Bridge

“There's a quantum torpedo signature.”  Ohtani frowned.  ”Sir, the torpedoes were Starfleet issue."

After exchanging bewildering looks with Commander Allen, Kirby began processing what just happened.  “Is there anything left of the science facility?  Any chance there are survivors?”

“There's a large crater where the facility was,” said Hok.  “Initial analysis suggests whoever did this, fired the torpedoes with pinpoint accuracy.  It was like they intended to make sure nothing remained.”

“So no survivors.”

“No, sir.”

What the blazes was happening?  How did a routine supply run turn into a big mystery, a destroyed facility, and probably the loss of the nine scientists working there?

“Haia, I want to know what that ship was you detected.”

“I'll do my best, sir.”

“Nick, do what you can to help.”

“Yes, sir.  We'll get it done,” said Saunders.

While the crew worked, Kirby thought about possible explanations.  Was there a new Delta Quadrant threat previously unknown?

Silent time passed.

“Captain, we have an initial image,” said Saunders.  “We had to do some tinkering in the sensor records to find it.”

“On screen.”

A ship appeared, but it was out of focus.

“Enhancing image,” said Saunders.

Once the ship on the screen was clear, Kirby stood up and stared.  Stunned silence filled the bridge.  It was a Starfleet vessel, Diligent class, NCC-82715.  USS Eagle.

“What is this?” said Weaver, the obvious shock in her voice speaking for everyone on the bridge.

“I know this sounds crazy, but it's the Eagle,” said Saunders.

“Haia?” said Kirby.

“I did some deeper research into the sensor logs and I have an explanation, sir,” said Ohtani.

“Go on,” said Kirby.

“The other Eagle was orbiting above the science facility.  A temporal  wave was moving directly towards it.”

“A temporal wave?” said Kirby, interrupting.

“Yes, sir.  They fired torpedoes at the facility and were struck by the wave.  I don't know exactly what happened from their perspective, but I'd say there was a time jump and we're here seeing a future version of us.”

“Time travel.  I need a drink,” said Weaver.

“Something had to happen to make the captain…” said Allen.  “Excuse me, you, sir, order us to fire on the facility.”

Kirby knew the XO was probably right, but what could that possibly be?  He sighed deeply.  “Is there any way we can find out what happened?”

“I don't see how,” said Ohtani.  “If there was a time jump, and I'm certain there was, that time line doesn't exist anymore.”

“I definitely need a drink,” said Weaver.

“I think we all do,” said Kirby.