Anything I borrowed/modified from Star Wars, Star Trek, EVE Online, DUST 514, and d20 Future belong to the owners of those Intellectual Properties.
I borrowed/modified A LOT of shit.
I welcome feedback, but keep it civil.
'These are thoughts'
"These are verbal communications"
"These are verbal communications via radio, intercom, etc"
'[ These are mental communications via synaptic interface ]'
'[ These are verbal communications via synaptic interface ]'
Chapter 01: First Contact – Turians
Terran Date: December 02, 2157
Terran Standard Time: 00:37
Cluster: Unnamed – Temporary Alliance Designation – C/05
System: Unnamed – Temporary Alliance Designation – A/01/R
Space seems to distort briefly as five turian frigates led by the cruiser, PFS Vindicator enters the un-named system. The frigates quickly and smoothly take up their positions around the cruiser with practiced ease. The cruiser's executive officer, Commander Ky'yn, intently looks over the galaxy map but snaps to attention and salutes as Captain Epessan approaches.
The captain returns his salute, "Report Commander."
"Captain, we've entered the Relay 314 system; all ships have assumed standard patrol formation; scanners are active; no contacts reported."
The captain briefly studies the galaxy map, "Set course for Relay 314; standard cruising speed."
"Yes sir," replies Commander Ky'yn.
The communications officer, Lieutenant Kasril's, fingers glide over her console as she quickly relays these orders to the fleet. A small blip on her console begins to flash as the fleet confirms these orders, "Orders acknowledged; fleet standing by."
"Execute," the captain commands almost absently. He despised these mind-numbing, dull ass patrols.
The ships of the patrol fleet move forward with increasing speed as their thrusters build to standard cruising velocity.
The captain sighs heavily and mutters to himself, "Boring ass patrol …"
Aboard the SSV Kotte, every crewman on the bridge looks up from their station as a distinct alarm begins to sound. The tactical officer, Lieutenant Harris, intently analyzes the sensor readings for a moment before reporting, "Perimeter Alert, sensors have registered six contacts entering the system; Contacts have assumed formation and are on an intercept course; Transferring data to the RRC."
The captain clears his throat, "Transmit the following message to Alliance Command on Priority Channel Omega 1."
The communications officer, Lieutenant Boyle, quickly keys in the channel code and confirms that the channel encryption is active before announcing, "Aye, aye sir; Priority Channel Omega 1 confirmed; Ready to transmit."
"Alliance Command, this is Captain Hernandez of the SSV Kotte. Sitrep follows – Possible First Contact detected; We'll proceed with First Contact Protocols upon confirmation," reports Captain Hernandez.
Lieutenant Boyle announces, "Sitrep transmission confirmed."
Captain Hernandez takes a deep, calming breath, "Sound General Quarters."
"Aye, aye sir," a klaxon begins to sound throughout the ship as Lieutenant Boyle announces, "General Quarters, all hands to stations. This is NOT a drill, I repeat, this is NOT a drill."
The Kotte comes alive as crew members rush to establish a direct data link with their stations via their synaptic interfaces with thoroughly rehearsed efficiency.
The XO, Commander Reed, takes up her position at the Rapid Reaction Command console and establishes a data link with the system and begins coordinating fleet tactical functions.
'[ The SRV Tesla has acknowledged General Quarters and is standing by to execute standard withdrawal protocol. They're activating their plasma cloak ],' reports Commander Reed.
The SRV Tesla's form slowly distorts and shimmers as it fades from sight.
'[ General Quarters confirmed; All stations report data links secured and ready. The SRV Tesla confirms all stations report data links are secured and ready ],' reports Commander Reed.
Aboard the Vindicator, the tactical officer, Lieutenant Derim, reports, "Captain, the scanners are reading a weak energy signature near Relay 314."
Captain Epessan approaches the tactical station and studies the readings for a moment before looking up at the officer, "A ship?"
"Unknown Captain. There are no detectable mass effect emissions or kinetic barriers," reports Lieutenant Derim.
"Change of orders, assume standard tactical formation; activate kinetic barriers; increase velocity to full cruising speed" orders Captain Epessan.
Lieutenant Kasril quickly relays the orders to the fleet, "Orders acknowledged; fleet standing by."
"Execute," commands Captain Epessan.
The ships of the patrol fleet smoothly shift positions as they assume standard tactical formation and increase velocity to close range on the unknown contact detected at Relay 314.
'[ Unknown contacts changing formation; Velocity increasing; Course unchanged. Sensors are registering mass effect emissions and kinetic barriers ],' reports Lieutenant Harris.
'[ Transmit sitrep to Alliance Command; Sitrep follows - First Contact confirmed ]', orders Captain Hernandez.
Lieutenant Boyle sends the update, '[ Aye, aye sir; Sitrep transmission confirmed. ]'
With each passing moment, the tension on the bridge grows as Captain Hernandez orders, '[ Open a channel to the approaching contacts on all frequencies and transmit the First Contact Package. ]'
'[ Aye, aye sir; Package transmission confirmed ]', reports Lieutenant Boyle.
Commander Reed reports, '[ The SRV Tesla is standing by to execute standard withdrawal protocol. ]'
Lieutenant Derim reports, "Sir, there is a slight increase in the energy emissions."
"Sir, we're receiving a four-part transmission. The first part appears to be a phonic and grammatical index for an unknown language; the second part appears to be some type of a mathematical algorithm; the third part seems to be … sir … the third part of the message is in Prothean," reports an excited Lieutenant Kasril, 'First Contact with a new species! I wonder what they're like.'
"Prothean! What about the fourth part," queries a surprised Captain Epessan?
"The fourth part seems to be the actual message. I've analyzed the algorithm, and it appears to be a translation key between Prothean and the phonic and grammatical index for the unknown language" reports Lieutenant Kasril.
Commander Ky'yn comments, "Whoever they are, they're smart. They provided everything we need to create a translation program."
"Lieutenant, begin translating their message," orders Captain Epessan.
Lieutenant Kasril responds excitedly, "Yes sir."
"Captain, we're entering visual range," reports Lieutenant Derim.
"Transfer to screen; Begin tactical analysis," replies Captain Epessan.
All eyes on the bridge appraise the vessel that appears on the main screen. None of the Citadel species has ever encountered a ship with this configuration. The ship is radically different from any ship previously reported, its wedge shape and dark coloring broken up by red striped pattern.
"Our database has no match on that ship profile. Scanners are having issues taking accurate readings. Based on a cursory visual assessment at this range and magnification; this vessel is approximately 500 meters long; there are no identifying features on their hull except for some unusual slots, possibly weapons; scanners are not detecting any recognizable propulsion system; the sloped hull will deflect an estimated 30% to 50% of any kinetic force from a frontal attack; this ship is designed for one thing … battle," reports Lieutenant Derim.
Captain Epessan breaks the silence, "Could they have been trying to activate the relay?"
"How could they Captain, without any detectable mass effect technology," questions Commander Ky'yn?
Captain Epessan considers the question as he absent-mindedly scratches his mandible, "Unknown Commander, perhaps they're conducting experiments. If they are, then maybe they could unintentionally activate the relay."
Captain Epessan activates his omni-tool's communications suite, "Engineering, is it conceivable to activate a dormant relay without mass effect emissions?"
The disembodied voice of the ship's chief engineering officer, Lieutenant Kuragna, replies with a hint of disbelief at the question, "Sir, it's theoretically possible, but to date no species has ever succeeded in the proof of concept stage. The last project to attempt this was in 2053."
Captain Epessan thinks this over for a few moments and comes to a decision, "We can't take the risk. Tactical target that vessel and prepare to fire."
As Lieutenant Derim attempts to target the unknown ship, he nervously reports, "Sir, we're unable to target that vessel."
Captain Epessan's head snaps around to Lieutenant Derim in surprise, "What? Why?!"
"Sir, unknown," reports Lieutenant Derim.
"Compensate," orders Captain Epessan.
"Sir, every attempt to compensate has failed," reports Lieutenant Derim.
"Change of orders. Frigates B1 and B2 flank left; Frigates C1 and C2 flank right; Frigate A continue on course; Helm, align to the unknown ship and close range to 5,000 kilometers. Tactical, target that vessel manually and prepare to fire," orders Captain Epessan.
"Sir, orders acknowledged; standing by," announces the flight officer, Lieutenant Lorius.
A nervous Lieutenant Kasril signals the fleet with their new orders, "Sir, orders acknowledged; fleet standing by."
"Execute," orders Captain Epessan.
The frigates break formation to flank left and right as instructed. The cruiser swiftly and smoothly aligns towards the unknown vessel while quickly closing the gap.
Commander Ky'yn whispers to Captain Epessan so that the bridge crew can't hear, "Captain, perhaps we should wait on the translation?"
"I understand your trepidation Commander, but we can't take the chance of them activating that relay. Who knows what could be waiting on the other side. Besides, they have no recognizable weapons or tech," replies Captain Epessan in a quiet whisper.
"Sir, manual acquisition of the target confirmed," reports Lieutenant Derim.
Lieutenant Lorius begins calling out the distance to the target, "20,000 … 15,000 … 10,000 … 5,000."
"Fire the main cannon," orders Captain Epessan.
On the bridge, a subdued thud is heard, accompanied by a small vibration as the main mass accelerator cannon comes to life hurling a metallic projectile traveling at 1.17% the speed of light. The telltale bluish haze of eezo shrouds the projectile, leaving a trail behind it as it rapidly moves towards the unknown vessel.
Captain Hernandez orders, '[ Transfer visual to screen; Transfer tactical analysis to RRC. ]'
Every eye is on the main screen when the first images appear. What they see is an elongated vessel with angular features. A pair of struts connected to the mid-point of the central hull slowly unfolds from along the primary hull's length outward and lock into position.
Lieutenant Harris analyzes the unknown ships' design, '[ The lead vessel is 700 meters long. Their main cannon is 85% the length of the ship. They are also equipped with smaller cannons. The smaller vessels are 300 meters long and appear to be designed for atmospheric and space operation. The angled sides and minimized forward profile indicate they developed their vessels to deflect kinetic damage and mitigate directed energy damage. Precisely the same design considerations and parameters that we took into account with our ships. These are warships. ]'
The helm officer, Lieutenant Davis, speaks up, '[ They remind me of a bird of prey. ]'
Lieutenant Harris does a double take at his sensor readings and reports, '[ Four contacts are breaking off from the formation and are flanking left and right; Contacts are not slowing; Registering power spike; They're firing. ]'
Captain Hernandez immediately orders, '[ Evasive maneuvers! Tesla WITHDRAW WITHDRAW WITHDRAW! Transmit sitrep to Alliance Command! Sitrep follows – First Contact confirmed HOSTILE! ]'
The alert klaxon sounds throughout the ship even as the ship gracefully dodges the incoming weapon's fire.
'[ All weapons online; Standing by ],' reports Lieutenant Harris.
Lieutenant Davis announces, '[ Aye, aye sir; Evasive maneuvers confirmed! ]'
Commander Reed reports, '[ The SRV Tesla has de-cloaked and executed standard withdrawal procedure! Assuming ship-wide tactical coordination functions! ]'
'[ Aye, aye sir; Sitrep transmission confirmed ]', announces Lieutenant Boyle.
Lieutenant Harris reports, '[ Unguided projectile; PADS is active; Firing. ]'
A thin pulse of crimson energy bursts from a Point-Area Defense System particle beam array and lances the incoming projectile for a brief moment. The projectile vaporizes instantly.
Lieutenant Harris lets out a sigh of relief and reports, '[ Projectile destroyed; No proximity detonator or explosive payload detected. ]'
'[ Tactical, Set particle beams to standard fire mode; Load pulse torpedoes; Stand-by chaff torpedoes. Cyberwarfare, Initiate systems breach and begin data mining ],' orders Captain Hernandez.
Lieutenant Harris reports, '[ Aye, aye sir; Standard fire mode confirmed; Pulse torpedoes confirmed and loaded; Chaff torpedoes on stand-by. ]'
The SI cyberwarfare officer, Lieutenant CW-121-A 'Kala,' reports, '[ Aye, aye sir; Initiating systems breach. ]'
"REPORT," demands Captain Epessan!
"Sir, another vessel of similar design and size just seemed to materialize from nowhere! It set a course away from the relay and jumped to FTL. No mass effect emissions detected," reports a stunned Lieutenant Derim before he continues, "Sir, they're using some form of directed energy weapon. Our projectile was destroyed at a range of 4,000 kilometers even though they had already dodged it."
"Directed energy weapons should not be efficient at that range and clarify what you mean by dodged it," pondered Captain Epessan.
Lieutenant Derim clears his throat and composes himself, "Sir, I mean that the vessel had already dodged our attack without any recognizable thruster configuration or output. The projectile would have missed by a minimum of 2,500 kilometers. For a ship nearly the size of this one, she's damned maneuverable."
The captain thinks to himself as he forms a plan, 'Ships barely detected and resistant to targeting, capable of tactical cloaking, and possessing long-range directed energy weapons. If we can acquire this ship, even temporarily, its technology could put the Turian Hierarchy on top.'
"Sir, I've completed a translation program using the information from their transmission," reports Lieutenant Kasril.
"Begin playback," commands Captain Epessan.
The bridge crew holds their collective breath as the speakers crackle to life with first words any turian hears from the Terran Republic.
"This is the Systems' Alliance cruiser SSV Kotte under the command of Captain Hernandez. On behalf of the Systems' Alliance, Terran Republic and humanity, we greet you in the name of peace and friendship."
Lieutenant Kasril breathes an audible sigh of relief and reports, "Sir, as suspected, it appears to be a first contact message."
"Open a channel," orders Captain Epessan.
"Sir, the channel is open; translation program is active," reports Lieutenant Kasril.
'We need to assess their technology; we must board that vessel,' thinks Captain Epessan.
The mouth of every crewman present on the bridge drops open in incredulity at their captain's next words, "Alliance cruiser, I'm Captain Epessan of the Turian Hierarchy cruiser PFS Vindicator commanding Turian Patrol Fleet 186. You're in breach of the Citadel Conventions. Surrender your vessel or we'll take it by force."
The speakers crackle with a reply,
'[ This is Captain Hernandez of the Systems' Alliance cruiser SSV Kotte. Please forward a copy of the Citadel Conventions and highlight the specific provisions that we've violated. ]'
Captain Epessan grows impatient, "I'm not here to explain anything to you Captain Hernandez! What's your reply Captain, will you surrender peacefully or shall we do this the hard way? Keep in mind that you're at a tactical disadvantage."
'[ Correction Captain Epessan, we're at a numerical disadvantage, nothing more. The Systems' Alliance doesn't wish conflict with any species. Stand down or we'll defend ourselves with lethal force. ]'
Captain Epessan answers, "The hard way. Cut the transmission."
A visibly shaken Lieutenant Kasril stammers, "T-transmission is cut."
"All ships prepare to fire," orders Captain Epessan.
Commander Ky'yn steps up to Captain Epessan and whispers, "Sir, perhaps we should stand down and inform Palaven Command. There hasn't been a First Contact in nearly a century."
Captain Epessan looks at Commander Ky'yn, and in a low whisper, "Their technology can put the Turian Hierarchy on top. All I want to do is examine it."
Lieutenant Derim reports, "Sir, the fleet is in firing position; standing by."
Captain Epessan's voice increases in volume, "Fire first salvo."
"Firing," reports Lieutenant Derim.
The main cannons of six vessels roar to life as each fires two rounds at the Kotte.
Lieutenant Harris reports, '[ Energy spike; 12 unguided projectiles incoming; PADS is active; Firing. ]'
The PADS turrets lash out with rapid pulses of crimson energy, which instantly destroy eight of the incoming rounds.
'[ Four rounds penetrated PADS; five seconds to impact' ], announces Commander Reed from the RRC.
Captain Hernandez orders over the ship-wide synaptic interface system, '[ All hands brace for impact! ]'
The Kotte shudders violently as the four rounds impact the hull with incredible force. On the bridge, a few crew members are thrown to the deck.
'[ Report ],' commands Captain Hernandez!
Commander Reed reports from the RRC, '[ Tactical Report, Four direct hits amidships; The combined kinetic force of those four rounds was the equivalent of a 78 kiloton detonation. Engineering Report, Minor damage to outer armor; Regeneration commencing. Medical Report, No causalities. ]'
'[ Sir, Systems breach successful; Data mining initiated ]', reports Lieutenant Kala.
Lieutenant Derim reports, "Sir, all projectiles except four were destroyed. Visual scan indicates minimal damage to the cruiser. They don't appear to employ any type of a kinetic barrier."
"Give me a close visual scan of the impact area," commands Captain Epessan.
As the damaged section of the Kotte's hull fills the screen, the bridge crews eyes widen in complete astonishment. The buckled portion of the hull begins to resume its regular shape. Multiple stress fractures visibly close and fuses together.
Lieutenant Derim's voice breaks slightly as he stammers, "S-SPIRTS, their armor is regenerating itself."
"Regenerative armor! How the hell …," asks Captain Epessan in astonishment?!
Within a few moments, no visible damage is apparent.
Aboard the Kotte, '[ Well, we gave them a chance. Tactical, Target all enemy vessels; Fire two salvos of pulse torpedoes; Load chaff torpedoes ],' orders Captain Hernandez.
Lieutenant Harris fires via his synaptic interface jack and reports, '[ Aye, aye sir; Firing pulse torpedoes; Chaff torpedoes confirmed and loaded. ]'
Bright flashes of light illuminate the Kotte's hull in the cold darkness as her torpedo launchers fire two salvos of six torpedoes in rapid succession.
"Sir, reading energy spike; they're firing; 12 incoming torpedoes," reports Lieutenant Derim!
Captain Epessan bellows, "Evasive maneuvers!"
The Kotte's pulse torpedoes rush toward the turian fleet. The turian crews watch helplessly as the torpedoes effortlessly evade their point-defense systems and match their maneuvers to detonate against their kinetic barriers in a storm of intense blue-white electro-magnetic interference.
"Sir, barriers obstructed all torpedoes; no damage repor … correction, our scanners have failed. Visual scans degraded. Those torpedoes must be designed to interfere with scanners," reports Lieutenant Derim.
Captain Epessan coldly responds, "You don't get paid to think lieutenant."
Aboard the Kotte, Commander Reed reports from the RRC, '[ I've scanned and analyzed their sub-systems; Transferring data to the tactical display. ]'
Captain Hernandez studies the tactical display for a few moments, '[ Target these two sub-systems. ]'
'[ Aye, aye sir; Target locks on enemy kinetic barrier generators and sub-light propulsion systems confirmed ]', reports Lieutenant Harris.
Captain Hernandez calmly replies, '[ Engage targets. ]'
Lieutenant Davis automatically maneuvers the Kotte to enable all targets to be fired upon in a single pass.
'[ Aye, aye sir; Firing ]', announces Lieutenant Harris.
Multiple continuous beams of red energy lash out from varying angles and trajectories hitting their targets as barriers flash a brilliant blue before failing. The sub-light propulsion systems of the turian ships fare no better as they're all critically damaged.
Lieutenant Derim shouts, "Sir! All ships report that kinetic barriers and sub-light propulsion systems are offline. They knew exactly where to hit us. This indicates that their scanners are more sophisticated than ours and they appear to have a 360-degree spherical firing arc!"
"All ships, fire a salvo of disruptor torpedoes," growls the angry Captain Epessan as he realizes his chances for a quick victory are rapidly dwindling.
The darkness of the void surrounding the battle lights up as multiple salvos of torpedo are fired and race towards the Kotte.
'[ Multiple torpedo salvos incoming; Registering mass effect emissions ]', reports Lieutenant Harris.
Captain Hernandez responds instantly, '[ Fire chaff torpedoes; Load standard torpedoes. ]'
'[ Aye, aye sir; Firing chaff torpedoes; Standard torpedoes confirmed and loaded ]', responds Lieutenant Harris.
The cold blackness lights up further as the Kotte fires her chaff torpedoes. As they rush toward the incoming turian torpedoes, they detonate scattering their payload of gas, plasma and metallic pellets creating a wall meant to interfere with guidance systems. As the turian torpedoes enter some of them veer off target while others explode prematurely, but a few make it through. The Kotte's PADS start firing in a desperate attempt to stop the incoming destruction. Most of the remaining weapons are destroyed, but a few survive to strike the target discharging a crippling wave of oscillating space-time distortions upon the Kotte's hull. The Kotte bucks violently as hull breaches form. Throughout the ship, some systems begin to fail, and consoles spew a shower of sparks as they explode causing fires in some compartments. The synaptic interface jack safeties kick in allowing those connected to overloaded consoles to disconnect safely.
Through a light haze of smoke, Captain Hernandez orders, '[ REPORT! ]'
'[ Tactical Report, Three hits starboard side; Barriers and sub-light propulsion in all enemy frigates are offline; Barriers of the enemy cruiser are offline; Sub-light propulsion of the enemy ship is damaged but functioning at diminished capacity; Enemy cruiser is still advancing. Engineering Report, The warp drive is offline; Scalar drive is operating at 30% capacity; Time to repair three hours; Hull breach on Deck 3 Section D; Regeneration commencing; NRMs active; Repair drones active; Time to repair 10 minutes. Medical Report, Five severe but non-critical injuries ],' reports Commander Reed.
Captain Hernandez somberly orders, '[ Comm, Transmit the following message to Alliance Command; Attach all logs and data. Sitrep follows - Five enemy frigates crippled; Enemy cruiser advancing. Our warp drive is offline, and scalar drive is damaged. We're unable to withdraw. We'll fight as long as possible before initiating Self-Destruct Protocol. Cyberwarfare, Continue data mining and send all information to Alliance Command for analysis. ]'
'[ Aye, aye sir; Sitrep, logs, and data transmission confirmed ]', affirmed Lieutenant Boyle.
'[ Aye, Aye sir, data mining continuing ]', responds Lieutenant Kala.
Captain Hernandez opens ship-wide intercom. Throughout the Kotte, every crew member stops and listens in dead silence as Captain Hernandez begins his announcement, '[ This is the captain. We're unable to withdraw and the enemy cruiser is advancing with the intention of taking this ship. We can't let any information or technology fall into the enemy's hands. Engineering, Prepare to initiate Self-Destruct Protocol. Cyberwarfare, Initiate systems purge. I don't know if a supreme being exists and I know that practicing a religion is considered passé these days, but if you're the religious sort now would be the time pray. ]'
Lieutenant Derim grimly reports, "Sir, we still can't get a clear scan on the enemy vessel, but it appears to be heavily damaged and is repairing itself quickly. Three torpedoes should have destroyed a ship that size."
Captain Epessan is astonished, "What the hell is their armor made of?! Open a channel to the enemy cruiser."
"Channel is open," replies a nervous Lieutenant Kasril.
'[ Receiving a transmission from the enemy cruiser ],' announces Lieutenant Boyle.
'[ Patch it through ],' orders Captain Hernandez.
"Surrender your vessel and your crew will not be harmed. You have 60 of your seconds to comply."
Captain Hernandez replies steadily, '[ Tactical, Divert all power from non-critical systems to weapons; Target the FTL propulsion system, fire control system, and mass effect core of all enemy vessels; Prepare to fire two salvos of standard torpedoes. ]'
'[ Aye, aye sir; Target locks confirmed; Standard torpedoes confirmed and loaded ]', announces Lieutenant Harris.
Captain Hernandez replies coldly, '[ YOU have 45 seconds to withdraw Captain Epessan. ]'
"You have fought valiantly, Captain Hernandez. I admire your determination, but you can't win."
Lieutenant Kala interrupts the conversation, '[ Captain Hernandez, Data mining is complete; All information has been sent to Alliance Command for analysis; Systems purge is complete. One thing of note, Captain Epessan is in violation of four Turian military regulations and one provision of the Citadel Conventions. ]'
Captain Hernandez smirks, '[ Winning wasn't our objective Captain Epessan. There are two very critical things you need to know about the Systems' Alliance. We never surrender. ]'
"And the other?"
Captain Hernandez's voice becomes deadly serious, '[ We never leave anything behind that could be of use to our enemy. ]'
"You'll regret your decision Captain! Cut the transmission!"
Lieutenant Kasril's uneasiness begins to show as she replies, "Transmission is cut."
"Bring all weapons to bear. Target their damaged areas and hit them again! Boarding parties stand-by. I want their technology," commands Captain Epessan.
Lieutenant Derim reports, "Sir, all functional weapons ready."
Commander Ky'yn has subtlety makes his way over to the communications station. He places a reassuring hand on the Lieutenant Kasril's shoulder before leaning down and whispering, "Lieutenant, summon a security team to the bridge … security code Disgraced Honor, authorization code A2-518964. Sweep for system intrusion. I want to know if the Systems' Alliance accessed or copied anything."
Lieutenant Kasril's eyes widen in shock, "Y-yes Commander." Her shaking hands finally begin to move as she enters a security code not used within their lifetime.
"FIRE" shouts Captain Epessan!
Aboard the Kotte, Captain Hernandez calmly commands, '[ Fire all weapons. ]'
Six continuous beams of particle energy are unleashed, and six standard torpedoes are fired simultaneously followed three seconds later by another salvo of torpedoes. The beams hit the turian vessels with deadly accuracy, vaporizing ablative armor and slicing through the remaining armor and into the hull. The five turian frigates succumb to the firepower as a torpedo hits each of their fire control systems and FTL propulsion systems. The particle beams breach their mass effect cores causing them to explode. The turian cruiser fares slightly better as the particle beam quickly vaporizes the ablative armor coating and begins vaporizing the armor and hull trying to get at the mass effect core. The cruiser rocks violently as two standard torpedoes slam into it with incredible force, detonating their zero-point energy payload and disabling their fire control and FTL propulsion systems.
Most of the turian torpedoes are intercepted by the Kotte's PADS, but four detonate against the hull causing systems to overload as she begins to tumble out of control.
'[ REPORT ],' demands Captain Hernandez.
Commander Reed answers, '[ Helm Report, Loss of control, we're tumbling. Tactical Report, All weapons are offline; Five enemy frigates destroyed; Enemy cruiser's fire control and FTL propulsion are offline. Engineering Report, Hull breaches on Deck 2 Section F and Deck 5 Section G; We're venting atmosphere; Regeneration is still active; NRMs are still active; Repair drones are still active. Medical Report, 20 minor to severe critical and non-critical injuries. ]'
Captain Hernandez activates the intercom, '[ Engineering, Initiate reactor overload 60 second countdown; Authorization code Alpha Six Zulu Papa Echo One Eight Five. ]'
'[ Authorization code Alpha Six Zulu Papa Echo One Eight Five voice print confirmed; Neural scan confirmed. Does the Executive Officer concur ],' replies the engineering officer, Commander Nazari?
Commander Reed replies, '[ This is Commander Reed, Authorization code Serra Seven Tango Alpha Hotel Yankee Two Nine Five. I concur. ]'
'[ Authorization code Serra Seven Tango Alpha Hotel Yankee Two Nine Five voice print confirmed; Neural scan confirmed; Executive Officer concurs; Let the log show that that Self-Destruct Protocol has been authorized by the Commanding Officer and the Executive Officer ]', replies Commander Nazari.
Captain Hernandez looks around at the faces of his bridge crew, '[ It has been an honor to serve with you all. Engineering, Execute Self-Destruct Protocol. ]'
Commander Nazari announces over the intercom, '[ Reactor overload initiated. One minute until critical mass. ]'
Captain Hernandez issues his final order, '[ Comm, transmit the following message to Alliance Command. Sitrep follows – the battle is lost; Systems purge has been completed; Self-destruct has been initiated; All hands killed in action. This is the Systems' Alliance cruiser SSV Kotte signing off. ]'
'[ Aye, aye sir; Sitrep transmission confirmed ]', affirmed Lieutenant Boyle.
Aboard the Vindicator, "REPORT," demands Captain Epessan!
"Sir, all of our frigates have been destroyed! Our weapons and FTL are offline. Those energy weapons came within two sections of breaching our mass effect core. Our hull and space frame is severely comprised and barely holding. The enemy cruiser appears to be crippled and drifting," reports Lieutenant Derim.
Captain Epessan grimaces, 'This was far more costly than I anticipated, but the benefits of analyzing their technology could be invaluable.'
"Launch boarding parties; do not fire unless fired upon," orders Captain Epessan.
Lieutenant Derim announces, "Boarding pods are away and approaching the enemy cruis … BY THE SPIRITS! Energy spike off all known scales! Enemy cruiser is going critical!"
The destruction of the Kotte is accompanied by a light so bright everyone on the bridge of the Vindicator has to shield their eyes or risk permanent blindness.
Lieutenant Derim analyzes his console quickly, "Enemy cruiser has been destroyed! High-velocity debris impact in seven seconds!"
"Brace for impact," yells Captain Epessan!
The Vindicator is slammed by the debris from the Kotte's destruction. Ship wide, systems begin to overload in a shower of sparks. Lighting blinks out to be replaced by emergency lighting a second later. The cruiser is knocked to port by the debris from the Kotte.
"REPORT," shouts the Captain Epessan!
Lieutenant Derim coughs through the choking smoke, "All boarding pods have been destroyed. Maneuvering thrusters are offline. The space frame has been compromised. We have multiple hull breaches. Sections 1 through 4 of Deck 3 are … gone. Hull breaches located on Deck 2 Section 5, Deck 4 Section 2, Deck 5 Section 8, and Deck 6 Section 7 caused by debris. Receiving reports of 42 injured, 69 fatalities, and 23 missing."
"What do you mean gone," queries Captain Epessan in shock?
Lieutenant Derim replies, "Sir, those sections simply no longer exist. Those energy weapons sliced right through our armor and hull. Our ablative armor didn't even slow them down."
At this point, the elevator doors of the bridge open to admit five heavily armored and armed marines.
"What the hell are you doing on the bridge," asks the puzzled Captain Epessan?
Commander Ky'yn steps forward, and calmly replies, "I ordered them to the bridge Captain. Pursuant to Regulation 5.2.3 of the military code, you are hereby relieved of command for conduct unbecoming an officer. Pursuant to Regulation 7.1.1 of the military code, you are under arrest for gross negligence. Pursuant to Regulation 8.1.6 of the military code, you are under arrest for allowing sensitive information to fall into the enemy's hands. Pursuant to Regulation 10.2.1 of the military code and Article 3.9.1 of the Citadel Conventions regarding first contact protocols, you are under arrest for initiating aggression against a first contact without just cause. Security, confine Captain Epessan to the brig."
The members of the security team glance at one another in stunned silence. No turian captain has been relieved of command by a subordinate within their lifetime.
Captain Epessan lets out a low growl and lunges at his executive officer. Commander Ky'yn quickly sidesteps the clumsy attack and grabs the disgraced leader behind the neck. While the captain is off-balance, the commander uses the captain's own momentum to spin him around and ram his head into the nearest bulkhead. As the stunned captain begins to collapses against the bulkhead, the commander hauls him up by his throat while drawing his sidearm in one quick, smooth action. He places the cold barrel against the captain's brow plate.
Commander Ky'yn coldly states, "Your incompetence resulted in death of five crews, the destruction of five ships, critical and possibly irreparable damage to this cruiser, and may have created an enemy nation during first contact. A nation with advanced naval technology that we don't yet understand! Take the captain to the brig, if he resists, lethal force is authorized."
The lead marine answers in a professional tone, "Yes sir!" as the broken and disgraced Captain Epessan is fitted with restraints and then dragged from the bridge.
"Notify all department commanders that they are to submit detailed after-action, damage and causality reports along with updated duty records within an hour. Once all reports and logs are submitted, transmit them and all data to Palaven Command. Inform Command we are requesting immediate aid and that there is the possibility that we'll need to abandon ship. Inform Command that I've relieved Captain Epessan of command … full report to follow," orders Commander Ky'yn.
Lieutenant Kasril replies, "Yes Commander."
"Lieutenant Derim, you are now acting executive officer" announced Commander Ky'yn.
Lieutenant Derim stands at attention and fires off a salute, "Acknowledged and accepted Commander!"
I had to re-name the Alliance cruiser because I had mistakenly named it after a country and not a city.
Rapid Reaction Console (RRC) is the hardware portion of the Rapid Reaction Command Suite (RRCS).
-The most important part of effective fleet operations is command, control, and communications. A Rapid Reaction Battle Group (RRBG) is tied together through a specialized network called the Rapid Reaction Command Suite (RRCS). The RRCS is modular in design as well allowing any ship to be designated as the RRBG command ship allowing them to coordinate others or if RRBG command is transferred to another ship; receive maneuver orders and transmit useful data to the command ship. The system includes a user interface consisting of a holographic emitter for real-time 3D display and the control console. The station is operated by the executive officer during combat maneuvers, giving information and taking orders from the captain. Sometimes, a flag officer such as an admiral may operate the station instead of the ship's executive officer.
Point-Area Defense Systems (PADS)
- Point-Area Defense System (PADS) is the latest iteration of the old High Energy Liquid Laser Area Defense System (HELLADS) project. PADS is comprised of collimated pulse particle cannons, which are less powerful than the collimated particle beam emitter array, but with a faster rate of fire and are designed specifically to destroy incoming missile fire and fighter forces. Even though the long range particle beams weapons can perform this task, they are less efficient in that role.
Collimated Particle Beam Emitter Array
-These have been developed into collimated strip arrays for better arc coverage. These arrays are capable of channeling up to 12,000 terawatts of power through up to three separate beams. A 'Double Broadside' arrangement on port and starboard (dorsal and ventral) allow up to six beams to be fired simultaneously. These arrays are also capable of producing more substantial annular confinement beams, effectively tripling their range and mitigating diffusion caused by vaporized ablative armor. This gives them excellent long-range abilities where only torpedoes and missiles could reach before. Secondary collimated arrays, which are only capable of roughly 5,000 terawatts and only two beams, are also installed on some vessels. These secondary arrays are meant for defense against any ships that manage to close range, effectively making it a potent adversary at all ranges. These arrays are capable of beam and pulse firing modes.
Some of the older ships in the fleet still rely on the fixed particle beam arrays which have less power and a more limited firing arc.
Torpedo Payloads – Standard
- Standard payloads, zero-point energy release of up to 1,000 petajoules. The amount of energy release is adjustable.
Torpedo Payloads – Chaff
- Chaff payloads are a concoction of gas, plasma and metallic pellets. These defensive weapons have proven to cause great confusion to incoming guided projectiles, causing them to veer off target, or prematurely detonate. They are also capable of fooling shipboard sensors from afar, setting up a decoy to confuse and divert a pursuer's attention.
Torpedo Payloads – Pulse
- Pulse payloads act essentially like a smoke grenade for starships. When the torpedo impacts the kinetic barriers of another vessel, it causes the barriers to oscillate and distort, causing sensor readings to become distorted much like how light is when passing through disturbed water. It provides a fleeing vessel time to escape, or a vessel on a covert mission to pass by a sensor post unimpeded. These were developed because humanity learned of kinetic barriers from the archives, but were unable to adapt the technology to zero-point energy.