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Star Trek Chimera: Phase II
The Final Season - Episode Two

“The Gateway To Nowhere”

High above Rigel V, the once serene expanse of space became a battleground, a theatre of chaos and destruction. The starships Dynehart, Siranna, and Bozeman, normally symbols of exploration and peace, were now thrust into the heart of a desperate struggle to defend what remained of Starbase Winston.

The opening salvo had been devastating. Six Solanagen vessels, their sleek, ominous forms materialising out of an anomaly like phantoms of destruction, had descended upon the unsuspecting base with ruthless efficiency. Space crackled with energy as their weapons unleashed a torrent of devastation, tearing through the station's defenses with merciless precision.

Starbase Winston, once a bastion of security and order, now lay crippled and vulnerable, its once-proud structure marred by fire and smoke. Escape pods, shuttlecraft, and workbees scrambled frantically, their hulls bearing the scars of battle as they raced to evacuate the wounded and the desperate.

Hundreds of officers, their faces etched with fear and determination, fought against time and gravity as they fought to escape the crumbling station. The airlock doors hissed open, and they poured into the waiting vessels, their ranks swollen with the injured and the wounded.

As the base began its inexorable descent into the atmosphere, the sky above Rigel V became a canvas of chaos and desperation. The roar of engines and the crackle of weapons fire filled the air as the defending starships launched a desperate counteroffensive, their crews pushing themselves to the brink in a bid to turn the tide of battle.

Amidst the chaos, Enrica Tye stood on the bridge of the Dynehart, her eyes fixed on the viewscreen as she watched the unfolding carnage with a mixture of horror and determination.

Enrica turned to T’ovath at tactical and nodded, sharing with him a look that he had seen before aboard the Khitomer. "Ready quantum launchers," she commanded, her voice cutting through the din of battle. "Target the lead Solanagen vessel and prepare to open fire."

T’ovath acknowledged Enrica, he took a deep breath and with that locked on the targeting scanners, hoping for a direct hit as Jody swung the Dynehart around a large detached section of what once was the primary docking area of Starbase Winston, swooping down hard in pursuit of the lead Solanagen ship.

“Now, T’ovath . . . Fire!” Enrica barked as she clung on to the back of Jody’s chair, the ship weaving in and out of the debris that littered the area above Chimera.

The quantum torpedoes were deployed with such ferocity that it looked as though they were ripping through the very fabric of space before smashing into their target, destroying the lead ship.

On the Siranna, Captain Rochelle Shaw stood tall on the bridge, her jaw set in a grim line as she surveyed the battlefield before her. "Erit, evasive manoeuvres," she barked, ordering her helmsman who only minutes ago, moments before the attack, had returned to the Siranna from the surface with the ships chief engineer. Shaw’s voice was steady despite the chaos around her. "Winston isn’t going down without a fight,” she said, before turning to her chief engineer, “Grant, how many survivors have we managed to beam aboard? I can’t keep the shields down for much longer.” She expressed as the Siranna took another barrage from the Solanagen’s pulse cannons.

“Just short of two hundred, Captain,” Lieutenant Pyra replied, his frustration evident, “I’m having to beam them aboard manually, the transporter targeting scanners are offline, the shear amount of tetryon particles being put out by that anomaly is wreaking havoc with our systems.”

“Understood, do what you can,” Rochelle turned back to the viewscreen, the starbase was going down and fast, “We need to buy Grant more time to beam over more survivors from Winston, keep the Solanagen from targeting our port quarter, bring us about but keep us within transporter range of the starbase.”

“Aye, captain,” Lieutenant Mason replied, altering course, piloting the Siranna with surprising ease.
"I do not intend leaving anyone behind…”

And aboard the Bozeman, Captain S'Vanna watched with a mix of concern and determination as her crew worked tirelessly to repel the enemy onslaught.

“Captain,” her tactical officer cried, looking up from his station, “We have as many survivors as we can carry, permission to raise shields?”

“How many are onboard," she asked.
“Just shy of four hundred souls, sir.”

“Acknowledged, raise shields and begin targeting the enemy craft,” she called out, her voice a beacon of strength amidst the chaos, “Fire at will!”

As the battle raged on, and amidst the destruction and despair, the Dynehart, Siranna, and Bozeman fought with a fierce determination, their crews resolve unshakable in the face of overwhelming odds.

*_*_*_*

As Starbase Winston plummeted through the atmosphere of Rigel V, the once-mighty station began to break apart, its structure groaning and shuddering under the strain of re-entry. Flames licked its hull as it tore through the sky, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, as the Dynehart, Siranna and Bozeman, having dispatched five of the six Solanagen vessels pursued it into the atmosphere, hoping to beam off as many survivors as possible.

Enrica Tye watched in horror as the viewscreen displayed the harrowing sight of Winston's final descent. Her heart sank as she realised that despite their best efforts, the starbase could not be saved. Tears stung her eyes as she thought of the lives lost, the dreams shattered, and the sacrifices made in defence of the station.

On the Siranna, Captain Rochelle Shaw felt a lump form in her throat as she witnessed the destruction of Starbase Winston. Her hands clenched into fists as she fought to maintain her composure, her heart heavy with grief for the lives lost and the friends left behind.

“Grant, lock onto as many as you can, beam them into the transporter buffers if necessary," she called out, her voice heavy with sorrow, hoping that her chief engineer could beam as many survivors as possible before the inevitable happened.

"Helm, steady as she goes," she said, her voice tight with emotion. "We'll ride this out as long as we can."

And aboard the Bozeman, Captain S'Vanna watched on as Winston's fiery descent continued. Her gaze was fixed on the viewscreen, her mind filled with of thoughts of the brave souls who had served aboard the doomed station.

"We'll mourn the loss of Winston," she said, her voice a solemn whisper.

As Starbase Winston's remains plunged ever closer to the surface of Rigel V, the crews of the Dynehart, Siranna, and Bozeman braced themselves for the inevitable impact as they pulled away at the last possible moment. The sky burned with the intensity of their shared resolve, a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dared to defy the darkness.

And as the wreckage of the once-proud starbase scattered across the planet's surface, a solemn silence fell overhead. But amidst the devastation, there remained a glimmer of hope—a beacon of resilience that refused to be extinguished. For though Starbase Winston may have fallen, its legacy would live on in the hearts and minds of all who had fought to defend it.

*_*_*_*

The atmosphere in the infirmary was nothing short of chaotic—a symphony of urgent voices, clattering equipment, and the pained cries of the wounded. Bodies lay sprawled across makeshift beds, their faces contorted in agony as medical personnel rushed to their aid.

Doctor Brandon Tyler, clad in civilian attire stained with the blood of his patients, stood at the heart of the turmoil. With steely determination, he hovered over a young officer lying on a bed, his hands working swiftly to extract a jagged shard of metal embedded in the man's chest.

"Hand me the haemostats," Brandon barked, his voice cutting through the din of the infirmary.

One of his nurses, her face etched with worry, hurried to comply, placing the instrument in Brandon's outstretched hand. With practiced precision, he clamped down on the shard of metal, his brow furrowed in concentration as he applied steady pressure.

"We're losing him, Doctor," the nurse called out, her voice tinged with desperation.

Brandon's jaw clenched, his focus unwavering as he fought to stem the tide of blood gushing from the officer's wound. With a grunt of effort, he finally managed to dislodge the shrapnel, tossing it aside with a grim sense of satisfaction.

"Apply pressure to the wound," Brandon ordered, his tone firm and authoritative. "We need to stabilise him before we can move him to surgery."

As his team sprang into action, administering fluids and bandaging the officer's wound, Brandon allowed himself a moment to catch his breath. The infirmary pulsed with urgency, every heartbeat a testament to the fragile balance between life and death in the wake of disaster.

"We're not losing anyone else today," Brandon declared, his voice echoing with resolve. "Not on my watch."

Across the infirmary, in triage, Kiay moved swiftly to tend to the gravely injured second officer from Starbase Winston. The Kazon officer lay on a medical bed, his face contorted in pain, his uniform charred and torn from an explosion.

"Get me the dermal regenerator and the bone knitter," Kiay commanded, his voice cutting through the din of the crowded room.

With practiced efficiency, Kiay assessed the officer's injuries, his heart sinking at the severity of the burns and the clearly broken arm. The man's breathing was shallow, evidence of the trauma he had endured.

"We need to stabilise his breathing and address the burns," Kiay directed, his voice firm with resolve.

As the medical team sprang into action, Kiay worked swiftly to administer several hypos of pain medication and oxygen, his hands moving deftly as he tended to the officer's injuries. With each passing moment, the urgency of the situation weighed heavily on Kiay's shoulders, driving him to push forward despite the overwhelming odds.

"The burns are severe, but we can save him," Kiay declared, his voice filled with determination.

Kiay and two of the junior medical cadets worked tirelessly to treat the officer's injuries, their efforts a testament to their unwavering commitment to saving lives. As they prepared to move the injured man to the the surgical bay, Brandon looked on with pride as he continued to work on his patient across the room, knowing that Kiay's skill and dedication would give the officer the best possible chance at survival amidst the chaos of the infirmary.

Amidst the flurry of activity in the infirmary, S'Lan moved with precision and grace, her calm demeanour a source of solace amidst the chaos. With her basic medical training, she swiftly assessed the condition of a young male officer who had suffered both physical and emotional trauma during the catastrophic events at Starbase Winston.

The officer lay on a nearby bed, his face drawn with grief and pain, his broken leg and cuts bearing testament to the horrors he had endured. S'Lan approached him with a gentle touch, her Vulcan stoicism a reassuring presence in the midst of his turmoil.

"Take deep breaths and try to remain calm," S'Lan instructed, her voice steady and reassuring. "I'm here to help you."

As she tended to his injuries, S'Lan listened empathetically as the young officer recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing his best friend's tragic demise. The memory of his futile attempt to save his friend weighed heavily on him, the guilt and grief threatening to overwhelm his fragile composure.

"You did everything you could," S'Lan assured him, her words a beacon of comfort amidst the darkness of his despair. "You are not alone in this."

With each passing moment, S'Lan worked diligently to address the officer's physical injuries, her steady hands moving with practiced precision as she applied the dermal regenerator to his burnt hands and face. But it was her compassionate presence and unwavering support that provided the greatest healing, offering him a glimmer of hope in the face of tragedy.

As the young officer's wounds began to mend, S'Lan remained by his side, offering him words of encouragement and solace. Though the scars of his ordeal would linger, she knew that with time and support, he would find the strength to heal and move forward.

In the midst of the chaos of the infirmary, S'Lan's quiet resilience and unwavering compassion served as a guiding light, offering comfort and reassurance to those in need.

Captain Shahn arrived in the infirmary, responding to Brandon’s call for any officers with basic medical training to assist. Having left H’ogan and Commander Annanis in charge in the command centre, Torrzas’ stern expression softened as he surveyed the scene, his heart heavy with sorrow for those who had suffered in the wake of the devastating attack on Starbase Winston.

Spotting Doctor Brandon Tyler amidst the flurry of activity, Torrzas made his way over to him, "Doctor Tyler," he greeted, his voice laced with concern. "What’s your status?"

Brandon looked up from one of his patients, exhaustion etched into the lines of his face. "Captain," he acknowledged, his voice weary yet resolute. "We have over two hundred survivors currently being treated in the infirmary, cargo bays, and adjoining sections. The medical teams are doing everything they can, but we're stretched thin."

Torrzas nodded solemnly, absorbing the grim reality of the situation. "I'll request assistance from the medical teams on Rigel IV and reach out to the Rigellian Government and Starfleet Command for additional support," he declared, “but it’s going to take them a while to get here, the SWIFT transporter network is down,” his determination unwavering despite the overwhelming odds.

Brandon's brow furrowed with concern as he glanced up at Torrzas. "Any idea what caused this?" he enquired, his voice tinged with urgency.

Torrzas's expression darkened at the mention of the attack. "It was the Solanagen," he explained grimly. "Six ships emerged from an anomaly and targeted the base without warning. We believe over three hundred personnel from the Winston are missing or killed in action."

Brandon's heart sank at the staggering loss of life, his thoughts consumed by the magnitude of the tragedy. "What are you going to do about it?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Torrzas's jaw tightened with resolve as he met Brandon's gaze. "The surviving Solanagen ship has jumped to warp," he revealed, his tone grave. "It's disappeared off sensors for now, but we won't rest until we've got the bastards."

With a nod of understanding, Brandon returned to the needs of his patient, his heart heavy with sorrow yet fortified by the unwavering determination of Captain Shahn.

"Is there anything I can do to help, Doctor?" Torrzas asked, his voice filled with determination as he rolled up his sleeves, ready to lend a hand.

Brandon met Torrzas's gaze, a flicker of gratitude shining in his weary eyes. "Head over to the triage area," he instructed, gesturing towards the designated section. "Help anyone who hasn't been treated yet. With the number of casualties we're dealing with, you shouldn't have trouble finding someone who needs help.”

With a nod of understanding, Torrzas made his way towards the triage area, his heart heavy with the weight of the suffering around him. As he approached, his eyes scanned the sea of wounded, searching for someone in need of his help.

His gaze fell upon a young officer, her face contorted in pain as she lay on a nearby medical cot. She was roughly the same age Elysiaa, and the resemblance tugged at Torrzas's heartstrings. With swift yet gentle steps, he approached her bedside, his expression one of compassionate resolve.

"Hello there," Torrzas greeted softly, offering the young officer a reassuring smile. "My name is Torrzas. I'm here to help you."

The young officer's eyes flickered open, a mixture of pain and gratitude reflected in their depths. "Thank you," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

Torrzas wasted no time, his hands moving with practiced precision as he began to assess her injuries. The young officer winced as he examined her burns, his heart clenching at the sight of her suffering.

"You're going to be okay," Torrzas assured her, his voice gentle yet resolute. "We're going to take care of you."

As he worked to treat her injuries, Torrzas couldn't help but marvel at the strength and resilience of the young officer before him. Despite the pain she endured, she remained stoic, her courage a testament to the indomitable spirit of Starfleet officers in the face of adversity.

With each passing moment, Torrzas's admiration for her grew, his determination to ease her suffering unwavering. As he tended to her wounds, he silently vowed to do everything in his power to ensure that she received the care and support she needed to recover.

In that moment, amidst the chaos and devastation of the infirmary, Torrzas found solace in the simple act of offering comfort and aid to a fellow officer in need. And as he continued to tend to the young officer's injuries, he knew that together, they would endure the darkest of days and emerge stronger, united in their resolve to overcome whatever challenges lay ahead.

As Captain Torrzas Shahn focused his attention on treating the injured officer, the infirmary buzzed with activity, the air heavy with the scent of antiseptic and the sounds of groans and cries of pain. Despite the chaos around him, Torrzas remained steadfast, his hands steady as he worked to ease the young officer's suffering.

Meanwhile, Kiay moved through the crowded triage space, sorting the patients in order of priority of their injuries with diligence and compassion. As he approached a patient in need of assistance, he suddenly found himself confronted by a new challenge.

A distressed officer, his eyes wild with fear and desperation, began shouting for attention, his voice echoing throughout the infirmary with an intensity that sent a chill down Kiay's spine. "I've been waiting for ages!" the officer cried, his tone laced with anger and frustration. "You need to treat me next!"

Kiay tried to remain calm, his heart racing as he attempted to reassure the agitated patient. "Please, sir, we're doing everything we can to help everyone," he said, his voice trembling slightly with apprehension. "I understand that you're in pain, but we need to prioritise those with the most severe injuries."

But the officer's agitation only seemed to escalate, his threats growing more menacing with each passing moment. Kiay glanced around, seeking assistance from S'Lan, who stood nearby, her expression one of concern.

"Counsellor, could you please help me calm him down?" Kiay pleaded, hoping that her calming presence might diffuse the situation.

S'Lan nodded, her brow furrowing with determination as she approached the distressed officer. "Lieutenant, I understand that you're in distress, but we need you to remain calm," she said, her voice gentle yet firm. "We're here to help you, but we need you to cooperate with us."

Despite S'Lan's efforts, the officer's agitation only seemed to intensify, his threats growing more alarming with each passing moment. Kiay's pulse quickened as he realised that the situation was spiraling out of control, the tension in the infirmary palpable.

Before he could react, the officer lunged forward, his hand clutching a sharp piece of metal. With a cry of shock, Kiay stumbled backward, his heart pounding with fear as the officer's eyes bore into his own.

In a split second, the officer's weapon found its mark, plunging deep into Kiay's side with a sickening thud. Pain flared through Kiay's body, his breath catching in his throat as he staggered backward, his vision swimming with dizziness.

Amidst the chaos that erupted in the infirmary, Kiay found himself clutching his wound, the pain coursing through his body like fire. As his vision blurred and his strength waned, S'Lan rushed to his side, her voice filled with concern as she attempted to stem the bleeding and stabilise his condition.

"Stay with me, Kiay," S'Lan urged, her hands moving swiftly as she worked to save his life. But despite her efforts, Kiay's injuries were too severe, too catastrophic to overcome. With each passing moment, his condition deteriorated, his breaths coming in ragged gasps as his life slipped away.

As medical personnel scrambled to tend to the wounded, their efforts overshadowed by the tragedy unfolding before them, Kiay's gaze drifted to S'Lan, gratitude and sorrow mingling in his eyes. He knew that his time was drawing near, that despite the valiant efforts of those around him, his fate had been sealed.

With a heavy heart, Kiay whispered his final words to S'Lan, his voice barely a whisper amidst the chaos surrounding them. "Tell Jody I forgive him," he said, his words tinged with a sense of resignation.

Unable to maintain her emotional composure and with tears streaming down her face, S'Lan whispered, "Kiay, stay with us. You're going to be okay." Her voice trembled as she clutched his hand tightly, desperately hoping for a miracle.

Brandon's heart pounded in his chest as he rushed over to the scene, frantically he tried to help Kiay, who was bleeding out on the infirmary floor, his hands shaking with fear and anguish. "Come on, Kiay, fight!" he urged, his voice cracking with emotion. Despite his fervent efforts, he felt a sense of helplessness wash over him as he realised the severity of Kiay's injuries.

As they held Kiay's hand, a heavy silence settled over the triage area, broken only by the sound of his ragged breaths. In that moment, their grief mingled together, forming an unspoken bond that transcended words. They knew that no matter what happened, they would carry Kiay's memory with them forever.

As Kiay's breathing grew shallow, he turned to Brandon and S'Lan, his eyes filled with gratitude and love. "I’m sorry," he whispered hoarsely, his voice barely audible above the chaos surrounding them. Despite the darkness closing in, he found solace in their presence, knowing that he was not alone in his final moments.

Brandon's heart weighed heavy with grief and frustration as he rose from Kiay's side. Turning to the other patients, their eyes filled with a mixture of shock and sorrow, he couldn't help but feel the weight of their collective pain.

"How could this happen?" Brandon's voice trembled with emotion as he addressed the room. "How could we let this happen?"

His question hung in the air, unanswered and haunting, as the reality of the situation sank in. They were living in a time of advanced medical technology, where miracles were commonplace, yet they had been unable to save one of their own.

Turning to S'Lan and his medical teams, Brandon's eyes bore into theirs, searching for answers in their somber expressions. "How could we fail Kiay?" His voice cracked with anguish as he struggled to comprehend their loss.

S'Lan met Brandon's gaze with tear-filled eyes, her own sorrow mirroring his. "I did everything I could, I’m so sorry Brandon," she whispered, her voice barely audible above the din of the infirmary.
“Not good enough, not good enough, damnit! He said, shaking his head, unable to compose himself.
"Sometimes, even the most advanced technology is no match for the cruelty of fate,” S’Lan said, as two science officers assisting with the injured covered Kiay with a sheet and moved him off the cold infirmary floor.

Her words hung heavy in the air, a painful reminder of the harsh realities they faced. Despite their best efforts, they were powerless in the face of tragedy, left to grapple with the agonising truth of Kiay's passing.

As the gravity of their loss settled over them, Brandon and S'Lan shared a silent moment of mourning, their hearts heavy with sorrow.
“I’m sorry,” Brandon said, placing a hand on S’Lan’s, “I . . . shouldn’t have snapped like that.”
S’Lan met his hand with hers and held it tight, “There’s no need to apologise. Pain, grief, anger. . . regret of not being able to do more for him. Despite my Vulcan nature and my upbringing and training, I feel it too, every last emotion. He deserved better…”

*_*_*_*

Captain’s Log,
3rd January 2450:
“It is with great sorrow and regret that I have to report the destruction of the Rigel V orbital weapons, research and engineering facility, Starbase Winston.
The starbase was completely destroyed and we mourn the loss of the now four hundred souls confirmed missing or killed in action at the hands of the Solanagen.
Using a tetryon based gateway, the Solanagen forced their way into our galaxy and took out the base that was established to essentially watch over us and the Rigel System for this very type of attack.
Whilst the irony is not lost on me, the crews of the Bozeman and Siranna, along with Enrica Tye and a skeleton crew aboard the new Dynehart were able to fend off the six Solanagen vessels that emerged from the anomaly to conduct their brutal assault.
However, one of their vessels remains at large and my first officer believes that the starbase’s destruction was a means to the Solanagen’s end, a way for them to enter our galaxy from their subspace realm and create a stable foothold into the Rigel System.
Early reports and sensor data suggest that the anomaly is growing larger, that the tetryon based vortex at the centre of the anomaly is kicking out highly charged subspace particles, converting the region surrounding it.
We are currently working on a way to destabilise the anomaly, but all theories suggest that in doing so will damage both normal space subspace irreparably, crippling space flight as we know it through the system.
Also, with the destruction of Winston, we no longer have the ability to utilise the SWIFT transporter network —its primary power systems and controls now gone with the loss of the starbase.
We now face a choice, leave the anomaly to grow and spread throughout the system, giving the Solanagen a foothold into our space or to destroy it and risk ending all space travel through the system, one of the most densely populated regions of the Alpha-Quadrant, an act that would cause untold chaos at the heat of the Federation.”

*_*_*_*

The senior crew assembled in the observation lounge, on today, which should have been Captain Shahn and Commander Hill-T’Malineu’s wedding day. The room was still dressed in traditional Trill and Latino decorations, following last night’s rehearsal dinner -a reminder to Rafael and Torrzas of how life in Starfleet can be so unpredictable.

Torrzas sat at the head of the table, behind him were grim statistics and sensor data displayed on the observation lounge display, offering various explanations and findings from the appearance of the anomaly to the destruction of and casualty list for Starbase Winston.

“Our best guesses suggest that the anomaly will encompass an area three times its size in less than forty eight hours,” Torrzas started, the grim reality of the situation sinking in to those assembled in front of him.

“Indeed,” Commander Annanis interjected, “we are already feeling the affects of the anomaly in the surrounding area, ships coming to our aid are reporting engine trouble, traversing the region directly in orbit of Rigel V.”

“How did they do this?” Larallis interjected, unable to comprehend the scale of what the Solanagen had achieved.

“It looks like they needed something solid in which to create their gateway,” Auria replied, nodding towards the captain for his approval to continue explaining what had happened, Torrzas nodded back, indicating for her to continue.

“The same thing happened years ago on the Enterprise-D, although on a much smaller scale. At the time, a small formation of energy escaped from the Enterprise, which after the events of the first encounter, Starfleet believed that energy to be that of a probe.”

“Yes, we had the same thing happen to us on the Khitomer, only last year,” Enrica said, a gateway appeared allowing them to send people back and forth for testing . . . It all makes sense now,” Enrica spoke, rising from her chair opposite Annanis.

“Go on, Commander,” Auria said, folding her arms, keen on hearing what Enrica had to say.

“They were able to cross more freely than when the Enterprise encountered their gateway. Eventually, on the Khitomer they passed back and forth without any hesitation or concern. I believe that their humanoid experiments were not the only experiments they were conducting, but more to learn how to traverse our realm more easily.”

“Agreed, this is the first time their ships have entered our galaxy,” T’ovath said. “They’ve clearly found a way of doing that otherwise we wouldn’t all be sitting around this table discussing them,” T’ovath remarked, his anger towards the Solanagen etched on his face for all to see.

“The fact that they’ve picked something as large as a starbase tells me they’re not fooling around this time,” Enrica said, looking Torrzas directly in the eye.

“They’re sending a ship,” Auria said, “A big one, they’ve already started converting the region around the anomaly into something more akin to their own subspace realm, they’re going to send something through. Something much bigger.”

“They’ve already sent ships through, Auria,” Brandon said, still mourning the loss of Kiay, still angry for all those that had been lost.

“They’re just envoys, testing the water, whatever’s next is going to be much bigger,” Annanis continued, her dark El-Aurian eyes settling on the captain, causing a sense of unease and foreboding to descend on everyone in the room.

“I recommend direct action,” T’ovath spoke, speaking freely, unashamedly. “We can’t just sit around here and wait, we need to destroy that anomaly now. This maybe our only chance at stopping them.”

“And risk loosing the ability to travel through space in this system?” Auria said, concerned at T’ovath’s suggestion.

“Look,” he said, “I’m not saying this as someone who was kidnapped and brutally abused by them, but what I am saying is, is if they can open these gateways at a drop of a hat, what else can they do?”
Tarrzas stood up and raised his hands, “Okay, that’s enough for now,” he said firmly, “I’ve made my decision.”
Everyone sat back in their chairs, all but T’ovath who sat forward in his, eager to hear what the captains plan was going to be next.

“After this is over, we can mourn, but first I believe that we need to track down the Solanagen vessel that managed to evade us.”
Torrzas made his way around the room, continuing what he had in mind, “Auria, you and Tomani work together to track down the vessel, the ship’s powered by tetryon energy, there aren’t many ships that use that type of energy, it shouldn’t be to hard to be able to locate them if we look the right way.”

“Yes sir.”

“Enrica,” he said, turning his attention to his chief engineer, “Head back up to the Dynehart, have her ready for departure as soon as possible.”

“Yes, Captain.”

“Larallis, T’ovath, H’ogan, I want you on the Dynehart too, we’ll be ready to depart once Auria has located the Solanagen ship.”

“Understood.”

“Brandon, S’Lan,” I know you’ve both got your hands full in the infirmary, but if you could join us on the Dynehart, I’d appreciate your expertise onboard.”

S’Lan looked at Brandon and then at the captain, “My place will be better served assisting Doctor Tyler in the infirmary. I believe I speak for both of us when I say, you should go find them, get the bastards, because no one else should have to die by the Solanagen’s hand ever again.”
Torrzas was quite taken a back by S’Lan’s clearly emotional display, even Larallis, her wife was surprised, but agreed with the sentiment nonetheless.

“Okay everyone, you have your orders, dismissed.”

*_*_*_*

Auria sat at her console in the command centre reviewing the sensor data, applying all sorts of filters to the information provided from the Dynehart, Bozeman and Siranna concerning the whereabouts of the Solanagen ship that evaded them.

Tomani worked separately, surveying sensor readouts from the long range sensor array on Rigel XIV, where he started to notice similarities between the disappearance of the fleet of ships that Morris detected yesterday during the night shift.

He turned to Auria, who was deep down the rabbit hole of sensor readouts. “Commander, I believe I may have found a trace,” he said, sending the data on his screen to the chief science officer.

“Okay, let’s see what you’ve got,” she said, folding her arms, looking at the information now overlayed on her screen from Tomani’s.

Both sets of readings appeared near on identical, indicating a possible course.

“As you can see, Commander, Tomani said, pointing at the screen in front of him and Auria confidently, “the ships were pointed in this direction when they dropped off our sensors, followed by a massive serge in tetryon particles. The serge culminates in the vessels disappearing, effectively blinding our sensors. But if you apply a negative electromagnetic filter to the carrier wave of the charged particles, you’re able to reconstruct a possible course for the vessels.”

Auria was impressed, clearly her tutelage of the young cadet was paying off. "Nice work, Cadet," Auria commended, a proud smile gracing her lips. "Let's transmit this data to the Dynehart immediately. We have a lead to follow."

With a sense of purpose, Auria initiated the transmission, the urgency of their mission propelling them into action. The fate of the Rigel System hung in the balance, and they were determined to confront the looming threat head-on.

*_*_*_*

Stood on the bridge of the Dynehart, Torrzas took in the sleek command centre with a mixture of pride and trepidation. Today should have been a day of celebration, a day of uniting his life with Rafael's in matrimony. Instead, the weight of duty pressed heavily on his shoulders, casting a shadow over the joy that should have filled his heart.

A soft voice broke through his quiet contemplation, and Torrzas turned to find Rafael standing behind him, his presence a comforting balm amidst the turmoil. Despite the gravity of the situation, Torrzas couldn't help but feel a surge of warmth at the sight of his beloved.

"I couldn't help notice you didn't give me any direct orders," Rafael remarked, his gaze filled with concern as he approached Torrzas.

Torrzas met Rafael's eyes, his heart aching with the need to protect the man he loved above all else. With a heavy sigh, he reached out to gently grasp Rafael's shoulders, his touch conveying both love and reassurance.

"I want you to sit this one out," Torrzas said softly, his voice tinged with regret. "Keep an eye on Chimera until this Solanagen thing blows over."

Rafael nodded, understanding the weight of Torrzas's words. Though his instinct was to stand by Torrzas's side, he knew that safety was paramount, especially in times of uncertainty and the possibility of Torrzas having to order him into a dangerous situation, one that could cast doubt on or effect the outcome of the mission if Torrzas or Rafael were unable to effectively execute their duties.

"Make sure you come home," Rafael urged, leaning in to place a tender kiss on Torrzas's cheek before turning to leave.

Torrzas watched Rafael's retreating figure with a mixture of longing and determination. Though their paths diverged for now, their love remained an unbreakable bond, anchoring them to each other even in the face of adversity.

"I promise," Torrzas whispered, his words a solemn vow to return to Rafael's side no matter the challenges that lay ahead.

*_*_*_*

As the crew gathered on the bridge, anticipation hung heavy in the air like a storm waiting to break. Torrzas surveyed the faces of his comrades, a mixture of determination and resolve reflected in their eyes. They were warriors, united in purpose and unwavering in their commitment to protect what they held dear.

With a steady gaze, Torrzas rose from his command chair, his presence commanding attention as he prepared to address his crew. He felt a surge of pride welling within him, a deep-seated admiration for the men and women who had stood by his side through thick and thin.

"All hands," Torrzas began, his voice ringing out with unwavering conviction throughout the ship, "we find ourselves at a crossroads, standing on the brink of uncertainty and facing challenges that test the very limits of our courage and strength."

He paused, allowing his words to sink in, the weight of their significance hanging heavy in the air. "But know this," he continued, his voice ringing with passion, "we are not alone in this struggle. We stand together as one, bound by our unwavering commitment to each other and to the ideals that define us."

Torrzas's eyes swept across the bridge, meeting the gaze of each crew member with a fierce intensity. "We have faced adversity before, and we have emerged victorious because of our unity and our resolve. Today will be no different."

A sense of determination surged through the room, palpable in the air as Torrzas spoke. "We will pursue the enemy with unwavering resolve, and if necessary, we will fight with every ounce of strength within us, and we will prevail," he declared, his voice echoing with unwavering certainty.

"But let us not forget the sacrifices that have brought us to this moment," Torrzas continued, his tone somber yet resolute. "We honor the memory of those who have fallen, and we carry their legacy with us as we march forward into the unknown."

With a final nod of determination, Torrzas concluded his speech, his words ringing out as a rallying cry to his crew. "Let us show the Solanagen that we are not to be trifled with, that we are Starfleet and we will defend our home and our loved ones with every fiber of our being. For today, we write our own destiny, and together, we shall emerge triumphant!"

The bridge erupted into a cacophony of cheers and applause, a symphony of unity and determination that echoed throughout the ship. Torrzas, buoyed by the unwavering spirit of his crew, felt a surge of pride swelling within him as he surveyed the faces of those gathered before him.

Torrzas' gaze then fell upon Jody Bush-Tel, who was poised at the helm, ready to navigate the Dynehart through the perils that lay ahead. With a nod of acknowledgment, Torrzas turned to Jody, his voice cutting through the din of the bridge with unwavering authority.

"Mr. Bush-Tel," Torrzas commanded, his tone firm yet resolute, "prepare to depart. Set a course for the Solanagen vessel engage at maximum warp. We have a mission to fulfill, and our journey begins now."

Jody's hands flew across the helm console, swiftly inputting the coordinates as he responded with unwavering determination. "Aye, Captain," he replied, his voice steady despite the weight of their mission. "Course laid in for the enemy vessel. Bringing warp engines online now, sir”

With a sense of purpose driving them forward, the Dynehart surged forward, its engines roaring to life as it hurtled through the vast expanse of space. As they embarked on their journey into the unknown, Torrzas felt a renewed sense of determination coursing through his veins, his crew standing united behind him as they prepared to face whatever challenges awaited them on the horizon…

*_*_*_*

Captain’s Log, Supplemental:
“It’s been three hours since we departed Chimera and despite our earlier optimism, we have had no luck in locating the Solanagen vessel. I am beginning to wonder if there is such a vessel, or if the trail that Tomani and Auria detected could have been created by another phenomenon.”

*_*_*_*

The tension in the air was palpable as T'ovath's urgent report pierced the silence on the bridge, sending a ripple of anxiety through the assembled crew. Torrzas's brow furrowed with concern as he rose from his command chair, his eyes fixed intently on the sensor data displayed on the main viewscreen.

"Sensors are picking up a vessel that corresponds to the tetryon trail," T'ovath declared, his voice tight with apprehension. "There is also an energy anomaly."

Torrzas's heart sank as he studied the unsettling information before him. The stars streaked by in a blur as he grappled with the gravity of the situation. "Auria, what do you make of this?" he asked, turning to his chief science officer for insight.

Auria's expression was grim as she analysed the data. "The energy anomaly appears to be some kind of probe, trapped in a tractor beam - it looks like the vessel that's holding it is Tholian."

Torrzas's mind raced with dire possibilities as he considered the implications of the Tholian involvement. "What the hell could the Tholians want with the Solanagen ship?" he muttered, the weight of uncertainty pressing down on him.

But before he could formulate a plan of action, T'ovath's voice cut through the tense atmosphere like a blade. "Enough of this," he declared, his tone urgent and resolute. "We've got to strike while we've got the element of surprise!"

Suddenly, the Dynehart shuddered, the ship trembling beneath their feet as its speed increased. Torrzas's heart pounded in his chest as he turned to Jody, his voice tinged with urgency. "Helm, what are you doing? We need to hold back, we cannot risk engaging the Tholians!"

Jody's expression was one of confusion and alarm as he looked up from his console. "Captain, it's not me, sir," he exclaimed. "I'm not in control of the ship. Helm control has been re-routed . . . to tactical!"

Before Torrzas could process the implications of Jody's revelation, chaos erupted on the bridge. T'ovath's determination had escalated into action, and the consequences were unfolding before their eyes. "T'ovath!" Torrzas shouted, his voice laced with desperation. "You need to stop this! We cannot risk engaging the Tholians alone!"

But his words fell on deaf ears as T'ovath vanished in a sudden burst of transporter energy, leaving Torrzas and the rest of the crew to grapple with the uncertain and perilous situation that lay ahead.

As H'ogan quickly assumed the now vacant tactical station, the tension on the bridge intensified to a fever pitch. With T'ovath's sudden disappearance the crew found themselves thrust into an even more dire situation with little time to react.

"He's beamed aboard a shuttle!" H'ogan exclaimed, his voice filled with shock and disbelief. "He's readying it for launch, sir!"

Torrzas's mind raced as he processed the gravity of the situation. Without hesitation, he issued a swift command. "Seal the shuttlebay doors! Don't let him escape!"

But before their efforts could be realised, chaos erupted as the shuttlecraft burst through the shuttlebay doors with a thunderous roar, its phasers blazing as it obliterated the once-secure entrance.

"Tractor beam!" Torrzas barked at Jody, his voice laced with urgency. "Lock onto that shuttle!"

Jody's fingers flew across the console, but his efforts were in vain. "No effect," he reported grimly. "He's remodulated the shuttle's shield harmonics."

The realisation sent a chill down Torrzas's spine as he processed the implications of T'ovath's actions. "Captain, Commander T'ovath is headed directly after the Tholian ship," Jody continued, his tone heavy with resignation. "He's laid in a course at maximum warp and has brought the shuttle's weapons online. He's gone, sir."

The weight of defeat settled over the bridge like a suffocating blanket as Torrzas's gaze swept across his crew, each face reflecting a mix of shock, concern, and determination. "It seems we have little choice but to follow him in," he said, his voice heavy with resignation. "Raise shields and ready all weapons. Red alert!"

The bridge erupted into a flurry of activity as the crew sprang into action, their movements precise and methodical despite the chaos unfolding around them. Torrzas's hands tightened around the armrests of his command chair as he braced himself for the challenges that lay ahead. With their chief operations officer gone rogue and a dangerous confrontation on the horizon, Torrzas knew that they were truly sailing into the unknown this time.

*_*_*_*

With the tension mounting and time ticking away, Torrzas relayed the dire situation to his chief engineer, Enrica Tye, who stood in the engine room of the Dynehart, her expression mirroring the disbelief and concern evident in his voice.

"Enrica, we've discovered an alien vessel and what we believe to be a Solanagen probe at the coordinates of the tetryon particles, but T'ovath has stolen a shuttle and gone after it — I need some way to stop him from making what might be a big mistake," Torrzas explained urgently, his words weighted with the gravity of the situation.

Enrica's heart sank as she processed the information, grappling with the conflicting emotions that surged within her. The man she loved, her partner, was on a collision course with danger, driven by trauma and a desire for retribution. She understood his pain all too well, having witnessed firsthand the horrors inflicted upon him and the crew of the Khitomer by the Solanagen. But now, his actions threatened not only his own life but the lives of everyone aboard the Dynehart.

"There's no response to hails, Captain," Larallis interjected, her voice tinged with urgency as she monitored the situation unfolding before them.

Desperation etched into his features, Torrzas hit his combadge and signalled to Enrica once more, pleading for a solution. "Enrica, can you disable the shuttle using the shuttle's security overrides?"

Enrica hesitated, the weight of the decision bearing down on her. To intervene would mean betraying T'ovath's trust and leaving him vulnerable to the Tholians' wrath. But to do nothing could result in catastrophic consequences for them all.

"I can . . . but it would leave him defenceless," she admitted reluctantly, her voice laced with sorrow.

"The shuttle's opening fire," Larallis reported, her words cutting through the tense silence like a knife.

With a heavy heart, Torrzas knew that decisive action was necessary to avert disaster. He instructed Larallis to open another hailing frequency, this time priority one, knowing that the transmission would be displayed on the shuttles main viewscreen. He straightened his resolve and addressed T’ovath directly, his voice firm and authoritative as possible.

"Lieutenant Commander T'ovath, I'm giving you a direct order: stand down at once. What you are planning is extremely ill-advised."

As the shuttle began its relentless assault on the Tholian vessel, the tension aboard both ships reached a fever pitch. Each blast of energy from the shuttle's weapons tore through the void of space, seeking to cripple its target. But despite the onslaught, the Tholian vessel remained eerily silent, absorbing hit after hit without retaliation.

It wasn't until the Tholian vessel sustained several direct hits that it finally stirred into action. With a sudden surge of power, it unleashed a devastating barrage of energy, targeting the shuttle's nacelles. The brand new shuttle lay crippled and adrift, its fate sealed by the merciless onslaught of the Tholian's retaliatory wrath.

Back on the Dynehart, in engineering, Enrica's fingers flew across the console, desperately transmitting the shuttle's security codes to the bridge. But even as the transmission went through, it was already too late. The shuttle hung motionless in the void, its systems offline and its crew trapped in a precarious position.

"Captain!" Larallis cried out, her voice filled with urgency as she relayed the grim news, "the shuttle's shields are offline."

Torrzas's jaw tightened with resolve as he absorbed the information, his mind racing to formulate a plan. "Understood, Commander. Beam the shuttle directly back into the bay and have medical teams on standby," he commanded, his voice steady despite the gravity of the situation.

"Aye, sir," Larallis responded, her fingers dancing across the controls to initiate the rescue operation.

But even as the Dynehart sprang into action, another crisis loomed on the horizon. H'ogan's voice cut through the tense atmosphere, his words carrying a sense of urgency that sent the tension levels on the bridge skyrocketing ever upward.

"The Tholians, sir," H'ogan reported, his eyes wide with alarm, "they're heading back towards the Rigel System, back towards the anomaly!"

Torrzas's eyes narrowed as he processed the implications of H'ogan's revelation. Without hesitation, he issued the command to the helm, his voice ringing out with determination.

"Helm, bring us about. Pursuit course, engage!"

*_*_*_*

As the shuttlecraft materialised in the bay, the medical teams sprang into action, their urgency matching the gravity of the situation. They moved swiftly, their hearts pounding with adrenaline as they prepared to tend to Commander T'ovath's injuries. But as they entered the battered vessel, their hopes were dashed in an instant.

The shuttlecraft lay empty, devoid of any sign of its intended occupant. T'ovath was nowhere to be found. Confusion and disbelief swept through the medical team, their minds racing to comprehend the inexplicable absence of the ship's commander.

"Ensign Whyte to the captain," Dynehart’s young lead med tech called out, her voice tinged with bewilderment. "The shuttlecraft is empty, no signs of Commander T'ovath onboard at all, sir!"

On the bridge, Torrzas's eyes widened with shock as he processed the startling news. He turned to H'ogan and then to Auria, his expression a mix of frustration and concern. "What the hell is happening?"

But before either H'ogan or Auria could offer any insight, Larallis's urgent voice pierced the air, drawing everyone's attention to the viewscreen. Torrzas's heart sank as he beheld the sight before him.

"Captain! The Tholian ship is entering the anomaly with another shuttlecraft!" Larallis exclaimed, her tone laced with urgency.

Captain Shahn's mind raced with a tumult of emotions as he grappled with the unfolding crisis. It was clear that T'ovath had once again slipped through their grasp, his determination bordering on reckless abandon. "This is ridiculous," Torrzas muttered, his voice tinged with frustration. "How could we let him pull the same trick twice?"

“It’s confirmed, sir, shuttlecraft two is no longer in its bay,” H’ogan expressed, utterly dumbfounded.

With a heavy heart, Torrzas watched as the shuttlecraft vanished into the anomaly, a sinking feeling settling in the pit of his stomach. "Open hailing frequencies, Larallis, now!" he commanded, his voice betraying a sense of desperation.

"Aye, sir," Larallis replied, her fingers flying across the controls as she initiated the transmission.

"Commander T'ovath, break off your chase," Torrzas implored, his voice filled with urgency. "You cannot follow them into their own dimension!"

Seconds passed, each one feeling like an eternity, until T'ovath's image appeared on the viewscreen. His face bore the weight of the situation, his expression a mix of concern and determination. "I wish I could comply, Captain," he responded, his voice strained with effort. "But they've got me in a tractor beam. They're not letting go."

As T'ovath's image faded from the screen, Jody's voice cut through the tension, his words a stark reminder of the grim reality they faced. "They're going in!"

Torrzas stood at the centre of the bridge, his resolve unwavering yet tinged with a sense of helplessness. He watched in silence as the ships disappeared into the anomaly, a feeling of dread settling over him like a shroud. "Yes, Chief," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "And there's nothing we can do to stop them…”

To be continued.

“The Gateway To Nowhere”
by Jonathan Crosby-Bromley

Starring:
Travis Van Winkle as Torrzas Shahn
Szabó G. Tailor as H’ogan Marsland
Uzo Aduba as Auria Annanis
Cynthia Nixon as Enrica Tye
Ruby Rose as S’Lan
Lukas Gage as Brandon Tyler
Angelina Jolie as Larallis
Rafael L. Silva as Rafael Hill-T’Malineu
Ryan Bailey as Artkin Sorr
Noah Petersson as H’arry Tye
Malte Gårdinger as Tomani Lorrne
Oliver Brynnum as Jody Bush-Tel
Eamon Farren as T’ovath

Guest Starring:
Rhea Norwood as Elysiaa Lorrne
Jake Harding as Kiay Thomson
Bobby Brazier as Grant Pyra
Derek Shaw as Erit Mason Jr
Callum Kerr as Ash
Dakota Johnson as Rochelle Shaw
Yasmin Finney as S’Vanna

“The Gateway To Nowhere,” is based on the Star Trek: The Next Generation DC Comics, “Gateway” and “The Unconquered,” by Michael Jan Friedman first published in 1995.
“The Gateway to Nowhere” and “Star Trek Chimera Phase II,” is a work of non for profit fan-fiction. Star Trek and all related marks, logos and characters are solely owned by CBS Studios Inc. This fan fiction is not endorsed by, sponsored by, nor affiliated with CBS, Paramount Pictures, DC Comics, or any other Star Trek franchise, and is a non-commercial fan-made piece of fiction intended for recreational use. No commercial exhibition or distribution is permitted. No alleged independent rights will be asserted against CBS or Paramount Pictures.

Image Credits:
Solanogen: Tom Spina Designs
Shuttlecraft: SCE2Aux
Adamant-Class: Pundus
Spacescape: Starkiteckt
Image composition: JonBromLE1

Description
Star Trek Chimera: Phase II
The Final Season - Episode Two

“The Gateway To Nowhere”

High above Rigel V, the once serene expanse of space became a battleground, a theatre of chaos and destruction. The starships Dynehart, Siranna, and Bozeman, normally symbols of exploration and peace, were now thrust into the heart of a desperate struggle to defend what remained of Starbase Winston.

The opening salvo had been devastating. Six Solanagen vessels, their sleek, ominous forms materialising out of an anomaly like phantoms of destruction, had descended upon the unsuspecting base with ruthless efficiency. Space crackled with energy as their weapons unleashed a torrent of devastation, tearing through the station's defenses with merciless precision.

Starbase Winston, once a bastion of security and order, now lay crippled and vulnerable, its once-proud structure marred by fire and smoke. Escape pods, shuttlecraft, and workbees scrambled frantically, their hulls bearing the scars of battle as they raced to evacuate the wounded and the desperate.

Hundreds of officers, their faces etched with fear and determination, fought against time and gravity as they fought to escape the crumbling station. The airlock doors hissed open, and they poured into the waiting vessels, their ranks swollen with the injured and the wounded.

As the base began its inexorable descent into the atmosphere, the sky above Rigel V became a canvas of chaos and desperation. The roar of engines and the crackle of weapons fire filled the air as the defending starships launched a desperate counteroffensive, their crews pushing themselves to the brink in a bid to turn the tide of battle.

Amidst the chaos, Enrica Tye stood on the bridge of the Dynehart, her eyes fixed on the viewscreen as she watched the unfolding carnage with a mixture of horror and determination.

Enrica turned to T’ovath at tactical and nodded, sharing with him a look that he had seen before aboard the Khitomer. "Ready quantum launchers," she commanded, her voice cutting through the din of battle. "Target the lead Solanagen vessel and prepare to open fire."

T’ovath acknowledged Enrica, he took a deep breath and with that locked on the targeting scanners, hoping for a direct hit as Jody swung the Dynehart around a large detached section of what once was the primary docking area of Starbase Winston, swooping down hard in pursuit of the lead Solanagen ship.

“Now, T’ovath . . . Fire!” Enrica barked as she clung on to the back of Jody’s chair, the ship weaving in and out of the debris that littered the area above Chimera.

The quantum torpedoes were deployed with such ferocity that it looked as though they were ripping through the very fabric of space before smashing into their target, destroying the lead ship.

On the Siranna, Captain Rochelle Shaw stood tall on the bridge, her jaw set in a grim line as she surveyed the battlefield before her. "Erit, evasive manoeuvres," she barked, ordering her helmsman who only minutes ago, moments before the attack, had returned to the Siranna from the surface with the ships chief engineer. Shaw’s voice was steady despite the chaos around her. "Winston isn’t going down without a fight,” she said, before turning to her chief engineer, “Grant, how many survivors have we managed to beam aboard? I can’t keep the shields down for much longer.” She expressed as the Siranna took another barrage from the Solanagen’s pulse cannons.

“Just short of two hundred, Captain,” Lieutenant Pyra replied, his frustration evident, “I’m having to beam them aboard manually, the transporter targeting scanners are offline, the shear amount of tetryon particles being put out by that anomaly is wreaking havoc with our systems.”

“Understood, do what you can,” Rochelle turned back to the viewscreen, the starbase was going down and fast, “We need to buy Grant more time to beam over more survivors from Winston, keep the Solanagen from targeting our port quarter, bring us about but keep us within transporter range of the starbase.”

“Aye, captain,” Lieutenant Mason replied, altering course, piloting the Siranna with surprising ease.
"I do not intend leaving anyone behind…”

And aboard the Bozeman, Captain S'Vanna watched with a mix of concern and determination as her crew worked tirelessly to repel the enemy onslaught.

“Captain,” her tactical officer cried, looking up from his station, “We have as many survivors as we can carry, permission to raise shields?”

“How many are onboard," she asked.
“Just shy of four hundred souls, sir.”

“Acknowledged, raise shields and begin targeting the enemy craft,” she called out, her voice a beacon of strength amidst the chaos, “Fire at will!”

As the battle raged on, and amidst the destruction and despair, the Dynehart, Siranna, and Bozeman fought with a fierce determination, their crews resolve unshakable in the face of overwhelming odds.

*_*_*_*

As Starbase Winston plummeted through the atmosphere of Rigel V, the once-mighty station began to break apart, its structure groaning and shuddering under the strain of re-entry. Flames licked its hull as it tore through the sky, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, as the Dynehart, Siranna and Bozeman, having dispatched five of the six Solanagen vessels pursued it into the atmosphere, hoping to beam off as many survivors as possible.

Enrica Tye watched in horror as the viewscreen displayed the harrowing sight of Winston's final descent. Her heart sank as she realised that despite their best efforts, the starbase could not be saved. Tears stung her eyes as she thought of the lives lost, the dreams shattered, and the sacrifices made in defence of the station.

On the Siranna, Captain Rochelle Shaw felt a lump form in her throat as she witnessed the destruction of Starbase Winston. Her hands clenched into fists as she fought to maintain her composure, her heart heavy with grief for the lives lost and the friends left behind.

“Grant, lock onto as many as you can, beam them into the transporter buffers if necessary," she called out, her voice heavy with sorrow, hoping that her chief engineer could beam as many survivors as possible before the inevitable happened.

"Helm, steady as she goes," she said, her voice tight with emotion. "We'll ride this out as long as we can."

And aboard the Bozeman, Captain S'Vanna watched on as Winston's fiery descent continued. Her gaze was fixed on the viewscreen, her mind filled with of thoughts of the brave souls who had served aboard the doomed station.

"We'll mourn the loss of Winston," she said, her voice a solemn whisper.

As Starbase Winston's remains plunged ever closer to the surface of Rigel V, the crews of the Dynehart, Siranna, and Bozeman braced themselves for the inevitable impact as they pulled away at the last possible moment. The sky burned with the intensity of their shared resolve, a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dared to defy the darkness.

And as the wreckage of the once-proud starbase scattered across the planet's surface, a solemn silence fell overhead. But amidst the devastation, there remained a glimmer of hope—a beacon of resilience that refused to be extinguished. For though Starbase Winston may have fallen, its legacy would live on in the hearts and minds of all who had fought to defend it.

*_*_*_*

The atmosphere in the infirmary was nothing short of chaotic—a symphony of urgent voices, clattering equipment, and the pained cries of the wounded. Bodies lay sprawled across makeshift beds, their faces contorted in agony as medical personnel rushed to their aid.

Doctor Brandon Tyler, clad in civilian attire stained with the blood of his patients, stood at the heart of the turmoil. With steely determination, he hovered over a young officer lying on a bed, his hands working swiftly to extract a jagged shard of metal embedded in the man's chest.

"Hand me the haemostats," Brandon barked, his voice cutting through the din of the infirmary.

One of his nurses, her face etched with worry, hurried to comply, placing the instrument in Brandon's outstretched hand. With practiced precision, he clamped down on the shard of metal, his brow furrowed in concentration as he applied steady pressure.

"We're losing him, Doctor," the nurse called out, her voice tinged with desperation.

Brandon's jaw clenched, his focus unwavering as he fought to stem the tide of blood gushing from the officer's wound. With a grunt of effort, he finally managed to dislodge the shrapnel, tossing it aside with a grim sense of satisfaction.

"Apply pressure to the wound," Brandon ordered, his tone firm and authoritative. "We need to stabilise him before we can move him to surgery."

As his team sprang into action, administering fluids and bandaging the officer's wound, Brandon allowed himself a moment to catch his breath. The infirmary pulsed with urgency, every heartbeat a testament to the fragile balance between life and death in the wake of disaster.

"We're not losing anyone else today," Brandon declared, his voice echoing with resolve. "Not on my watch."

Across the infirmary, in triage, Kiay moved swiftly to tend to the gravely injured second officer from Starbase Winston. The Kazon officer lay on a medical bed, his face contorted in pain, his uniform charred and torn from an explosion.

"Get me the dermal regenerator and the bone knitter," Kiay commanded, his voice cutting through the din of the crowded room.

With practiced efficiency, Kiay assessed the officer's injuries, his heart sinking at the severity of the burns and the clearly broken arm. The man's breathing was shallow, evidence of the trauma he had endured.

"We need to stabilise his breathing and address the burns," Kiay directed, his voice firm with resolve.

As the medical team sprang into action, Kiay worked swiftly to administer several hypos of pain medication and oxygen, his hands moving deftly as he tended to the officer's injuries. With each passing moment, the urgency of the situation weighed heavily on Kiay's shoulders, driving him to push forward despite the overwhelming odds.

"The burns are severe, but we can save him," Kiay declared, his voice filled with determination.

Kiay and two of the junior medical cadets worked tirelessly to treat the officer's injuries, their efforts a testament to their unwavering commitment to saving lives. As they prepared to move the injured man to the the surgical bay, Brandon looked on with pride as he continued to work on his patient across the room, knowing that Kiay's skill and dedication would give the officer the best possible chance at survival amidst the chaos of the infirmary.

Amidst the flurry of activity in the infirmary, S'Lan moved with precision and grace, her calm demeanour a source of solace amidst the chaos. With her basic medical training, she swiftly assessed the condition of a young male officer who had suffered both physical and emotional trauma during the catastrophic events at Starbase Winston.

The officer lay on a nearby bed, his face drawn with grief and pain, his broken leg and cuts bearing testament to the horrors he had endured. S'Lan approached him with a gentle touch, her Vulcan stoicism a reassuring presence in the midst of his turmoil.

"Take deep breaths and try to remain calm," S'Lan instructed, her voice steady and reassuring. "I'm here to help you."

As she tended to his injuries, S'Lan listened empathetically as the young officer recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing his best friend's tragic demise. The memory of his futile attempt to save his friend weighed heavily on him, the guilt and grief threatening to overwhelm his fragile composure.

"You did everything you could," S'Lan assured him, her words a beacon of comfort amidst the darkness of his despair. "You are not alone in this."

With each passing moment, S'Lan worked diligently to address the officer's physical injuries, her steady hands moving with practiced precision as she applied the dermal regenerator to his burnt hands and face. But it was her compassionate presence and unwavering support that provided the greatest healing, offering him a glimmer of hope in the face of tragedy.

As the young officer's wounds began to mend, S'Lan remained by his side, offering him words of encouragement and solace. Though the scars of his ordeal would linger, she knew that with time and support, he would find the strength to heal and move forward.

In the midst of the chaos of the infirmary, S'Lan's quiet resilience and unwavering compassion served as a guiding light, offering comfort and reassurance to those in need.

Captain Shahn arrived in the infirmary, responding to Brandon’s call for any officers with basic medical training to assist. Having left H’ogan and Commander Annanis in charge in the command centre, Torrzas’ stern expression softened as he surveyed the scene, his heart heavy with sorrow for those who had suffered in the wake of the devastating attack on Starbase Winston.

Spotting Doctor Brandon Tyler amidst the flurry of activity, Torrzas made his way over to him, "Doctor Tyler," he greeted, his voice laced with concern. "What’s your status?"

Brandon looked up from one of his patients, exhaustion etched into the lines of his face. "Captain," he acknowledged, his voice weary yet resolute. "We have over two hundred survivors currently being treated in the infirmary, cargo bays, and adjoining sections. The medical teams are doing everything they can, but we're stretched thin."

Torrzas nodded solemnly, absorbing the grim reality of the situation. "I'll request assistance from the medical teams on Rigel IV and reach out to the Rigellian Government and Starfleet Command for additional support," he declared, “but it’s going to take them a while to get here, the SWIFT transporter network is down,” his determination unwavering despite the overwhelming odds.

Brandon's brow furrowed with concern as he glanced up at Torrzas. "Any idea what caused this?" he enquired, his voice tinged with urgency.

Torrzas's expression darkened at the mention of the attack. "It was the Solanagen," he explained grimly. "Six ships emerged from an anomaly and targeted the base without warning. We believe over three hundred personnel from the Winston are missing or killed in action."

Brandon's heart sank at the staggering loss of life, his thoughts consumed by the magnitude of the tragedy. "What are you going to do about it?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Torrzas's jaw tightened with resolve as he met Brandon's gaze. "The surviving Solanagen ship has jumped to warp," he revealed, his tone grave. "It's disappeared off sensors for now, but we won't rest until we've got the bastards."

With a nod of understanding, Brandon returned to the needs of his patient, his heart heavy with sorrow yet fortified by the unwavering determination of Captain Shahn.

"Is there anything I can do to help, Doctor?" Torrzas asked, his voice filled with determination as he rolled up his sleeves, ready to lend a hand.

Brandon met Torrzas's gaze, a flicker of gratitude shining in his weary eyes. "Head over to the triage area," he instructed, gesturing towards the designated section. "Help anyone who hasn't been treated yet. With the number of casualties we're dealing with, you shouldn't have trouble finding someone who needs help.”

With a nod of understanding, Torrzas made his way towards the triage area, his heart heavy with the weight of the suffering around him. As he approached, his eyes scanned the sea of wounded, searching for someone in need of his help.

His gaze fell upon a young officer, her face contorted in pain as she lay on a nearby medical cot. She was roughly the same age Elysiaa, and the resemblance tugged at Torrzas's heartstrings. With swift yet gentle steps, he approached her bedside, his expression one of compassionate resolve.

"Hello there," Torrzas greeted softly, offering the young officer a reassuring smile. "My name is Torrzas. I'm here to help you."

The young officer's eyes flickered open, a mixture of pain and gratitude reflected in their depths. "Thank you," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

Torrzas wasted no time, his hands moving with practiced precision as he began to assess her injuries. The young officer winced as he examined her burns, his heart clenching at the sight of her suffering.

"You're going to be okay," Torrzas assured her, his voice gentle yet resolute. "We're going to take care of you."

As he worked to treat her injuries, Torrzas couldn't help but marvel at the strength and resilience of the young officer before him. Despite the pain she endured, she remained stoic, her courage a testament to the indomitable spirit of Starfleet officers in the face of adversity.

With each passing moment, Torrzas's admiration for her grew, his determination to ease her suffering unwavering. As he tended to her wounds, he silently vowed to do everything in his power to ensure that she received the care and support she needed to recover.

In that moment, amidst the chaos and devastation of the infirmary, Torrzas found solace in the simple act of offering comfort and aid to a fellow officer in need. And as he continued to tend to the young officer's injuries, he knew that together, they would endure the darkest of days and emerge stronger, united in their resolve to overcome whatever challenges lay ahead.

As Captain Torrzas Shahn focused his attention on treating the injured officer, the infirmary buzzed with activity, the air heavy with the scent of antiseptic and the sounds of groans and cries of pain. Despite the chaos around him, Torrzas remained steadfast, his hands steady as he worked to ease the young officer's suffering.

Meanwhile, Kiay moved through the crowded triage space, sorting the patients in order of priority of their injuries with diligence and compassion. As he approached a patient in need of assistance, he suddenly found himself confronted by a new challenge.

A distressed officer, his eyes wild with fear and desperation, began shouting for attention, his voice echoing throughout the infirmary with an intensity that sent a chill down Kiay's spine. "I've been waiting for ages!" the officer cried, his tone laced with anger and frustration. "You need to treat me next!"

Kiay tried to remain calm, his heart racing as he attempted to reassure the agitated patient. "Please, sir, we're doing everything we can to help everyone," he said, his voice trembling slightly with apprehension. "I understand that you're in pain, but we need to prioritise those with the most severe injuries."

But the officer's agitation only seemed to escalate, his threats growing more menacing with each passing moment. Kiay glanced around, seeking assistance from S'Lan, who stood nearby, her expression one of concern.

"Counsellor, could you please help me calm him down?" Kiay pleaded, hoping that her calming presence might diffuse the situation.

S'Lan nodded, her brow furrowing with determination as she approached the distressed officer. "Lieutenant, I understand that you're in distress, but we need you to remain calm," she said, her voice gentle yet firm. "We're here to help you, but we need you to cooperate with us."

Despite S'Lan's efforts, the officer's agitation only seemed to intensify, his threats growing more alarming with each passing moment. Kiay's pulse quickened as he realised that the situation was spiraling out of control, the tension in the infirmary palpable.

Before he could react, the officer lunged forward, his hand clutching a sharp piece of metal. With a cry of shock, Kiay stumbled backward, his heart pounding with fear as the officer's eyes bore into his own.

In a split second, the officer's weapon found its mark, plunging deep into Kiay's side with a sickening thud. Pain flared through Kiay's body, his breath catching in his throat as he staggered backward, his vision swimming with dizziness.

Amidst the chaos that erupted in the infirmary, Kiay found himself clutching his wound, the pain coursing through his body like fire. As his vision blurred and his strength waned, S'Lan rushed to his side, her voice filled with concern as she attempted to stem the bleeding and stabilise his condition.

"Stay with me, Kiay," S'Lan urged, her hands moving swiftly as she worked to save his life. But despite her efforts, Kiay's injuries were too severe, too catastrophic to overcome. With each passing moment, his condition deteriorated, his breaths coming in ragged gasps as his life slipped away.

As medical personnel scrambled to tend to the wounded, their efforts overshadowed by the tragedy unfolding before them, Kiay's gaze drifted to S'Lan, gratitude and sorrow mingling in his eyes. He knew that his time was drawing near, that despite the valiant efforts of those around him, his fate had been sealed.

With a heavy heart, Kiay whispered his final words to S'Lan, his voice barely a whisper amidst the chaos surrounding them. "Tell Jody I forgive him," he said, his words tinged with a sense of resignation.

Unable to maintain her emotional composure and with tears streaming down her face, S'Lan whispered, "Kiay, stay with us. You're going to be okay." Her voice trembled as she clutched his hand tightly, desperately hoping for a miracle.

Brandon's heart pounded in his chest as he rushed over to the scene, frantically he tried to help Kiay, who was bleeding out on the infirmary floor, his hands shaking with fear and anguish. "Come on, Kiay, fight!" he urged, his voice cracking with emotion. Despite his fervent efforts, he felt a sense of helplessness wash over him as he realised the severity of Kiay's injuries.

As they held Kiay's hand, a heavy silence settled over the triage area, broken only by the sound of his ragged breaths. In that moment, their grief mingled together, forming an unspoken bond that transcended words. They knew that no matter what happened, they would carry Kiay's memory with them forever.

As Kiay's breathing grew shallow, he turned to Brandon and S'Lan, his eyes filled with gratitude and love. "I’m sorry," he whispered hoarsely, his voice barely audible above the chaos surrounding them. Despite the darkness closing in, he found solace in their presence, knowing that he was not alone in his final moments.

Brandon's heart weighed heavy with grief and frustration as he rose from Kiay's side. Turning to the other patients, their eyes filled with a mixture of shock and sorrow, he couldn't help but feel the weight of their collective pain.

"How could this happen?" Brandon's voice trembled with emotion as he addressed the room. "How could we let this happen?"

His question hung in the air, unanswered and haunting, as the reality of the situation sank in. They were living in a time of advanced medical technology, where miracles were commonplace, yet they had been unable to save one of their own.

Turning to S'Lan and his medical teams, Brandon's eyes bore into theirs, searching for answers in their somber expressions. "How could we fail Kiay?" His voice cracked with anguish as he struggled to comprehend their loss.

S'Lan met Brandon's gaze with tear-filled eyes, her own sorrow mirroring his. "I did everything I could, I’m so sorry Brandon," she whispered, her voice barely audible above the din of the infirmary.
“Not good enough, not good enough, damnit! He said, shaking his head, unable to compose himself.
"Sometimes, even the most advanced technology is no match for the cruelty of fate,” S’Lan said, as two science officers assisting with the injured covered Kiay with a sheet and moved him off the cold infirmary floor.

Her words hung heavy in the air, a painful reminder of the harsh realities they faced. Despite their best efforts, they were powerless in the face of tragedy, left to grapple with the agonising truth of Kiay's passing.

As the gravity of their loss settled over them, Brandon and S'Lan shared a silent moment of mourning, their hearts heavy with sorrow.
“I’m sorry,” Brandon said, placing a hand on S’Lan’s, “I . . . shouldn’t have snapped like that.”
S’Lan met his hand with hers and held it tight, “There’s no need to apologise. Pain, grief, anger. . . regret of not being able to do more for him. Despite my Vulcan nature and my upbringing and training, I feel it too, every last emotion. He deserved better…”

*_*_*_*

Captain’s Log,
3rd January 2450:
“It is with great sorrow and regret that I have to report the destruction of the Rigel V orbital weapons, research and engineering facility, Starbase Winston.
The starbase was completely destroyed and we mourn the loss of the now four hundred souls confirmed missing or killed in action at the hands of the Solanagen.
Using a tetryon based gateway, the Solanagen forced their way into our galaxy and took out the base that was established to essentially watch over us and the Rigel System for this very type of attack.
Whilst the irony is not lost on me, the crews of the Bozeman and Siranna, along with Enrica Tye and a skeleton crew aboard the new Dynehart were able to fend off the six Solanagen vessels that emerged from the anomaly to conduct their brutal assault.
However, one of their vessels remains at large and my first officer believes that the starbase’s destruction was a means to the Solanagen’s end, a way for them to enter our galaxy from their subspace realm and create a stable foothold into the Rigel System.
Early reports and sensor data suggest that the anomaly is growing larger, that the tetryon based vortex at the centre of the anomaly is kicking out highly charged subspace particles, converting the region surrounding it.
We are currently working on a way to destabilise the anomaly, but all theories suggest that in doing so will damage both normal space subspace irreparably, crippling space flight as we know it through the system.
Also, with the destruction of Winston, we no longer have the ability to utilise the SWIFT transporter network —its primary power systems and controls now gone with the loss of the starbase.
We now face a choice, leave the anomaly to grow and spread throughout the system, giving the Solanagen a foothold into our space or to destroy it and risk ending all space travel through the system, one of the most densely populated regions of the Alpha-Quadrant, an act that would cause untold chaos at the heat of the Federation.”

*_*_*_*

The senior crew assembled in the observation lounge, on today, which should have been Captain Shahn and Commander Hill-T’Malineu’s wedding day. The room was still dressed in traditional Trill and Latino decorations, following last night’s rehearsal dinner -a reminder to Rafael and Torrzas of how life in Starfleet can be so unpredictable.

Torrzas sat at the head of the table, behind him were grim statistics and sensor data displayed on the observation lounge display, offering various explanations and findings from the appearance of the anomaly to the destruction of and casualty list for Starbase Winston.

“Our best guesses suggest that the anomaly will encompass an area three times its size in less than forty eight hours,” Torrzas started, the grim reality of the situation sinking in to those assembled in front of him.

“Indeed,” Commander Annanis interjected, “we are already feeling the affects of the anomaly in the surrounding area, ships coming to our aid are reporting engine trouble, traversing the region directly in orbit of Rigel V.”

“How did they do this?” Larallis interjected, unable to comprehend the scale of what the Solanagen had achieved.

“It looks like they needed something solid in which to create their gateway,” Auria replied, nodding towards the captain for his approval to continue explaining what had happened, Torrzas nodded back, indicating for her to continue.

“The same thing happened years ago on the Enterprise-D, although on a much smaller scale. At the time, a small formation of energy escaped from the Enterprise, which after the events of the first encounter, Starfleet believed that energy to be that of a probe.”

“Yes, we had the same thing happen to us on the Khitomer, only last year,” Enrica said, a gateway appeared allowing them to send people back and forth for testing . . . It all makes sense now,” Enrica spoke, rising from her chair opposite Annanis.

“Go on, Commander,” Auria said, folding her arms, keen on hearing what Enrica had to say.

“They were able to cross more freely than when the Enterprise encountered their gateway. Eventually, on the Khitomer they passed back and forth without any hesitation or concern. I believe that their humanoid experiments were not the only experiments they were conducting, but more to learn how to traverse our realm more easily.”

“Agreed, this is the first time their ships have entered our galaxy,” T’ovath said. “They’ve clearly found a way of doing that otherwise we wouldn’t all be sitting around this table discussing them,” T’ovath remarked, his anger towards the Solanagen etched on his face for all to see.

“The fact that they’ve picked something as large as a starbase tells me they’re not fooling around this time,” Enrica said, looking Torrzas directly in the eye.

“They’re sending a ship,” Auria said, “A big one, they’ve already started converting the region around the anomaly into something more akin to their own subspace realm, they’re going to send something through. Something much bigger.”

“They’ve already sent ships through, Auria,” Brandon said, still mourning the loss of Kiay, still angry for all those that had been lost.

“They’re just envoys, testing the water, whatever’s next is going to be much bigger,” Annanis continued, her dark El-Aurian eyes settling on the captain, causing a sense of unease and foreboding to descend on everyone in the room.

“I recommend direct action,” T’ovath spoke, speaking freely, unashamedly. “We can’t just sit around here and wait, we need to destroy that anomaly now. This maybe our only chance at stopping them.”

“And risk loosing the ability to travel through space in this system?” Auria said, concerned at T’ovath’s suggestion.

“Look,” he said, “I’m not saying this as someone who was kidnapped and brutally abused by them, but what I am saying is, is if they can open these gateways at a drop of a hat, what else can they do?”
Tarrzas stood up and raised his hands, “Okay, that’s enough for now,” he said firmly, “I’ve made my decision.”
Everyone sat back in their chairs, all but T’ovath who sat forward in his, eager to hear what the captains plan was going to be next.

“After this is over, we can mourn, but first I believe that we need to track down the Solanagen vessel that managed to evade us.”
Torrzas made his way around the room, continuing what he had in mind, “Auria, you and Tomani work together to track down the vessel, the ship’s powered by tetryon energy, there aren’t many ships that use that type of energy, it shouldn’t be to hard to be able to locate them if we look the right way.”

“Yes sir.”

“Enrica,” he said, turning his attention to his chief engineer, “Head back up to the Dynehart, have her ready for departure as soon as possible.”

“Yes, Captain.”

“Larallis, T’ovath, H’ogan, I want you on the Dynehart too, we’ll be ready to depart once Auria has located the Solanagen ship.”

“Understood.”

“Brandon, S’Lan,” I know you’ve both got your hands full in the infirmary, but if you could join us on the Dynehart, I’d appreciate your expertise onboard.”

S’Lan looked at Brandon and then at the captain, “My place will be better served assisting Doctor Tyler in the infirmary. I believe I speak for both of us when I say, you should go find them, get the bastards, because no one else should have to die by the Solanagen’s hand ever again.”
Torrzas was quite taken a back by S’Lan’s clearly emotional display, even Larallis, her wife was surprised, but agreed with the sentiment nonetheless.

“Okay everyone, you have your orders, dismissed.”

*_*_*_*

Auria sat at her console in the command centre reviewing the sensor data, applying all sorts of filters to the information provided from the Dynehart, Bozeman and Siranna concerning the whereabouts of the Solanagen ship that evaded them.

Tomani worked separately, surveying sensor readouts from the long range sensor array on Rigel XIV, where he started to notice similarities between the disappearance of the fleet of ships that Morris detected yesterday during the night shift.

He turned to Auria, who was deep down the rabbit hole of sensor readouts. “Commander, I believe I may have found a trace,” he said, sending the data on his screen to the chief science officer.

“Okay, let’s see what you’ve got,” she said, folding her arms, looking at the information now overlayed on her screen from Tomani’s.

Both sets of readings appeared near on identical, indicating a possible course.

“As you can see, Commander, Tomani said, pointing at the screen in front of him and Auria confidently, “the ships were pointed in this direction when they dropped off our sensors, followed by a massive serge in tetryon particles. The serge culminates in the vessels disappearing, effectively blinding our sensors. But if you apply a negative electromagnetic filter to the carrier wave of the charged particles, you’re able to reconstruct a possible course for the vessels.”

Auria was impressed, clearly her tutelage of the young cadet was paying off. "Nice work, Cadet," Auria commended, a proud smile gracing her lips. "Let's transmit this data to the Dynehart immediately. We have a lead to follow."

With a sense of purpose, Auria initiated the transmission, the urgency of their mission propelling them into action. The fate of the Rigel System hung in the balance, and they were determined to confront the looming threat head-on.

*_*_*_*

Stood on the bridge of the Dynehart, Torrzas took in the sleek command centre with a mixture of pride and trepidation. Today should have been a day of celebration, a day of uniting his life with Rafael's in matrimony. Instead, the weight of duty pressed heavily on his shoulders, casting a shadow over the joy that should have filled his heart.

A soft voice broke through his quiet contemplation, and Torrzas turned to find Rafael standing behind him, his presence a comforting balm amidst the turmoil. Despite the gravity of the situation, Torrzas couldn't help but feel a surge of warmth at the sight of his beloved.

"I couldn't help notice you didn't give me any direct orders," Rafael remarked, his gaze filled with concern as he approached Torrzas.

Torrzas met Rafael's eyes, his heart aching with the need to protect the man he loved above all else. With a heavy sigh, he reached out to gently grasp Rafael's shoulders, his touch conveying both love and reassurance.

"I want you to sit this one out," Torrzas said softly, his voice tinged with regret. "Keep an eye on Chimera until this Solanagen thing blows over."

Rafael nodded, understanding the weight of Torrzas's words. Though his instinct was to stand by Torrzas's side, he knew that safety was paramount, especially in times of uncertainty and the possibility of Torrzas having to order him into a dangerous situation, one that could cast doubt on or effect the outcome of the mission if Torrzas or Rafael were unable to effectively execute their duties.

"Make sure you come home," Rafael urged, leaning in to place a tender kiss on Torrzas's cheek before turning to leave.

Torrzas watched Rafael's retreating figure with a mixture of longing and determination. Though their paths diverged for now, their love remained an unbreakable bond, anchoring them to each other even in the face of adversity.

"I promise," Torrzas whispered, his words a solemn vow to return to Rafael's side no matter the challenges that lay ahead.

*_*_*_*

As the crew gathered on the bridge, anticipation hung heavy in the air like a storm waiting to break. Torrzas surveyed the faces of his comrades, a mixture of determination and resolve reflected in their eyes. They were warriors, united in purpose and unwavering in their commitment to protect what they held dear.

With a steady gaze, Torrzas rose from his command chair, his presence commanding attention as he prepared to address his crew. He felt a surge of pride welling within him, a deep-seated admiration for the men and women who had stood by his side through thick and thin.

"All hands," Torrzas began, his voice ringing out with unwavering conviction throughout the ship, "we find ourselves at a crossroads, standing on the brink of uncertainty and facing challenges that test the very limits of our courage and strength."

He paused, allowing his words to sink in, the weight of their significance hanging heavy in the air. "But know this," he continued, his voice ringing with passion, "we are not alone in this struggle. We stand together as one, bound by our unwavering commitment to each other and to the ideals that define us."

Torrzas's eyes swept across the bridge, meeting the gaze of each crew member with a fierce intensity. "We have faced adversity before, and we have emerged victorious because of our unity and our resolve. Today will be no different."

A sense of determination surged through the room, palpable in the air as Torrzas spoke. "We will pursue the enemy with unwavering resolve, and if necessary, we will fight with every ounce of strength within us, and we will prevail," he declared, his voice echoing with unwavering certainty.

"But let us not forget the sacrifices that have brought us to this moment," Torrzas continued, his tone somber yet resolute. "We honor the memory of those who have fallen, and we carry their legacy with us as we march forward into the unknown."

With a final nod of determination, Torrzas concluded his speech, his words ringing out as a rallying cry to his crew. "Let us show the Solanagen that we are not to be trifled with, that we are Starfleet and we will defend our home and our loved ones with every fiber of our being. For today, we write our own destiny, and together, we shall emerge triumphant!"

The bridge erupted into a cacophony of cheers and applause, a symphony of unity and determination that echoed throughout the ship. Torrzas, buoyed by the unwavering spirit of his crew, felt a surge of pride swelling within him as he surveyed the faces of those gathered before him.

Torrzas' gaze then fell upon Jody Bush-Tel, who was poised at the helm, ready to navigate the Dynehart through the perils that lay ahead. With a nod of acknowledgment, Torrzas turned to Jody, his voice cutting through the din of the bridge with unwavering authority.

"Mr. Bush-Tel," Torrzas commanded, his tone firm yet resolute, "prepare to depart. Set a course for the Solanagen vessel engage at maximum warp. We have a mission to fulfill, and our journey begins now."

Jody's hands flew across the helm console, swiftly inputting the coordinates as he responded with unwavering determination. "Aye, Captain," he replied, his voice steady despite the weight of their mission. "Course laid in for the enemy vessel. Bringing warp engines online now, sir”

With a sense of purpose driving them forward, the Dynehart surged forward, its engines roaring to life as it hurtled through the vast expanse of space. As they embarked on their journey into the unknown, Torrzas felt a renewed sense of determination coursing through his veins, his crew standing united behind him as they prepared to face whatever challenges awaited them on the horizon…

*_*_*_*

Captain’s Log, Supplemental:
“It’s been three hours since we departed Chimera and despite our earlier optimism, we have had no luck in locating the Solanagen vessel. I am beginning to wonder if there is such a vessel, or if the trail that Tomani and Auria detected could have been created by another phenomenon.”

*_*_*_*

The tension in the air was palpable as T'ovath's urgent report pierced the silence on the bridge, sending a ripple of anxiety through the assembled crew. Torrzas's brow furrowed with concern as he rose from his command chair, his eyes fixed intently on the sensor data displayed on the main viewscreen.

"Sensors are picking up a vessel that corresponds to the tetryon trail," T'ovath declared, his voice tight with apprehension. "There is also an energy anomaly."

Torrzas's heart sank as he studied the unsettling information before him. The stars streaked by in a blur as he grappled with the gravity of the situation. "Auria, what do you make of this?" he asked, turning to his chief science officer for insight.

Auria's expression was grim as she analysed the data. "The energy anomaly appears to be some kind of probe, trapped in a tractor beam - it looks like the vessel that's holding it is Tholian."

Torrzas's mind raced with dire possibilities as he considered the implications of the Tholian involvement. "What the hell could the Tholians want with the Solanagen ship?" he muttered, the weight of uncertainty pressing down on him.

But before he could formulate a plan of action, T'ovath's voice cut through the tense atmosphere like a blade. "Enough of this," he declared, his tone urgent and resolute. "We've got to strike while we've got the element of surprise!"

Suddenly, the Dynehart shuddered, the ship trembling beneath their feet as its speed increased. Torrzas's heart pounded in his chest as he turned to Jody, his voice tinged with urgency. "Helm, what are you doing? We need to hold back, we cannot risk engaging the Tholians!"

Jody's expression was one of confusion and alarm as he looked up from his console. "Captain, it's not me, sir," he exclaimed. "I'm not in control of the ship. Helm control has been re-routed . . . to tactical!"

Before Torrzas could process the implications of Jody's revelation, chaos erupted on the bridge. T'ovath's determination had escalated into action, and the consequences were unfolding before their eyes. "T'ovath!" Torrzas shouted, his voice laced with desperation. "You need to stop this! We cannot risk engaging the Tholians alone!"

But his words fell on deaf ears as T'ovath vanished in a sudden burst of transporter energy, leaving Torrzas and the rest of the crew to grapple with the uncertain and perilous situation that lay ahead.

As H'ogan quickly assumed the now vacant tactical station, the tension on the bridge intensified to a fever pitch. With T'ovath's sudden disappearance the crew found themselves thrust into an even more dire situation with little time to react.

"He's beamed aboard a shuttle!" H'ogan exclaimed, his voice filled with shock and disbelief. "He's readying it for launch, sir!"

Torrzas's mind raced as he processed the gravity of the situation. Without hesitation, he issued a swift command. "Seal the shuttlebay doors! Don't let him escape!"

But before their efforts could be realised, chaos erupted as the shuttlecraft burst through the shuttlebay doors with a thunderous roar, its phasers blazing as it obliterated the once-secure entrance.

"Tractor beam!" Torrzas barked at Jody, his voice laced with urgency. "Lock onto that shuttle!"

Jody's fingers flew across the console, but his efforts were in vain. "No effect," he reported grimly. "He's remodulated the shuttle's shield harmonics."

The realisation sent a chill down Torrzas's spine as he processed the implications of T'ovath's actions. "Captain, Commander T'ovath is headed directly after the Tholian ship," Jody continued, his tone heavy with resignation. "He's laid in a course at maximum warp and has brought the shuttle's weapons online. He's gone, sir."

The weight of defeat settled over the bridge like a suffocating blanket as Torrzas's gaze swept across his crew, each face reflecting a mix of shock, concern, and determination. "It seems we have little choice but to follow him in," he said, his voice heavy with resignation. "Raise shields and ready all weapons. Red alert!"

The bridge erupted into a flurry of activity as the crew sprang into action, their movements precise and methodical despite the chaos unfolding around them. Torrzas's hands tightened around the armrests of his command chair as he braced himself for the challenges that lay ahead. With their chief operations officer gone rogue and a dangerous confrontation on the horizon, Torrzas knew that they were truly sailing into the unknown this time.

*_*_*_*

With the tension mounting and time ticking away, Torrzas relayed the dire situation to his chief engineer, Enrica Tye, who stood in the engine room of the Dynehart, her expression mirroring the disbelief and concern evident in his voice.

"Enrica, we've discovered an alien vessel and what we believe to be a Solanagen probe at the coordinates of the tetryon particles, but T'ovath has stolen a shuttle and gone after it — I need some way to stop him from making what might be a big mistake," Torrzas explained urgently, his words weighted with the gravity of the situation.

Enrica's heart sank as she processed the information, grappling with the conflicting emotions that surged within her. The man she loved, her partner, was on a collision course with danger, driven by trauma and a desire for retribution. She understood his pain all too well, having witnessed firsthand the horrors inflicted upon him and the crew of the Khitomer by the Solanagen. But now, his actions threatened not only his own life but the lives of everyone aboard the Dynehart.

"There's no response to hails, Captain," Larallis interjected, her voice tinged with urgency as she monitored the situation unfolding before them.

Desperation etched into his features, Torrzas hit his combadge and signalled to Enrica once more, pleading for a solution. "Enrica, can you disable the shuttle using the shuttle's security overrides?"

Enrica hesitated, the weight of the decision bearing down on her. To intervene would mean betraying T'ovath's trust and leaving him vulnerable to the Tholians' wrath. But to do nothing could result in catastrophic consequences for them all.

"I can . . . but it would leave him defenceless," she admitted reluctantly, her voice laced with sorrow.

"The shuttle's opening fire," Larallis reported, her words cutting through the tense silence like a knife.

With a heavy heart, Torrzas knew that decisive action was necessary to avert disaster. He instructed Larallis to open another hailing frequency, this time priority one, knowing that the transmission would be displayed on the shuttles main viewscreen. He straightened his resolve and addressed T’ovath directly, his voice firm and authoritative as possible.

"Lieutenant Commander T'ovath, I'm giving you a direct order: stand down at once. What you are planning is extremely ill-advised."

As the shuttle began its relentless assault on the Tholian vessel, the tension aboard both ships reached a fever pitch. Each blast of energy from the shuttle's weapons tore through the void of space, seeking to cripple its target. But despite the onslaught, the Tholian vessel remained eerily silent, absorbing hit after hit without retaliation.

It wasn't until the Tholian vessel sustained several direct hits that it finally stirred into action. With a sudden surge of power, it unleashed a devastating barrage of energy, targeting the shuttle's nacelles. The brand new shuttle lay crippled and adrift, its fate sealed by the merciless onslaught of the Tholian's retaliatory wrath.

Back on the Dynehart, in engineering, Enrica's fingers flew across the console, desperately transmitting the shuttle's security codes to the bridge. But even as the transmission went through, it was already too late. The shuttle hung motionless in the void, its systems offline and its crew trapped in a precarious position.

"Captain!" Larallis cried out, her voice filled with urgency as she relayed the grim news, "the shuttle's shields are offline."

Torrzas's jaw tightened with resolve as he absorbed the information, his mind racing to formulate a plan. "Understood, Commander. Beam the shuttle directly back into the bay and have medical teams on standby," he commanded, his voice steady despite the gravity of the situation.

"Aye, sir," Larallis responded, her fingers dancing across the controls to initiate the rescue operation.

But even as the Dynehart sprang into action, another crisis loomed on the horizon. H'ogan's voice cut through the tense atmosphere, his words carrying a sense of urgency that sent the tension levels on the bridge skyrocketing ever upward.

"The Tholians, sir," H'ogan reported, his eyes wide with alarm, "they're heading back towards the Rigel System, back towards the anomaly!"

Torrzas's eyes narrowed as he processed the implications of H'ogan's revelation. Without hesitation, he issued the command to the helm, his voice ringing out with determination.

"Helm, bring us about. Pursuit course, engage!"

*_*_*_*

As the shuttlecraft materialised in the bay, the medical teams sprang into action, their urgency matching the gravity of the situation. They moved swiftly, their hearts pounding with adrenaline as they prepared to tend to Commander T'ovath's injuries. But as they entered the battered vessel, their hopes were dashed in an instant.

The shuttlecraft lay empty, devoid of any sign of its intended occupant. T'ovath was nowhere to be found. Confusion and disbelief swept through the medical team, their minds racing to comprehend the inexplicable absence of the ship's commander.

"Ensign Whyte to the captain," Dynehart’s young lead med tech called out, her voice tinged with bewilderment. "The shuttlecraft is empty, no signs of Commander T'ovath onboard at all, sir!"

On the bridge, Torrzas's eyes widened with shock as he processed the startling news. He turned to H'ogan and then to Auria, his expression a mix of frustration and concern. "What the hell is happening?"

But before either H'ogan or Auria could offer any insight, Larallis's urgent voice pierced the air, drawing everyone's attention to the viewscreen. Torrzas's heart sank as he beheld the sight before him.

"Captain! The Tholian ship is entering the anomaly with another shuttlecraft!" Larallis exclaimed, her tone laced with urgency.

Captain Shahn's mind raced with a tumult of emotions as he grappled with the unfolding crisis. It was clear that T'ovath had once again slipped through their grasp, his determination bordering on reckless abandon. "This is ridiculous," Torrzas muttered, his voice tinged with frustration. "How could we let him pull the same trick twice?"

“It’s confirmed, sir, shuttlecraft two is no longer in its bay,” H’ogan expressed, utterly dumbfounded.

With a heavy heart, Torrzas watched as the shuttlecraft vanished into the anomaly, a sinking feeling settling in the pit of his stomach. "Open hailing frequencies, Larallis, now!" he commanded, his voice betraying a sense of desperation.

"Aye, sir," Larallis replied, her fingers flying across the controls as she initiated the transmission.

"Commander T'ovath, break off your chase," Torrzas implored, his voice filled with urgency. "You cannot follow them into their own dimension!"

Seconds passed, each one feeling like an eternity, until T'ovath's image appeared on the viewscreen. His face bore the weight of the situation, his expression a mix of concern and determination. "I wish I could comply, Captain," he responded, his voice strained with effort. "But they've got me in a tractor beam. They're not letting go."

As T'ovath's image faded from the screen, Jody's voice cut through the tension, his words a stark reminder of the grim reality they faced. "They're going in!"

Torrzas stood at the centre of the bridge, his resolve unwavering yet tinged with a sense of helplessness. He watched in silence as the ships disappeared into the anomaly, a feeling of dread settling over him like a shroud. "Yes, Chief," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "And there's nothing we can do to stop them…”

To be continued.

“The Gateway To Nowhere”
by Jonathan Crosby-Bromley

Starring:
Travis Van Winkle as Torrzas Shahn
Szabó G. Tailor as H’ogan Marsland
Uzo Aduba as Auria Annanis
Cynthia Nixon as Enrica Tye
Ruby Rose as S’Lan
Lukas Gage as Brandon Tyler
Angelina Jolie as Larallis
Rafael L. Silva as Rafael Hill-T’Malineu
Ryan Bailey as Artkin Sorr
Noah Petersson as H’arry Tye
Malte Gårdinger as Tomani Lorrne
Oliver Brynnum as Jody Bush-Tel
Eamon Farren as T’ovath

Guest Starring:
Rhea Norwood as Elysiaa Lorrne
Jake Harding as Kiay Thomson
Bobby Brazier as Grant Pyra
Derek Shaw as Erit Mason Jr
Callum Kerr as Ash
Dakota Johnson as Rochelle Shaw
Yasmin Finney as S’Vanna

“The Gateway To Nowhere,” is based on the Star Trek: The Next Generation DC Comics, “Gateway” and “The Unconquered,” by Michael Jan Friedman first published in 1995.
“The Gateway to Nowhere” and “Star Trek Chimera Phase II,” is a work of non for profit fan-fiction. Star Trek and all related marks, logos and characters are solely owned by CBS Studios Inc. This fan fiction is not endorsed by, sponsored by, nor affiliated with CBS, Paramount Pictures, DC Comics, or any other Star Trek franchise, and is a non-commercial fan-made piece of fiction intended for recreational use. No commercial exhibition or distribution is permitted. No alleged independent rights will be asserted against CBS or Paramount Pictures.

Image Credits:
Solanogen: Tom Spina Designs
Shuttlecraft: SCE2Aux
Adamant-Class: Pundus
Spacescape: Starkiteckt
Image composition: JonBromLE1