take long for Koloth to figure out the Enterprise sensors. “Captain,” he called out. Both Kirk and KadRiQ turned to face him. “I have the ship we're pursuing on long-range sensors. They've reduced speed to Warp Five and are transmitting a coded signal.”

“Can you decode it, Koloth,” Kirk asked.

“He'll decode it, or I'll decode him,” KadRiQ growled.

“If this lovely Nubian female will help me,” Koloth replied, indicating Uhura, “we shall have an answer momentarily.” Koloth approached Uhura, smiling. “Your are so beautiful, my dear Lieutenant. Lovelier ears I have never seen nor nibbled upon.”

Uhura shot Koloth a look that could have melted duranium. “Try it, Mister, and I'll put my boot up your–”

“Keptins,” Chekov interrupted – fortuitously, Kirk thought. “I em peeking up five more pirate wessels on long-range sensors. They are on an intercept course with the wessel we are following. Three of them will reach the enemy wessel before we can catch it at present speed. The other two are about five hours away.”

“Are they same ships that ambushed us,” KadRiQ demanded.

“They are steel too far away to tell, Keptin,” Chekov replied, “but as Meester Spock would say, 'it seems a logical dewelopment'.”

“And I thought I had a hard time with their language,” KadRiQ muttered. The Klingon captain turned to Kirk. “Can your ship take on four pirate raiders at once?”

Kirk rubbed his chin. “I'm not crazy about those odds, especially running a skeleton crew.”

“Then why don't we attack those other ships before they reach the target to even the odds,” KadRiQ suggested.

“They may not have been part of the original raiding party,” Kirk replied. “We don't know their intentions.”

“Does it matter,” KadRiQ demanded. “Their warp cores will still explode as colorfully against the blackness of space!”

“Maybe we won't have to deal with them all at once,” Kirk mused. “Mr. DeSalle, what's our current speed?”

The helmsman turned to face Kirk. “We're at Warp Six point four, sir, and closing on target.”

Kirk punched the intercom. “Kirk to Engineering. Scotty, can you give me Warp Eight?”

“Aye, Captain,” the Scotsman replied unenthusiastically, “but my engines can only support a few high-speed charges across the quadrant. Sir.”

“As usual, you're a miracle-worker, Mr. Scott. Kirk out.” Kirk jabbed his finger down on the intercom button and turned to DeSalle. “Take us to Warp Eight.”

Koloth raised his eyebrows. “My dear Captain Kirk, your ship is quite fast. Our own ship would never be able to attain and hold Warp Eight.”

Kirk just smiled and shrugged.

Koloth swiveled to face Uhura. “Tell me, Lieutenant, are human females as fast as Federation starships?”

“Why don't you come over here and see how fast I can wrap this chair around your neck, Mister,” Uhura said.

KadRiQ chuckled at his first officer's expense. Moving over to stand beside Kirk, he said, “During the mating ritual, Klingon females bite, scratch, hit, kick, shout and throw things. Until now, I had always assumed that human females were soft and delicate.”

“Oh no, Captain,” Kirk replied. “Human females can be wild and ferocious when they want to be.”

KadRiQ appraised Kirk. “It seems true,” the Klingon captain replied. “Kirk, you have quite a reputation as a ladies' man. Tell me, how have you avoided being scarred?”

“Armored pyjamas,” Kirk replied, to chuckles around the Bridge. “Time to intercept, Mr. DeSalle?”

DeSalle consulted his board. “Just under a hundred minutes, Captain, if they don't alter course.”

“Captain, I've decoded the pirate transmission,” Uhura reported. “It is a distress signal, using a specialized frequency not generally used by Orions.”

“Cowards,” KadRiQ roared. “They are calling for reinforcements by their thieving friends. What more proof do you require, Kirk?”

“That's good enough for me, KadRiQ,” Kirk replied. “Chekov, how close is the nearest pirate vessel?”

“Captain, I'm picking up another subspace transmission from the target vessel,” Uhura reported.
Chekov responded. “Keptin, all the wessels are changing course. They are now on a direct heading for the Betreka Nebula.”

“Slithering Ha'DIbaH,” KadRiQ spat. “We could all grow old looking for them in there!”

“Perhaps we won't have to, Captain,” Kirk mused. “Uhura, open a channel to the Aldebaran Colony.”

“I don't understand what you're doing, Kirk,” KadRiQ commented.

“The governor of the Federation colony on Aldebaran III was an officer aboard the ship my father served on when it was destroyed,” Kirk explained.

“Captain,” Uhura announced, “frequency established. I have Captain April online for you.”

“On screen, Lieutenant,” Kirk replied. On the viewscreen, the image of a fit, slightly graying human male in his early seventies appeared.

“Jim,” April said warmly, “how long has it been?”

“Too long, Uncle Bob, too long,” Kirk replied.

Chekov glanced at DeSalle, mouthing “Uncle?”

“What can I do for you, Jim,” April asked.

“Bob, I understand you've had some recent problems with Orion raiding parties,” Kirk said.

“You can say that again, Jim. For the past 18 months or so, freighters passing through the area have been regularly targeted by pirates, and before we got in Starfleet planetary reinforcements out here, we were also subjected to regular and frequent pirate raids. They've let up on us here, but freighters are still getting hit. Starfleet has assigned us an old destroyer, like the one your father and I served on, but a single starship can't be everywhere at once.”

“Bob, by chance, have you been able to track the pirate ships' comings and goings?”

“We have been able to track most of them, but the information has been of only limited value. You see, they hit us or a freighter, and then run for the Betreka nebula, which as you know, is less than a twelfth of a parsec from us. They only thing we can tell for certain is that they seem to use the same entry and exit point. What's up?”

“We're chasing half a dozen Orion ships that ambushed us and a Klingon ship and stole most of the crew from both vessels. I'd be grateful if you could send us the telemetry.”

“Consider it done, Jim. And if you need some backup, I'll put the U.S.S. Pompeii at your disposal. Her captain is a fine officer; he's up for promotion, and word is, he's going to be given command of the Constellation when she finishes her space trials.”
Title: Re: New Star Trek Fan Fiction Serial: "Scales and Ridges" by Thomas Oakes
Post by: DrPhoton on March 04, 2013, 03:04:08 am
Scales and Ridges, Part 7

by: Thomas Oakes

On the Purloiner, the female helm officer, Heevna-Por, turned to the captain. “We are now on course for the Betreka Nebula at Warp Five. The Federation ship has accelerated beyond Warp Eight, but they won't reach us before we enter the nebula.”

“Excellent,” Captain Dorrad-Sehr responded. He turned back to McCoy. “Now, Doctor,” he said, leaning back in his chair, “shall we see who among your crew will be the next to take a stroll in open space? I believe you Earthers call it 'EVA'.”

McCoy was not amused. “Extra-Vehicular Activity does not refer to murder,” the doctor spat.

Dorrad-Sehr waved his hand. “Whatever, Dr. McCoy. You can put a stop to it simply by cooperating.”

McCoy tried to stand but was forced back into his chair by one of the burly security guards. “I told you I don't have the answers to your questions. What do you want me to do? Lie?”

Dorrad-Sehr ignored McCoy's outburst, instead thumbing the intercom to re-establish communication with his security chief at airlock four. “Birret-Vor, are you ready with the next crewman?”

Birret-Vor, his face half covered in stone and metal lancets piercings, roughly jerked a gold-shirted officer into view. “This one fancies himself a swordsman,” the Orion security chief commented, “so it should be most amusing to see him practice his Kendo thrusts in a vacuum.”

“Very well,” Dorrad-Sehr replied, “you may proceed when –”

“Wait,” McCoy nearly shouted, desperate to prevent Sulu from being spaced. “That one is the Enterprise helm officer and a member of the senior staff. Bring him up here. He'll have the information you're after.”

“Hold on a moment, Birret-Vor,” the Orion captain commanded. “Dr. McCoy, your ship's helmsman bears the rank of lieutenant, while you are a lieutenant commander. How can it be that he knows more about your ship than you do?”

McCoy shrugged off the hand that was keeping his plastered in his seat. “I told you, Captain. I'm a doctor, not a Bridge officer. Mr. Sulu is a member of the command staff; knowing all ship's details is part of his job.”

Dorrad-Sehr thought for a moment. “How do I know that Mr. Sulu won't simply refuse to disclose the information, as you have done?”

“Because I outrank him, and I'll order him to answer all your questions.”
Dorrad-Sehr considered McCoy's proposal. “Very well, Doctor. We will put our questions to Mr. Sulu, but I warn you, if he is not forthcoming, you will take his place at the airlock.” The Orion captain relayed his new orders to Birret-Vor, who arrived moments later with Sulu in tow.

An additional chair was provided and Sulu was shoved down into it. “Dr. McCoy,” the Enterprise helmsman asked, “are you all right?”

Dorrad-Sehr answered in the doctor's place. “He is fine, so far, but he won't stay that way for long if you do not cooperate, Mr. Sulu.”

Sulu continued to address McCoy. “What does he want?”

“He wants detailed information about sensor specifications and weaponry on the Enterprise. If you don't tell him, he will continue spacing members of our crew, one by one,” McCoy explained.

“Beginning with the good Doctor,” Dorrad-Sehr added.

Sulu was aghast. “Doc, you know I can't give him that information!”

McCoy adopted his sternest expression. “You can and you will, Sulu. That's an order. I will not have any more deaths on my conscience.”

Sulu seemed to consider McCoy's order and then acquiesced. “All right, Captain. What do you want to know?”

“Describe the armament and sensor package on the Enterprise,” Dorrad-Sehr, replied, repeating his earlier demand.

Sulu sighed. “The Enterprise is the second in a new class of ships of the line, and it is equipped with three major sensor suites, the most powerful of which is the long-range array.”

“I'm listening,” Dorrad-Sehr responded.

“The long-range array uses both active and passive sensor scans, with a maximum effective range of over five light years at maximum resolution. If resolution is reduced, the range can be extended to up to 17 light years. Sensor scan pulses travel at faster than Warp 15 and are immune to jamming by any known technology in the quadrant.”

“So,” Dorrad-Sehr concluded, “they can detect life forms at considerable range.” This was not a question.

“Detect and positively identify,” Sulu reported. “What's this all about?”

“You have been forthcoming with me, Lieutenant, so I will answer your question. We were wondering how the Enterprise managed to select our ship out of a total of six that hit you. Now we know. Next, Mr. Sulu, I want to know about Enterprise weaponry.”

“The primary hull of the Enterprise is equipped with twelve dorsal and ventral pulse phaser banks, capable of continuous, rapid fire of bolts ranging in power up to 500 petajoules. The ship also has lateral and aft phaser banks. Its heavy weapons consist of 250 magnetirap, Mark III photon torpedoes. The ship is also equipped with fourth generation deflector shields, which are twice as powerful as the previous version.”

Dorrad-Sehr looked shell-shocked. “So, Starfleet has gone into the business of producing dreadnoughts,” the Orion captain reflected. “So much for the peace-loving Federation!”

“It was felt that a stronger class of starships was needed after Nero's attack in the 2230s,” Sulu explained. “Only the Enterprise prevented him from destroying Earth on Stardate 2258.43.”

McCoy jumped into the conversation. “Something tells me that your ship is no match for the Enterprise.”

“Quite right, Doctor,” Dorrad-Sehr replied. “Your ship would make very quick work of us. Fortunately, we're on course to rendezvous with a fleet. We'll see how well the Enterprise can defend itself with a skeleton crew against those odds.”

McCoy and Sulu were taken back to their respective holding cells, while Dorrad-Sehr made preparations to ambush the Federation flagship.

* * * * *

In a small holding cell by himself, Commander Spock completed a series of Vulcan meditations, then moved over to a spot on the wall, on the other side of which an Orion guard stood watch. Spock pressed his fingers against the wall and entered a trance-like state, willing his consciousness to reach out and meld with the other mind in close proximity.

After a moment, he successfully made contact and began to impose his will on the Orion guard. Suddenly, Spock was hit with waves and waves of intense pain, traveling along his nerves to all points of his body. At the same time, the Orion screamed in anguish, bringing two more guards running to assist.

Unable to withstand the pain any longer, Spock broke the meld and sagged against the wall, his breathing ragged. His attempt at mind-melding had caused both him and the Orion guard to feel searing pain, which continued to intensify until the connection was broken.

One of the guards that arrived to help his comrade stood at the door to the cell and lowered the force field. “You, Vulcan,” he said, “try a stunt like that again, and you'll be vaporized.” The guard pointed his disruptor at Spock and fired, stunning the Vulcan into unconsciousness.

The Orion guard turned to his comrade. “Go to the infirmary, and tell the medic we need a sedative strong enough to keep a Vulcan unconscious.”

Scales and Ridges, Part 8

by: Thomas Oakes

Kirk avoided choking on his first sip of raktajino, though his face froze momentarily until he could muster up the will to swallow the strong Klingon beverage. “That's some coffee,” he croaked, casting a smile at DeSalle, whose cup was frozen scant centimeters from his mouth.

KadRiq took a gulp of the Klingon coffee. “Yes,” he replied, “your food slots surprisingly do it justice. Shame we can't program more Klingon recipes into it, but replicated gagh is just plain nasty.”

“Perish the thought,” Kirk responded, rolling his eyes. “It must be terrible having to eat human food.” The Bridge crew was taking a short meal break in the Mess Hall until the ship was on final approach to the Betreka Nebula, leaving Chekov as the temporary duty officer.

“Why do humans prefer their food dead, Captain?” This from  Koloth.

Dr. M'Benga, the only remaining physician on board, fielded the question. “Well, humans ate their food uncooked and sometimes even live a few millennia ago, but cooking was discovered as a way of reducing food-borne illnesses and enhancing flavor.”

“Mmm,” KadRiQ grunted, biting off a chunk of his sandwich, which was made from the breast of a Rigellian Tinga fowl. Wiping a glob of mayonnaise off his lips with the back of his hand, the Klingon captain waved his sandwich before him. “This bird may be dead, but it has a certain flavor. The first time I tried human food, back on Earth, I was disgusted. But after a few weeks, I developed a taste for it.”

“At least we give our food a merciful and quick death, Captain,” Kirk explained. “I hear that Romulans bore their food to death first.”

“Yes,” KadRiQ chuckled, “that is the Romulan way, in cuisine, courtship, and combat!”

“At least we shall not starve to death, Captain,” Koloth added.

The bosun's whistle shrilled to life, followed by Chekov's voice. “Bridge to Keptin. Ve are ten minutes away from entering ze nebula.”

Four minutes later, Kirk and his entourage stepped onto the Enterprise Bridge and took their respective stations. “Mr. DeSalle, take us out of warp at thirty light seconds to nebula entry and engage the impulse engines at half speed.”

“Yes, Captain Kirk,” DeSalle answered, making the relevant calculations on his board.

“Kirk, are we just going to walk into the nebula,” KadRiQ demanded. “This is a trap. They know what our entry point will be if we do not change course!”
“You're right, Captain,” Kirk replied, “and I'm counting on it. However, I expect them to ambush us a little further in, when they've got their reinforcements. I doubt they'll take us on one to one.”

“Sound analysis, my dear Captain Kirk,” Koloth commented.

“Thank you, my dear Commander Koloth,” Kirk replied. The Klingon executive officer was starting to get on his nerves.

“Slowing to half impulse, Captain,” DeSalle reported, as the star field visible through the viewing screen lost its surreal warp effect.

“Very good, DeSalle. Lieutenant Uhura, hail the Pompeii, code two, on viewer. I want to make sure we're still synchronized.”

“Hailing frequencies opened, Captain,” Uhura replied.

A moment later, the image of a middle-aged man with hazel eyes filled the viewscreen. “Matt Decker here, Jim. Is our plan still a go?”

“It is, Matt. We'll rendezvous at the agreed-upon point in four hours. Will you be able to get there in time? This nebula's got an awful lot of turbulence for an Einstein-class ship to handle.”

“We'll be there, Jim. These Orions have got to be stopped once and for all!”

“All right, Matt, we'll see you there. We'll be glad to have your firepower to add to our own.”

“Agreed. Pompeii out.”

Seconds later, the Enterprise entered the swirling, multicolored, interstellar cloud of dust, planetary fragments and ionized gases.

“Bring our sensors up to 110%, Commander Koloth, and sound Red Alert” Kirk ordered.

Koloth's hands played across Spock's science station like a concert pianist. “Sensors now at ten points above full power, my dear Captain Kirk. I do believe this ship can see in the dark.” The Red Alert klaxon blared for a few seconds and the ship's lighting shifted to red.”

“Let us hope that you can as well, Koloth, because if any Orion ships sneak up on us, the only thing you'll be seeing is my teeth your throat,” KadRiQ rumbled.

Kirk raised his eyebrows, at which KadRiq explained sotto voce. “Kirk, among Klingons, it is necessary to snarl and bare your teeth. If I did not, Koloth or one of my other men would cut out my heart and eat it while he stood over my lifeless body.”

“How do you treat your best officers?”

“That is how we treat our best, Kirk. Koloth is my best friend, yet he would kill me if I showed any sign of weakness.”

Uhura turned to face Kirk. “All decks report battle ready, Captain.”

“Deflector shields are non-functional, Captain,” DeSalle reported. “Phasers are armed and ready, and both forward and aft torpedo bays are loaded.”

“Thank you, Mr. DeSalle. Prepare to change course to 147 mark 63, three-quarters impulse power.”

“Aye, sir.”

“At that speed, Captain Kirk,” Koloth reported, “it will be almost impossible to detect enemy ships until we are upon them – or they us.”

“I'm wagering they won't expect us to take this course, Commander, but even if they do, it is unlikely more than one of their ships will be in position to do anything about it.”

“Captain,” Uhura cut in, “without shields and running only a skeleton crew, aren't we in danger of being boarded?”

KadRiQ beat Kirk to the punch. “Lieutenant, their transporters will not work in the nebula, and if they try to grapple shuttlecraft onto the hull, we'll see them and have our men in position to repel.”

Kirk nodded and smiled, unaware that his course change had been observed by one of the Orion raiders, which even now was tracking the Enterprise from a positive 20,000 meters relative on the Z axis.

To be continued..
Title: Re: New Star Trek Fan Fiction Serial: "Scales and Ridges" by Thomas Oakes
Post by: DrPhoton on March 11, 2013, 09:29:21 am
Scales and Ridges, Part 8

by: Thomas Oakes

Kirk avoided choking on his first sip of raktajino, though his face froze momentarily until he could muster up the will to swallow the strong Klingon beverage. “That's some coffee,” he croaked, casting a smile at DeSalle, whose cup was frozen scant centimeters from his mouth.

KadRiq took a gulp of the Klingon coffee. “Yes,” he replied, “your food slots surprisingly do it justice. Shame we can't program more Klingon recipes into it, but replicated gagh is just plain nasty.”

“Perish the thought,” Kirk responded, rolling his eyes. “It must be terrible having to eat human food.” The Bridge crew was taking a short meal break in the Mess Hall until the ship was on final approach to the Betreka Nebula, leaving Chekov as the temporary duty officer.

“Why do humans prefer their food dead, Captain?” This from  Koloth.

Dr. M'Benga, the only remaining physician on board, fielded the question. “Well, humans ate their food uncooked and sometimes even live a few millennia ago, but cooking was discovered as a way of reducing food-borne illnesses and enhancing flavor.”

“Mmm,” KadRiQ grunted, biting off a chunk of his sandwich, which was made from the breast of a Rigellian Tinga fowl. Wiping a glob of mayonnaise off his lips with the back of his hand, the Klingon captain waved his sandwich before him. “This bird may be dead, but it has a certain flavor. The first time I tried human food, back on Earth, I was disgusted. But after a few weeks, I developed a taste for it.”

“At least we give our food a merciful and quick death, Captain,” Kirk explained. “I hear that Romulans bore their food to death first.”

“Yes,” KadRiQ chuckled, “that is the Romulan way, in cuisine, courtship, and combat!”

“At least we shall not starve to death, Captain,” Koloth added.

The bosun's whistle shrilled to life, followed by Chekov's voice. “Bridge to Keptin. Ve are ten minutes away from entering ze nebula.”

Four minutes later, Kirk and his entourage stepped onto the Enterprise Bridge and took their respective stations. “Mr. DeSalle, take us out of warp at thirty light seconds to nebula entry and engage the impulse engines at half speed.”

“Yes, Captain Kirk,” DeSalle answered, making the relevant calculations on his board.

“Kirk, are we just going to walk into the nebula,” KadRiQ demanded. “This is a trap. They know what our entry point will be if we do not change course!”
“You're right, Captain,” Kirk replied, “and I'm counting on it. However, I expect them to ambush us a little further in, when they've got their reinforcements. I doubt they'll take us on one to one.”

“Sound analysis, my dear Captain Kirk,” Koloth commented.

“Thank you, my dear Commander Koloth,” Kirk replied. The Klingon executive officer was starting to get on his nerves.

“Slowing to half impulse, Captain,” DeSalle reported, as the star field visible through the viewing screen lost its surreal warp effect.

“Very good, DeSalle. Lieutenant Uhura, hail the Pompeii, code two, on viewer. I want to make sure we're still synchronized.”

“Hailing frequencies opened, Captain,” Uhura replied.

A moment later, the image of a middle-aged man with hazel eyes filled the viewscreen. “Matt Decker here, Jim. Is our plan still a go?”

“It is, Matt. We'll rendezvous at the agreed-upon point in four hours. Will you be able to get there in time? This nebula's got an awful lot of turbulence for an Einstein-class ship to handle.”

“We'll be there, Jim. These Orions have got to be stopped once and for all!”

“All right, Matt, we'll see you there. We'll be glad to have your firepower to add to our own.”

“Agreed. Pompeii out.”

Seconds later, the Enterprise entered the swirling, multicolored, interstellar cloud of dust, planetary fragments and ionized gases.

“Bring our sensors up to 110%, Commander Koloth, and sound Red Alert” Kirk ordered.

Koloth's hands played across Spock's science station like a concert pianist. “Sensors now at ten points above full power, my dear Captain Kirk. I do believe this ship can see in the dark.” The Red Alert klaxon blared for a few seconds and the ship's lighting shifted to red.”

“Let us hope that you can as well, Koloth, because if any Orion ships sneak up on us, the only thing you'll be seeing is my teeth your throat,” KadRiQ rumbled.

Kirk raised his eyebrows, at which KadRiq explained sotto voce. “Kirk, among Klingons, it is necessary to snarl and bare your teeth. If I did not, Koloth or one of my other men would cut out my heart and eat it while he stood over my lifeless body.”

“How do you treat your best officers?”

“That is how we treat our best, Kirk. Koloth is my best friend, yet he would kill me if I showed any sign of weakness.”

Uhura turned to face Kirk. “All decks report battle ready, Captain.”

“Deflector shields are non-functional, Captain,” DeSalle reported. “Phasers are armed and ready, and both forward and aft torpedo bays are loaded.”

“Thank you, Mr. DeSalle. Prepare to change course to 147 mark 63, three-quarters impulse power.”

“Aye, sir.”

“At that speed, Captain Kirk,” Koloth reported, “it will be almost impossible to detect enemy ships until we are upon them – or they us.”

“I'm wagering they won't expect us to take this course, Commander, but even if they do, it is unlikely more than one of their ships will be in position to do anything about it.”

“Captain,” Uhura cut in, “without shields and running only a skeleton crew, aren't we in danger of being boarded?”

KadRiQ beat Kirk to the punch. “Lieutenant, their transporters will not work in the nebula, and if they try to grapple shuttlecraft onto the hull, we'll see them and have our men in position to repel.”

Kirk nodded and smiled, unaware that his course change had been observed by one of the Orion raiders, which even now was tracking the Enterprise from a positive 20,000 meters relative on the Z axis.

To be continued
Title: Re: New Star Trek Fan Fiction Serial: "Scales and Ridges" by Thomas Oakes
Post by: Scottish Andy on August 16, 2013, 01:13:33 pm
Part 2

Nice arrival by the Orions; perfectly executed piece of thievery.