State of Play

Posted on Fri Mar 26th, 2021 @ 11:03am by Captain Nycolas Temple & Mauricio Arnaldo & Katya

Mission: The Gauntlet
Location: Paradise - Katya's Office

ON:

After the pleasantries were exchanged and stories of great battles and survival were recounted between them, Captain Temple was able to meet in private with Queen Katya to find out what exactly had been happening within the Expanse while the Pandora had been in the Hesiod Region. From the brutal welcome they had received from the Talarians and the attempted blockade from the Breen, it was clear that hostilities were high within the Inconnu Region at the moment - with the Alrakis Pact fighting back a renewed resurgence against their supposed control of the region.

Katya invited the Starfleet Captain into her office for the first time; most of their previous conversations had happened through view screens and subspace messages. Nyx couldn't remember if he had ever been in Katya's physical presence before during their last visit to Paradise. Though to be fair, there was a lot of other things happening at that time. The office was decorated like much of Paradise - blank white walls with round, silver circles on them. Some of the circles were windows into the space outside, some were monitors showing various parts of the station. In the middle of the room was a round, metal table, occupied by just the one chair. Naturally, Katya took the chair.

Nyx looked around at the office and tried to hide a smile - for an alien adorned herself with such vibrant colours on her skin, she did enjoy a blank, cold palette in her decorating. He kept that thought to himself, however, as he entered the room. "I'm very glad to be somewhere safe again. If only for a while."

"We are pleased to see you, too, Pandora." Katya replied warmly.

As she settled into the seat, she looked up with a pleasant smile, only to see Mauricio staring daggers at her. The former Pandora officer had become her close confidante after defecting from the ship to Paradise, and had helped her navigate the intricacies of dealing with others from the Federation. When he was staring like that, it was only because she was committing some kind of social misstep.

"What?" Katya asked, her bright tattoos shimmering against all the white around her.

"My Queen, it would be customary to offer your guest a seat as well." Mauricio said softly.

"Captain Temple, you require comfort?" She turned to the other human in the room and raised up her chin.

"I am okay with standing," Nyx gave a slight shrug. It wasn't a denial.

Katya looked back to Mauricio and also shrugged, "See? I knew this."

Sensing Mauricio was going to argue, Nyx quickly cut in. "I'd like to discuss the Expanse right away, if we could?"

"I, also." Katya nodded and with a touch of the table top, a holographic menu was projected in front of her. She took a few moments to scroll through the options before finding the one she wanted. Across from them, one of the viewing circles turned blank and then a map of the Expanse appeared.

(OOC: https://pandora.split-world.com/application/assets/images/missions/Inconnu2.png)

The map showed the various planets and systems of the Expanse, locations of the geometric storms which surrounded and invaded the area, as well as the borders of the Talarian, Tzenkethi, Breen, Ferengi, Ravager territories - those being the biggest powers in this region. Nyx studied the map intently, noticing names like the Indigo Sky, Delavi System, Hesiod, and Irokari as places the Pandora had either visited or come into contact with. There were also a whole range of other names and territories he was completely unaware of - some obviously only known to those who had explored deeper into the Expanse.

"This is the Expanse before now." Katya explained, indicating to the map. "Unruled. Uncontrolled. Lawless - in parts - yes. But also free." She sighed, shaking her head. "Around two years ago, we started to hear whispers of large forces from the Breen moving through the Expanse. The Tzenkethi and Talarians stopped using each other as target practice. The Ravagers became bold - striking out beyond their borders and created killing fields in multiple areas of the Expanse. It was like a looming shadow started to fall over the region. Slowly at first and only rising in terror until suddenly - the shadow had a name. The Alrakis Pact."

The map changed to where a cloud of red fell over the entire Expanse, and the symbol of the Breen, Ravager, Tzenkethi, and Talarian joint alliance imposed over it. This indicated the territory that the Pact claimed to have control over.

"When the Pact announced themselves formally, we saw their message. It was broadcast in similar fashion to the 'Stop The Pandora' signal. All over the Expanse, everyone was talking about how the Pact would now control it." Katya recalled, her voice grim. "These days were dark. At first, we lived in fear, not knowing when the Pact would force a full invasion of the Expanse as we assumed they would. Many people tried to flee, others tried to beg the Federation to intervene. It was... chaos."

"The Federation could not have intervened at first." Nyx gently explained, "We had been given orders to evacuate the Expanse. The Pandora was one of the few ships that stayed."

"We are glad that you did." Katya replied earnestly. "Because after a few weeks, we got a true sense of the Pact and their purpose. In truth, the Inconnu Region is simply too large, too diverse, and filled with far too many of the dark storms to properly control it through force. So, the real Alrakis Pact looked like this."

The red cloud shrank to only cover the regions bordering the eastern hemisphere of the Expanse - a lop-sided crescent moon shape that went from the top of the Ferengi border and curved around the bottom. The Ravager's domain - a large circle in the far west of the Expanse - remained, as did their known hunting grounds or "killing fields" as they were known locally. Both of the corridors, Northern and Southern, from the Federation into the Expanse were covered in red. However there remained a large section in the middle still out of reach of the Pact's control. Paradise was under the cloud.

"As you can see, their forces were concentrated in these areas." Katya explained, looking to the map. "There was never a combined push from all of the Pact together to control the Expanse, more targeted attacks from each individual Pact member into specific areas. While they tried at times to reach into the centre of the Expanse, they simply didn't have the resources to do so. They had also never surveyed the region, so many of their ships became lost in the storms. Their control of the Expanse was more about appearances than complete domination."

"Supply routes in the northern regions were systematically attacked by the Breen. They seemed to be the most aggressive in claiming ground in the Expanse." Mauricio chimed in. "The others? Well, they took what they could, but never really committed beyond a show of force. They would patrol areas, namely the bigger trade corridors, and attempt to blockade large systems. It seemed like they were reserving themselves for something bigger."

Nyx looked to them both, brow furrowed although he knew the answer. "The Federation?"

"Yes." Katya answered. "They had easily allowed the Ferenginar into the Expanse under contract, but they intended to maintain a hostile stance with the Federation. We could see from their patterns that they were hunting any Federation vessel that remained in the Expanse."

"They wanted a war." Nyx nodded. "They wanted to lure us into attacking them."

Mauricio agreed, "The Federation didn't rise to the bait. Who knows what would have happened if they did. Certainly all of those border territories would have been used as canon fodder."

"This is sadly true." Katya confirmed. "When it became clear the Federation would not engage the Pact directly, we tried to do what we could. We used their weakness against them, push back in some places. Try to find those willing to stand up against the Pact. However, the citizens of the Expanse simply didn't have the alliances or communication abilities to launch a wide-spread counter-attack to remove the Alrakis Pact ourselves. Many believed we would simply try to survive and resist when we could."

"What changed?" Nyx asked curiously, looking to the Anh'Iran chief.

"The Breen trying to take Paradise." Katya replied, a smug smile growing on her lips. "To the Pact, owning the Outpost was a symbol of their control of the region and a signal to us that we could supposedly continue to operate under their rule. We knew the Breen had plans to control the southern trade routes and supply systems. This would mean coming up against Qaraq's businesses in Delavi too. We also discovered they planned to use Paradise as a target against the Federation - to make it look like a Starfleet vessel had caused a tragic event at the station. They cared not for the lives that would be lost. We were just food for the beast."

"Ah yes." Nyx nodded, remembering how Sasha Vieers was dragged into this covert plan and the plasma bomb that had been planted on a Pandora shuttlecraft to frame them. "They had obviously grown tired of trying to provoke us, so they attempted to manufacture an attack instead. If they had succeeded, it would have given them the war they wanted."

"But, your crew didn't let that happen." Katya smiled now. "You worked with us to plan a surprise revolt against the Breen. We incapacitate them, your Chief Engineer defused the bomb, and your officers helped to stop the remaining Breen. Captain Temple, your ship gave us our freedom back."

On the map, the Alrakis symbol faded off the Outpost. Nyx looked at it and smiled, knowing this part of the story.

"It was our pleasure and our duty." Nyx commented sincerely. "Helping Paradise has been one of our proudest achievements for us in the Expanse, and certainly for myself in my career. If faced with the same choices, I'd do it again."

"Here, here." Mauricio added.

Katya took in a breath and continued after a moment, trying not to get too emotional. "This event was the trigger that many in this region needed to finally stand up against the Expanse. We found the Irokari and many others coming to our aid. Ships from all over the quadrant came to our side. We had seen the extent of their evil and we chose to resist. We began to form communication networks and protected corridors to move our people around. Qaraq became fundamental in organising safe passages through the Expanse, using his businesses and connections to do so. Paradise itself became the symbol of our resistance as well as the command centre for our operations."

The map changed once more, as the red clouds dissipated further, cracks forming throughout the once solid masses as regions fell back into independent hands.

"Katya became our General." Mauricio replied, nodding to his queen. "She's put our plans into motion."

Katya beamed, "It was simple, really. Use the enemy's weakness against themselves. Wherever there were gaps in their patrols, we would transport ships and people through. We'd tag a ship and have it chase us into the dark storms, luring them to their death. And when we could mount a true offensive without fear of being overwhelmed, we did. It took time, and it is still an ongoing process. But we have seen their facade of control continue to slip away."

"Incredibly deft tactician." Nyx replied, "To come against a much larger force and yet win these battles, is not a simple thing to do at all. Your victories have given the Expanse hope. In my people's old beliefs, we had a story about a man defeating a giant with just a rock. You have done as much here, too."

"I have had a lot of help." Katya shook her head. However outwardly she would proclaim to be the Queen of the Expanse, she knew it wouldn't have happened without the support of so many. "Though I had no army of my own, I was able to build one and it was they who have claimed such victories in the Expanse." She continued discussing the Expanse, "Now, in recent times, we have seen the cracks between the Pact grow stronger. The Talarians have receded back into their own territory, they no longer show interest in patrolling the Expanse."

"We came across one squadron." Nyx added carefully. "But the Commander was acting more out of prideful revenge than orders from the Republic itself. In fact, another Talarian who we had met previously intervened and stopped him. Do you know Sevros?"

Katya shook her head, "I have had no legitimate contact with the Talarians themselves, however I am aware that there are dissenting voices in their government. It has been enough to make the Talarians turn their backs on the Expanse."

Nyx agreed, "The Talarians are stubborn, but they know tactics too. They can see the battle is not worth it, and they remain disdainful of helping anyone else but themselves. Their hatred of the Breen and Tzenkethi may see their withdrawal altogether."

On screen, the red cloud faded completely from the Talarian border. Though they had not formally left the Pact, it was true that they were no longer participating in Alrakis operations.

Moving on, Mauricio pointed to another area. "The Tzenkethi remain in key resource spots. Mostly dilithium planets. However, they too have stopped patrolling areas just for the sake of it. We have seen a wide passageway form past Ordinlax V, which we are using to our advantage."

"The Breen are now trying to cover it, but their ships are simply too spaced out to do so effectively." Katya added, "I believe they would have tried a push to retake Paradise had it not been for their alliance partners continuing to desert their patrols, forcing them to use more ships to cover more territory. The Breen alone cannot maintain the Alrakis borders, giving us the upper hand."

"That is good news. But be careful, you can never underestimate the Breen." Nyx advised solemnly. "They like to lay traps and may just be giving you guys a false sense of security. Hoping that you'll overcommit your own forces and leave yourselves wide open. If it's too good to be true, it probably is."

"We will, Captain." Katya replied, "We are being incredibly cautious still. However, there is something else working in our favour too."

"Oh?" Nyx asked, eyebrows raised.

Katya pressed at her console and the map faded away, and she turned back to the Pandora Captain with a frown.

"Stop the Pandora." Katya answered, folding her hands over her chest. "It has given the Alrakis Pact a big, specific target to hunt. I spoke to your Admiral Milne on Carnwennan Station, they are most concerned about getting you home. She employed me to bring those officers to you and I have engaged Qaraq's assistance as well, but it is no easy journey. You saw for yourself that the Breen have been a constant presence around this region, just waiting for you to show up."

The mention of the signal still sent a shiver down the Captain's spine. It had caused him countless restless nights and moments of deep fear - knowing that the Alrakis Pact and every enemy they could possibly have in the Expanse would be after them. It haunted Nyx.

"We know." He said quietly. "And we're doing everything we can to get back home as soon as possible. I am eternally grateful for your support. Yours and Qaraq's."

Katya shrugged, "As I said, the Pandora gave us our freedom back. Our debt to you is equal in your need of us now, so we will help. It's what we do here in the Expanse. Now that we have you safe, we must make the final push for your home."

"I'm willing to hear all options." Nyx answered quickly, holding up his hands.

"The Rentara Nebula, near Ordinlax V, would provide safe passage for you." Katya explained, "Qaraq will help get you there."

"I will look over the astrometric charts and help plot a course." Nyx nodded, "But it sounds like a plan."

"That is first part of plan." Katya spoke, her tone deliberately even. "As I said, the 'Stop The Pandora' signal works for us, too. The Pandora's final journey to the Carnwennan Corridor will provide a necessary distraction for us to move a significant number of ships."

Nyx was initially confused by the statement, said so plainly by the Anh'Iran leader. After a moment, he understand was she was saying.

"So.... we're being used as bait now?" Nyx asked sharply.

"Only once we know you have safely made it to the Nebula." Katya explained. "It will be too far for the Alrakis forces to actually catch you, but we know they will try. We use that time to move some of our heavy fighters into a position for a future attacking run. Doing this will give us a big tactical advantage to strike at the Breen. We can start to target their command bases and staging areas."

Nyx was glad he was already standing because he was able to walk away from the table for a few moments. He put his hand through his hair and stared at the cold blank wall. Katya was right, of course, it was the perfect opportunity for them to move their forces while the Alrakis Pact was chasing the Pandora - but it came with the significant chance that the Pandora's final dash back to Federation territory would then come with a hot pursuit of some very angry, very dangerous enemy ships on their tail. And if there was not a significant defence on the other side at Carnwennan Station, just reaching Federation territory would not guarantee they were actually safe.

Finally, he turned back. "I can only accept your help because we so desperately need it. We won't be able to make it alone." Nyx explained, "But please, let's find a way that doesn't leave the Pandora completely vulnerable. Or all of this will be for nothing. If the Pact actually does 'Stop' the Pandora, then you know they will come for Paradise next."

Katya nodded, "I understand."

"Are you prepared for that?" Nyx asked her seriously, placing his hands on the table and leaning forward.

"Not yet." Katya immediately admitted. "We have work to do."

"Then so do we." Nyx replied in kind. "Let's discuss this once I have conferred with my crew."

Nyx left the meeting more informed, but no less concerned about the state of play in the Expanse. They had found safe harbour and their allies, but it didn't mean the journey was over. If anything, it was only going to get harder.

OFF