“What do you mean my ship is being decommissioned?” Azras said looking at Commodore Jori with confusion written all over her face as she sat there at her desk trying to process what she had been told. She began to wonder if something had happened that she wasn’t aware of while she was on Trill. She was currently onboard the USS Oneida heading back to Starbase 93 where the Saratoga was currently docked at one of the drydocks.

Jori could see the concern and confusion on Azras face, she knew that she wouldn’t take this very well. “She sustained extensive damage that would take months to repair, I’ll send you the report from the engineers.” Jori replied looking at the older Trill, “instead we will be assigning you to the new USS Saratoga, an Obena-class explorer. She’s just as capable as the Odyssey,” Jori replied looking at her somberly.

She sat there looking off into the bleak of the room, processing what she was hearing. She would have to read the report after she was finished, the Obena-class resembled that of an Excelsior-class but yet bigger. It was still a sought-after capital ship, though just not on the magnitude of the Odyssey. Shaking her head to bring her back to the present, “does the crew know yet?” Azras finally asked breaking the silence that once filled the room.

“Yes,” Jori replied “she is already at Starbase 93 waiting for you to arrive, they should have already transferred over. They are just waiting on you,” Jori replied as they were informed a few days prior. She just didn’t want to bother Azras while she was still dealing with personal things.

She was surprised that her crew all knew before her but she brushed that aside as she figured she didn’t want to disturb her while she was on leave. “Understood,” Azras replied with a sigh. “Is there anything else?” Azras asked as she adjusted in her chair looking at the Commodore.

“No not..,” Jori replied before pausing as she knew she was forgetting something. “I just about forgot to mention that the USS Knight an Edison-class under the command of Commander Rayu Isha will be assigned to your squadron as well.” She said with a smile as Azras nodded in understanding. “Again sorry about the Saratoga, she will continue to carry on its legacy.” She said before the screen went black.

Azras sat there as they traveled toward Starbase 93, she was still processing everything that the commodore had told her. Standing up from her chair she walked over to the small window looking out as they traveled at warp. Stars streaked by at a rapid rate, she knew change was always possible she had been on many different ships over the years. This would be no different, though she was glad that the name stayed the same.

Walking back over to her chair she sat down and brought up the report from the station’s maintenance engineers had to say about the damages to the previous Saratoga. She raised an eyebrow, there seemed to be a huge malfunction of the shielding system and the damage was extensive. After she read the report she closed it out and sat there until the chirp of the comm channel went off and a few moments later the ship dropped out of warp.

“Sir we have arrived at Starbase 93,” Ensign Sato replied.

“Thank you,” Azras said as she walked out onto the bridge as the USS Saratoga came into view. The new Obena-class ship was a beautiful class to behold, “welcome to our new home.” Azras replied as Sato looked at her for a moment.

“Indeed,” Emily replied.

It had been a few weeks since the change in ship class for the Saratoga, everyone seemed to be settling in and getting used to their new posting. Though things were still comfortable and the ship had a lot of amenities though it wouldn’t be the same as the Odyssey-class was. The ship was busy as they were currently sitting at Starbase 38 above Barzan II along with the Gagarin and the Knight gathering supplies.

Azras was sitting in her ready room going over the latest intelligence reports of the Lost Fleet, her head was hurting. She thought she would never live to see the Dominion again, let alone displaced ones who seemed to have occupied the Deneb sector. To see that FNN is calling this nothing but a Breen skirmish and Starfleet Command refusing to acknowledge this for what it was. It was Fleet Admiral Teylas Ramar who believed it was that of the Dominion and was sending all Fourth Fleet ships to the fight.

Standing up from her chair walking over to the window that was on the far side of her office near an adjoining bookshelf and a couch in front of the window for lounging. Standing there she looked out to see other ships coming and going from the station. She knew the cost of war, she knew what she was about to order her crew into. A good majority were never a part of the Dominion War, now they would have to fight them again.

“Sir you have an incoming priority one communication,” came the voice of Ritru over the comm channel.

Breaking her out of her trance, blinking a few times before turning back towards her desk. “Put it through to my ready room,” Azras ordered before sitting down. A few moments later the screen changed to see that of Commodore Imya Jori. She knew they were about to receive their orders, she was prepared. “Good morning Commodore,” Azras said as she put on a fake smile as she addressed her superior officer.

Imya smiled in return, “I wish this conversation was on better circumstances than what we are currently facing.” Jori bluntly replied even though she hated having to make these orders but it was a necessity that she had learned to just accept. Sending them into a fight with their old adversaries, for some again others would be their first taste of the Jem’Hadar.

Jori tapped a few buttons on her console that was located on her desk, sending Azras all the information and intelligence they had on the mission she was about to send them on. “I am sending you and your squadron into enemy space,” Jori began as she explained the mission and what was at stake. Once she finished speaking she looked at her for a brief moment, “any questions?” Jori asked finally.

Azras had listened intently to all that Jori was saying, thinking about the dangers that would lie ahead of them. This was going to be a dangerous mission for all ships involved, but crippling the fleet yards would help them. As they depended on them, so much more was riding on the success of this mission. “Not at this time, I understand our assignment,” Azras replied with a somber look on her face before putting on another fake smile.

“May god speed Captain,” Jori responded. “Only trust the Fourth Fleet,” is all she said before the screen went dark.

Closing her eyes for a moment to collect her thoughts, especially about what the Commodore had to say at the end of their conversation. “Commander Ritru send word to both Captain Derohl and Commander Rayu to report to the Saratoga’s observation lounge in thirty minutes,” Azras said even though her eyes were still closed.

“Aye sir,” Ritru responded.

After a while, she opened her eyes to bring up the information that Commodore Jori had sent over. She began studying to come up with a game plan to present to her squadron commanders. Twenty minutes later she had finished, getting up from her chair she made her way to the observation lounge.

Upon arrival, she sat down at the head of the table bringing up the information needed while she waited for the two to arrive. After she finished she stood up from the chair she was sitting at and walked over to one of the windows that adjourned the wall on her right side. Standing there she looked out while she waited, lost in thought until the doors finally parted to reveal both commanders who had walked over to take their seats. She stood there for a few seconds more before turning around and joining the two at the table.

“Thank you for coming,” Azras replied as she looked at the two. “I just received our orders,” Azras began as she pulled up the current map of the area in question. “We are being sent into Breen territory to cripple the Lungurn Fleet Yards,” she began which caused both Tajir and Isha to look at each other for a moment before returning their attention to Azras.

“The Breen have handed the old Fleet Yards over to the Dominion, to help with repairing their ships.” Azras continued to speak, “crippling them will strike a major blow to the Dominion. It will not be an easy task to complete as the system is well defended not only by the Breen and Dominion but also weapons platforms.” Azras finished speaking giving a bit of time for the two to ask questions before she went on with their plan.

Commander Rayu sat there adjusting in her chair, “please tell us you have a plan or this will just be a suicide run.” Isha countered she might be new to the squadron but she knew what occupation was like having been through the Cardassian occupation even though she was just a young child when it ended.

Azras looked at the commander a bit thrown back by her bluntness, she respected that in the commanders under her command. “Yes,” Azras said as she swiped right to bring up another set of information. “We will be traveling from Starbase 38 to the Ciater Nebula where we will be traveling through to help mask our ships.” Azras began as the two listen carefully.

“Though we will need to make modifications to our ships which I have already sent those modifications to your chief engineers,” Azras said before moving on to the next point of the plan. “Once we arrive at Ciater, Tajir you will dispatch your fighter unit to team up with the Knight. They will enter the nebula first, gathering information about the movements of the Dominion and Breen ships in the area.” She replied pausing for a brief moment before continuing, “Commander Rayu will report back with their findings. The Saratoga and Gagarin will enter shortly after.” She finished looking at them.

“Once we have reached the exit of the nebula, the Knight and fighters will go after the weapons platforms to take them out.” Azras replied, “while the Saratoga and Gagarin will engage with the enemy ships that will be in the area.” Azras explained before looking at Tajir, “from what intelligence reports I received about Lungurn is that it is believed that the Fleet Yards are tied together to help keep them operational even when they were not in use after the Dominion War. It seems with the arrival of the Dominion, they were able to bring the remaining facilities online. There is no reason to think that they are still not connected to and run by the command and control center. I need you to send your hazard team to the control center to sabotage those systems.” Azras began explaining, “once your team successfully sabotages their systems bringing them down the Gagarin will break away from the Saratoga once your team has returned, I want you to destroy the command and control center as well as many fleet yards and asteroid bases as you can.” Azras finished.

“Commander Rayu once you have taken out those weapons platforms team up with the Gagarin to assist them. The Saratoga will hold off the enemy ships as long as possible,” Azras said as Rayu nodded.

“Once we finished we will make a retreat back through the nebula,” Azras finished with her briefing. “Any questions?” She asked looking at the two.

“This is a crazy plan, do you think that it will work?” Tajir asked.

“We have to make it work, if we have to adjust that plan as we go we will but we have to succeed one way or another or we will never get an upper hand in this fight,” Azras replied.

“You know they are going to call for backup once they realize we’re there,” Rayu responded.

“I will be having my engineers come up with a way to jam their communication right as we enter their system,” Azras said though that would only delay the inevitable as once the rest of the fleet realizes they lost contact they will send ships to investigate. “Though hopefully, we can finish our mission before backup arrives,” she replied.

“We will be prepared,” Tajir spoke up as Rayu nodded in agreement.

Azras looked at both of them, “I know that this is a lot being asked of us and our crews. Some have been through the Dominion War, while others only have read it in history books or stories from veterans of that war. This will not be easy, facing an old adversary and now with Breen’s involvement.” She said looking at the two commanders. “Make peace with what we are about to face now, or this will eat you alive by the end.” She finished looking at the two.

“We leave immediately, prepare your ships and crew for what lay ahead of us. Dismissed,” Azras replied as the two officers stood up to leave before being stopped right before the door, she was going to give them the same warning as Commodore Jori left her. “Trust only the Fourth Fleet,” Azras said as the others looked at her for a brief moment before nodding and leaving the observation lounge to head back to their respective ships to prepare for departure.

She sat there with her eyes closed for a few moments after their departure before getting up and walking onto the bridge. She still needed to brief her crew on their mission, which would wait until after they are underway. Those that were on the bridge knew they were off to battle even though they didn’t know exactly what their mission was.

“Captain Derohl and Commander Rayu are back onboard their ships and are reporting they are ready for departure,” Ritru replied breaking the silence while looking at the captain.

Azras nodded before looking at Deza, “set a course for the Ciater Nebula at maximum warp.” Azras ordered.

Deza looked at her with a somber expression as she knew, “aye sir.” Airje replied as a few moments later the three ships backed safely away from Starbase 38 and went to warp. She would now address her crew about what they were going up against and their mission, to begin preparations for battle before arriving at the nebula.  Which would be several hours out, they had time to prepare as best they could.

Captain’s Log, Stardate 2401.3,

 

After the news broke of the return of the Lost Fleet, I had to make the tough call no one likes to make and that was to order all civilian populace off this ship as well as the Gagarin and the Knight. What I wouldn’t give to have Azrin here right now, he has always been my strength in times like these. After the events of the Delta Quadrant I’d don’t want to put their lives in danger facing an enemy we have faced once before twenty-five years ago.

 

The Squadron will be arriving at the Ciatar Nebula here soon, where we will meet up with the USS Constellation. Captain Taes had requested that we be their forward scout when entering the nebula. Since we are better equipped to combat Dominion patrols that might be using the nebula to hide. Intern informing them of the safest route to travel toward their destination.

 

From there we will then continue with our plan…our plan. I just hope we can pull this off for the sake of getting an advantage in this war.

Silence and tension filled the bridge as they were only a few minutes away from arriving near the entrance of the Ciatar Nebula. The reality of the situation had finally hit some of the officers as they began to wonder if they will make a difference, will they come out of this on the other side intact. Deza looked back at Chon’al for a moment as they both locked eyes on each other. He gave her a reassuring smile even though he wasn’t sure himself he had to stand strong for her and others on this crew.

A few moments later the three ships dropped out of warp, T’Prel stood up from her chair to look at the view screen seeing the purplish tinge to the Nebula. The doors to the ready room off the left side near the rear of the bridge opened up as Azras walked out to look at the view. “Report,” Azras ordered as she rounded onto the command chair before taking a seat as T’Prel moved over.

“We have arrived at the nebula the Constellation reports that they are ready and will follow our lead. Both the Knight and Gagarin report ready,” T’Prel said before Ritru looked up from her console.

“Sir, Commander Rayu is requesting to come on board with Commander Piyu Jaiett and has requested that Captain Derohl come onboard as well.” Ritru responded, “she states it’s urgent.” She added before waiting on a response from the captain.

Raising an eyebrow, “very well have them meet me in the conference room.” Azras said as she wondered what was so urgent that couldn’t be explained over the view screen. She left T’Prel in charge of the bridge while she made her way to the conference room. She stood at the window looking out while she waited, the view of the Constellation came into view as she saw the beauty of the Constitution III-class.

The doors opened to the conference room briefly to reveal Rayu Isha, Piyu Jaiett, and Tajir Derohl. “Please have a seat,” Azras said standing at the window for a few more minutes allowing them time to take their seats before she turned around making her way toward hers. “This better be good,” she replied before sitting.

“There is a problem with phase one of our plan,” Rayu began which got Azras’s attention.

“Go on,” she said.

“Well as you well know the orbital weapons platforms that are protecting the Lungurn Fleet Yards are Cardassian in design, the same ones that were used during the last war specifically in the First Battle of Chin’toka. The weapons platforms are virtually invisible to any weapons due to its regenerative deflector shielding.” Piyu began as he passed her the padd with all the information on it.

Azras took the padd and began to read it as he continued, “we do not know where their generator is at this moment. It could be either in the command and control center, though I believe that is not a possibility.” He replied as he took a breath.

“How do you think that is not a possibility?” Tajir spoke up looking at him.

“If I were the Breen, I would have it on one of the asteroid bases that are close by the weapons platforms. If anything were to happen to the systems within the command and control the weapons would still be operational.” Piyu replied looking at him.

“Makes sense,” Azras replied.

“I had contacted Commander Trol to see if she might know if they had some kind of shutdown code to deactivate them. She made contact with an old friend on Cardassia to find out, unfortunately, they do not but did suggest an option that might work at least temporarily.” Piyu said looking at the three in the room.

“What would that be exactly?” Tajir asked before Azras could.

“That we modify the warp signature of the Knight to fool the weapons platforms into thinking we are an ally to give us an advantage in finding that generator and exploiting it just like Starfleet did during the Dominion War,” Rayu spoke up this time looking at them. 

“The only thing is that it would just have to be us entering, the fighters would just get picked off. I suggest that they deploy but stay back in formation in front of the Gagarin and Saratoga.” Piyu added looking at them.

“What if that doesn’t work?” Azras spoke up after a few moments of silence.

“Then we will have a major problem in going any further with our mission objectives, if my instincts are correct they are lined up right before you enter the fleet yards.” Piyu said grimly, “I believe this plan will work.” Piyu said with confidence even though he truly wasn’t feeling it at the moment but didn’t want that to show.

Azras sat there for a moment thinking of what they were proposing, though it was at this time the only plan they had to even get past those weapons. Rubbing her hands over her face letting out a sigh, “very well let me know when you’re ready to proceed.” Azras finally replied as she looked at them.

“We should be ready in less than thirty minutes,” Piyu replied.

“Very well dismissed,” Azras said as the three of them exited the conference room leaving Azras sitting there. After the doors closed shut behind them she stood up and walked back over to the window, she began to look back out for a few more moments. She knew that not everything would go as planned, she just hoped that this plan would work. She knew Piyu was a gifted engineer, that was why she reassigned him over to the Knight.

After a few moments, she exited the conference room and back onto the bridge, “move us closer to the nebula.” Azras ordered looking at Deza who nodded before the ship slowly began to move closer to the nebula.

Turning to Commander Atur, “begin scanning the nebula for any enemy ships we can detect from here.” Azras ordered as the ship stopped at the desired coordinates, so far it hasn’t disturbed any hornet’s nest as nothing was coming out of the nebula at them.

“Aye sir,” Jeesa replied before she began her work which would take a while to complete.

Azras turned toward where Ritru was sitting, “send word to the Constellation to let them know we will be ready to enter the nebula shortly.” Azras ordered as Ritru just nodded in response. Azras slumped back in her chair with a sigh as officers began to work preparing to enter the nebula once the Knight was ready.

“Sir I completed my scans of the nebula,” Jeesa began to speak as she turned to face the captain from the science station. “So far I am not detecting any Dominion or Breen activity,” Jeesa said as she looked at her.

“Very good,” Azras replied as she straightened up in her chair.

“Knight reports ready and is moving into position,” Ritru spoke up.

“Let them know to move in,” Azras ordered as Ritru nodded and a few moments later they saw the Edison-class ship begin to move in front of the squadron and into the nebula.

“Open a channel to the Gagarin,” Azras said.

“Channel open,” Ritru replied.

“Captain deploy the fighters and have them move in formation slightly in front of us once they are in place we will begin to move in,” Azras said as Tajir appeared on the screen.

“Aye sir, launching fighters now,” Tajir replied.

The communication ended as she saw the fighters being launched out of the Gagarin and began to get into formation. Once they were in place she took a deep breath as she nodded towards Deza to begin to move within the nebula. The two ships began to move with the Constellation close behind them.

Time seemed to slow down to almost a complete stop as they slowly traveled while giving some space between them and the Knight for them to do their job. Tensions began to build more so than before as they were about to enter enemy space, about to go into battle with an enemy they have faced once before. She would be lying to say she wasn’t nervous though she would never tell anyone as she had to remain that strong leader that her crew needs right now.

After a while, the Knight returned, “sir Commander Rayu is hailing us.” Ritru replied looking over from her console.

“On screen,” Azras said as a few moments later Rayu came on the viewscreen.

“Sir we have completed our initial scans of the nebula, we have not detected any presence of the Jem’Hadar ships. I also sent over the safest route to the Constellation.” Rayu said looking at the captain.

“Very good,” Azras replied. “Azras out,” she said before the viewscreen went back to the view of the nebula as the Knight had gone ahead again as the ships continued to move through the nebula.

“Sir, if I may make a suggestion,” Jeesa spoke up from her station.

“Depending on what the Knight reports back to what we find at Lungurn, I would suggest creating a way to block the enemy from sending any distress signals. I can work with engineering to create some communication probes that can be sent out to different areas.” She said looking at Azras.

Azras looked at her and thought for a moment, she figured that only a few patrol ships would be patrolling the Lungurn Fleet Yards. “Do it,” Azras said as she looked up at the Commander.

Jeesa nodded as she got up from her station and headed for the turbolift and headed down towards engineering. Azras sat there as a lump formed in her throat that she tried to swallow. They would slowly travel through the nebula until they had gotten to the exit which they would remain while Knight carried out phase one of their plan.

After a while, the Constellation breaks formation and begins to head in a separate direction. “Sir, Captain Taes sends her regards wishing us good hunting,” Ritru spoke up from her console breaking the silence. Azras nodded in acknowledgment and sends the same response. The bridge feel silent again as they reached their stopping point, now it was all up to the Knight.

Reality started to kick in as the squadron sat at the nebula’s edge, uncertain about what lay ahead of them. Even with a well-thought-out plan things could still go sideways which was evident by what Commander Rayu Isha had sent the Saratoga a few moments ago. Azras had begun to pace in front of her chair, while T’Prel sat in her seat watching her. This crew had been through a lot over the past year and some odd months they have been together, they faced many trials together and have always come out on top. Though the only difference now is that only a handful of officers had fought in the Dominion War and know how dangerous they can be.

They were about to storm the Fleet Yards, taking out their way of repairing their ships which was a huge task that would be very hard for a lone ship. For a squadron of ships and fighters, it would still be a difficult task ahead but one they would be able to accomplish working together.

Silence had taken over again, Ritru had been at her station as she looked over at T’Prel for some reassurance. She had only read about the Dominion and what they are capable of and to say she wasn’t scared would be a long shot. She was petrified though she wouldn’t let it show and would do her job, it still scared her that not all of them would make it out.

T’Prel stood up from her chair as the Azras kept pacing waiting on word about if the Knight was successful or not. She walked over to Ritru and placed a hand on her shoulder to try to comfort her a bit. Ritru smiled at the gesture that meant so much now, it reassured her that they would get through this together no matter what happened at the end.

Jeesa was at the science station monitoring the Knight and their progress as well as constantly monitoring for enemy ships. She started to pick up some weapons fire from the orbital platforms where the Knight was located, her heart almost sank but when she realized that they weren’t firing on the Knight but on the generator itself she felt relieved. After a few minutes, the weapons fire stopped, looking over her shoulder towards the captain.

“Sir,” she began which caused Azras to stop pacing the floor and look at Jeesa. “The Knight was successful the weapons platforms have been disabled,” she said as Azras had a look of relief.

“Wonderful,” Azras replied as she took a seat. Now the next phase was about to commence and the nerves started to hit everyone again. “Ritru send the signal to the Gagarin and the Crimson Knights to set course for Lungurn Fleet Yards,” Azras ordered as Ritru nodded in response.

Looking at Deza taking a deep breath, “take us in.” Azras ordered.

Briefly looking back at the captain she nodded before she turned around tapping a few controls and the squadron began to move in unison toward their destination. “Once we get in position launch those communication blockers,” she said as she looked at Jeesa who nodded.

Jeesa was having difficulty concentrating on the task at hand, she was having a hard time blocking out everyone’s emotions. Most everyone was feeling fear of what lie up ahead, there was some anger that this was happening again, and others were just downright scared. She was feeling scared, scared of the unknown, scared of not coming out of this. She kept her composure and would do what any Starfleet Officer would do and that was their job but that didn’t stop her from what she was feeling as they were about to go into battle with a formable enemy as the Dominion.

Chon’al had been at his station keeping an eye on the situation from an intelligence standpoint. He had seen many battles over his many years, fought in the last Dominion War which helped him now as he knew how they thought in terms of their movements. He had his fears along with everyone else, just because he was a Klingon didn’t mean that he was looking to go to battle for the glory of the empire. He walked away from that many, many years ago, he wanted something better than always looking for a fight.

Silence seemed to be the new norm with no one saying anything, or knowing what to even say. They continued on their course to meet up with the Knight, where they would begin to scan for enemy ships that were located near the command and control center. Dazra was making sure all weapons systems were operational and that they would be ready for the inevitable.

Jheria had walked on the bridge to monitor the ship from up there, she as well as the whole crew was still adjusting to the new ship after being on the Odyssey-class for so long. This had been an adjustment, the ship itself was operating at top efficiency. She wondered how she would do during combat, thankfully they were not on their own.

After a while the ships dropped out of warp next to the Knight, Azras looked at Jeesa who began to scan for how many enemy ships were near the command and control center. “There are four Jem’Hadar fighters and two Breen scouts currently near the control center.” Jeesa replied looking at Azras, “those are the only ships I am currently detecting in the system. The rest could be patrolling outer regions or at Izar,” Jeesa added.

“There seems to be a couple of Jem’Hadar battlecruisers in the process of being repaired. From what I can tell they are not even operational and won’t be for quite some time,” Jheria said as she brought up the current sensor readings.

“Do you know if they have detected us yet?” Azras asked.

“I don’t believe so as they have not moved or indicated they are aware of our presence yet.” Dazra interrupted looking at her screen of enemy movements. If they were aware they seem to be playing with them, wanting them to come to them. This made her nervous as things can go sideways real quick, but she was prepared to give it her all or die trying.

“Go to red alert and bring weapons online and ready,” Azras ordered looking at Dazra.

“Aye sir,” she replied as the ship went to red alert though she had silenced the actual alarm.

“Take us in, get ready on my mark to send those probes out,” Azras said as the ships began to move in past the dead orbital platforms. The Crimson Knights began to move in two directions to come at the enemy from both sides while the Gagarin and Saratoga came from the middle. Once they were in position Jeesa tapped her console sending out the four probes that would head in strategic positions. 

They began to head in separate directions until they reached their destinations and activated. She hoped they worked and they were not able to call for backup, she knew it wouldn’t last long before more patrols would return after failing to contact those at the fleet yards. She just hoped it would be long enough for them to do their job and leave.

Both ships had begun to move away from each other in each direction, while the fighters had gone in from both sides firing on the enemy ships. Their tactic was to catch them by surprise and draw them in the direction of the Saratoga and Gagarin that were waiting further away from the control center. The fighters came up and started firing on the ships before heading off in the direction of where the two ships were.

“They have taken the bait, they are heading in our direction,” Dazra spoke up from her console.

She looked at Ritru who nodded, “Captain Derohl launch your hazard team now.” Azras ordered.

“Aye sir,” Tajir replied before the channel closed. A short time later the shuttle containing the hazard team launched, the fighters began to protect the shuttle as it headed off in the direction of the control center while still staying close to the Gagarin.

“The enemy ships have come within range and are charging weapons,” Dazra spoke up from her console.

“Open fire!” Azras ordered.

The ships began to open fire on the enemy ships as the fighters worked with Gagarin to focus their targeting on the Breen scouts while the Saratoga focused on the Jem’Hadar fighters. While the Obena-class was a large capital ship, the Jem’Hadar fighters thought it would be an easy target to take down. Not knowing that she was able to maneuver as if she were a smaller ship, Azras used that to her advantage.

“Direct hit off our port side,” Dazra replied. “Shields are holding,” she added.

The ship began to move toward the aft of the ship and began to open fire, Azras looked at Deza as the ship rocked causing her to lose her footing for a moment as she stood. The Saratoga had continued firing her weapons as she looked at Deza, “swing us around.” She ordered as the ship began to maneuver around to face the ship. 

The fight would continue between the ships as they took hit after hit between the two ships, one of the Crimson Knight fighters was destroyed while the others regrouped next to the Gagarin. Azras hoped that the hazard team were successful at taking down the command and control center. That was a huge portion of their mission was the sabotage and destruction of most if not all of their operations here. Putting a damper on them being able to repair their ships, giving them a leg up in this battle against the Dominion.

The darkness of the stars that were shown in space at that moment soon changed as it lit up as the explosion of the last Jem’Hadar ship was seen right in front of their ship. Azras Dex sat in her chair, blood dripping from her forehead after being tossed around from the ongoing fight. She probably was injured more than her head but at that moment she wasn’t feeling any pain, just adrenaline from the fight to even notice. Sitting there in silence not saying anything, thinking about everything that had transpired or still currently happening.

If time could stand still it certainly did in this moment, after watching the scene unfold right in front of her with the Gagarin and hearing the news that Tajir Derohl had died. Tears ran down her face from the grief of losing a good officer under her command and someone who she had gotten to know over the past few months. Now the pain of having to make those calls, the hardest part of this job was making those calls.

Her mind drifted back to the Dominion War, she had watched people get killed by the hands of the Dominion. Seen how ruthless they were not caring for any life, only to conquer worlds to dominate under their regime. She had almost lost her life if it wasn’t for her a fellow officer laying down his life to save hers she wouldn’t be here right now, fighting them yet again.

She seemed to snap back to the present when a voice broke the silence, “sir your head is bleeding!” T’Prel said as she didn’t look much better and seemed to be battered and bruised.

Taking a moment to look around the bridge, a few of her senior staff had been injured and taken to medical for treatment. She wondered how many had they lost and how badly the ship was damaged. Sparks seemed to be flying at a few consoles, smoke filled the air for a few moments as the fire suppressant system kicked in putting out the small fires from consoles that overloaded.

Reaching for her head she felt a wetness to it as she brought her hand down and looked. “So I am,” Azras finally spoke up as T’Prel used a dermal regenerator to stop bleeding.

“You need to go to sickbay,” T’Prel said.

“I am fine,” Azras said even though the pain from her chest started to set in. Though she did not let it show, she would go to sickbay but would go once they were finished with their mission. “Damage report,” she asked no one in particular.

“Hull breaches on our starboard side decks five and six,” T’Prel said. “Engineering took a hit, warp core is currently offline though should be back online within the hour. Currently, we do have impulse engines,” she added as she listed off other minor damage from taking on four Jem’Hadar fighters. Taking the report she read it for herself, the hull breaches were minor in comparison to the one sustained on the previous Saratoga that took the life of her younger son as well as others.

Her heart seemed to drop to her stomach yet again, “casualties?” She asked as she looked at T’Prel, one that showed no emotion you could tell she was deeply affected by what she was about to report.

“One hundred were lost, another sixty are injured with ten of those in critical condition,” T’Prel said as had a look in her eyes of sadness for those who gave their lives.

Azras closed her eyes for a moment, war was a horrible thing and to lose good officers was never easy. Some of them were just fresh out of the Academy on their first assignment and didn’t even get a chance at life beyond the stars. Her heart ached for the wonderful journey and challenges they wouldn’t be able to experience. Looking around the bridge, some of her senior staff had been injured one of which was in critical condition.

Chon’al looked worse for wear, you could see beyond that wall of toughness to see the worry in his eyes. He had just started seeing Deza Airje who was in critical condition when her console exploded while she sat there. She knew his story and how he must be feeling at not knowing if someone he began to care about was going to make it or not.

Dazra had always acted tough, keeping most people at arm’s length in terms of personal relationships with those who she worked with day in and day out. Keeping up the facade of not being bothered by anything though now she looked exhausted both emotionally and physically. This war has taken its toll on everyone though the battle was over their mission was far from over. This war was far from over.

“Sir,” came the voice of Jeesa Atur from the science station breaking the silence. “I am picking up three battlecruisers on long-range sensors. They are headed this way,” she said as she looked over at Azras.

“How long till they get here?” Azras asked looking at Jeesa.

“Two hours,” Atur replied.

She sighed, they were in no shape to go toe to toe with three battlecruisers even with the three of them. She knew that even with the communication blockers, they would eventually send reinforcements when they failed to check in or answer any hails that they had tried to send. She was grateful that it wasn’t any sooner than now or they all be in more trouble than they wanted. This mission would have possibly failed if they noticed sooner.

“Bridge to engineering,” Azras said.

“Engineering here Captain,” Jheria said over the comm channel.

“How long until we have warp drive?” Azras asked as she looked towards the viewscreen even if there was nothing there except space and wreckage of the enemy ships.

“Another forty-five minutes sir,” Jheria replied.

“You have thirty minutes, we have three Jem’Hadar Battlecruisers on their way. They will arrive in two hours and I want us long gone before that.” Azras ordered she hated to push repairs to be done faster but this time they had no choice.

The line went quiet for a moment, “understood.” Jheria finally replied, “you will have warp drive in thirty minutes sir.” Jheria added.

“Thank you,” Azras replied before closing out the channel.

Turning to Ritru who had just returned from sickbay after being mildly injured, “get me both Commanders Rayu and Tilana.” Azras ordered as Ritru nodded before she turned around and began to get the two commanders on the line.

Teila had walked out of the surgical suite after finishing up surgery on her last patient, she was being moved to the recovery ward where she will be closely monitored. Deza Airje had taken an explosion causing most of her body to be covered in burns along with shrapnel in her stomach causing severe damage.

The rest of her staff was busy taking care of the rest of the patients, most of them had minor injuries and only about a few were in critical condition and required surgery to repair the damage they had sustained. She was feeling hopeful that they would make it, medical officers and nurses would remain in the recovery ward to monitor each one and act quickly if anything were to change.

She had made her way to her office and plopped down in her chair, putting her face between her hands for a few moments. Emotions began to pile up, being a doctor you see many things. See death more times than you care to but it never gets any easier losing a patient or many patients that just succumb to their injuries.

Rubbing her face she looked up as tears streaked down her cheek, staring off towards the corner of the room she began to think about her life and her career. This war had put a huge burden on her and she began to wonder about her life and career as a Starfleet Doctor. Just then the door chime went off, she wiped her eyes before she looked at the door. “Come,” she said as the doors opened to reveal Lieutenant Jaliyo Raid one of the ship’s Counselors.

“What can I do for you, Lieutenant?” Teila said looking at her before motioning for the chair that was located in front of her desk.

Taking the offered seat, “just a social call to see how you are doing.” Jaliyo said with a soft smile, with everything that has happened or still going on she wanted to make sure everyone was alright. “Is there anything you want to get off your chest? I wanted to make sure our medical team was alright.” She said as she looked at her, she wanted to be an outlet for anyone who wished to talk about their feelings.

She sat there for a moment, “just been questioning myself and why I am here.” She said as she stood up from her chair and walked over to the nearby window. Jaliyo stayed seated and turned in her direction.

“Why?” Raid asked gently.

Silence filled the room as she stood there thinking, “we lost so many good officers today, some of them succumbed to their injuries during surgery.” Teila began as tears began to flow down her cheeks again. “More are in critical condition and could go either way,” she added. “Questioning whether I have done all that I could have, could more have been done quicker.” She said with a heavy sigh.

“Feeling powerless is a tough feeling for anyone,” Jaliyo replied. “Wishing you could have done more, please know that you have done everything you could. Not everything turns out like a storybook ending,” she said referring to stories with happy endings. “That doesn’t make you any less of a person, any less important in your job here.” She said with a soft and understanding tone.

“Know that you are needed and you are wanted here, war is an ugly thing but we can get through this together,” Raid replied as she got up from her chair making her way over to the doctor. Placing her hand on her shoulder, “we are in this together.” She added with a small gentle smile.

Just as she was about to respond one of her monitors started blaring, rushing over she saw that Deza began to seize. She was about to speak when Raid raised her hand, “go take care of your patients my door is always open when this is over.” She said as Teila ran out of her office towards the recovery ward as Jaliyo made her way out of medical onto her next destination.

“Over half of the bases have been destroyed while others are completely out of commission,” Tilana said as she looked at Azras through the viewscreen. She had also given a damage and casualty report, though it was nothing like what the Saratoga had experienced.

The only ship that didn’t receive any damage was the Knight as they were taking out the orbital weapons so they couldn’t be repaired before teaming up with the Gagarin. The only casualty was their first officer, which was still in the back of her mind about that incident.

“We have detected three battlecruisers on an intercept course, they will arrive in less than two hours.” Azras began to explain, “begin to wrap up we are leaving the system in less than thirty minutes.” Azras ordered.

“Understood,” both replied in unison.

“Your fighter squadron is en route to your location,” she added.

“Aye sir,” Tilana replied.

Shortly after the viewscreen went back to the view of space, Azras sat back closing her eyes as now the pain had begun to set in. She was being stubborn not wanting to leave her post just yet but knew she had to go sooner or later.

“Sir you need to go get checked out,” T’Prel pressed again looking at the captain.

She looked at her for a moment as she worked her jaw for a moment. “Alright, you have the bridge.” Azras replied as she stood up, “once the other two ships arrive back and we have warp drive set course for the Ciatar Nebula.” Azras ordered looking at her.

“Understood,” T’Prel replied as Azras made her way toward the turbolift and disappeared. T’Prel got up from the chair she was sitting in and walked over to where Ritru was sitting.

“How are you holding up?” T’Prel asked as she leaned against the console looking at her partner.

“Doing alright I suppose,” she said looking at her. “We have been through so much over the last year, I think this war has taken a toll on all of us,” Ritru added adjusting in her seat. “After what we experienced with the Blood Dilithium crisis in the Delta Quadrant, to losing our other ship. To only get a different class of ship, one that we are unfamiliar with before being thrust into another Dominion War.” She said as everything was getting to her, though it was getting to a lot of people as well.

T’Prel nodded placing a hand on hers, not sure what to say other than give her the support she needed. “Sir the Gagarin and Knight have arrived,” Odan spoke up from his console.

“Thank you, Commander,” T’Prel replied as now they waited for word about their warp drive. She squeezed Ritru’s hand briefly before walking away and heading back to the commander’s chair where she sat down.

“Engineering to bridge,” Jheria said over the comm channel.

“Go ahead,” T’Prel replied.

“Warp core is online and stable, you should be able to hit at least warp eight,” Jheria replied.

“Thank you,” T’Prel replied before ending the channel and looking over at Ritru. “Send a message to the other two ships to set course for the Ciatar Nebula warp eight,” T’Prel replied.

“Aye sir,” came the reply as she sent the message.

“Lieutenant Rass set course for warp eight,” T’Prel ordered.

“Course and speed set,” Rass replied.

“Engage,” she said as all three ships in unison jumped to warp heading towards the nebula where they would make their return to Federation space. They would make it back just in time for when those battlecruisers would arrive to find the present they had left them. They had delivered a hard blow to their operations and hopefully with those fleet yards out of commission they would have a more difficult time in repairing their ships.

Just as she leaned back in the chair the doors to the turbolift came open to reveal the captain. Getting up from the chair she moved over to hers before the Azras had taken hers. “Warp core has been repaired and all three of us are on our way back through the Ciatar Nebula,” T’Prel said as Azras nodded before taking her seat.

“Thank you,” Azras replied as she watched the fast motion of the stars while the ship was at warp. Silence once again filled the bridge, no one wanting to talk each one reflecting on everything that had transpired. Though this mission came at a great cost, they had delivered a crippling blow to their operations here at Lungurn Fleet Yards.

Azras sat in her ready room thinking about everything that had taken place, they had been successful in their mission and dealt a heavy blow to both Dominion and Breen forces at Lungurn Fleet Yards. They would have had a hard time repairing their ships without those fleet yards which gave Azras some satisfaction. Though at what cost, her thoughts raced to all those who lost their lives in the battle that ensured. She had already filed her report to Fourth Fleet Command about the success of their mission and the cost of such.

“Captain to the bridge,” came the voice of T’Prel.

Azras raised an eyebrow, “on my way.” Azras said as she wondered what was going on with the urgency of her voice. A few moments later Azras appeared on the bridge, “report.” Azras ordered taking her seat while looking at her first officer.

“We have received a transmission from Fourth Fleet Command,” T’Prel began. “They are requesting that any available ship in the area head to Farpoint station, there is a fleet of Breen and Dominion forces heading directly towards Farpoint,” T’Prel added looking at the captain.

They were already more than halfway to Farpoint and ahead of the incoming enemy ships. The ships were damaged but the repairs had been ongoing since they left Lungurn, they would be battle ready by the time they arrived. Working her jaw as she stared out the viewscreen while the ship was at warp. “Get me Commanders Tilana and Rayu Isha on the line,” Azras finally ordered.

“Aye sir,” Ritru replied.

Shortly after both Tilana and Rayu appeared on the viewscreen, “I will assume both of you got the same message that we just got?” Azras asked as she could see the looks on both of their faces as she asked this question.

“Yes,” they both seem to respond in unison.

“I take it we’re heading there to join the battle?” Tilana asked as she knew they would be stupid if they didn’t.

“We are as they need all the available ships to rally together to protect Farpoint. If they take Farpoint we lose this war,” Azras said looking at the two commanders. They seemed to understand the need and it would be the first time that Commander Rayu and the Knight were to see battle, be a part of the fight.

Azras knew that this would be the Knight’s first battle they have faced during this whole ordeal. She believed in her ability with being on the tactical track her whole career, she had the knowledge and skill to lead the ship into battle. “Change course for Farpoint, increase speed to maximum warp. We will arrive well before the enemy does,” Azras said after a few seconds of silence.

“Understood sir,” they both responded before the viewscreen changed back to the view of them at warp.

Lieutenant Rass had already adjusted their course and speed for Farpoint before she even gave the order. Leaning back in her chair she closed her eyes for a few moments as she thought. She was about to lead her ship, her squadron into battle once again though on a much larger scale. She thought about what she was about to ask of her crew again, just as they thought their mission was over. After a few moments, she opened her eyes and looked around the bridge, looking at each one of her staff that were there.

“This is a suicide run!” Chon’al spoke as her eyes landed on him, she could tell he was feeling overwhelmed by everything that has taken place. To top it off the person he was beginning to care deeply about was currently still fighting for her life in the infirmary. Everyone looked at him not daring to agree with him though most of them weren’t even sure what to think at that time to even agree or disagree.

T’Prel was about to respond when Azras just held up her hand to stop her, standing up from her chair she walked over to where he was. “Chon’al I know you are going through a lot right now and this war has taken a toll on you. I can tell you it has taken a toll on all of us myself included,” she said gesturing to everyone on the bridge and the ship as a whole. “I don’t like it any more than you do,” she said looking at him.

“Good officers have died already, how many more will have to die before this ends?” Chon’al asked looking at Azras pain shooting through his eyes.

She knew how he felt she truly did and she sympathized with him, “if Farpoint falls to the Dominion we lose the Deneb sector and possibly more. Nasera, Izar, and many more worlds that were liberated, freed from their captors would be for nothing.” She said looking at him, “we can’t let that happen we have to fight, fight until they are gone!” Azras said as tears ran down her cheek, she knew more officers would probably lose their lives by the time this was all said and done.

“What we did at Lungurn would have been for nothing,” she added.

Chon’al looked at her as she talked, “I apologize Captain.” Chon’al said as he lowered his head, the pain he was feeling was real. He let his frustration and anger get the better of him, she placed a hand on his broad shoulders and gave a reassuring smile.

“It’s alright we all need to get things off our chest once in a while,” Azras said as she wasn’t offended by his outburst but welcomed it as it allowed him to get something that he was holding in for far too long out. “We will get through this together! We will come out of this together!” Azras said not only to him but everyone else that was looking at them.

Everyone including Chon’al nodded at what Azras had reminded them, she made her way back to her chair as they would be dropping out of warp soon to join the Fourth Fleet for this final battle. To say she wasn’t scared or nervous was far from the truth, she was just like everyone else. She just chose to remember what she spoke and remain strong for her crew and her squadron.

Time seemed to drag on as they waited for their arrival at Farpoint, for them to drop out of warp to join the fleet. Everyone was busy preparing the ship to engage in one more battle. The silence was a deafening sound that they seemed all too familiar with throughout this war.

“Sir weapons systems are online and operational and the shield generators are fully restored and operational sir,” Dazra replied with her report, even though she didn’t ask for it she felt that she should at least know before they arrive.

“The ship has been repaired as much as possible though we are battle-ready,” Odan replied from his station. 

“The Gagarin and Knight report the same,” Ritru responded as she just received word about their status.

“Thank you,” Azras said with satisfaction that her crew and this squadron were pulling together for what lie ahead of them. A few moments later all three ships dropped out of warp to see the ships of the Fourth Fleet and Task Group 514.

“Bring us into formation,” Azras ordered as the three ships began to move into formation with the other ships. She looked at Ritru, “Inform the Gagarin to launch their fighter group.” Azras ordered.

“Aye sir,” Ritru responded.

The computer let out a sound that signaled a fleet-wide message, then the voice of Admiral Dahlgren came on. Everyone on every ship listened to what was being said as he gave his speech before going into battle. Once it ended she looked at everyone who seemed to have a renewed confidence.

“Give me a battle plan,” Azras ordered looking over to Chon’al who nodded and consulted with the information that he received on the enemy movements. The crew was busy getting prepared for what lie ahead, the anxiety rose as they waited.

Chon’al sent her the battle plan which she reviewed and nodded before sending it to both commanders. She also gave instructions for the Knight and Gagarin to work together when engaging the enemy. She received confirmation of orders, now they waited for the enemy to arrive.

The Crimson Knights had launched moments earlier, though looking worse for wear they still had fight left in them for the final battle. Tilana sat in her chair and looked around the bridge, her officers were exhausted but seemed to be renewed energy after the admiral’s speech they had heard.

Tilana sat there thinking about everything they had been through together as a crew. They had only been together for a few months but it felt like they have worked together for years. She hoped she could be that leader they needed right now and not end up in a mess because she made the wrong decision. The crew looked up to her to lead them and come out the other end.

Looking around the bridge one more time, she hoped she could lead the crew like Tajir had done. She hoped she could be that tactical leader they needed right now and not end up in a mess because she made the wrong decision, the wrong choice. The crew looked up to her to lead them and to come out the other end.

She looked out of the viewscreen at all the gathered ships of the Fourth Fleet and Task Group 514 for this final battle. Silence filled the bridge as everyone just looked on, waiting for the battle to begin. They had received their orders once the battle began, “status report.” She ordered as she looked at Aleish at the tactical console.

“Weapons are online and ready, shields are at one hundred percent,” Aleish responded giving one last report on their battle readiness. Aleish looked battered and bruised, she had seen what these monsters were capable of during the last war. Memories came flooding back full force as they sat there and waited, trying hard to brush them aside so she could concentrate on the here and now.

“You alright Aleish?” Tilana asked as she knew something was bothering her.

Aleish looked at her, “just distant memories coming back to the surface but nothing I can’t deal with.” Aleish replied looking at the commander, she knew her story as she shared it with her when they first received their orders.

She nodded “if you need anything let me know.” Tilana said as Aleish just nodded in response. Silence filled the bridge while they waited for things to begin, everyone on the bridge was looking out of the viewscreen waiting in anticipation for things to begin.

Aarven Ashatia walked onto the bridge as she wanted to be there for the final battle, she had rerouted engineering controls to the bridge. “Sorry I am late,” Aarven replied looking at Tilana who nodded. As she walked to her console she looked at Aleish she gave her a nod and a smile. Tilana had noticed a change with Aarven that she couldn’t place, her whole attitude and demeanor seemed to have changed as if overnight.

Commander Rayu Isha was as green as they come in terms of being a new commanding officer. This was her very first command and now they were about to get into their first combat situation. Isha had been on the tactical track throughout her career in Starfleet, she knew how to fight and she knew she could lead this crew into battle with an enemy that most of them have never faced before.

She had gotten lucky that they were taking out the orbital weapons during their mission at Lungurn. Not getting into the thick of things as the Saratoga and Gagarin did, now they were waiting for this battle to begin. The speech they had heard from Admiral Dahlgren was fresh in their minds, this was their final push to keep them from taking Farpoint Station.

She opened a shipwide communication, she had her speech to hopefully inspire her crew. “Attention crew,” she began then paused for a moment before continuing. “I know we are new to this ship and this squadron. I believe that everyone here will perform their duties admirably and pull together during this final battle.” Isha said looking around the bridge she saw those that were there looking at her. Listening as she spoke, “I know we are only one ship. Remember that we are not alone,” she said referring to the gathered ships at Farpoint. “We are all in this together, we will give our damn all from keeping Farpoint out of Dominion’s hands. We stand here together! We will fight until we have won! We are in this together!” Isha finished before ending the shipwide communication channel.

“Good speech sir,” Piyu said as he sat on her right side.

Isha looked at him and smiled, “thank you I just hope it was the push they need.” Isha said looking at him. He was new to this crew after being assigned from the Saratoga while they were docked at Starbase 38. He has been her support and was the reason why they were able to take out those orbital weapons at Lungurn.

“I am sure it was,” he replied looking around the bridge at the renewed energy that could be felt. As if they had something to fight for, something to keep safe was a motivation to keep going.

She nodded as they all sat there waiting for the enemy to arrive, waiting for the battle to begin. To say that she still wasn’t feeling the anxiety was farther from the truth, it hit her like a ton of bricks. She chose to hide it, to lead her crew into the fight of their lives, and to bring them all out on the other side.

Azras had been out of her chair and walking back and forth in front of her chair, everyone had been watching her. Walking helped her keep her mind clear and since she couldn’t leave the bridge to go down to the arboretum to walk around as she usually did. She figured here would be a better place than any until the battle started.

The doors to the lift slid open as everyone seemed to turn their attention to the new arrival. Jheria walked through the doors and nodded to everyone, she had finished the bulk of the repairs that she could do. The ship was battle ready, she took her station and rerouted engineering controls to her station.

She felt she could be more useful on the bridge during this final battle while her engineering team remained in engineering. Jheria looked out of the viewscreen at all the gathered ships. The anticipation of the arrival of both Dominion and Breen forces was felt throughout the bridge, the anticipation of the upcoming battle.

“Sir they have arrived,” Dazra spoke up breaking the silence.

The ships had begun to move to take on the enemy, this was it this was what they had been waiting for. The battle had begun, and the three ships moved heading for their targets as Azras took her seat. Space had begun to light up like the night sky with everyone exchanging fire. The Gagarin and Knight began to work together as the Saratoga began going for anyone who tried to punch through. The fight continued and they all were prepared to go down just to make sure the enemy didn’t win.