MARCHLANDS — Following a chroniton surge that mysteriously de-aged multiple crew members aboard the USS Constitution-B, investigations into the incident continue, as scientists and officers work to uncover the source—and implications—of the event.
The incident, which occurred in the ship’s Saloon, affected eighteen individuals across various species. Initial findings point to a display artifact as the likely origin of the surge. Ensign Leran Perax reported structured but chaotic chroniton radiation near several cargo crates, while Lieutenant JG Indrid Yirah confirmed that anomalous readings had been first detected by a multiphasic imager. These readings were ultimately traced to a specific artifact unearthed during a recent expedition.
Dr. Osbert Corriveau, who had participated in that expedition, noted that the artifact had shown chroniton traces since its discovery. As a precaution, the artifact has since been relocated to the Conservation Lab for containment and further study. Dr. Sidney Applegate, an expert on the artifact who was part of the original Vryshaan recovery team, is assisting in the investigation. The object—described as partly crystalline and partly metallic—remains enigmatic in both origin and function.
Meanwhile, the ship’s medical staff continues to monitor those who were de-aged. Lieutenant Cade Foster led examinations of the affected personnel, including himself. Commodore Jalana Rajel and Lieutenant Commander Azura Ada were among those reduced to a teenage physical state. Elevated brain activity and hormone levels were reported, corresponding with the younger physiological appearance.
“I honestly didn’t know what to expect when they came in,” said Nurse Rakal. “It took me a good thirty seconds to realize that was our Chief Science Officer and Captain.”
Investigations extended beyond Sickbay. Commander Nugra and Ensign Terpes began interviewing Cardassian guests who had been present, seeking additional context around the moment of the artifact’s activation. Meanwhile, Counselor Ensign Ba’el evaluated several of the affected officers—including Lieutenant JG Yito Seja, Lieutenant Commander Atan T’Seva, Lieutenant Eleanor Park, and Lieutenant JG Imas Heeka. Ba’el confirmed that, while memories and professional knowledge remained intact, decision-making appeared influenced by their altered physiological state.
Elsewhere, Lieutenant JG Lystra and Ensign So’Mior initiated a vessel-wide scan to detect any lingering side effects or broader contamination. Lieutenant Commander Diz’mim Ch’Nilmani tasked Lieutenant Shimisi with providing engineering support to ensure containment measures were effective.
Despite the progress, uncertainty remains high. With no current method to reverse the effects, speculation has grown among the crew as to whether those affected will remain in their altered states indefinitely—or if further consequences lie ahead.
Written by: Diz’mim Ch’Nilmani
