USS Shogun - Captain's Log

[Ulrich Bechir]

Stardate 230204

Preparations for our shakedown and starting of our mission progress at a decent pace. I have completed going through the crew manifest, I have met my Executive Officer, and I have met my bridge crew.

My executive officer seems like an excellent choice for the job. She is hard working, dedicated and somewhat excited about this poisting. I am happy to be working with her.

The bridge crew is an excellent mixture of experience and freshness. A bridge operates on that kind of mixture, at least an effective one does in my opinion.





I don’t remember the prep for launch being so overwhelming but I know we’ll get things done. Unfortunately fine tuning, and probably more than a few after launch repairs are going to be necessary.

There are time when I wonder what the sense of this is, for me to be going off like this again… but I feel an uncontrollable pull to be doing this again. This is what I was built for. This is my first, best destiny. And when I see that beautiful lady sitting in space dock, I can’t help to feel that I am taking exactly the path that I should be.




We will make our way to the part of space where those ships have disappeared, we will find a cause, and we will ensure it does not happen again. As ordered.

Bechir Out

[Ulrich Bechir]

Stardate 230207

We have arrived on the edge of the area that the ships disappeared. Unfortunately our shakedown cruise was not without incident. Currently the engineering team is working to repair the problems so we are ready for whatever we encounter. I am... concerned... about certain aspects concerning Civilian Engineer sent by Command. While he definitely knows what he is doing and is proficient on this ship design, he is curt, rude, and less than pleasant in dealing with the crew. I would advise the company that Starfleet contracted to review the programming of that model. At any rate, I cannot deny his proficiency and he is doing well at teaching the other engineers about issues regarding this class of starship.

The entire crew performed admirably despite a somewhat rocky start. I am especially pleased at the hard work of some of the newer officers onboard as this is their first posting, and our Helm officer who somehow dealt with outages and other problems. The entire crew performed well though and should be proud of themselves.

At this point we are ensuring systems are online and ready to begin our investigation into what happened to the SS-Gunvor and the USS Ames. I am hoping that some trace of something will be found despite the Gunvor going missing on 230123 and the Ames disappearing when looking for them on 230130. After a week, the trail could be pretty cold, but we will do the best we can.

Bechir Out.

[Ulrich Bechir]

Stardate 230213.0624

Our telepathic and empathic crew members continue to recover from yesterday's attack. At this point, I can only call what happened an attack although we still are not sure if this is by an individual, a group, or something else entirely different.

We have taken the devices left by the ship that generated the psionic pulse onboard Shogun for study. The hope is that by reverse engineering them we will discover some way to shield ourselves against another onslaught. LT T'Lara is taking point on the scientific aspects of the device, while ENS Savesh will coordinate with T'Lara to see what can reasonably be constructed to protect us from future psionic attacks.

It should be noted that ENS Quigley and Mr. Venture performed admirably together, with ENS Quigley coming up with a way to deactivate the device safely and Mr. Venture carrying it out. It seems that I, and many of the crew, may have misjudged Mr. Venture. While he can be excessively brusque at times, he does seem to have some understanding of the aims and desires of Starfleet. He also does seem to understand that we are caught in a predicament as much as he is.

Despite the debilitating effects of the devices, LT T'Lara mostly managed to hold herself together, although it should be noted that there is a destructive side to her, which this episode seemed to bring out. This will bear watching in the future. While it could be seen as logical that there was 'only' a 1 in 3 chance that her immediate plan could destroy all of us, I am troubled by my repeated orders to her to stand down being ignored. In the end LTCMDR Otsuka was able to isolate T'Lara and calm her. ENS Savesh, while obviously affected by the devices, was able to see that her own mind was compromised and adjust, logically, for the breach. This was a difficult day for everyone involved.

I must also note ENS Marina, a Betazoid crew member who died due to the psionic attack. This should highlight the potential threat we are now facing as a high level of Starfleet and Federation personnel have some aspect of psi gift. The threat is real. We have now embarked on a hunt for the craft that attacked us. It seems highly likely that they are at least somehow involved in the disappearance of the Federation ships in this part of space.

Time will tell.

In Service to the Fleet,

CAPT Ulrich Bechir

[Ulrich Bechir]

Captain's Duty Log, USS Shogun, Stardate 230220.0915

Briefing: Today, I would like to start with background information from events that took place 30 years ago. The Telepathic Underground was a resistance movement founded in 2386 to combat an attempted Devore subjugation. The Devore had superior technology to capture and incapacitate telepaths, rendering their abilities inert. USS Shogun arrived in the area of space where the Telepathic Underground had regrouped, but negotiations to aid them proved hazardous due to their defensive weapons and large numbers of telepaths. When Ensign V’Tal died due to the proximity to the Telepathic Underground members, Starfleet ordered us to leave, an act that the Underground never forgave us for.

Current Mission: USS Shogun has been split into three teams to address challenges faced after an attack by an unknown ship. Team 1, comprised of ENS Savesh and LT T'Lara, successfully created a psi shield to protect telepaths on board but required us to lose our EPS shearing system temporarily. Team 2, led by XO LTCMDR Selina Otsuka and myself, worked on catching up with the unknown ship that was confirmed to have Devore-built warp engines. We were able to locate and keep pace with it using sensor work and skilled flying. Team 3 involved the discovery of a disabled ship with Civilian Doctor Fargus Skytower found floating nearby, who was brought aboard the USS Shogun and reluctantly received treatment from Doctor Austen. It was discovered that Doctor Skytower and I knew each other from 30 years before, during our mission with the Telepathic Underground.

Despite the challenges faced by each team, all members of the USS Shogun worked together seamlessly and demonstrated their expertise in their respective fields. We continue to track the enemy ship, waiting for our new psi shield to be active to protect us from potential attacks.

End log.

[Ulrich Bechir]

Captain's Log, Stardate 230223

Today, I had a conversation with Dr. Fargus Skytower regarding his past service record. As I attempted to retrieve his files, I discovered that he had been dishonorably discharged and was believed to be dead. However, charges against him were dropped and his medical license remained intact. Dr. Skytower disclosed that he was discharged due to insubordination after objecting to a Captain's order to leave a planet where a genocide had taken place without taking any action.

During our conversation, Dr. Skytower reaffirmed his commitment to saving lives and doing what is right, and I believe him. He was clear in his belief that he would make the same decision again if he were placed in the same situation. While I understand the importance of following orders, I also understand that there are times when one must choose to do what is right, even if it goes against orders.

I am glad that I had this conversation with Dr. Skytower. It allowed me to see him in a different light, and I have a better understanding of what took place. As we continue our mission in this sector, I am confident that Dr. Skytower will be an asset to the crew and to our mission.

Captain Bechir out.

[Ulrich Bechir]

Captain's Log, Stardate 230226:

We have finally apprehended the individual responsible for the recent attacks, and have identified him as a member of the "Telepathic Empire." The chase was intense, and we were forced to utilize our psi shield technology at the cost of our EPS Shear system. Thanks to the bravery and quick thinking of LTCMDR Otsuka, LTjg Buckbeak, and ENS Spartan, we were able to capture the individual without any casualties among our crew, although they narrowly escaped an explosion caused by the individual's ship.

Upon questioning the captive, we learned that the Telepathic Empire has replaced the Underground, which is no longer in existence due to the end of the Devore in this part of space. While I was involved in the initial questioning, it was left primarily to LTjg Buckbeak, and I eagerly await his report.

Unfortunately, the captive caused a psi feedback loop and self-destructed, which was a tragic loss of potential information. Doctors Austen and Skytower did an excellent job monitoring the away mission crew and creating a temporary solution to dampen the captive's psi abilities, although it was not enough to prevent the catastrophic event.

I must commend LT Bacraius for her exceptional piloting skills, which allowed us to get close enough to the individual's ship to use transporters. ENS Spartan also did a fantastic job manning the guns and keeping us safe, while ENS Savesh ensured the smooth operation of the psi shields with the assistance of LT T'Lara.

As we prepare for Quantum Slipstream, we have received an emergency communication. It appears that we may be needed elsewhere, and we must be ready to respond. I cannot help but feel guilty about leaving the Telepathic Underground to face the Devore alone thirty years ago, but I had to follow orders from Starfleet Command and protect my crew from the dangerous psionic influence. We must now look for more long-term solutions to prevent a similar tragedy from happening again.

Captain Ulrich Bechir, signing off.

[Ulrich Bechir]

Captain's Log, Stardate 230302

Today, I had a meeting with Fleet Captain Skot Brit and Doctor Fargus Skytower regarding the charges brought against the doctor for violating the Prime Directive and theft of Starfleet property. The doctor confessed to the charges, but Fleet Captain Brit suggested a compromise rather than going through a lengthy trial with an unsure outcome which would be muddied by the fact that the Doctor had been presumed dead for over 20 years: that Doctor Skytower would serve on the Shogun under my supervision until the end of his service.

Doctor Skytower seemed hesitant at first, but ultimately agreed to the compromise. I made it clear to him that he would be working for me and Doctor Austen, and that it was still her sickbay. Fleet Captain Brit also reminded him that he could still keep his old commander pips as a memento, and that he might have the chance to display officer-like behavior in the future.

I'm glad we were able to come to a solution that worked for everyone, but I couldn't help but feel uneasy about the situation. Doctor Skytower violated the Prime Directive, but in my heart, what he did was right. He should not have been made to stand aside and witness genocide at the hands of a technologically superior species. I do not believe that is what the Prime Directive was created for. Still, what was tantamount to assault of his former captain and the theft of a shuttle is a bit more difficult to understand. At least he had technically left Starfleet when he violated the prime directive, making that issue slightly more muddy.

In any case, while I'll be keeping a close eye on him while he serves on the Shogun he still is my friend, although at times I don't think he feels like he is. I know he's a more than capable doctor and he will be of great benefit to the crew, as long as he is able to deal with his new status quo. He chose this option instead of the other possibility of standing trial in the Federation. Let's hope that it all works out for him, and us.

Computer, end recording.



((THANK YOU TO SKOT BRIT FOR TAKING PART IN WHAT WAS A FUN ROLEPLAY))

[Ulrich Bechir]

Captain's Duty Log, Stardate 230305.1108:

I am deeply concerned about the security of the Federation in light of our recent findings on the Telepathic Empire. It is clear that they have no scruples and are willing to attack any Federation ships, stations, or colonies, either from within or through military means.

Furthermore, I believe that they may be receiving assistance from an external source, which is troubling to say the least. The technology mix and data we gathered from the Rejgoss colony suggests that the Telepathic Empire attempted to ingratiate themselves with the locals before turning on them and enslaving them.

It is imperative that we ensure the Federation and Starfleet are free from any Telepathic Empire members, without resorting to a witch hunt or violating their rights. We cannot stoop to the same level as those who attack non-psionics.

Our search for information on the Telepathic Empire led us to planet H-KF 398-IV in the G-FK 398-12-M1 system, which the inhabitants referred to as Frelthgus. The colonizers, known as the Rejgoss, arrived on the planet in cryostasis about a hundred years ago, with no evidence of being warp capable. Approximately 40,000 Rejgoss inhabited the planet at one point, but they all disappeared without a trace.

We found only one body in the open, with no other living souls present. Evidence from the Rejgoss' computer systems points to their abduction by a group of friendly aliens who promised aid and technology before enslaving them. It is likely that there were deaths and other atrocities committed during the enslavement.

The Rejgoss culture seemed unremarkable, but they were on the verge of developing warp drive technology. The colony itself was a strange mix of old and new technology, suggesting that some items were brought with them while others were made from raw materials. We also do not know the extent to which the Empire 'helped' them before taking everyone and leaving. We are, as a result, analyzing some of their more sophisticated technology at the request of LT T'Lara.

We must continue our efforts to gather intelligence on the Telepathic Empire and work towards finding a solution to stop them from causing further harm to the Federation and its citizens.

Computer End log.

[Ulrich Bechir]

Stardate 230317

Alert Status: Red

Security Level: Alpha-Two and higher (Only XOs and up are currently notified)
Starfleet Data Access: Level Four (Limited to INTEL, Commander UFS Security, CO/XO of ships/stations, JCs and VCinC/CinC)

Position: Block: 005D
Relative Location: 102.54 LY from Pinastri


Report:

Data analysis from 230312 Complete. Several threats to Pinastri, neighbouring planets and ships have been detected.

The station found had telepathic devices like the ones used to attack Shogun two months ago, but much larger. Four were active on the automated station we breached. There are 18 (eighteen) stations like this one according to their information, one in striking distance to Pinastri. Data found suggested they were being used to attack planets and space stations. The effect could kill telepathic subjects OR render them suggestible to Telepathic Empire commands. The Science and Engineering teams have developed a counter system but it requires great amounts of power to run, we have had to shut down key systems when we employ it. The plans for the psi shield are transmitted with this report.

More troubling is the fleet that the Telepathic Empire has amassed. Not counting their unnamed ally, they have a fleet of 200 ships amassed. While 100 of those ships are scout vessels (small light vessels without great attack capability), the remaining 100, especially the 25 destroyer class vessels with a crew capacity roughly the same as Shogun, are concerning. We have yet to encounter anything but a scout vessel, however they do employ a hodgepodge of technology which leads us to believe that there could be significant improvements in certain areas compared to Starfleet tech, but the vast majority of their technology is likely inferior. The psi emitters are the things that make these ships dangerous.

Full fleet size:

100 Scout ships (crew 1 to 6)
40 Light escorts (crew 20 to 25)
35 Heavy Escorts (crew 80 to 100)
25 Destroyer Class (crew approx 500)

It is absolutely clear that the Telepathic Empire intend to attack Pinastri at some point and are starting to muster a fleet. It is also clear that they could already be affecting Pinastri and several other ships/stations with their psi-emitters. The shielding will help but could cost a major system such as phasers or shield emitters power-wise.

Our goal will be to track as many of the space stations as possible and destroy them so they can no longer be used against us.

The Telepathic Empire plans and behaviours constitute a clear act of war. Please advise to any additional instructions from Headquarters/Command.

All Intelligence Personnel should remain vigilant. Watch for unusual behaviour amongst psi capable crew WITHOUT turning things into a witch hunt. These are still our colleagues, but may be under outside influence through no fault of their own. Similarly, depending on psi rating (lower is better) they may be unaffected.


In Service to the Fleet,

CAPT Ulrich Bechir
Commander of UFS Intelligence
Commanding Officer USS Shogun

[Ulrich Bechir]

**SECURE TRANSMISSION TO INTELLIGENCE BRANCH AND STARFLEET COMMAND**

Intelligence Report

Stardate: 230328
Type: Organization/Hostile Species Report

Subject: Telepathic Empire
Block: 005C
Relative Location: 111.92 LY from Pinastri
Security Data Level:Alpha-Two and higher (XOs and up, unless designated by the vessel’s Commanding Officer and/or Starfleet Command)

Report by: CAPT Ulrich Bechir
Service Number: 0010

This Report Contains <Either New or Updated> Information
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

=/\= REPORT BEGINS =/\=

During our most recent ‘visit’ to a Telepathic Empire station we uncovered the following information. This intelligence is to be given the highest priority.

DATA SET ONE:

39 hz vul

60 hz cait

38 hz rom

37 hz tel

17 hz hum

59 hz arc

29 hz kling

43 hz del

53 hz graz

39 hz ori

18 hz bet

22 hz bol
Work from our sciences and intelligence departments cause us to believe these are brainwave frequencies from various species. The frequency is given, with a short letter code coordinating to the species involved.

We are unsure as of yet what this is used for.

Data Set Two:

Sector 006D

DELTA 242, -24, 65

Sector 004D

DELTA 45, 98, -176

Sector 005C

DELTA 66, 92, 88

Sector 004E

DELTA -39, 66, 110

These are space station coordinates. They are local to us and we have started tracking them to destroy them. Once these stations are tracked and destroyed, we hope to find other station coordinates (before destroying the stations of course).

Data Set Three:

Psynari - A humanoid species with pale blue skin and pointed ears. The Psynari possess strong telepathic abilities that allow them to communicate with each other and with other species across great distances. They are known for their peaceful nature and their ability to mediate conflicts through telepathic communication.

Tamarians - The Tamarians are a humanoid species known for their unique language, which is based on metaphor and allegory. They possess a form of telepathy that allows them to share their memories and experiences with other beings, but only if they have a common frame of reference.

Viidians - The Viidians are a humanoid species known for their highly advanced medical technology. They are also telepathic and possess the ability to read the thoughts and emotions of other beings. This ability makes them highly skilled at diagnosing and treating illnesses, but also makes them feared by other species who view their telepathy as invasive.

Valtorians - A reptilian species with green scales and sharp claws. The Valtorians are a fiercely territorial species with a complex social hierarchy based on telepathic dominance. Their telepathic abilities also allow them to sense the emotions and intentions of other beings, which they use to their advantage in negotiations and strategic planning.

Vulcans - The Vulcans are a humanoid species known for their logical and unemotional demeanor. They possess strong telepathic abilities that allow them to perform a mind meld, a technique where they can establish a mental link with another being and share thoughts and memories.

Numiri - The Numiri are a reptilian species known for their aggressive and territorial behavior. They possess powerful telepathic abilities that allow them to control the minds of other beings, which they use to dominate and manipulate other species. Their telepathic powers are so strong that they are immune to most forms of telepathic attack.

Betazoids - The Betazoids are a humanoid species known for their empathic and telepathic abilities. They possess the ability to sense the emotions and thoughts of other beings, which makes them valuable counselors and negotiators.

Aurorans - A luminescent, jellyfish-like species that floats through space and communicates telepathically through bursts of light and color. The Aurorans are a highly advanced species with a deep understanding of the universe and the laws of physics.

Mari - The Mari are a telepathic species that evolved on a planet with a highly radioactive atmosphere. Their telepathy developed as a means of communication in an environment where vocal communication was difficult. The Mari are known for their strong empathic abilities and their ability to sense the emotions and intentions of other beings.

Found in a sickbay on a station, these appear to be various species working within the Telepathic Empire. It is troubling to see known Federation species mixed in. This must be taken into account going forward.

Data Set Four:

Our battle plans are set and we are currently working with our allies to bring them to fruition. The stations are set up at variable distance from Pinastri to make taking the planet easier. Our goal is to first take Pinastri then the other Kazon sects. Once that is accomplished the Romulans will not be able to stand against us. We project full subjugation of this part of space within two solar years. It will be faster if we can use the Federation and Kazon ships against the Romulans, so we will attempt as few losses of ships and telepathic members of the Federation as possible.

This required significant decoding. However, it plainly shows the plans of the Telepathic Empire to not only destroy the Federation but to subjugate the Romulans and various Kazon sects as well. This may aid diplomatically with several ships who are attempting to gain Kazon and Romulan aid.

=/\= REPORT ENDS =/\=