PARTHA EXPANSE – While investigating rumours of a Valcarian presence in the Uncharted Region, the USS Astraeus has been reassigned to investigate an explosion in the vicinity of an Al-Leyan Exile colony.
Both the Astraeus and the USS Nightingale detected the explosion. The location of the incident is of particular interest, as the colony is populated by the Marŝante Morta – the “Walking Dead” – a term used derisively by the Al-Leyan Traditionists to describe the Exiles who have chosen to live outside the confines of their societal norms. While sharing many core Al-Leyan values, the Exiles represent a more progressive element, open to exploring diplomatic and cultural exchange, and are currently exploring Federation membership.
LtCmdr. Lael Rosek-Skyfire, the Astraeus’ First Officer, and herself of half-Al-Leyan heritage assumed the role of Acting Captain for the mission. Her personal connection to the Al-Leyan people, and specifically her involvement in the initial Starfleet contact with this Exile colony several years ago, provides a unique perspective. Alongside her, Mission Specialist Lt. Christopher Caldwell is acting as First Officer.
The presence of Federation Ambassador Charta-Von, a Grazerite and a distinguished former Captain of the Astraeus, further complicates the command dynamic, albeit in a beneficial way. Her extensive experience in first contact situations as well as the ship’s capabilities, offers a valuable resource to the acting command team. Ambassador Charta-Von offered a reassuring note: “Federation starships are frequently called upon to deviate from their assigned mission. I know this ship well, and its acting Captain has a good crew at her back.” Speaking of that crew, Ens. Sulok, a new addition to the science department commented: “We have been met with unusual circumstances, yet despite the scientific curiosity that they spark it would be preferred if they didn’t have the potential of causing harm to anyone.”
At this stage, the cause of the explosion remains unknown. Astraeus’ primary objectives are to determine the nature of the incident, to assess any potential threat to the colony and the surrounding region, and to offer assistance if required and requested, all while navigating the complex sensibilities of the Al-Leyan people. LtCmdr. Rosek-Skyfire emphasised Starfleet’s commitment to the Exiles: “The Federation cares for its own. As part of their application, the Colony has been granted some of the protections a member might receive. As a faction under our protection, we take potential threats to their people’s safety very seriously.” This pledge underscores the Federation’s unwavering support and the importance of this investigation.
For the Astraeus crew, under its acting command, the unanswered questions are numerous. As Doctor August Winslett, a recent Academy graduate, quipped “The Par’tha Expanse. Unexplained explosions. Put on the bridge for my first mission out of the Academy. What could possibly go wrong?”
Written by Christopher Caldwell
