[snip]

The dull thump of the probes was soon returned ten minutes later by return scans. In a very close solar orbit of the system’s solar body was a hexagon like structure ranging about twice the size in length and height of the Merrimack herself. Scans showed it was made up of similar black metals and oddly enough stone similar to the pyramidal structure and that which Roger’s away team found themselves in. How the stones were not melting was anyone’s guess but likely some kind of shielding the probes couldn’t pick up were to be responsible. Relayed now by the probe they definitely could pick up signs too of a quantum entanglement signal between all three structures which itself formed a almost 2D like triangle throughout the system that rotated in line with the comet that Roger’s was in. It was quite an amazing feat of engineering to be sure and planning for a orbital path lining and setup! Finally the probes picked up what they seemed to show was a class-m environment within the hexagon structure. As well as life signs! Though what kind couldn’t be defined.

Glen didn’t wish to interrupt the work of the away team any further, and he simply listened to their conversation with the speaking orb. They were asking all the right questions and learning much of importance. He waited also to be informed of the results of the scans, just now returned from the probes. These recent Starfleet regulations that a Captain shouldn’t lead the landing party might have very good intentions, but it made for a dull life for a starship Captain. Too much sitting around was simply not in John’s nature, and never had been.

“Captain” William piped up “There’s something there, a large structure approximately twice the size of the Merrie. It’s composed of materials similar to that of the Pyramid Captain Roger’s away team is in. Ture enough the QE signal connects the other two structures.” He paused as he double-checked the later readings, it didn’t really make sense, but then of course not much had made sense today “Uhm, I’m detecting a liveable environment in there, breathable air, warm enough and life forms.” He turned around in his swivel chair “Can’t tell yet why it isn’t burning up from such close proximity to the sun, although all inn all I’m not terribly surprised.”

“Would another probe help?” Glen asked. “Obviously, I really want to investigate that ‘liveable environment’ further, but I can’t leave Tinga and her team here while we go… Even if we could take the intense heat…! And I’m not sure how much time we have left before the Orion ships arrive… These ‘life forms’…? they could be rodents or insects? They are unlikely to be the ‘Creators’. So, would another probe be able to tell us? Or do you have another suggestion for our next course of action?”

Another probe probably wouldn’t do much to better their resolution of the scans the interference from the sun was just too great. There was always the chance they could try hailing the station by the sun though through the probe. See if anyone replied!

“We could try hailing them through the probe?” perked up the Comms officer that Tinga had left in her place.

“Make it so!” replied Captain Glen.

-Glen, CO

NE Comms turned nodding hailing through the probes. “..Hailing now sir on all channels..” they said.

A moment later then a return hail came through. “..Wow that was quick, we’re receiving a return hail, audio only though!” They said.

There was a burst of static before the comm NE winced clearing it up. “..Um, try again sir..”

Once Glen did the audio reply came once more. =/\= This is Operations Manager Chatel in your tongue. We have been observing you since your arrival in this system as well as adjustment to all control, storage, and security stations still in operation. Our scans of your mental, psychological and physical profiles as well as cultural and language exchanges have left us curious to learn more of you. Till your hail however, protocol forbid our speaking in such a dialogue..” The gender neutral like voice said.

At the same time as this scans at the system’s edge picked up several Orion ships suddenly dropping from warp and cloak. 8 in Wanderer class blockade runner frigates came on scans shields raised and weapons primed. A hail from the lead ship also came on on all channels =/\= This is Th’anos Dione of the Eternal–Deviant. By my order I claim this system in the name of the Orion people! All Federation ships present will retreat to a 5 light year radius or we WILL open fire. =/\= The deep baritone male voice spoke through an audio link.

GM CockRoach