OVIV, EDGE OF FORMER DOMINION SPACE — The USS Octavia E. Butler uncovered psychological torment, derelict vessels, and mysterious hallucinations while investigating the disappearance of a Starfleet ship.
The USS Unity Dow, a Constitution-III class vessel, failed to report back after conducting a routine survey of the Omicron Victor IV system. In response, the USS Octavia E. Butler was dispatched to investigate but found much more than they bargained for.
Despite warnings from the United Dominion of Planets and local information brokers allied with the Federation, the Butler proceeded into the system.
“That’s when the bananas really hit the transporter buffer, if you take my meaning,” an anonymous operations technician revealed to the FNS. “No life signs in the entire system, but several derelict vessels. Sensor problems, phase variance, the aforementioned transporter issues… and then the hallucinations started.”
While official reports remain heavily redacted, after-action logs and rumors circulating at a nearby way station suggest the crew of the Butler endured psychological torment. The source of this may be an unknown entity believed to be trapped on a mysterious, ominous planet. Notably, some senior staff were reassigned after the mission, likely due to the severe mental trauma endured.
Counseling teams are expected to be busy in the aftermath, yet a peculiar incident has raised additional concerns. As one resident neuroscientist reported, “That counselor just went feral! She bit me, jumped on me, and, worst of all, broke several sensitive pieces of lab equipment!” The command crew, when asked for comment, stated, “We are aware of the situation and all officers have been reintegrated with their doppelgangers and have returned to normal, appropriate behavior.” However, they declined to elaborate further.
Fortunately, many officers from the Unity Dow, previously presumed lost, have been recovered. While some senior staff were listed among the casualties, survivors have been transferred to the USS T’Pan for treatment, suffering from psychological and physiological injuries, including cases of hyperkalemia.
Additionally, several crew members of the Butler sustained injuries during the mission and are now on mandatory medical leave. Particularly concerning are the radiation-related injuries, though the crew is expected to make full recoveries as they enjoy some well-deserved rest.
Written by: Avander Promontory
