Hey Everyone I jsut wanted to say thanks for sticking with me and I'm happy to get all these chapters out before the semester started and while I wish I could say there are more chapters coming, I'm afraid you won't be getting any new updates for a long time. Now to answer some critics/questions, what took me so long to write these chapters well despite COVID-19 forcing people in their homes, my world does not revolve around making these stories all the time, I do have a life at home and out of my home. Now to answer some critics, when Alton traded resources like Titanium-A and instacrete for Naquadah and Trinium some of you complained that the trade was idiotic on weir's part, but many of you don't realize that some of the technology acquired by the SGC first have to go through the private sector as Alien technology that is given over to corporation is quickly used to develop Human based technology in the field, so Alton giving Titanium-A a stronger version of titanium which is used in construction and instacrete is a material invented by UNSC scientists for use in combat zones. Instacrete is easy to shape and build with, incredibly strong, and dries quickly, allowing strong, permanent buildings to be hastily erected when they are needed. It is primarily used for creating bunkers and defensive walls. But in my opinion this material could also be used in creating homes and prevent the deforestation of the forest for lumber on the construction of homes. This is technology that can be implemented in the human field without going through the private sector saving money on their part. Another thing for me answer is the Praeter being model after the colony ship,but made specifically for war they went with that design because they needed to set up bases on planets, like in Halo Wars. The next thing someone complained about is the Precursors not being able to leave their galaxy when in fact The Precursors were the only known civilization to achieve Tier 0 of the Forerunner Technological Achievement Tier and were one of the two civilizations to exceed the Forerunners in technological advancement. They can theoretically accelerate the evolution of all intelligent life and travel across galaxies. Why does ONI lie cheat and steal from humans, well the way they see it the humans in Pegasus aren't part of their civilization and their looking out for their own interests. Now some have complained about the MAC guns in general would be too slow, to use against other ships in the Stargate universe now I don't know how fast the Mark IV heavy coil guns are but I'm going to assume from everything I have seen in game that they are 1.0% the speed of light.
Now when it comes to size of ships that people have been complaining about since the beginning of my story, I went ahead and looked at what people have been telling me too look at, so I went ahead and checked out Fleetyards BC-304 Daedalus (Stargate) - Fleetyards mission briefings, they never mention the size of the 304 being what people claim, but they did do a 3D models comparison to Star Treks Sovereign-class ships almost the exact same size which are around 685 meters, but according to Spacedocks another video recommended to me, they reaffirm that the BC-304 size is the same size as mentioned in the Stargate wiki, but according to Spacedocks the size of Hive ships are 6750 meters and from the Stargate wiki they claim Hive ships are one of the largest ships known to exist, being roughly thirteen times larger than its main combatant, Earth's 304. So, if we take 6750/13= 519.2307, I will round down to 519 meters. Given all this information it something I will have think on before I make a decision.
Andromeda Galaxy
Terra System
Erde-Tyrene
Orbi
UNSC Infinity
Bridge
July 23, 2556
On the bridge of the most powerful UNSC ship in the history of the UNSC fleet, the Infinity was the most technologically advance ship and soon to be the UNSC's flagship. On the bridge of the Infinity Commander Thomas Lasky assigned as executive officer to Captain Andrew Del Rio was overlooking the crew on the bridge making sure everyone was up to date on their activities to prepare for when they departure in the next couple of months to search for the remaining Halo rings and decommission them for good.
At a holo table that showed readouts and logs of the ship's status, Lasky was looking at information making sure the ship was operating at 100%.
The A.I. temporarily assign to the Infinity appeared on the holo table. "What's the latest to report Aine?" Asked Lasky as an A.I. can give up too date status faster than a human can with better accuracy of the ships systems.
"Those Huragok continue not to document the modifications they're making to the ship, leaving me unaware of what they were doing!" Pointed out Aine of the frustrations she was feeling. "Also, the crew seems to forget I have a role in the ships operations."
As the two banter an alarm went off on the bridge. "Status report!" Ordered Lasky as he changes the holo table.
"Slipspace portal detected 500 klicks away." Reported the sensors officer as he begins bringing up the ping on the holo table.
"IFF?" Asked Lasky wondering if it was friendly contact or not.
"Unknown, but two Autumn class heavy cruisers on intercept course." Replied the officer as he brings up the image. "They're attempting to make contact."
"Open a channel." Ordered Lasky to the communications officer who began pressing buttons on his console.
"Attention unknown contact, identify yourself!" Demanded the Captain of one of the Autumn class heavy cruisers.
After a couple of seconds of tense waiting the unknown contact responded. "This is Captain Alton identification number Alpha-Tango-Delta 078369-00093." Answered Alton on the radio.
Lasky turned to Aine. "Confirm that ID." Ordered Lasky wanting to make sure it was who this person claimed to be.
It didn't take long for Aine to cross reference the ID to her database. "Confirmed, it is Captain Alton of the UNSC Praeter." Declared Aine as she begins running lines of code through her avatar. "Hmmm! Strange."
"What is it?" Asked Lasky wondering what bothered the A.I.
"I can't access anything on the ship or connect with their A.I." Commented Aine of the problem she was facing. "Complete blackout no comm transmissions from anyone other than what we received."
Lasky had his hands on his hips looking out the window. "You only ever go dark if you don't want any information leaks." Replied Lasky knowing UNSC protocols like the back of his hands. "They must have been on high risk mission, that was off the books."
"Whatever they were, Lord Hood, and Admiral Osman are taking over and have ordered all ships to clear the area." Pointed out Aine as UNSC ships began clearing their distance. "Also, couple of UNSC Military Intelligence ships are escorting the Praeter to a Military Intelligence controlled station."
Military Intelligence thought Lasky, a new name changed after the war but still the same old ONI, they had more secrets than a politician running for office. "Whatever is going on it has nothing to do with us." Commented Lasky as he turns back to the crew on the bridge. "Back to work all of you, shows over."
As the crew retuned back to their duties Lasky could only think how a respectable officer like Alton got mixed up with ONI.
Erde-Tyrene
Orbit
ONI Control Station
Griffon
Conference Room
8 hours later
After arriving sooner than predicted by their A.I. Senior staff on board the Praeter were brought to the conference room where they began a long debrief on what had transpired the past year.
Captain Alton, Captain Dare, Major Faison, Doctor Crane, and Doctor Collins was gathered and together to explain what had happen. Lord Hood and Admiral Osman along with their respective aids we're there to listen.
It was a long story and a feeling of failure for not completing their original mission they were sent on but tried to shine a positive light on the discoveries they made and hope they would vindicate them.
Osman slammed her fist on the table, clearly upset. "You inadvertently started a conflict with another alien race, that was not only hostile to humanity, but also dependent on them as a food source." Condemned Osman of the actions taken by the crew of the Praeter. "Not to mention traded UNSC technology and secrets to an unknown group of humans who aren't part of our government and our citizens."
"Now hold on right there Admiral." Interjected Hood not going to allow Osman to continue attacking Alton and his staff. "Captain Alton was given full autonomy and acted accordingly to the situation."
Osman turn to Hood not liking him cuddling his officers. "With all due respect Lord Hood, as soon as Captain Alton realized when they failed their mission should have acted to return back home." Argued Osman on what Alton should have done and not what he did, she then turned to one of her officers. "And Captain Dare why did you not protested?"
Dare fixed her composer and took a deep breath before responding. "With all due respect ma'am, I did voice my protest of staying even after we learned about the Wraith!" Stated Dare remembering what she did last year as she looks at Alton. "But I'm glad we did stay and thanks to Alton's leadership we managed to not only learned about this dangerous enemy, but we made allies."
Osman was taken back by Dare's response. "Well that certainly your opinion, Captain." Responded Osman not pleased by Dare. "But the facts remains..." Osman didn't finish that last sentence as she was interrupted by Hood.
"The fact remains unclear." Interjected Hood cutting off Osman, who gave a look at Hood. "Will need time to look at all your mission reports and until then all of you must remain onboard the Praeter and maintain communications blackout."
"In the meantime, I want the Praeter escorted to the Oortcloud where we will inspect the ship and any and all technology acquired from the Pegasus galaxy." Demanded Osman wanting to get the Peaeter out of the spotlight, so people won't ask questions.
Alton shook his head. "With all due respect, my crew has had a long year without seeing family and friends." Pointed out Alton of the time his crew has spent away from loved ones. "And now you want to continue separating them after returning."
Hood and Osman looked at each other sympathetic to the situation. "Given the information you have brought to us, we can't afford to scare the citizens of the UETG should this get out about the Pegasus galaxy." Declared Hood of the position Alton has put Hood and Osman in. "Our people were terrified of the Covenant; how do you think they would react to the Wraith pratically being right next door to us."
It was no secret that the the Pegasus Dwarf galaxy is a companion of their galaxy. "If I may speak Lord Hood." Intervened Doctor Crane who helped unlock much of the technology in Pegasus. "The Wraith's form of FTL which they call hyperspace and their hyperdrives are ineffective and insufficient, they can't leave their galaxy, not to mention they don't know the location of Erde-Tyrene."
Hood leaned back in his chair and clasp his hands together. "They're were many who thought the Covenant would not find Erde-Tyrene and yet our world was attacked by them." Countered Hood of the day he had to defend his planet against the Covenant armada. "So, I'm not going to assume anything Doctor."
"Lord Hood, I still have people back in Pegasus." Pleaded Alton to Hood. "They're expecting me to notify them of my return back home."
Osman gave Alton a nasty look. "Don't even get me started on you leaving behind people intentionally." Chastised Osman of Alton's choices.
"We brought with us a Stargate that can open a wormhole back to Pegasus that can reconnect with our people." Declared Alton of his intentions to use an alien piece of technology.
Hood and Osman looked at each other and while they were impressed with the technology Alton and his people brought back, they were not going to touch anything until they had other scientists to go over everything for them.
"I'm sorry Alton, but until we have our own people examine and go over everything, the Stargate and everything you have will be confined until further notice." Countered Hood on not wanting to rush in to the unknown until after they had professionals to study what has been acquired. "Until then you and your entire crew will be confined to your ship and head for the Oortcloud."
Alton had a displeased look on his face as he rests back in the chair. "Yes sir." Was all Alton could reply.
Hood nodded his head and stood up from his chair. "Ladies and Gentlemen thank you for your service." Complimented Hood on the work they have done.
Hood along with Osman walk out of the conference room along with their aids leaving the senior staff of the Praeter alone.
"This is bull shit." Cursed Faison letting go of his composure and acting insubordinately. "How can Lord Hood agree to this."
"He makes a fair point." Debated Dare giving her point of view. "The citizens of the UETG can finally breath, with no longer in fear of hostile aliens coming for them."
"The Covenant were a technologically superior enemy." Pointed out Crane of the massive gap between the hostile alien empire and humanity. "The Wraith are not technologically advance, even their ships would not stand a chance against our super macs."
Alton sighed heavily. "Will have to wait for them to go over everything we've accumulated the past year and give us their final conclusion." Explained Alton of the situation they were in. "I just hope Colonel Lang is alright."
Pegasus Galaxy
Ulnar System
M37-469
Ignis Base
Barracks
In the barracks Colonel Lang was in the fight of her life as she stares down her opponents. "You think you have me beat don't you." Goaded Lang at the three around her. "I faced down tougher opponents then the 3 of you right here."
"Then show us what you have Colonel!" Demanded Hagman as he stares down his superior officer.
The Colonel laid down her cards. "Straight flush." Pointed out Lang as she showed her cards.
"Damn it." Complained Hagman as he places his cards faced down.
Cheng and Williams followed as they placed their cards down. "Good game Colonel." Complimented Cheng to his commanding officer.
"Cheng don't admit defeat." Ordered Lang to her second in command. "Next time try and beat me if you want to win."
Cheng nodded his head. "I'll keep that in mind on the next game." Replied Cheng as he takes a sip of alcohol. "Still this is what has come too huh!"
"Until we hear back from Captain Alton, it will be like this." Commented Williams as she begins shuffling the deck of cards. "All gate operations suspended until he returns."
Hagman shakes his head. "Still life sucking aliens to kill out there." Prattled Hagman as he pours himself a drink and takes another shot. "Just itching to fire my battle rifle at their hand."
"Quit complaining Sergeant and play some cards." Ordered Lang and as Williams was about to pass out the cards, alarms went off notifying them of the gate activating. "Well shit, game over for now guys."
"Unscheduled off world activation." Reported over the intercom by the gate technicians manning the controls. "Colonel Lang report to the gate control room."
"Yeah, Yeah, I'll be right there." Lang upset about quitting the game. "I already know who it's going to be."
Ignis Base
Gate Control Room
Lang walked into the gate control room, the Stargate already active and video and audio transmission of Dr. Weir was being presented on the screens. "Checking up on us as usual Dr. Weir!" Pointed out Lang of the weekly dial in's by Weir.
"I made a promise to your Captain that I would check in from time to time." Replied Weir of keeping her word to Lang's Captain. "Not about to break it now."
"As you can see were still here." Commented Lang of their continuing to not use the gate as long as Alton was gone. "What's the latest on the Wraith activity in the galaxy?"
As long as Lang and her people couldn't use the Stargate, they weren't gathering intel on the Wraith and had to rely on Atlantis for all information.
"Culling's are still happening all over the galaxy." Remarked Weir of what her people have been hearing lately. "Were still keeping a look out for the transport ship that escaped the Hive ship before they made their attempt at Earth."
Lang nodded her head. "Copy that." Replied Lang keeping a mental note of what was said. "Same time as next week!"
Just as Lang was about to leave, Weir stopped her. "Colonel any word from Captain Alton or any of the senior staff from the Praeter?" Asked Weir wondering if communications have been established.
"Negative." Replied Lang with a sorrowful look on her face. "It's possible they haven't gotten their yet, or politics are getting in the way considering everything they must explain about what happened last year they may face some opposition."
Weir nodded her head in understanding. "I can relate." Responded Weir of being a diplomat for so many years, she faces many opposing viewpoints from different world leaders. "Hopefully they'll put that aside and make contact soon."
"We can only hope Doctor." Replied Lang as both women say their goodbyes and end transmissions.
Andromeda Galaxy
Terra System
Erde-Tyrene
HIGHCOM
Facility Bravo-6
2 Weeks later
HIGHCOM Facility Bravo-6 nicknamed the Hive, which now became ironic after they went over all the information brought to them by Alton and his senior staff, is a United Nations Space Command military base and its formal headquarters. The building was roughly conical in structure and on the outside, it was surrounded in security gates and other defenses, while on the inside the entrance way bore an atrium. Below the HIGHCOM Bravo-6 Facility is another massive facility. It is three kilometers below the surface and reinforced with massive blast plating, anti-EMP armor and three kilometers of solid rock. The UNSC Security Committee met here.
After 2 long weeks of Military Intelligence and UNSC scientists going over all the information Alton and his people provided were now debriefing on their findings to the Committee.
Commander Amanda Yukiama 20 years working in former ONI now UNSC Military Intelligence in section one Military Intelligence was explaining to the committee on the native populations of the Pegasus galaxy, the human populations and the Wraith and how the Wraith evolved from a bug called the Iratus bug after feeding off the human populations for probably 1000s of years. She brought up images of the Wraith and their Hive ships along with their cruisers as well as images of their darts. Yukiama also brought up images of Atlantis, Weir and her people explaining on who they are and under speculation where they came from.
Doctor Henry Glassman scientist in the UNSC explaining some of the technology recovered by Alton and his crew. Glassman examined all the information Doctor Crane written in his notes as well as showing some of the technology they brought with them specifically the Stargate showing images of it inactive and a video of it when it activates creating a stable wormhole to another gate.
As soon as both were finished giving their presentations the lights in the room came on slowly allowing for the Committee members in the rooms eyes to adjust gently to the bright lights.
"Thank you two for debriefing us on this information." Remarked Hood at the two for explaining everything thoroughly. "I know it must have been difficult crunching a years' worth of information in 2 weeks."
Yukiama shook her head. "Not at all sir." Replied Yukiama being modest. "It was fascinating read almost seem science fiction."
"I like to thank this committee for choosing me to examine all this information and technology." Replied Glassman very grateful to be the first to look at technology from another galaxy not affiliated with Forerunner or Covenant. "It was quite fascinating."
Hood gestures his hand towards the door. "If we need any more explanation, we will contact you." Commented Hood as the two got the hint and began walking out of the room. "Now then Ladies and Gentlemen where do we go from here?"
There was an awkward silence in the room as many didn't know how to proceed with this information. Osman who is known for her "in-your-face" way of answering people stood up from her chair to get everyone's attention. "It's quite clear to me is that despite what we may or may not gain from returning to Pegasus, the threat that resides there is too great to be ignored." Stressed Osman using fear of another alien attack to scare the men and women in the room. "And despite what was explained to us, the Wraith maybe technologically inferior to us, but remember we were technologically inferior to the Covenant and still managed to win some battles and eventually pushed the Covenant back, we should not forget our past or we will be doomed to repeat it."
As soon as Osman sat back down, Hood took the reins. "Thank you, Admiral for the fair if disturbing point of view." Mocked Hood for comparing their situation in the Covenant war to the possible attack from the Wraith. "There is no doubt here that there will always be possible dangers or threats we encounter, but when we do encounter them, do we hide and forget about it, or do we face the challenges head on, but this time we won't be alone, Doctor Weir and her people have proven to be outstanding allies against the Wraith and to continue this progress we have made with them we must return to Pegasus."
After Osman and Hood made their opening statements the committee began whispering amongst themselves dancing on who to side with. Many didn't want to be on the receiving end of either of the two most powerful people in the UNSC. And while both had made valuable arguments ultimately it would come down to a vote on whether to proceed with continued operations in Pegasus or turn a blind eye on that dwarf galaxy.
"So, let us vote on this issue." Ordered Hood looking at the men and women in the room. "All in favor?"
There was tense hesitation as everyone began looking at each other before making a decision.
Andromeda Galaxy
Khaphrae System
Space
In the open vast darkness of space, 6 Slipspace portals opened and out came the UNSC Praeter along with two Autumn class Heavy cruisers and threeStrident-class heavy frigate. The Praeter and her crew released from total communications black out by Hood to head for Installation 03 to setup the Stargate there.
UNSC Praeter
Bridge
On the bridge of the Prater Alton took his place in the Captain's chair with a big smile on his face. "Lieutenant our heading?" Asked Alton to his officer.
"About 100 kilcks away from Ivanoff Research station." Reported the officer.
Alton got up from his chair and headed over to the holo table. "As soon as were in range open up a channel." Ordered Alton as he stood in front of the table. "Doctor if you will!"
Doctor Crane turned around to face Alton. "Captain, I'm finally happy to be doing this." Commented Crane as he brings up an image of Installation 03.
"You and me both Doctor." Replied Alton as he examines the Halo. "I assume you know how to do this?"
Crane nodded his head. "It was something I was working on back in Pegasus ever since we encountered the Stargate and learned everything about them from the Atlantis expedition." Remarked Crane of the time he put into doing this. "Knowing about the Halos in advance really helped my research."
"So, I take it you can make this work?" Questioned Alton wanting to make sure all of this was for nothing.
Yelena then made an appearance on the holo table. "If it doesn't work, we can always get a new scientist to make it work!" Jested Yelena in her usual humorous tone.
Crane just grin ignoring the gab made by Yelena. "You won't annoy me today Yelena, I'm too excited." Smirked Crane as he brings up an image on the holotable. "Now it's unknown if all the power rooms are like the ones discovered on Installation 04 featured a large vertical core and a dome-shaped roof, with large glass windows which run down the side. The energy which powers the Installation can be seen pulsating up through the core and then back down through the windows."
The holo tables image changed to show what Crane was talking about. "Please tell me we don't have to take the Stargate all the way down there?" Asked Alton not liking that idea.
Crane shook his head. "No thankfully we can tap into 03s power room from the surface." Pointed out Crane as he brings up an image of the area, they needed to be at on the Halo was an open field with no cover for the base they needed to build. "I know its not strategically safe like what we built back in Pegasus, but it's the best place."
Alton didn't like it and while they didn't have to worry about the Covenant empire anymore, there were still factions that were formed from the power vacuum left behind by the empire. Thankfully if this does work like Crane suggested, the UNSC will have military presence here beside a research station and scientists.
"Take whatever you need Doctor, will be arriving shortly to the installation." Ordered Alton as he walks away from the holotable and back to his chair. "We are going to be here awhile."
"Understood Captain." Replied Crane as he heads off to his lab and then the hangar to catch a ride down to the surface of the ring.
Installation 03
sky
In the skies of Installation 03 were serene and quiet for the last 100,000 until the arrival of humanity. And on this day a squadron of Pelicans flew down from the hangars of the Praeter carrying with them equipment along with a strident class heavy frigate carrying with it construction materials to build the base.
Installation 03
Surface
Gamma Base
Gate Control Room
One week Later
After a week of operations in not only constructing a base, but also tapping into the main power of the installation, Gamma base was finally operational. Named after the designation the UNSC gave to Installation 03 it was built on.
Today was an important day to the UNSC as it was the day for them to activate the Stargate, Lord Hood and Admiral Osman along with some members of the Committee was there to see this Stargate in action for themselves.
Crane was at the controls working on the computers connected to the DHD after he installed the special control crystal that will allow them to dial outside of the galaxy. The base was not installed by with A.I. despite Osman's reservations on having one, it was deemed unnecessary to place the UNSC's most valuable assets on a bases this remote.
"Doctor Crane." Said Alton getting the good doctor's attention. "Any day now would be appreciated!"
Doctor Crane nodded his head. "Just crossing some x's and y's sir." Commented Crane as he types that last thing. "Want to make sure the power flow to the gate is a smooth transition."
Off to the side Captain Dare and Major Faison was standing by at the door watching and waiting for the gate to come to life. Faison jabs Dare on the shoulder to get her attention. "Look at this a mini ring on a bigger ring." Commented Faison chuckling at the irony. Dare not seeing the humor only gave an awkward smile at Faison's terrible joke.
As Crane continued to type Alton looks at the crowd gathered around to see the Stargate in action for the first time and smiled awkwardly at Lord Hood who was giving him a stoic expression a look that says don't screw this up for both of us.
But just as Alton was about to check on Crane the gate begins to dial its blue inner ring and blue chevrons begin lighting up with each address being punched into it. After the eight address was imputed and locked the gate activated causing the people in the room who never seen the gate up close stood back as the geyser like effect came to life.
"We have a successful outgoing wormhole." Yelled out Crane in excitement.
Alton regain his composer and activated his radio, while screens began to lower down from the ceiling so everyone could see the connection being made.
"Colonel Lang this is Captain Alton authentication number Alpha-Tango-Delta 078369-00093, please respond." Declared Alton trying to establish communications, but static was all that could be heard. "Ignis base please respond."
There were many whispers amongst the crowd as they began to wonder if Lang was still alive or if they have been attacked, but just as Alton and Hood were looking bad the screens lowered from the ceiling received an image. "Captain Alton it's good to hear from you." Replied Lang from the monitors and the radio. "I never doubted you wouldn't make it back to our galaxy for a second sir."
Alton had a big smile on his face. "And I never doubted your leadership to keep out people safe until I made contact." Replied Alton as he sees Lang for the first time in 2 months. "How's are home away from home?"
"Everything is fine here sir!" Replied Lang giving Alton reassurance. "The Wraith are still active and continuing culling planets from the intel Atlantis has provided."
Lord Hood stepped forward. "Colonel Lang." Said Hood getting Lang's attention. "I wanted to thank you and the people at that base for volunteering to stay behind."
Lang seeing Lord Hood stood at attention and saluted the highest ranking official in the UNSC. "Lord Hood it's an honor sir." Blurted out Lang.
"At ease." Ordered Hood wanting Lang to relax, as it was not needed for her to salute Hood from another galaxy. "Just wanted to get your insight Colonel!"
Lang looked puzzled. "Into what sir?" Asked Lang.
"Is there any reason for the UNSC to continue any sort of operations in the Pegasus galaxy?" Inquired Hood seeking another's opinion on this issue.
Lang took a deep breath. "Given what I've seen and the people we've met, I strongly believe we should maintain a presence here in Pegasus." Urged Lang for the UNSC to come back to Pegasus. "Despite the Wraith presence, I believe we can continue to work in this galaxy."
Hood turned to the rest of the committee as each member began to think about it. "That will be all Colonel." Replied Hood. "I thank you for your service."
Alton then stood back in view. "Colonel I hope you can hang on being there for a bit longer, until we can get ready." Implored Alton hoping Lang can keep things together until he returns. "In the meantime, were sending you supplies."
Men and women began pushing crates through the gate on wheels delivering food and medicine as well as ammo and weapons to maintain the base of operations
"Thank you, sir, that's much appreciated." Replied Lang happy her Captain is thinking of her and the rest of the people on the base. "Will put it too good use."
Alton tilted his head in confusion. "Is there a problem Colonel?" Asked Alton wondering what use she would put the supplies too.
Lang then had an awkward smile. "Something recently has come up Admiral." Claimed Lang as she begins typing away. "I need to go."
Alton had a worried look on his face, but decided to trust Lang. "Will attempt communications again at 0900 tomorrow morning." Ordered Alton notifying Lang of the time to prepare to make contact. "Be safe Colonel."
"No promises." Replied Lang as she ends communications.
Alton then nodded his head at Crane to disengage the Stargate. Crane types away at the computer and the gate deactivates. Alton then turns around to face Hood and the Committee. "Well what do you say?"
Pegasus Galaxy
Ulnar System
M37-469
Ignis Base
Conference Room
Colonel Lang walked into the conference room after speaking with Captain Alton, this brought high morale in the base knowing their Captain made it back home and established a connection with the UNSC using the Stargate.
"Sorry about that Colonel." Said Lang being apologetic. "Just made contact with Captain Alton."
Colonel Sheppard sneezes and coughs before responding. "That's good news." Replied Sheppard as he blows into a tissue. "How is Captain Alton?"
"He's good, can't say the same for you!" Pointed out Lang of Sheppard's pile of tissues on the table.
"Sorry." Apologized Sheppard as he grabs the handful of used tissues looking around for a trash can, only for Cheng to hold one up for him allowing Sheppard to throw away the tissues. "Thank you!"
Cheng placed the trash can next to Sheppard for his continued use. "Now back to why you're here." Declared Lang focusing back on their current situation. "You said Atlantis has been taken over?"
"By this guy named Lucius." Sheppard cringed mentioning the man's name. "Somehow he's made everybody on Atlantis like him."
"Using some kind of vial filled with liquid?" Asked Lang recalling Sheppard's story.
Sheppard nodded his head. "McKay was working on studying what was in the vial, but needed more of the stuff, so I went back to Lucius homworld to acquire some and saw many of his people falling ill getting sick from not being around him." Fretted Sheppard at the thought his own people might end up that way. "When I got back, Lucius got to McKay and some of my team went to a known Wraith outpost on M6H-491."
Lang looked at Cheng worried about this development. "Williams is looking over all the information Dr. McKay was working on before he became smitten with this guy as well as the sample of liquid you brought back." Remarked Lang of assisting Sheppard. "However, Williams only has small medical knowledge, she isn't Doctor Collins."
"That's why I came here." Stressed Sheppard of the need for help. "I need help from people I can trust and the ones with technology and equipment to stop this guy."
Before Lang can respond, Williams came on the radio. "Colonel Lang can you come down to the Research lab with Colonel Sheppard, I believe I have something." Requested Williams.
"Roger that, Williams." Responded Lang as she gestures for Sheppard to follow. "Come on Williams has something."
Andromeda Galaxy
Khaphrae System
UNSC Praeter
Conference Room
After the show on Gamma base that the Stargate can open a wormhole back to Pegasus thanks to the Halo providing the power needed and Lang giving her support to continue maintaining a UNSC presence in Pegasus a meeting was taking place on board the Praeter to discuss this.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I hope that this demonstration will give the support needed to return to Pegasus and continue our operations there." Urged Alton to the committee members.
Many of the members looked to one another thinking on the issue. "There is still the matter of you not completing your original mission Captain." Pointed out Osman of Alton's failure at investigating the origin of the Flood.
Alton fixed his composer. "The original mission was to investigate Path Kethona where we believe the origin of the flood is located." Explained Alton of what he was supposed to do. "The failure of that mission is on me despite what the evidence Yelena provided us; however, I like to point out that this failure led us into contact with Dr. Weir and her people."
This made many amongst the committee feel uncomfortable to discuss as the discovery of another branch of humanity in Pegasus was one thing, but according to Dr. Weir her and her people are also from another galaxy.
Osman however was not impressed nor pleased. "Despite what her and her people have done for you, I am incline it was all for their benefit." Remarked Osman on how they strongly pursued relations with Alton and his people from reading the mission reports. "They not only wanted access to our technology, but your military strength as the Wraith does not condone any human civilization to reach a certain level of advancement that could pose a threat to them, I believe Fasion said it better 'were the only ones who can bring a fight to the Wraith.'"
Alton cleared his throat trying to restrain Osman's constant attempt at opposing him. "It's true their interests were for their benefit; however, I like to point out that we gained as much from them as they did us." Pointed out Alton of the technological exchange they made however insignificant it was. "We can still learn much more from each other that will not only benefit us in the long run but ensure that another alien attack against us will be prevented."
There were many whispers amongst the committee some agreeing with Alton others still questioning his loyalty to the UNSC. "Captain Alton given our history with the insurrection; don't you think if word got out about there being not one but two branches of humanity outside of UNSC and UETG control it would only embolden them further aggression and try to secede from Erde-Tyrene?" Asked a Committee member on the dangers of allowing further involvement with Weir and her people.
Alton couldn't fault the committee member for thinking that way, even after the Covenant war there were still some hold outs by the insurrectionists and even attacks. Venezia an insurrection-controlled world after the great war opened fire on UNSC ships and would escalate to be a hub of black-market trading and long with living together with Covenant species. At some point however it seems as though the Insurrection resurged evidence being the actions of the New Colonial Alliance.
"Even if this information does come out it should also be noted that Dr. Weir and her people are under the supervision of the governments of her world, they are not an independent organization that broke off from their world." Reiterated Alton of who Weir and her people are. "Not to mention the human populations in the Pegasus galaxy are constantly under fear from being culled by the Wraith, most of them don't have a central organized authority to lead them and a military to protect them."
These points of view by Alton only shined a bright light on the UNSC and UETG and that when this information does get leak, they knew section two of Military intelligence responsible for Propaganda and Information could sway the publics opinion in their favor.
"There still the matter of Path Kethona?" Questioned a different committee member. "The flood is still a bigger threat than the Wraith, insurrection, and Covenant combined."
Alton leaned on the table with his hands clasp together. "About that, during my last engagement with the Wraith preventing them from reaching Dr. Weir's homworld we track the flight path that they would have taken and believe Weir's homworld resides in this galaxy." Explained Alton as a hologram of the local group appeared and highlighting Weirs home galaxy, being the second biggest galaxy in the group with Path Kethona as one of the many satellite galaxies around it, this made many whisper around them frantically. "I believe for a successful mission to Path Kethona will require revealing about the flood to Weir and her people."
There were many looks amongst the committee as each one was unsure on how to respond. "You want us to reveal classified material?" Bickered Osman flabbergasted that Alton was willing to go that far. "We haven't even revealed the flood or the Halos to our own citizens!"
"I'm not saying we reveal anything sensitive like the Halo's or the ark." Reiterated Alton stressing on for them to know only certain things. "But if we can establish a base of operations in that galaxy closure to Path Kethona then are chances of success is far greater."
This made many committee members faces light up at the prospect of establishing operations at not one but two galaxies and the idea of creating colonies to extract resources and new technologies to help them, plus the added bonus of ensuring their civilization survives from alien threats or beyond was something to consider at least.
Lord Hood looked at some of the members to his right and then to his left. "We will consider your proposal Captain." Offered Hood for the committee to at least consider his proposal. "Until such time you are ordered to return back to our home system and remain there until such time you are called upon again."
Alton clenched his fists together restraining himself from exploding in front of the committee. "What about the Gamma base and the Stargate?" Asked Alton stressing its purpose.
"Will have people from Ivanoff station maintain the facility and continue communications with Colonel Lang." Declared Hood as he and the members of the committee stood up from their seats. "This is a lot to take in, in one day Captain, I ask that you give us more time."
Alton stood up from his seat and saluted Hood and the committee. "Of course, Lord Hood." Conceded Alton of trying to argue anymore. "I await you and the committee's final decision on this issue."
Hood and the committee saluted back, and each walked out of the conference room leaving Alton alone in the room.
Pegasus Galaxy
Lantean System
Lantea
Night
Atlantis
Gate Room
"Incoming wormhole!" Reported Chuck the gate technician in the gate control room. "Colonel Sheppard's IDC." The Atlantis Stargate shield deactivated allowing Sheppard to walk through the gate unobstructed.
As soon as Sheppard walks through the gate he sees most of the control room empty. "Let me guess Lucius is telling one of his stories again?" Asked Sheppard with a disturbed look on his face.
Chuck got up from his chair and looks down at Sheppard from the control room. "You bet he is." Said Chuck with a big smile elated at the thought. "But I wish I was there instead of being here keeping an eye on the gate."
Sheppard smiled at Chuck. "You know what, why don't you go and enjoy those stories." Implored Sheppard to Chuck to go and listen to Lucius. "I'll watch the gate room."
"Really, thanks Colonel you're the best." Replied Chuck as he runs out of the gate room not realizing the Stargate is still active.
As Sheppard watches Chuck leave, he gets on his radio. "Come on through." Said Sheppard and following on that request Gate Reconnaissance teams 1, 5, 7, and 9 came through the gate weapons raised.
Colonel Lang walks up to Sheppard fully dressed in her ODST armor. "I take it most of Atlantis is preoccupied?" Asked Lang seeing the gate room empty for the first time.
Sheppard nodded his head. "Off listening to more of those ridiculous stories told by Lucius." Sheppard griped at his people for falling for it. "Let's hope that medicine you made will work?"
Williams walks up to Sheppard and Lang showing a small dart in her hand. "It's a serum that effectively neutralizes the chemical in that herb of his returning everyone to normal." Explained Williams of the counter measure she created from the research of Dr. McKay and examining the liquid vial Sheppard brought. "We first tested it out on Lucius people, they made a full recovery."
Sheppard nodded his head liking the sound of that. "That's good to hear." Pointed out Sheppard hope restored to him after his own people turned against him. "So, we hit everyone with these darts?"
Williams turned her head to Lang before responding. "Not enough to go around!" Said Williams feeling regret at their situation. "The size of Atlantis is too big to get all of them."
"So, we need to limit our targets to military personnel along with Weir and Dr. Becket and our main target Lucius." Lang interjecting in the conversation. "Will need to do this quietly and quickly before they realize what's happening."
Sheppard nodded his head. "Alright this way." Gestured Sheppard GR teams 1, 5, and 7 followed Sheppard, while GR-9 remained behind to monitor gate operations.
Atlantis
Mess Hall
In the mess hall Lucius is holding court before several members of the expedition. Closest to him are Weir, Ronon, Beckett, Teyla, and Zelenka. They are just as enraptured by Lucius's tale as the others, laughing and gazing at Lucius in delight. As Lucius continue to weave them a tale of his heroics some military members step out of the mess to use the bathroom, one member in particular Major Evan Loren.
As Soon as he stepped out, he was shot by one of the darts with the serum contained in it which also acts like a tranquilizer knocking him out, if it wasn't for Sergeant Hangman he would have fallen and made a noise. While everyone continued to be exasperated by Lucius's story telling Ronon having years of experience honing his own senses he noticed something was off and went to investigate.
Atlantis
Corridor
Hagman began dragging Loren to a pile of other Atlantis personnel that have been hit with the dart that contained the serum.
"How long before they wake up?" Asked Sheppard worried about his people.
Williams began checking on the people on the ground. "It shouldn't be long before they..." She didn't finish that sentence as she was hit by a red beam knocking her out. This caused Hagman to turn around and get hit as well knocking him to the ground, Sheppard turn to see Ronon running down towards him with a furious rage on his face. Sheppard took the hint and ran from the area as fast as possible.
Ronon soon runs up to the two ODST's on the ground as well as the other members of the expedition team. "This is Ronon were under attack protect Lucius." Ordered Ronon as he runs in the direction Sheppard headed off.
Atlantis
Corridor
Sheppard continues to run in the corridor trying to keep his distance from Ronon. "Guys we have a problem." Yelled Sheppard into his radio. "We've been made."
"Yeah we kind of got that on the radio." Pointed out Lang of them listening into their frequency. "What happened to Williams and Hagman?"
"Ronon got them." Confessed Sheppard of his teammate of shooting two members of Langs team. "Luckily it was on stun."
"How many did you guys manage to give the serum too?" Asked Lang wondering the progress being made.
Before Sheppard responded he heard the sound of Ronon's particle magnum fly passed him barely missing his head. "Only manage to get 6 people!" Panted Sheppard from running and dodging Ronon's attack. "Ronon is now chasing me."
"Where are you?" Asked Lang trying to get a fix on Sheppard's position.
"West pier coming from the mess hall!" Worried Sheppard as Ronon becomes more accurate with his shooting.
"Roger that, heading there now." Replied Lang as Sheppard continues to dodge Ronon, he turns around a corner and walks through a room and hides in it.
Ronon comes around the corner losing Sheppard as he begins to turn around seeing what direction he might have went to, but then notice the many doors around him. He then looks at the ground and smiles as he walks into the room where Sheppard hid.
Atlantis
Supply Room
Ronon walks into the supply room with his particle magnum raised in case Sheppard attacks him. "Come on out Sheppard!" Bellowed Ronon with a grin on his face enjoying the hunt. "I won't hurt you...too much."
"Thanks, buddy I didn't think you were still in there." Called out Sheppard in the dark and causing an echo which makes it difficult for Ronon to pinpoint the location. "I don't want you to hurt me either."
"Then come on out and we can talk this over!" Ronon insisted as he continue to walk around the room. "Your only going to make this worse for yourself."
"Funny I was about to say the same thing." Yelled out Sheppard as he tackles Ronon to the ground causing him to lose his weapon as the two wrestles each other trying to get the upper hand, but Ronon was too strong as he easily out maneuvers Sheppard and restrains him on the ground.
"It's over Sheppard!" Pointed out Ronon with a grin in triumph.
Sheppard struggles, but only stops when he sees the door. "Yeah for you!" Countered Sheppard causing Ronon to look up to see Colonel Lang and Major Cheng with their weapons raised, Lang shooting Ronon with the dartgun hitting him with the serum and Cheng shooting him with a Wraith stunner causing the warrior to fall on the ground.
"Well that takes care of him." Commented Lang as she walks up to Sheppard and helps him up. "With him out of the picture the rest will fall."
"I hope your right now come on we have the rest of Atlantis to save." Stressed Sheppard to get things back to normal.
Three soon walk out to continue undoing the damage Lucius Levin has done and retuning the Atlantis expedition to normal.
Andromeda Galaxy
Terra System
Erde-Tyrene
Orbit
Cole Shipyard
1 Week Later
On board the Cole Shipyard where many UNSC ships dock for repair and refuel, Alton was watching his ship the Praeter being repaired and filled with ordinance he expended during his confrontation with the Wraith in Pegasus as well as resupply of ammunitions, food and medicine.
As Alton was watching this, Osman walked up right next to him and looked out the window at the sight he was seeing. "How did you do it?" Asked Osman wondering what Alton did to get this pushed sooner than later.
Alton turned his head and looked at Osman. "Did what?" Asked Alton feigning ignorance at what he heard.
Osman gave Alton a small smile. "Getting President Ruth Charet to not only side with you, but somehow inform her of everything discovered in Pegasus?" Remarked Osman of Alton being able to pass on this information the UNSC and by extension the Military Intelligence was trying to keep from the politicians. "Apparently she walked into a committee meeting three days after our meeting over Gamma Halo and lamented Hood and the committee for keeping this a secret from her and now she fully supports not only returning to Pegasus but to establish diplomatic relations with Dr. Weir and her people."
Alton shrugged. "I don't have a clue." Claimed Alton continuing to maintain his innocence. "You monitored my entire crew and ship and maintain communications blackout."
Osman took a deep breath and exhaled. "This will be the last time you managed to get something by me Alton." Warned Osman as she stares down the Captain. "Don't think for a second all of this will make a difference and when you do screw up like you did with Dashai I'll be there to throw you in a deep dark hole for the mess you made."
Alton was raging inside, for Osman to bring up Dashai and throw that incident in his face was a low blow even for her, but Alton restrained himself. "And when we succeed, I'll request that you be replaced by someone more competent." Gibed Alton trying to get a reaction out of Osman, but years of training as a Spartan-II candidate and protégé too former commander in chief of ONI Admiral Margaret Orlenda Parangosky, kept her cool under the pressure.
"Good day Captain Alton." Said Osman as she turns around and walks away leaving Alton to himself at the window to view his ship.
Terra System
Darkside of the Moon
UNSC Point of No Return
Osman's Office
The UNSC Point of No Return is a stealth cruiser in the United Nations Space Command's Office of Naval Intelligence. It is one of the most advanced and secret ships ever built by the UNSC. Constructed in parts and then assembled in deep space. It was completely radar-invisible and when the baffled engines ran below 30%, the craft was dark as interstellar space. This ship was the wartime field command and control platform for the UNSC Naval Intelligence units, specifically ONI Section-3. Very few people have ever seen the ship and even fewer have actually been aboard this vessel. The inside of the ship was just as mysterious, with stainless-steel walls brushed to a white reflective shield, as was most of the ship's insides. The floors oddly enough weren't the same white color as the walls, being described as metal grates. It also contained a conference room that acted as a Faraday cage, completely sealed off from the rest of the ship, known as "The Cage" or "Odin's Eye; where meetings of an extremely classified nature could be conducted in absolute secrecy.
In Osman's office, Osman was listening to her aide on the new upgrades being installed onto the Praeter from what they managed to recover from Pegasus. "Dr. Crane along with other scientist made the very first Deuterium Fusion Naquadah Reactor that is able to produce more energy output then the original reactor making it possible for the Praeter to make the journey back to Pegasus without the need of two reactors and still be able to maintain shields and weapons." Explained the aide reading from the data pad.
Osman along with Lord Hood read the report on the study of Naquadah and Trinium rare minerals and metal introduced by Dr. Weir during their first trade agreement. Both have unique properties that would benefit the UNSC in weapons and ship construction.
Osman straighten herself. "And the other thing Captain dare provided us?" Asked Osman seeking an answer to what she acquired in Pegasus.
A hologram appeared showing a 0.65-meter length orange crystal with red, green, and yellow shards mixed in weighing at 6 kg. "According to agent Dare it is a power source created by the Ancients to be used in Atlantis." Said the aide reading off the report.
The Ancients thought Osman, the so-called gate builders and the first evolution of humanity responsible for seeding human life in three galaxies including hers. The thought of that information getting leaked to the public would cause mass hysteria about their whole species was influenced by aliens, something Osman didn't want to get out.
"Do we know what kind of power source it is?" Asked Osman putting the Ancients aside for now and focusing on the now.
The aide shook her head. "The egg heads haven't determined it yet, but they did tell me it is fully charged!" Commented the aide of the scientist's discovery. "It's also putting out more energy than a Covenant super carrier."
This made Osman's eye widen in surprise. "Really?" Said Osman piquing her interest. "Interesting, something to look into extensively, have the boys in the lab to continue their work in figuring this out without plugging it into anything."
The aide nodded her head and walked out of the room, leaving Osman to herself. "Quite the find Dare found for us!" Pointed out BB a "Smart" AI construct built by ONI to accompany the ex-Spartan, at the time Captain Serin Osman on her mission to sow discord throughout the remaining Sangheili population after the Great Schism. His donor was Doctor Graham J. Alban, a neurosurgeon and psychologist who had worked for the SPARTAN-II Program. Doctor Alban considered his actions more reprehensible than that of the actions of Catherine Halsey, as he believed her to be devoid of morality. Later in life, when it became apparent that nobody would put him on trial, he became his own judge and executioner, taking his life in a manner that left his brain intact. At his last request, as presented to ONI in his suicide letter, his brain was recovered and adopted into the 4th generation Smart A.I Program, for an A.I made specifically to help protect the SPARTAN-IIs. Unlike most AIs, both smart and dumb, BB felt that there was no point in masquerading as a human avatar. He considered himself as "pure intellect," choosing to be seen as a (mostly) featureless box. "Maybe you reconsider your stance on Pegasus?"
Osman just huff at BB's suggestion. "Maybe you should use that pure intellect of yours and consider the dangers should the Wraith invade our galaxy?" Proposed Osman at BB's arrogance.
"Unlike most humans I have done my homework and process all the information Captain Alton acquired in Pegasus." Remarked BB as being a step ahead to most humans. "Even if the unlikely event the Wraith managed to get the location of Erde-Tyrene and create the means to reach our galaxy they're technologically inferior to us, our super macs alone can destroy their ships in one shot."
"That maybe the case but according to the information provided by Alton, the Ancients were technologically more advance than we are and loss their war with the Wraith." Pointed out Osman also showing she has done her homework. "They defeated them with overwhelming numbers and if the Wraith invade our galaxy with that same overwhelming force, they could be more than we can handle."
BB took a second to process this information. "You make a fair point, Admiral." Proclaimed BB commending Osman of being prepared to contradict him. "I guess we will call this a draw and wait and see the outcome of our claims."
Osman stood up from her chair and looked out the window the empty coldness of space. "It may be too late by then BB." Responded Osman as she pondered on what lies ahead in the near future.
As you can see things are progressing along the way and some of you are going to complain about Osman, but you have to see her point of view, Osman was concerned about the Wraith invading their galaxy, something she doesn't want happening again another hostile aliens to attack their humanity to extinction. While her hostility towards Alton in trading with another humanity may seem excessive, before the Covenant they were dealing with insurrectionists, humans who want to break off from the UNSC and achieve independence, so when they see a group of humans outisde their government and sphere of influence they are wary of Weir and her people.