DISTRESS CALL

Everything was going as planned, the deuterium arrived on time and was shipped and stored into the holds of the Freighter Carrier Asgard as expected. It was mostly a routine day.

Mr. Ebry, the freighter captain started his morning by entering the bridge and taking his seat in the command chair. He was immediately handed a cup of coffee by one of his assistants, which had been the routine for the last three years.

A smile appeared on his face as he sipped the warm beverage. He felt warmth spread throughout his body and his drowsy mind began to wake up. “Nothing like a hot cup of coffee…eh?” He questioned, and his crew responded in chorus, “during a long boring trek between star systems.”

He gave a short chuckle, “Have I said that phrase a time or two?” A mix of laughter and murmurs of agreement reverberated among the bridge.

The ship departed and was nearly two days out of space dock before they encountered something out of the ordinary.

 “Pardon me, Captain, but I am receiving a distress call.” Reported one of the bridge officers.  “It appears to be coming from a nearby system.”

“Adjust course, we must follow protocol and respond.” The captain stated stoically. While this was not something that they encountered often, it was important to respond.

USS ADVENTURE

Long before R’Tor and his crew took on an undercover mission, they had to give their new Aquarius Class starship a shakedown cruise. While he was more comfortable standing in front of a judge and jury, R’Tor was starting to enjoy this new experience of being in command.

He had taken the bridge officer track at the academy, but never know this is where he would end up. I guess, you never know where your life will lead when serving in Star Fleet. He thought to himself.

Starting off on a small ship was fine for R’Tor, he did not want to bite off more than he could  chew. He also did not get to choose his crew, they were handpicked for their upcoming special assignment.

Colt, the chief engineer had taken the Ops station to make a few adjustments, when he noticed a strange signal. He frowned in confusion. “What the heck?”

R’Tor’s ears perked up, “Something the matter?” He paused briefly to remember the officer’s name, as they had only met the day before. Chief Petty Officer Brian David Colt II was one of a dozen officers that R’Tor was still getting to know, but in the short term they had both concluded that his name was a bit long.

“Colt.” He stated quickly remembering the shorted version of the chief’s name.

Fist Officer, Commander Mark Russell stepped over to the operations console to see what was concerning Colt. To R’Tor, Russell was one of those officers who wanted things to run perfectly, and he tended to be as inflexible as a Vulcan. In the few conversations they had, R’Tor knew he would have his work cut out for him to try and develop a good working relationship.

“Report Chief.” Russell stated in his authoritative tone.

Colt’s eyes slid sideways, and he cleared his throat, indicating to the commander that while he holds a higher rank, using that tone of voice with the chief of the boat was not going to be tolerated.

Russell was taken a back for a moment. And the two locked eyes to see which one was going to stand down.

R’Tor leaned forward in his chair, “Chief, what do  you have for us?”

“It appears to be a priority one distress signal but let me try and clean it up.”  He looked over the console and then he made the message appear on the view-screen.

R’Tor sat back in surprise as the message appeared on the screen. They were looked at the bridge of another ship. It looked to be taking heavy damage. As the screen shook, flashing emergency lights and explosions were mixed with high-pitched emergency alarms. That is when the face of a wild man appeared on the screen.

He looked quickly around the bridge, before turning back to his screen. His eyes were fill with fear and his face was smeared with blood.

“This is Captain Ebry….[static]…[garbled] …Freighter … [static] Asgard…

“Hey chief, can you clean up that signal ?”  came the abrupt order from R’Tor.

“On it now sir.” The XO started to stand up, but R’Tor’s large sapphire eyes blazed with furry at him. Giving him notice that the chief needs to be left alone to focus.

“That should do it.” Colt announced.

Then Captain Ebry’s voice cover over the coms, shaky and concerned. “This is a priority one distress call to any vessel in the area, this is the Freighter Carrier Asgard.”

His image became distorted as a console on the screen exploded in a white flash of light followed by sparks and smoke. While the message was still a bit wobbly, it was clearly a call for help.  The view of the bridge and condition of the captain showed the freighter was taking damage and needed immediate help.

“Adjust heading, we need to render assistance.”  R’Tor took a moment and watched as his crew started to take on a more serious tone. “Maximum warp….hit it.”

The small ship took off like a shot and with a flash of light, it was racing toward unknown danger, in hopes of helping another ship in trouble.  After exactly three minutes at warp, the order was given to drop out of warp speed.  R’Tor did not know what they would fly into, and wanted to avoid any surprises. The inertial dampeners kept everyone stable as the ship returned to normal space.

Scanners identified the coordinates of a simple star system that held a half dozen planets and small moons, as well as an asteroid belt.

“Any signs of the freighter?” The captain wanted to know.

“Negative.” Came the response from one of the stations behind him.

The first officer looked at his console. “Captain, I suggest scanning for deuterium, because that is what that freighter was carrying.”

R’Tor gave a nod to the chief, and it did not take long for the response.

“Reading….high quantities of deuterium on the surface of the fourth planet.”  Responded the chief.

Suddenly, the ensign at the ops station reported.  “Captain, I am detecting strange energy readings….”  As the ensign ended the sentence the helm officer reported.  “Sir, we are starting to encounter debris…” At the same time, a call from another officer drew the captain’s attention. “Picking up another distress call!”

There was no time to respond as energy wave reached out from the planet’s surface reached out like a giant hand to attack the ship. With a sound like thunder the ship shook and roaring noise resonated across the hull. Everyone on the bridge knew the moment inertial dampeners failed as they were thrown from their workstations to the floor.

“Report!” R’Tor yelled as he crawled back into his chair.

You could count the heartbeats in the time it took for the officers to gain their composure to report the array of systems that were and were not working. Ultimately, the ship took little damage.

Russell noted that according to readings, the energy wave caused a number of disturbances in the power grid, including the  nacelle skirted an energy field.

“It appears to be an Ion Barrier.” Russell reported.   Colt followed up with his input. “Had our ship been bigger, we would have taken much more damage.

“Did we receive another distress call just before hitting that barrier ?”

The XO looked over his controls, before responding. “Sir, it appears to be a short repeating distress call?”

“Coming from the freighter?” R’Tor replied.

“Negative.” The XO answered, it is a different signal.  But appears to be emanating from the planet’s surface.

The captain pondered the situation and came to a solution. “Colt, can you match our shields to allow us to slip through the Ion Barrier ?”

Colt frowned for a moment, “I am not sure, let me run a few simulations.”  He got to work in inputting all the data and when he had the answer, he brought it to the captain’s attention. Colt explained it in detail, but R’Tor was focused on the fact that it was possible.

R’Tor leaned forward in his chair and ordered a warning buoy to be left behind. He also sent a message to Starfleet informing them of his ship’s location and situation.

LANDING ON THE PLANET

According to all indications, a freighter had crashed on an unexplored planet in a remote and relatively unknown system. A distress call from the freighter had drawn the USS Adventure, only  to encounter a powerful ion barrier. With the freighter, an unrelated signal and the energy source of the barrier all appeared to be coming from the planet. R’Tor was determined to unravel this mystery and the solution was somewhere on the planet’s surface.

R’Tor leaned back in his chair, “Let’s check it out…..Helm prepare for planetary landing.” A sudden hush went around the room. Most officers only ever landed shuttle crafts. While it was rare, there were some ship classes, like the Aquarius, to land and take off from the planet’s surface.

But it still made for some tense moments. Power was diverted to thrusters as the ship coasted across the ion barrier.  The blue lights flashed all over the ship indicating a planetary landing. Engineers scrambled to purge the plasma vents and securer all systems for landing.

The ship orbited the planet once and shuddered as it entered the planet’s atmosphere. There was a flash of an ominous hue as it encountered friction in the declining glide trajectory. Strangely, the location of the crashed freighter and source of the automated distress call were within a few kilometers of each other.

Everyone on the ship were jostled as the ship shook slightly as the landing struts extended while inertial dampers adjusted to match the gravity of the planet. After the engines were disengaged R’Tor and other officers let out a sigh of relief. There was also a bit of excitement for successfully landing the ship for the first time.

ON THE PLANETS SURFACE

With the ship on the ground only a few kilometers from the downed freighter, R’Tor and his first officer chose the team they would take with them to investigate the site. The comm officer brought a concern to the teams’ attention. “Sir, the planet’s atmosphere is ionized and is preventing communications between our comm badges.”

This took them back a bit.  “How is a distress signal coming from the surface ?” The XO voiced what R’Tor was thinking. He gave a shrug as he did not have an answer.

CRASH SIGHT

The landing area was filled with rolling hills with flat plains filled with high grasses.

As the team followed their tri-corder readings, they reached the top of a hill where they could see the remains of the freighter below.

R’Tors ears perked up and his tail flicked as he looked down into the valley and saw a small encampment with small tents and overhangs set up. “Well….I thought there were no life signs.”

Russell responded, “It most likely  has to do with the ionized atmosphere.” And R’Tor and the other officers agreed.

Down below the hill, a small group of people started to gather as they could see the large visage of a large Caitain standing at the top of the hill with a group of individuals in Starfleet uniforms. One of the survivors called to the captain. “Sir, we have visitors!”

As Captain Ebry exited his command tent, the Starfleet officers were arriving in the camp.

“I am Captain R’Tor of the USS Adventure, who is in command here ?

Captain Ebry made himself known and the two captains sat down and discussed their situation.

The survivors of the freighter were excited as they had been stranded for nearly six weeks.

“We traced the emergency signal to a cave about a two kilometers from here.”  Captain Eberly pointed out.

The two teams devised a plan, that most of the freighter survivors would pack up and follow Dr. Valerias, back to the Adventure, while R’Tor, Captain Ebry, Commander Russell and two security officers would attempt to identify the source of the distress call.

The entrance to the cave was dark and damp, but after six meters the walls were smooth, and the team came to a large door. “This is as far as our team reached and we could not open the door.” Captain Eberly stated.

With a word, R’Tor indicated to Colt to give it a go. “No security field, but this door is pretty solid.” He found a power relay hidden behind the control panel. “This is quite advanced.” He noted.

A half hour later there was a rumbling sound as the large locking system released. “Here help me.” Called Colt to others to help him open the door. Even with the locks open, the door was quite heavy and took great effort to open.

Inside, the remains of a ancient command center lay before them. The team scoured the area, and they were able to access the database and discovered that this was what was left of a long dead civilization. According to the records, this civilization was near defeat in a protracted war with another civilization.

They set up this trap for their enemies.

However, their research showed that this system had been shut down for decades. Which explains why this distress call was not detected before. “Why is it functional now?” Captain Eberly wanted to know.

“It appears that recent seismic activity caused a power surge, because the facility was powered by geothermal energy.”

PULLING THE PLUG

“Lets do what we need to do to prevent anyone else from falling into this trap.” R’Tor noted.
“We can send a science team to deal with the rest of it.”

Since they did not want to destroy  the facility but just disable it, Colt disconnected the power connections and disengaged the system that created interference that prevented the functioning of combadges. Once it was deactivate, R’Tor’s combadge chirped.

“Adventure to Captain R’Tor.” Came the message.  “Go ahead.” He responded.

“According to our systems, transporters are online and we can beam you and most of  the deuterium aboard.”

Colt was excited, “Well, that will sure save us a walk.” He beamed.

R’Tor laughed, “What you have a problem with a little hike.”

Colt thought about it for a moment, “Yes!” he stated with concern.

The team gave a laugh and they were beamed aboard.

The two captains sat in the mess hall and had a short chat.

“I appreciate you saving us.” Captain Eberly explained.

“I am just happy that you and your people are safe.” He explained. However, in the back of his head

he was glad that his ship avoided damage. “In about nine-hours, we will deliver you, your crew and shipment to the nearest starbase.”

“So, your maiden voyage?” Captain Eberly asked. R’Tor gave a nod. “Well, from what I see…your starting off in a good direction.” The freighter captain encouraged him.  “If you ever need my help, let me know and I’ll be there.”  His small pale hand was enveloped by a furry paw.

The USS Adventure departed the planet and paused for a moment as the nacelle glowed and in a flash of light was on its way to their next destination.

Prior to the beginning of Ion storms in the Pulson Nebula

The USS Adventure had completed its undercover mission. They docked at Starbase 157 to debrief. Most of the crew completed their surgery to regain their appearances in just a few hours, but for R'Tor the doctors told him it was going to take an extra day or two for him. 

Since R'Tor needed time to recover, he gave the crew some much needed R&R. Commander Mark Russell caught a transport to Risa, Dr. Val set off for a small Vulcan colony, and Colt decided to explore the trade markets of Japori II. 

As for R'Tor, when the doctors finished the second day he was extraordinarily happy to have his tail reconnected. While he did not doubt the doctor's skill, he tended to flinch each time he twitched his tail too fast. After a few days, he started to believe his tail was not going to fall off. 

CAPTAIN'S LOG STARDATE 74932.29

Starfleet Command contacted me to let me know of a change in our mission. We were initially scheduled to join Task Force 17 in the Delta Quadrant, but now it appears we will remain in the Alpha Quadrant a while longer.  I have not received a full brief yet, however it was suggests that the Adventure will have need of a highly qualified pilot. With that in my, I made a personal request that Starfleet Command was good enough to honor.  I can think of no other person better qualified. He arrives at Starbase 157 later in the day. 

FEBRUARY 3, 2344 - 08:30 STARBASE 157

Edward Clark stepped through the airlock and standing on the other side with his arms crossed as his old friend. “R'Tor!" He stated in surprise as he gave his friend a hug, "How the heck are you?”  With a quick thump on his back the large Caitian showed his appreciation and he turned to escort Clark down the hall. 

As they walked they caught up on the minor details in each others life. “You seem to be a bit surprised to see me.” R'Tor commented. “I take it you did not read your orders.” He continued. 

Ed shook his head in response. “Not really." He shrugged, "Half the time, I just need to know where and when I needed to be.” 

R'Tor responded with a chuckle as he was amused by his friend's lack of attention to detail. He handed him a PADD, “Maybe you should take a look.”

Edward took a few more steps as he read the PADD and then something caught his eye that caused him to stop short. “What the heck?” He called after R'Tor who had continued down the hallway. “Are you kidding?” Watched as his friend's tail flicked back and forth in amusement. R'Tor's laughter resonated as he turned a corner. 

Edward readjusted his duffel bag's strap and jogged after him. “Whats the meaning of this?” He called as he waved the PADD after his friend till he caught up to R'Tor and walked next to him. 

R'Tor stopped and looked over at him, “I had hopped you wouldn't mind, so I pulled a few strings.” And gave a shrug. 

He sighed heavily, knowing his friend had just been trying to help after had a difficult few years. Finally he spoke up. “Well, its  not like we can expect you to command and fly the ship at the same time, can we." 

R'Tor gave a smirk that showed one of his fangs. “Come on, I'll show you the ship.” 

BRIDGE OF THE USS ADVENTURE

R'Tor entered the bridge followed closely by Ensign Edward Clark. “I believe you will find the bridge - cozy.” He purred.  

Edward did not know what to expect, as the Adventure was only about 140 meters long and the smallest vessel he operated was a 23 meter runabout.  He was immediately struck by the compact design. “Cozy?" He stated in mock astonishment. “Not the word I would use.” 

The command chair was in the center of the bridge upon a slightly raised platform and flanked by a small control panel. To starboard there were two stations, one for operations and another was a multi-use console for engineering. Across the bridge on the port side was a tactical station. 

Edward walked to the flight control station, directly forward of the command chair.  He examined the panel, “You think we could make a few adjustments?” 

R'Tor's ears twitched.  “What do you mean?” He asked intrigued by the idea. 

Edward pointed to the console, “Right here, if we expanded the console it could allow the pilot to operate tactical also, it could increase reaction time. He sat down in the flight control seat and showed R'Tor how rearranging the panel would improve performance. 

“Ahhh..” R'Tor thought about it a moment.  He prowled the bridge and mulled over the thought. “I'll have engineering take a look at it. However.” R'Tor interjected, “I would prefer to keep tactical separate.”  

Before Edward could object, R'Tor held his hand up and continue, “Until we have a chance to work out all the….snagss.." 

Edward got out of the flight control station. “Well, buddy.”  He stated while looking around the bridge. “What else you have to show me on this ship?”

“Just this.” He reached into his pocket and handed it to Edward. 

Edward blinked a few times and looked up from his hand.  At first he was speechless. “What?, why?” He asked shaking his head. 

R'Tor crossed his arms. “Because, I am your commanding officer and you deserve it.” 

“I..I…don't know what to say.” Edward was shaken by the generosity of his friend. He looked at the gold pip in his hand. 

With an extended furry hand, R'Tor congratulated Edward. “Welcome to the Adventure, Lieutenant Clark.”

Lt. Clark smile and shook his commander's hand vigorously. 

UPON THE USS ADVENTURE DOCKED AT STARBASE 157

The crew of the Adventure would start returning from shore leave in the next 24 hours. Newly promoted Lt. Edward Clark sat as the comm station reviewing the different evasive patterns already programed in the ship's system and attempted to devise a few of his own. 

A low growl emanated from R'Tor as he rested in his room with subtle music. He had fallen asleep in his favorite chair while reading. 

An alert signaled sounded, followed by The ship's computer voice boomed into the captain's room.  “Priority message coming in from Starfleet Command.” 

 R'Tor woke and reacted with his cat like reflexes, as he dashed to his display to read the message. 

“Oh no!”  He exclaimed. 

(TBC in Time & Squalls Part II). 

Dolon Prime 

M-Class Planet in orbit around a G-type star.

Planetary System

Dolon Prim is the fourth of six planets in the Dolon system. With a mass of 1.21 Earths, it takes 2.5 days to complete one orbit, and is 1.32 AU from its star. Its moon, Eris is a dusty, cold, rock with a very thin atmosphere. This self-sustaining community is a protectorate under the United Federation of Planets. 

History 

Colonized mostly by settlers from Earth 2370, their goal was to set up a semi-agrarian society. The colony is led by a council of elders and continues to prosper….Trade ship, according to regular reports that are sent to a nearby Federation outpost.  

Late 21st century – Planetary bodies is identified as GJ 2929 d in the Pulson Nebula. It would later be named in honor of the astronomer Jacobe Ray Dolon who first observed and studied the planet.  

• 2249 First deep space probes sent to map the Pulson Nebula 
• 2250 GJ 2929 d categorized as being a potential for colonization. 
• 2260 First colony ship arrived with 125 settlers. 
• 2263 Report that colony failed. 
• 2335 Terraforming Team arrives at GJ 2929 d
• 2340 Colony ships arrive from Earth. .
• 2341 Officially recognized as Dolon Prime a protected Federation planet.
• 2366 USS Enterprise-D hid in the nebula from a Borg cube. 
• 2400 Pulson Ion Storm

At the time of colonization, the eastern portion of the Norther Continent was selected as the most hospitable site to initiate the spread of civilization. Accordingly, a centralized community was established upon plateau near the Rubicon River. The small settlement was just waking up when the effects of the Ion storm started to impact the planet. 

MORNING TEA

Each morning for the past ten years Governor Albert Gendrue, a stocky human in his late 50’s, sat upon his porch with a hot cup of tea as the first rays of sunlight spread across the valley. He welcomed the gentle sweetness of apple mixed with honey. Albert enjoyed watching the  dazzling display of colors as the soft pings and light blues played in the clouds as a heavenly purple embraced the distant mountains. 

What had been a calm morning quickly turned into a nightmarish scene. The calm bright colors were replaced by dark rolling blue and gray clouds that belched forth bolts of lightning. Winds whipped up and gusted so hard that some trees bent, and others broke in half. The darkness shook Albert, because while the weather control system allowed rainstorms, he nor any other settlers had seen anything like this. 

WEATHER CONTROL STATION

One of the primary pieces of equipment terraformers installed on Dolan in the mid-22nd century was the weather control system. By the time the first settlers arrived, it allowed them to maintain appropriate seasons for growing and building the settlement.  

When activity from the ion storm first started to impact weather patterns and environment upon the planet. Settlers believed the weather control stations was malfunctioning but eventually they discovered it was something beyond their understanding.

Two days and four hours after the storm first hit, Albert’s porch had been completely destroyed  along with one third of the other buildings in the settlement. As the damage from the storm started to take its toll, settlers began taking shelter in caves not far from the settlement. 

COUNCIL CONFLICT 

Community elders and leaders demanded answers from Albert, but unfortunately, he had none. 

While most of the settlers had taken on less technical occupations, such as farmers and builders, there were only five people who continued to study the stars and have a technological aptitude. 

Within the main cave system, Warren Li the only astrophysics and engineer sat in a makeshift command center with Govern Gendrue. Both men had known each other since they were children, but while Albert showed a bit more of his age, Warren still looked like a vigiours 30 year old. Warren only had 1/3 of Vulcan heritage, but it was enough. 

Albert stalked the room like a caged animal and when he heard the suggestion, he stopped and hissed at Warren. 

“I am sorry, but could you repeat that?”

Warren’s face was calm and stoic. “It I imperative that we send a beacon and call attention to our plight.” He argued. 

“What you are saying is that our only course of action is to call for help, from who?” Albert questioned and then answered on his own. “The Federation, Starfleet…Earth?”

Warren attempted to explain when Albert stopped him. “You know better than that Warren.” He paused and shook his head. “Our parents and grandparents came to this place to get away from the Technocratic society of the Federation.” 

Warren thought for a moment. “Fine.” He stated in defeat. “All that they worked for, and others died for to give to us will end here.” His eyes narrow and he pointed toward the entrance of the cave and his voice rose in anger. “Our settlement, our home is nearly gone.” He stared at Albert as his heart pounded in his chest. “Whatever is happening is bigger than we can imagine or prove from our limited tools.” 

Albert understood the argument and lowered his eyes to stare at the ground for a moment. A  homing beacon, one of the few devices remaining from when settlers first arrived on this planet. 

Hours later after the beacon was launched into space, Starfleet vessels and starbases in the area became aware that someone was calling for help. 

USS ADVENTURE RACING TO THE RESCUE

R’Tor leaned forward in his chair as the USS Adventure raced across the stars. 

Alerts had gone out requesting assistance from all Federation vessels in the area. 

Flying Fur – Part I. 

Starfleet’s continuing mission to go where no one has gone before is embodied by Task Force 47.  Serving in the 47th fleet the USS Adventure and its crew brings a unique brand of character development to supplement the exploration and diplomacy mission. 

Lt. Commander R’tor is a large feline species called Caitian. He looks like a black and white tiger. He commands a small Aquarius class ship called the USS Adventure. He is steadfast in both his friendships and passion for justice. 

First Officer Mark Russell A bold yet cocky and sometimes argumentative first officer.

Edward Clark a born flyer and academy friend to R’tor is the ship’s primary pilot. 

Chief Petty Officer Colt an efficient and energetic technician who is an inquisitive engineer.

Doctor Valerias a medical doctor who’s bedside manner is as cold as her Vulcan logic

MISSION REPORT –  PULSON NEBULA

The USS Adventure landed upon the isolated planet of Dolan Prime within the Pulson Nebula. After meeting with the community, they were able to develop a plan to protect the inhabitants from the century storm. From the perspective of the planet’s surface, highly erratic weather patterns were the result of a failure of a weather control system. 

Prior to landing, the Adventure detected a powerful energy wave moving toward the planet which would have devastating repercussions for the people. With no time or ability to evacuate the people, the inhabitants were relocated to a deep cave system. Additionally, they cannibalize the ship’s shield and deflector array to turn the weather control system into a small deflector shield.  While there were tense moments, this plan shielded the people  throughout the storm. When the storm had passed, the people showed their gratitude  by agreeing to re-connect with the federation. A survey showed portions of the planet suffered damage to its organic systems. For this reason, a mass  replicator unit was left behind to help supplement the food supply for the population.  Only time would tell if the land would recover and sustain them and a larger population.

~end log~

Season 2, Episode 3, “Flying Fur” 

While departing the Pulson Nebula the USS Adventure is hit by a mysterious energy wave which results in an unexpected impact on the crew. They must discover a solution to their predicament or live in an altered state of existence. 

R’tor was just about to give the command to leave orbit when he was hit by a huge sneeze. Not only did it shake him, but it caused a few others on the bridge to jump. R’tor rubbed his nose and leaned forward a gave the order. “Helm, set in a course out of the nebula full impulse.”  He thought inwardly and calculated that it would take about an hour and a half for them to reach the edge of the nebula at that speed.

TWO HOURS LATER

We see the USS Adventure adrift; power levels are erratic, and the crew lay unconscious throughout the ship. First Officer, Commander Mark Russell’s head ached, as he slowly roused from his unfortunate nap. He looked around and noticed the rest of the bridge crew were also beginning to stir. Russell noticed the had attempted to get up, but his legs were wobbly. He helped Clark from the floor and steadied him as he took his station. R’tor remained unconscious. The first officer gave a few quick commands to start repairs and tapped his combadge, “Russell to the doctor, medical emergency on the bridge.” 

The medical bay was little more than a storage closet with two bio beds, or so one medical technician mentioned to Doctor Valerias at one time. Her response was very much in line with her culture. “I see no logical reason for such a classification.” 

Dr. Valerias examined the readings on her tricorder and note that she would need to run additional tests to determine why he had not roused from his slumber when everyone else had. “So far, he has a variant of the Thelusian flu.” She reported to the first officer. “For now, you are in charge.” Mark still had much to learn and his interaction with the crew had been less than amicable.

BRIDGE 

Unfortunately, since many components were left behind on the planet’s surface, navigation shielding would all that could be generated, as noted by the engineering chief. When Mark returned from the medical bay, he reviewed the auxiliary station to  monitor the progress of repairs. Colt entered the bridge; his brow was wet with perspiration. It was no doubt he and his team had been working as fast as they could to get the ship operational again. “Commander, our power systems are back online, we have limited engine power currently, but we are working on it. The commander huffed in frustration, “And unfortunately no warp drive.”  He stated as he rubbed his chin and noticed his face was matching his bristly attitude.  

“How long till we have warp drive back up?” Mark inquired.  Colt crossed his arms and bobbled his head back and forth as he thought about it. “Potentially, three hours.” Mark winced at this calculation, “Well get to it Chief.” He stated in a tone of dismissal.  Colt felt the hairs on the back of his neck raise as he turned. He was still getting adjusted to Mark’s strict attitude, but his tone rankled him. Before Colt exited the bridge, Mark called after him. “Chief.” Colt paused and looked over his shoulder to acknowledge his commanding officer.  “And thank you.”  This was a rare show of courtesy and it caught him off guard. “Umm, ya, your welcome.”  

ENGINE ROOM

Colt had not eaten all day and could feel his stomach complaining. Lucky for him a replicator was located just at the entrance to the engine room. A convenient location to grab a quick snack or beverage while on long duty shifts. He normally would grab a water and sometimes a hot dog, but today he had an odd craving for; “Tuna Fish and cold milk.” The replicator whirred to life  and in the dispenser was a small plate with blot of tuna fish and a small glass of milk. He Looked at it perplexed. This is something I would not eat. He thought to himself, at least not without crackers or even bread. But for some odd reason it looked appetizing. 

His focus on the dish and glass was interrupted when an officer called to him. “Hey Chief!”  Colt looked up to see crewman Tyson and two other technicians huddled around the anti-matter flow regulator. “We are having difficulty realigning the anti-matter intermix flow.”  Colt downed the food and held his finger up to indicate that he was on his way. After drinking down the milk, Colt was ready to work. “Let see what you have.” He stated as he wiped the remaining milk from his upper lip. 

BRIDGE

A Science Officer turned from her console to address the XO. “Sir, according to our readings I’m picking up anomalous radiation readings,” she said, double-checking the computer’s conclusion before voicing it. “Where?” The first officer asked abruptly. The response from the officer did little to alleviate his feelings, “All throughout the ship.” He looked around in surprise and jumped from the command chair and flew over to the station to examine the readings for himself. As he reached over the console Mark noticed blotchy orange spots appearing on his hand. He shook his head an made a mental note to contact the med bay after the current crisis has passed.  

MEDICAL BAY 

A crewman entered the medical bay complaining of blurred vision along with an intense headache. Dr. Valerias directed the crewman to the empty bio bed and scanned him with a medical tricorder. She arched an eyebrow,  because the readings were perplexing. While the tricorder is good for many readings, Valerias decided to use a light source to examine the young man’s eyes. At first glance they reacted normally. When the light was removed, instead of shrinking back to a normal round shaped pupil it became vertical slit. Throughout the ship others were noticing changes also. 

BRIDGE

Mark scratched at a inch behind his head and continued till Clark turned in his chair, “Is there a problem commander ?” Mark stopped and looked up at him. “Wha….what do you mean ?” And he began to scratch at an area on his neck and face. “Umm…you seem to have an issue.” Clark continued and he pointed to the intense itching action. Mark instantly stopped scratching and dismissed it. “It must be some kind of allergic reaction.” Then he moved uncomfortably in his chair. “Maybe you should report to sickbay,” Clark followed up.  With a roll of his eyes Mark dismissed that idea. Clark turned back to his station and could have sworn the XO needed a haircut. 

ENGINEERING

Sarah Lighthorse brushed dark bangs out of her eyes. Normally her hair is kept short and tied back, but it seems her hair worked itself loose. She leaned forward to gain a better view of her screen. Colt began checking in with his team, because he knew Mark would be looking to get an update. As he looked around the engineering bay he noticed two of his crew asleep at their consoles. 

“Hey!” He shouted. Both of them woke with a start. He stared at them and shook his head. “You fall asleep again and I will put you on report.” His gruff growl made him sound more put out then what he was. “Listen, we need to get warp drive back online.” He called as he strolled to his workstation. 

Clark put his index finger against his temple as a piercing pain caused him to wince, suddenly he heard an eerie growl coming from behind him. The bridge went quiet. Clark turned around and his eyes grew wide at the sight. Staring back at him with wild cat like eyes and wearing a Star Fleet uniform. “Commander?” Clark’s voice cracked. The large cat hissed and leaped from the command chair. 

MEDICAL BAY 

Doctor Valeris initially attempted to contact the bridge with no success. She then contacted engineering.  “Doctor Val?” Colt asked confused as he was not expecting her call.  “Have you identified the type of radiation that permeates through the ship?” There was a long pause before Colt replied. “Umm. No, we have been a bit pre-occupied attempting to get the engines back online.” He recommended contacting the bridge. She acknowledged that all attempts to contact the bridge failed. “I’ll have those readings forward to you doctor.” While Colt believed the doctor, he was still required to follow protocol and contact the bridge. 

“Engineering to the bridge?” No response came. Colt did a quick diagnostic of the communication system and found no irregularities. He decided to organize a team to check out the bridge. Before he could do that, a furry blur tackled him. 

Dr. Valerias reviewed her findings and her conclusion seemed logical, but she would have to verify it first. It did not take long for the verification she needed. Clark, with his uniform torn and face bleeding from a gash upon his face staggered into the medical bay and secured the door. “Doctor!” Clark huffed, “Something is happening to the crew. 

Her stoic Vulcan stare did not falter. “Indeed, we are seeing the a form of ionizing radiation directly impacting the structure of DNA and being transformed.  

Flying Fur PART II

Clark scrambled from his station and exited the bridge. Behind him, a large cat-like creature bounded down the hall. The only place Clark could think to go would be the medical bay. He had to continue to dodge the attacks, lest he is killed. 

He had barely made it into the medical bay and slapped the control panel when the cat slammed against the half-open door. 

Its huge claw raked at the empty air as the door fully closed and hissed shut. 

Dr. Valeria reviewed her findings and her conclusion seemed logical. It did not take long for the verification she needed. Clark, with his uniform, torn and face bleeding let out an anguished call. “Doctor!” He called with erratic breathing.  “Something is happening to the crew.” Her stoic Vulcan demeanor did not falter. “Indeed, we are seeing the result of ionizing radiation, most likely from the energy wave we encountered.” 

Before he could ask a follow-up question,  she took hold of his chin with one hand and ran a dermal regenerator over the gashes on his face with the other. Her forcefulness surprised him.  “Actually” the doctor continued, “Approximately 15% percent of the crew are affected.” She looked over his face like admiring a piece of art and then turned to return the tool to its original location and continue “Due to the unique type of radiation, it directly impacted the structure of humanoid DNA.”

Clark waved his arms emphatically toward the door, “Radiation does not explain all of that!” 

Without turning to look at him, she deftly picked up a tricorder and made her way to the captain, who was still unconscious on a bio bed.  “You are correct,” she stated and returned to a stoic silence.

 Logically, we can assume the same reason the captain has not regained consciousness is related to the crew’s transformation. ”How ?” Clark was stunned by this revelation, “I don’t see the connection.” Dr. Valeria tilted her head to the side as she took note of the results.  “The captain caught a rather common flu among his people, and while it does not normally produce issues for any other species, this virus mutated when the radiation from energy wave hit the ship.” 

She paused and set the tricorder down. Pounding shook the door and Clark jumped. “Is there anything we can do?” 

He asked and moved away from the doorway. “There is nothing you can do, but I have to devise an antidote.”  Clark was unfazed by her gruff demeanor. “What about the rest of the crew?” A loud thumping and scratching at the door caused him to flinch again.  “And those doors won’t last for long.  She gave him a long look. “Logic states, ‘Insufficient facts always invite danger.’

“For now the rest of the crew must fend for themselves, as for the rest, I shall endeavor to complete my tasks with great efficiency.” 

Elsewhere on the hip Sarah Lighthorse along with a half dozen other crew took refuge inside of a Jefferies tube, Colt their former Engineering Chief had gone berserk. One minute he and other engineers were recalibrating the matter – antimatter flow a half-heartbeat later he transformed into a hairy beast. The resulting chaos sent the crew scrambling for safety. As the cat creature took after several technicians it crashed into the power control station and damaged several systems. 

In another part of the ship two security officers grappled with a transformed Lt. Jones to protect a third officer from being mauled to death. Together they were successful in dragging it down the hall. “Computer activate forcefield corridor 7-25.” One of the security officers called out a moment later a light blue wall of energy flared to life. The security officers gave each other a quick nod and they pushed the beast into the forcefield knocking it unconscious. 

MEDICAL BAY 

Dr. Valeria held up a vial of blue liquid. “Part 1 is complete, now we need a subject to test it upon.” 

Clark looked at her in disbelief, “And how do you expect us to get one?” Her eyes move from the vial to fall upon him. 

“Oh no!” He began when phaser fire from the hallway sounded.  The medical bay doors slid open and two security officers drug a large cat creature wearing a  tattered command uniform into the room.  

“Well…I guess that answers that.” Quipped Clark. 

With two test subjects, Dr. Valeria was able to extrapolate an antidote for the captain. With the captained cured, his blood was used to devise a solution to revert the transformed the officers and crew back to normal. Over next few hours those who were trapped and or hiding were freed. The engineers went back to work and got the ship operational. 

Many crew, injured and curious made their way to the medical bay. 

R’tor woke and his eyes slide from side to side as he looked around in confusion. 

“What’s going on?” He asked as he sat up. 

At his side Dr. Valeria, Clark, Sara Lighthorse and a disheveled looking First Officer all breathed a sigh of relief. 

“Hummm…Looks like our medical bay has become the new watering hole,” R’tor commented. 

Someone let out a little laugh. “Welcome back captain.” Dr. Valeria greeted him. 

“Thanks…?” He stated but wanted to know more. “Report.” 

Clark smirked, “You were sick, sir.”

“And…?” R’tor  asked as he crossed his arms. 

“We just had a bit of a…cat-as-trophe.”  

~end~