Captain’s Log Stardate 24017.4. The Kison is currently en route to Starbase 375, to receive new orders. With the emergence of the so-called ‘Lost Fleet’ I have become increasingly worried about venturing into these sectors. But nevertheless command has tasked us with ensuring every installation and ship in the area is fully stocked, for what I can only assume is big.

Nitus walks on to the bridge of the Kison. A whistle blows in the background, Nitus walks over to the center chair and sits down as she looks to her right towards T’Soni.

“Number One, open a channel to Starbase 38” she spoke plainly to her while sitting in the captain’s chair. “Channel, open,” she responded.

“Control, this is Kison requesting permission to dock,” she said.

“Kison, this is Control permission to dock granted. Welcome aboard Commander,” they replied.

The ship approaches Starbase 375, and docks to the station.

“Number One, Zahir with me. Enzo, the bridge is yours.” she said to them while standing up and walking off of the bridge followed closely by T’Soni and Arva.

“Yes, ma’am,” he said while getting up to sit in the chair with an officer coming to replace him at the helm console.

Nitus, T’Soni, and Arva walk into the ship’s airlock, they walk through the corridor inbetween the ship and the station and then into the station. Once aboard they are inside of a lounge they look around and go to a turbolift an officer just walked out of.

“Deck 1,” Nitus spoke plainly, the lift beeped in response then started moving. “I wonder why command has made us come here,” she questioned.

“Probably another resupply mission,” Arva responded.

“Agreed, mostly likely to Farpoint or Starbase 514. Due to the emergence of this so-called ‘Lost Fleet’ that has been rumored through the ranks. I have been dreading our vessel venturing near this area of space. We don’t know what to expect with this fleet seeing how it’s been some time since we have seen them but only a blink since they have seen us,” she stated to her officers.

“I’m inclined to agree, Captain.” T’Soni said, causing both Nitus and Arva to look at her intently. “I have been analyzing reports from those who have encountered this fleet. They are a formidable force, if we were to encounter just one of these ships the probability of winning is extremely low.”

“The Kison is strong. She might not have the speed of a Defiant or the strength of Inquiry or even the firepower of a Sovereign but she is tough and can withstand anything,” Zahir countered.

Just as T’Soni was about to respond to him, the turbolift doors opened up. They see standing in front of them, Admiral Rae Davidson.

“A- a- admiral Davidson!?” Nitus questioned with confusion very evident in her voice.

“Follow me please,” she said to them, smiling.

They stepped out of the turbolift and began following Rae down the corridor. They walk into the Admiral’s Office, and sit at a circular table in the right corner of the room.

“If I may, Admiral?” Nitus questioned her. “Yes, Commander” Rae responded.

“Where are we delivering the supplies. Also with all due respect what are you doing here? The last I heard of you were liasoning with the Klingons to discuss allowing us to venture through their territory.” she said, looking at the three officers before focusing back on Nitus.

“First I’m tasking you and your crew with traveling to Farpoint Station, and Starbase 38 and give them the supplies that is currently being loaded onto your ship.” she stated before continuing.

“As for what I’m doing here the talks with the Kliongs didn’t end well so the command made me the commanding officer of this station,” stated before continuing. “I’m sure you already know about the fleet of Dominion ships that have emerged. Command is task other ships with leading the front so you as well as other ships like yours are benign task with resupply and some SAR,” She states to them looking at the three of them.

Nitus looked nerves before asking, “What do you mean SAR?”

“Ships have been coming caught in inoti Nebula, and Black Cluster. Theirs also rumors that the First Federation has began to attack our ships that come to close to their space.

Nitus nods as she speaks, then looks at the other officers and stands up. “Understood, Admiral. We will be careful and check in in three hours. Rae responded by saying to her, “Of course. It was a pleasure.” she put her hand out for Nitus to shake.

“Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Admiral.” she said to her in response while shaking her hand. Rae then shakes T’Soni’s and then Arva’s. Nitus nods to her then turns to leave the office followed by her officers.

“Was that not your mother?’ Arva questioned.

“Indeed it was, Lieutenant.” Nitus responded unfazed. They continued to walk down the halls until they reached the turbolift they had only left moments ago they walked inside. 

“Docking Bay 3.”  Nitus spoke and the turbolift beeped then started moving.

“If I may, Commander?” Arva questioned

Just as she was about to answer, Nitus’ combadge beeps. “Hold that thought,” she said before taping the badge. “Nitus, here.” Enzo’s voice came through “Ma’am the supplies is aboard, we are ready to leave as soon as you arrive.”

“Copy, Ensign. We will be there in two. prepare the ship for departure,” She said to him. “Yes, Ma’am. De Niro out,” He said to her before the transmission ended. The turbolift doors opened and they walked out into the lounge, through the corridor, back on to the ship. They immediately go to the bridge. The doors open and they walk to their stations. Upon seeing Nitus is back aboard Enzo stands up going back to his station at the helm console.

Nitus sits down and clicks a button on the chair which opens a channel to the entire ship “Departure, stations everyone.” 

She looks over to T’Soni and says “Number One. Open a channel to the dock master.” T’Soni clicks a few buttons then nods signaling to her telling her the channel is open.

“Control, this is Kison requesting permission to depart,” she says.

“Kison, this is Control permission to departure granted. Godspeed Kison,” She replied.

“Enzo, clear us of all moorings. Set course one quarter impulse power,” she spoke to him. “Yes, Ma’am,” he replied. The ship disconnects from the starion and begins to move away from it.

“Set a course for heading 359 mark 45.7, warp factor eight.” Lucas lays in the course standing by for the order to leave. “Step on it,” she said to him.

The ship then took off at warp eight leaving the station behind and heading to the Deneb sector.

Captain’s Personal Log: Admiral Davidson has given us our orders. I do not like them at all. This ‘Lost Fleet’ is of great concern for me. With little to no information from command we are going into the danger zone and we are  blind. The admiral has given us barely any information so we are stuck with learning what we can in the field. 

Captain's Log, Supplemental. We are currently in orbit of Farpoint Station and are unloading the supplies onto the station. Everything has gone smoothly… so far.

The Kison can be seen in orbit of Deneb IV, a shuttle can be seen flying away from the ship. Nitus is sitting in her chair, the door behind her opens and T'Soni walks in. She walks to her seat and sits down.

"All the supplies are off loaded, Captain." She said facing Nitus before turning back to face her screen. "Thank you, Number One. Mr. De Niro, set a course for Starbase 38. Warp 6" she spoke to him while he tapped at his screen readying for his captain's command to leave.

"Step on it," she said to him. The ship continued on impulse before leaving the planet in the rear view.

She continued to look at the PADD in her hand, it should be the manifest of all the supplies that they are bringing to the starbase.

“Captain, we are receiving a distress call from a civilian freighter,” T’Soni stated monotonously.

“Can you locate the origins?” Nitus asked, looking up from the PADD. “I have, Ma’am. Should we redirect?" Enzo questioned. Everyone on the bridge then turned to look at her awaiting her next orders.

“Redirect to the signal, and send a priority transmission to Commodore Ekwueme. Put us on yellow alert,” she said looking at everyone. Before looking at the PADD once more trying to distract herself.

Captain's Personal Log: I have ordered the ship to redirect to a ship in distress. I know I've made the right decision but I hope I haven't put my crew in danger.

Captain’s Log, Supplemental. I had the ship redirect to a civilian freighter that was in distress. What happened to them is unknown but I can only assume that it has something to do with this so-called ‘Lost Fleet’.

The Kison is still at warp heading for the civilian freighter. Nitus is seated in her chair looking at a PADD thing about if she made the right decisions to redirect towards the freighter.

“Ma’am,” Enzo spoke to her. “We have arrived.” They come out of warp and are greeted by a civilian freight that has a massive hole in it and its cargo is floating around it.

“Number One, scan for any life signs even if it’s faint. Enzo brings us in closer. Arva prepare a security team to go investigate.” Nitus said to them, giving them their orders. “Yes, Captain,” they said to her in response.

“Captain, I’m showing multiple signs of life,” T’Soni said to her. “How many are we talking, Number One?” she questioned. “It appears to be three humans, two vulcans, and a romulan.” T’Soni responded to her question.

“Number One, Arva you two will lead an away time over to the ship. Locate the survivors, apply aid if necessary and get yourselves and the crew back to the Kison.” she stated them. “Yes, Captain.” They responded in unison.

They both stood from their seats and walked off of the bridge to the airlock with four security officers joining them.

Over on the Civilian Freighter

“There appears to be a federation ship nearby.” one of the humans stated. “Good, we need to get out of here before those ships return to finish us off.” another human said.

“It appears to be a Raven-class corvette. One of Starfleet’s smallest ships,” one of the vulcans said while looking at a display.

“Great, so they sent a dinghy to rescue us,” one of the humans said sarcastically. “I know that ship,” one of the romulans said, causing everyone to look back over to him.

“You know the ship?” A human questioned the romulan. “Yes. It’s the USS Kision. It rescued me and my crew a few weeks ago. The captain is one Commander Nitus, a half breed.” He said with emphasis on the half breed.

“Can we trust him?” One of the humans asked. “She may be a half breed but she does what’s right and always follows her gut.” the romulan replied.

A loud bang can be heard outside the door interrupting their conversation causing them to jump, then look at each other. The door then shoots open and T’Soni, Arva, and a team of security officers can be seen with phasers in hand.

They look relieved, and sigh heavily.

Over on the Kison

“They are all safe, no injuries. We should redirect back to Farpoint once we are back aboard.” T’Soni said to Nitus dryly. “Understood, Number One. Get back here as soon as possible. Nitus out,” she said to her in response.

“Ma’am, I’m picking up multiple incoming warp signatures.” Enzo paused then gulped. “They appear to be dominion.” He says before turning back to look at her with concern written all over his face.

“Shields up red alert. Get Mr. Zolath back over here immediately. Comms send out a priority message we’re about to engage the lost fleet. Relay to all frequencies and languages.”

Captain’s Personal Log: Upon arriving at the stranded ship we are awaiting our first encounter with this Lost Fleet. I know I made the right decision to help them but will it be at the expense of my crew.

Captain's Log, Supplemental. We are now standing by to engage the Lost Fleet. I only hope that someone comes to our aid.

The Kison was seen sitting in front of the civilian freighter. On the bridge Nitus was nowhere to be found. Enzo was in the chair looking at a screen to see how far out the nearest Starfleet vessel was.

Nitus walked onto the bridge, Enzo stood up and went back to his station. Nitus sat down at her seat. “What has taken them so long to warp here?” she questioned. “I do not know, Captain. Maybe they're going at warp 1 and are trying to scare us.” Arva responded.

Then three Jem'hadar Fighters warp in front of them. Nitus looked out of the viewscreen as terror began to write itself across her face. She turned to T’Soni and said, ”Open all hailing frequencies.” T’Soni turned back to her console before tapping a few buttons on it. “Channels open, Captain.” she responded.

“Attention Jem’hadar Fighters, this is Commander Nitus of the Federation starship Kison. Please state your business in this sector.” she said attempting to cover up her fear that was very evident in her voice.

“Our business… is… your… destruction.” they stated before opening far on the Kison. “Enzo, get us moving. Arva, open fire. Number one, send out a priority message to any ship in the area. We are engaging Jem’hadar Fighters.”

The Kison could be seen flying around the fighter going past their targets at high speeds. The ship’s six phaser arrays can be seen firing at the different ships causing some damage but not enough to incapacitate them, torpedoes can be seen flying hitting each of the three fighters causing some damage but not enough to help them win. Nitus could be seen sitting in her chair, her ship shaking violently, EPS  manifolds exploded all around her, and crewmembers flew across the bridge falling onto the ground.

The ship began to spin for a few seconds before stopping causing everyone on the bridge to fall out of their seats and onto the ground. The Kision’s port side now faces the fighters as they begin to assume formation preparing to attack them once more. “Report,” Nitus yells to the officers.

“We are leaking gasses into the cargo hold, life support is starting to fail across the ship, and shields are at 38% and failing, Captain.” Arava says to her, making Nitus more nervous than before. She had only been given command of the ship the month before and now she was going to lose it and possibly her life as well as the lives of her crew.

Seated on the bridge of the Duderstadt-class USS Serenity, Captain Mark Gilliam urged the vessel to go faster. Even as one of the fastest vessels in the fleet, they couldn’t get there fast enough.

“Sir, the Kison has engaged the Jem’Hadar fighters,” reported Lieutenant Commander Ekkomas Eidran. “They’re taking heavy damage.”

“That Raven’s got no chance against three beetles,” Captain Gilliam replied, his eyes looking forward at the viewer, watching the stars streak by as they neared the battle. “Vector us straight into the middle of the melee.” It was a reckless strategy. A better choice would have been to take a flanking approach. But there was no time. The Kison wouldn’t last that long.

The Kision’s port nacelle exploded. “Captain, we just lost our port nacelle. Our shields are now at 15%. We won’t be able to withstand another barrage like that.” Arva shouted to Nitus. This only made her feel worse; her fear started to consume her. Before she could let her fear engulf her she turned to Arva. “Lieutenant, prepare to aba…” she stated.

She was interrupted by T’Soni. “Captain, there is an incoming warp signal. It is Federation.” she stated.

The Serenity suddenly barreled out of warp, and immediately the bridge shook as polaron blasts intended for the Kison slammed into the Duderstadt class cruiser. “Open fire, everything we’ve got!” shouted Captain Gilliam from the bridge.

Aboard the Kison, T’Soni reported the arrival of the Serenity. “Captain, it would appear the USS Serenity has arrived and is blocking the ships from continuing their assault.” A smile appeared on Nitus’ face before she turned to Arva. “Mr. Zolath repair shields as fast as possible.” she says to him.

Meanwhile, in the duel between the Serenity and the Jem’Hadar beetles, a quantum torpedo found its mark. “Splash one,” reported Lieutenant Commander Eidran. A few seconds later, the Serenity’s forward phaser arrays carved up a second Dominion fighter. “Two down.” The third and final fighter came about, barreling head on towards the Serenity as its polaron cannons unleashed another salvo.

“I want that beetle out of my skies!” Captain Gilliam demanded as the ship shook heavily. He didn’t bother asking for a damage report. The Duderstadt-class rapid response ship unleashed everything it had, and the Jem’Hadar fighter began to flame out. But it just kept coming, straight towards the saucer of the Serenity.

“It’s going to ram us,” Eidran exclaimed. 

“This is the Captain,” Gilliam said over the loudspeaker. “We have incoming. Brace, brace, brace!”

And then all hell broke loose as the Jem’Hadar fighter collided with the upper hull of the Starfleet vessel. On the bridge, EPS manifolds exploded, pylons collapsed, and officers were launched from their consoles. Smoke billowed and sparks flew. But the shooting was over. All three Jem’Hadar vessels were no more.

As Lieutenant Commander Eidran got back to his feet, the Betazoid could feel the collective pain and anguish of the three hundred souls aboard. But there was something else, something very wrong. He looked over at the command island. Lying there on the ground motionless under a collapsed support beam was Captain Mark Gilliam. There, the Betazoid XO could feel nothing. He knew why before a medical staffer even finished running vitals. “He’s dead.” Lieutenant Commander Eidran was now in command.

“Damage control to decks one through seven. Get the fires out, the breaches sealed, and do whatever you can to get us back in fighting shape in case any more arrive,” ordered Eidran, pushing his emotions to the side as much as he could. The crew needed a leader right now. “And, if we still have comms, get me the CO of the USS Kison on the line.”

“Commander, the Serenity is hailing us.” T’Soni said to Nitus. “On screen, Number One.” The screen flickered before the screen was taken over by an image of Lieutenant Commander Ekkomas Eidran. Nitus face showed her surprise. “Ekkomas!?” she questioned in disbelief. The people on the bridge turn to look at Nitus as all of their eyes were given a questioning look to their commander wondering the story behind how these two knew each other.

“Nitus? Fancy finding you out here,” Eidran replied with a shocked but relieved expression, his happiness seeing a familiar face momentarily causing him to forget their present predicament. “What the hell were you guys doing out here solo with Jem’Hadar squadrons running rampant?”

“Commodore Ekwueme tasked us with bringing supplies between Fairpoint and Starbase 514. We were heading for the starbase when we received a distress signal from a civilian freighter. I had the ship redirect here so we could provide assistance and then this happened.” she stated to her old friend motioning to the destroyed fighters.

“We’ve been on patrol all week, trying to fill gaps in the Task Group 514 line,” explained Eidran. “That’s when we detected the three Jem’Hadar beetles heading for you.”

Behind Lieutenant Commander Eidran, a bruised Ensign at operations, still bleeding from under the ear but carrying on nonetheless, cut in: “Sir, casualty report is in. Twenty nine deceased, forty wounded.” The Duderstadt class vessel was a fast and highly instrumented vessel, but it didn’t have the medical facilities to take on that number of casualties. “The doc is running triage out of cargo bay three.”

Eidran turned from the screen momentarily to address the ensign. “And what about tactical and propulsion capabilities?” He was not heartless. He felt for the casualties. More than most in fact, due to his nature as a Betazoid. But if they couldn’t get the ship ready to fight or run again, they might all become casualties.

“Propulsion is in surprisingly good shape. Minor damage to the starboard nacelle, but our damage is concentrated on the forward saucer. We are down one forward phaser array and two torpedo launchers, but we can still shoot if we need to. Shields are still a work in progress though.”

Eidran turned back to the screen. “How are you guys holding up?” With the amount of incoming fire the Raven-class USS Kison had taken before they arrived, he was surprised she was still in one piece.

Nitus looked towards Eidran’s collar and was visibly taken back. “Lieutenant Commander. How are you in charge of the Serenity, Ek?” she asked him. “You aren’t even a full commander yet.” she said to him trying to lighten the mood.

Unfortunately, the question did anything but lighten the mood. Ekkomas Eidran glanced behind him where the body of Captain Gilliam still lay. “Captain Gilliam is dead,” he said, his eyes carrying a deep sense of sadness. The captain had only just given him a shot in the big chair as XO. It had been less than two weeks. But now here he was, acting CO. That thought shook him to his core. “And so here I am.”

Nitus was visibly saddened with his words. She started to regret acknowledging that he only had two and a half pips. As her head hanged low as she contemplated what to say next. A door opened behind her and the ship's CMO walked on the bridge. “Captain, we need to get to a medical facility, NOW!” he said to her. “Why? What has happened?” she questioned the trill. “Half of the crew is in need of medical support, our cargo bay is full of supplies, and even if it wasnt there is gas present. The sickbay is overwhelmed. We need somewhere to put all of these injured people or some will not make it.” he said to her.

“Commander,” offered Eidran from the bridge of the Serenity. “We’ve got engines and weapons. We can fix the rest en route. If the Kison is in a state to move, pick a destination and we’ll give you an escort.”

Nitus sat there and thought about it. “Let’s continue to Starbase 514. We can drop off their supplies, and while there we can get repaired. Also I'm sure they have a large enough medical facility to accommodate both of our ships injured,” she stated as she looked at the Trill who had stood next her, and then at the Betazoid on the screen.

“Take the lead, and we’ll cover your six.” With that, Lieutenant Commander Eidran signed off the link. There was a ton of work to do.

Nitus sighed heavily. She smiled then looked at each of her officers. “Enzo, set a course. Starbase 514, warp 7.” she said to him as tapped in the course. “Course laid in, ma’am. Waiting on you.” he said to her, relieved that he was able to make it out alive. “Step on it.” she said to him as the ship took off at warp speed leaving the freighter, and the destroyed fighter behind.

Captain's Log Personal Log. Today was very… eventful. We were attacked by the Jem’Hadar, and we still managed to recover the civilians from the freighter thanks to help from the USS Serenity. Though I’m wondering why the Lost Fleet was so keen on destroying the freighter. Maybe there was something of importance in their cargo bay like some Dominion weapons systems they were bringing to Starfleet for research. Who knows, I just hope whatever it is we get it before anyone else does.

Captain’s Log, Stardate 24017.9. It has been two weeks since our encounter with the lost fleet. My ship has been fully repaired and is ready to return to the stars. My crew though I’m not so sure about. At my request, command gave us another week to relax so they can grapple with the thought of them almost dying. Though they knew what might happen when they signed. We all did. My only hope is that they are ready to go back into the unknown. Commodore Ekwueme has already transmitted our new mission. It’s a search and rescue operation, we’re looking for one if our doctors that transport had gone missing. The USS Santos was meant to arrive here at Starbase 514 twenty hours ago. We are about to venture into the dark again. I just hope we make it back to the light.

The Kison would be seen still docked to the starbase via a cooridior connected to the ship’s airlock. On the bridge Enzo sat in the center chair. Nitus walked onto the bridge of the ship, and upon seeing her Enzo went to his station.

“Mr. D’Antonio, prepare for departure.” She said to him, Saying this caused him to turn and face her. His face showed that he was perplexed on why she would want him to leave when they haven’t received their next assignment.

“Do you have a problem with your orders, Mr. D’Antonio?” She asked him, her face showing no emotion. “N- No, ma’am. Preparing for departure.” He said hesitation very clearly in his voice.

“Set a course for heading 343, mark 34; maximum warp.” she said to him as he tapped at the console putting in the course. He sat there waiting for his commander to tell him to step on it instead. 

“Punch it.” she said to him. When she said this to him he became even more anxious. Even though they had only been together a few weeks, he knew whenever she said punch it instead of step on it that the situation was serious.

“Ma’am, may I ask something?” Enzo asked her. She sighed then looked at him, she could see the confusion and fear in his eyes. 

“I know what you’re going to ask. We are going on a search and rescue mission. A doctor has gone missing.” she said, speaking out loud. She looked at her officers and realized they all had worried expressions aside for T’Soni. “The ship that was carrying them is no longer responding to hails.” she said aloud which made her have a deep pit form in her stomach.

“They were last reported to be near the freighter we went to two weeks ago.” she said to them. “We don’t know what has happened to the Santos or the doctor. With that being said Mr. Zolath. Bring us to yellow alert, weapons hot. Prepare a zero-g assault team just in case.” she spoke, issuing him his orders. “Yes, ma’am.” he responded to her.

“Captain, we are approaching the target.” Enzo cut in. They came to a sudden stop in front of a derelict Constitution III-class ship, battle damage was evident across its hull. 

“Number One, scan the ship for any life signs.” Nitus said to her. T’Soni turned from the viewscreen to her console, she then tapped at the screen before turning her attention to Nitus. “I’m reading thirty life signs aboard.” 

“Hail them.” Nitus said to her. “Hailing, Captain.” She responded. T’Soni tapped at her console before turning back to face Nitus and nodding.

“This is Commander Nitus of the USS Kison, do you read me.” She said, waiting for a response from her hand came to rescue. “We read you, Kision, ” a feminine voice said.  Nitus sat there waiting on the imagine to show up on the screen as she couldn’t believe the voice she heard.  

The screen flickered then she was greeted by an all too familiar face. “Nitus, it’s good to hear your voice.” the woman said. “Scar!? What are you doing here?” Nitus said, stunned to see her old friend  “I was tasked with commanding this ship to escort a Doctor by the name of Zinn. He’s been captured by the Breen they were using Dominion ships.” Scarlett responded.

“So they’re working together again?” Nitus questioned. “It would appear so, Ni.” Scarlett responded. Nitus smiled at her, calling her by her old nickname. “What do you want us to do?” She asked.  

“I’ve already sent out a priority signal so we should be joined shortly. The Santos will be taken to Starbase 514. Where they will repair it and put it back into service.” Scarlett said before being interrupted by Enzo. 

“Ma’am there are three incoming signals” he said urgently before sighing and adding “they’re Federation.” 

The USS Xyston a Galaxy-class, USS Hawk a Inquiry-class, and the USS Bishop an Nebula-class dropped out of warp. 

“Captain, we’re being hailed.” T’Soni said to Nitus waiting for her response. “Open the channel, number one.” She said to her.  

“Kision, what are you doing here?” The Captain of the Hawk asked bitterly. “Commodore Ekwueme tasked us with investigating what happened to Santos.” She responded, trying not to sound rude.

“All ships with is Captain Christopher Davenport of the USS Xyston. Commanders of the Hawk, Bishop, Kison, and Santos report to the Xyston for briefing. XOs are welcome. Davenport, out.” He said before signing off.

“Yes, Sir on my way” Scarlett responded. “Yes, Captain” Nitus responded. “Yes, Sir” the CO of the Hawk said. They all signed off.  

Nitus stood from her seat. “Mr. Zolath, the chair is yours. Number one with me.” She said to them.

Nitus, and T’Soni walked off the bridge and went to the transporter room. They walked on to the transporter pad. Nitus nodded to the officer at the station signaling to them to energize. The familiar hum and the blinding blue glow of Federation transporters clouded their senses. They were then reconstructed on the Xyston. They stepped off the pad and were greeted by a rigelian female in a red uniform.

“Commander Nitus, Lieutenant Commander T’Soni. I’m Commander Kate Davis, the First Officer aboard. Please follow me to the conference room.” she said to them. “Lead the way, Commander.” Nitus respondes. 

They walked out of the transporter room and down the hallway. They turned a corner and walked down to the turbolift. They stepped on board, and then Kate spoke. “Bridge.” she said, and the computer beeped in response. “Kate, can I ask you something?” Nitus asked her. 

“What is it, Commander?” she responded, as she turned to face her. “What is your rigelian name?” Nitus asked her, trying not to seem insensitive. “My rigelian name is Koseisheed, Commander.” Nitus stood there looking at the ground before looking up at Kate. “Koseisheed?” she attempted to say it right. Kate smiled at her signaling that she had indeed said it correctly.

“You know you are the first person to say it right on your first try.” Kate said. “Really!? What’s the average?” Nitus asked playfully. “Usually they give up around their ninth try.” she said to her. “So not much of a comparison, huh?” Nitus asked jokingly.

“Yeah.” Kate responded giggling slightly. The turbolift beeped and the doors opened. They walked off of the turbolift and onto the bridge of the Xyston. Nitus stood there awestruck at its beauty. “Commander” Kate spoke before continuing. “This way.” she said as she stood on the other side of the bridge motioning to the door with T’Soni stood next to her. 

Nitus walked through the door to a hallway then walked down to the first door and Nitus walked inside. Once inside she could see that Scarlett, and Captain Davenport were already seated at the table. They looked at the door to see who it was. Scarlett upon seeing Nitus smiled and walked over to her. She then gave Nitus a hug which Nitus graciously took.

“It’s so good to see you, Ni.” Scarlett said to her, while smiling. “It’s good to see you to, Scar.” Nitus responded. They heard someone clear their throat and looked over to see Christopher was standing only a few steps away. “Commander Nitus, it’s good to finally meet you.” he said to her. 

Nitus looked at him confused then you continued. “I find it admirable that you defended that freighter with a Raven-class and still managed to get away. Very impressive, Commander.” He said to her smiling. She smiled back at him.

“Look at you, Ni. You’ve already gotten a reputation.” Scarlett said smiling to Nitus nuding her shoulder slightly. “It would appear so, Scar.” Nitus responded to her nuding her back.

“Please,” Christopher said before continuing “Have a seat, Commanders.” Nitus sat down across from Scarlett with T’Soni sitting next to her. The doors opened and the Captain of the Hawk walked in followed by his XO. Nitus noticed the ridges on his forehead and knew that he was a klingon; she also saw the three pips that were on his collar. Once on board he looked at Nitus in pure disgust as if he had seen a cockroach on the floor.

Christopher took notice and stood up. He walked over to him and extended his hand in an attempt to ease the tension. “Commander M’Ras welcome to the Xyston.” M’Ras shook his hand.  

“Thank you, Captain.” he said to him, forming what appeared to have been a smile. “It is good to be aboard a Galaxy-class ship again.” he said smirking glazing at Nitus. “You served aboard one before?” Christopher asked him. “Yes, sir. I was born on the USS Arquitens, and then served aboard for five years before being reassigned.” he said. “Althoght it is good to be aboard one once more.” 

“It’s good to have you aboard. Please.” he said. “Have a seat.” M’Ras nodded and walked on the other side of the table, he sat down near Scarlet. The doors opened again and the captain of the Bishop walked in. She looked to be human but had vulcan ears with long black wavy hair.

“Captain Devenport!” she said exited almost running into him for a hug much to the surprise of everyone else in the room including T’Soni even though you couldn’t tell by looking at her face. 

“Welcome back to the Xyston, Christana.” he said, hugging her back in a long overdue hug.

“It is sooo good to be back aboard, Captain.” she said before pulling away. Then she looked around. And started nodding before looking back at Christopher. “I have messed this place. Though the Bishop is a Nebula it just can’t beat the Xyston.”

Nitus then cleared her throat causing Christopher and Christana to turn and look at them. “Oh that’s right. Umm, Christana have seat we need to discuss something very important.”

“Starfleet Command has tasked us to go after a doctor. He is of the utmost priority and we must begin our preparations at once to retrieve him. Nitus you and Christana are tasked with exploring the southern edge of Dominion occupied space. Starfleet Intelligence assumes that he will be someone near breen space. M’Ras you and Commander Holland will go to the northern edge, the Xyston will be in the middle and don’t worry we will be joined by a Duderstadt-class for additional support.” 

“What about me, Captain? The Santos is too heavily damaged to be of any assistance.” Scarlet said to him. “Don’t worry a new Connie is coming to take you and the rest of the Santos crew. And commander please don’t break this one too.” he said smirking. Scarlet smiled back. “I’ll try not to, Captain.” she said. 

“Nitus their will be two Inquiry-class ships close by incase you or Christiana need it. We are sending you to the lion’s den. Be careful and watch each other’s backs. That goes for all of you. Understood?” he asked them. They all nodded in response. “Good, dismissed.” he said before standing up. Nitus and T’Soni followed suit when they were about to walk out when M’Ras stepped in their path.

“Move.” Nitus said angrily. M’Ras took a step forward to the point where he was only a few centimeters away from her, “Number One, go to the ship.” she said through gritted teeth. “Yes, Captain.” T’Soni walked outside the door. 

“I’ve missed you, Ni.” he said, smiling slightly. Nitus sighed heavily “As much as I hate you. I’ve missed you too.” she said looking around making sure no one heard her before looking at him again. Nitus looked down trying to avoid his stare. “Don’t look at me like that.” she said to him, blushing slightly.

He then put his finger under her chin and made her look at him. “Don’t look away when we are talking.” he said to her softly. “What if I don’t want to look at you?” she asked him looking at his eyes then to his lips then back to his eyes. “Don’t tempt me, Ni. Remember the last time that happened.” he said to her his lips inches for hers.

She then gasped and backed away. She smiled slightly then said. “Careful now, Commander. The human in you is starting to show.” she said to him playfully. Knowing that it would tick him off.

“I’m going to choose to let that slide, Ni. But when you are ready to talk. You know how to reach me.” he said before walking away. Scarlett then came up from behind Nitus spun around to face her where she could see her huge smile.

“What. Was. That, Ni.” she asked her. Nitus looked puzzled then it clicked. “That was my old boyfriend. We dated a long time ago back when I was an ensign.” she said dryly. “That didn’t look like what an old boyfriend. It looked to me like that were sparks.” she said smirking at Nitus. “No. No. No, me and M’Ras are completely done we have been their and we have done that. Never again.” Nitus responded before she tried to leave then Scarlett stepped in her path. “Ni, I can clearly see that you and him still have something. You should try and explore it but no pressure.” Scarlett said while smiling slightly and nodding. Nitus nodded in return then Scarlett turned and left the room.

Nitus once again moved to walk out of the room then Christina ran up next to her. “Hi, my name is Christina Davis, Commander in charge of the USS Bishop.” she said sticking her hand out to shake Nitus’. Nitus looked at her puzzled. “I know what your thinking. Why does she have vulcan ears but act so human? It’s because I was raised by humans. My mother passed away during my birth and my father and my aunt raised me and my younger brother.” 

“Intriguing.” Christina said aloud. You appear to be romulan but you carry different attributes of different species as well. If you don’t mind my asking. What are you?” she asked her. Nitus breathed trying to remember what her father said about her mother. “My mother was part human and klingon, and my father was romulan. So fifty percent of my genetics are romulan, twenty-five human and twenty-five klingon.” she said to me.

“Ladies. As much as I would love to hear the rest of your genetic makeup. We need to get underway as soon as possible. Please get to your ships.” Christopher said softly, trying not to sound hostile. They both looked at him and nodded before walking out. The whole way to the transporter room they talked to each other and got to know each other they both explained their childhood, and even their time in the academy. Upon Nitus’ departure she turned to Christana and said to her something she had been waiting for her entire life.

“Live, long and prosper.” she said to him before making her fingers do the vulcan salute. Christana smiled visibly, starting to tear up, and then she responded in kind. Then the hum of a Federation transporter filled the room and the blue light shined brightly.

Captain’s Personal Log. We have been assigned to go into Dominion occupied space. The crew is unaware of this but I have to tell them. I just hope they are ready for what is up ahead. I hope I’m ready.

Captain's Log, Supplemental. We are preparing to depart from the other ship all we are waiting on is the Daven, Scarlett’s replacement ship. Then we and the Bishop are ready to depart.

The USS Daven dropped out of warp, its impulse engine glow brighter and moved closer to the Santos. Twenty minutes later the Daven sent out a signal saying they were green to go and are ready for departure.

Then the Xyston hailed us. “Open the channel.” Nitus said to T’Soni. “All ships that the Xyston you are cleared to go to your set points. Be ready for everything. Godspeed, Captains. Davenport, Out.” he said before the galaxy class ship moved majestically past the ships then took off at warp speed toward the DOS.

“Well it's best we get going. T’Soni sends a message to the Bishop that we are ready to depart.” Nitus said smiling, turning her head to face her before picking up a PADD. “Yes, Captain.” T’Soni said, turning to her console. “Mr. D'Antonion set a course heading 259 mark 38. Warp 6, please.” she said looking at him before looking back at her console again. “Waiting on you, Captain.” Enzo said to her, making her look up from the PADD that was in her hand to the viewscreen.

Then she smirked and said to him, “Engage.” Enzo smiled and the ship took of at warp speed towards the DOS.

Captain’s Personal Log. I have no idea what awaits us in the DOS but I do know that whatever it is will meet the crew of the USS Kision. Though they are wary about going into the lion’s den they have shown no crack in their drive to keep moving forward.