First I would like to thank everyone for sticking with me and all the good reviews you have posted. I will be taking a break from all my stories as this was a terrible year for me. So there are things in my life right now I need to focus on, I hope you all understand. Thank you for your time and patience I hope to see all of you again, but at this time I don't know when I will be returning back to do these stories. Now to answer some questions.
Some people had a problem in chapter 2, let me explain, the reason for the UNSC's actions was because they assumed they were the only Humans in the entire universe before encountering Weir and her people. Now if you were in their shoes you would react in what way? You too would be surprised and wondering how are humans in a completely different galaxy. Their reaction is justified given that after the end of the covenant war there were still some insurrectionists groups out there in the galaxy still hostile to the UNSC. The last thing they needed was for the insurrectionists having the ability to leave the galaxy and set up somewhere else.
As for chapter chapter 5, the Spartans depicted in this story are Spartan IV's they are the real deal, the only reason Ronon was able to go toe to toe with a Spartan is because Spartan IV's out of armor are nowhere near as strong as a Spartan II out of armor which was mentioned in all Halo books and games. The reason for why Ronon was even able to fight against a Sparat IV was because since Ronon's introduction in season 2 Ronon has been a runner for seven years and in that time learned much in not just hunting Wraiths, but fighting Wraiths. Also in season 3 episode 4 "Sateda" he went up against the Wraith Leader and while it was a losing fight, albeit Ronon was exhausted from fighting the dozens of Wraith that came after him, he still hold his own against him, before Beckett shot a drone at the leader and killed him. But to clarify for the last time the Spartans in this story are Spartan IV's, they are not Spartans in name only they are the 'REAL DEAL'.
Ignis Base
Conference Room
May 9, 2556
In the conference room of Ignis base, all senior staff members were gathered, after Captain Alton and the Praeter returned from Taranis and saved the colonists from a super volcano at the request from Doctor Weir. While some of his staff seemed reluctant to always be available at the beckoning call for Weir, especially Dare who feels using limited UNSC resources in a galaxy where they can not resupply is dangerous to them and their people.
The only good thing that came out of the rescue, was getting access to an Ancient warship, the Taranians had access too. But this meeting wasn't to discuss what happened at Taranis, but to discuss the Wraith hive ship on its way to Atlantis.
"According to Weir, in three weeks the hive ship will appear over their planet." Said Alton telling his staff what Weir told him. "I've asked you all here to discuss this matter."
There was silence in the room as all the staff members were digesting this information, until Dare spoke up.
"No offense to Doctor Weir or her people." Said Dare being considerate. "But I don't see how this affects us!"
Alton in his chair leans on the table with his arms placed at the edge. "While Weir never requested it, I offered my assistance to her." Said Alton in a compassionate voice.
"And why would you do that?" asked Yelena as she appeared in the middle of the table holographically clearly not pleased with Alton.
"Because besides them, were the only other players in this galaxy that can actually bring a fight to the Wraith." remarked Faison from reading and seeing mission reports of the many human worlds that are technologically inferior to the Wraith.
Alton nodded his head. "While the Daedalus is a capable ship it doesn't have the firepower to take down a hive." Said Alton as he remembered the battle at Edowin. "And while the Chancellor at Taranis has graciously allowed them to use the Ancient warship it's still in need of repairs."
Alton looks at Crane. "I've request that you and a number of scientists and engineers coordinate with Weir's people in repairing that ship." Said Alton making it a priority. "The more ships we have at our disposal the better our chances."
Crane nodded his head. "Already have a team ready and excited when they heard about that ship." Crane exhilarated and excited himself at the prospect of studying more Ancient technology.
"Can you even fix it?" asked Collins as she joined the conversation. "You don't exactly have much experience in dealing with this kind of tech."
Everyone looked at Crane when Collins said this for confirmation. "We have discovered a number of planets that had Ancient outposts with some technology." Said Crane remembering trips in the field he attended to get a good look at Ancient technology. "Had teams study it and understand the tech, plus we brought the Huragok with us, it took it apart and explained what each component does."
The Huragok or engineer as it's best known for has been the most tremendous help for this expedition. Also, a closely guarded secret, Alton hasn't even told Weir yet, but was apparently going to soon considering it was going with Crane to the warship.
"Make sure nothing happens to it." Said Alton as he stressed how important these engineers were to the UNSC.
As Alton was going to continue, Dare spoke up again. "Captain I fully support sending a team to study and make repairs to that Ancient warship, but committing resources to defending a city I feel we will never get access to, is something we need to consider."
Alton seeing Dare's point of view, as when the first time they entered the city Alton wanted his people to gain access to it, but Weir was reluctant to allow them the pleasure.
"I know where your coming from Captain." Said Alton agreeing with her in some compacity. "But f we ever want access to any of the information they gleam from their own studies into the city, we need to play nice."
Some of the staff could only agree with Alton as the best way to gain access to Atlantis is through Weir and her people, by showing the amount of support they can get.
"We have already made a break through with Crane visiting the city and sharing knowledge with them." Said Alton as he looks to Crane and nodded his head. "Tell them what you told me."
Crane got up from his seat and walked over to the screen on the wall. "Well where do I begin." Said Crane as he brings up images on the wall screen.
Atlantis
Conference Room
In the conference a similar conversation was happening as, McKay was giving his own speech to a small audience.
"It's been a couple of hours since our last mission and I know we have important things to do considering what's headed our way." McKay addressing to the people in the conference room. "I figured now would be better than later when were all busy."
Weir was sitting at the table leaning back in her chair. "By all means Rodney share what you've learned." Weir encouraged, always impressed with the scientists in Atlantis making great discoveries.
"Make it fast Rodney we have a lot to do in a short window to prepare for." Sheppard quipped referring to the Hive ship on its way to Atlantis.
Rodney looked at Sheppard with annoyed look, then went straight to work at the white board he brought in. "A couple of months ago, Doctor Crane of the UNSC arrived in Atlantis to exchange in scientific knowledge." Said McKay as he remembered the months they worked together exchanging information. "The one thing we worked on the most was our own forms of FTL drives."
"What did you learn?" asked Caldwell also present for this meeting.
"They use a form of Slipspace as oppose to us using Hyperspace for interstellar and intergalactic travel." Said McKay as he shows on the white board the math behind Slipspace.
"What's the difference?" asked Sheppard not very interested in this presentation.
McKay looks at Sheppard and sighs heavily. "I was getting to that." Said McKay frustrated at the interruptions. "They use something called a Slipspace drive that allows them to travel at great distances in space, using an eleven non-visible infinitesimal dimensions used for faster-than-light travel."
"Sounds like Hyperspace travel to me." Sheppard commented as he leans in the back of his chair. "I mean what makes this so different."
McKay lifts up his hand. "You would think these forms of travel is similar, but radically different." Said McKay as he goes into further explanation on many different aspects of travel and problems they have compared to their form.
"While there are differences both of our drives they work on the same principles of travel." Said McKay as he comes to a conclusion. "The biggest differences is we our way faster then them, it takes them a lot longer to cross the void between galaxies then we do."
"How big of a difference?" asked Caldwell as he leans closer to learn more.
"Crane wouldn't say how long it took them, but I told them it only takes us 18 days for one of our ships to travel to and back between the Milky Way and Pegasus just to give him an example." Said McKay as many in the room felt discomfort at what McKay did, McKay defended himself. "Look this was the best way to learn something and we did."
While some in the room feel what McKay did was a risk in security, it also showed they have another thing that they can bring to the negotiating table.
"Anything else to report on?" asked Weir as she wanted to get everything out in the open.
Rodney had a concern look on his face as he clears his throat before responding. "Well after doing some more research, I've learned this form of travel in Slipspace makes them completely invisible to Atlantis's long-range sensors."
Everyone in the room had a concern and shocked look on their faces. "Are you telling me they can sneak up right behind us and we wouldn't even know about it?" asked Sheppard through gritted teeth at the idea of being blind-sided.
McKay nodded his head. "The long-range sensors were design to detect ships travelling in Hyperspace, not Slipspace, giving them an edge over us." Said McKay as he explains further. "What they lack in speed they make up for in other areas this being one of them."
"I though you said they work on the same principle?" asked Caldwell surprised to hear this.
"Yes, but both drives travel through different methods." Replied McKay as he try's to placate their concerns. "Even if we can't detect their approach will still be able to detect their window or portal as they call it as it gives off strong radiation the same as hyperspace window."
While the idea of the UNSC having a ship that can travel and can't be detect on their long-range sensors, there were more concerning matters to deal with.
"This is interesting and concerning Rodney." Said Weir as she clasp her hands together. "But right now, we need to focus on the issue at hand."
Rodney nodded his head and returned to his seat. "I was going to get to that." Said Rodney as he adjusts himself in his chair.
Weir looks at everyone. "We have a lot to do and not a lot of time." Said Weir stressing the issue. "Colonel Caldwell your staying for the time being to help deal with the situation."
Caldwell nodded his head. "Even if we head back to Earth, we wouldn't be able to return in the time when that Hive arrives." Said Caldwell thinking it over. "We still have a full load of armaments on the Daedalus, so we don't need to resupply anytime soon."
Weir nodded her head. "Good to hear." Said Weir. "Captain Alton has offered his assistance and will be arriving to Atlantis by ship to coordinate with us."
Sheppard liked the sound of it. "His ship can pack a punch, will need it if this Hive gives us trouble or worse." Said Sheppard as he looks to McKay. "It would also be better to have the Orion as well."
McKay gives Sheppard a look. "I'm getting to it, were just waiting on Crane and his people to arrive to help us." Stated McKay.
"I'm surprised you need help?" jabbed Sheppard in a sarcastic tone.
McKay just grin. "I don't and all honestly I don't think we need their help, no offense to Crane but these guys have no experience with Ancient technology and probably will slow us down." expressed McKay as he thinks how much they'll have to explain certain technologies to Crane and his team.
"Rodney they offered their help and were going to need every capable scientist to get the Orion in working order." Stressed Weir as she explains the situation to Rodney and the need to cooperate.
"What about the Ancient gene?" asked Caldwell joining in the conversation. "All of his people don't have it."
Many in the room realized that, and it was something Weir never mentioned to Alton at all, this was going to be an awkward conversation.
"Will cross that bridge when we get there." Said Weir as she gets up from her chair. "Right now, we all need to get to work and be ready for our guests."
Weir walks out of the conference room and one by one the rest went to work on getting this city ready.
Ignis Base
Conference Room
In the conference room Crane was finishing his explanation into the Atlantis expedition's Hyperdrive technology and how it's a better version over their Slipspace drive.
"That would be something we would like to get our hands on." Inquired Dare thinking how fast their ships could go. "We would have a far greater advantage in our galaxy against the Covenant remnant."
Alton could only agree with Dare, considering the distance between Pegasus and their galaxy wasn't as far away from Path Kethona
"Just another thing to add to the list of what we want." Said Alton as he leans forward in his chair. "In the meantime, lets continue."
"Sir what sort of assistance are you going to offer Weir?" asked Faison as he contemplates what can be given to them.
"Will first head to Atlantis and coordinate with their people on a proper defense." Said Alton as he looks around the room. "We need to be prepared for anything."
As everyone in the room understood this they all got up from their seats and headed out the door, except for Dare.
"Captain Alton there's something you need to know." Said Dare as she sits back in her seat and explains to Alton about a certain information Weir left out to explain to them.
"Ancient gene?" asked Alton confused. "Are you telling me Ancient technology can't be used without a certain genetic marker that acknowledges them."
Dare nodded her head. "That's the reason why the Genii set up that bounty on Weir's people, they all had this gene that allows them to operate Ancient technology specifically those puddle jumpers of theirs."
"Where did you come across this information?" Alton demanded as it has been months since first contact.
"The guest we have locked up in one of our prison cells." Said Dare referring to Cowen who provided them with information on Weir and her people.
Alton took this information in and while he should be feeling annoyed at the secret Weir kept from them, he couldn't hold it against her, she was not only protecting her people, but he himself keeps secrets from her.
"I understand why she didn't tell us, and I won't bring it up with her." Said Alton as he gets up from the chair. "But it sounds similar to Forerunner technology."
Dare gets up as well. "Besides the engineers turning on Forerunner technology, Humanity is also capable of doing that, unknown if the humans in the Pegasus galaxy or whether Weir and her people wherever they came from can do the same thing."
As the two headed out the door they continue this conversation.
Ignis Base
Research Lab
Alton and Dare arrived at the research lab to converse with Collins on any possible defense or weapon against the Wraith.
Collins standing in front of the two in her white lab coat drinking some coffee was answering Alton and Dare's questions. "Considering test done on the retro virus I'd say it seems more of a possible option." Said Collins as she takes another sip of coffee.
Alton and Dare looked at each other unsure about the retro virus.
"Considering what happened to Michael I'd say the retro virus is not an optional choice." Said Dare remembering the reports about the Wraith turned human. "For all we know Michael could be on that Hive ship."
Collins on the other hand beg to differ. "I've been working with Doctor Beckett on the Retro virus and continued into our research after Michael escaped."
"And?" asked Dare humoring Collins for an explanation.
Collins looks away for a moment clearly not convinced herself. "We've made some progress in refining it and weaponizing the retro virus." Said Collins but began to rethink about it. "However, I feel as though we might he hitting a snag or two."
Alton and Dare looked at each other and back at Collins. "Is there anything in this lab you've been working on that can help?" asked Alton searching alternative methods.
Collins thinks for a moment and gestures to the both of them to follow her. "I have been working on something since we've gotten a stable supply of the Wraith enzyme." Said Collins as she goes over to table and presses a few buttons, the table opens and up comes a tray of vials, she picks one vial from the tray and presents it to Alton and Dare.
At first glance of it, it was a dark purple colored liquid contained in the vial.
"When we first learned about the Wraith about their enzyme and the Hoffan drug and how the two put together makes a poison, I managed to recreate the poison when combining the two together." Collins said with pride in herself.
Alton and Dare were surprised to hear this. "You manage to create the toxin that can kill the Wraith?" asked Alton skeptical in his voice.
"The poison can kill the Wraith when subjected to an injection." Said Collins as she brings up her report on testing it on one of their Wraith prisoners they had acquired from Lieutenant Fords gang after they dismantled their operations. "However, I tested it out on a lab animal and it too died as well complete organ failure in both cases."
Alton didn't like the sound of that. "This poison can also work on humans?" asked Alton sounding disappointed.
Collins nodded her head reluctantly. "Unfortunately, yes." Lamented Collins, not pleased with herself. "Tests confirm the poison would affect humans just as much as the Wraith."
"I thought humans who had the Hoffan drug were immune?" asked Dare remembering the reports from Beckett.
"In that case, the Wraith fed on the subject, but could not transmit the enzyme to suck the life force out of them and inadvertently created a poison that transmitted back to him." Collins clarifying and explaining the situation. "Doctor Beckett never found a trace of the poison in the subject, but he still died from respiratory problems."
Alton took a moment to consider the situation. "Your saying the means to make this poison depends on the method?" asked Alton trying to clarify with Collins.
Collins nodded her head. "It's possible there is something else being used when the Wraith drain the life force out of someone besides the enzyme." Explained Collins trying her best to determine another reason for the poison. "At this time, we still don't know the full extent of the Wraith feeding process."
"What about the Hoffan drug?" asked Dare changing the subject. "Any progress with that?"
Collins shakes her head. "My people are working on the refinement but still nothing to show for it at this time." Said Collins not pleased with the research done.
Alton and Dare satisfied with this, changed another topic.
"Thank you Doctor for this information, there's something else we want you to look at." Said Alton getting to another matter.
Collins looked intrigued. "What is itt."
"Remember when you took blood samples from Sheppard and his team?" asked Dare, Collins nodded her head. "We want you to take a look at something for us."
Ignis Base
R&D
Dare wasn't finished reporting to Alton about what else she learned from Cowen and the next stop was the R&D lab where Crane was working.
In the lab in a special area Crane was studying something he had connected to a device of unknown origin. It was a translucent group of primarily orange-colored crystals approximately one foot in height with a roughly cylindrical shape with a small red circle at the top.
Alton approached Crane. "Doctor!" Alton said getting Cranes attention from his work.
"Captains." Said Crane as he gets up form his chair to face the two. "How can I help you?"
Alton looks at the strange device in front of him. "What exactly is that." He gestures with his hands at the device.
Crane scratches his head. "From the information we acquired it's supposed to be some kind of power source used in Atlantis." Said Crane still unsure of what of kind power it uses.
Alton looks at Dare accusingly. "A power source used by Atlantis?" Alton wondered as he asked.
Dare looked at Alton. "The information came from Cowen." Declared Dare as she crosses her arms. "We learned from him that the Atlantis expedition are looking for these kinds of power sources and the Genii used this to lure Sheppard and his team into a trap."
Alton seemed convinced, but that was months ago. "Why did you waited until now to report this?" Demanded Alton as he wanted to know everything. "And where did you get this."
"When we went into rescue Sheppard and his team, one of my priorities was to capture Cown." Dare explained to Alton. "When we found him, we also found this as well and took with us."
Alton walked up to the device and stared at it. "What have you learned." Alton asked moving on.
Crane stood next to Alton. "The expedition calls it a Zero Point Module, or ZPM." Crane revealed the name of the device. "Ancient in origin given its connection to Atlantis, the ZPM is out of power, but from my latest tests on the crystals that compose the shell of the ZPM contains the necessary programs to allow ZPMs to provide power as well as a buffer to prevent catastrophic overload."
Alton had a confused look on his face. "This tiny thing can cause an overload?" Alton asked in disbelief of something this size can do that.
"We have no idea what kind of power it uses." Crane explained as he goes into detail. "Also, it appears to be depleted no power at all, just programs in the crystals exist."
Alton nodded his head and looked at Dare. "And you brought me here because?" Alton asked looking for an explanation.
Dare leaned back a little. "From what we learned from Cowen there is at least another ZPM out there, under the control of a group of humans call the brother hood." Dare with excitement in her voice.
"You want to inform Atlantis?" Inquired Alton as he looks at Dare unsure if this is what she wanted to do.
Dare shook her head. "Atlantis already tried to acquire this ZPM from these guys, but failed." Mused Dare at they're attempts. "We find these people and switch our dead one, for theirs."
Alton crossed his arms. "Clearly you forgot there is a Wraith Hive ship heading for Atlantis as we speak." Alton ticked off that Dare would be focusing on something so trivial when a threat was heading to there allies. "We can't spend resources on finding these people."
"I can have some of my people coordinate with a number of GR teams to start at the planet where they were last seen." Dare requested, stressing the need to find this power source.
Alton felt conflicted on the request as he would rather put all resources in preparing for the Hive, but on one hand if they acquire this Ancient power source they could use it themselves, or better would be to give it to Atlantis.
"Alright Dare, I'll allow the search for this brother hood, but under no circumstances are you to attack these people." Stressed Alton as he would prefer not to cause more problems. "But if you manage to find this ZPM, before the Hive arrives, were giving it to Atlantis."
Dare was expecting this, Alton was to generous for his own good and she felt that something this important shouldn't be given freely without an incentive from Atlantis.
"Fine." Grumbled Dare as she was not pleased by that last part. "I'll begin setting up a team to head for the planet."
As Dare leaves the room, Alton could only hope that she follows orders.
Atlantis
Week 1
Conference Room
In the conference room we're Weir, Caldwell, and Sheppard on one side of the table while Alton, Dare, and Faison arrived by ship we're sitting on the other side.
"The Titus is ready to take both science teams to the Orion to get her in working order." Said Dare as she volunteered to taxi the geek squad to repair the ship and to do some reconnaissance on the Hive ship heading to Atlantis. "Once I drop them off, I'll head to one of the resting stops that Hive ship has to make periodically."
"Try to get some intel for us when your out there." Said Sheppard wanting to know what's heading there way.
"That's my job, Colonel." Said Dare leaning in the back of her chair.
"While Dare is doing that, we need to form a plan, if that Hive has hostile intentions." Said Alton as he leans forward on the table.
"They're Wraith!" Stated Sheppard having a lot of experience dealing with them. "It's clear what their intentions are."
"All the more reason to come up with a sound strategy." Rebuffed Alton the years of experience in him during the great war telling him what needed to be done. "We should first focus on defense for this city."
"Atlantis has a shield that protects the whole city." Said Weir telling what Atlantis has. "We also have offensive capabilities."
"Such as?" asked Alton.
Weir was reluctant to reveal it, but had to, she was about to say something, but Sheppard beat her to it.
"We have about a dozen railguns spread out around the city mostly concentrated near the towers." Said Sheppard crossing his arms and leaning back.
"That's it?" asked Faison jokingly at the offensive capabilities.
"Atlantis also has these things called drones, they're like missiles but better as it can track enemy ships with pinpoint accuracy." Said Sheppard with a grin on his face.
While the UNSC has never seen these drones, they can only assume its some form of Ancient weapon.
"Will have to go over everything while planning our strategy." Said Alton as he raises from his chair. "Shall we get started."
Everyone in the room got up from their chairs and headed out the door. Each one heading to where they needed to be.
Lantea
Orbit
UNSC
Praeter
Bridge
On board the bridge of the Praeter Alton invited Caldwell to come aboard to discuss a battle plan. Caldwell brought along his xo to be part of these military strategies. Caldwell was impressed with the ship, and while he wasn't given a tour what he did see, made him happy to have the UNSC as allies.
Alton brought Caldwell to the holo table where battle scenarios could be played out holographically.
"Here is where will come up with a plan." Said Alton as he stands on one side of the table.
Caldwell and his xo stand on the other side facing Alton. "So how does this thing work?" asked Caldwell he places his hands gently on the table.
Alton smiled and pressed a button to his side and the image changed on the table to the current system they were in. This made Caldwell and his xo back away when the hologram appeared in mid air above the table. "Were going to have to run a number of these to determine the best possible outcome."
Caldwell regained his composure and walked slowly back to the table. "How many times do you plan on fighting the Wraith?" Joked Caldwell as he looks at the screen. "But, lets make sure we can get through this one."
Alton nodded his head. "Agreed." Said Alton as the two began to work, Henderson walked over to Alton.
"Sir Captain Dare wanted to let you know she was leaving." Said Henderson as he walks away.
Alton nodded his head and hoped Crane and the rest of the scientists can get the job done.
Atlantis
Balcony
Sheppard was giving Faison a tour of the city, more accurately giving him a tour for him to strategize with Sheppard.
"This city is big." Said Faison looking out on a balcony. "Could fit the entire crew of the Praeter and it still wouldn't be full."
Sheppard was looking at the city as well. "Yeah its amazing alright, all the more reason to defend it." Said Sheppard as he and Faison continued.
"How many military personnel do you have?" asked Faison.
Sheppard began to think for a moment. "I'd say about 120." Said Sheppard. "32 of them including me are sent out through the gate to explore."
Faison deduced it to eight four-man teams, considering the amount of encounters he has had with Sheppard and his people. "Will have to coordinate across the city." Said Faison thinking of the best place to put his Spartans at. "My Spartans and I are best at the front line to defend this city."
Sheppard had an awkward look on his face. "I don't think Weir is going to allow any Foreign Military access to Atlantis." Said Sheppard making a point.
Faison understood where Sheppard was coming from, if they're roles were reversed he wouldn't want a foreign military to enter the city and possibly try and take it from them. "You don't have to decide anything yet." Said Faison reassuring Sheppard. "Just letting you know where best my people should be if the Wraith invade."
Sheppard nodded his head and continued the tour of the city.
Orion
Bridge
On board the bridge of the Orion, both groups of scientist were gathered to begin their repairs on the ship. But first Crane had to get something out of the way.
"Dr. McKay allow me to introduce someone to you." Said Crane as he nodded to his people.
After a few seconds a creature the Atlantis expedition has never seen before came floating onto the bridge, while the expedition new about the Covenant and have seen images of them before, its one thing to see an image its completely different to meet an alien of the Covenant, so the reaction from the scientists were well founded.
"What the HELL is that thing." Said McKay as he jumps from his place and backs away from the creature.
"What is it?" asked Zelenka staring at the alien creature in amazement and fear as there were no Atlantis military personnel to protect them or UNSC for that matter.
"This is Hardest Worker." Said Crane giving the alien a name. "He's a Huragok or more commonly to us an engineer from our galaxy."
"Is this the same creature that took part in wiping out most of your people?" asked McKay, Crane nodded his head as it would be best to let everything out. "Why the HELL would you bring one of them here of all places."
Before Crane could explain, the Huragok floated over to one of the consoles and began to fiddle around with it, this made McKay yell at it.
"Hey smelly alien get away form there." Shouted McKay, but Hardest Worker ignored McKay and to his shock and the rest of the Atlantis scientists they gathered around to see why the name engineer was a befitting title for it.
The Huragok began to take apart the console with its four-tentacles splitting them into many fine cilia which amazed the expedition seeing this for the first time. Hardest Worker took the console a part and made different configurations of it and put back together without any piece missing from it.
"Wow." Said McKay amazed at what this alien creature could do.
Crane walked up to McKay. "I never get tired of seeing that." Said Crane with a big smile. "He can fix anything as long as he has the right materials."
McKay soon came out of his shocked expression and looked at Crane. "Wha…what did you say his name was again?" asked McKay mumbling.
"Hardest Worker." Said Crane as he thinks it's a good name for him. "We should get to work now."
McKay nodded his head. "We should first work on the Hyperdrive get it working so we can fly it back to Atlantis." Said McKay thinking of what needed the most work.
"Good, thinking its best if we go there, that way we don't have to keep shuttling back and forth to this system and have all materials ready for us closest to home." Said Crane as he gestures for McKay to lead the way.
The two men leave for the engine room, while the rest of the science teams work on other parts of the ship, as for Hardest Worker he went around the ship studying everything about this new technology in front of him as he absorbs everything he learns.
Space
Titus
Bridge
On board the bridge of the Titus Captain Dare and her people were preparing for the arrival of the hive ship at one of the many stops it has to make.
As the crew were getting ready, Dare was standing at the holo projector waiting for the arrival of the Hive.
Dare maintaining her composure spoke to her people. "Make sure we get as much information as we can."
Dare's second in command joined her at the holo table. "What do you expect from observing a Hive ship." Unsure of Dare's motives. "We've seen plenty of them."
Dare looked at her second. "We need to find any weak spots it might have." Dare pointing out the reason for them being there. "The Praeter's last engagement gave us a lot of data, but we still need to investigate further."
Before her second could respond, a hyperspace window opened and out came the Hive.
"Lets begin." Dare said with determination in her voice as she looks at the holographic image of the Hive.
Week 2
Lantea System
Space
I the vast quietness of space in the Lantea system, a squadron of F-302 fighter interceptors along with F-41 Exo-atmospheric Multirole Strike Fighter also known as broadswords were in a joint exercise training to coordinate their movements and attack formations. Both groups were taking part in mock battles preparing for the Hive ships to arrive.
UNSC
Praeter
Bridge
The first week had passed preparing for the arrival of the Hive ship, in that time many things were done in preparation. The scientists that were sent to repair the Ancient warship was able to get the Orion's hyperdrive working and flew the ship back to Atlantis where it remained in Orbit finishing the rest of the repairs.
When the Orion arrived immediately the Alliance between the two was almost damaged due to secrets being revealed. Weir confronted Alton about the Huragok, while Alton shot back about the Ancient gene they concealed from them, while emotions were flared for a moment both agreed to put the matter aside for now and focus on the Hive.
On the bridge Alton was running a number of simulations with Yelena incorporating the Orion into the strategy.
"What about this plan of action?" Alton asked with a serious look in his eye as this was one of a dozen simulations that were ran through.
After a few seconds Yelena gave her opinion. "Possible, if Doctors Crane and McKay can get the ship working." Said Yelena as she looked over the information. "However, the ship still has adequate time to send out a message to the other Wraith in the galaxy."
Alton leaned on the table with one hand while the other pinched the bridge on his nose. Going over every simulation was exhausting especially considering every scenario there was not enough adequate timing to destroy the Hive without them sending a message.
Normally for the UNSC, if you knew the enemy was coming they would wait in place and open up on the enemy as soon as they dropped out of Slipspace. Or in the case of Admiral Cole during the battle Psi Serpentis or known widely amongst the UNSC Cole's last stand was the highest achievement in the UNSC's history until the Master Chief beat that record. Cole had done extensive research in the Slipspace travel as during that time UNSC Slipspace drives were not as advance as today and made a perfect accurate in-system Slipspace travel.
Alton didn't have to worry about making accurate travel in-system as the Forerunner engines along with Yelena make accurate in system jumps, so getting into position was not a problem for the Praeter.
As Alton shook his head to bring him back to reality, he walked over to his chair and sat in it. "What's our time?" Alton asked an officer to his right as he lifts one leg up and lays it on the other.
"Were coming up to a schedule simulation of the Hive ship entering the system." Said the officer as she began pressing buttons. "The Daedalus is scheduled to join us in this simulation."
Alton nodded his head. "Let's begin then."
Atlantis
Gate Operations
In the gate control room GR-1 arrived to participate in the defense of Atlantis, they were greeted by Sheppard at the gate.
"Welcome back Colonel Lang." Sheppard greeting the UNSC flag ship team.
"Glad to be back." Lang acknowledging Sheppard's welcome. "I understand our timeframe is short."
"Just one more week, so we better get started." Sheppard explained while gesturing for them to follow him.
Atlantis Corridors
In the corridors of Atlantis Sheppard lead the UNSC team down the hall. GR-1 was amazed at the city, the architecture was different from the architecture in their galaxy.
"We plan to have all civilians designated to their rooms when the Hive arrives and all military personal in the tower and outer surroundings." Said Sheppard explaining the plan to them.
"Makes sense, you don't have the manpower and focus on the most important area." Lang exclaimed seeing the importance of Stargate operations.
"Yeah, which is why Weir has allowed a limited number of UNSC military personal to enter the city when the Hive arrives as back up." Sheppard fretted as he felt uncomfortable allowing a military not from Earth enter the city. "You will be spread out and be paired with our military."
Lang understood Sheppard's feelings, she too would feel uncomfortable in this situation. "Colonel your feelings are sound, I too would feel uncomfortable if our roles were reversed." Lang empathized with Sheppard's feelings. "Just wanted you to know the UNSC has no intentions of taking advantage of the situation."
Sheppard was reluctant to believe her considering all his training, but after the many times her team came to their aid this once he will put his faith in her. "I appreciate you telling me all this, maybe once this is over, I'll treat you and your team to some refreshments from our planet." Said Sheppard with excitement in his voice as they continue walking. "You guys have alcohol where you're from?"
Orion
Bridge
On the bridge of the Orion, McKay was coordinating the many scientists around the ship to send them to fix damage power conduits or other damages to the ship. Damages outside the ship were being done, by a combination of Puddle Jumpers and Pelicans making repairs to any hull breaches or damage shield emitters.
McKay was impressed with how fast and the progress they were making, considering the amount of help they were getting from the UNSC and that alien creature the Huragok or engineer to them.
As McKay was coordinating the science team Crane was working on the bridge connecting his computer to the consoles. He was learning everything about this ship and while the ship was advance compared to some vessels, but compared to the Forerunner ship the Covenant used years ago is in a different class of its own.
"How's it coming with those shield repairs?" Crane asked from his station on the bridge.
McKay pulled the radio in his hand away from himself while also working on his computer. "Shield repairs are almost finished." An excited McKay as he continues to type on his computer. "That engineer of yours is already making repairs to the weapon systems, will soon be able to fire the drones without compromising power to shields."
Crane grin with excitement. "Sounds good, the Captain will be pleased to hear this." Chimed in Crane as he continues to work.
As repairs to the ship commences the Hive ship on its approach to the city continues ever closer.
Dagan
On the planet Dagan the last known location of the Brother hood of the Quindosim, GR 3 and 7 were escorting a team of ONI to find this group. On the planet ONI were investigating not only the village where they were last seen, but also investigating the Stargate.
"Do you know where they went?" asked an ONI officer.
Another ONI officer was working on the Stargate with a computer tablet as she was looking up all the addresses left on the imprint as she compiled a list of each one.
"Once again 50 addresses." Said the officer as she looks at her tablet. "It's a lot of ground to cover sir."
The officer nodded his head. "Will apprise Dare of the situation, but she will want us to continue finding these people." Said the officer as he begins dialing the gate. "Will head back to Ignis base to prepare teams to investigate these planets."
Final Week
Atlantis
Conference Room
In the conference room everyone was gathered to discuss the final plan.
"The Hive will show up in three days." Weir said in concern for her expedition. "Before we get into this, I want to say thank you, to all who are here for their hard work and assistance in this matter."
Everyone nodded their heads appreciating Weir's words. "Whatever happens I hope we all come out of this together." Weir said comforting everyone.
"After all this preparation, I feel comfortable will be able to handle one single Hive ship." Alton said with conviction in his voice as he begins his explanation. "As stated before when the Hive arrives, Atlantis will be cloaked, but in the unlikely event the Hive is able to detect you on the planet the Daedalus will move in as a distraction, getting the Hives attention."
Caldwell then join the conversation. "While were distracting the Hive, Captain Alton jumps his ship behind the Hive and attacks."
"Then I move the Orion in and finish the job." Said Sheppard being part of the plan since he was going to be in command of the Orion, while Beckett will be responsible for the control chair in Atlantis.
"All military personnel will be coordinated by Loren in conjunction with UNSC personnel." Said Colonel Lang contributing to the dicussion as she begins explaining the operation in the city. "While this is happening all non-military personal will need to stay in their rooms, close to the stargate as possible, if we need to make an immediate evacuation of the city."
"Will need to prepare for any possibility and prepare for the unexpected." Alton continued. "But if we work together we can make it through this."
Everyone began leaving the conference room to prepare for the arrival of the Hive.
UNSC
Praeter
Bridge
On board the bridge Captain Alton activated the intercom. "Attention crew, I know it's been a long three weeks and all the past training we've done will be put to the test in three days." Alton praising his crew with their dedication and hard work. "For the time being I want all crew to rest and be prepared for what's about to come."
Alton walks away from the intercom and heads for the holographic table, Yelena appears on the table. "I've heard better prep talks in from a school councilor then the one you made." Yelena sarcastically said as she walks around the table.
"Not my best, but for right now I need my crew at one hundred percent for this." Alton said with caution for his people. "Has Dare made any contact recently?"
Yelena closed her eyes as lines of code ran through her body. "She will be here before the Hive arrives." Yelena said in uncaring attitude as she looks at her hand in a gesture of examining her fingernails.
Alton nodded his head, he wanted to make sure everyone was together. "Is there anything to report in the mean time?"
Yelena thinks for a moment. "Doctor Crane would like to see you, Captain."
Alton nodded his head, Crane did wanted report on his findings of the Ancient ship he was working on. "Tell him to meet me in the conference room."
Conference Room
In the Conference room of the Praeter, Crane was reporting his findings to Alton as he explains the amount of information he acquired and what the engineer learned from fixing much of the technology on board the Ancient ship.
"I have to admit Ancient technology has massive redundancies and the extensive use of Control crystals." Crane acknowledged the Ancients advance technology. "Compared to the Covenant or ours were still a long way."
"How does it measure up to Forerunner technology?" Alton inquired as he was interested in knowing.
Crane took a deep breath and sighed heavily. "Both technologies are unique in regards to their designs and how long they can last through the thousands of years of being inactive." Complemented Crane as he struggles with giving a straight answer. "Currently I've spent a good deal learning and working on both technologies and both sides have advanced in certain areas over the others, but if I had to make a choice, I would say Forerunner technology is still more advance albeit, the Ancients being this close to them."
Crane indicating with his fingers the distance between both technologically advance races, not being much far apart.
"Is that your final assessment on the technology?" Alton questioned as he wanted to continue preparing.
"The Huragok gathered much information as it was repairing the ship." Crane remarked as he brought up information on a table. "As you know the Huragok's are practically biological super computers capable of storing and sharing information, now Hardest Worker attended to many problems on the ship, from fixing damage power relays, to shields and hyperdrive, as well as the weapon systems."
Alton leaned in closer, interested in the information acquired. "What did he learn?"
"Much." Crane excited. "The weapons alone are impressive, but limited." Crane goes into detail that the weapons on board the Orion are like missiles once depleted there's nothing else, but the ship was also equipped with pulsar weapons, but the weapons itself didn't have the firepower to do much damage.
"Can we manufacture these drones ourselves?" Alton asked attracted at the idea of acquiring a new weapon.
Crane had a not so positive look on his face. "While the engineers are impressive, I'm afraid we won't be able to build these due to much of the material is unknown." Crane explained. "However, thanks to their understanding of how this technology works, will be able to reconfigure our shields to have a strong resistance to these types of weapons."
While Alton would have liked to get his hands on these weapons and begin making them, improved shields is what he will settle for.
"Good work Doctor." Alton praising Crane's hard work.
Atlantis
Conference Room
In the conference room, Weir gathered Caldwell, Sheppard, and McKay to discuss the progress they've made in the last three weeks.
McKay was the first to present his results of the Orion's repairs. "Thanks to the help from the UNSC and their alien friend, we've managed to restore the Orion to its original state before being damaged."
"So, it's ready for a battle?" Weir wondered as the prospect of having Orion would greatly improve their chances.
McKay grinned. "Oh, its ready, I wish I could see the look on the Wraith when they see the Orion appearing on the scene." McKay excited of the amount of work about to pay off.
"How many drones does the Orion have?" asked Caldwell in the event they do have to fight the Hive it would be in every one's interest that Hive ship be destroyed as soon as possible.
"Enough to destroy a Hive ships and still plenty left over." McKay answered.
"Sounds good to me." Stated Weir as she moved on, looking at both Caldwell and Sheppard. "Thank you Rodney, what about the two of you?"
"With the extra man power were getting from the UNSC, will be able to cover a larger area in the unlikely event the Wraith manage to bypass the shields." Reported Sheppard as he went over the plan a dozen times. "Major Loren will be in responsible for coordinating our and the UNSC's people, while I take command of the Orion."
"The Daedalus in conjunction with the Praeter has been through simulation of the Hive showing up." Said Caldwell with exhaustion in his voice over the many times they went through the practice in getting both crews ready. "Right now, were giving our people time to rest."
Weir nodded in understanding. "What's the latest report from Captain Dare on the Hive?" Weir inquired for information.
"Alton transmitted what Captain Dare sent him to us." Sheppard responded. "Nothing new on the Hive, only Dare is breaking off shadowing it and heading back to Ignis base."
Weir hearing this nodded her. "I want to thank all of you for you hard work these three weeks, I know it hasn't been easy, but what ever happens my first priority is the safety of this expedition and to make sure the Wraith never reach Earth." Weir stressed the importance of that last statement as each person in the room new how important it was to prevent the Wraith from reaching their galaxy.
System
Lantea
3 days later
UNSC
Praeter
Bridge
The day had finally arrived as the Hive ship approached ever closer, The Praeter, Daedalus, and Orion were all out of sensors range to prevent the Hive knowing about the Orion or the Praeter and to get the jump on them should they open fire on the city. Atlantis long range sensors was tracking the Hive even in Hyperspace which was impressive to Alton and his people. Alton however was concern that they might be able to track them with this sensors, but according to Crane they may not be able to for a while until McKay reconfigures the sensors to detect their form of travel.
Alton put that in the back of his mind as he thinks one step at a time, as he needed to deal with a Hive ship first. As the time on the count down clock was ever approaching zero Lieutenant Henderson walked up to the Alton in his chair.
"Captain if you don't mind me asking?" requested Henderson as he wanted to get Alton's opinion on something.
Alton turned to look at his executive officer. "Speak your mind Lieutenant." Alton politely said while wanting to speed up the conversation.
"If this Hive manages to send out a signal alerting the other Wraith that Atlantis is still intact, what do we do then?" Henderson asked cautioned at the thought of more Hive ships showing up.
Alton had the same thing in mind, and inputted that in the simulation, it gave Alton a zero percent chance against fighting more than two Hive ships given all the data they had on their last engagement.
"Will cross that bridge when we get there." Said Alton not too confident in dealing with a whole fleet of Hives.
Soon after Weir got on the radio with everyone connected. "Captain Alton, Colonel Caldwell, and Colonel Sheppard are you all in position?" Weir asked over the radio trying her best to be strong in this moment.
Each commander reported in confirming their position. "Excellent, remember the plan." Said Weir.
"Just for the record, I still think that we should be in orbit around Atlantis, ready to open up on that Hive ship the second it comes out of hyperspace." Caldwell said pointing out his desire to take on the Hive.
"One Hive ship coming here by itself, Colonel." Alton pointed out. "Rather not be dragged into a fight if we can avoid it."
Caldwell on the other hand disagreed. "I prefer firing the first shot, not let the enemy get the upper hand."
Sheppard soon join the conversation. "I agree with Caldwell the Orion has a fully stock pile of Drones we can use to destroy that Hive in an instant." Sheppard chimed in on his opinion. "What would be the point in spending all that time in fixing this ship if were not going to use it in combat."
"I respect your opinion, Colonel." Said Alton giving Sheppard a boost in confidence. "But it would be better to save the Orion's drones for another time."
Alton soon changed channels on his radio. "Captain Dare what's your status?" Alton requesting Dare to respond.
"Were in orbit, cloaked of course." Dare specified on her situation. "Atlantis doesn't know were here, right?"
"I didn't mention it to Weir or anybody else outside of our people." Alton concluded that part of the conversation. "Just be ready to assist if things take a turn for the worst."
Dare chuckled over the radio. "Like we can do anything." Remarked Dare on the Titus being stealth ship than a combat one. "I would have contributed more if we knew exactly where that Hive was going to drop out of Hyperspace, I would have laid down some Hornet mines for it."
"The last thing we need is to alert them of is Atlantis is still around." Alton stressed the issue, but before Dare could respond the timer reached zero indicating the Hives arrival.
Alton and the rest of the crew were on the edge of their seats waiting to jump into position. "Captain Dare what's the status of the Hive?" Alton probing for information as he wasn't there.
"Hive is taking up geosynchronous orbit." Replied Dare as she takes a deep breath. "Were moving the ship at a distance giving us some breathing room."
"Good idea, in the mean time I will be switching back to Weir keep radio contact at all times." Alton soon switched the channels back to Weir. "Doctor Weir what's your status?"
"We're just waiting for them to make the next move." Weir informing Alton of the situation as she prepares herself.
After a few seconds Yelena appeared next to Alton. " Their transmitting a signal, audio only." Said Yelena as she picked the signal up from the Titus.
Alton didn't waste time. "Put it on speaker." A male voice comes over the speakers on the bridge.
"We know you are there. We mean you no harm." The male voice said in a none threating manner. "Please respond."
Weir spoke on the radio. "Are you all hearing this?" Weir asked in disbelief.
"It's repeating again." Said Yelena as she concentrates on the signal.
"We mean you no harm. There is no point in hiding, Doctor Weir." The male voice said shocking everyone on the radio. "We know you are there. We mean you no harm. Please respond."
"Is that who I think it is?" Sheppard asked fuming with anger.
"He's addressing me by name." Weir said with a concern tone of voice. "I think we can assume it's Michael."
Alton leaned in his chair hands clasping together. "Things just got more complicated."
Atlantis
Conference Room
In the conference room, Alton, Dare, Caldwell, Sheppard, Teyla, Ronon, Beckett, and Weir were gathered to discuss what had transpired. Apparently, Weir had a conversation with Michael and in a bazaar twist the Hive ship came to Atlantis for one thing, Doctor Becketts retro virus for the purpose of using it against other Wraith and feeding on them. This meeting was to discuss where to go from here.
"Well, I think it's safe to say that if they were going to attack us, they would have done it by now." Caldwell remarked as he remembers flying the ship past the Hive without taking aggressive action. "They let the Daedalus land without incident."
Weir turns to Sheppard and Alton. "Are both of you sure they don't know about the Orion or the Praeter?"
Sheppard nodded his head. "I ordered Lorne park her just outside of sensor range." Sheppard replied as he remembered handing control of the ship to him.
Alton had been picked up by the Daedalus like Sheppard did, he flew one of his Pelicans into the ship, as for Dare, she too was picked up as soon as her ship left orbit to meet the Daedalus, Weir would have been upset not knowing the Titus was parked and cloaked in geosynchronous orbit above Atlantis, but desperate times can change people. "I had the Praeter parked behind the gas giant just as a precaution." Explained Alton as his ship was the biggest in the galaxy, and not hard to miss it, if the Wraith sent out any scouts.
Rodney looks up from a laptop that he has been studying, through out the conversation, neck deep in his work.
"This… this is incredible!" Stammered Rodney in disbelief at what he was doing. "I can't believe they actually sent this over so freely. I mean, if I can figure out how to break through this program which is, well, as you know, pretty likely we could nuke any hive ship that we came across."
"Including Michael's?" Probed Weir as she was interested in knowing.
McKay thought about it for a moment. "Well, it might take a couple of tries the first time." Hesitated McKay as he was unsure himself.
"Long enough to tell the rest of the Wraith we're still around." Pointed out Sheppard as he was concern of more Hive ships heading there way if things didn't work out.
McKay turned to Weir with desired look in his eyes. "If they really are willing to let me run tests on their ship, I mean, this is a ... it's an amazing opportunity, Elizabeth!" Declared Rodney at the prospect of studying a Hive ship up close and personal.
Alton and Dare looked at each other confused by the conversation they were hearing. "Excuse us!" Alton said as he made known of his presence to the room, gathering everyone's attention. "What are all of you talking about?"
"How are you able to nuke any Hive ship that comes your way?" Dare insisted as she too was curious about what they were saying.
Weir, Sheppard, McKay, and Caldwell all had awkward looks on their faces as this was something they thought they would take awhile for them to reveal.
"I will discuss this with the two of you later, I promise." Offered Weir as a means to put the subject on the side, Alton and Dare were not pleased but conceited as they had other problems to deal with.
Weir then turned the conversation back on track. "An opportunity Rodney doesn't sound very appealing considering what's at stake."
"Well, think about it!" Sheppard specifying for Weir. "This is essentially our idea. We created the retrovirus in order to do exactly what they're proposing we do. What's the down side? I mean, other than the fact that we'd be working with the Wraith?"
"Isn't that enough?" Protested Caldwell as he was not pleased at the thought of working with them.
"It would mean at least something good came of our experiment with Michael." Beckett commented as he remembered what happened last time.
"I'm not sure we have a choice." Agonized Teyla as the Wraith had all the power right now. "It appears they have kept our existence a secret, but if we do not help ..."
"There is that." Said Weir shuttering the thought at another siege to Atlantis. "Carson, I know you've been working on weaponizing the retrovirus; how close are you?"
"We're close." Answered Beckett as he felt he was getting there. "It still needs work, but we're close."
Alton join the Conversation "If you want I can request Doctor Collins to come here and help you?"
Beckett smiled. "Yes, that would be very helpful considering she assisted us in our work." Beckett replied, but then became concern. "If she's not busy, I would hate to have dragged her away from something important."
"Not a problem Doctor." Alton reassuring Beckett. "Doctor Collins was actually waiting for us to call her and begin work on the retro virus."
Dare then turned to Weir. "I also like to request Doctor Crane to come as well." Alton turning to Dare understood why she wanted hm here. "If there is a chance for any studying a Hive ship, I want Crane to participate in this as well."
Weir thought for a moment and turned to Rodney. "Rodney you don't mind sharing the spotlight for a change?" Weir pondered at her head scientist considering his huge ego.
Rodney looked up from his computer and smiled. "Look I am not a competitor."
Everyone had puzzled looks on their faces in the room. "Since when?" Sheppard sarcastically asking.
Rodney gives him a stoic look on his face. "Doctor Crane will be most welcome by me, we have been working together and I find him to be somewhat capable scientist like myself." Expressed Rodney as his ego came out once again.
Elizabeth looks at Ronon. Following her gaze, everyone else turns to look at him.
"What?" asked Ronon surprised to see everyone looking at him.
"What do you think?" Weir asked expecting some resistance to the idea.
"Let's do it" Ronon said with no hesitation at all in his voice, surprising everyone..
Weir was taken back by Ronon's answer. "Really?" Weir asked surprised to hear Ronon agreeing to the idea.
"Sheppard said it himself 'it's our idea.'" Ronon gesturing with his hand points to Sheppard.
"I just thought you of all people ..." began Weir as she remembered his resistance to the idea of the retro virus.
"Hey, if they want our help killing other Wraith, it's one kind of help I'm happy to provide." Ronon proclaiming the only reason for accepting.
"OK." Said Weir as she looks around the room at everyone. "I'll accept the offer."
Everyone begins getting up from their chairs and walks out of the room.
Atlantis
Weir's Office
In Weir's office, Alton and Dare sat in the two seats in front of Weir's desk, while Weir herself sat at behind her desk, while Colonel Caldwell stood at the side leaning against the wall.
Alton and Dare were there wondering about the conversation they had back in the conference room. Something Weir was hoping to avoid, but couldn't any longer and so began the explanation of Asgard beaming technology, which Dare flustered.
"Your telling us now, that you possessed teleportation technology?" Dare seethed in anger at them concealing this technology.
"We call it beaming." Said Caldwell not backing down from Dare's angry tone of voice. "Also, it's not our technology, we acquired it from one of our allies the Asgard."
"Asgard?" Alton asked confused by the name. "Are they Human like us?"
Weir shook her head. "No, their very much Alien." Said Weir seeing the looks on Dare and Alton's faces. "Which is why we didn't bring it up, because we knew how you felt about non-humans."
Alton understood the need to protecting their allies, considering how much the Covenant has done to them, the UNSC are now more cautious of Aliens then ever before after surviving the war.
"As long as there not hell bent on Humanities extinction we won't have a problem." Alton placating Weir and Caldwell's concerns.
"That's good to hear, because we have one of them on board the Daedalus." Weir surprising them of this news which caught Alton and Dare off guard for once. "His name is Hermiod, he is here because the Hyperdrive we use was a gift from the Asgard, so our people can make intergalactic trips from our Galaxy to Pegasus."
Alton saw this as a good opportunity. "When all this is over I would like to meet this Asgard." Alton suggested surprising Weir, but also being suspicious of Alton's motives behind them.
"I'm glad to hear that." Said Weir with a smile. "If that is all I suggest we get back to work."
Alton then raised his hand to stop Weir from leaving her chair. "I first would like to go over some ideas Dare, and I have about this Alliance your forming with the Wraith." Alton insisted.
Weir and Caldwell looked at each other surprised to hear this and back at Alton and Dare. "What do you have?"
Dare went first. "While you're keeping the Wraith occupied, I recommend planting explosives around the Hive ship." Dare said with a stern voice.
Weir was shocked that they wanted to take that much of an initiative. "We can't risk it." Weir protested as the concern for Atlantis was her top priority.
"I agree with Weir on this matter its too big of a risk." Caldwell siding with Weir on the idea.
"We know Hive ships can't detect the Titus." Dare commenting on her ship as undetectable. "All we need to do is fly around the Hive and plant Hornet mines on the ship."
"Hornet mines?" Caldwell asked not knowing the type of weapon they were using.
"They are stealthy, plutonium-cored, nuclear devices with a nominal yield of 30 megatons." Dare explained as she leans back in the chair with her right leg over her left. "Probably end up destroying the whole ship in the process."
"How many do you have in stock?" Caldwell asked seeking an amount he can work with.
"Enough to cover the ship." Dare said avoiding the amount they possess.
Caldwell shakes his head. "I don't think it will be enough to deal with the Hive." Caldwell in doubt about the mines capabilities. "Not to mention we don't know if they have any kind of detection systems if something suddenly lands on the Hive ship."
Alton nodded his head in agreeing with Caldwell. "I'll have to agree with Caldwell on this one, Captain.." Alton professing his opinion on the matter. "Continue monitoring the Hive up close."
Dare was reluctant, but decided to concede for now." Understood Captain." Dare lamented as she straightens up in the chair.
"Will just need for you to remain in the system in the worst-case scenario." Weir commented. "Hopefully nothing will happen."
Alton leaned forward in his chair. "Still all this seems surprising to me." Alton questioning the Wraiths intentions, which made Weir confused.
"What do you mean?" asked Weir.
"You 've told me that the Wraith are desperate about finding a new feeding ground considering the human populations here cannot sustain them." Alton summarizing the report Weir made to him, Weir nodded her head. "I think extra precaution on anything that they might provide us in this deal should be considered."
Weir nodded her head. "I agree with you on this matter and we have taken the necessary measure to ensure the security of everyone here."
Alton on the other hand felt something was off, his 30 years' experience in war was tingling in the back of his mind. "I feel the need to tell you something in our own experience Doctor Weir." Agonized Alton as he explains about an incident with the Covenant attempting to learn the location of their home world using the insurrectionists, by providing them with Covenant weaponry tagging them with homing beacons, hoping it would be circulated around the many organizations that were rebelling against the UNSC and finding its way back to their planet.
Weir took this information in and processed it. "Thank you for telling me this, I intend to make good use of this." Weir promised as she gets up to prepare.
Lantea
Orbit
UNSC
Titus
Bridge
On the bridge of the Titus, Captain Dare returned to her ship, after Weir allowed one of her pilots to take a puddle jumper and travel to the other side of the planet where her ship was out of the Hive sensors range.
Once aboard she plotted back to where the Hive was to continue monitoring the ship. After sometime the Hive launched what appeared to be a ship, its size was a little bit bigger than a Wraith dart, which suggested to Dare an envoy form the Wraith was heading to Atlantis to begin their meeting.
"Captain Alton, its Dare." Dare got on her radio to alert Alton. "They're heading your way."
Atlantis
Control Room
Alton was standing next to Weir monitoring the ship as it approaches Atlantis. "We see it Dare, thank you." Said Alton as he walks over to the side where he looked down from the control room. "You're up Colonel."
Colonel Lang and her team were already geared up and ready to deal with the Wraith. "Understood Captain." She then signaled her team to move out and was accompanied by Atlantis own military personnel.
"Major Faison are you and your team in position?" Alton asked as he looks around the gate room.
"I have a Spartan near the pier where the ship is landing with a sniper." Explained Faison as he reports where his Spartans are at. "I have two others along the paths Atlantis military personnel wants to take the Wraith too, and as for me, I'm lying in wait for these Wraith to try something."
"Stand by, we don't want to cause an incident." Beckoned Alton as he doesn't want his people to jump the gun due to their xenophobic towards Aliens.
"Still think me and my Spartans should have escorted the Wraiths ourselves." Faison proclaimed as intimidation tactic as he and his Spartans were very imposing in their Mjolnir GEN II armor.
"The last thing we need is for the Wraith to take extra precautions, especially if there up to something." Replied Alton not ready to reveal the Spartans to the Wraith just yet.
As the conversation died down, the ship landed and so began the long wait for the Wraith to arrive at Stargate operations. After awhile they arrived in tow was Michael the first Wraith experimented on by the Retro Virus, another male Wraith and last but worst of all a Queen.
Alton clenched his fists at seeing a Wraith, his anger towards aliens was strong as any other hardened veteran of the Covenant war. "So, it begins." Bellowed Alton as he walks away from the control room.
Daedalus
Engine Room
In the engine room on board the Daedalus, McKay, Hermiod, and Doctor Crane were working on the data the Wraith sent to Atlantis. Crane arrived after the first meeting on Atlantis with Doctor Collins at the request of Alton, once arrived he was told everything that had transpired was shocked to learn many things, but was excited also as well.
As soon as Crane arrived he was the first UNSC affiliate to be beamed up to the Daedalus and was the first to be on one of their ships. Crane was also the first to meet an Asgard, while many in the UNSC harbor anger towards aliens, Crane was the opposite as he was excited to meet a friendly alien, although Hermiod was annoyed at Cranes constant bombardment of questions none the less he answered as best as he could.
Currently all three were working at their individual stations. Crane was obviously monitored be a security detail incase he tried something, Crane expected nothing less considering they would have done the same thing.
"So, this jamming codes are what prevents you form getting a lock on their ships to deliver nuclear weapons on board?" Probed Crane for information and while he was looking at the Wraith data on a laptop provided by the expedition.
"Mm-hm." Muttered McKay while not looking away from his computer. "If we can crack this code will be able to nuke any Hive that comes our way."
As the two continue working McKay was still amazed at the information. "Huh, some pretty interesting stuff, eh? I think I've learned more about Wraith technology in the last hour than I have in the past two years." Reported McKay as he continues working.
"I've been here for 11 months now and I've barely scratched the surface of their technology." Conferred Crane as he continues typing. "This is amazing."
While the two work well together in unlocking the information, Hermiod was at his terminal shaking his head not very impressed with any of it himself.
Atlantis
Lab
In a lab on Atlantis, Doctors Beckett, Zelenka, and Collins were working with one of the male Wraith scientists, to learn more about the Retro Virus. Beckett was explaining the best method of delivery on to enemy Hive ships. Things so far were going smoothly as smoothly as they can be when working with the Wraith.
Atlantis
Balcony
On the balcony that over looked a part of the city, Alton was there conversing with Dare on the radio. "Everything so far is going smoothly." Alton affirmed reluctantly at the thought. "Right now, there moving into the next phase of the plan and determining how long the virus in gas form will take to turn a Wraith into a Human."
"They'll then want to test it out on an enemy Hive ship." Commented Dare as she began thinking ahead.
"My thoughts exactly." Said Alton two minds thinking alike. "We need to prepare for anything that might happen."
"You want me to follow them at the designated area?" asked Dare as she makes a plan on the event.
Alton thinks for a moment. "Negative stand by for the moment until further orders." Alton turned off his radio and sighed heavily, as things were moving along faster than he liked.
UNSC
Praeter
Bridge
On board the bridge Alton was sitting in his chair, apparently the Queen wanted to test out the virus on an enemy Hive ship and departed along with Daedalus to observe. Alton took advantage at this time to return to his ship along with McKay, Crane, and Hermiod who were still working on the jamming codes.
Everyone on board the ship were ordered to restrain themselves when seeing Hermiod, many were expecting an alien, but not one that looked so frail to them compared to the other Covenant species they fought in the war, so it wasn't that difficult to relax.
Alton at the time was able to meet the Asgard and request to meet his leadership to negotiate an Alliance. Hermiod was willing to send the request to his leaders, but it would be up to them to meet Alton or not. Alton only needed to send the message for him to be satisfied.
On the bridge Alton was conversing with Yelena on the jamming codes. Alton figured if any one can help them it was her.
"Is it clean?" Alton asked as he order Yelena to check the data.
Yelena nodded her head. "Nothing out of the ordinary, but I must say, I've seen better information in a Covenant citizen terminal than what the Wraith sent us." Yelena mused at the data she was seeing.
"Say what you want Yelena, but I want to make sure this information is clean." Alton necessitated aggressively as he didn't want anything he brought on board to be dangerous to his ship or crew. "How is it going with your assistance on this code?"
Yelena crossed her arms. "Honestly I'm surprised Crane didn't requested me sooner." Yelena remarked with confidence in her voice. "Thanks to captured Wraith technology, I was able to make quick work of the jamming codes."
Alton nodded his head. "Good work." Said Alton praising Yelena. "On another note, can you replicate this technology for our use?"
Yelena looked at Alton with a mischievous smile. "Captain, you sneaky man you." Said Yelena giggling. "Taking adequate steps to ensure our protection?"
Alton straightened himself out and smiled. "Just looking ahead at our future." Replied Alton as he walks away from the conversation.
Atlantis
Control Room
The Hive ship along with Daedalus returned from the mission and it didn't go according to plan as they would have liked.
"Our delegation was searched." The Wraith Queen growled on the screen. "They were killed immediately when your canisters were discovered. Our transport ship tried to escape but it was destroyed. You must devise a better delivery method."
"Or what?" Weir demanded not backing down from the Queen.
"Or we will disclose your location to the other Wraith." The Queen threatened the expedition of exposing them and incurring another siege of Atlantis.
"We kept our part of the bargain." Explained Weir of the deal they made. "We gave you the retrovirus."
The Queen angry at Weir's defiance angrily barked at them. "AND IT IS USELESS WITHOUT AN EFFECTIVE DELIVERY SYSTEM."
"So, we have to do everything?!" questioned Sheppard.
The Queen doesn't reply, though her answer is obvious. Elizabeth and John simultaneously turn to Rodney, who sags wearily and sighs.
McKay in a resigned voice. "OK, OK. I will figure something out." He points at the Queen. "But no more holding back. I want to know everything there is to know about Hive ships: schematics, power distribution, life support configurations, everything you've got."
"Then you shall have it." Said the Queen replying to McKay's request.
Rodney looked startled, as well as everyone else in the room. It made Alton and Dare surprised at well how easy it was, but also made Alton very suspicious .
"For real?" Faltered McKay in disbelief and shock.
The Queen turns her head and nods to someone offscreen on her ship. Moments later, the technician's console beeps.
The technician turned to his computer. "Receiving transmission." Said the technician.
"Make sure it's secure." Demanded Weir.
"Yeah-yeah-yeah, we're completely firewalled." McKay proclaimed as he runs over to the technician's station. "Let me see that."
He shoves the technician out of the way. Sitting on a wheeled chair as he is, Crane joined him peering over McKay's shoulder at the information sent to them. Rodney stares at the computer screen in amazement as information scrolls across it.
"WOW!" McKay blurted out in amazement, he turns to Elizabeth and John. "She actually did it! I mean, this is the motherlode!"
"What is, exactly?" asked Weir.
McKay grins excitedly. "Only everything you've ever wanted to know about Wraith technology but were afraid to ask."
Alton looked at Crane for confirmation and Crane nodded his head smiling as well, this only made Alton even more suspicious.
Elizabeth and John turn back to the video screen.
Weir looks at the queen questing her actions. "Why are you doing this?"
"We have suffered extensive damage." Replied the Queen.
Elizabeth looks at John for a moment, then turns back to the screen. "We could render assistance." Said Weir extending her services. Alton however was questioning Weir's generosity.
The Queen was surprised to hear this "You would do this?"
"We're supposed to have an alliance, aren't we?" asked Weir bringing up the agreement they made. "Sending information on Wraith technology was a remarkable act of good faith on your part."
"Your assistance would be ... acceptable." Remarked the Queen hesitating for a moment.
"Alright, then." Said Weir getting to work. "We have a deal."
The screen turned black signaling the connection cut off by the Queen as everyone scattered, Alton however walked up to Weir. "Don't you find this a bit odd?" questioned Alton trying to get Weir to open her eyes. "She is being very cooperative for a Wraith."
Weir seeing Alton's attitude and questioning the Queen had to interject. "You heard her, her ship has suffered damage." Said Weir. "They sent that information over because their desperate."
"Or their taking advantage of your generosity?" Alton protested which got him a look from Weir.
"I haven't forgotten our discussion, I just feel that offering our assistance is in any alliance I make, is a part of my character especially when the other side showed a sign of trust." Weir said as she walks off to her office ending the conversation.
Alton walks away as well, not changing his opinion, he is soon met up with Dare, the look on her face said it all. "Your scheming something, I can tell." Said Alton knowing Dare so well.
"Can't pass up this opportunity." Dare said presenting Alton with a plan. "If Weir is adamant at helping the Wraith, I recommend we send some of my people to take a look at their Hive ship and gather any intel we can get our hands on."
Alton questioned this plan. "You realized they sent everything we ever needed to know about Wraith technology to us!" Noted Alton at the fact of what happened a couple minutes ago.
Dare shakes her head. "I'm talking about sabotaging their ship under the guise of repairing it." Dare explained further.
Alton thought about it for a moment and couldn't help but be conflicted. On one hand this would be a good opportunity for them, on the other hand if their caught it would break the Alliance. "Do it." Said Alton reaffirming his stance on the issue.
Dare smiled and left to make preparations, while Alton stands at the gate thinking what's next.
Atlantis
Lab
After the Queen sent the information the data was distributed among the Scientists in Atlantis, Crane was also there not passing up an opportunity like this, he was hoping that the UNSC would get a copy of the information, but Weir wanted her won people examining it first before handing it off to them.
Crane was at a computer studying Wraith technology like his life depended on it. After a while Doctor Collins walked into the lab and walked over to Crane. "How's the studying going Crane?" asked Collins in her stoic expression.
Crane turned away from the computer pinching the nose of his bridge. "What time is it?" asked Crane exhausted from studying the Wraith tech.
Collins hands him a cup of coffee she acquired from the mess hall in Atlantis. "Figured you'd lose track of time."
Cranes takes the cup and sips a little, the taste of roasted chestnut coming from the coffee was invigorating to him and surprising. "Glad to see we have the same taste as these people." Said Crane indicating Weir's people. "How's it going with the Retro Virus?"
Collins leans against the desk not happy at all. "While we've made improvements, the problem lies in the maintaining that form without the need of daily injections." Collins reported as she stressed the issue she was facing.
"Sounds complicated." Remarked Crane as he turns back to the computer. "Never could get into medicine to much complexity."
Collins looks at Crane. "I'm surprised your not with Doctor McKay on that Hive Ship making repairs." Commented Collins as she takes a sip of her coffee.
"As fun as that would be, I have everything I need right here to learn about Hive ships." Said Crane as he scrolls down information. "Especially about certain weaknesses we can exploit."
Hive Ship
On board the Hive ship McKay was analyzing the organic nature of the Hive ship, while being accompanied by Ronon and a male Wraith that was escorting them. Along with them was ONI officers masquerading as Atlantis engineers while also being protected by Sergeant Hagman from GR-1 being a hand to hand combatant expert he was assigned to protect the ONI officers.
While McKay was doing his thing, the ONI officers were doing there's, by wearing hidden cameras taking in all the surrounding areas of the Hive. While effecting repairs they began planting small undetectable explosive devices.
UNSC
Praeter
Bridge
On the bridge of the Praeter, Alton, Collins, and Crane returned after a plan had been made to help deliver the retro virus to an enemy Hive ship. The plan entailed the Daedalus merging with the Hive ships scan patterns making them invisible to the enemies' sensors.
Collins and Crane returned to the ship to give a report and to deliver what Weir had promised them, all the information the Wraith sent to Atlantis.
"So, I assume everything is going as plan?" asked Alton as he stand near his chair.
"Well we did devised the plan and it seems full proof." Replied Crane as he sets up the data storage device he was given by Zelenka. "It all depends on them I guess."
Alton turned to Collins. "And the Retro virus?"
"We've done everything we can to prepare it." Said Collins as she cracks her neck. "It will take time for the gas to take affect against enemy Wraiths, but it will get the job done."
As the two finished there conversation, Crane was ready to begin. "Yelena do a scan of the data I'm about to transmit to this station." Said Crane as he begins the process of setting up firewalls from the rest of the ships systems.
As the data files began appearing showing the Wraith information, all was fine until the screen began to flash on and off. "Yelena?" asked Crane confused at what he was seeing, before she could respond the screen went black.
"I detected a virus embedded in the schematic of the data." Yelena appearing on the holographic table. "I managed to purge it, but not before it destroyed the data."
Alton slammed his fists on the table in anger. "I knew this was a set up." Alton said furious as he begins shouting out orders. "Startup the slipspace drive set a course to the meeting." He sits down in his chair and began pressing buttons. "Send a message to Weir warn her what we found."
Lantea System
Space
In space the Praeter moved out of its position near the gas giant like a roaring inferno and activated it slipspace drive opening a portal. As it enters the portal the crew could only hope they make it in time.
Unknown System
Space
UNSC
Titus
Bridge
On board the bridge of Titus, Dare was sitting at her command post, under the order of Alton she decided to get here ahead of time to over look the mission. As her ship was getting closer cloaked from the enemy sensors.
One of her crew reported to her. "Captain, we have the Hive ships on sensors." One of the officer monitoring sensors reported.
Dare had a confused look on her face. "Ships?" asked Dare in bewilderment. "As she gets up from her chair and walks over to the officer. "What do you mean?"
The officer points out on the monitor with his hands. "One is the friendly Hive, the other on is the enemy Hive, both ships are together side by side."
Dare looks at the screen and got to work. "How long before the Daedalus arrives?" She asked as she walks over to her chair and sat in it.
"Not much time remaining." Said another officer. "They'll be here in four minutes."
"Can we send a message to the Praeter?" asked Dare in desperation.
One of the officers shakes his head. "We've tried making contact, but nothings working."
Before she could say another word, a hyperspace window opened and out came the Daedalus, and in that moment the Hives opened up catching the Earth ship by surprise. Everyone on board the Titus were shocked and concerned for the Earth ship, but thankfully it raised it shields to prevent any more damage.
Dare looked to her officer. "Transmit the codes to the bombs." Dare said in an angry tone of voice. "Let's show them what happens when you betray us."
The officer began transmitting, but after a few seconds nothing happened, and she turned and look at her officer "What happened?" Dare demanded to know.
The officer was just as surprised as Dare was. "I don't know!" He said in a frantic tone of voice. "It's possible the Wraith disabled them."
Dare slammed her fists down on the chair. "Dammit." She barked as she begins to think, the Titus was a winter-class light prowler designed to land on planets to drop off black op's teams, not meant to take part in a space battle. But due to the original mission of travelling to another galaxy her prowler was modified to make quick insertion strikes against enemy combatants on planets and to provide support for fighter craft. Its original aerodynamic design was meant for planetary use, but later modified for outer atmospheric maneuvering.
As she was thinking the sensors operated reported, that Daedalus launched fighters, the Hive ships have responded in kind.
That's when Dare made the decision. "Drop cloak and raise shields and charge pulsar lasers and other weapons." Said Dare as she begins taking command. "Let's provide them cover."
Space
Out in space the Hive ships continue sending a barrage of blue plasma fire at the Daedalus, it shields taking the bombardment, while a squad of F-302s fight the incoming darts. In that moment, the Titus dropped its cloak above one of the Hive ships and dropped a hornet mind on top and flew away. In that moment an explosion occurred on the Hive as the hornet mind detonated on the organic hull of the ship. The damage was minimal as a 30-megaton nuke wasn't going to be strong enough to penetrate that Hive, but made the Wraith cautious as more Darts were sent out to intercept this new enemy.
As the Darts began chasing the Titus, it released a red charge of pulsar lasers. This technology existed in the UNSC for a long time, but made modifications after the Covenant war. The lasers spit out from the Titus and using an advance guidance systems each laser hit its mark on the Darts heading to them, but the Wraith darts out number the amount the Titus can shoot down and it began taking fire from the blue pulsar weapons of the Darts.
F-302
In his F-302, Sheppard was piloting fighting off the Darts when the Titus appeared surprising him, but was very thankful for it. "Looks like we got some back up." Sheppard commented in his radio. As he continues fighting the Wraith.
"It won't make much difference considering that nuke of theirs didn't do much damage." Said Caldwell on the radio. "Unless the Praeter is heading this way, I don't think we can hold out much longer."
"Give me two minutes and I can disable their hyperdrives." Sheppard protested as he flies the F-302 into the Hive ship.
"Even if you disable their weapons it makes little difference to our situation." Replied Caldwell as sounds of sparks and alarms blaring in the background could be heard.
"The Titus is getting the attention, which leaves me to what I need to do, Sheppard out." Sheppard not about to let what the Wraith did get away with this, as he takes his 302 further in.
Titus
Bridge
On the bridge of the Titus, sparks went flying as the ship began taking damage. "Shields are down to 56%." Said an officer. "We can't take much more of this."
As Dare held herself in the chair from the continued attacks she began making. "Transfer power from engines to shields and charge up the puls…."
She didn't finish as the sensors officer shouted out. "Hive ships are opening Hyperspace windows."
Which made Dare Surprised to hear that, as she gets up from her seat and looks out the window. The Hives entered hyperspace leaving a confused crew behind.
"What the hell happened?" asked Dare in disbelief as she stands there pondering what all this was about, but one thing was certain, this was far from over.
This was probably the longest chapter I have ever written and it has been my favorite to write. Things are heating up in this story and I hope I will be able to write it, but like I said before I will be taking a break for a really long time. Things in my life I have to take care of first before doing anything else. I thank you all for being great fans and sticking with me and hope you will still be here even if I don't post anything new all next year. Thanks again.