STAR WARS: Episode 7 (All-Time #1 opening box office.) (2 Viewers)

[Thunderlips]

2. "Vader" movie that takes place in between first two trilogies: I personally think this is a no-brainer. If I'm sitting at the head of Lucas Films today and trying to convince Disney execs which direction I want to take, this is my suggestions. Why? A few reasons: Vader is the most popular villain of all-time. As a poster in the other thread stated, Vader stuff is all over their theme parks. James Earl Jones is still alive! There is a huge story that hasn't been told yet. The story of Vader mowing down all the Jedi. Another reason this movie makes the most sense: A great script could be written fairly easy. However, can the same be said about "post-ROTJ" movies? There are a ton of complications to making "post-ROTJ" movies, which I'll get into in the next portion. I think that the first film Disney does needs be an absolute home run. Basically if I'm Disney, I hand this movie over to Christopher Nolan, and say : give us Dark Knight 2.0 in the Star Wars Universe with Vader as the centerpiece. It would be unbelievable and make more money than probably any Star Wars film out there. Probability on this one: 3/10. As "slam-dunk" as it sounds, I just have no confidence that it will actually happen.

The problem with this is "who's the hero?" The good guys don't just lose, they lose badly. Too dark and no clear story arc.

One of the problems with the new movies was that Vader invoked very little sympathy in the viewer. The actor had no range and the reasons as to why the viewer should have any real sympathy were murky and disjointed. A Vader movie like this could very much work and strengthen the character throughout ALL the movies. It wouldn't have to be a case of him being an anti-hero to some element that's worse than him...they could make a movie about him destroying the Jedi while tangling with Obi-Wan/Yoda led resistance while trying to get his head around exactly what happened to him/Padme/his kids...

Problem is Yoda an Obi are in hiding. I don't think it would work for them to be heavily involved in the resistance.

It wouldn't really go against canon to say that they didn't sit out those twenty years between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope. IIRC, they never said that they sat on the sidelines that entire time. They might even be able to tie it into Empire Strikes Back with the whole cave on Dagobah thing that Luke went into.

 

[The Ref]

For anyone who has never seen this hour long review and considers themselves a Star Wars nerd, I highly recommend this. It's a complete dismantling of how bad the Phantom Menace was in a very educated smart and funny way. 4.2M hits so you know it's good.

One of the hidden gems of the internet. If this was a movie I'd watch it.

 

[The Ref]

I know it's been said once already, but not nearly enough. I'm very excited for new star wars material. But I think a new Indiana Jones movie with real actors and a real director would be just awesome.

 

[DocGonzo]

Reading this thread sent me over to starwars.com so it's only right I share some of this. It looks like they have the original trailers for Star Wars and the Empire Strikes Back posted over there. Kind of cool to watch these now:

A New Hope

Empire (The narrator's voice on this one seems familiar.)

 

[NewlyRetired]

I know it's been said once already, but not nearly enough. I'm very excited for new star wars material. But I think a new Indiana Jones movie with real actors and a real director would be just awesome.

The direction has been fine. Spielberg is real enough. Everything starts with the writing. The best director in the world can't create a good story and dialogue. I really hope Disney uses the best writers they can find for episode 7.

 

[netnalp]

I know it's been said once already, but not nearly enough. I'm very excited for new star wars material. But I think a new Indiana Jones movie with real actors and a real director would be just awesome.

I read there is another Indiana Jones in the works. I just hope they don't try to pass the saga on to Mutt, and hope to continue the franchise with him as the lead.

 

[Insein]

The good news is that it is virtually impossible to make anything worse than the last 3 abortions.

This would be a good post, except that there were only 3 Star Wars films. Anyone that says otherwise is lying or subject to some sort of mass delusion. There were no prequels.

I agree totally, I only used those terms so that the beguiled had a frame of reference.

I hate dumb people who think they're smart. PS We really need a facepalm smiley.

 

[Insein]

Didn't they sort of kill Vader and the Emperor?

Yea, there's kind of a #### ton more to Star Wars then just those 2 guys.

 

[Insein]

I gotta think that Disney knows they have a goldmine by releasing the original trilogy (without any of Lucas's add-ins later on) on DVD and blu-ray.

I'm pretty sure they didn't get those rights. Just the rights to new movies and content.

 

[Insein]

MY 3 top choices for a group of movies to be based on would be:

The Han Solo Trilogy. Basically the life of Han Solo before we met him that bright sunny day in a Mos Eisley Cantina on Tatooine. Very gripping tale of his rise to infamy and how he made his bones. Where he met Chewie. Who his first love was and how he played an indirect role in the early stages of the Rebellion. There would be Lando, Boba Fett and all sorts of rogues and scoundrels from Nar Shadaa to Coruscant. Who wouldn't love that?

The Bounty Hunter Trilogy. What happened to Boba Fett after he was eaten by the Sarlacc? He fought his way out like a Boss. Went on to be his bad ### self. Probably wouldn't make for a bunch of movies but 1 good Boba Fett movie would just kick ###.

The Zahn Trilogy. It's been the defacto episode 7-9 in the fan's minds for over 20 years. The level of detail and integration of new, lovable characters mixed in with the old mainstays was incredibly well done. Lucas himself could not have created a villain as well balanced and diabolical as Grand Admiral Thrawn. Mara Jade's introduction to the hearts and minds of the Star Wars fanbase. We see just how much Luke still has to learn about being a Jedi and his progression towards becoming a master. Han and a pregnant Leia with twins on the way. What's not to love?

After that, the EU has so much you could cherry pick from. The question is, how much do they take and how much do they create from scratch? What kind of license did Lucas give them in regards to the timeline? Will the EU become fanfiction in favor of a new Disney cannon? Lots of questions that will be answered but it is exciting. MY kids are going to be 2 in 2013. The thought of a new generation of Star Wars films for them to enjoy is promising.

 

[bentley]

I can't imagine that Disney is really going to put much stock in any of the fanboy writing that exists outside of the films or Clone Wars cartoons. That stuff is nonexistent for the general public.

 

[bentley]

Possible script. I have been working on this for quite awhile. hope you all enjoy.

WORLDS WITHOUT END REDUX

Act I

CHAPTER I.

In the endless void between the stars the mile-long form of a

starship moved silently, its chalk-white surface in perfect contrast

with the infinite night. The almost casual motion of this ship and

its two escorts was quietly observed. Star Destroyers, a powerful

front-line ship for the Galactic Empire, and a source of terror across

its territory. The recent arms race with the guerrilla movement to

overthrow their leadership had continued to push their weapons

technology further. It is this short time right now when that Empire

would be at its strongest, when they have their most advanced

technologies and an intact chain of command.

"Yes," said a voice with satisfaction, unconcerned with such

physical limitations on sound in a vacuum. "This will do nicely."

When those words were spoken, a change took place that was to

be felt across the universe. In some parts of the galaxy, some

special individuals noticed inexplicable feelings of uncertainty and

dread. For the two remaining masters of the Force, each the polar

opposite of his counterpart, it produced a disturbance unlike any they

had ever experienced in their long lives. And while these two were

wont to agree on anything, both could sense the potential doom that

had come into being.

On the other side of the universe a hopelessly mismatched

battle was about to come to its inevitable conclusion. One was the

Federation Starship Voyager, which has been cut off from its people

for over five years. Its opponent was a gigantic ship belonging to

the Federation's greatest enemy: the Borg. Unlike Voyager, it was

heavily-armed and effectively shielded, and there was no doubt who

would be the victor. But as it happened, this single battle between

two rather insignificant ships was in fact the most important one in

all of history, although neither side knew it.

"Any signs of other vessels in the vicinity," asked Captain

Kathryn Janeway, commander of Voyager.

"Negative, captain," Ens. Kim replied. "No other vessels in

range of our sensors."

The ship rocked under the impact of another Borg weapon.

"Direct hit, Deck 12," reported Lt. Tuvok at Tactical.

Janeway's first officer, Comm. Chakotay, stepped to her side.

In all crises he was her closest advisor. Unfortunately, there was

little to offer under the present circumstances. "Maybe there's

somewhere we can hide," he offered, "at least for a little while. Give

us a chance to patch the ship together."

The ship was struck again, and below in Astrometrics, Seven of

Nine was hastily examining their sensor readings. The fact that she

was a Borg herself was only relevant in that she knew what she was

fighting to escape. If there was any irony in her mind being pitted

against the hive collective that had trained her it was lost on her.

"Anything that can provide some cover?" Janeway asked over the comm.

"Nothing yet, captain," Seven replied, her voice even despite

the anxiousness of the moment. Seven was not one to panic, regardless

of the situation. She was adjusting the long-range sensors in the

vain hope of finding something when her console began to beep for her

attention. She tapped the panel and her brow furrowed in momentary

confusion. "Captain," she said, "Sensors have picked up what appears

to be a wormhole less than five hundred thousand kilometers from

here."

The ship shuddered again, and Seven could feel the explosive

decompression despite the room's seal. They wouldn't last much

longer. "How the hell did we miss that?" Janeway asked. "It's

practically on our doorstep."

"I'm not sure," Seven said, looking at the readings. "But it

is a wormhole." She continued tapping the panel as she analyzed the

readings. "Stable, but I have no idea where it leads." Seven's

stomach twisted as the inertial dampeners failed for a fraction of a

second. She passed the coordinates on to Navigation.

"Away from here, and that's good enough for me," Janeway said.

"Alter course, Mr. Paris."

Voyager turned tightly, and the cube altered direction to

pursue. Not long after, space opened up and swallowed both of them

without a trace.

Standing on the main deck of the Star Destroyer Incaciad,

Admiral Thrawn gazed at the space beyond. His crew was far too busy

ensuring the smooth running of the ship to pay much attention, and

even less time to wonder what he might be looking at, or thinking

about. It was a pointless exercise anyway; few could understand all

that went on behind those alien eyes, and yes he was alien. His

ascent to his current rank did nothing to change that fact in the

minds of the Imperial Navy, although it mattered little to those under

his command. Whatever feelings they might have for non-humans were

suspended for the grand admiral, and newcomers to the ship were

quickly educated in that fact by his crew. It takes extraordinary

effort to overcome a prejudice; but then, there was nothing ordinary

about Thrawn.

As it happened, he was thinking about the future, and how the

galaxy was going to change soon. The Empire was constructing a second

Death Star at Endor, supposedly more powerful than the first. Rather

redundant in Thrawn's estimation; a planet-destroying weapon's only

real benefit was in overwhelming planetary shields, which the first

Death Star was quite capable of doing. Even then, in practical

military terms it wasn't a terribly effective weapon. Perhaps to

eliminate the center of your enemies' leadership or to terrify a

populace into surrender, but what good, in the end, was blowing up a

planet you want to conquer? The Death Star was useful, but the extra

effort was a bit of a waste in Thrawn's estimation.

According to the secret communication, the Death Star's

construction was behind, and Darth Vader and the Emperor would oversee

the final stages of construction in person. Yes, the Emperor was

leaving the impenetrable security of Coruscant to personally observe

the construction of an inoperable and defenseless battlestation.

Seemed rather obvious a trap, but the Rebels had been suffering

several setbacks, and the Emperor's rather obvious trap did have a

particularly attractive piece of bait. He considered who might be

commanding the Imperial forces; probably Piett. Not a bad commander,

but not a very brilliant tactician either.

Thrawn was just considering some attack scenarios, were he in

charge, when he heard one of the crewmen speaking to Captain Jarrol.

"Sir, two ships have appeared on our scope."

Thrawn turned around and looked down towards the young man.

There was almost a sense of casualness about the way he acted. "Out of

hyperspace?"

"No sir," the crewman quickly responded to Thrawn, "they just

appeared out of nowhere."

"Indeed," replied Thrawn, still nonplused. "Let's have a

look," he said as he stepped towards the control station. He didn't

waste time telling the crew to raise the shields; they knew what he

expected of them. He examined the ships for several seconds. They

were clearly alien, and they didn't share any similar designs. The

smaller ship was visibly damaged, but if the larger cube-shaped vessel

was responsible, it showed no interest in making the kill just yet.

"Admiral," Jarrol said, returning from a quick discussion with

his deck officer, "we have an intruder on board. Engineering."

"I assume you're not referring to a rebel spy."

"No," Jarrol said. "According to witnesses it appeared out of

thin air."

"'It?'" Thrawn replied. Jarrol offered him the datapad and

Thrawn looked at the intruder. Mechanical components, but obviously a

living thing. "A cyborg," he said quietly.

"It made no threatening motions," Jarrol continued. "But when

it didn't heed instructions it was shot. They're taking it to the

infirmary to study it."

Thrawn looked up from the datapad to the two ships beyond the

windows. "So," he asked no one in particular, "which one did you come

from?"

"Sir, we're receiving a hail from the cubical vessel," an

officer reported. The sudden voice was chilling, as if a million

voices were speaking as one in some horrible chant. "We are the Borg.

We have analyzed your defensive capabilities and judged them to be

inadequate. Lower your shields and surrender your ships. We will add

your distinctiveness to our own. You will adapt to service us.

Resistance is futile."

On board the battered remains of Voyager, Captain Janeway rose

from her chair. "Hail them again."

Lt. Tuvok sent the message, but... "No response."

"Captain," Harry Kim said anxiously, "the Borg have beamed

over to the alien ship, the center one."

"How many drones?"

"One." Ens. Kim checks his instruments. "They must have beamed

over while their shields were still down."

Janeway turned to her first officer, unable to hide her

confusion. "Why would they not answer our hails? If they were

hostile, why haven't they fired? If they're peaceful, why ignore us?"

"Perhaps their communication technology is incompatible with ours," he

offered.

"We did receive energy readings earlier which may have been a

communication device," Tuvok informed them.

Janeway turned, her hand stroking her chin. Finally she

walked towards the turbolift with a quick gait. "Analyze those

signals, see if you can communicate with them. I'll be in engineering

- we still have a ship to put back together."

Thrawn watched the Cube advance. It was certainly big, but

there was no visible sign of any armored defenses, a rather odd

construction given the appearance of the cyborg below. "Flank them,"

Thrawn ordered, and the Kartinian and Lucinda advanced on the Cube

while the Incaciad moved into position. "Have the fighter crews

standing by," he ordered, "but don't launch until my order."

"Commander," Tuvok said, "the energy signal the Borg sent

earlier was similar in nature to the one we received from the alien

vessels. It might be their method of communication."

"Look at modifying our communications equipment to broadcast

using those signals," Chakotay said. "Whatever their intentions,

we've got to warn them before the Borg try something."

"Looks like we're too late for that," Tom Paris, Voyager's

pilot, said as Chakotay's attention returned to the screen. "It's

heading right for them."

Chakotay took a deep breath. "Let's hope they learn quickly,"

he said quietly.

"Use the Ion Cannons," Thrawn said, his voice with a steel

edge to it. "Perhaps we can take it intact."

Silvery-blue beams launched from the three star destroyers,

washing over the Cube's surface. It was clear that they were striking

the ship itself, but there was no noticeable effect, not even on the

sensors.

"Cease fire," Thrawn said. There was an unusual tone to his

voice, as if he were about to make a chess move right into a trap that

he could feel was there but couldn't quite see. "Turbolasers," he

ordered.

While the message was relayed to the stations Jarrol stepped

over to Thrawn's side. "Shall we launch our missiles as well?" he

asked.

Thrawn didn't answer at first, he just stared at the image of

the cyborg on his datapad. "No," he said finally. "And no fighters.

Just fire our lasers and let's see what happens."

Due to the sheer size of the Borg Cube the star destroyers

turned their ships so the heavy turbolaser batteries on their dorsal

side could all be brought to bear, much like it did during a Base

Delta Zero. That much firepower could normal eradicate all life on a

world in little time, and with the rate the plasma bolts tore through

the tritanium hull of the Cube it seemed that would be the case here

as well.

But for the Borg the purpose of the attack wasn't to fight, it

was to learn about this new species. Their scans had revealed new

types of technology, and what little information their lost drone had

gathered indicated that there was some that could be of use to the

Collective. Because even though they had been cut off from the hive

mind, the Borg never for a moment deviated from their purpose: to

consume technology and cultures that would increase their own

perfection. That it would involve their own destruction wasn't even a

factor.

The Voyager bridge crew watched in amazement as the cube was

slowly torn to pieces by the aliens with few retaliatory shots of

their own. The last time they'd seen anything like this--the only

time actually--was Species 8472. It was clear that Chakotay wasn't

the only one thinking that. "It doesn't look like the Borg have

adapted yet," Harry Kim observed.

"I don't think they'll get the chance," Chakotay said as a

corner ten times Voyager's size broke off from the main mass of the

Cube.

Paris swiveled nervously in his pilot's chair. "I hate to be

the pessimist here," he remarked, his eyes glued to the screen. "But,

I have a feeling they're not going to just ignore us after they're

through with the Borg."

Chakotay had been thinking the same thing. "Any progress,

Tuvok?"

"I believe I have the answer," Tuvok said, "but I am unable to

send the response."

"Was the comm system damaged?" Chakotay asked as he came

around to the tactical panel.

"Negative. But there is a powerful distortion field that's

blocking our ability to communicate."

"Some kind of energy noise," Harry Kim said. "It's playing

havoc with our sensors as well. I think it's coming from those alien

ships."

Any further discussion was halted when the Cube ruptured in a

series of smaller explosions as individual power distribution nodes

failed. Random debris scattered across space, buffeting Voyager with

shrapnel. Mercifully the shields held, but as they watched the three

ships responsible close on their location it was clear that was where

there good fortune ended.

It was fifty thousand lightyears from where the battle just

ended to the Imperial capital of Coruscant, but for a master of the

Force distance was something that happened to other people. The

Emperor hadn't moved since he had summoned Mara Jade hours before. His

meditation was so deep she wondered if he would ever return. It was

clear why she had been called here; with Vader overseeing construction

on the Death Star she was the only one left who could feel that he was

still alive. Even this deep there was no mistaking the powerful

impression he left on the fabric of life, a neutron star on the rubber

sheet that was the Force. Despite herself Mara jumped when he spoke.

"There is a great disturbance in the force."

"Yes master, you have told me." She tried to disguise her

fear. There was something different about him, but she was afraid to

probe it for fear of rebuke or, even worse, actually discovering what

it was.

"No, not that. No mere Jedi can do this. This is

something... alien."

Mara Jade had received little training in the Force, so she

could only wait while her master pondered what he'd felt. He seemed

to reach a decision. "You will remain here with me on Coruscant."

That hadn't been what she'd expected. "But, I was to kill

Skywalker."

"He is no longer a cause for concern," the Emperor said

flatly. "We must prepare for an even greater challenge." He stood up

and reached out for Mara. "Come." Mara climbed the steps and then

knelt before him. "Are you prepared to give up the life you have led

until now? Will you leave that person behind, if it meant limitless

power at my side?"

"Yes, my master," she said. Immediately she felt her mind

stabbed. It was hate, a cold hate, a hate that was born from

isolation in the frozen stars, a hate weaned on pain and nurtured by

abandonment and isolation. It was a hatred so black it consumed the

light, boundless and barren, it allowed no room for pity or mercy or

compassion, but it offered a strength that Mara could never have

imagined.

It had been an instant, and it had been forever, but the

sensation ended and Mara found herself panting on the stairs to the

Emperor's throne. "Rise," he ordered, but with a touch of friendship

to his voice. "It is time to begin your training, my young

apprentice."

CHAPTER II.

On a small, isolated world in a back corner of the galaxy that

the universe seemed to have forgotten, there was a single settlement.

On this world sat a tiny mud hut which happened to be the home of one

of the two most powerful masters of the Force that lived. If any had

somehow found themselves in this particular area of the swampy planet

they would have heard the sound of a heated argument between that

master and a particularly unruly student.

"Unfortunate that I know the truth?!" Luke Skywalker

exclaimed, unable to restrain his frustration. To have spent years

believing that his father had been a champion of good only to learn

that he was the very symbol of darkness wasn't easy, and the fact that

his teachers had deliberately perpetuated that illusion made it all

the more painful. Darth Vader, greatest enemy of all Luke held dear,

was his own father. Considering the weight of that statement, he was

taking it pretty well.

"Not ready for the burden were you," Yoda said wearily,

although Luke wasn't really listening. The master coughed, but

whether it was to get his attention or just succumbing to his age was

unclear. "There is a great evil coming. Stopped it must be. Time

you will have, but squander it you must not. Mind what you have

learned, save you it can." He was interrupted by another coughing

fit. "Hear, and remember: Once you start down the dark path," he

warned with a choke in his voice, "forever will it dominate your

destiny."

Luke could sense his master's lifeforce starting to fade, and

his own concerns were pushed aside. "Master Yoda..." he said

impotently, knowing that very soon he'd be gone, just like Ben... just

like so many people he'd cared about. It was so hard to keep burying

the people he loved, and now, when this horrible truth was placed

before him, the one he most needed to guide him was going to die too.

Master Yoda, sensing his fear, spoke to him, his voice broken

as he struggled for every breath. "There... is... another...

Skywalker." And with that, he vanished.

After taking a few moments to come to terms with his grief,

Luke exited the small hut and walked towards his ship. Artoo, the

most loyal droid ever built, warbled at him with concern. Even he

could tell something was wrong, and there definitely was. This was

his burden now; Ben, Biggs, Uncle Owen, Aunt Beru, and now even Master

Yoda, they were all gone, leaving him to face this impossible task. "I

can't do it, Artoo," he said quietly, more to himself than to his

droid. The emptiness weighed on his soul. "I can't go on alone."

"Yoda will always be with you," a distant voice told him, and

it took Luke a moment to realize he'd actually heard it out loud.

"Obi-Wan," Luke said, feeling a mix of emotions. He was glad

for the company of his long lost friend, but the lie was so fresh in

his mind he couldn't hide his sense of betrayal. "Why didn't you tell

me?"

The shade sat on a log and Luke joined him, listening as the

old man explained what had happened. His father had been the champion

that he had remembered, but the promises of the dark side in the end

had been too much for him. He had fallen... become so afraid of

losing the woman he cared about that he'd become the agent of the evil

the two of them had always fought so hard to stop. That was why Luke

had been hidden away, to save him from the same fate as his mother;

and so had she. "Leia," Luke said, the answer suddenly so clear.

"Leia is my sister."

"Your insight serves you well," Obi-Wan said with approval.

Luke knew what he meant, that this wasn't his burden alone. If

he could train his sister in the ways of the Force, if she too became

a Jedi, there might be a way to accomplish the impossible. "There is

still good in him," Luke told the elder. "Perhaps together-"

"You have time," Obi-Wan said, "but not as much as you might

think. You must prepare yourself for the destiny that awaits you. You

face not only Darth Vader, but the Emperor and the forces of evil. Do

not take Yoda's warning lightly." Luke could sense his teacher's

anxiety. "I'm afraid that in the trials to come you will face enemies

more powerful than you can possibly imagine."

Luke was resolute. "I can save him." There was no doubt in

his mind.

"You must do what you must," Obi-Wan said. "But never forget

what he is. Whatever has happened, destiny is clear. You will face

Darth Vader again."

Traveling across the universe, a single message defied physics

by exceeding the speed of light due to a few scientific

technicalities. Even then, it took centuries to cross the great

emptiness between galaxies. It was a perfect metaphor for the

eventual recipients: unfeeling, ever patient, inevitable. The Borg

are not so much a force of arms as they are a force of nature. And

when they received the message and learned about the existence of a

race with new technology to acquire, their reaction was predictable.

Unfeeling, and ever patient. It would be theirs; it was inevitable.

Captain Janeway and her senior officers stood at attention in

the main shuttlebay as they watched the Imperial ship dock. There was

a palatable excitement in the room as the door opened and the first

member of the Galactic Empire set foot on a Federation starship. Hours

before, they had feared it would be as a conqueror.

"They defeated the Borg," Janeway had said with dismay as

Chakotay filled her in from the bridge.

Her first officer nodded. "They made it look easy. We were

nervous for a little while, but once Tuvok contacted them we were able

to explain the situation. They're called the Galactic Empire."

"I guess that means we're a little farther from home than we

thought," Janeway said.

Chakotay nodded. "Harry estimates we're on the other side of

the known universe. Fortunately the wormhole is still stable, but I'm

not sure heading back yet is such a good idea."

"Agreed," Janeway said. "The last thing we need are more Borg

looking for their missing cube."

"Admiral Thrawn has offered to tow us to an Imperial station

where we can repair the ship."

And that was the man: Admiral Thrawn. The man who had

destroyed a Borg Cube in minutes, and who had brought their ship to

the station for repairs. What they hadn't realized was that the

station was one hundred eighty light-years away, a journey of several

weeks for Voyager. The Incaciad had done it in eleven minutes. As

the captain of a ship trapped thirty-five thousand light-years from

home, that wasn't the kind of thing you failed to notice. With that

ability, Voyager could be home in days, and Janeway was ready to do

anything to get her hands on it, even if she had to resort to stealing

it.

Janeway stepped forward and greeted Admiral Thrawn. His skin

was blue, and his red eyes were rather intimidating, but he wore a

friendly enough expression as she approached. He was polite as she

made introductions and then began a tour of their ship. Eventually,

he seemed to steer the conversation in a different direction.

"I'm rather interested in that ship you were fighting," Thrawn

said as they left astrometrics. "The Borg?"

"The Borg," Janeway said, briefly reflected on her own

experience with them. "Not exactly the friendliest of races from our

side of the wormhole."

"Certainly not very personable," Thrawn agreed. "Are they

your enemies?"

"Only in the sense that we exist," Janeway said as they

entered the turbolift for the lower decks. "The Borg don't see anyone

besides themselves as anything except raw materials."

"Charming," Thrawn said as they exited the lift. A short way

up the corridor Janeway directed him to a door on the right.

"This is our transporter room," Janeway said.

Thrawn looked about it, his brow furrowed. "I'm not quite

sure I understand."

Janeway gestured towards the transporter pad. "This device

allows us to break down matter in one location and reconstitute it in

another." She was starting to feel hopeful; if this was technology

alien to the Empire she could possibly trade it for their own

technology: the hyperdrive.

"You do this with people?" he said, attempting to hide his

distaste.

"It's perfectly safe," Janeway said a bit too quickly.

Thrawn tapped his lips as he looked at the pad and the

controls thoughtfully. "I could see how it could be useful in moving

large amounts of cargo," he said finally.

"I'm so glad to hear you say that," Janeway said with a smile

that would put a Ferengi to shame.

In a different part of the galaxy, near Sullust, Luke wasted

little time in shedding his flight suit and heading down to the

meeting room in Home One. He wasn't certain what was being discussed,

but he knew it would revolve around the Emperor's new Death Star.

Having already gone against one, he was leery about a repeat

performance.

In a group like the Rebel Alliance there's always an attempt

to maintain military command and discipline, but in the end you are

dealing with just bush pilots, pirates, and militia. The noise of the

many arguments was a bit surprising, so Luke quickly slid over to

where Leia Organa and Han Solo, his closest friends, were sitting.

"What's going on?" he asked, noting the scowl on Han's face.

"Just five hundred people with five hundred different ideas

about how we should end the war," Han said cynically.

"The Emperor has changed his plans," Leia said. Her face was

a mask, but he could sense the conflict in her. She seemed uncertain

about what they should do herself. "Originally he was going to

inspect the Death Star, but now he seems content to wait for them to

get on schedule themselves."

Luke understood. "We were hoping to take advantage of it."

"Exactly," Lando Calrissian said, taking a seat next to Luke.

"The old man never leaves Coruscant, it would've been the perfect

opportunity to take him out of the picture for good."

"The Emperor is incidental," General Blissex said emphatically

as the argument toned down slightly. "The Death Star is a weapon of

unimaginable destruction and it must be destroyed."

"Agreed," General Madine said, "But at what cost? We prepared

for this assault knowing we had an opportunity to behead the Empire.

Without the Emperor the Death Star is a less important target."

"We need to do this now," Admiral Ackbar said. "With the

weapons systems non-operational we stand our best chance against it."

"It's too great a risk for too small a prize," Madine replied.

"The plan commits all of our resources. If we attempt and fail the

Alliance is finished, and with it any hope of restoring freedom to the

galaxy."

"If we wait, we only postpone the inevitable," General Blissex

said. "The Empire has already proven this weapon is not for show.

They used it against Alderaan because they sympathized with us. If

that weapon is complete, no one is going to be willing to risk helping

us. We'll lose our support and eventually be wiped out."

"Princess Organa," Mon Mothma said over the din. "You are the

senator from Alderaan. You've seen this weapon used first hand. What

is your opinion of all this?"

"She's not a military officer-" Blissex began, but wilted

under Mon Mothma's stare.

Leia took a deep breath, and Luke could feel that she was even

more conflicted. "The Emperor does nothing on a whim," she said

finally. "He has shown throughout his reign that he carefully plots

out his every choice. His tight rein on the military high command is

proof enough of that." Luke could sense the pain as she thought about

her homeworld. "No one is more aware than I of the threat that weapon

poses, but we can't let fear blind us to reality. The Emperor's

sudden behavior is indicative of something important, more important

than his pet project. Or, even worse, I fear he may have learned our

intentions, and altered his plans accordingly."

"How could he know?" General Reikken asked. "Are you

suggesting a spy amongst us?"

"I'm suggesting that the Emperor might have laid a trap for us

at Endor," Leia said. "And if so we'd be fools to step into it. If

not, if he changed his plans for some other reason, we may have our

priorities out of order."

"What could be more important than a Death Star?" Ackbar

demanded.

"That, admiral," Leia said, "is exactly what I'm afraid of

finding out."

After some time the group finally agreed to hold off on the

attack until the rebel spy network was able to learn more about the

Emperor's plans. There was still an almost funeral-like tension in

the air, regardless of everyone's view of the decision. They had had

their first real glimpse of the end, and it had been just as suddenly

lost. But as Ben had told him, Luke had time ahead of him, and he

planned to put it to good use. After the meeting he took Leia aside.

He didn't want to have to do it now, given her own burden at the

moment, but she had to know. "Leia," he said, finally finding the

courage to say the words, "I need to tell you something... something

rather incredible."

Admiral Thrawn's smile vanished after Janeway was transported

off the bridge of the Incaciad. It seemed like the woman would never

shut up, but after three days of conversations -enough time for the

engineering crews to install the new hyperdrive on Voyager- she had

filled him in on much of what lay on the other side of that wormhole.

Tens of thousands of splintered powers vying for their own little

share of their galaxy. Thrawn had little doubt what the Emperor and

his advisors would have in mind, and given his own proximity to the

anomaly... he suspected he'd have a very interesting opportunity in

that little ship. "Captain," he said, not even turning his head.

"Yes, admiral," Captain Jarrol replied.

"Have our fleet escort Voyager to the wormhole," Thrawn said,

his eyes never leaving the vessel. "Let's make sure she doesn't lose

her way."

"Engineering to the bridge," B'ellana Torres, Voyager's Chief

Engineer, said over the comm. "We're ready down here."

Janeway was literally on the edge of her seat in anticipation.

"Seven?"

"I've established a link between our astronavigational

database and long-range sensors," Seven said as she entered some

commands in astrometrics. "I've fed the data through to the helm."

She finished tapping the panel. "Whenever you're ready, Mr. Paris."

"You heard her, Tom," Janeway said, fidgeting with excitement.

"Set course for the wormhole, maximum..." she stopped short.

"Velocity," she shrugged at Chakotay, who smirked at her.

"I'm sure they'll come up with a name for it soon enough," he

replied.

"Course laid in," Tom Paris said at the helm. "Engaging the

hyperdrive." With a single push of a button, the stars began to

stretch and turn, and the Voyager crew found space suddenly replaced

with a kind of milky-white pattern around them.

Janeway stood up and approached the screen. She had been in

Engineering when the Incaciad had brought them to the Imperial

station, and hadn't witnessed hyperspace before. "It's beautiful,"

she said quietly, the tiniest hint of emotion in her voice.

"Yes it is," Harry said. "It's the way home."

Almost as suddenly the starlines returned, and the normal

ebony of space spread out before them. "Are we there?" Janeway said,

her voice still barely audible.

"Yes, captain," Paris said. "And for the record we made it in

12 minutes, 41 seconds. Just might be a new Starfleet record."

"Let's hope we have an opportunity to challenge that record,"

Janeway said. "Give our thanks to-"

Captain Janeway never finished. Instead space twisted in on

itself before her, and the ominous sight of three Borg Cubes filled

the screen in front of her. "Oh my God," she whispered. "They found

the wormhole." She watched the Cubes pass Voyager and fly towards

their star destroyer escort. "What have we done?"

CHAPTER III.

The Napuli System was, for the most part, a strategically

useless area of space. Little mineral wealth, no known colonies or

life, and a hundred light-years from a settled system, it was as

important in the grand scheme as a blade of grass is to a wheat field.

However, the fact that the first fleet engagement of the Borg War was

taking place here showed that things can change in an instant.

"All TIEs stand by," Thrawn ordered. "But do not launch

unless I give the word." Despite the seriousness of the situation his

voice was calm, but firm. He had learned a great deal about these

Borg, but most of it was second-hand. Still, Thrawn had experience

using little bits of information for his advantage.

"Admiral," Captain Jarrol said anxiously, "We're receiving a

communication. They-"

"I know what they want," Thrawn interrupted, his eyes never

leaving the three vessels. He was very quiet. "All turbolasers on

the center cube," he finally said. "From all vessels."

Jarrol hesitated for a moment, but only a moment. To him, it

was insane to ignore two-thirds of the opposing forces when they could

try to incapacitate all three, but he'd learned more than once to

follow his commander's orders regardless. Immediately their weapons

began tearing into the central cube. He kept his eyes on the sensors,

watching the devastation. The first cube they had encountered had

taken little time to destroy, and this one didn't look different,

until. "Lieutenant," he said with obvious confusion, "is there a

problem with the sensors?"

"Negative, sir," the lieutenant reported from the crewpit.

Jarrol turned away and stepped over. "Then why do the

instruments insist our weapons are doing less damage?" he said with

obvious irritation.

"It's not the instruments," Thrawn said quietly, his eyes

never leaving the tactical display. "It's them."

"What do you mean?" Jarrol asked. "Sir," he quickly added.

Thrawn looked back at the ship and then the display, and when

he spoke, it was as if he were discussion the duty roster. "The Borg,

captain, have adapted."

"Re-route power to the shields," Janeway ordered. "Evasive

maneuvers. Load all torpedo bays."

"Captain," Tuvok said, a calm center on the storm of the

bridge as always, "the Borg appear to be focusing solely on the

Imperials."

"Then give them something else to think about," she replied.

"Torpedoes, full spread."

One after the other the torpedoes exploded from the tubes and

impacted on the Borg ship. When the series completed itself, the

space glowed from the discharged plasma. But..."no effect," Tuvok

said.

"Bring us around," Janeway said, taking her seat. "Attack

along the same vector as the Imperials; we might be able to punch

through."

"Captain," Chakotay said quickly, "Maybe we should leave this

to the Imperials. They were more than a match last time."

"The Borg hadn't adapted yet," Janeway countered. "This time

they will, and the admiral will need every ship he can get." Chakotay

opened his mouth, but Janeway cut him off before he could even start.

"We brought them here. We are obligated to stop them. Tom, bring us

around."

The Intrepid-class starship weaved into the conflagration

between the titans, phasers and torpedoes trying to breach Borg

defenses. After a few minutes the combined efforts blew the cube to

pieces. A few words of encouragement were said, then the group moved

on to the next cube. "Torpedoes, full spread," Janeway ordered as the

tiny Federation ship dodged the Borg's energy weapon and closed in.

"There are only two torpedoes left," Tuvok informed her. "Do

you wish me to fire them?"

"Not yet," Janeway said. In the heat of the moment she'd

forgotten how the previous battle had seriously reduced their limited

supply. "Try to find an opening, then launch it down their throats."

"Sir," Captain Jarrol said as Thrawn continued looking between

the battle and the tactical display, "the Lucinda's shields are

failing. The Borg have been-"

"They're using a shield draining weapon," Thrawn finished.

"Set the jammers to a randomized pattern."

"Yes," Jarrol said as he passed on the order, but his

confusion was obvious.

"If the jamming is regular," Thrawn said, even though his

attention was focused on the battle, "they might find a way to

minimize it and use their transporters. We mustn't let that happen.

Launch all TIEs." He tapped the console as he watched the reports

coming in from the Lucinda. The Borg had ganged up on it in precisely

the same manner as the star destroyers. Shields were failing. "I

want TIEs to target all tractor beam emitters. The Borg can't be

allowed to assimilate any part of the Lucinda; not one member of the

crew, not so much as a wrench. Are my orders clear?" They were;

Thrawn was not one to resort to hyperbole.

"Captain!" Ens. Kim shouted with concern. "I'm reading

hundreds of ships, too many to get a precise count."

"More Borg?" Janeway asked, her heart in her throat.

"No," Kim replied, more restrained, "they're from the Imperial

ships. They appear to be large shuttles."

"They're not evacuating, are they?" Janeway asked Chakotay in

confusion.

"I don't think so, Captain," Tom Paris said as he pointed to

the display. They watched as the ships swarmed around Voyager and

swooped in at the cubes, their weapons tiny pinpoints as they fired at

the massive ships.

"It looks like Thrawn had a little surprise planned," Chakotay

remarked.

"Hopefully this will turn the tide," Janeway remarked as they

joined in the attack with the fighters.

"I don't think so, Captain," Kim said, his disappointment

transparent. "They've begun assimilating one of the star destroyers."

The bridge was a buzz of controlled activity as the task of

running a warship and coordinating a battle continued with the fine

precision Thrawn demanded of his officers. The admiral himself was

silently weighing the factors in his cold mind. The difference

between Thrawn's thinking and a military computer's was that the

computer was not aware of the moral consequences of its decisions. The

difference between Thrawn and most officers was that he didn't allow

that to influence his thinking.

"Give me Captain Tamez," Thrawn said. Activity in the room

quieted slightly; the admiral rarely spoke with the other vessels

directly during combat. "Captain," Thrawn said as the hologram

appeared on the bridge, "can you raise your shields?"

"No sir," Tamez replied, doing his best not to display any

emotion as the Borg tried to carve his ship apart around him.

"Captain, I want you to ram the port cube." He spoke as if it

were a minor course correction.

"Say again?" Tamez replied.

"The Borg are assimilating you," Thrawn said. "They want to

take you and your crew and turn you into brainless slaves. If you

don't destroy them, this will happen."

"We have them outnumbered-"

"You won't last that long," Thrawn said, "and we are short on

time. You can die a slave or die fighting to save the Empire. I

suggest you choose the latter."

Tamez obviously didn't like either choice. "Admiral-"

"Ramming speed," Thrawn said. "Those are your orders."

Tamez took a deep breath through his nose. "Yes, admiral." He

tried to put as much pride into the words as he could, and the

hologram faded. The bridge remained quiet as Thrawn's order seemed to

hang in the air.

Thrawn stepped back to his position in front of the tactical

display. He could explain to them that anything the Borg assimilated

could be used to learn about the Empire and how to destroy it, and

that even obliterating the vessels wouldn't keep that knowledge from

being passed on to the collective. Of course, he was also the

admiral, and he explained to no one but the Emperor. "Unless we wish

to share their fate," he said evenly, "we must focus on the task at

hand."

The bridgecrew of Voyager watched in shock as the star

destroyer and the cube collided in an explosion so energetic they were

flashblinded. An energy wave struck and knocked them off balance.

When Janeway managed to right herself she was able to make out the

shattered remains of the cube; the star destroyer was vaporized.

"Death before assimilation," Chakotay said grimly. "I'm sure

a few Federation captains had similar thoughts."

"Earth," Janeway said quietly. She looked at Chakotay, and

noticed the odd way he looked at her. "Captain Riker was prepared to

do the same thing to save Earth when the Borg first came." She shook

her head. "We have more in common with these Imperials than physical

appearance." She called out orders for battle to finish off the

remains of the final cube, but part of her couldn't stop thinking

about what had happened.

Luke looked on with some concern as Leia held the lightsaber

tightly in her hands. He could sense her fear, which was an important

concern. His family didn't have a good history with the dark side.

"Relax," he told her, "Don't try to force it. Just let it happen." He

activated the remote, which began to move with a series of small,

deliberate motions. Every few seconds a beam would lash out--not

strong, just enough to sting. Leia swung the blade, but missed. This

repeated until Luke could sense her frustration. "I know it seems

hard, but that's just it. It only seems hard because you think it is.

Stretch out with your feelings, and don't worry about whether you

block or not. Just let your instincts guide you."

"Easy to say," Leia said through gritted teeth, "hard to do."

The blade was brought up, almost blocking the latest bolt.

"Like all things, it takes practice and patience." Which was

true, but there was no sense in going too hard on her on her first

day. Luke stretched out with the Force and turned the remote to a

lower setting. He felt a flash of anger.

"I don't need you to go soft on me," Leia told him. "I just

need to get the hang of things."

Luke nodded with a small smile. "How did you know?" he asked.

Leia opened her mouth to speak, and then closed it. "I don't

know. I just... just knew."

"Now you're starting to understand," he said with approval.

"Trust your feelings, don't second guess them."

Leia took a deep breath then held the lightsaber out in front

of her, eyes fixed on the remote. It fired, slow at first, then

faster. The green blade slipped through the air with a quiet hum as

it snatched at each sliver of energy, bouncing it away harmlessly.

Luke switched it off and clapped his hands a few times. "You've taken

the first step," he said with approval. "But there's something you

must always remember. Take these steps only along the proper path."

He paused, realizing that it was only a week ago that he was the

pupil. He wished Master Yoda was there to train her, to give the

guidance that Leia needed to avoid the trap their father had stepped

into and that he nearly succumbed to as well. That was Yoda's last

warning to him, something that, even as he died, he wanted Luke to

remember. He would face his father again; would he face the dark side

again as well? And more importantly, could he find the strength to

refuse it, or would he give in to temptation?

"Are you all right?" Leia asked.

Luke tried to put on a cheerful face. She was definitely

growing in her powers. "I'll be fine," he assured her. "Let's

continue with your exercises."

"Are they gone?" the Emperor asked.

"Yes, your highness," the hologram replied. Mara stopped her

exercise, her instincts telling her that something important was going

on. After a few seconds she recognized the hologram as Thrawn, one of

the more gifted military commanders, but nevertheless an alien.

However good they might be, never trust an alien, or so the Emperor

had taught her; and he was right. Thrawn may command in his navy, but

the Emperor did not for an instant allow that to cloud his judgment of

the creature.

"What do you know about this Federation?" the Emperor asked.

"They are but one of thousands of minor powers located in

their galaxy," Thrawn replied. "Many have little knowledge of the

existence of most of the others. Communication on the galactic scale

is virtually non-existent."

"That can be used to our advantage," the Emperor replied.

"What of the leader you spoke with?"

Thrawn chuckled. "Janeway is extremely naïve. She seems to

take everything at face value. After the Lucinda was destroyed she

gave us all tactical information they had on the Borg, no matter how

obscure. There is a multitude of details we can use to deduce

information about tactical and strategic possibilities against a great

deal of powers in their galaxy. And of course, the information on the

Borg itself will be extremely useful."

"Indeed," the Emperor said. "What is your assessment of these

Borg?"

"They are obviously a threat, you highness," Thrawn replied

simply. "They no doubt want to assimilate us as well, and since it's

impossible to negotiate with them, armed conflict is unavoidable."

"Then you are recommending that we prepare for war," the

Emperor replied.

"Your Excellency, I suggest that we deter them from that

course. A retaliatory strike into their territory as a direct

response to their invasion would demonstrate that further conflicts

with the Empire would not be in their best interests."

Mara could sense the Emperor's mood sour. Was Thrawn

attempting some duplicity? "I thought you said these Borg are

unreasonable."

"Your highness, the Borg cannot be reasoned with, but they

are, in the end, beings of logic."

The Emperor was silent for several minutes, but Thrawn said

nothing, a wise choice as far as Mara was concerned. Her master was

right, this alien couldn't be trusted. However, the Borg were

definitely a threat if they could cause the destruction of a star

destroyer. "I want you to take command of a task force of vessels

from the nearest space station, and cross into this Milky Way galaxy."

"Yes, your excellency," Thrawn replied.

Mara could sense the Emperor's irritation. He had no doubt

been expecting Thrawn to presume he would command the war effort, and

thus humiliate him by denying it. "I want a station built on the

other side of the wormhole to serve as a launch platform for our

efforts and to maintain communication throughout the conflict. See

that it is built quickly and protected from the Borg."

Thrawn nodded and the hologram faded. The Emperor turned

towards Mara, his gaze causing her to wither slightly. The more she

grew in her power, the more she could sense how great the gap was

between them. He noticed her reaction, as he noticed everything, and

a smile drew to his lips at her fear. "Good," he said slowly. "Fear

is the path to strength. Terror, hatred, passion, these are the

things of power. Embrace them, my young apprentice."

"Yes, my master," she replied with a slight bow. She

hesitated, unsure if it was her place to speak with him of such

things. "Master, do you really trust such an important matter in the

hands of the Chiss?"

The Emperor waved the remark away as he returned to his

throne. "He is an able planner and a skilled tactician, but I would

not be so foolish as to trust him with this campaign. Darth Vader's

fleet has the most capable officers in the navy; they will deal with

the Borg."

"But what of the rebels," Mara replied. "If they attack while

the fleet is gone-"

"The rebels will not attack," the Emperor replied. "And if

they were so foolish, the battlestation is shielded, and no army in

existence can equal the one I have placed to guard the generator. No,

my young pupil, the rebels are no threat."

Mara nodded her agreement, but the Emperor could sense her

thoughts. He chuckled. "Yes, you are correct child. One must never

underestimate one's enemy, no matter how nearly vanquished they might

be." It was a lesson her master had impressed on her from day one; a

lesson one of her predecessors had learned from a lightsaber point.

"The rebel support will wither once my battlestation is operational,

lest they suffer the same fate as Alderaan. You need not always

battle to win, young Mara, you can succeed merely by using your

enemy's fears against them."

"I still don't understand."

The Emperor smiled, and Mara could sense he was thinking about

the Federation and its neighbors. "You will child. You will."

 

[Insein]

I can't imagine that Disney is really going to put much stock in any of the fanboy writing that exists outside of the films or Clone Wars cartoons. That stuff is nonexistent for the general public.

If by fanboy writing you mean officially licensed content that extended the storyline and has sold billions of dollars worth of books, then yea I think they will give it a thought.

 

[bentley]

I can't imagine that Disney is really going to put much stock in any of the fanboy writing that exists outside of the films or Clone Wars cartoons. That stuff is nonexistent for the general public.

If by fanboy writing you mean officially licensed content that extended the storyline and has sold billions of dollars worth of books, then yea I think they will give it a thought.

No. I've read a fair amount of it and I'm pretty sure that most of the Star Wars movie-seeing public has no idea about that stuff and that Disney would be foolish to bow to any of it. There's not much stock to be put in "officially licensed content" from George Lucas. There isn't anything he wouldn't license, regardless of quality.

 

[Insein]

Possible script. I have been working on this for quite awhile. hope you all enjoy.WORLDS WITHOUT END REDUXAct ICHAPTER I.In the endless void between the stars the mile-long form of a ridiculous long post that is only fit for fanfiction.com could be summed up with 4 letters.

TLRJust, why?

 

[bentley]

CHAPTER IV.

Captain Janeway tried not to fidget in front of the admirals,

but it wasn't easy. With the celebrations of Voyager's return ending,

the reality of all that had happened had sunk in. For five years she

had no superior officers to deal with, no one to report to but her own

conscience. Now that she was home, those five years were about to be

placed under a microscope.

"Captain, before we begin," said Admiral Parks, the senior

officer present, "I want you to understand that this is not an

official inquiry or a disciplinary investigation. We just want to

clear up some of the events that took place during your absence."

Janeway nodded. "I understand, admiral." She was glad none of

them were telepaths and could tell what a lie that was.

"Good," Parks turned to a white-haired man at the end of the

row. "Adm. Jellico, I believe you had a topic of particular concern."

Admiral Jellico nodded. "Captain Janeway. You ascribed your

speedy return to a group called the," he turned to his notes, "the

Galactic Empire?"

"Yes," Janeway answered, "we worked out an exchange with a

representative of the Empire wherein they were given transporter

technology and we were given their propulsion device."

Jellico consulted his notes again. "A device called a

'hyperdrive'."

"Yes. They showed interest in our transporters, and we

obviously needed their device a great deal."

"Enough to violate the Prime Directive?" Jellico replied.

The suddenness of the remark caught her off guard. "What do

you mean, sir?" Janeway replied.

"According to your report," Jellico said, "the Empire is not

only on the other side of the universe, but is existing at a time far

earlier than our own."

"Yes," Janeway replied. "We discovered that the wormhole

displaces in space as well as time, at the speed of subspace in fact."

"Very convenient," Jellico said with disinterest, "but it

doesn't explain why you deliberately gave technology to a society that

existed, by your own admission, before our own."

Janeway's voice dropped in pitch. "We didn't know about this

at the time. It wasn't until the Borg showed up that we realized it.

In either case, I stand by my actions."

"Even though they violate Starfleet regulations?" Jellico

asked pointedly.

"Yes," Janeway remained stoic, "I do."

Janeway expected the barrage to continue, but Jellico suddenly

reversed thrusters, catching her off guard. "Would you not in fact

say that your actions were necessary to ensure the safety of your

crew?"

"Yes," she replied, wondering if she'd just stepped into

Jellico's trap.

"Would you describe the Galactic Empire as being hostile?"

Janeway was growing more suspicious, but she firmly believed

that the truth justified her. "In every encounter I had with them,

the Empire showed they were civilized and cooperative."

Admiral Parks spoke up. "Would you be willing to testify to

that before the Federation Council?"

"Yes," she replied, but didn't understand. She said as much.

"It's really quite simple, captain," Jellico said. "We want

you to tell all of this to the Federation Council tomorrow."

"To accomplish what?"

"A lot has happened while you were gone, captain." Parks

hesitated. "The Federation is in trouble. We've been having diplomatic

negotiations with practically every two-bit planet in our part of

space. We need support if we are to survive."

She'd been gone too long, Janeway realized. She'd forgotten

about how much of a hotbed the alpha quadrant can be. It fell into

place in an instant. "Then what you want..."

Jellico finished, "We think the Federation should form an

alliance with the Empire."

Seven of Nine waited outside the briefing room, hands clasped

behind her back in what passed for a relaxed pose, moving only as much

as was required to remain alert. It was for this reason she was aware

of the small group of Starfleet personnel - cadets, she noted from

their insignia - that had gathered to stare at her since she and

Captain Janeway had arrived. Scoptophobia was an irrational fear, as

was paranoia; human foibles that she as a Borg had grown far beyond.

Their whisphered discussions about her were of no concern, no concern

at all.

"Do you require something?" she asked, causing the small crowd

to jump at the suddenness of her remark. Despite herself she hadn't

been able to keep the belligerence out of her voice.

"Um," one of the female cadets said as her classmates

distanced themselves from her slightly, "we were wondering if it was

true... what they said, I mean. That you're a Borg."

"I am an individual now," Seven replied.

"But, you were a Borg," the cadet replied. "You used to be."

Seven resisted the pointless desire to rub her hands together

at the uncomfortable situation. "Yes," she finally replied.

"Does it hurt when you're assimilated?" someone else asked.

"I don't remember," Seven replied.

"I thought Borg never forget anything," the first cadet

replied.

"We do not waste valuable resources on the pointless

recollection of pain."

"Did you ever help assimilate anyone?"

Seven wrung her hands instinctively. "Yes," she replied

quietly.

"Did they show they were in pain? Did they want you to stop?"

"I don't remember," she said sharply.

"Mr. Hicks," a voice came from behind Seven, "are you in

charge of this gathering?" All the cadets drew to attention. Seven

glanced between them and a white-haired man that had just exited the

briefing room.

"No, sir," the female cadet replied.

"You are now," he said. "Since your classmates have nothing

better to do than gawk in a hallway, I think you can find the time to

inventory the cargo containers at Docking Platform #2. I'll inform

the quartermaster that you will personally have it on her desk by 2100

hours."

"Yes sir," she replied, and with a nod from the officer they

rushed off. As they left the man joined with a small group of others

who had just left the briefing room. Seven noted the smile on Captain

Janeway's face, a complete reversal of her previously somber attitude.

"Your debriefing went well?" Seven asked.

"Better than well," Janeway replied as the two started walking

through the corridors of Starfleet Command. "It seems our little

detour through the wormhole may have a much larger consequence than

we'd thought."

"The hyperdrive will bring substantial changes," Seven

remarked. "Further tradings for Imperial technology would be wise."

"Off the record," Janeway remarked, a phrase that Seven still

failed to understand, "it's going to be a lot bigger than that." They

drew to a halt as the cadet returned. "Can we help you?" Janeway

asked politely.

"I'm sorry, sir," she replied nervously, then turned to Seven.

"I just wanted to apologize on behalf of myself and everyone else. We

didn't mean to offend you."

"I do not take offense," Seven replied.

"Well, what we did was rude, and as future Starfleet officers

we should've known better."

Seven looked at Captain Janeway nervously, then back. "You

should be completing the admiral's orders. It would be a mistake to

neglect your duty by talking to me." She continued walking, the girl

looking oddly between her and Janeway before the captain rushed to

catch up.

"Was there a problem?" Janeway asked with concern.

"No," Seven said curtly.

Captain Janeway nodded, clearly not believing it but knowing

better than to bring it up now. "Let's get back to the ship. I think

we've spent enough time on Earth for right now."

Seven took a deep breath. "Agreed," she replied with a hint

of exhaustion.

Lt. Delric Taar tapped his datapad absentmindedly on the table

in front of him as he waited for the fleet-wide briefing to begin.

Whatever was going on made him edgy; the zero hour for the rebel

attack had come and gone, and command refused to breathe a word to the

lower decks of what was going on, even though it was obvious something

was up. The fleet had left the incomplete Death Star undefended days

ago, a dangerous move in his opinion. Of course, there was no love

lost between himself and the Death Star. More than one of his friends

had left the service over Alderaan, their hatred overwhelming their

loyalty for order and peace. Now he'd been forced to blow his former

wingmates away, and all because of a superweapon that was, by its very

nature, a tactically useless tool.

According to the rebellion, Alderaan had been destroyed by

Grand Moff Tarkin just to spite a rebel spy. Of course, it was

probably just propaganda, but down deep Taar had to wonder whether or

not anyone could command such power and be able to show restraint. He

wasn't optimistic, especially with Moff Jerjerrod in command. He'd

seen the moff's reaction to Lord Vader, and putting ultimate power in

the hands of a whiny sycophant was like giving an infant a thermal

detonator to play with.

Before he could continue the thought the holograms of other

squadron leaders appeared throughout the room, the fleet flight

coordinator appearing in the center. Taar got his datapad ready as

the briefing began.

"Squadron leaders," the major began, "meet your new enemy."

The rotating image of a cube-shaped object appeared on each table, a

smaller one of a star destroyer alongside it for scale. "They're

called the Borg, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they pose

no threat to the Empire." Taar took notes as the previous battles

involving the Borg were given, the known points of their defenses, and

the reason for the upcoming mission.

"We are going to cross through the wormhole and into Borg

space," the major continued. "Since they have no concept of diplomacy

we plan to annihilate enough ships and planets to show them that

further attacks on the Empire would be a devastating mistake. Any

questions?"

Taar spoke up. "Sir, Interceptors, as the very name implies,

are meant to deal with fighter craft. They cause minimal damage to

corvettes. What possible use do they have against a ship this size?"

The major exhaled in annoyance. "We've determined that

swarming the cubes with fighters will provide a distraction that will

allow our star destroyers to do their work."

Don't say it, Delric. Don't say it, Delric. "So we're flying

targets. Sir." You shouldn't have said it. The major's look of

scorn agreed with that sentiment.

"I think the major was impressed with your tactical

assessments," Lt. Starrunner, squadron leader for Grey Squadron,

remarked after the briefing was over.

"Kriff him," Taar said with disgust. "These guys get taken

out of the pilot seat and suddenly they forget what it's like to have

inches of plexisteel between you and death."

"This is messed up," Starrunner agreed. "You heard how

accurate those Borg can get. They're asking us to basically die when

we can't fight back. And do you think my bombers have a chance of

staying ahead and outmaneuvering these Borg?"

"Not without cover," Taar said. He sighed, then rapped his

datapad on the hull a couple of times. "Lohl," he said finally,

"let's get our squadrons together for some simulations. Maybe there's

a way we can fight back against the Borg after all."

Jean-luc Picard, captain of the Federation flagship,

Enterprise, sighed with impatience as he waited outside the office of

Adm. Parks. After six weeks of separation from my ship you would

think I'd be used to it, he thought gloomily. He wasn't accustomed to

being out of the loop, at least not when it came to the Enterprise.

That Data, Geordi, and his engineering staff were allowed on board was

all the more infuriating, but at least now he could speak to someone

who could give him information, maybe even access to his ship again.

He got to his feet as that someone arrived.

"Apologies for the delay, Jean-luc," Adm. Parks said, shaking

his hand.

"Not at all," Picard lied. "It seems these days time is

something I have plenty of."

Parks laughed as he led Picard into his office. "Yes, there's

a fine line between R&R and boredom, isn't there."

"Exactly," Picard said, hoping this meant the admiral was

going to let him in on what was happening.

Parks took his seat, offering Picard a chair as he did.

"Jean-luc, I know it's not easy being kept in the dark on what goes on

on your own vessel, but believe me, it's in the name of Federation

security."

"Indeed," Picard said neutrally. It seemed to him that a lot

was being done in the name of Federation security lately, and he

wasn't all that pleased with where that was leading. The declaration

of martial law remained a particular sore spot with him, and a

reminder that their society was not as rock-solid as he'd like to

think.

"We have an opportunity to forever change the balance of power

in this quadrant," Parks continued. "A chance to ensure that the

Romulans, the Cardassians, not even the Dominion will be able to

threaten the Federation again."

"A new weapon?"

"An ally," Parks answered. "Someone with resources and

technology that, along with our own strength, will deter practically

any power that might try to wage war on us."

"And you're afraid someone might form a treaty with these

people first," Picard said.

"Not exactly. No one can reach them in any reasonable amount

of time; they exist on the other side of a wormhole that's over

halfway across the galaxy."

Picard was a bit baffled. "I'm not sure I understand. How

helpful can this power be if it would take decades just to reach

them?"

Parks smiled. "Because right now we're the only ones who can

reach them without taking decades." He explained to Picard about

Voyager's encounter with the Borg, the Empire, and the new hyperdrive.

"And this is what you've been doing with the Enterprise all

this time," Picard concluded at the end. "Installing this

hyperdrive."

"Yes," Parks confirmed. "You can see the need for security.

Even without the possibility of an alliance, the ability to deploy our

forces at hundreds of times the speed of our enemies gives us an

incredible advantage. If that technology were stolen, it could be

damning."

"I understand," Picard added. "But there's something I'm not

clear on. If this treaty with the Empire is so important, why did we

not send Voyager? They have a functioning hyperdrive."

"Yes, but that's about all that's functioning. Voyager's been

flying through Borg space for some time; she wasn't in the best shape

when she returned. And besides that, a mission of this importance

requires a captain with a skill for diplomacy, and I think there's no

one better qualified."

With each passing second the frustrations of the previous

weeks was replaced with anticipation as Picard thought of the

magnitude of this mission. A mission of diplomacy to a civilization

that spanned an entire galaxy was beyond the expectations of even the

most fanciful cadets. "When do we leave?" he asked, now all the more

impatient to get back to his ship and begin this historic trip.

"Three days," Parks replied. "The hyperdrive should be

finished tomorrow, which should give your people enough time to

familiarize themselves with the new equipment and prep for the

mission."

"Will Captain Janeway be giving us a briefing?"

"Better. She's re-assigning a member of her crew to act as

your advisor on both the delta quadrant and the Galactic Empire."

"Who?"

"She hasn't decided yet," Parks answered. "She needs someone

who's not only familiar with their technology, but has expertise in

delta quadrant astrometrics and dealings with the Imperials. Finding

someone who fits that bill won't be easy, and giving them up will

probably be even harder."

"Well," Picard said as he rose to his feet, "I'll certainly

look forward to meeting whoever is up to that challenge."

Seven of Nine walked through the door to the captain's ready

room. As always, Capt. Janeway was seated behind her desk, a PADD in

one hand, a mug of coffee in the other. She was nothing if not

predictable. "You wished to see me, captain," Seven stated.

Janeway continued to look at the PADD. "Yes, Seven, please sit

down."

"Unnecessary, I'm comfortable standing."

Janeway put down the PADD. "Yes, of course you are. I forgot,

the Borg even sleep standing."

"Inaccurate. The Borg regenerate, they do not sleep."

Janeway came around and sat on the edge of her desk. "Yes...."

Janeway continued after a brief pause. "Everything is in order, all

damage to the ship has been repaired, and I've finally got my private

dining room back," she added with a slight smile. "Some of the Maquis

officers have asked to transfer to Starfleet, and permission has been

granted for them to remain at their current posts. I've even persuaded

them to keep the Doctor on line as our chief medical officer, although

that took a little convincing."

"I assume you're not updating the ship's status with the

entire crew in this manner."

"No." Janeway had a look of disappointment. "That leaves us

with our two resident civilians. Mr. Neelix has already departed. That

leaves us with you."

Seven breathed a little heavily, then began to speak. "If you

do not wish me to remain on board I will leave. I understand that

circumstances have changed."

Janeway stepped forward and grabbed Seven's hand. "That's not

what I'm saying. You've been an asset to this ship. There's a chance

that we wouldn't be here if it weren't for you. We don't want you to

leave. But it would be selfish of us to force you to remain on board.

We'd be denying you new experiences, a chance to explore your

humanity." Seven was uncharacteristically silent. "Going from life

on Voyager to life on Earth isn't going to be an easy transition,"

Janeway continued. "I think that's obvious to the both of us."

Seven nodded slowly, not looking at her captain. "Adapting

would be... difficult."

"Perhaps it's time for a small step in the right direction."

Janeway turned and picked up the PADD off her desk. "And I think we

have the perfect opportunity for you to take that step. Tell me, are

you familiar at all with the Enterprise?"

CHAPTER V.

"There is something wrong."

It was the voice you hoped to never hear, especially directed

at yourself. It was, on its own intimidating, with its resonant bass

overlaid on that haunting rhythm. The mechanical breathing chilled,

as if a subtle reminder of universal mortality. Yet even then the

voice did nothing to prepare you for the man; two meters of strength

embodied in flesh and machinery. An imposing body that was completed

by an expressionless mask for a face to leave this man all the more

inhuman. Throughout the Empire his reputation was so legendary, so

terrifying, he literally needed no introduction.

Commander Pakkib knew that reputation as well, and ever since

the Dark Lord of the Sith had arrived on the incomplete Death Star he

had felt fear gnawing at his entrails. The personal inspection had

gripped the entire station with similar despair, given that Darth

Vader's disappointment rarely led to anything but death. At the

moment, he sounded too disappointed for Pakkib's liking.

"What's seems to be the problem, my lord," Pakkib managed to

ask. While he knew of nothing wrong, it was obvious contradicting

Vader could only make things worse.

"A tremor in the Force," Vader declared. No one knew if he

was staring at them behind that mask, but no one made any effort to

draw attention to themselves. Commander Pakkib tried to ignore the

beads of sweat that were forming on his forehead with each inhale and

exhale. "I want a complete check of the computer systems," Vader

finally said. "And I want it done manually. Every last bit is to be

analyzed."

"Understood my Lord," Pakkib replied. He swallowed slightly

and continued. "But I must tell you that it will take several

technicians to complete this assignment. It may start putting us

behind." Better to face Lord Vader's wrath now than live in fear of

its approach.

"Perhaps someone else could impel them to remain on schedule."

"No," Pakkib said, perhaps a bit too quickly. "I was just

keeping your lordship appraised. We will remain on schedule."

"Good," Vader implied, but there was no trace of satisfaction.

"I'll expect your report very soon."

The anticipation was now far worse than whatever punishment

the dark lord might offer. Pakkib turned to three of his technicians.

"You are relieved of your current assignment. Your new task is to

carry out Lord Vader's command - any anomalous files are to be

analyzed in detail. This is your top priority." He turned to the

others present. "The rest of you continue. We will remain on

schedule, whatever the cost," he declared. Several hours later,

one of the technicians hailed him on the comm system, his voice

betraying obvious surprise and concern. "Sir," he said, "we've found

what looks like some kind of droid memory file in the main computer."

"What?" Droid memory files are rarely backed up at all, and

definitely wouldn't be stored in an area where it could potentially

access vital systems. Having it on the main computer of a Death Star

was about as bad as it could possibly get. "Erase the file

immediately," he ordered. The technician acknowledged it, but a

second later there was the sound of blaster fire and screaming. The

autodefenses had killed him and the other two members of his team.

Pakkib realized he was wrong; the worst it could possibly be was a

hostile droid with control of the station. Chaos descended as Pakkib

and his men began trying to isolate the rogue program, but apparently

during all this time, the droid mind had been searching for ways to

get around them. Every time they tried to throw up a programming

wall, the droid found a way to bypass it. Every time they tried to

physically remove its connection, they were attacked by the automated

defenses. As the droid continued to assert more and more control

Pakkib began contemplating the only solution: evacuate the station and

overload the reactor. It would be a disaster, but nothing compared to

a rogue Death Star.

"What's the situation?" Vader demanded, causing Pakkib to

visibly jump. Pakkib quickly filled him in. "The main computer is

located in there?" he asked, pointing at the doorway.

Pakkib nodded. "But the defenses have been activated, which

means the laser gate's armed and the computer's shielded, so we can't

shoot it. We'd have to cut the power at the junction but it's

impossible to reach from outside the room.

Vader walked up to the door to examine it. Beyond, he could

see the dead bodies of the other technicians. The lasergate was the

ultimate deterrent. Anything trying to penetrate would be blasted, and

any attempt to destroy the weapons would cause an explosion strong

enough to kill any would be invader. A perfect barrier - for anyone

who wasn't a master of the dark side. The crew looked on in

astonishment as Vader took three steps back, then ran and dove through

the opening. The weapons fired, but the Dark Lord twisted his body to

avoid most of them. One blast did strike just below his right

shoulder, but the beam dissipated with no effect. Vader rolled once

across the floor and into a fighting stance, his lightsaber ignited.

Automatic security devices began firing, and the blade snapped out and

deflected them. One, two, then the third came and he deflected it

right into the junction, causing the shield around the main computer

to collapse. He sprang, cape billowing behind him, lightsaber

continuing to snatch the blaster bolts out of the air until he landed

and stabbed straight through the casing. After that, there was

silence, save for the sizzling sound of broken electronics.

Pakkib was so shocked at what had just happened that it didn't

really register until the dark lord was standing right in front of

him. His awe gave way slowly to fear; he noticed several technicians

jump when the lightsaber was turned off. "Who was responsible for

checking the programming of that computer?" he demanded.

Pakkib hesitated for a moment, while the various parts of his

brain tried to shake themselves loose to dig through the metaphorical

files. "Lt. Teklif, my lord."

Vader turned and looked over the assembled group; they shrank

back as the blank mask passed over them. "You are aware that this

incident will put us even farther behind schedule?" Vader asked.

Pakkib nodded. "Yes," was all he could say.

Immediately, one of the technician's eyes grew wide and he

began grasping at his throat. Those who were nearby began moving away

slowly as his eyes rolled up into his head and he fell to the floor.

Vader turned back to Pakkib, who closed his eyes. At least it would

be relatively quick, if not particularly pleasant. But instead of the

grip on his throat, Vader began to walk away. "Inform your superior

that you will need a new computer." He paused, then turned back. "And

a new technician."

"Admiral," the captain said, and Piett walked over to the comm

station. There were still a few patrols that hadn't reported in yet;

perhaps this was the lead they'd been looking for. Combing through

this galaxy was almost as bad as some areas of the Outer Rim; finding

the worlds of these Borg that had bloodied Thrawn's nose was proving

difficult.

The communications officer spoke up. "Sir, Scoutships are

reporting in from Sector 17. They've found a planet, technology seems

similar to the one our sensors detected."

"More than likely it's our Borg boogeymen," the captain said.

Piett nodded. "And if not, they could probably point us in

the right direction. Alert all commands, converge on those

coordinates." And with that order, the fleet of star destroyers

slipped into hyperspace.

Picard had been waiting in his ready room when she arrived.

He'd been looking over the mission details, and he had to admit that

he was practically as giddy as a fresh graduate taking his first

assignment. The idea of opening diplomatic relations with a

civilization as vast, ancient, and advanced as the Galactic Empire

went beyond even the pipedreams of young cadets. Sure, he wasn't

going to be actually engaged in negotiations -the delegates on board

would handle that- but he'd be the one to get the foot in the door.

When the door chimed he gave his standard "Come!" without even pausing

in thought. But the sight of her was like dropping several tons of

lumber on his mental railroad tracks.

She was dressed in a blue full body suit rather than a

uniform, along with a pair of high-heeled boots. The fact that it

emphasized her highly-attractive figure, however, didn't really

matter. For Picard, it was her face, her hand, the tell-tale signs of

the one and only civilization that used that particular type of

technology. She is, or was, Borg. "Annika Hansen?" he asked in a

voice that said he couldn't imagine the answer to that question being

"Yes."

The woman had been examining the room, more like analyzing

given the way her eyes seemed to dwell on things. "I suppose that was

the name you were provided," she said. "As you are the commanding

officer of this vessel, you may choose to address me by that

designation, though I should warn you that simply using it will not

make me become that person."

Picard was now kicking himself for spending too much time

looking over the mission details and not taking the time to check the

new crewman's file beyond her name... and it seemed that even that

data had been flawed. "What would you prefer?"

"I am Seven of Nine Tertiary Adjunct of Unimatrix Zero One.

But you may call me Seven of Nine."

Picard nodded to himself. The commander of this mission is

the only Starfleet officer to escape assimilation, and he's going to

meet with the Empire immediately after the Borg destroyed one of their

ships, so naturally Janeway would choose to send a Borg as his

advisor. No wonder they didn't want Voyager handling the diplomacy.

"You are a Borg, yes?" he asked, just to be certain.

"I am no longer a member of the collective, I am an

individual," Seven informed him.

"Yes, I can see that," Picard said in a neutral tone. "Then

you must know about me."

"Our thoughts were one for a time, Captain Picard," Seven

said. "But the irrelevant details of your life are not known to me.

Am I too assume that this won't be a hindrance to my assignment?"

"I would never allow my personal feelings to interfere in my

duty." Picard stopped. Why did he say that? That implied there were

some personal feelings involved! "You are familiar with the Empire?"

"Yes, captain," Seven said. "I was involved in most of our

direct meetings and have first-hand experience with their technology.

I have also been briefed on the experiences of others."

"Good, we'll need you to avoid any missteps. I don't think I

have to tell you how important this meeting will be for us. The

Empire could be a powerful friend, or a lethal enemy."

"Agreed," Seven said. "I will ensure that you are adequately

advised in all circumstances."

Picard nodded slowly. "Your quarters have already been

assigned. Do you have any special needs we should be aware of?"

"Yes," Seven said. "I assume I will be provided standard

quarters. The bed can be removed; I do not require sleep. I will,

however, require a power conduit be adapted to interface with my

systems."

"You need an alcove, is that what you're saying?"

"Yes, captain." She noticed the tone in his voice. "Is that

a problem captain?"

"So long as you don't go assimilating our ship, no," he said,

then mentally kicked himself for the remark. That's twice she's

gotten under your skin, Jean-luc, he thought. And it's not her doing

it, it's you! "Inform Commander Riker, he'll make the arrangements.

If there's nothing else..."

"No, sir."

"Dismissed." Seven nodded and left. Picard dropped the PADD

on the desk. How was he going to open diplomatic relations with

another galaxy if he couldn't get along with his own crewmen?

The Executor and the rest of its fleet exited hyperspace; five

Borg cubes waited for them. They weren't the first they'd

encountered, but it was the first time that the Borg would be on the

receiving end, and the first time Piett had a speech of his own.

"Transmission coming in, sir," the communication officer said. Piett

nodded and it came over the speaker, thousands speaking a single

chant.

"We are the Borg. Lower your shields and surrender your

ships. We will add your..."

"That's enough," Piett said, and the transmission was cut off.

"Ready our reply." He waited until the officer nodded. "This is

Admiral Piett of the Galactic Empire. You have violated our space and

repeatedly attacked our ships without provocation. This will not be

tolerated." He turned to the captain. "Alert all commands, engage

and destroy."

As the fleet closed in on the Borg world, the cubes rushed to

engage them. As before, despite their adaptations, the turbolaser

blasts tore massive holes in their ships. Still, the Collective

seemed to press on despite the obvious damage, like an animal that had

become so rabid it wouldn't stop attacking even if it was being killed

by the defender. However, the Borg weren't animals, they were logical

and unemotional, so they ignored the damage and instead concentrated

their attacks on a single star destroyer. Despite the heavy damage

they managed to batter the ship's shields down. They bombarded the

ship with bluish-green bombs, which seemed to act as a kind of ion

blast. The star destroyer's weapons were becoming less and less

effective as the seconds passed.

But outnumbered and outgunned, the cubes couldn't stand up to

the rest of the fleet. The last of the cubes was reduced to

fragments. "Report," Piett ordered.

"All ships are reporting no damage, sir," the captain said.

"Except the Tyrant. Captain Lennox reports that the damage to many of

their systems is serious; they'll need to return to the station to

make repairs."

Piett nodded. "Send them to Base One. Once the ship's

functional, I want it back here with the fleet." The captain nodded

and passed the message along. As the Tyrant limped off, the rest of

the fleet closed in on the planet. "We'll show these Borg whose

resistance is futile." The Imperial fleet bombarded the planet; the

Borg offered no resistance. Within minutes every square meter of the

crust had been reduced to smoking craters.

Picard exited his ready room. "I assume we're ready, Number

One?" he asked.

"Ready as we'll ever be, sir," Riker said. "Mr. LaForge says

all systems are go."

"Helm, take us out of Spacedock; let's see what this engine

can do." He took his seat; Riker was on his right as usual, while

Seven had been provided the one normally allotted to Counselor Troi

for the purpose of the mission. He watched as the doorway opened to

allow the massive Sovereign-class ship to exit. "The anticipation is

unnerving," he confessed to Riker.

"I feel a bit like Zephram Cochrane," Riker admitted. "Brand

new propulsion system, first contact."

"Except we're not first, Will," Picard reminded him. "We're

just making this trip. Everyone knows Armstrong and Aldrin were

first, who remembers the second?"

"Peter Conrad and Alan Bean, sir," Data said.

Picard turned to him. "Thank you, Mr. Data," he said.

Data nodded. "In ten seconds we will be far enough outside

the Earth's gravity well to engage the hyperdrive, captain."

"And we'll see if it's everything we've been told it'd be."

"The technology is effective," Seven informed him.

"I'm sure it is," Picard replied. "On my mark, helm...

engage." And with that the stars began to lengthen and twist into

starlines, and suddenly, they were gone.

CHAPTER VI.

Even after six days, Picard still couldn't get over the eerie

feeling he had whenever he looked out the window of the Enterprise.

Instead of the familiar streak of stars, there was an unnatural flow

of...something. He didn't know how to describe it; hyperspace is what

Seven of Nine called it. Whatever it was, it felt wrong. Still, that

was the price that came from crossing the galaxy at such fantastic

speeds, and if a journey of decades can be reduced to days, Picard

conceded hyperspace could look as ugly as it liked.

Lt. Commander Data's voice brought him back to the present.

"We'll be approaching the wormhole in fifteen seconds, captain."

Picard acknowledged, and waited, then on Data's order helm shut down

the hyperdrive, and hyperspace turned to starlines, then collapsed

back into the familiar view of real space, fifty thousand light-years

now behind them.... and one very massive object in front of them.

"All stop." Picard ordered. "What is that?"

"It appears to be some kind of space station sir," Data

informed him. "Although I am not familiar with any of its design

patterns."

Seven of Nine turned to the captain. "It's similar in size and

appearance to the Imperial station where Voyager was repaired. It's

likely the Empire constructed it to guard the passage to the wormhole

from future Borg attacks."

"Captain," Data continued, "I'm also detecting a vessel, 1.6

kilometers in length."

Riker turned to Picard. "Big ship."

"It is an Imperator-class Star Destroyer," Seven of Nine

informed him. "We encountered three such ships when we first made

contact."

"Star...Destroyer?" Picard asked hoping that wasn't meant to

be taken literally.

"Merely its designation captain. Its weapons output is

insufficient to destroy a solar body."

Picard acknowledged and turned to Lt. Thomas McClure. "Use the

modifications to the deflector you were given. Open a channel."

McClure gave Picard a nod. "This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the

USS Enterprise. I'm here on behalf of the United Federation of

Planets. Is this the Galactic Empire?"

Finally, there was a response. "This is Commander Crovix.

State your business Enterprise."

"Not exactly friendly," Riker commented.

"But understandable under the circumstances, Number One,"

Picard replied. "Open the channel again." McClure did so. "We are

here to open negotiations with the Empire. We wish to use the

wormhole to travel to meet with your leaders."

"Stand by Enterprise," was their only response.

"Captain," Lt. Travis spoke, "a ship -possibly a shuttle- has

left the station and is heading for the wormhole."

"No doubt to check with their superiors on the other side,"

Picard noted.

Data turned to Picard. "Captain, sensors indicate familiar

energy signatures coming from the Star Destroyer. The energy

signatures are consistent with those left behind by Borg weaponry."

Picard turned to Seven of Nine. "Could this have been one of

the vessels that battled the Borg when Voyager was here?"

"Possibly," Seven admitted. With that, she got up and strode

towards the viewer. "Focus on the ship and magnify by a factor of 27,"

she ordered.

Data looked to Picard, who nodded. A close up view of the

plate revealed a very faint pattern on the ships hull.

"This is not the same ship," Seven stated. "The markings on

the hull are not the same."

"It seems that the Empire has had more run-ins with the Borg,"

Picard said. "Data, any similar signs of damage to the station?"

"No, sir. It would seem that this was not a defensive

battle."

"Which leads us to only one conclusion," Picard said. "This

station isn't the front line of defense, it's their fallback point.

They've come to fight the Borg."

"Who seeks out the Borg?" Riker asked. "It's bad enough when

they come to you, why go looking for them?"

"That certainly is a good question, Number One. One I hope to

find an answer to."

Before the discussion could continue a communication came in

from the station. "Permission has been granted to enter the wormhole.

Once you pass through, you are to rendezvous with the Star Destroyer

Incaciad."

"That is the command vessel of Admiral Thrawn," Seven informed

the captain, taking her seat.

"Janeway's savior," Picard said. "Acknowledge the

transmission. Set course for the wormhole half impulse. Engage."

And with that, the Enterprise proceeded to the wormhole, and

disappeared from the galaxy.

"Attention! Borg ships approaching. Prep all TIEs for

immeditate launch."

Delric Taar blocked out the redundant commands echoing

throughout the hangar and headed for his ship. The launch crews had

been on constant alert, and Taar knew his interceptor would already be

set for launch as soon as he reached it. He checked the rest of his

squadron before sealing the hatch, then fired the twin ion engines and

roared out into space, his squadron close behind. They slipped into

formation, Taar taking the point while his wingman slipped into his

eight. As they swept around, he counted no less than seven Borg

cubes. Numbers were still on the Empire's side, but the Borg had a

knack for bringing something new to the party; apparently Piett had

decided it was time to do the same.

"Grey leader this is Ebony leader," Taar said. It was time to

put theory into practice, and hope they didn't kill themselves during

the experiment. "We're going to cross the tee on cube three port."

"Acknowledged," was the response from Lt. Starrunner. As the

TIEs approached the cube, their ranks broke, shifting to a four-point

diamond pattern. Ebony 1 took the point of the lead formation,

leading the way towards the right-hand side of the Cube. At a

kilometer out the fomations broke away from one another, looking for

targets of opportunity. The ships began taking random dips and slides

as they approached, trying to reach that age-old balance of being

evasive while staying on target. "Prime target located," Grey 3 said

as the coordinates were sent to his targeting computer. The small

formation made a slight course change and continued - Ebony 1 still in

the lead with Grey 3 at the rear of the formation. It was a risky

situation; the Interceptors were only flying at a fraction of their

top speed at the moment to allow him to keep in formation. But it was

the best plan he had for the moment.

The cube loomed through the transparisteel window at the front

of his TIE. This is nuts, he thought to himself. You don't go after

blockade runners with Interceptors, nevermind something like this! "I

have a visual on the target," Taar said aloud. It seemed to be a

weapons array of some kind. They raced towards it, then on cue, the

two TIEs on his eight and four moved accelerated forward, guns

blazing. Their laser cannons splashed across the surface of the

array, but there was little to show for it. The Borg fired back,

narrowly missing Ebony 2. It had been random luck that he'd survived,

but turning back wasn't an option, so they continued to fire at the

array for all the good it seemed to do.

"Break formation!" Taar ordered, and the three ships split off

from one another. Grey 3, now with a clear shot at the weakened

structure, launched three concussion missiles before pulling away. The

missiles slammed into their target, vaporizing it.

"Ebony 2 and 3, form up," Taar ordered. "Grey 3 strafing run,

we'll cover." The others acknowledged as he swung away from the cube

for the moment. Beyond it he saw the Avenger and Devastator advancing

on the Borg's right flank. Turbolasers and Borg energy beams

crisscrossed space, putting their puny fighter attacks to shame. Did

I say this was nuts? he thought. I mean this is pointless! It's not

like the Empire isn't going to win this fight regardless of the

fighters, why did Piett tip their hand?! But it didn't fall to grunts

like him to make those calls, so instead he executed a tight spin to

join in on this suicide run.

The diamond formation quickly formed up and raced over the

surface of the cube at a mere fifteen meters. The three Interceptors

tried providing cover fire for the Grey 3, who was pelting the surface

with proton bombs. Half-way across the cube he pushed them to full

throttle, leaving the bomber behind but hopefully providing more of a

distraction by firing at targets of opportunity. But one problem with

the Borg was they just didn't take to distractions, and a green

torpedo rose up from the surface and hit the bomber, sending the two

pods spiral away and crashing into the surface of the cube. "Pull

up!" Taar ordered, but this time an energy beam came up and caught

Ebony 2, disintegrating it. Adrenal flooding his veins, Taar put the

ship into a Korvel Spiral as he raced away, torpedoes filling the air

around him. Finally he pulled clear and formed up with Ebony 3.

"Ebony Leader to Grey Leader, we've lost our bomber." The command was

acknowledged, but apparently things hadn't been going well for

Starrunner's boys. As Taar brought the ship around he saw that the

Borg were laying into the Avenger and Devastator, much like they had

against the Tyrant. Taar's stomach tightened at the sight. The Borg

didn't care how much damage they suffered so long as they continued to

wear the Empire down. They could lose ten ships for every one they

destroyed, and it wouldn't matter. How do you fight someone like

that?

"Grey Leader to Ebony Leader, head to point 03." Taar pulled

him and his wingmate around to return to their cube, joining up with

another set of TIEs to provide cover for the next bombing run. The

new formation -five Interceptors and two bombers- once again skimmed

the surface, weapons lashing out at the cube. Again, as if out of no

where, weapons fire struck at the tiny ships, vaporizing two TIEs

instantly. To avoid being struck by the weapons and debris, Taar

pulled a split-S, pulling away from the cube momentarily before his

spin brought him back thirty meters behind his bombers, who continued

their strafing of the cube despite the attack. Taar planned to

increase speed and overshoot the bombers to provide further cover when

he passed over one of the craters formed by a proton bomb. Taar

frowned at the information his targeting sensors were telling him.

"Ebony 3 do you see what I see?" he called over the comm.

"Yes sir," ES-13-3 replied. "What do you want to do?"

Ebony 1 pulled into a tight loop and began heading for the

crater. "Put some plasma up their collective port," he told him as he

opened fire on the crater. The weapons' fire managed to destroy the

unshielded bottom of the crater, opening up a passage into the heart

of the cube. Throttling back, the two TIEs dove into the entrance to

the Borg ship, firing at their unshielded surfaces. The cubes may

have had the power to adapt to their laser cannons, but the raw power

was too much for the helpless drones inside.

After about seven hundred meters the two TIEs blasted their

way into a large opening inside the cube. In the center of this space

was a large, hour-glass shaped structure with several openings along

its sides. Taar looked at his instruments. "What do you think Ebony

3?"

"Looks like a target to me, sir," ES-13-3 called back to him

over the comm.

Taar smiled inside his pressure suit. "Agreed. Fire at will."

The two Interceptors continued their approach, their weapons blowing

away huge chunks out of the shape. Manueverability was difficult, even

at low speeds in this confined area. Finally, their weapons sheared

through the construct and Taar watched the huge structure collapse in

on itself. Immediately, explosions began occurring throughout the

cube. The two TIEs turned to continue their volley, when a nearby

explosion knocked Ebony 3 off course and into the wall, exploding on

contact. Figuring he'd done enough damage in here, Taar headed for

the opening to go back to the surface. The series of explosions were

getting worse, and he started pushing the ship faster and faster. This

proved to be a near fatal mistake as the passage suddenly narrowed

ahead. Quickly he twisted his ship on its side and dove into the

opening, his lower port solar panel scraping the edge of the passage.

It seems that even during that short battle, the Borg had managed to

repair some of their ship. Alarms were sounding and in desperation he

pushed the ship to full throttle and hoped like hell he'd get out

before the TIE or the cube blew.

Finally he rocketed out of the cube and launched back out into

space. Looking back, he saw explosions consuming various parts of the

cubes, and TIEs pulling away from its surface. A stardestroyer, the

Stalker actually, was finishing it off with a full barrage of

turbolaser fire. Moments after he had escaped, the cube exploded. A

single piece of debris, just a meter or so long, struck his TIE,

completely searing the struts that held it to the starboard solar

panels. The ship had been on its last legs before, now it was

completely out of control. The Interceptor wouldn't respond to his

controls and an energy surge was arcing through some of the panels.

Systems were failing, and in an act of desperation he tried to shut

down the engines. As he touched the panel, a surge of energy passed

through his pressurized suit and into his arm, flooding his body with

pain as he seized up. His eyes glazed over, and the universe, dark as

it was, became black.

War has been described as long periods of boredom interrupted

by short periods of excitement. At the moment, Picard felt that peace

didn't seem that different. After all the time he'd spent waiting for

his ship, and then all the time prepping for this meeting, the

ambassadors had taken over, and he was left twiddling his thumbs at an

Imperial station. It was the dawn of a new age, perhaps the most

exciting time for humanity since the discovery that we weren't alone

in the universe. At the moment, Picard felt like he was stuck in a

hole with his sensors off-line.

Picard had been lamenting the situation with Riker when the

door chimed. It was Seven; it seemed to always be Seven. She wasn't

a Borg, not really, but nevertheless, he had trouble letting his guard

down around her, despite how much advice she'd provided throughout the

mission. Maybe I've become set in my ways, he wondered. I can't

stand hyperspace, I can't stand my advisor, maybe this new age isn't

for old men like me. "Yes?" he asked, trying to sound neutral and

failing.

"Admiral Thrawn has asked me to deliver a proposition to you,"

Seven informed the captain in the matter-of-fact way she had. "He

suggests that, to help bridge the gap between our civilizations, we

have an exchange of cultural history."

"What exactly does he mean by that?" Riker asked. Riker had

been spending the time scanning comm channels, and the longer they

were delayed, the more he became suspicious of the Empire. Perhaps he

wasn't ready for this new age either, Picard thought.

Seven looked at the PADD. "'Poetry, art, important historical

events, literature' were the specific examples he gave."

Picard nodded; this was exactly what he needed. "Extend the

admiral our thanks, and begin assembling a historical/cultural

database to give to the Imperials."

"Are you sure that's wise, sir?" Riker asked. "We really

shouldn't be exchanging any information with them while the

negotiations take place."

Picard smiled slightly. "I'm not giving them the access codes

for Starfleet Command, Will. An exchange of culture would be a healthy

way to start this meeting, not to mention give us a chance to get to

know the Empire a little better."

"Honestly, sir, I think I'm getting to know them quite well."

"Will, there's healthy skepticism, and there's paranoia. I'm

sure there's nothing to fear in letting Admiral Thrawn examine our

works of art."

On board the Redemption. Mon Mothma stepped up to the central

platform. The high-ranking members of the Alliance were present; they

knew only that something urgent had come in, and rumors were it wasn't

good. From her grave tone, it seemed that would prove to be true.

"We've all been wondering what is going on lately, why the Emperor has

diverted ships and changed his personal agenda so much over the past

two months. We now have an answer." A hologram of a section of the

galaxy appeared, focusing in on one particular area until the whole

sector was revealed. "Located near the Napuli System is a wormhole to

another galaxy. The wormhole was discovered when ships from the other

side invaded our galaxy."

A small murmur of discussion began. Mon Mothma had to speak

up in order to be heard. "One is an antagonistic race called the Borg,

who attacked and destroyed one of the Star Destroyers in that area."

"I take it that's not the good news we'd like to think it is,"

Lando said.

"No. The data our spies have gathered shows that they will

attack anyone without provocation. They're extremely dangerous to

everyone, regardless of what side they're on."

"Dangerous enough that we should be worried?" Leia asked. "Is

there a chance that they'd destroy the Empire and threaten all of us?"

"It's not likely," Mon Mothma said.

"Will we help the Empire, if the situation comes down to it?"

Leia asked.

Mon Mothma hesitated. "Let's hope we won't have to make that

choice."

"Well, regardless of whose side they're on, at least it's

something to keep the Empire busy," Han pointed out.

"Yes," Mon Mothma replied, "and it's doing just that. The

Empire has sent a fleet in to deal with the Borg threat, and greater

security has been set up in that area of the galaxy."

"You said 'one,'" Wedge said. "I take it the Borg weren't

alone.

"No," Mon Mothma said. "The Empire has had some dealings with

another group from the other side of the wormhole. They have already

given information and technology to the Empire, and our spies indicate

they are planning on opening diplomatic relations with the Empire."

Leia finally spoke up. "What exactly is the position of this

group?" she asked. "What do they want in return for their aide?"

"From what our sources have gathered, an alliance," Mon Mothma

answered. The members of the Alliance looked at one another. The

Empire alone was bad enough. If they had new allies, allies with new

technology, then it was grim news for the struggling rebellion. "It

seems that we have a new enemy," she said, "and it's called the

Federation."

CHAPTER VII.

Taar opened his eyes slowly. There was a white blur in front

of him, slowly solidifying as the seconds ticked by until shapes

emerged. Finally, his vision seemed to clear up and he checked at his

arm. Yes, it was still there. Good. As advanced as cybernetics was,

he'd heard about more than one pilot who just couldn't handle a craft

the same again. There's something about the feel of a ship that can't

be duplicated by a piece of technology.

Taar gave the room the once over. The medlab didn't look like

the one on the Stalker; was he on the Executor? Before he could think

more about it the door opened; it was an aide rather than a medical

droid. This likely meant things were about to get worse. "Good

morning," the aide said as amicably as possible. "Glad to see that

you've returned to consciousness; we've got some matters to clear up.

It won't take but a moment." He pulled out datapad. "First, your suit

was completely overloaded, so we don't even have a name for you."

Taar winced slightly as he started to sit up. "Lt. Delric

Taar, ES-13-1 stationed on board the star destroyer Stalker."

The aide nodded slightly, "A squadron commander... good for

you."

Whatever, Taar thought. Save your condescension for someone

else. "What's the status of Ebony Squadron? How many survivors?"

"I'm asking the questions," the aide said sharply. "You can

check their status later, lieutenant." He paused briefly and then

continued. "I assume you were forced to abandon your craft?"

"Yes, there was-" Taar paused. So much had happened so fast.

"The cube exploded, the debris hit my craft. I was lucky to get out

alive."

"Mm," the aid responded with the expected degree of sympathy.

"Yes, well, everything seems to be in order," the aide concluded. It

was, after all, just a TIE; the Empire lost a few every day. If Taar

had lost a shuttle it would have involved an accident investigation,

but this drew little more than a glance. "The med-droid says you'll

be fit for duty the day after tomorrow. You'll have your orders then."

Then he turned and strode out.

With effort, Taar pulled himself up, silently cursing all

bureaucrats everywhere. "I'm asking the questions," he thought, and

it comes down to name and why his ship went kabloowie. Tiny men in

the grand scheme who push around bits in a datapad; just let me fly my

ship and lead my men and I'll do whatever you want. He searched

around until he found his code cylinder and plugged into the network.

With a slight note of surprise, he saw that he was on Base One, not

the Executor. They must have evacuated some of the wounded to save

space. He went on to check what information there was about the latest

battle with the Borg. It didn't paint a pretty picture. It had been

a victory, of course, but they'd lost the Devastator. This was a big

setback, even though it wasn't readily apparent. Not only had that

left the Imperial forces weaker, it also meant the Borg could win

battles due to sheer attrition. The Emperor's plan wasn't working;

the Borg weren't backing off, they were testing the Empire's limits.

They were planning something... he just hoped the admiral was capable

enough to see that and call in some reinforcements.

Taar's stomach tightened into a knot as he looked at the

fighter results. Only three of the pilots from Ebony squadron

survived, himself included. Starrunner and his boys had been

completely wiped out as well. At least they hadn't died for nothing;

the stats showed that weapons fire from the cubes Ebony and Grey

squadrons had attacked dropped by 38%. It was good from a tactical

standpoint, but losing so many of his men made it a bitter pill to

swallow.

Taar disconnected from the network and tried to sleep. He was

exhausted, but sleep didn't come easy. His mind was filled with

images of Borg drones being cut down by his laser cannons and of that

cube exploding from the inside out. He wanted to do that again... he

wanted to fly in there and blow the living crap out of them, like

pouring gasoline down an anthill and lighting a match. He forced

himself to put his thoughts aside and rest. Only if he properly

recovered would he get the chance to relive that vision.

The Emperor opened his eyes and watched Mara Jade continuing

her exercises. At the moment she was trying to move multiple objects

with her mind. Her frustration with her failure was obvious. "Good,"

he said, causing her to jerk slightly at his sudden comment. "Anger

is a source of power. Reach in and harness it, feel the hate flowing

through you, empowering you!" Mara nodded and went at it again with

renewed vigor. Soon objects were swirling around the throne room like

a whirlwind. They dropped when the Emperor's haunting chuckle reached

her ears. "Good, very good. You're learning well, my young

apprentice." He paused as the door opened and Darth Vader appeared.

Vader's walk slowed as he approached the throne, noting Mara's

presence. There was an undercurrent of mutual hate. "Leave us," the

Emperor told the girl, and she nodded and walked out. Vader stepped

before the Emperor and kneeled, rising only when he was told to.

"I sense something is troubling you, my friend," the Emperor

said.

"Yes, master." Vader paused. "'And there shall forever be no

more than two, one the master, and one his student, lest the way of

the Sith be lost forever.'" Vader said, quoting the words of Darth

Bane that had ensured the survival of the Sith for millennia. "Have

we given up on old ways?"

"Yes, we have," the Emperor said matter-of-factly. "No longer

do we lurk in the shadows, fearing the Jedi. I felt the disturbance

when that little green imp died; and with him dies the ways of the

Jedi. We are the only ones now who have the power of the Force, and

it is time we used it to the fullest."

"And so you train this one?" Vader asked. "She is nothing

more than a convenient spy-"

"I will decide who I will train," the Emperor said sharply. "I

train her as I will the young Skywalker. That was, after all, your

suggestion, Lord Vader." The Emperor gave a moment to reflect on that

fact. "I have foreseen her, Vader, leading our forces against our

enemies, with your son at her side."

"So he will join us."

"Oh yes. The details are difficult to see, but he will

embrace the power of the dark side."

"Forgive my doubt, my master," Vader said with a nod of

respect.

The Emperor nodded in return. "What is the status of the

Death Star?"

"It will be finished within the next ninety days, my master."

"I see it's not on schedule."

"No, the men have been suitably disciplined."

The Emperor's throne rotated slightly. "It is of no

consequence. It will serve its purpose when needed. I have summoned

you for an entirely different reason." Vader waited patiently, his

mechanical breathing the only sound filling the chamber. "I have

nearly completed negotiations with diplomats from the Federation, a

puny civilization in the galaxy beyond the wormhole. You will travel

with the diplomatic corps that returns to their homeworld."

"Why should we be concerned with this insignificant group?"

Vader asked.

"Because, the Federation is our foothold, Lord Vader. Through

them, we will seize control of their entire galaxy."

The Lambda-class shuttle slipped into hyperspace as Lt. Taar

moved into the cockpit of the small craft. He was the only passenger

on board the tiny shuttle, just him and a hold full of technical

equipment sent out to rendezvous with the fleet on the front line.

Taar wondered what was happening out there. The last engagement had

been the one he'd been in, just under a week ago. The Borg had

actually bloodied the Empire's nose that time, it should have only

strengthened their resolve... if Borg could have resolve, that is.

Instead they'd pulled back, left their worlds undefended. No, they

were up to something, and he didn't think he was going to like it when

he found it.

"So, why are you being sent off to Borg central?" the pilot

asked in an off the cuff way.

Taar looked him over for a moment before replying. "I'm

rendezvousing with my star destroyer. I was sent back to Base One to

get stitched up after the last engagement."

"Ah, let me guess, TIE pilot, right?"

"That's right," Taar said with disinterest.

The man gave a low whistle. "You know, they got two

categories for TIE fighter pilots: rookies, and frozen meat."

"Right," was Taar's only reply as he tried to ignore the

pilot. He didn't seem to take the hint.

"Happiest day of my life was when I was assigned to

transports," the pilot said with a grin. "The Imperial meat grinder

is not the place for me, no thank you

 

[Insein]

I can't imagine that Disney is really going to put much stock in any of the fanboy writing that exists outside of the films or Clone Wars cartoons. That stuff is nonexistent for the general public.

If by fanboy writing you mean officially licensed content that extended the storyline and has sold billions of dollars worth of books, then yea I think they will give it a thought.

No. I've read a fair amount of it and I'm pretty sure that most of the Star Wars movie-seeing public has no idea about that stuff and that Disney would be foolish to bow to any of it. There's not much stock to be put in "officially licensed content" from George Lucas. There isn't anything he wouldn't license, regardless of quality.

Considering that its well received by fans already and has sold billions of copies, I would think that they would have some interest in that content. Movie goers will watch what you put in front of them as seen with Tranformers and Twilight. Take any plot from the EU, give it a competent director and slap the name Star Wars on it and you have a box office boom.

 

[netnalp]

Is that Star Trek universe meets Star Wars? Isn't that like crossing the streams?

 

[Dr. Awesome]

Possible script. I have been working on this for quite awhile. hope you all enjoy.WORLDS WITHOUT END REDUXAct ICHAPTER I.In the endless void between the stars the mile-long form of astarship moved silently, its chalk-white surface in perfect contrastwith the infinite night. The almost casual motion of this ship andits two escorts was quietly observed. Star Destroyers, a powerfulfront-line ship for the Galactic Empire, and a source of terror acrossits territory. The recent arms race with the guerrilla movement tooverthrow their leadership had continued to push their weaponstechnology further. It is this short time right now when that Empirewould be at its strongest, when they have their most advancedtechnologies and an intact chain of command."Yes," said a voice with satisfaction, unconcerned with suchphysical limitations on sound in a vacuum. "This will do nicely."When those words were spoken, a change took place that was tobe felt across the universe. In some parts of the galaxy, somespecial individuals noticed inexplicable feelings of uncertainty anddread. For the two remaining masters of the Force, each the polaropposite of his counterpart, it produced a disturbance unlike any theyhad ever experienced in their long lives. And while these two werewont to agree on anything, both could sense the potential doom thathad come into being.On the other side of the universe a hopelessly mismatchedbattle was about to come to its inevitable conclusion. One was theFederation Starship Voyager, which has been cut off from its peoplefor over five years. Its opponent was a gigantic ship belonging tothe Federation's greatest enemy: the Borg. Unlike Voyager, it washeavily-armed and effectively shielded, and there was no doubt whowould be the victor. But as it happened, this single battle betweentwo rather insignificant ships was in fact the most important one inall of history, although neither side knew it."Any signs of other vessels in the vicinity," asked CaptainKathryn Janeway, commander of Voyager."Negative, captain," Ens. Kim replied. "No other vessels inrange of our sensors."The ship rocked under the impact of another Borg weapon."Direct hit, Deck 12," reported Lt. Tuvok at Tactical.Janeway's first officer, Comm. Chakotay, stepped to her side.In all crises he was her closest advisor. Unfortunately, there waslittle to offer under the present circumstances. "Maybe there'ssomewhere we can hide," he offered, "at least for a little while. Giveus a chance to patch the ship together."The ship was struck again, and below in Astrometrics, Seven ofNine was hastily examining their sensor readings. The fact that shewas a Borg herself was only relevant in that she knew what she wasfighting to escape. If there was any irony in her mind being pittedagainst the hive collective that had trained her it was lost on her."Anything that can provide some cover?" Janeway asked over the comm."Nothing yet, captain," Seven replied, her voice even despitethe anxiousness of the moment. Seven was not one to panic, regardlessof the situation. She was adjusting the long-range sensors in thevain hope of finding something when her console began to beep for herattention. She tapped the panel and her brow furrowed in momentaryconfusion. "Captain," she said, "Sensors have picked up what appearsto be a wormhole less than five hundred thousand kilometers fromhere."The ship shuddered again, and Seven could feel the explosivedecompression despite the room's seal. They wouldn't last muchlonger. "How the hell did we miss that?" Janeway asked. "It'spractically on our doorstep.""I'm not sure," Seven said, looking at the readings. "But itis a wormhole." She continued tapping the panel as she analyzed thereadings. "Stable, but I have no idea where it leads." Seven'sstomach twisted as the inertial dampeners failed for a fraction of asecond. She passed the coordinates on to Navigation."Away from here, and that's good enough for me," Janeway said."Alter course, Mr. Paris."Voyager turned tightly, and the cube altered direction topursue. Not long after, space opened up and swallowed both of themwithout a trace.Standing on the main deck of the Star Destroyer Incaciad,Admiral Thrawn gazed at the space beyond. His crew was far too busyensuring the smooth running of the ship to pay much attention, andeven less time to wonder what he might be looking at, or thinkingabout. It was a pointless exercise anyway; few could understand allthat went on behind those alien eyes, and yes he was alien. Hisascent to his current rank did nothing to change that fact in theminds of the Imperial Navy, although it mattered little to those underhis command. Whatever feelings they might have for non-humans weresuspended for the grand admiral, and newcomers to the ship werequickly educated in that fact by his crew. It takes extraordinaryeffort to overcome a prejudice; but then, there was nothing ordinaryabout Thrawn.As it happened, he was thinking about the future, and how thegalaxy was going to change soon. The Empire was constructing a secondDeath Star at Endor, supposedly more powerful than the first. Ratherredundant in Thrawn's estimation; a planet-destroying weapon's onlyreal benefit was in overwhelming planetary shields, which the firstDeath Star was quite capable of doing. Even then, in practicalmilitary terms it wasn't a terribly effective weapon. Perhaps toeliminate the center of your enemies' leadership or to terrify apopulace into surrender, but what good, in the end, was blowing up aplanet you want to conquer? The Death Star was useful, but the extraeffort was a bit of a waste in Thrawn's estimation.According to the secret communication, the Death Star'sconstruction was behind, and Darth Vader and the Emperor would overseethe final stages of construction in person. Yes, the Emperor wasleaving the impenetrable security of Coruscant to personally observethe construction of an inoperable and defenseless battlestation.Seemed rather obvious a trap, but the Rebels had been sufferingseveral setbacks, and the Emperor's rather obvious trap did have aparticularly attractive piece of bait. He considered who might becommanding the Imperial forces; probably Piett. Not a bad commander,but not a very brilliant tactician either.Thrawn was just considering some attack scenarios, were he incharge, when he heard one of the crewmen speaking to Captain Jarrol."Sir, two ships have appeared on our scope."Thrawn turned around and looked down towards the young man.There was almost a sense of casualness about the way he acted. "Out ofhyperspace?""No sir," the crewman quickly responded to Thrawn, "they justappeared out of nowhere.""Indeed," replied Thrawn, still nonplused. "Let's have alook," he said as he stepped towards the control station. He didn'twaste time telling the crew to raise the shields; they knew what heexpected of them. He examined the ships for several seconds. Theywere clearly alien, and they didn't share any similar designs. Thesmaller ship was visibly damaged, but if the larger cube-shaped vesselwas responsible, it showed no interest in making the kill just yet."Admiral," Jarrol said, returning from a quick discussion withhis deck officer, "we have an intruder on board. Engineering.""I assume you're not referring to a rebel spy.""No," Jarrol said. "According to witnesses it appeared out ofthin air.""'It?'" Thrawn replied. Jarrol offered him the datapad andThrawn looked at the intruder. Mechanical components, but obviously aliving thing. "A cyborg," he said quietly."It made no threatening motions," Jarrol continued. "But whenit didn't heed instructions it was shot. They're taking it to theinfirmary to study it."Thrawn looked up from the datapad to the two ships beyond thewindows. "So," he asked no one in particular, "which one did you comefrom?""Sir, we're receiving a hail from the cubical vessel," anofficer reported. The sudden voice was chilling, as if a millionvoices were speaking as one in some horrible chant. "We are the Borg.We have analyzed your defensive capabilities and judged them to beinadequate. Lower your shields and surrender your ships. We will addyour distinctiveness to our own. You will adapt to service us.Resistance is futile."On board the battered remains of Voyager, Captain Janeway rosefrom her chair. "Hail them again."Lt. Tuvok sent the message, but... "No response.""Captain," Harry Kim said anxiously, "the Borg have beamedover to the alien ship, the center one.""How many drones?""One." Ens. Kim checks his instruments. "They must have beamedover while their shields were still down."Janeway turned to her first officer, unable to hide herconfusion. "Why would they not answer our hails? If they werehostile, why haven't they fired? If they're peaceful, why ignore us?""Perhaps their communication technology is incompatible with ours," heoffered."We did receive energy readings earlier which may have been acommunication device," Tuvok informed them.Janeway turned, her hand stroking her chin. Finally shewalked towards the turbolift with a quick gait. "Analyze thosesignals, see if you can communicate with them. I'll be in engineering- we still have a ship to put back together."Thrawn watched the Cube advance. It was certainly big, butthere was no visible sign of any armored defenses, a rather oddconstruction given the appearance of the cyborg below. "Flank them,"Thrawn ordered, and the Kartinian and Lucinda advanced on the Cubewhile the Incaciad moved into position. "Have the fighter crewsstanding by," he ordered, "but don't launch until my order.""Commander," Tuvok said, "the energy signal the Borg sentearlier was similar in nature to the one we received from the alienvessels. It might be their method of communication.""Look at modifying our communications equipment to broadcastusing those signals," Chakotay said. "Whatever their intentions,we've got to warn them before the Borg try something.""Looks like we're too late for that," Tom Paris, Voyager'spilot, said as Chakotay's attention returned to the screen. "It'sheading right for them."Chakotay took a deep breath. "Let's hope they learn quickly,"he said quietly."Use the Ion Cannons," Thrawn said, his voice with a steeledge to it. "Perhaps we can take it intact."Silvery-blue beams launched from the three star destroyers,washing over the Cube's surface. It was clear that they were strikingthe ship itself, but there was no noticeable effect, not even on thesensors."Cease fire," Thrawn said. There was an unusual tone to hisvoice, as if he were about to make a chess move right into a trap thathe could feel was there but couldn't quite see. "Turbolasers," heordered.While the message was relayed to the stations Jarrol steppedover to Thrawn's side. "Shall we launch our missiles as well?" heasked.Thrawn didn't answer at first, he just stared at the image ofthe cyborg on his datapad. "No," he said finally. "And no fighters.Just fire our lasers and let's see what happens."Due to the sheer size of the Borg Cube the star destroyersturned their ships so the heavy turbolaser batteries on their dorsalside could all be brought to bear, much like it did during a BaseDelta Zero. That much firepower could normal eradicate all life on aworld in little time, and with the rate the plasma bolts tore throughthe tritanium hull of the Cube it seemed that would be the case hereas well.But for the Borg the purpose of the attack wasn't to fight, itwas to learn about this new species. Their scans had revealed newtypes of technology, and what little information their lost drone hadgathered indicated that there was some that could be of use to theCollective. Because even though they had been cut off from the hivemind, the Borg never for a moment deviated from their purpose: toconsume technology and cultures that would increase their ownperfection. That it would involve their own destruction wasn't even afactor.The Voyager bridge crew watched in amazement as the cube wasslowly torn to pieces by the aliens with few retaliatory shots oftheir own. The last time they'd seen anything like this--the onlytime actually--was Species 8472. It was clear that Chakotay wasn'tthe only one thinking that. "It doesn't look like the Borg haveadapted yet," Harry Kim observed."I don't think they'll get the chance," Chakotay said as acorner ten times Voyager's size broke off from the main mass of theCube.Paris swiveled nervously in his pilot's chair. "I hate to bethe pessimist here," he remarked, his eyes glued to the screen. "But,I have a feeling they're not going to just ignore us after they'rethrough with the Borg."Chakotay had been thinking the same thing. "Any progress,Tuvok?""I believe I have the answer," Tuvok said, "but I am unable tosend the response.""Was the comm system damaged?" Chakotay asked as he camearound to the tactical panel."Negative. But there is a powerful distortion field that'sblocking our ability to communicate.""Some kind of energy noise," Harry Kim said. "It's playinghavoc with our sensors as well. I think it's coming from those alienships."Any further discussion was halted when the Cube ruptured in aseries of smaller explosions as individual power distribution nodesfailed. Random debris scattered across space, buffeting Voyager withshrapnel. Mercifully the shields held, but as they watched the threeships responsible close on their location it was clear that was wherethere good fortune ended.It was fifty thousand lightyears from where the battle justended to the Imperial capital of Coruscant, but for a master of theForce distance was something that happened to other people. TheEmperor hadn't moved since he had summoned Mara Jade hours before. Hismeditation was so deep she wondered if he would ever return. It wasclear why she had been called here; with Vader overseeing constructionon the Death Star she was the only one left who could feel that he wasstill alive. Even this deep there was no mistaking the powerfulimpression he left on the fabric of life, a neutron star on the rubbersheet that was the Force. Despite herself Mara jumped when he spoke."There is a great disturbance in the force.""Yes master, you have told me." She tried to disguise herfear. There was something different about him, but she was afraid toprobe it for fear of rebuke or, even worse, actually discovering whatit was."No, not that. No mere Jedi can do this. This issomething... alien."Mara Jade had received little training in the Force, so shecould only wait while her master pondered what he'd felt. He seemedto reach a decision. "You will remain here with me on Coruscant."That hadn't been what she'd expected. "But, I was to killSkywalker.""He is no longer a cause for concern," the Emperor saidflatly. "We must prepare for an even greater challenge." He stood upand reached out for Mara. "Come." Mara climbed the steps and thenknelt before him. "Are you prepared to give up the life you have leduntil now? Will you leave that person behind, if it meant limitlesspower at my side?""Yes, my master," she said. Immediately she felt her mindstabbed. It was hate, a cold hate, a hate that was born fromisolation in the frozen stars, a hate weaned on pain and nurtured byabandonment and isolation. It was a hatred so black it consumed thelight, boundless and barren, it allowed no room for pity or mercy orcompassion, but it offered a strength that Mara could never haveimagined.It had been an instant, and it had been forever, but thesensation ended and Mara found herself panting on the stairs to theEmperor's throne. "Rise," he ordered, but with a touch of friendshipto his voice. "It is time to begin your training, my youngapprentice."CHAPTER II.On a small, isolated world in a back corner of the galaxy thatthe universe seemed to have forgotten, there was a single settlement.On this world sat a tiny mud hut which happened to be the home of oneof the two most powerful masters of the Force that lived. If any hadsomehow found themselves in this particular area of the swampy planetthey would have heard the sound of a heated argument between thatmaster and a particularly unruly student."Unfortunate that I know the truth?!" Luke Skywalkerexclaimed, unable to restrain his frustration. To have spent yearsbelieving that his father had been a champion of good only to learnthat he was the very symbol of darkness wasn't easy, and the fact thathis teachers had deliberately perpetuated that illusion made it allthe more painful. Darth Vader, greatest enemy of all Luke held dear,was his own father. Considering the weight of that statement, he wastaking it pretty well."Not ready for the burden were you," Yoda said wearily,although Luke wasn't really listening. The master coughed, butwhether it was to get his attention or just succumbing to his age wasunclear. "There is a great evil coming. Stopped it must be. Timeyou will have, but squander it you must not. Mind what you havelearned, save you it can." He was interrupted by another coughingfit. "Hear, and remember: Once you start down the dark path," hewarned with a choke in his voice, "forever will it dominate yourdestiny."Luke could sense his master's lifeforce starting to fade, andhis own concerns were pushed aside. "Master Yoda..." he saidimpotently, knowing that very soon he'd be gone, just like Ben... justlike so many people he'd cared about. It was so hard to keep buryingthe people he loved, and now, when this horrible truth was placedbefore him, the one he most needed to guide him was going to die too.Master Yoda, sensing his fear, spoke to him, his voice brokenas he struggled for every breath. "There... is... another...Skywalker." And with that, he vanished.After taking a few moments to come to terms with his grief,Luke exited the small hut and walked towards his ship. Artoo, themost loyal droid ever built, warbled at him with concern. Even hecould tell something was wrong, and there definitely was. This washis burden now; Ben, Biggs, Uncle Owen, Aunt Beru, and now even MasterYoda, they were all gone, leaving him to face this impossible task. "Ican't do it, Artoo," he said quietly, more to himself than to hisdroid. The emptiness weighed on his soul. "I can't go on alone.""Yoda will always be with you," a distant voice told him, andit took Luke a moment to realize he'd actually heard it out loud."Obi-Wan," Luke said, feeling a mix of emotions. He was gladfor the company of his long lost friend, but the lie was so fresh inhis mind he couldn't hide his sense of betrayal. "Why didn't you tellme?"The shade sat on a log and Luke joined him, listening as theold man explained what had happened. His father had been the championthat he had remembered, but the promises of the dark side in the endhad been too much for him. He had fallen... become so afraid oflosing the woman he cared about that he'd become the agent of the evilthe two of them had always fought so hard to stop. That was why Lukehad been hidden away, to save him from the same fate as his mother;and so had she. "Leia," Luke said, the answer suddenly so clear."Leia is my sister.""Your insight serves you well," Obi-Wan said with approval.Luke knew what he meant, that this wasn't his burden alone. Ifhe could train his sister in the ways of the Force, if she too becamea Jedi, there might be a way to accomplish the impossible. "There isstill good in him," Luke told the elder. "Perhaps together-""You have time," Obi-Wan said, "but not as much as you mightthink. You must prepare yourself for the destiny that awaits you. Youface not only Darth Vader, but the Emperor and the forces of evil. Donot take Yoda's warning lightly." Luke could sense his teacher'sanxiety. "I'm afraid that in the trials to come you will face enemiesmore powerful than you can possibly imagine."Luke was resolute. "I can save him." There was no doubt inhis mind."You must do what you must," Obi-Wan said. "But never forgetwhat he is. Whatever has happened, destiny is clear. You will faceDarth Vader again."Traveling across the universe, a single message defied physicsby exceeding the speed of light due to a few scientifictechnicalities. Even then, it took centuries to cross the greatemptiness between galaxies. It was a perfect metaphor for theeventual recipients: unfeeling, ever patient, inevitable. The Borgare not so much a force of arms as they are a force of nature. Andwhen they received the message and learned about the existence of arace with new technology to acquire, their reaction was predictable.Unfeeling, and ever patient. It would be theirs; it was inevitable.Captain Janeway and her senior officers stood at attention inthe main shuttlebay as they watched the Imperial ship dock. There wasa palatable excitement in the room as the door opened and the firstmember of the Galactic Empire set foot on a Federation starship. Hoursbefore, they had feared it would be as a conqueror."They defeated the Borg," Janeway had said with dismay asChakotay filled her in from the bridge.Her first officer nodded. "They made it look easy. We werenervous for a little while, but once Tuvok contacted them we were ableto explain the situation. They're called the Galactic Empire.""I guess that means we're a little farther from home than wethought," Janeway said.Chakotay nodded. "Harry estimates we're on the other side ofthe known universe. Fortunately the wormhole is still stable, but I'mnot sure heading back yet is such a good idea.""Agreed," Janeway said. "The last thing we need are more Borglooking for their missing cube.""Admiral Thrawn has offered to tow us to an Imperial stationwhere we can repair the ship."And that was the man: Admiral Thrawn. The man who haddestroyed a Borg Cube in minutes, and who had brought their ship tothe station for repairs. What they hadn't realized was that thestation was one hundred eighty light-years away, a journey of severalweeks for Voyager. The Incaciad had done it in eleven minutes. Asthe captain of a ship trapped thirty-five thousand light-years fromhome, that wasn't the kind of thing you failed to notice. With thatability, Voyager could be home in days, and Janeway was ready to doanything to get her hands on it, even if she had to resort to stealingit.Janeway stepped forward and greeted Admiral Thrawn. His skinwas blue, and his red eyes were rather intimidating, but he wore afriendly enough expression as she approached. He was polite as shemade introductions and then began a tour of their ship. Eventually,he seemed to steer the conversation in a different direction."I'm rather interested in that ship you were fighting," Thrawnsaid as they left astrometrics. "The Borg?""The Borg," Janeway said, briefly reflected on her ownexperience with them. "Not exactly the friendliest of races from ourside of the wormhole.""Certainly not very personable," Thrawn agreed. "Are theyyour enemies?""Only in the sense that we exist," Janeway said as theyentered the turbolift for the lower decks. "The Borg don't see anyonebesides themselves as anything except raw materials.""Charming," Thrawn said as they exited the lift. A short wayup the corridor Janeway directed him to a door on the right."This is our transporter room," Janeway said.Thrawn looked about it, his brow furrowed. "I'm not quitesure I understand."Janeway gestured towards the transporter pad. "This deviceallows us to break down matter in one location and reconstitute it inanother." She was starting to feel hopeful; if this was technologyalien to the Empire she could possibly trade it for their owntechnology: the hyperdrive."You do this with people?" he said, attempting to hide hisdistaste."It's perfectly safe," Janeway said a bit too quickly.Thrawn tapped his lips as he looked at the pad and thecontrols thoughtfully. "I could see how it could be useful in movinglarge amounts of cargo," he said finally."I'm so glad to hear you say that," Janeway said with a smilethat would put a Ferengi to shame.In a different part of the galaxy, near Sullust, Luke wastedlittle time in shedding his flight suit and heading down to themeeting room in Home One. He wasn't certain what was being discussed,but he knew it would revolve around the Emperor's new Death Star.Having already gone against one, he was leery about a repeatperformance.In a group like the Rebel Alliance there's always an attemptto maintain military command and discipline, but in the end you aredealing with just bush pilots, pirates, and militia. The noise of themany arguments was a bit surprising, so Luke quickly slid over towhere Leia Organa and Han Solo, his closest friends, were sitting."What's going on?" he asked, noting the scowl on Han's face."Just five hundred people with five hundred different ideasabout how we should end the war," Han said cynically."The Emperor has changed his plans," Leia said. Her face wasa mask, but he could sense the conflict in her. She seemed uncertainabout what they should do herself. "Originally he was going toinspect the Death Star, but now he seems content to wait for them toget on schedule themselves."Luke understood. "We were hoping to take advantage of it.""Exactly," Lando Calrissian said, taking a seat next to Luke."The old man never leaves Coruscant, it would've been the perfectopportunity to take him out of the picture for good.""The Emperor is incidental," General Blissex said emphaticallyas the argument toned down slightly. "The Death Star is a weapon ofunimaginable destruction and it must be destroyed.""Agreed," General Madine said, "But at what cost? We preparedfor this assault knowing we had an opportunity to behead the Empire.Without the Emperor the Death Star is a less important target.""We need to do this now," Admiral Ackbar said. "With theweapons systems non-operational we stand our best chance against it.""It's too great a risk for too small a prize," Madine replied."The plan commits all of our resources. If we attempt and fail theAlliance is finished, and with it any hope of restoring freedom to thegalaxy.""If we wait, we only postpone the inevitable," General Blissexsaid. "The Empire has already proven this weapon is not for show.They used it against Alderaan because they sympathized with us. Ifthat weapon is complete, no one is going to be willing to risk helpingus. We'll lose our support and eventually be wiped out.""Princess Organa," Mon Mothma said over the din. "You are thesenator from Alderaan. You've seen this weapon used first hand. Whatis your opinion of all this?""She's not a military officer-" Blissex began, but wiltedunder Mon Mothma's stare.Leia took a deep breath, and Luke could feel that she was evenmore conflicted. "The Emperor does nothing on a whim," she saidfinally. "He has shown throughout his reign that he carefully plotsout his every choice. His tight rein on the military high command isproof enough of that." Luke could sense the pain as she thought abouther homeworld. "No one is more aware than I of the threat that weaponposes, but we can't let fear blind us to reality. The Emperor'ssudden behavior is indicative of something important, more importantthan his pet project. Or, even worse, I fear he may have learned ourintentions, and altered his plans accordingly.""How could he know?" General Reikken asked. "Are yousuggesting a spy amongst us?""I'm suggesting that the Emperor might have laid a trap for usat Endor," Leia said. "And if so we'd be fools to step into it. Ifnot, if he changed his plans for some other reason, we may have ourpriorities out of order.""What could be more important than a Death Star?" Ackbardemanded."That, admiral," Leia said, "is exactly what I'm afraid offinding out."After some time the group finally agreed to hold off on theattack until the rebel spy network was able to learn more about theEmperor's plans. There was still an almost funeral-like tension inthe air, regardless of everyone's view of the decision. They had hadtheir first real glimpse of the end, and it had been just as suddenlylost. But as Ben had told him, Luke had time ahead of him, and heplanned to put it to good use. After the meeting he took Leia aside.He didn't want to have to do it now, given her own burden at themoment, but she had to know. "Leia," he said, finally finding thecourage to say the words, "I need to tell you something... somethingrather incredible."Admiral Thrawn's smile vanished after Janeway was transportedoff the bridge of the Incaciad. It seemed like the woman would nevershut up, but after three days of conversations -enough time for theengineering crews to install the new hyperdrive on Voyager- she hadfilled him in on much of what lay on the other side of that wormhole.Tens of thousands of splintered powers vying for their own littleshare of their galaxy. Thrawn had little doubt what the Emperor andhis advisors would have in mind, and given his own proximity to theanomaly... he suspected he'd have a very interesting opportunity inthat little ship. "Captain," he said, not even turning his head."Yes, admiral," Captain Jarrol replied."Have our fleet escort Voyager to the wormhole," Thrawn said,his eyes never leaving the vessel. "Let's make sure she doesn't loseher way.""Engineering to the bridge," B'ellana Torres, Voyager's ChiefEngineer, said over the comm. "We're ready down here."Janeway was literally on the edge of her seat in anticipation."Seven?""I've established a link between our astronavigationaldatabase and long-range sensors," Seven said as she entered somecommands in astrometrics. "I've fed the data through to the helm."She finished tapping the panel. "Whenever you're ready, Mr. Paris.""You heard her, Tom," Janeway said, fidgeting with excitement."Set course for the wormhole, maximum..." she stopped short."Velocity," she shrugged at Chakotay, who smirked at her."I'm sure they'll come up with a name for it soon enough," hereplied."Course laid in," Tom Paris said at the helm. "Engaging thehyperdrive." With a single push of a button, the stars began tostretch and turn, and the Voyager crew found space suddenly replacedwith a kind of milky-white pattern around them.Janeway stood up and approached the screen. She had been inEngineering when the Incaciad had brought them to the Imperialstation, and hadn't witnessed hyperspace before. "It's beautiful,"she said quietly, the tiniest hint of emotion in her voice."Yes it is," Harry said. "It's the way home."Almost as suddenly the starlines returned, and the normalebony of space spread out before them. "Are we there?" Janeway said,her voice still barely audible."Yes, captain," Paris said. "And for the record we made it in12 minutes, 41 seconds. Just might be a new Starfleet record.""Let's hope we have an opportunity to challenge that record,"Janeway said. "Give our thanks to-"Captain Janeway never finished. Instead space twisted in onitself before her, and the ominous sight of three Borg Cubes filledthe screen in front of her. "Oh my God," she whispered. "They foundthe wormhole." She watched the Cubes pass Voyager and fly towardstheir star destroyer escort. "What have we done?"CHAPTER III.The Napuli System was, for the most part, a strategicallyuseless area of space. Little mineral wealth, no known colonies orlife, and a hundred light-years from a settled system, it was asimportant in the grand scheme as a blade of grass is to a wheat field.However, the fact that the first fleet engagement of the Borg War wastaking place here showed that things can change in an instant."All TIEs stand by," Thrawn ordered. "But do not launchunless I give the word." Despite the seriousness of the situation hisvoice was calm, but firm. He had learned a great deal about theseBorg, but most of it was second-hand. Still, Thrawn had experienceusing little bits of information for his advantage."Admiral," Captain Jarrol said anxiously, "We're receiving acommunication. They-""I know what they want," Thrawn interrupted, his eyes neverleaving the three vessels. He was very quiet. "All turbolasers onthe center cube," he finally said. "From all vessels."Jarrol hesitated for a moment, but only a moment. To him, itwas insane to ignore two-thirds of the opposing forces when they couldtry to incapacitate all three, but he'd learned more than once tofollow his commander's orders regardless. Immediately their weaponsbegan tearing into the central cube. He kept his eyes on the sensors,watching the devastation. The first cube they had encountered hadtaken little time to destroy, and this one didn't look different,until. "Lieutenant," he said with obvious confusion, "is there aproblem with the sensors?""Negative, sir," the lieutenant reported from the crewpit.Jarrol turned away and stepped over. "Then why do theinstruments insist our weapons are doing less damage?" he said withobvious irritation."It's not the instruments," Thrawn said quietly, his eyesnever leaving the tactical display. "It's them.""What do you mean?" Jarrol asked. "Sir," he quickly added.Thrawn looked back at the ship and then the display, and whenhe spoke, it was as if he were discussion the duty roster. "The Borg,captain, have adapted.""Re-route power to the shields," Janeway ordered. "Evasivemaneuvers. Load all torpedo bays.""Captain," Tuvok said, a calm center on the storm of thebridge as always, "the Borg appear to be focusing solely on theImperials.""Then give them something else to think about," she replied."Torpedoes, full spread."One after the other the torpedoes exploded from the tubes andimpacted on the Borg ship. When the series completed itself, thespace glowed from the discharged plasma. But..."no effect," Tuvoksaid."Bring us around," Janeway said, taking her seat. "Attackalong the same vector as the Imperials; we might be able to punchthrough.""Captain," Chakotay said quickly, "Maybe we should leave thisto the Imperials. They were more than a match last time.""The Borg hadn't adapted yet," Janeway countered. "This timethey will, and the admiral will need every ship he can get." Chakotayopened his mouth, but Janeway cut him off before he could even start."We brought them here. We are obligated to stop them. Tom, bring usaround."The Intrepid-class starship weaved into the conflagrationbetween the titans, phasers and torpedoes trying to breach Borgdefenses. After a few minutes the combined efforts blew the cube topieces. A few words of encouragement were said, then the group movedon to the next cube. "Torpedoes, full spread," Janeway ordered as thetiny Federation ship dodged the Borg's energy weapon and closed in."There are only two torpedoes left," Tuvok informed her. "Doyou wish me to fire them?""Not yet," Janeway said. In the heat of the moment she'dforgotten how the previous battle had seriously reduced their limitedsupply. "Try to find an opening, then launch it down their throats.""Sir," Captain Jarrol said as Thrawn continued looking betweenthe battle and the tactical display, "the Lucinda's shields arefailing. The Borg have been-""They're using a shield draining weapon," Thrawn finished."Set the jammers to a randomized pattern.""Yes," Jarrol said as he passed on the order, but hisconfusion was obvious."If the jamming is regular," Thrawn said, even though hisattention was focused on the battle, "they might find a way tominimize it and use their transporters. We mustn't let that happen.Launch all TIEs." He tapped the console as he watched the reportscoming in from the Lucinda. The Borg had ganged up on it in preciselythe same manner as the star destroyers. Shields were failing. "Iwant TIEs to target all tractor beam emitters. The Borg can't beallowed to assimilate any part of the Lucinda; not one member of thecrew, not so much as a wrench. Are my orders clear?" They were;Thrawn was not one to resort to hyperbole."Captain!" Ens. Kim shouted with concern. "I'm readinghundreds of ships, too many to get a precise count.""More Borg?" Janeway asked, her heart in her throat."No," Kim replied, more restrained, "they're from the Imperialships. They appear to be large shuttles.""They're not evacuating, are they?" Janeway asked Chakotay inconfusion."I don't think so, Captain," Tom Paris said as he pointed tothe display. They watched as the ships swarmed around Voyager andswooped in at the cubes, their weapons tiny pinpoints as they fired atthe massive ships."It looks like Thrawn had a little surprise planned," Chakotayremarked."Hopefully this will turn the tide," Janeway remarked as theyjoined in the attack with the fighters."I don't think so, Captain," Kim said, his disappointmenttransparent. "They've begun assimilating one of the star destroyers."The bridge was a buzz of controlled activity as the task ofrunning a warship and coordinating a battle continued with the fineprecision Thrawn demanded of his officers. The admiral himself wassilently weighing the factors in his cold mind. The differencebetween Thrawn's thinking and a military computer's was that thecomputer was not aware of the moral consequences of its decisions. Thedifference between Thrawn and most officers was that he didn't allowthat to influence his thinking."Give me Captain Tamez," Thrawn said. Activity in the roomquieted slightly; the admiral rarely spoke with the other vesselsdirectly during combat. "Captain," Thrawn said as the hologramappeared on the bridge, "can you raise your shields?""No sir," Tamez replied, doing his best not to display anyemotion as the Borg tried to carve his ship apart around him."Captain, I want you to ram the port cube." He spoke as if itwere a minor course correction."Say again?" Tamez replied."The Borg are assimilating you," Thrawn said. "They want totake you and your crew and turn you into brainless slaves. If youdon't destroy them, this will happen.""We have them outnumbered-""You won't last that long," Thrawn said, "and we are short ontime. You can die a slave or die fighting to save the Empire. Isuggest you choose the latter."Tamez obviously didn't like either choice. "Admiral-""Ramming speed," Thrawn said. "Those are your orders."Tamez took a deep breath through his nose. "Yes, admiral." Hetried to put as much pride into the words as he could, and thehologram faded. The bridge remained quiet as Thrawn's order seemed tohang in the air.Thrawn stepped back to his position in front of the tacticaldisplay. He could explain to them that anything the Borg assimilatedcould be used to learn about the Empire and how to destroy it, andthat even obliterating the vessels wouldn't keep that knowledge frombeing passed on to the collective. Of course, he was also theadmiral, and he explained to no one but the Emperor. "Unless we wishto share their fate," he said evenly, "we must focus on the task athand."The bridgecrew of Voyager watched in shock as the stardestroyer and the cube collided in an explosion so energetic they wereflashblinded. An energy wave struck and knocked them off balance.When Janeway managed to right herself she was able to make out theshattered remains of the cube; the star destroyer was vaporized."Death before assimilation," Chakotay said grimly. "I'm surea few Federation captains had similar thoughts.""Earth," Janeway said quietly. She looked at Chakotay, andnoticed the odd way he looked at her. "Captain Riker was prepared todo the same thing to save Earth when the Borg first came." She shookher head. "We have more in common with these Imperials than physicalappearance." She called out orders for battle to finish off theremains of the final cube, but part of her couldn't stop thinkingabout what had happened.Luke looked on with some concern as Leia held the lightsabertightly in her hands. He could sense her fear, which was an importantconcern. His family didn't have a good history with the dark side."Relax," he told her, "Don't try to force it. Just let it happen." Heactivated the remote, which began to move with a series of small,deliberate motions. Every few seconds a beam would lash out--notstrong, just enough to sting. Leia swung the blade, but missed. Thisrepeated until Luke could sense her frustration. "I know it seemshard, but that's just it. It only seems hard because you think it is.Stretch out with your feelings, and don't worry about whether youblock or not. Just let your instincts guide you.""Easy to say," Leia said through gritted teeth, "hard to do."The blade was brought up, almost blocking the latest bolt."Like all things, it takes practice and patience." Which wastrue, but there was no sense in going too hard on her on her firstday. Luke stretched out with the Force and turned the remote to alower setting. He felt a flash of anger."I don't need you to go soft on me," Leia told him. "I justneed to get the hang of things."Luke nodded with a small smile. "How did you know?" he asked.Leia opened her mouth to speak, and then closed it. "I don'tknow. I just... just knew.""Now you're starting to understand," he said with approval."Trust your feelings, don't second guess them."Leia took a deep breath then held the lightsaber out in frontof her, eyes fixed on the remote. It fired, slow at first, thenfaster. The green blade slipped through the air with a quiet hum asit snatched at each sliver of energy, bouncing it away harmlessly.Luke switched it off and clapped his hands a few times. "You've takenthe first step," he said with approval. "But there's something youmust always remember. Take these steps only along the proper path."He paused, realizing that it was only a week ago that he was thepupil. He wished Master Yoda was there to train her, to give theguidance that Leia needed to avoid the trap their father had steppedinto and that he nearly succumbed to as well. That was Yoda's lastwarning to him, something that, even as he died, he wanted Luke toremember. He would face his father again; would he face the dark sideagain as well? And more importantly, could he find the strength torefuse it, or would he give in to temptation?"Are you all right?" Leia asked.Luke tried to put on a cheerful face. She was definitelygrowing in her powers. "I'll be fine," he assured her. "Let'scontinue with your exercises.""Are they gone?" the Emperor asked."Yes, your highness," the hologram replied. Mara stopped herexercise, her instincts telling her that something important was goingon. After a few seconds she recognized the hologram as Thrawn, one ofthe more gifted military commanders, but nevertheless an alien.However good they might be, never trust an alien, or so the Emperorhad taught her; and he was right. Thrawn may command in his navy, butthe Emperor did not for an instant allow that to cloud his judgment ofthe creature."What do you know about this Federation?" the Emperor asked."They are but one of thousands of minor powers located intheir galaxy," Thrawn replied. "Many have little knowledge of theexistence of most of the others. Communication on the galactic scaleis virtually non-existent.""That can be used to our advantage," the Emperor replied."What of the leader you spoke with?"Thrawn chuckled. "Janeway is extremely naïve. She seems totake everything at face value. After the Lucinda was destroyed shegave us all tactical information they had on the Borg, no matter howobscure. There is a multitude of details we can use to deduceinformation about tactical and strategic possibilities against a greatdeal of powers in their galaxy. And of course, the information on theBorg itself will be extremely useful.""Indeed," the Emperor said. "What is your assessment of theseBorg?""They are obviously a threat, you highness," Thrawn repliedsimply. "They no doubt want to assimilate us as well, and since it'simpossible to negotiate with them, armed conflict is unavoidable.""Then you are recommending that we prepare for war," theEmperor replied."Your Excellency, I suggest that we deter them from thatcourse. A retaliatory strike into their territory as a directresponse to their invasion would demonstrate that further conflictswith the Empire would not be in their best interests."Mara could sense the Emperor's mood sour. Was Thrawnattempting some duplicity? "I thought you said these Borg areunreasonable.""Your highness, the Borg cannot be reasoned with, but theyare, in the end, beings of logic."The Emperor was silent for several minutes, but Thrawn saidnothing, a wise choice as far as Mara was concerned. Her master wasright, this alien couldn't be trusted. However, the Borg weredefinitely a threat if they could cause the destruction of a stardestroyer. "I want you to take command of a task force of vesselsfrom the nearest space station, and cross into this Milky Way galaxy.""Yes, your excellency," Thrawn replied.Mara could sense the Emperor's irritation. He had no doubtbeen expecting Thrawn to presume he would command the war effort, andthus humiliate him by denying it. "I want a station built on theother side of the wormhole to serve as a launch platform for ourefforts and to maintain communication throughout the conflict. Seethat it is built quickly and protected from the Borg."Thrawn nodded and the hologram faded. The Emperor turnedtowards Mara, his gaze causing her to wither slightly. The more shegrew in her power, the more she could sense how great the gap wasbetween them. He noticed her reaction, as he noticed everything, anda smile drew to his lips at her fear. "Good," he said slowly. "Fearis the path to strength. Terror, hatred, passion, these are thethings of power. Embrace them, my young apprentice.""Yes, my master," she replied with a slight bow. Shehesitated, unsure if it was her place to speak with him of suchthings. "Master, do you really trust such an important matter in thehands of the Chiss?"The Emperor waved the remark away as he returned to histhrone. "He is an able planner and a skilled tactician, but I wouldnot be so foolish as to trust him with this campaign. Darth Vader'sfleet has the most capable officers in the navy; they will deal withthe Borg.""But what of the rebels," Mara replied. "If they attack whilethe fleet is gone-""The rebels will not attack," the Emperor replied. "And ifthey were so foolish, the battlestation is shielded, and no army inexistence can equal the one I have placed to guard the generator. No,my young pupil, the rebels are no threat."Mara nodded her agreement, but the Emperor could sense herthoughts. He chuckled. "Yes, you are correct child. One must neverunderestimate one's enemy, no matter how nearly vanquished they mightbe." It was a lesson her master had impressed on her from day one; alesson one of her predecessors had learned from a lightsaber point."The rebel support will wither once my battlestation is operational,lest they suffer the same fate as Alderaan. You need not alwaysbattle to win, young Mara, you can succeed merely by using yourenemy's fears against them.""I still don't understand."The Emperor smiled, and Mara could sense he was thinking aboutthe Federation and its neighbors. "You will child. You will."

CHAPTER IV.Captain Janeway tried not to fidget in front of the admirals,but it wasn't easy. With the celebrations of Voyager's return ending,the reality of all that had happened had sunk in. For five years shehad no superior officers to deal with, no one to report to but her ownconscience. Now that she was home, those five years were about to beplaced under a microscope."Captain, before we begin," said Admiral Parks, the seniorofficer present, "I want you to understand that this is not anofficial inquiry or a disciplinary investigation. We just want toclear up some of the events that took place during your absence."Janeway nodded. "I understand, admiral." She was glad none ofthem were telepaths and could tell what a lie that was."Good," Parks turned to a white-haired man at the end of therow. "Adm. Jellico, I believe you had a topic of particular concern."Admiral Jellico nodded. "Captain Janeway. You ascribed yourspeedy return to a group called the," he turned to his notes, "theGalactic Empire?""Yes," Janeway answered, "we worked out an exchange with arepresentative of the Empire wherein they were given transportertechnology and we were given their propulsion device."Jellico consulted his notes again. "A device called a'hyperdrive'.""Yes. They showed interest in our transporters, and weobviously needed their device a great deal.""Enough to violate the Prime Directive?" Jellico replied.The suddenness of the remark caught her off guard. "What doyou mean, sir?" Janeway replied."According to your report," Jellico said, "the Empire is notonly on the other side of the universe, but is existing at a time farearlier than our own.""Yes," Janeway replied. "We discovered that the wormholedisplaces in space as well as time, at the speed of subspace in fact.""Very convenient," Jellico said with disinterest, "but itdoesn't explain why you deliberately gave technology to a society thatexisted, by your own admission, before our own."Janeway's voice dropped in pitch. "We didn't know about thisat the time. It wasn't until the Borg showed up that we realized it.In either case, I stand by my actions.""Even though they violate Starfleet regulations?" Jellicoasked pointedly."Yes," Janeway remained stoic, "I do."Janeway expected the barrage to continue, but Jellico suddenlyreversed thrusters, catching her off guard. "Would you not in factsay that your actions were necessary to ensure the safety of yourcrew?""Yes," she replied, wondering if she'd just stepped intoJellico's trap."Would you describe the Galactic Empire as being hostile?"Janeway was growing more suspicious, but she firmly believedthat the truth justified her. "In every encounter I had with them,the Empire showed they were civilized and cooperative."Admiral Parks spoke up. "Would you be willing to testify tothat before the Federation Council?""Yes," she replied, but didn't understand. She said as much."It's really quite simple, captain," Jellico said. "We wantyou to tell all of this to the Federation Council tomorrow.""To accomplish what?""A lot has happened while you were gone, captain." Parkshesitated. "The Federation is in trouble. We've been having diplomaticnegotiations with practically every two-bit planet in our part ofspace. We need support if we are to survive."She'd been gone too long, Janeway realized. She'd forgottenabout how much of a hotbed the alpha quadrant can be. It fell intoplace in an instant. "Then what you want..."Jellico finished, "We think the Federation should form analliance with the Empire."Seven of Nine waited outside the briefing room, hands claspedbehind her back in what passed for a relaxed pose, moving only as muchas was required to remain alert. It was for this reason she was awareof the small group of Starfleet personnel - cadets, she noted fromtheir insignia - that had gathered to stare at her since she andCaptain Janeway had arrived. Scoptophobia was an irrational fear, aswas paranoia; human foibles that she as a Borg had grown far beyond.Their whisphered discussions about her were of no concern, no concernat all."Do you require something?" she asked, causing the small crowdto jump at the suddenness of her remark. Despite herself she hadn'tbeen able to keep the belligerence out of her voice."Um," one of the female cadets said as her classmatesdistanced themselves from her slightly, "we were wondering if it wastrue... what they said, I mean. That you're a Borg.""I am an individual now," Seven replied."But, you were a Borg," the cadet replied. "You used to be."Seven resisted the pointless desire to rub her hands togetherat the uncomfortable situation. "Yes," she finally replied."Does it hurt when you're assimilated?" someone else asked."I don't remember," Seven replied."I thought Borg never forget anything," the first cadetreplied."We do not waste valuable resources on the pointlessrecollection of pain.""Did you ever help assimilate anyone?"Seven wrung her hands instinctively. "Yes," she repliedquietly."Did they show they were in pain? Did they want you to stop?""I don't remember," she said sharply."Mr. Hicks," a voice came from behind Seven, "are you incharge of this gathering?" All the cadets drew to attention. Sevenglanced between them and a white-haired man that had just exited thebriefing room."No, sir," the female cadet replied."You are now," he said. "Since your classmates have nothingbetter to do than gawk in a hallway, I think you can find the time toinventory the cargo containers at Docking Platform #2. I'll informthe quartermaster that you will personally have it on her desk by 2100hours.""Yes sir," she replied, and with a nod from the officer theyrushed off. As they left the man joined with a small group of otherswho had just left the briefing room. Seven noted the smile on CaptainJaneway's face, a complete reversal of her previously somber attitude."Your debriefing went well?" Seven asked."Better than well," Janeway replied as the two started walkingthrough the corridors of Starfleet Command. "It seems our littledetour through the wormhole may have a much larger consequence thanwe'd thought.""The hyperdrive will bring substantial changes," Sevenremarked. "Further tradings for Imperial technology would be wise.""Off the record," Janeway remarked, a phrase that Seven stillfailed to understand, "it's going to be a lot bigger than that." Theydrew to a halt as the cadet returned. "Can we help you?" Janewayasked politely."I'm sorry, sir," she replied nervously, then turned to Seven."I just wanted to apologize on behalf of myself and everyone else. Wedidn't mean to offend you.""I do not take offense," Seven replied."Well, what we did was rude, and as future Starfleet officerswe should've known better."Seven looked at Captain Janeway nervously, then back. "Youshould be completing the admiral's orders. It would be a mistake toneglect your duty by talking to me." She continued walking, the girllooking oddly between her and Janeway before the captain rushed tocatch up."Was there a problem?" Janeway asked with concern."No," Seven said curtly.Captain Janeway nodded, clearly not believing it but knowingbetter than to bring it up now. "Let's get back to the ship. I thinkwe've spent enough time on Earth for right now."Seven took a deep breath. "Agreed," she replied with a hintof exhaustion.Lt. Delric Taar tapped his datapad absentmindedly on the tablein front of him as he waited for the fleet-wide briefing to begin.Whatever was going on made him edgy; the zero hour for the rebelattack had come and gone, and command refused to breathe a word to thelower decks of what was going on, even though it was obvious somethingwas up. The fleet had left the incomplete Death Star undefended daysago, a dangerous move in his opinion. Of course, there was no lovelost between himself and the Death Star. More than one of his friendshad left the service over Alderaan, their hatred overwhelming theirloyalty for order and peace. Now he'd been forced to blow his formerwingmates away, and all because of a superweapon that was, by its verynature, a tactically useless tool.According to the rebellion, Alderaan had been destroyed byGrand Moff Tarkin just to spite a rebel spy. Of course, it wasprobably just propaganda, but down deep Taar had to wonder whether ornot anyone could command such power and be able to show restraint. Hewasn't optimistic, especially with Moff Jerjerrod in command. He'dseen the moff's reaction to Lord Vader, and putting ultimate power inthe hands of a whiny sycophant was like giving an infant a thermaldetonator to play with.Before he could continue the thought the holograms of othersquadron leaders appeared throughout the room, the fleet flightcoordinator appearing in the center. Taar got his datapad ready asthe briefing began."Squadron leaders," the major began, "meet your new enemy."The rotating image of a cube-shaped object appeared on each table, asmaller one of a star destroyer alongside it for scale. "They'recalled the Borg, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they poseno threat to the Empire." Taar took notes as the previous battlesinvolving the Borg were given, the known points of their defenses, andthe reason for the upcoming mission."We are going to cross through the wormhole and into Borgspace," the major continued. "Since they have no concept of diplomacywe plan to annihilate enough ships and planets to show them thatfurther attacks on the Empire would be a devastating mistake. Anyquestions?"Taar spoke up. "Sir, Interceptors, as the very name implies,are meant to deal with fighter craft. They cause minimal damage tocorvettes. What possible use do they have against a ship this size?"The major exhaled in annoyance. "We've determined thatswarming the cubes with fighters will provide a distraction that willallow our star destroyers to do their work."Don't say it, Delric. Don't say it, Delric. "So we're flyingtargets. Sir." You shouldn't have said it. The major's look ofscorn agreed with that sentiment."I think the major was impressed with your tacticalassessments," Lt. Starrunner, squadron leader for Grey Squadron,remarked after the briefing was over."Kriff him," Taar said with disgust. "These guys get takenout of the pilot seat and suddenly they forget what it's like to haveinches of plexisteel between you and death.""This is messed up," Starrunner agreed. "You heard howaccurate those Borg can get. They're asking us to basically die whenwe can't fight back. And do you think my bombers have a chance ofstaying ahead and outmaneuvering these Borg?""Not without cover," Taar said. He sighed, then rapped hisdatapad on the hull a couple of times. "Lohl," he said finally,"let's get our squadrons together for some simulations. Maybe there'sa way we can fight back against the Borg after all."Jean-luc Picard, captain of the Federation flagship,Enterprise, sighed with impatience as he waited outside the office ofAdm. Parks. After six weeks of separation from my ship you wouldthink I'd be used to it, he thought gloomily. He wasn't accustomed tobeing out of the loop, at least not when it came to the Enterprise.That Data, Geordi, and his engineering staff were allowed on board wasall the more infuriating, but at least now he could speak to someonewho could give him information, maybe even access to his ship again.He got to his feet as that someone arrived."Apologies for the delay, Jean-luc," Adm. Parks said, shakinghis hand."Not at all," Picard lied. "It seems these days time issomething I have plenty of."Parks laughed as he led Picard into his office. "Yes, there'sa fine line between R&R and boredom, isn't there.""Exactly," Picard said, hoping this meant the admiral wasgoing to let him in on what was happening.Parks took his seat, offering Picard a chair as he did."Jean-luc, I know it's not easy being kept in the dark on what goes onon your own vessel, but believe me, it's in the name of Federationsecurity.""Indeed," Picard said neutrally. It seemed to him that a lotwas being done in the name of Federation security lately, and hewasn't all that pleased with where that was leading. The declarationof martial law remained a particular sore spot with him, and areminder that their society was not as rock-solid as he'd like tothink."We have an opportunity to forever change the balance of powerin this quadrant," Parks continued. "A chance to ensure that theRomulans, the Cardassians, not even the Dominion will be able tothreaten the Federation again.""A new weapon?""An ally," Parks answered. "Someone with resources andtechnology that, along with our own strength, will deter practicallyany power that might try to wage war on us.""And you're afraid someone might form a treaty with thesepeople first," Picard said."Not exactly. No one can reach them in any reasonable amountof time; they exist on the other side of a wormhole that's overhalfway across the galaxy."Picard was a bit baffled. "I'm not sure I understand. Howhelpful can this power be if it would take decades just to reachthem?"Parks smiled. "Because right now we're the only ones who canreach them without taking decades." He explained to Picard aboutVoyager's encounter with the Borg, the Empire, and the new hyperdrive."And this is what you've been doing with the Enterprise allthis time," Picard concluded at the end. "Installing thishyperdrive.""Yes," Parks confirmed. "You can see the need for security.Even without the possibility of an alliance, the ability to deploy ourforces at hundreds of times the speed of our enemies gives us anincredible advantage. If that technology were stolen, it could bedamning.""I understand," Picard added. "But there's something I'm notclear on. If this treaty with the Empire is so important, why did wenot send Voyager? They have a functioning hyperdrive.""Yes, but that's about all that's functioning. Voyager's beenflying through Borg space for some time; she wasn't in the best shapewhen she returned. And besides that, a mission of this importancerequires a captain with a skill for diplomacy, and I think there's noone better qualified."With each passing second the frustrations of the previousweeks was replaced with anticipation as Picard thought of themagnitude of this mission. A mission of diplomacy to a civilizationthat spanned an entire galaxy was beyond the expectations of even themost fanciful cadets. "When do we leave?" he asked, now all the moreimpatient to get back to his ship and begin this historic trip."Three days," Parks replied. "The hyperdrive should befinished tomorrow, which should give your people enough time tofamiliarize themselves with the new equipment and prep for themission.""Will Captain Janeway be giving us a briefing?""Better. She's re-assigning a member of her crew to act asyour advisor on both the delta quadrant and the Galactic Empire.""Who?""She hasn't decided yet," Parks answered. "She needs someonewho's not only familiar with their technology, but has expertise indelta quadrant astrometrics and dealings with the Imperials. Findingsomeone who fits that bill won't be easy, and giving them up willprobably be even harder.""Well," Picard said as he rose to his feet, "I'll certainlylook forward to meeting whoever is up to that challenge."Seven of Nine walked through the door to the captain's readyroom. As always, Capt. Janeway was seated behind her desk, a PADD inone hand, a mug of coffee in the other. She was nothing if notpredictable. "You wished to see me, captain," Seven stated.Janeway continued to look at the PADD. "Yes, Seven, please sitdown.""Unnecessary, I'm comfortable standing."Janeway put down the PADD. "Yes, of course you are. I forgot,the Borg even sleep standing.""Inaccurate. The Borg regenerate, they do not sleep."Janeway came around and sat on the edge of her desk. "Yes...."Janeway continued after a brief pause. "Everything is in order, alldamage to the ship has been repaired, and I've finally got my privatedining room back," she added with a slight smile. "Some of the Maquisofficers have asked to transfer to Starfleet, and permission has beengranted for them to remain at their current posts. I've even persuadedthem to keep the Doctor on line as our chief medical officer, althoughthat took a little convincing.""I assume you're not updating the ship's status with theentire crew in this manner.""No." Janeway had a look of disappointment. "That leaves uswith our two resident civilians. Mr. Neelix has already departed. Thatleaves us with you."Seven breathed a little heavily, then began to speak. "If youdo not wish me to remain on board I will leave. I understand thatcircumstances have changed."Janeway stepped forward and grabbed Seven's hand. "That's notwhat I'm saying. You've been an asset to this ship. There's a chancethat we wouldn't be here if it weren't for you. We don't want you toleave. But it would be selfish of us to force you to remain on board.We'd be denying you new experiences, a chance to explore yourhumanity." Seven was uncharacteristically silent. "Going from lifeon Voyager to life on Earth isn't going to be an easy transition,"Janeway continued. "I think that's obvious to the both of us."Seven nodded slowly, not looking at her captain. "Adaptingwould be... difficult.""Perhaps it's time for a small step in the right direction."Janeway turned and picked up the PADD off her desk. "And I think wehave the perfect opportunity for you to take that step. Tell me, areyou familiar at all with the Enterprise?"CHAPTER V."There is something wrong."It was the voice you hoped to never hear, especially directedat yourself. It was, on its own intimidating, with its resonant bassoverlaid on that haunting rhythm. The mechanical breathing chilled,as if a subtle reminder of universal mortality. Yet even then thevoice did nothing to prepare you for the man; two meters of strengthembodied in flesh and machinery. An imposing body that was completedby an expressionless mask for a face to leave this man all the moreinhuman. Throughout the Empire his reputation was so legendary, soterrifying, he literally needed no introduction.Commander Pakkib knew that reputation as well, and ever sincethe Dark Lord of the Sith had arrived on the incomplete Death Star hehad felt fear gnawing at his entrails. The personal inspection hadgripped the entire station with similar despair, given that DarthVader's disappointment rarely led to anything but death. At themoment, he sounded too disappointed for Pakkib's liking."What's seems to be the problem, my lord," Pakkib managed toask. While he knew of nothing wrong, it was obvious contradictingVader could only make things worse."A tremor in the Force," Vader declared. No one knew if hewas staring at them behind that mask, but no one made any effort todraw attention to themselves. Commander Pakkib tried to ignore thebeads of sweat that were forming on his forehead with each inhale andexhale. "I want a complete check of the computer systems," Vaderfinally said. "And I want it done manually. Every last bit is to beanalyzed.""Understood my Lord," Pakkib replied. He swallowed slightlyand continued. "But I must tell you that it will take severaltechnicians to complete this assignment. It may start putting usbehind." Better to face Lord Vader's wrath now than live in fear ofits approach."Perhaps someone else could impel them to remain on schedule.""No," Pakkib said, perhaps a bit too quickly. "I was justkeeping your lordship appraised. We will remain on schedule.""Good," Vader implied, but there was no trace of satisfaction."I'll expect your report very soon."The anticipation was now far worse than whatever punishmentthe dark lord might offer. Pakkib turned to three of his technicians."You are relieved of your current assignment. Your new task is tocarry out Lord Vader's command - any anomalous files are to beanalyzed in detail. This is your top priority." He turned to theothers present. "The rest of you continue. We will remain onschedule, whatever the cost," he declared. Several hours later,one of the technicians hailed him on the comm system, his voicebetraying obvious surprise and concern. "Sir," he said, "we've foundwhat looks like some kind of droid memory file in the main computer.""What?" Droid memory files are rarely backed up at all, anddefinitely wouldn't be stored in an area where it could potentiallyaccess vital systems. Having it on the main computer of a Death Starwas about as bad as it could possibly get. "Erase the fileimmediately," he ordered. The technician acknowledged it, but asecond later there was the sound of blaster fire and screaming. Theautodefenses had killed him and the other two members of his team.Pakkib realized he was wrong; the worst it could possibly be was ahostile droid with control of the station. Chaos descended as Pakkiband his men began trying to isolate the rogue program, but apparentlyduring all this time, the droid mind had been searching for ways toget around them. Every time they tried to throw up a programmingwall, the droid found a way to bypass it. Every time they tried tophysically remove its connection, they were attacked by the automateddefenses. As the droid continued to assert more and more controlPakkib began contemplating the only solution: evacuate the station andoverload the reactor. It would be a disaster, but nothing compared toa rogue Death Star."What's the situation?" Vader demanded, causing Pakkib tovisibly jump. Pakkib quickly filled him in. "The main computer islocated in there?" he asked, pointing at the doorway.Pakkib nodded. "But the defenses have been activated, whichmeans the laser gate's armed and the computer's shielded, so we can'tshoot it. We'd have to cut the power at the junction but it'simpossible to reach from outside the room.Vader walked up to the door to examine it. Beyond, he couldsee the dead bodies of the other technicians. The lasergate was theultimate deterrent. Anything trying to penetrate would be blasted, andany attempt to destroy the weapons would cause an explosion strongenough to kill any would be invader. A perfect barrier - for anyonewho wasn't a master of the dark side. The crew looked on inastonishment as Vader took three steps back, then ran and dove throughthe opening. The weapons fired, but the Dark Lord twisted his body toavoid most of them. One blast did strike just below his rightshoulder, but the beam dissipated with no effect. Vader rolled onceacross the floor and into a fighting stance, his lightsaber ignited.Automatic security devices began firing, and the blade snapped out anddeflected them. One, two, then the third came and he deflected itright into the junction, causing the shield around the main computerto collapse. He sprang, cape billowing behind him, lightsabercontinuing to snatch the blaster bolts out of the air until he landedand stabbed straight through the casing. After that, there wassilence, save for the sizzling sound of broken electronics.Pakkib was so shocked at what had just happened that it didn'treally register until the dark lord was standing right in front ofhim. His awe gave way slowly to fear; he noticed several techniciansjump when the lightsaber was turned off. "Who was responsible forchecking the programming of that computer?" he demanded.Pakkib hesitated for a moment, while the various parts of hisbrain tried to shake themselves loose to dig through the metaphoricalfiles. "Lt. Teklif, my lord."Vader turned and looked over the assembled group; they shrankback as the blank mask passed over them. "You are aware that thisincident will put us even farther behind schedule?" Vader asked.Pakkib nodded. "Yes," was all he could say.Immediately, one of the technician's eyes grew wide and hebegan grasping at his throat. Those who were nearby began moving awayslowly as his eyes rolled up into his head and he fell to the floor.Vader turned back to Pakkib, who closed his eyes. At least it wouldbe relatively quick, if not particularly pleasant. But instead of thegrip on his throat, Vader began to walk away. "Inform your superiorthat you will need a new computer." He paused, then turned back. "Anda new technician.""Admiral," the captain said, and Piett walked over to the commstation. There were still a few patrols that hadn't reported in yet;perhaps this was the lead they'd been looking for. Combing throughthis galaxy was almost as bad as some areas of the Outer Rim; findingthe worlds of these Borg that had bloodied Thrawn's nose was provingdifficult.The communications officer spoke up. "Sir, Scoutships arereporting in from Sector 17. They've found a planet, technology seemssimilar to the one our sensors detected.""More than likely it's our Borg boogeymen," the captain said.Piett nodded. "And if not, they could probably point us inthe right direction. Alert all commands, converge on thosecoordinates." And with that order, the fleet of star destroyersslipped into hyperspace.Picard had been waiting in his ready room when she arrived.He'd been looking over the mission details, and he had to admit thathe was practically as giddy as a fresh graduate taking his firstassignment. The idea of opening diplomatic relations with acivilization as vast, ancient, and advanced as the Galactic Empirewent beyond even the pipedreams of young cadets. Sure, he wasn'tgoing to be actually engaged in negotiations -the delegates on boardwould handle that- but he'd be the one to get the foot in the door.When the door chimed he gave his standard "Come!" without even pausingin thought. But the sight of her was like dropping several tons oflumber on his mental railroad tracks.She was dressed in a blue full body suit rather than auniform, along with a pair of high-heeled boots. The fact that itemphasized her highly-attractive figure, however, didn't reallymatter. For Picard, it was her face, her hand, the tell-tale signs ofthe one and only civilization that used that particular type oftechnology. She is, or was, Borg. "Annika Hansen?" he asked in avoice that said he couldn't imagine the answer to that question being"Yes."The woman had been examining the room, more like analyzinggiven the way her eyes seemed to dwell on things. "I suppose that wasthe name you were provided," she said. "As you are the commandingofficer of this vessel, you may choose to address me by thatdesignation, though I should warn you that simply using it will notmake me become that person."Picard was now kicking himself for spending too much timelooking over the mission details and not taking the time to check thenew crewman's file beyond her name... and it seemed that even thatdata had been flawed. "What would you prefer?""I am Seven of Nine Tertiary Adjunct of Unimatrix Zero One.But you may call me Seven of Nine."Picard nodded to himself. The commander of this mission isthe only Starfleet officer to escape assimilation, and he's going tomeet with the Empire immediately after the Borg destroyed one of theirships, so naturally Janeway would choose to send a Borg as hisadvisor. No wonder they didn't want Voyager handling the diplomacy."You are a Borg, yes?" he asked, just to be certain."I am no longer a member of the collective, I am anindividual," Seven informed him."Yes, I can see that," Picard said in a neutral tone. "Thenyou must know about me.""Our thoughts were one for a time, Captain Picard," Sevensaid. "But the irrelevant details of your life are not known to me.Am I too assume that this won't be a hindrance to my assignment?""I would never allow my personal feelings to interfere in myduty." Picard stopped. Why did he say that? That implied there weresome personal feelings involved! "You are familiar with the Empire?""Yes, captain," Seven said. "I was involved in most of ourdirect meetings and have first-hand experience with their technology.I have also been briefed on the experiences of others.""Good, we'll need you to avoid any missteps. I don't think Ihave to tell you how important this meeting will be for us. TheEmpire could be a powerful friend, or a lethal enemy.""Agreed," Seven said. "I will ensure that you are adequatelyadvised in all circumstances."Picard nodded slowly. "Your quarters have already beenassigned. Do you have any special needs we should be aware of?""Yes," Seven said. "I assume I will be provided standardquarters. The bed can be removed; I do not require sleep. I will,however, require a power conduit be adapted to interface with mysystems.""You need an alcove, is that what you're saying?""Yes, captain." She noticed the tone in his voice. "Is thata problem captain?""So long as you don't go assimilating our ship, no," he said,then mentally kicked himself for the remark. That's twice she'sgotten under your skin, Jean-luc, he thought. And it's not her doingit, it's you! "Inform Commander Riker, he'll make the arrangements.If there's nothing else...""No, sir.""Dismissed." Seven nodded and left. Picard dropped the PADDon the desk. How was he going to open diplomatic relations withanother galaxy if he couldn't get along with his own crewmen?The Executor and the rest of its fleet exited hyperspace; fiveBorg cubes waited for them. They weren't the first they'dencountered, but it was the first time that the Borg would be on thereceiving end, and the first time Piett had a speech of his own."Transmission coming in, sir," the communication officer said. Piettnodded and it came over the speaker, thousands speaking a singlechant."We are the Borg. Lower your shields and surrender yourships. We will add your...""That's enough," Piett said, and the transmission was cut off."Ready our reply." He waited until the officer nodded. "This isAdmiral Piett of the Galactic Empire. You have violated our space andrepeatedly attacked our ships without provocation. This will not betolerated." He turned to the captain. "Alert all commands, engageand destroy."As the fleet closed in on the Borg world, the cubes rushed toengage them. As before, despite their adaptations, the turbolaserblasts tore massive holes in their ships. Still, the Collectiveseemed to press on despite the obvious damage, like an animal that hadbecome so rabid it wouldn't stop attacking even if it was being killedby the defender. However, the Borg weren't animals, they were logicaland unemotional, so they ignored the damage and instead concentratedtheir attacks on a single star destroyer. Despite the heavy damagethey managed to batter the ship's shields down. They bombarded theship with bluish-green bombs, which seemed to act as a kind of ionblast. The star destroyer's weapons were becoming less and lesseffective as the seconds passed.But outnumbered and outgunned, the cubes couldn't stand up tothe rest of the fleet. The last of the cubes was reduced tofragments. "Report," Piett ordered."All ships are reporting no damage, sir," the captain said."Except the Tyrant. Captain Lennox reports that the damage to many oftheir systems is serious; they'll need to return to the station tomake repairs."Piett nodded. "Send them to Base One. Once the ship'sfunctional, I want it back here with the fleet." The captain noddedand passed the message along. As the Tyrant limped off, the rest ofthe fleet closed in on the planet. "We'll show these Borg whoseresistance is futile." The Imperial fleet bombarded the planet; theBorg offered no resistance. Within minutes every square meter of thecrust had been reduced to smoking craters.Picard exited his ready room. "I assume we're ready, NumberOne?" he asked."Ready as we'll ever be, sir," Riker said. "Mr. LaForge saysall systems are go.""Helm, take us out of Spacedock; let's see what this enginecan do." He took his seat; Riker was on his right as usual, whileSeven had been provided the one normally allotted to Counselor Troifor the purpose of the mission. He watched as the doorway opened toallow the massive Sovereign-class ship to exit. "The anticipation isunnerving," he confessed to Riker."I feel a bit like Zephram Cochrane," Riker admitted. "Brandnew propulsion system, first contact.""Except we're not first, Will," Picard reminded him. "We'rejust making this trip. Everyone knows Armstrong and Aldrin werefirst, who remembers the second?""Peter Conrad and Alan Bean, sir," Data said.Picard turned to him. "Thank you, Mr. Data," he said.Data nodded. "In ten seconds we will be far enough outsidethe Earth's gravity well to engage the hyperdrive, captain.""And we'll see if it's everything we've been told it'd be.""The technology is effective," Seven informed him."I'm sure it is," Picard replied. "On my mark, helm...engage." And with that the stars began to lengthen and twist intostarlines, and suddenly, they were gone.CHAPTER VI.Even after six days, Picard still couldn't get over the eeriefeeling he had whenever he looked out the window of the Enterprise.Instead of the familiar streak of stars, there was an unnatural flowof...something. He didn't know how to describe it; hyperspace is whatSeven of Nine called it. Whatever it was, it felt wrong. Still, thatwas the price that came from crossing the galaxy at such fantasticspeeds, and if a journey of decades can be reduced to days, Picardconceded hyperspace could look as ugly as it liked.Lt. Commander Data's voice brought him back to the present."We'll be approaching the wormhole in fifteen seconds, captain."Picard acknowledged, and waited, then on Data's order helm shut downthe hyperdrive, and hyperspace turned to starlines, then collapsedback into the familiar view of real space, fifty thousand light-yearsnow behind them.... and one very massive object in front of them."All stop." Picard ordered. "What is that?""It appears to be some kind of space station sir," Datainformed him. "Although I am not familiar with any of its designpatterns."Seven of Nine turned to the captain. "It's similar in size andappearance to the Imperial station where Voyager was repaired. It'slikely the Empire constructed it to guard the passage to the wormholefrom future Borg attacks.""Captain," Data continued, "I'm also detecting a vessel, 1.6kilometers in length."Riker turned to Picard. "Big ship.""It is an Imperator-class Star Destroyer," Seven of Nineinformed him. "We encountered three such ships when we first madecontact.""Star...Destroyer?" Picard asked hoping that wasn't meant tobe taken literally."Merely its designation captain. Its weapons output isinsufficient to destroy a solar body."Picard acknowledged and turned to Lt. Thomas McClure. "Use themodifications to the deflector you were given. Open a channel."McClure gave Picard a nod. "This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of theUSS Enterprise. I'm here on behalf of the United Federation ofPlanets. Is this the Galactic Empire?"Finally, there was a response. "This is Commander Crovix.State your business Enterprise.""Not exactly friendly," Riker commented."But understandable under the circumstances, Number One,"Picard replied. "Open the channel again." McClure did so. "We arehere to open negotiations with the Empire. We wish to use thewormhole to travel to meet with your leaders.""Stand by Enterprise," was their only response."Captain," Lt. Travis spoke, "a ship -possibly a shuttle- hasleft the station and is heading for the wormhole.""No doubt to check with their superiors on the other side,"Picard noted.Data turned to Picard. "Captain, sensors indicate familiarenergy signatures coming from the Star Destroyer. The energysignatures are consistent with those left behind by Borg weaponry."Picard turned to Seven of Nine. "Could this have been one ofthe vessels that battled the Borg when Voyager was here?""Possibly," Seven admitted. With that, she got up and strodetowards the viewer. "Focus on the ship and magnify by a factor of 27,"she ordered.Data looked to Picard, who nodded. A close up view of theplate revealed a very faint pattern on the ships hull."This is not the same ship," Seven stated. "The markings onthe hull are not the same.""It seems that the Empire has had more run-ins with the Borg,"Picard said. "Data, any similar signs of damage to the station?""No, sir. It would seem that this was not a defensivebattle.""Which leads us to only one conclusion," Picard said. "Thisstation isn't the front line of defense, it's their fallback point.They've come to fight the Borg.""Who seeks out the Borg?" Riker asked. "It's bad enough whenthey come to you, why go looking for them?""That certainly is a good question, Number One. One I hope tofind an answer to."Before the discussion could continue a communication came infrom the station. "Permission has been granted to enter the wormhole.Once you pass through, you are to rendezvous with the Star DestroyerIncaciad.""That is the command vessel of Admiral Thrawn," Seven informedthe captain, taking her seat."Janeway's savior," Picard said. "Acknowledge thetransmission. Set course for the wormhole half impulse. Engage."And with that, the Enterprise proceeded to the wormhole, anddisappeared from the galaxy."Attention! Borg ships approaching. Prep all TIEs forimmeditate launch."Delric Taar blocked out the redundant commands echoingthroughout the hangar and headed for his ship. The launch crews hadbeen on constant alert, and Taar knew his interceptor would already beset for launch as soon as he reached it. He checked the rest of hissquadron before sealing the hatch, then fired the twin ion engines androared out into space, his squadron close behind. They slipped intoformation, Taar taking the point while his wingman slipped into hiseight. As they swept around, he counted no less than seven Borgcubes. Numbers were still on the Empire's side, but the Borg had aknack for bringing something new to the party; apparently Piett haddecided it was time to do the same."Grey leader this is Ebony leader," Taar said. It was time toput theory into practice, and hope they didn't kill themselves duringthe experiment. "We're going to cross the tee on cube three port.""Acknowledged," was the response from Lt. Starrunner. As theTIEs approached the cube, their ranks broke, shifting to a four-pointdiamond pattern. Ebony 1 took the point of the lead formation,leading the way towards the right-hand side of the Cube. At akilometer out the fomations broke away from one another, looking fortargets of opportunity. The ships began taking random dips and slidesas they approached, trying to reach that age-old balance of beingevasive while staying on target. "Prime target located," Grey 3 saidas the coordinates were sent to his targeting computer. The smallformation made a slight course change and continued - Ebony 1 still inthe lead with Grey 3 at the rear of the formation. It was a riskysituation; the Interceptors were only flying at a fraction of theirtop speed at the moment to allow him to keep in formation. But it wasthe best plan he had for the moment.The cube loomed through the transparisteel window at the frontof his TIE. This is nuts, he thought to himself. You don't go afterblockade runners with Interceptors, nevermind something like this! "Ihave a visual on the target," Taar said aloud. It seemed to be aweapons array of some kind. They raced towards it, then on cue, thetwo TIEs on his eight and four moved accelerated forward, gunsblazing. Their laser cannons splashed across the surface of thearray, but there was little to show for it. The Borg fired back,narrowly missing Ebony 2. It had been random luck that he'd survived,but turning back wasn't an option, so they continued to fire at thearray for all the good it seemed to do."Break formation!" Taar ordered, and the three ships split offfrom one another. Grey 3, now with a clear shot at the weakenedstructure, launched three concussion missiles before pulling away. Themissiles slammed into their target, vaporizing it."Ebony 2 and 3, form up," Taar ordered. "Grey 3 strafing run,we'll cover." The others acknowledged as he swung away from the cubefor the moment. Beyond it he saw the Avenger and Devastator advancingon the Borg's right flank. Turbolasers and Borg energy beamscrisscrossed space, putting their puny fighter attacks to shame. DidI say this was nuts? he thought. I mean this is pointless! It's notlike the Empire isn't going to win this fight regardless of thefighters, why did Piett tip their hand?! But it didn't fall to gruntslike him to make those calls, so instead he executed a tight spin tojoin in on this suicide run.The diamond formation quickly formed up and raced over thesurface of the cube at a mere fifteen meters. The three Interceptorstried providing cover fire for the Grey 3, who was pelting the surfacewith proton bombs. Half-way across the cube he pushed them to fullthrottle, leaving the bomber behind but hopefully providing more of adistraction by firing at targets of opportunity. But one problem withthe Borg was they just didn't take to distractions, and a greentorpedo rose up from the surface and hit the bomber, sending the twopods spiral away and crashing into the surface of the cube. "Pullup!" Taar ordered, but this time an energy beam came up and caughtEbony 2, disintegrating it. Adrenal flooding his veins, Taar put theship into a Korvel Spiral as he raced away, torpedoes filling the airaround him. Finally he pulled clear and formed up with Ebony 3."Ebony Leader to Grey Leader, we've lost our bomber." The command wasacknowledged, but apparently things hadn't been going well forStarrunner's boys. As Taar brought the ship around he saw that theBorg were laying into the Avenger and Devastator, much like they hadagainst the Tyrant. Taar's stomach tightened at the sight. The Borgdidn't care how much damage they suffered so long as they continued towear the Empire down. They could lose ten ships for every one theydestroyed, and it wouldn't matter. How do you fight someone likethat?"Grey Leader to Ebony Leader, head to point 03." Taar pulledhim and his wingmate around to return to their cube, joining up withanother set of TIEs to provide cover for the next bombing run. Thenew formation -five Interceptors and two bombers- once again skimmedthe surface, weapons lashing out at the cube. Again, as if out of nowhere, weapons fire struck at the tiny ships, vaporizing two TIEsinstantly. To avoid being struck by the weapons and debris, Taarpulled a split-S, pulling away from the cube momentarily before hisspin brought him back thirty meters behind his bombers, who continuedtheir strafing of the cube despite the attack. Taar planned toincrease speed and overshoot the bombers to provide further cover whenhe passed over one of the craters formed by a proton bomb. Taarfrowned at the information his targeting sensors were telling him."Ebony 3 do you see what I see?" he called over the comm."Yes sir," ES-13-3 replied. "What do you want to do?"Ebony 1 pulled into a tight loop and began heading for thecrater. "Put some plasma up their collective port," he told him as heopened fire on the crater. The weapons' fire managed to destroy theunshielded bottom of the crater, opening up a passage into the heartof the cube. Throttling back, the two TIEs dove into the entrance tothe Borg ship, firing at their unshielded surfaces. The cubes mayhave had the power to adapt to their laser cannons, but the raw powerwas too much for the helpless drones inside.After about seven hundred meters the two TIEs blasted theirway into a large opening inside the cube. In the center of this spacewas a large, hour-glass shaped structure with several openings alongits sides. Taar looked at his instruments. "What do you think Ebony3?""Looks like a target to me, sir," ES-13-3 called back to himover the comm.Taar smiled inside his pressure suit. "Agreed. Fire at will."The two Interceptors continued their approach, their weapons blowingaway huge chunks out of the shape. Manueverability was difficult, evenat low speeds in this confined area. Finally, their weapons shearedthrough the construct and Taar watched the huge structure collapse inon itself. Immediately, explosions began occurring throughout thecube. The two TIEs turned to continue their volley, when a nearbyexplosion knocked Ebony 3 off course and into the wall, exploding oncontact. Figuring he'd done enough damage in here, Taar headed forthe opening to go back to the surface. The series of explosions weregetting worse, and he started pushing the ship faster and faster. Thisproved to be a near fatal mistake as the passage suddenly narrowedahead. Quickly he twisted his ship on its side and dove into theopening, his lower port solar panel scraping the edge of the passage.It seems that even during that short battle, the Borg had managed torepair some of their ship. Alarms were sounding and in desperation hepushed the ship to full throttle and hoped like hell he'd get outbefore the TIE or the cube blew.Finally he rocketed out of the cube and launched back out intospace. Looking back, he saw explosions consuming various parts of thecubes, and TIEs pulling away from its surface. A stardestroyer, theStalker actually, was finishing it off with a full barrage ofturbolaser fire. Moments after he had escaped, the cube exploded. Asingle piece of debris, just a meter or so long, struck his TIE,completely searing the struts that held it to the starboard solarpanels. The ship had been on its last legs before, now it wascompletely out of control. The Interceptor wouldn't respond to hiscontrols and an energy surge was arcing through some of the panels.Systems were failing, and in an act of desperation he tried to shutdown the engines. As he touched the panel, a surge of energy passedthrough his pressurized suit and into his arm, flooding his body withpain as he seized up. His eyes glazed over, and the universe, dark asit was, became black.War has been described as long periods of boredom interruptedby short periods of excitement. At the moment, Picard felt that peacedidn't seem that different. After all the time he'd spent waiting forhis ship, and then all the time prepping for this meeting, theambassadors had taken over, and he was left twiddling his thumbs at anImperial station. It was the dawn of a new age, perhaps the mostexciting time for humanity since the discovery that we weren't alonein the universe. At the moment, Picard felt like he was stuck in ahole with his sensors off-line.Picard had been lamenting the situation with Riker when thedoor chimed. It was Seven; it seemed to always be Seven. She wasn'ta Borg, not really, but nevertheless, he had trouble letting his guarddown around her, despite how much advice she'd provided throughout themission. Maybe I've become set in my ways, he wondered. I can'tstand hyperspace, I can't stand my advisor, maybe this new age isn'tfor old men like me. "Yes?" he asked, trying to sound neutral andfailing."Admiral Thrawn has asked me to deliver a proposition to you,"Seven informed the captain in the matter-of-fact way she had. "Hesuggests that, to help bridge the gap between our civilizations, wehave an exchange of cultural history.""What exactly does he mean by that?" Riker asked. Riker hadbeen spending the time scanning comm channels, and the longer theywere delayed, the more he became suspicious of the Empire. Perhaps hewasn't ready for this new age either, Picard thought.Seven looked at the PADD. "'Poetry, art, important historicalevents, literature' were the specific examples he gave."Picard nodded; this was exactly what he needed. "Extend theadmiral our thanks, and begin assembling a historical/culturaldatabase to give to the Imperials.""Are you sure that's wise, sir?" Riker asked. "We reallyshouldn't be exchanging any information with them while thenegotiations take place."Picard smiled slightly. "I'm not giving them the access codesfor Starfleet Command, Will. An exchange of culture would be a healthyway to start this meeting, not to mention give us a chance to get toknow the Empire a little better.""Honestly, sir, I think I'm getting to know them quite well.""Will, there's healthy skepticism, and there's paranoia. I'msure there's nothing to fear in letting Admiral Thrawn examine ourworks of art."On board the Redemption. Mon Mothma stepped up to the centralplatform. The high-ranking members of the Alliance were present; theyknew only that something urgent had come in, and rumors were it wasn'tgood. From her grave tone, it seemed that would prove to be true."We've all been wondering what is going on lately, why the Emperor hasdiverted ships and changed his personal agenda so much over the pasttwo months. We now have an answer." A hologram of a section of thegalaxy appeared, focusing in on one particular area until the wholesector was revealed. "Located near the Napuli System is a wormhole toanother galaxy. The wormhole was discovered when ships from the otherside invaded our galaxy."A small murmur of discussion began. Mon Mothma had to speakup in order to be heard. "One is an antagonistic race called the Borg,who attacked and destroyed one of the Star Destroyers in that area.""I take it that's not the good news we'd like to think it is,"Lando said."No. The data our spies have gathered shows that they willattack anyone without provocation. They're extremely dangerous toeveryone, regardless of what side they're on.""Dangerous enough that we should be worried?" Leia asked. "Isthere a chance that they'd destroy the Empire and threaten all of us?""It's not likely," Mon Mothma said."Will we help the Empire, if the situation comes down to it?"Leia asked.Mon Mothma hesitated. "Let's hope we won't have to make thatchoice.""Well, regardless of whose side they're on, at least it'ssomething to keep the Empire busy," Han pointed out."Yes," Mon Mothma replied, "and it's doing just that. TheEmpire has sent a fleet in to deal with the Borg threat, and greatersecurity has been set up in that area of the galaxy.""You said 'one,'" Wedge said. "I take it the Borg weren'talone."No," Mon Mothma said. "The Empire has had some dealings withanother group from the other side of the wormhole. They have alreadygiven information and technology to the Empire, and our spies indicatethey are planning on opening diplomatic relations with the Empire."Leia finally spoke up. "What exactly is the position of thisgroup?" she asked. "What do they want in return for their aide?""From what our sources have gathered, an alliance," Mon Mothmaanswered. The members of the Alliance looked at one another. TheEmpire alone was bad enough. If they had new allies, allies with newtechnology, then it was grim news for the struggling rebellion. "Itseems that we have a new enemy," she said, "and it's called theFederation."CHAPTER VII.Taar opened his eyes slowly. There was a white blur in frontof him, slowly solidifying as the seconds ticked by until shapesemerged. Finally, his vision seemed to clear up and he checked at hisarm. Yes, it was still there. Good. As advanced as cybernetics was,he'd heard about more than one pilot who just couldn't handle a craftthe same again. There's something about the feel of a ship that can'tbe duplicated by a piece of technology.Taar gave the room the once over. The medlab didn't look likethe one on the Stalker; was he on the Executor? Before he could thinkmore about it the door opened; it was an aide rather than a medicaldroid. This likely meant things were about to get worse. "Goodmorning," the aide said as amicably as possible. "Glad to see thatyou've returned to consciousness; we've got some matters to clear up.It won't take but a moment." He pulled out datapad. "First, your suitwas completely overloaded, so we don't even have a name for you."Taar winced slightly as he started to sit up. "Lt. DelricTaar, ES-13-1 stationed on board the star destroyer Stalker."The aide nodded slightly, "A squadron commander... good foryou."Whatever, Taar thought. Save your condescension for someoneelse. "What's the status of Ebony Squadron? How many survivors?""I'm asking the questions," the aide said sharply. "You cancheck their status later, lieutenant." He paused briefly and thencontinued. "I assume you were forced to abandon your craft?""Yes, there was-" Taar paused. So much had happened so fast."The cube exploded, the debris hit my craft. I was lucky to get outalive.""Mm," the aid responded with the expected degree of sympathy."Yes, well, everything seems to be in order," the aide concluded. Itwas, after all, just a TIE; the Empire lost a few every day. If Taarhad lost a shuttle it would have involved an accident investigation,but this drew little more than a glance. "The med-droid says you'llbe fit for duty the day after tomorrow. You'll have your orders then."Then he turned and strode out.With effort, Taar pulled himself up, silently cursing allbureaucrats everywhere. "I'm asking the questions," he thought, andit comes down to name and why his ship went kabloowie. Tiny men inthe grand scheme who push around bits in a datapad; just let me fly myship and lead my men and I'll do whatever you want. He searchedaround until he found his code cylinder and plugged into the network.With a slight note of surprise, he saw that he was on Base One, notthe Executor. They must have evacuated some of the wounded to savespace. He went on to check what information there was about the latestbattle with the Borg. It didn't paint a pretty picture. It had beena victory, of course, but they'd lost the Devastator. This was a bigsetback, even though it wasn't readily apparent. Not only had thatleft the Imperial forces weaker, it also meant the Borg could winbattles due to sheer attrition. The Emperor's plan wasn't working;the Borg weren't backing off, they were testing the Empire's limits.They were planning something... he just hoped the admiral was capableenough to see that and call in some reinforcements.Taar's stomach tightened into a knot as he looked at thefighter results. Only three of the pilots from Ebony squadronsurvived, himself included. Starrunner and his boys had beencompletely wiped out as well. At least they hadn't died for nothing;the stats showed that weapons fire from the cubes Ebony and Greysquadrons had attacked dropped by 38%. It was good from a tacticalstandpoint, but losing so many of his men made it a bitter pill toswallow.Taar disconnected from the network and tried to sleep. He wasexhausted, but sleep didn't come easy. His mind was filled withimages of Borg drones being cut down by his laser cannons and of thatcube exploding from the inside out. He wanted to do that again... hewanted to fly in there and blow the living crap out of them, likepouring gasoline down an anthill and lighting a match. He forcedhimself to put his thoughts aside and rest. Only if he properlyrecovered would he get the chance to relive that vision.The Emperor opened his eyes and watched Mara Jade continuingher exercises. At the moment she was trying to move multiple objectswith her mind. Her frustration with her failure was obvious. "Good,"he said, causing her to jerk slightly at his sudden comment. "Angeris a source of power. Reach in and harness it, feel the hate flowingthrough you, empowering you!" Mara nodded and went at it again withrenewed vigor. Soon objects were swirling around the throne room likea whirlwind. They dropped when the Emperor's haunting chuckle reachedher ears. "Good, very good. You're learning well, my youngapprentice." He paused as the door opened and Darth Vader appeared.Vader's walk slowed as he approached the throne, noting Mara'spresence. There was an undercurrent of mutual hate. "Leave us," theEmperor told the girl, and she nodded and walked out. Vader steppedbefore the Emperor and kneeled, rising only when he was told to."I sense something is troubling you, my friend," the Emperorsaid."Yes, master." Vader paused. "'And there shall forever be nomore than two, one the master, and one his student, lest the way ofthe Sith be lost forever.'" Vader said, quoting the words of DarthBane that had ensured the survival of the Sith for millennia. "Havewe given up on old ways?""Yes, we have," the Emperor said matter-of-factly. "No longerdo we lurk in the shadows, fearing the Jedi. I felt the disturbancewhen that little green imp died; and with him dies the ways of theJedi. We are the only ones now who have the power of the Force, andit is time we used it to the fullest.""And so you train this one?" Vader asked. "She is nothingmore than a convenient spy-""I will decide who I will train," the Emperor said sharply. "Itrain her as I will the young Skywalker. That was, after all, yoursuggestion, Lord Vader." The Emperor gave a moment to reflect on thatfact. "I have foreseen her, Vader, leading our forces against ourenemies, with your son at her side.""So he will join us.""Oh yes. The details are difficult to see, but he willembrace the power of the dark side.""Forgive my doubt, my master," Vader said with a nod ofrespect.The Emperor nodded in return. "What is the status of theDeath Star?""It will be finished within the next ninety days, my master.""I see it's not on schedule.""No, the men have been suitably disciplined."The Emperor's throne rotated slightly. "It is of noconsequence. It will serve its purpose when needed. I have summonedyou for an entirely different reason." Vader waited patiently, hismechanical breathing the only sound filling the chamber. "I havenearly completed negotiations with diplomats from the Federation, apuny civilization in the galaxy beyond the wormhole. You will travelwith the diplomatic corps that returns to their homeworld.""Why should we be concerned with this insignificant group?"Vader asked."Because, the Federation is our foothold, Lord Vader. Throughthem, we will seize control of their entire galaxy."The Lambda-class shuttle slipped into hyperspace as Lt. Taarmoved into the cockpit of the small craft. He was the only passengeron board the tiny shuttle, just him and a hold full of technicalequipment sent out to rendezvous with the fleet on the front line.Taar wondered what was happening out there. The last engagement hadbeen the one he'd been in, just under a week ago. The Borg hadactually bloodied the Empire's nose that time, it should have onlystrengthened their resolve... if Borg could have resolve, that is.Instead they'd pulled back, left their worlds undefended. No, theywere up to something, and he didn't think he was going to like it whenhe found it."So, why are you being sent off to Borg central?" the pilotasked in an off the cuff way.Taar looked him over for a moment before replying. "I'mrendezvousing with my star destroyer. I was sent back to Base One toget stitched up after the last engagement.""Ah, let me guess, TIE pilot, right?""That's right," Taar said with disinterest.The man gave a low whistle. "You know, they got twocategories for TIE fighter pilots: rookies, and frozen meat.""Right," was Taar's only reply as he tried to ignore thepilot. He didn't seem to take the hint."Happiest day of my life was when I was assigned totransports," the pilot said with a grin. "The Imperial meat grinderis not the place for me, no thank you

Good stuff. Looking forward to the next 36 chapters.

 

[Daywalker]

I know it's been said once already, but not nearly enough. I'm very excited for new star wars material. But I think a new Indiana Jones movie with real actors and a real director would be just awesome.

Would love to see Dicaprio in Indy prequels. Should have been River Phoenix but Leo will do.

 

[netnalp]

Maybe Joseph Gordon-Levitt for new Han Solo?

 

[Daywalker]

Maybe Joseph Gordon-Levitt for new Han Solo?

Is the guy from Serenity too old?

 

[SWC]

i remember the first three in the the theaters and it was awesome then i remember watching the next three at home and being really disappointed especially the first one where the kid is racing around he was frankly terrible but the special effects were good the last one of the new three was ok but the first three were just the best i hope that they can recapture that and take this to the bank again

 

[Rayderr]

I'm hoping for a backstory on how Midichlorian came to be and why only some people are infected by it and why more people aren't intentionally exposing themselves to it.

 

[Disco Stu]

I'm hoping for a backstory on how Midichlorian came to be and why only some people are infected by it and why more people aren't intentionally exposing themselves to it.

Zombies.

 

[Bull Dozier]

Didn't they sort of kill Vader and the Emperor?

Yea, there's kind of a #### ton more to Star Wars then just those 2 guys.

There is a ton more, except the six movies as presented to us is the story of Anakin Skywalker; his rise, fall, and redemption.Annoucning an Episode 7 and trying to go with a continuation of the story would be a mistake in my book. The current story told is a mistake. IMO, they should go with a "Next Generation" type deal and instroduce an all new cast of characters, and start a new story ark. Lucas already messed up the continuity of the story by not matching the new movies to what was implied to have happened as told in the original triology (no offense to Andy Dufresne and his apologia), but to try to continue to add and be confined by what has happened seems to limiting to me to continue to make a compelling storyline. Just start over.

 

[Disco Stu]

Problem is Yoda an Obi are in hiding. I don't think it would work for them to be heavily involved in the resistance.

It wouldn't really go against canon to say that they didn't sit out those twenty years between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope. IIRC, they never said that they sat on the sidelines that entire time. They might even be able to tie it into Empire Strikes Back with the whole cave on Dagobah thing that Luke went into.

"Obi-Wan Kenobi? Obi-Wan. Now there's a name I've not heard in a long, long time. A long time."

 

[KarmaPolice]

I know it's cool to hate on Episodes 1-3, but I didn't think 2 and 3 were that bad.

I look back at 4-6 with a different eye thanks to the new ones, and realize that the annoying #### people ##### about were all in the originals, but our we look at them through our rose colored glasses of our youth. There was bad acting then - Hamil's not about to win any acting awards, I think C3PO is almost as annoying as Jar Jar, and just about everybody hates on the Ewoks. Lucas had a thankless task of telling a story that was so loved and everybody already knew the ending to. Sprinkle in bad child acting, Jar Jar, and took much talk of trade federations and crap like that and have a higher risk of a crap sandwich.

I am excited for 2 reasons:

1. The less Lucas has to do with directing the better.

2. By that time my 6 year old will be right at the age where seeing Episode 7 will be a big deal, and I can't wait to watch some Star Wars with him.

 

[The Ref]

I'm hoping for a backstory on how Midichlorian came to be and why only some people are infected by it and why more people aren't intentionally exposing themselves to it.

It was mentioned for 1 min during phantom and never brought up again. The concept was supposed to play a bigger part in II and III, but as it turns out Lucas didn't know what the F he was doing.

 

[The Ref]

I know it's cool to hate on Episodes 1-3, but I didn't think 2 and 3 were that bad.

2 and 3 "weren't that bad" because Lucas knew how bad a script/movie Phantom was and actually allowed for critical feedback.

 

[Psychopav]

More, Bently. More.

 

[timschochet]

I know it's going to be treated as heresy, but if I were in charge, I'd simply remake the first movie. Worked for Star Trek. Worked for Spiderman. Just remake the first film with an all new cast, and modern special effects. Maybe cast Josh Holloway from Lost as Han Solo.

 

[NewlyRetired]

1. The less Lucas has to do with directing writing/story the better.

 

[Psychopav]

I know it's going to be treated as heresy, but if I were in charge, I'd simply remake the first movie. Worked for Star Trek. Worked for Spiderman. Just remake the first film with an all new cast, and modern special effects. Maybe cast Josh Holloway from Lost as Han Solo.

Are you ever right about anything?

 

[timschochet]

I know it's going to be treated as heresy, but if I were in charge, I'd simply remake the first movie. Worked for Star Trek. Worked for Spiderman. Just remake the first film with an all new cast, and modern special effects. Maybe cast Josh Holloway from Lost as Han Solo.

Are you ever right about anything?

Most of the time. I'm certainly right about this.

 

[Rayderr]

I know it's going to be treated as heresy, but if I were in charge, I'd simply remake the first movie. Worked for Star Trek. Worked for Spiderman. Just remake the first film with an all new cast, and modern special effects. Maybe cast Josh Holloway from Lost as Han Solo.

Technically, they didn't remake the first movie. It was both a sequel and a prequel thanks to the time travelling of Spock, and resulted in an laternate timeline being formed, so the encounter with V-Ger still happened.

 

[timschochet]

I know it's going to be treated as heresy, but if I were in charge, I'd simply remake the first movie. Worked for Star Trek. Worked for Spiderman. Just remake the first film with an all new cast, and modern special effects. Maybe cast Josh Holloway from Lost as Han Solo.

Technically, they didn't remake the first movie. It was both a sequel and a prequel thanks to the time travelling of Spock, and resulted in an laternate timeline being formed, so the encounter with V-Ger still happened.

I know that. My point is they took all the main characters and re-branded them with new, young actors. That's what I would do here.

 

[Rayderr]

I know it's going to be treated as heresy, but if I were in charge, I'd simply remake the first movie. Worked for Star Trek. Worked for Spiderman. Just remake the first film with an all new cast, and modern special effects. Maybe cast Josh Holloway from Lost as Han Solo.

Technically, they didn't remake the first movie. It was both a sequel and a prequel thanks to the time travelling of Spock, and resulted in an laternate timeline being formed, so the encounter with V-Ger still happened.

I know that. My point is they took all the main characters and re-branded them with new, young actors. That's what I would do here.

My point is that you were wrong to call it a remake.

 

[Bobcat10]

This is good news no matter how much anyone loves/hates ep1-3. If these suck, move on. If they are good, the people who see them win.

 

[Psychopav]

Seriously, Bently. WTF? Start a new thread or a blog if you have to...

eta: the point being, want more asap k thx bye.

 

[shake zula]

No interest in:

The Truce at Bakura?

or

The Yuuzhan Vong War?

I thought the books were good and provide at least a decent premise.

 

[Mario Kart]

This will not be the Star Wars you are looking for.

Luke, Vader and the gang will probably not even be involved. They won't revamp the name but explain another part of the whole Star Wars universe.

Characters won't be recognized as they will be new. Places may be much different. No Tatooine or Hoth or Naboo.

I would not mind seeing the rise of the clone army with the building of the Death Star. All those private contractors who died with the second Death Star might be a good story. All I'm saying is we will not recognize this new Star Wars.

 

[Psychopav]

This will not be the Star Wars you are looking for.Luke, Vader and the gang will probably not even be involved. They won't revamp the name but explain another part of the whole Star Wars universe. Characters won't be recognized as they will be new. Places may be much different. No Tatooine or Hoth or Naboo. I would not mind seeing the rise of the clone army with the building of the Death Star. All those private contractors who died with the second Death Star might be a good story. All I'm saying is we will not recognize this new Star Wars.

Link? Or rank speculation on your part?

 

[Officer Pete Malloy]

Possible script. I have been working on this for quite awhile. hope you all enjoy.WORLDS WITHOUT END REDUXAct ICHAPTER I.In the endless void between the stars the mile-long form of astarship moved silently, its chalk-white surface in perfect contrastwith the infinite night. The almost casual motion of this ship andits two escorts was quietly observed. Star Destroyers, a powerfulfront-line ship for the Galactic Empire, and a source of terror acrossits territory. The recent arms race with the guerrilla movement tooverthrow their leadership had continued to push their weaponstechnology further. It is this short time right now when that Empirewould be at its strongest, when they have their most advancedtechnologies and an intact chain of command."Yes," said a voice with satisfaction, unconcerned with suchphysical limitations on sound in a vacuum. "This will do nicely."When those words were spoken, a change took place that was tobe felt across the universe. In some parts of the galaxy, somespecial individuals noticed inexplicable feelings of uncertainty anddread. For the two remaining masters of the Force, each the polaropposite of his counterpart, it produced a disturbance unlike any theyhad ever experienced in their long lives. And while these two werewont to agree on anything, both could sense the potential doom thathad come into being.On the other side of the universe a hopelessly mismatchedbattle was about to come to its inevitable conclusion. One was theFederation Starship Voyager, which has been cut off from its peoplefor over five years. Its opponent was a gigantic ship belonging tothe Federation's greatest enemy: the Borg. Unlike Voyager, it washeavily-armed and effectively shielded, and there was no doubt whowould be the victor. But as it happened, this single battle betweentwo rather insignificant ships was in fact the most important one inall of history, although neither side knew it."Any signs of other vessels in the vicinity," asked CaptainKathryn Janeway, commander of Voyager."Negative, captain," Ens. Kim replied. "No other vessels inrange of our sensors."The ship rocked under the impact of another Borg weapon."Direct hit, Deck 12," reported Lt. Tuvok at Tactical.Janeway's first officer, Comm. Chakotay, stepped to her side.In all crises he was her closest advisor. Unfortunately, there waslittle to offer under the present circumstances. "Maybe there'ssomewhere we can hide," he offered, "at least for a little while. Giveus a chance to patch the ship together."The ship was struck again, and below in Astrometrics, Seven ofNine was hastily examining their sensor readings. The fact that shewas a Borg herself was only relevant in that she knew what she wasfighting to escape. If there was any irony in her mind being pittedagainst the hive collective that had trained her it was lost on her."Anything that can provide some cover?" Janeway asked over the comm."Nothing yet, captain," Seven replied, her voice even despitethe anxiousness of the moment. Seven was not one to panic, regardlessof the situation. She was adjusting the long-range sensors in thevain hope of finding something when her console began to beep for herattention. She tapped the panel and her brow furrowed in momentaryconfusion. "Captain," she said, "Sensors have picked up what appearsto be a wormhole less than five hundred thousand kilometers fromhere."The ship shuddered again, and Seven could feel the explosivedecompression despite the room's seal. They wouldn't last muchlonger. "How the hell did we miss that?" Janeway asked. "It'spractically on our doorstep.""I'm not sure," Seven said, looking at the readings. "But itis a wormhole." She continued tapping the panel as she analyzed thereadings. "Stable, but I have no idea where it leads." Seven'sstomach twisted as the inertial dampeners failed for a fraction of asecond. She passed the coordinates on to Navigation."Away from here, and that's good enough for me," Janeway said."Alter course, Mr. Paris."Voyager turned tightly, and the cube altered direction topursue. Not long after, space opened up and swallowed both of themwithout a trace.Standing on the main deck of the Star Destroyer Incaciad,Admiral Thrawn gazed at the space beyond. His crew was far too busyensuring the smooth running of the ship to pay much attention, andeven less time to wonder what he might be looking at, or thinkingabout. It was a pointless exercise anyway; few could understand allthat went on behind those alien eyes, and yes he was alien. Hisascent to his current rank did nothing to change that fact in theminds of the Imperial Navy, although it mattered little to those underhis command. Whatever feelings they might have for non-humans weresuspended for the grand admiral, and newcomers to the ship werequickly educated in that fact by his crew. It takes extraordinaryeffort to overcome a prejudice; but then, there was nothing ordinaryabout Thrawn.As it happened, he was thinking about the future, and how thegalaxy was going to change soon. The Empire was constructing a secondDeath Star at Endor, supposedly more powerful than the first. Ratherredundant in Thrawn's estimation; a planet-destroying weapon's onlyreal benefit was in overwhelming planetary shields, which the firstDeath Star was quite capable of doing. Even then, in practicalmilitary terms it wasn't a terribly effective weapon. Perhaps toeliminate the center of your enemies' leadership or to terrify apopulace into surrender, but what good, in the end, was blowing up aplanet you want to conquer? The Death Star was useful, but the extraeffort was a bit of a waste in Thrawn's estimation.According to the secret communication, the Death Star'sconstruction was behind, and Darth Vader and the Emperor would overseethe final stages of construction in person. Yes, the Emperor wasleaving the impenetrable security of Coruscant to personally observethe construction of an inoperable and defenseless battlestation.Seemed rather obvious a trap, but the Rebels had been sufferingseveral setbacks, and the Emperor's rather obvious trap did have aparticularly attractive piece of bait. He considered who might becommanding the Imperial forces; probably Piett. Not a bad commander,but not a very brilliant tactician either.Thrawn was just considering some attack scenarios, were he incharge, when he heard one of the crewmen speaking to Captain Jarrol."Sir, two ships have appeared on our scope."Thrawn turned around and looked down towards the young man.There was almost a sense of casualness about the way he acted. "Out ofhyperspace?""No sir," the crewman quickly responded to Thrawn, "they justappeared out of nowhere.""Indeed," replied Thrawn, still nonplused. "Let's have alook," he said as he stepped towards the control station. He didn'twaste time telling the crew to raise the shields; they knew what heexpected of them. He examined the ships for several seconds. Theywere clearly alien, and they didn't share any similar designs. Thesmaller ship was visibly damaged, but if the larger cube-shaped vesselwas responsible, it showed no interest in making the kill just yet."Admiral," Jarrol said, returning from a quick discussion withhis deck officer, "we have an intruder on board. Engineering.""I assume you're not referring to a rebel spy.""No," Jarrol said. "According to witnesses it appeared out ofthin air.""'It?'" Thrawn replied. Jarrol offered him the datapad andThrawn looked at the intruder. Mechanical components, but obviously aliving thing. "A cyborg," he said quietly."It made no threatening motions," Jarrol continued. "But whenit didn't heed instructions it was shot. They're taking it to theinfirmary to study it."Thrawn looked up from the datapad to the two ships beyond thewindows. "So," he asked no one in particular, "which one did you comefrom?""Sir, we're receiving a hail from the cubical vessel," anofficer reported. The sudden voice was chilling, as if a millionvoices were speaking as one in some horrible chant. "We are the Borg.We have analyzed your defensive capabilities and judged them to beinadequate. Lower your shields and surrender your ships. We will addyour distinctiveness to our own. You will adapt to service us.Resistance is futile."On board the battered remains of Voyager, Captain Janeway rosefrom her chair. "Hail them again."Lt. Tuvok sent the message, but... "No response.""Captain," Harry Kim said anxiously, "the Borg have beamedover to the alien ship, the center one.""How many drones?""One." Ens. Kim checks his instruments. "They must have beamedover while their shields were still down."Janeway turned to her first officer, unable to hide herconfusion. "Why would they not answer our hails? If they werehostile, why haven't they fired? If they're peaceful, why ignore us?""Perhaps their communication technology is incompatible with ours," heoffered."We did receive energy readings earlier which may have been acommunication device," Tuvok informed them.Janeway turned, her hand stroking her chin. Finally shewalked towards the turbolift with a quick gait. "Analyze thosesignals, see if you can communicate with them. I'll be in engineering- we still have a ship to put back together."Thrawn watched the Cube advance. It was certainly big, butthere was no visible sign of any armored defenses, a rather oddconstruction given the appearance of the cyborg below. "Flank them,"Thrawn ordered, and the Kartinian and Lucinda advanced on the Cubewhile the Incaciad moved into position. "Have the fighter crewsstanding by," he ordered, "but don't launch until my order.""Commander," Tuvok said, "the energy signal the Borg sentearlier was similar in nature to the one we received from the alienvessels. It might be their method of communication.""Look at modifying our communications equipment to broadcastusing those signals," Chakotay said. "Whatever their intentions,we've got to warn them before the Borg try something.""Looks like we're too late for that," Tom Paris, Voyager'spilot, said as Chakotay's attention returned to the screen. "It'sheading right for them."Chakotay took a deep breath. "Let's hope they learn quickly,"he said quietly."Use the Ion Cannons," Thrawn said, his voice with a steeledge to it. "Perhaps we can take it intact."Silvery-blue beams launched from the three star destroyers,washing over the Cube's surface. It was clear that they were strikingthe ship itself, but there was no noticeable effect, not even on thesensors."Cease fire," Thrawn said. There was an unusual tone to hisvoice, as if he were about to make a chess move right into a trap thathe could feel was there but couldn't quite see. "Turbolasers," heordered.While the message was relayed to the stations Jarrol steppedover to Thrawn's side. "Shall we launch our missiles as well?" heasked.Thrawn didn't answer at first, he just stared at the image ofthe cyborg on his datapad. "No," he said finally. "And no fighters.Just fire our lasers and let's see what happens."Due to the sheer size of the Borg Cube the star destroyersturned their ships so the heavy turbolaser batteries on their dorsalside could all be brought to bear, much like it did during a BaseDelta Zero. That much firepower could normal eradicate all life on aworld in little time, and with the rate the plasma bolts tore throughthe tritanium hull of the Cube it seemed that would be the case hereas well.But for the Borg the purpose of the attack wasn't to fight, itwas to learn about this new species. Their scans had revealed newtypes of technology, and what little information their lost drone hadgathered indicated that there was some that could be of use to theCollective. Because even though they had been cut off from the hivemind, the Borg never for a moment deviated from their purpose: toconsume technology and cultures that would increase their ownperfection. That it would involve their own destruction wasn't even afactor.The Voyager bridge crew watched in amazement as the cube wasslowly torn to pieces by the aliens with few retaliatory shots oftheir own. The last time they'd seen anything like this--the onlytime actually--was Species 8472. It was clear that Chakotay wasn'tthe only one thinking that. "It doesn't look like the Borg haveadapted yet," Harry Kim observed."I don't think they'll get the chance," Chakotay said as acorner ten times Voyager's size broke off from the main mass of theCube.Paris swiveled nervously in his pilot's chair. "I hate to bethe pessimist here," he remarked, his eyes glued to the screen. "But,I have a feeling they're not going to just ignore us after they'rethrough with the Borg."Chakotay had been thinking the same thing. "Any progress,Tuvok?""I believe I have the answer," Tuvok said, "but I am unable tosend the response.""Was the comm system damaged?" Chakotay asked as he camearound to the tactical panel."Negative. But there is a powerful distortion field that'sblocking our ability to communicate.""Some kind of energy noise," Harry Kim said. "It's playinghavoc with our sensors as well. I think it's coming from those alienships."Any further discussion was halted when the Cube ruptured in aseries of smaller explosions as individual power distribution nodesfailed. Random debris scattered across space, buffeting Voyager withshrapnel. Mercifully the shields held, but as they watched the threeships responsible close on their location it was clear that was wherethere good fortune ended.It was fifty thousand lightyears from where the battle justended to the Imperial capital of Coruscant, but for a master of theForce distance was something that happened to other people. TheEmperor hadn't moved since he had summoned Mara Jade hours before. Hismeditation was so deep she wondered if he would ever return. It wasclear why she had been called here; with Vader overseeing constructionon the Death Star she was the only one left who could feel that he wasstill alive. Even this deep there was no mistaking the powerfulimpression he left on the fabric of life, a neutron star on the rubbersheet that was the Force. Despite herself Mara jumped when he spoke."There is a great disturbance in the force.""Yes master, you have told me." She tried to disguise herfear. There was something different about him, but she was afraid toprobe it for fear of rebuke or, even worse, actually discovering whatit was."No, not that. No mere Jedi can do this. This issomething... alien."Mara Jade had received little training in the Force, so shecould only wait while her master pondered what he'd felt. He seemedto reach a decision. "You will remain here with me on Coruscant."That hadn't been what she'd expected. "But, I was to killSkywalker.""He is no longer a cause for concern," the Emperor saidflatly. "We must prepare for an even greater challenge." He stood upand reached out for Mara. "Come." Mara climbed the steps and thenknelt before him. "Are you prepared to give up the life you have leduntil now? Will you leave that person behind, if it meant limitlesspower at my side?""Yes, my master," she said. Immediately she felt her mindstabbed. It was hate, a cold hate, a hate that was born fromisolation in the frozen stars, a hate weaned on pain and nurtured byabandonment and isolation. It was a hatred so black it consumed thelight, boundless and barren, it allowed no room for pity or mercy orcompassion, but it offered a strength that Mara could never haveimagined.It had been an instant, and it had been forever, but thesensation ended and Mara found herself panting on the stairs to theEmperor's throne. "Rise," he ordered, but with a touch of friendshipto his voice. "It is time to begin your training, my youngapprentice."CHAPTER II.On a small, isolated world in a back corner of the galaxy thatthe universe seemed to have forgotten, there was a single settlement.On this world sat a tiny mud hut which happened to be the home of oneof the two most powerful masters of the Force that lived. If any hadsomehow found themselves in this particular area of the swampy planetthey would have heard the sound of a heated argument between thatmaster and a particularly unruly student."Unfortunate that I know the truth?!" Luke Skywalkerexclaimed, unable to restrain his frustration. To have spent yearsbelieving that his father had been a champion of good only to learnthat he was the very symbol of darkness wasn't easy, and the fact thathis teachers had deliberately perpetuated that illusion made it allthe more painful. Darth Vader, greatest enemy of all Luke held dear,was his own father. Considering the weight of that statement, he wastaking it pretty well."Not ready for the burden were you," Yoda said wearily,although Luke wasn't really listening. The master coughed, butwhether it was to get his attention or just succumbing to his age wasunclear. "There is a great evil coming. Stopped it must be. Timeyou will have, but squander it you must not. Mind what you havelearned, save you it can." He was interrupted by another coughingfit. "Hear, and remember: Once you start down the dark path," hewarned with a choke in his voice, "forever will it dominate yourdestiny."Luke could sense his master's lifeforce starting to fade, andhis own concerns were pushed aside. "Master Yoda..." he saidimpotently, knowing that very soon he'd be gone, just like Ben... justlike so many people he'd cared about. It was so hard to keep buryingthe people he loved, and now, when this horrible truth was placedbefore him, the one he most needed to guide him was going to die too.Master Yoda, sensing his fear, spoke to him, his voice brokenas he struggled for every breath. "There... is... another...Skywalker." And with that, he vanished.After taking a few moments to come to terms with his grief,Luke exited the small hut and walked towards his ship. Artoo, themost loyal droid ever built, warbled at him with concern. Even hecould tell something was wrong, and there definitely was. This washis burden now; Ben, Biggs, Uncle Owen, Aunt Beru, and now even MasterYoda, they were all gone, leaving him to face this impossible task. "Ican't do it, Artoo," he said quietly, more to himself than to hisdroid. The emptiness weighed on his soul. "I can't go on alone.""Yoda will always be with you," a distant voice told him, andit took Luke a moment to realize he'd actually heard it out loud."Obi-Wan," Luke said, feeling a mix of emotions. He was gladfor the company of his long lost friend, but the lie was so fresh inhis mind he couldn't hide his sense of betrayal. "Why didn't you tellme?"The shade sat on a log and Luke joined him, listening as theold man explained what had happened. His father had been the championthat he had remembered, but the promises of the dark side in the endhad been too much for him. He had fallen... become so afraid oflosing the woman he cared about that he'd become the agent of the evilthe two of them had always fought so hard to stop. That was why Lukehad been hidden away, to save him from the same fate as his mother;and so had she. "Leia," Luke said, the answer suddenly so clear."Leia is my sister.""Your insight serves you well," Obi-Wan said with approval.Luke knew what he meant, that this wasn't his burden alone. Ifhe could train his sister in the ways of the Force, if she too becamea Jedi, there might be a way to accomplish the impossible. "There isstill good in him," Luke told the elder. "Perhaps together-""You have time," Obi-Wan said, "but not as much as you mightthink. You must prepare yourself for the destiny that awaits you. Youface not only Darth Vader, but the Emperor and the forces of evil. Donot take Yoda's warning lightly." Luke could sense his teacher'sanxiety. "I'm afraid that in the trials to come you will face enemiesmore powerful than you can possibly imagine."Luke was resolute. "I can save him." There was no doubt inhis mind."You must do what you must," Obi-Wan said. "But never forgetwhat he is. Whatever has happened, destiny is clear. You will faceDarth Vader again."Traveling across the universe, a single message defied physicsby exceeding the speed of light due to a few scientifictechnicalities. Even then, it took centuries to cross the greatemptiness between galaxies. It was a perfect metaphor for theeventual recipients: unfeeling, ever patient, inevitable. The Borgare not so much a force of arms as they are a force of nature. Andwhen they received the message and learned about the existence of arace with new technology to acquire, their reaction was predictable.Unfeeling, and ever patient. It would be theirs; it was inevitable.Captain Janeway and her senior officers stood at attention inthe main shuttlebay as they watched the Imperial ship dock. There wasa palatable excitement in the room as the door opened and the firstmember of the Galactic Empire set foot on a Federation starship. Hoursbefore, they had feared it would be as a conqueror."They defeated the Borg," Janeway had said with dismay asChakotay filled her in from the bridge.Her first officer nodded. "They made it look easy. We werenervous for a little while, but once Tuvok contacted them we were ableto explain the situation. They're called the Galactic Empire.""I guess that means we're a little farther from home than wethought," Janeway said.Chakotay nodded. "Harry estimates we're on the other side ofthe known universe. Fortunately the wormhole is still stable, but I'mnot sure heading back yet is such a good idea.""Agreed," Janeway said. "The last thing we need are more Borglooking for their missing cube.""Admiral Thrawn has offered to tow us to an Imperial stationwhere we can repair the ship."And that was the man: Admiral Thrawn. The man who haddestroyed a Borg Cube in minutes, and who had brought their ship tothe station for repairs. What they hadn't realized was that thestation was one hundred eighty light-years away, a journey of severalweeks for Voyager. The Incaciad had done it in eleven minutes. Asthe captain of a ship trapped thirty-five thousand light-years fromhome, that wasn't the kind of thing you failed to notice. With thatability, Voyager could be home in days, and Janeway was ready to doanything to get her hands on it, even if she had to resort to stealingit.Janeway stepped forward and greeted Admiral Thrawn. His skinwas blue, and his red eyes were rather intimidating, but he wore afriendly enough expression as she approached. He was polite as shemade introductions and then began a tour of their ship. Eventually,he seemed to steer the conversation in a different direction."I'm rather interested in that ship you were fighting," Thrawnsaid as they left astrometrics. "The Borg?""The Borg," Janeway said, briefly reflected on her ownexperience with them. "Not exactly the friendliest of races from ourside of the wormhole.""Certainly not very personable," Thrawn agreed. "Are theyyour enemies?""Only in the sense that we exist," Janeway said as theyentered the turbolift for the lower decks. "The Borg don't see anyonebesides themselves as anything except raw materials.""Charming," Thrawn said as they exited the lift. A short wayup the corridor Janeway directed him to a door on the right."This is our transporter room," Janeway said.Thrawn looked about it, his brow furrowed. "I'm not quitesure I understand."Janeway gestured towards the transporter pad. "This deviceallows us to break down matter in one location and reconstitute it inanother." She was starting to feel hopeful; if this was technologyalien to the Empire she could possibly trade it for their owntechnology: the hyperdrive."You do this with people?" he said, attempting to hide hisdistaste."It's perfectly safe," Janeway said a bit too quickly.Thrawn tapped his lips as he looked at the pad and thecontrols thoughtfully. "I could see how it could be useful in movinglarge amounts of cargo," he said finally."I'm so glad to hear you say that," Janeway said with a smilethat would put a Ferengi to shame.In a different part of the galaxy, near Sullust, Luke wastedlittle time in shedding his flight suit and heading down to themeeting room in Home One. He wasn't certain what was being discussed,but he knew it would revolve around the Emperor's new Death Star.Having already gone against one, he was leery about a repeatperformance.In a group like the Rebel Alliance there's always an attemptto maintain military command and discipline, but in the end you aredealing with just bush pilots, pirates, and militia. The noise of themany arguments was a bit surprising, so Luke quickly slid over towhere Leia Organa and Han Solo, his closest friends, were sitting."What's going on?" he asked, noting the scowl on Han's face."Just five hundred people with five hundred different ideasabout how we should end the war," Han said cynically."The Emperor has changed his plans," Leia said. Her face wasa mask, but he could sense the conflict in her. She seemed uncertainabout what they should do herself. "Originally he was going toinspect the Death Star, but now he seems content to wait for them toget on schedule themselves."Luke understood. "We were hoping to take advantage of it.""Exactly," Lando Calrissian said, taking a seat next to Luke."The old man never leaves Coruscant, it would've been the perfectopportunity to take him out of the picture for good.""The Emperor is incidental," General Blissex said emphaticallyas the argument toned down slightly. "The Death Star is a weapon ofunimaginable destruction and it must be destroyed.""Agreed," General Madine said, "But at what cost? We preparedfor this assault knowing we had an opportunity to behead the Empire.Without the Emperor the Death Star is a less important target.""We need to do this now," Admiral Ackbar said. "With theweapons systems non-operational we stand our best chance against it.""It's too great a risk for too small a prize," Madine replied."The plan commits all of our resources. If we attempt and fail theAlliance is finished, and with it any hope of restoring freedom to thegalaxy.""If we wait, we only postpone the inevitable," General Blissexsaid. "The Empire has already proven this weapon is not for show.They used it against Alderaan because they sympathized with us. Ifthat weapon is complete, no one is going to be willing to risk helpingus. We'll lose our support and eventually be wiped out.""Princess Organa," Mon Mothma said over the din. "You are thesenator from Alderaan. You've seen this weapon used first hand. Whatis your opinion of all this?""She's not a military officer-" Blissex began, but wiltedunder Mon Mothma's stare.Leia took a deep breath, and Luke could feel that she was evenmore conflicted. "The Emperor does nothing on a whim," she saidfinally. "He has shown throughout his reign that he carefully plotsout his every choice. His tight rein on the military high command isproof enough of that." Luke could sense the pain as she thought abouther homeworld. "No one is more aware than I of the threat that weaponposes, but we can't let fear blind us to reality. The Emperor'ssudden behavior is indicative of something important, more importantthan his pet project. Or, even worse, I fear he may have learned ourintentions, and altered his plans accordingly.""How could he know?" General Reikken asked. "Are yousuggesting a spy amongst us?""I'm suggesting that the Emperor might have laid a trap for usat Endor," Leia said. "And if so we'd be fools to step into it. Ifnot, if he changed his plans for some other reason, we may have ourpriorities out of order.""What could be more important than a Death Star?" Ackbardemanded."That, admiral," Leia said, "is exactly what I'm afraid offinding out."After some time the group finally agreed to hold off on theattack until the rebel spy network was able to learn more about theEmperor's plans. There was still an almost funeral-like tension inthe air, regardless of everyone's view of the decision. They had hadtheir first real glimpse of the end, and it had been just as suddenlylost. But as Ben had told him, Luke had time ahead of him, and heplanned to put it to good use. After the meeting he took Leia aside.He didn't want to have to do it now, given her own burden at themoment, but she had to know. "Leia," he said, finally finding thecourage to say the words, "I need to tell you something... somethingrather incredible."Admiral Thrawn's smile vanished after Janeway was transportedoff the bridge of the Incaciad. It seemed like the woman would nevershut up, but after three days of conversations -enough time for theengineering crews to install the new hyperdrive on Voyager- she hadfilled him in on much of what lay on the other side of that wormhole.Tens of thousands of splintered powers vying for their own littleshare of their galaxy. Thrawn had little doubt what the Emperor andhis advisors would have in mind, and given his own proximity to theanomaly... he suspected he'd have a very interesting opportunity inthat little ship. "Captain," he said, not even turning his head."Yes, admiral," Captain Jarrol replied."Have our fleet escort Voyager to the wormhole," Thrawn said,his eyes never leaving the vessel. "Let's make sure she doesn't loseher way.""Engineering to the bridge," B'ellana Torres, Voyager's ChiefEngineer, said over the comm. "We're ready down here."Janeway was literally on the edge of her seat in anticipation."Seven?""I've established a link between our astronavigationaldatabase and long-range sensors," Seven said as she entered somecommands in astrometrics. "I've fed the data through to the helm."She finished tapping the panel. "Whenever you're ready, Mr. Paris.""You heard her, Tom," Janeway said, fidgeting with excitement."Set course for the wormhole, maximum..." she stopped short."Velocity," she shrugged at Chakotay, who smirked at her."I'm sure they'll come up with a name for it soon enough," hereplied."Course laid in," Tom Paris said at the helm. "Engaging thehyperdrive." With a single push of a button, the stars began tostretch and turn, and the Voyager crew found space suddenly replacedwith a kind of milky-white pattern around them.Janeway stood up and approached the screen. She had been inEngineering when the Incaciad had brought them to the Imperialstation, and hadn't witnessed hyperspace before. "It's beautiful,"she said quietly, the tiniest hint of emotion in her voice."Yes it is," Harry said. "It's the way home."Almost as suddenly the starlines returned, and the normalebony of space spread out before them. "Are we there?" Janeway said,her voice still barely audible."Yes, captain," Paris said. "And for the record we made it in12 minutes, 41 seconds. Just might be a new Starfleet record.""Let's hope we have an opportunity to challenge that record,"Janeway said. "Give our thanks to-"Captain Janeway never finished. Instead space twisted in onitself before her, and the ominous sight of three Borg Cubes filledthe screen in front of her. "Oh my God," she whispered. "They foundthe wormhole." She watched the Cubes pass Voyager and fly towardstheir star destroyer escort. "What have we done?"CHAPTER III.The Napuli System was, for the most part, a strategicallyuseless area of space. Little mineral wealth, no known colonies orlife, and a hundred light-years from a settled system, it was asimportant in the grand scheme as a blade of grass is to a wheat field.However, the fact that the first fleet engagement of the Borg War wastaking place here showed that things can change in an instant."All TIEs stand by," Thrawn ordered. "But do not launchunless I give the word." Despite the seriousness of the situation hisvoice was calm, but firm. He had learned a great deal about theseBorg, but most of it was second-hand. Still, Thrawn had experienceusing little bits of information for his advantage."Admiral," Captain Jarrol said anxiously, "We're receiving acommunication. They-""I know what they want," Thrawn interrupted, his eyes neverleaving the three vessels. He was very quiet. "All turbolasers onthe center cube," he finally said. "From all vessels."Jarrol hesitated for a moment, but only a moment. To him, itwas insane to ignore two-thirds of the opposing forces when they couldtry to incapacitate all three, but he'd learned more than once tofollow his commander's orders regardless. Immediately their weaponsbegan tearing into the central cube. He kept his eyes on the sensors,watching the devastation. The first cube they had encountered hadtaken little time to destroy, and this one didn't look different,until. "Lieutenant," he said with obvious confusion, "is there aproblem with the sensors?""Negative, sir," the lieutenant reported from the crewpit.Jarrol turned away and stepped over. "Then why do theinstruments insist our weapons are doing less damage?" he said withobvious irritation."It's not the instruments," Thrawn said quietly, his eyesnever leaving the tactical display. "It's them.""What do you mean?" Jarrol asked. "Sir," he quickly added.Thrawn looked back at the ship and then the display, and whenhe spoke, it was as if he were discussion the duty roster. "The Borg,captain, have adapted.""Re-route power to the shields," Janeway ordered. "Evasivemaneuvers. Load all torpedo bays.""Captain," Tuvok said, a calm center on the storm of thebridge as always, "the Borg appear to be focusing solely on theImperials.""Then give them something else to think about," she replied."Torpedoes, full spread."One after the other the torpedoes exploded from the tubes andimpacted on the Borg ship. When the series completed itself, thespace glowed from the discharged plasma. But..."no effect," Tuvoksaid."Bring us around," Janeway said, taking her seat. "Attackalong the same vector as the Imperials; we might be able to punchthrough.""Captain," Chakotay said quickly, "Maybe we should leave thisto the Imperials. They were more than a match last time.""The Borg hadn't adapted yet," Janeway countered. "This timethey will, and the admiral will need every ship he can get." Chakotayopened his mouth, but Janeway cut him off before he could even start."We brought them here. We are obligated to stop them. Tom, bring usaround."The Intrepid-class starship weaved into the conflagrationbetween the titans, phasers and torpedoes trying to breach Borgdefenses. After a few minutes the combined efforts blew the cube topieces. A few words of encouragement were said, then the group movedon to the next cube. "Torpedoes, full spread," Janeway ordered as thetiny Federation ship dodged the Borg's energy weapon and closed in."There are only two torpedoes left," Tuvok informed her. "Doyou wish me to fire them?""Not yet," Janeway said. In the heat of the moment she'dforgotten how the previous battle had seriously reduced their limitedsupply. "Try to find an opening, then launch it down their throats.""Sir," Captain Jarrol said as Thrawn continued looking betweenthe battle and the tactical display, "the Lucinda's shields arefailing. The Borg have been-""They're using a shield draining weapon," Thrawn finished."Set the jammers to a randomized pattern.""Yes," Jarrol said as he passed on the order, but hisconfusion was obvious."If the jamming is regular," Thrawn said, even though hisattention was focused on the battle, "they might find a way tominimize it and use their transporters. We mustn't let that happen.Launch all TIEs." He tapped the console as he watched the reportscoming in from the Lucinda. The Borg had ganged up on it in preciselythe same manner as the star destroyers. Shields were failing. "Iwant TIEs to target all tractor beam emitters. The Borg can't beallowed to assimilate any part of the Lucinda; not one member of thecrew, not so much as a wrench. Are my orders clear?" They were;Thrawn was not one to resort to hyperbole."Captain!" Ens. Kim shouted with concern. "I'm readinghundreds of ships, too many to get a precise count.""More Borg?" Janeway asked, her heart in her throat."No," Kim replied, more restrained, "they're from the Imperialships. They appear to be large shuttles.""They're not evacuating, are they?" Janeway asked Chakotay inconfusion."I don't think so, Captain," Tom Paris said as he pointed tothe display. They watched as the ships swarmed around Voyager andswooped in at the cubes, their weapons tiny pinpoints as they fired atthe massive ships."It looks like Thrawn had a little surprise planned," Chakotayremarked."Hopefully this will turn the tide," Janeway remarked as theyjoined in the attack with the fighters."I don't think so, Captain," Kim said, his disappointmenttransparent. "They've begun assimilating one of the star destroyers."The bridge was a buzz of controlled activity as the task ofrunning a warship and coordinating a battle continued with the fineprecision Thrawn demanded of his officers. The admiral himself wassilently weighing the factors in his cold mind. The differencebetween Thrawn's thinking and a military computer's was that thecomputer was not aware of the moral consequences of its decisions. Thedifference between Thrawn and most officers was that he didn't allowthat to influence his thinking."Give me Captain Tamez," Thrawn said. Activity in the roomquieted slightly; the admiral rarely spoke with the other vesselsdirectly during combat. "Captain," Thrawn said as the hologramappeared on the bridge, "can you raise your shields?""No sir," Tamez replied, doing his best not to display anyemotion as the Borg tried to carve his ship apart around him."Captain, I want you to ram the port cube." He spoke as if itwere a minor course correction."Say again?" Tamez replied."The Borg are assimilating you," Thrawn said. "They want totake you and your crew and turn you into brainless slaves. If youdon't destroy them, this will happen.""We have them outnumbered-""You won't last that long," Thrawn said, "and we are short ontime. You can die a slave or die fighting to save the Empire. Isuggest you choose the latter."Tamez obviously didn't like either choice. "Admiral-""Ramming speed," Thrawn said. "Those are your orders."Tamez took a deep breath through his nose. "Yes, admiral." Hetried to put as much pride into the words as he could, and thehologram faded. The bridge remained quiet as Thrawn's order seemed tohang in the air.Thrawn stepped back to his position in front of the tacticaldisplay. He could explain to them that anything the Borg assimilatedcould be used to learn about the Empire and how to destroy it, andthat even obliterating the vessels wouldn't keep that knowledge frombeing passed on to the collective. Of course, he was also theadmiral, and he explained to no one but the Emperor. "Unless we wishto share their fate," he said evenly, "we must focus on the task athand."The bridgecrew of Voyager watched in shock as the stardestroyer and the cube collided in an explosion so energetic they wereflashblinded. An energy wave struck and knocked them off balance.When Janeway managed to right herself she was able to make out theshattered remains of the cube; the star destroyer was vaporized."Death before assimilation," Chakotay said grimly. "I'm surea few Federation captains had similar thoughts.""Earth," Janeway said quietly. She looked at Chakotay, andnoticed the odd way he looked at her. "Captain Riker was prepared todo the same thing to save Earth when the Borg first came." She shookher head. "We have more in common with these Imperials than physicalappearance." She called out orders for battle to finish off theremains of the final cube, but part of her couldn't stop thinkingabout what had happened.Luke looked on with some concern as Leia held the lightsabertightly in her hands. He could sense her fear, which was an importantconcern. His family didn't have a good history with the dark side."Relax," he told her, "Don't try to force it. Just let it happen." Heactivated the remote, which began to move with a series of small,deliberate motions. Every few seconds a beam would lash out--notstrong, just enough to sting. Leia swung the blade, but missed. Thisrepeated until Luke could sense her frustration. "I know it seemshard, but that's just it. It only seems hard because you think it is.Stretch out with your feelings, and don't worry about whether youblock or not. Just let your instincts guide you.""Easy to say," Leia said through gritted teeth, "hard to do."The blade was brought up, almost blocking the latest bolt."Like all things, it takes practice and patience." Which wastrue, but there was no sense in going too hard on her on her firstday. Luke stretched out with the Force and turned the remote to alower setting. He felt a flash of anger."I don't need you to go soft on me," Leia told him. "I justneed to get the hang of things."Luke nodded with a small smile. "How did you know?" he asked.Leia opened her mouth to speak, and then closed it. "I don'tknow. I just... just knew.""Now you're starting to understand," he said with approval."Trust your feelings, don't second guess them."Leia took a deep breath then held the lightsaber out in frontof her, eyes fixed on the remote. It fired, slow at first, thenfaster. The green blade slipped through the air with a quiet hum asit snatched at each sliver of energy, bouncing it away harmlessly.Luke switched it off and clapped his hands a few times. "You've takenthe first step," he said with approval. "But there's something youmust always remember. Take these steps only along the proper path."He paused, realizing that it was only a week ago that he was thepupil. He wished Master Yoda was there to train her, to give theguidance that Leia needed to avoid the trap their father had steppedinto and that he nearly succumbed to as well. That was Yoda's lastwarning to him, something that, even as he died, he wanted Luke toremember. He would face his father again; would he face the dark sideagain as well? And more importantly, could he find the strength torefuse it, or would he give in to temptation?"Are you all right?" Leia asked.Luke tried to put on a cheerful face. She was definitelygrowing in her powers. "I'll be fine," he assured her. "Let'scontinue with your exercises.""Are they gone?" the Emperor asked."Yes, your highness," the hologram replied. Mara stopped herexercise, her instincts telling her that something important was goingon. After a few seconds she recognized the hologram as Thrawn, one ofthe more gifted military commanders, but nevertheless an alien.However good they might be, never trust an alien, or so the Emperorhad taught her; and he was right. Thrawn may command in his navy, butthe Emperor did not for an instant allow that to cloud his judgment ofthe creature."What do you know about this Federation?" the Emperor asked."They are but one of thousands of minor powers located intheir galaxy," Thrawn replied. "Many have little knowledge of theexistence of most of the others. Communication on the galactic scaleis virtually non-existent.""That can be used to our advantage," the Emperor replied."What of the leader you spoke with?"Thrawn chuckled. "Janeway is extremely naïve. She seems totake everything at face value. After the Lucinda was destroyed shegave us all tactical information they had on the Borg, no matter howobscure. There is a multitude of details we can use to deduceinformation about tactical and strategic possibilities against a greatdeal of powers in their galaxy. And of course, the information on theBorg itself will be extremely useful.""Indeed," the Emperor said. "What is your assessment of theseBorg?""They are obviously a threat, you highness," Thrawn repliedsimply. "They no doubt want to assimilate us as well, and since it'simpossible to negotiate with them, armed conflict is unavoidable.""Then you are recommending that we prepare for war," theEmperor replied."Your Excellency, I suggest that we deter them from thatcourse. A retaliatory strike into their territory as a directresponse to their invasion would demonstrate that further conflictswith the Empire would not be in their best interests."Mara could sense the Emperor's mood sour. Was Thrawnattempting some duplicity? "I thought you said these Borg areunreasonable.""Your highness, the Borg cannot be reasoned with, but theyare, in the end, beings of logic."The Emperor was silent for several minutes, but Thrawn saidnothing, a wise choice as far as Mara was concerned. Her master wasright, this alien couldn't be trusted. However, the Borg weredefinitely a threat if they could cause the destruction of a stardestroyer. "I want you to take command of a task force of vesselsfrom the nearest space station, and cross into this Milky Way galaxy.""Yes, your excellency," Thrawn replied.Mara could sense the Emperor's irritation. He had no doubtbeen expecting Thrawn to presume he would command the war effort, andthus humiliate him by denying it. "I want a station built on theother side of the wormhole to serve as a launch platform for ourefforts and to maintain communication throughout the conflict. Seethat it is built quickly and protected from the Borg."Thrawn nodded and the hologram faded. The Emperor turnedtowards Mara, his gaze causing her to wither slightly. The more shegrew in her power, the more she could sense how great the gap wasbetween them. He noticed her reaction, as he noticed everything, anda smile drew to his lips at her fear. "Good," he said slowly. "Fearis the path to strength. Terror, hatred, passion, these are thethings of power. Embrace them, my young apprentice.""Yes, my master," she replied with a slight bow. Shehesitated, unsure if it was her place to speak with him of suchthings. "Master, do you really trust such an important matter in thehands of the Chiss?"The Emperor waved the remark away as he returned to histhrone. "He is an able planner and a skilled tactician, but I wouldnot be so foolish as to trust him with this campaign. Darth Vader'sfleet has the most capable officers in the navy; they will deal withthe Borg.""But what of the rebels," Mara replied. "If they attack whilethe fleet is gone-""The rebels will not attack," the Emperor replied. "And ifthey were so foolish, the battlestation is shielded, and no army inexistence can equal the one I have placed to guard the generator. No,my young pupil, the rebels are no threat."Mara nodded her agreement, but the Emperor could sense herthoughts. He chuckled. "Yes, you are correct child. One must neverunderestimate one's enemy, no matter how nearly vanquished they mightbe." It was a lesson her master had impressed on her from day one; alesson one of her predecessors had learned from a lightsaber point."The rebel support will wither once my battlestation is operational,lest they suffer the same fate as Alderaan. You need not alwaysbattle to win, young Mara, you can succeed merely by using yourenemy's fears against them.""I still don't understand."The Emperor smiled, and Mara could sense he was thinking aboutthe Federation and its neighbors. "You will child. You will."

CHAPTER IV.Captain Janeway tried not to fidget in front of the admirals,but it wasn't easy. With the celebrations of Voyager's return ending,the reality of all that had happened had sunk in. For five years shehad no superior officers to deal with, no one to report to but her ownconscience. Now that she was home, those five years were about to beplaced under a microscope."Captain, before we begin," said Admiral Parks, the seniorofficer present, "I want you to understand that this is not anofficial inquiry or a disciplinary investigation. We just want toclear up some of the events that took place during your absence."Janeway nodded. "I understand, admiral." She was glad none ofthem were telepaths and could tell what a lie that was."Good," Parks turned to a white-haired man at the end of therow. "Adm. Jellico, I believe you had a topic of particular concern."Admiral Jellico nodded. "Captain Janeway. You ascribed yourspeedy return to a group called the," he turned to his notes, "theGalactic Empire?""Yes," Janeway answered, "we worked out an exchange with arepresentative of the Empire wherein they were given transportertechnology and we were given their propulsion device."Jellico consulted his notes again. "A device called a'hyperdrive'.""Yes. They showed interest in our transporters, and weobviously needed their device a great deal.""Enough to violate the Prime Directive?" Jellico replied.The suddenness of the remark caught her off guard. "What doyou mean, sir?" Janeway replied."According to your report," Jellico said, "the Empire is notonly on the other side of the universe, but is existing at a time farearlier than our own.""Yes," Janeway replied. "We discovered that the wormholedisplaces in space as well as time, at the speed of subspace in fact.""Very convenient," Jellico said with disinterest, "but itdoesn't explain why you deliberately gave technology to a society thatexisted, by your own admission, before our own."Janeway's voice dropped in pitch. "We didn't know about thisat the time. It wasn't until the Borg showed up that we realized it.In either case, I stand by my actions.""Even though they violate Starfleet regulations?" Jellicoasked pointedly."Yes," Janeway remained stoic, "I do."Janeway expected the barrage to continue, but Jellico suddenlyreversed thrusters, catching her off guard. "Would you not in factsay that your actions were necessary to ensure the safety of yourcrew?""Yes," she replied, wondering if she'd just stepped intoJellico's trap."Would you describe the Galactic Empire as being hostile?"Janeway was growing more suspicious, but she firmly believedthat the truth justified her. "In every encounter I had with them,the Empire showed they were civilized and cooperative."Admiral Parks spoke up. "Would you be willing to testify tothat before the Federation Council?""Yes," she replied, but didn't understand. She said as much."It's really quite simple, captain," Jellico said. "We wantyou to tell all of this to the Federation Council tomorrow.""To accomplish what?""A lot has happened while you were gone, captain." Parkshesitated. "The Federation is in trouble. We've been having diplomaticnegotiations with practically every two-bit planet in our part ofspace. We need support if we are to survive."She'd been gone too long, Janeway realized. She'd forgottenabout how much of a hotbed the alpha quadrant can be. It fell intoplace in an instant. "Then what you want..."Jellico finished, "We think the Federation should form analliance with the Empire."Seven of Nine waited outside the briefing room, hands claspedbehind her back in what passed for a relaxed pose, moving only as muchas was required to remain alert. It was for this reason she was awareof the small group of Starfleet personnel - cadets, she noted fromtheir insignia - that had gathered to stare at her since she andCaptain Janeway had arrived. Scoptophobia was an irrational fear, aswas paranoia; human foibles that she as a Borg had grown far beyond.Their whisphered discussions about her were of no concern, no concernat all."Do you require something?" she asked, causing the small crowdto jump at the suddenness of her remark. Despite herself she hadn'tbeen able to keep the belligerence out of her voice."Um," one of the female cadets said as her classmatesdistanced themselves from her slightly, "we were wondering if it wastrue... what they said, I mean. That you're a Borg.""I am an individual now," Seven replied."But, you were a Borg," the cadet replied. "You used to be."Seven resisted the pointless desire to rub her hands togetherat the uncomfortable situation. "Yes," she finally replied."Does it hurt when you're assimilated?" someone else asked."I don't remember," Seven replied."I thought Borg never forget anything," the first cadetreplied."We do not waste valuable resources on the pointlessrecollection of pain.""Did you ever help assimilate anyone?"Seven wrung her hands instinctively. "Yes," she repliedquietly."Did they show they were in pain? Did they want you to stop?""I don't remember," she said sharply."Mr. Hicks," a voice came from behind Seven, "are you incharge of this gathering?" All the cadets drew to attention. Sevenglanced between them and a white-haired man that had just exited thebriefing room."No, sir," the female cadet replied."You are now," he said. "Since your classmates have nothingbetter to do than gawk in a hallway, I think you can find the time toinventory the cargo containers at Docking Platform #2. I'll informthe quartermaster that you will personally have it on her desk by 2100hours.""Yes sir," she replied, and with a nod from the officer theyrushed off. As they left the man joined with a small group of otherswho had just left the briefing room. Seven noted the smile on CaptainJaneway's face, a complete reversal of her previously somber attitude."Your debriefing went well?" Seven asked."Better than well," Janeway replied as the two started walkingthrough the corridors of Starfleet Command. "It seems our littledetour through the wormhole may have a much larger consequence thanwe'd thought.""The hyperdrive will bring substantial changes," Sevenremarked. "Further tradings for Imperial technology would be wise.""Off the record," Janeway remarked, a phrase that Seven stillfailed to understand, "it's going to be a lot bigger than that." Theydrew to a halt as the cadet returned. "Can we help you?" Janewayasked politely."I'm sorry, sir," she replied nervously, then turned to Seven."I just wanted to apologize on behalf of myself and everyone else. Wedidn't mean to offend you.""I do not take offense," Seven replied."Well, what we did was rude, and as future Starfleet officerswe should've known better."Seven looked at Captain Janeway nervously, then back. "Youshould be completing the admiral's orders. It would be a mistake toneglect your duty by talking to me." She continued walking, the girllooking oddly between her and Janeway before the captain rushed tocatch up."Was there a problem?" Janeway asked with concern."No," Seven said curtly.Captain Janeway nodded, clearly not believing it but knowingbetter than to bring it up now. "Let's get back to the ship. I thinkwe've spent enough time on Earth for right now."Seven took a deep breath. "Agreed," she replied with a hintof exhaustion.Lt. Delric Taar tapped his datapad absentmindedly on the tablein front of him as he waited for the fleet-wide briefing to begin.Whatever was going on made him edgy; the zero hour for the rebelattack had come and gone, and command refused to breathe a word to thelower decks of what was going on, even though it was obvious somethingwas up. The fleet had left the incomplete Death Star undefended daysago, a dangerous move in his opinion. Of course, there was no lovelost between himself and the Death Star. More than one of his friendshad left the service over Alderaan, their hatred overwhelming theirloyalty for order and peace. Now he'd been forced to blow his formerwingmates away, and all because of a superweapon that was, by its verynature, a tactically useless tool.According to the rebellion, Alderaan had been destroyed byGrand Moff Tarkin just to spite a rebel spy. Of course, it wasprobably just propaganda, but down deep Taar had to wonder whether ornot anyone could command such power and be able to show restraint. Hewasn't optimistic, especially with Moff Jerjerrod in command. He'dseen the moff's reaction to Lord Vader, and putting ultimate power inthe hands of a whiny sycophant was like giving an infant a thermaldetonator to play with.Before he could continue the thought the holograms of othersquadron leaders appeared throughout the room, the fleet flightcoordinator appearing in the center. Taar got his datapad ready asthe briefing began."Squadron leaders," the major began, "meet your new enemy."The rotating image of a cube-shaped object appeared on each table, asmaller one of a star destroyer alongside it for scale. "They'recalled the Borg, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they poseno threat to the Empire." Taar took notes as the previous battlesinvolving the Borg were given, the known points of their defenses, andthe reason for the upcoming mission."We are going to cross through the wormhole and into Borgspace," the major continued. "Since they have no concept of diplomacywe plan to annihilate enough ships and planets to show them thatfurther attacks on the Empire would be a devastating mistake. Anyquestions?"Taar spoke up. "Sir, Interceptors, as the very name implies,are meant to deal with fighter craft. They cause minimal damage tocorvettes. What possible use do they have against a ship this size?"The major exhaled in annoyance. "We've determined thatswarming the cubes with fighters will provide a distraction that willallow our star destroyers to do their work."Don't say it, Delric. Don't say it, Delric. "So we're flyingtargets. Sir." You shouldn't have said it. The major's look ofscorn agreed with that sentiment."I think the major was impressed with your tacticalassessments," Lt. Starrunner, squadron leader for Grey Squadron,remarked after the briefing was over."Kriff him," Taar said with disgust. "These guys get takenout of the pilot seat and suddenly they forget what it's like to haveinches of plexisteel between you and death.""This is messed up," Starrunner agreed. "You heard howaccurate those Borg can get. They're asking us to basically die whenwe can't fight back. And do you think my bombers have a chance ofstaying ahead and outmaneuvering these Borg?""Not without cover," Taar said. He sighed, then rapped hisdatapad on the hull a couple of times. "Lohl," he said finally,"let's get our squadrons together for some simulations. Maybe there'sa way we can fight back against the Borg after all."Jean-luc Picard, captain of the Federation flagship,Enterprise, sighed with impatience as he waited outside the office ofAdm. Parks. After six weeks of separation from my ship you wouldthink I'd be used to it, he thought gloomily. He wasn't accustomed tobeing out of the loop, at least not when it came to the Enterprise.That Data, Geordi, and his engineering staff were allowed on board wasall the more infuriating, but at least now he could speak to someonewho could give him information, maybe even access to his ship again.He got to his feet as that someone arrived."Apologies for the delay, Jean-luc," Adm. Parks said, shakinghis hand."Not at all," Picard lied. "It seems these days time issomething I have plenty of."Parks laughed as he led Picard into his office. "Yes, there'sa fine line between R&R and boredom, isn't there.""Exactly," Picard said, hoping this meant the admiral wasgoing to let him in on what was happening.Parks took his seat, offering Picard a chair as he did."Jean-luc, I know it's not easy being kept in the dark on what goes onon your own vessel, but believe me, it's in the name of Federationsecurity.""Indeed," Picard said neutrally. It seemed to him that a lotwas being done in the name of Federation security lately, and hewasn't all that pleased with where that was leading. The declarationof martial law remained a particular sore spot with him, and areminder that their society was not as rock-solid as he'd like tothink."We have an opportunity to forever change the balance of powerin this quadrant," Parks continued. "A chance to ensure that theRomulans, the Cardassians, not even the Dominion will be able tothreaten the Federation again.""A new weapon?""An ally," Parks answered. "Someone with resources andtechnology that, along with our own strength, will deter practicallyany power that might try to wage war on us.""And you're afraid someone might form a treaty with thesepeople first," Picard said."Not exactly. No one can reach them in any reasonable amountof time; they exist on the other side of a wormhole that's overhalfway across the galaxy."Picard was a bit baffled. "I'm not sure I understand. Howhelpful can this power be if it would take decades just to reachthem?"Parks smiled. "Because right now we're the only ones who canreach them without taking decades." He explained to Picard aboutVoyager's encounter with the Borg, the Empire, and the new hyperdrive."And this is what you've been doing with the Enterprise allthis time," Picard concluded at the end. "Installing thishyperdrive.""Yes," Parks confirmed. "You can see the need for security.Even without the possibility of an alliance, the ability to deploy ourforces at hundreds of times the speed of our enemies gives us anincredible advantage. If that technology were stolen, it could bedamning.""I understand," Picard added. "But there's something I'm notclear on. If this treaty with the Empire is so important, why did wenot send Voyager? They have a functioning hyperdrive.""Yes, but that's about all that's functioning. Voyager's beenflying through Borg space for some time; she wasn't in the best shapewhen she returned. And besides that, a mission of this importancerequires a captain with a skill for diplomacy, and I think there's noone better qualified."With each passing second the frustrations of the previousweeks was replaced with anticipation as Picard thought of themagnitude of this mission. A mission of diplomacy to a civilizationthat spanned an entire galaxy was beyond the expectations of even themost fanciful cadets. "When do we leave?" he asked, now all the moreimpatient to get back to his ship and begin this historic trip."Three days," Parks replied. "The hyperdrive should befinished tomorrow, which should give your people enough time tofamiliarize themselves with the new equipment and prep for themission.""Will Captain Janeway be giving us a briefing?""Better. She's re-assigning a member of her crew to act asyour advisor on both the delta quadrant and the Galactic Empire.""Who?""She hasn't decided yet," Parks answered. "She needs someonewho's not only familiar with their technology, but has expertise indelta quadrant astrometrics and dealings with the Imperials. Findingsomeone who fits that bill won't be easy, and giving them up willprobably be even harder.""Well," Picard said as he rose to his feet, "I'll certainlylook forward to meeting whoever is up to that challenge."Seven of Nine walked through the door to the captain's readyroom. As always, Capt. Janeway was seated behind her desk, a PADD inone hand, a mug of coffee in the other. She was nothing if notpredictable. "You wished to see me, captain," Seven stated.Janeway continued to look at the PADD. "Yes, Seven, please sitdown.""Unnecessary, I'm comfortable standing."Janeway put down the PADD. "Yes, of course you are. I forgot,the Borg even sleep standing.""Inaccurate. The Borg regenerate, they do not sleep."Janeway came around and sat on the edge of her desk. "Yes...."Janeway continued after a brief pause. "Everything is in order, alldamage to the ship has been repaired, and I've finally got my privatedining room back," she added with a slight smile. "Some of the Maquisofficers have asked to transfer to Starfleet, and permission has beengranted for them to remain at their current posts. I've even persuadedthem to keep the Doctor on line as our chief medical officer, althoughthat took a little convincing.""I assume you're not updating the ship's status with theentire crew in this manner.""No." Janeway had a look of disappointment. "That leaves uswith our two resident civilians. Mr. Neelix has already departed. Thatleaves us with you."Seven breathed a little heavily, then began to speak. "If youdo not wish me to remain on board I will leave. I understand thatcircumstances have changed."Janeway stepped forward and grabbed Seven's hand. "That's notwhat I'm saying. You've been an asset to this ship. There's a chancethat we wouldn't be here if it weren't for you. We don't want you toleave. But it would be selfish of us to force you to remain on board.We'd be denying you new experiences, a chance to explore yourhumanity." Seven was uncharacteristically silent. "Going from lifeon Voyager to life on Earth isn't going to be an easy transition,"Janeway continued. "I think that's obvious to the both of us."Seven nodded slowly, not looking at her captain. "Adaptingwould be... difficult.""Perhaps it's time for a small step in the right direction."Janeway turned and picked up the PADD off her desk. "And I think wehave the perfect opportunity for you to take that step. Tell me, areyou familiar at all with the Enterprise?"CHAPTER V."There is something wrong."It was the voice you hoped to never hear, especially directedat yourself. It was, on its own intimidating, with its resonant bassoverlaid on that haunting rhythm. The mechanical breathing chilled,as if a subtle reminder of universal mortality. Yet even then thevoice did nothing to prepare you for the man; two meters of strengthembodied in flesh and machinery. An imposing body that was completedby an expressionless mask for a face to leave this man all the moreinhuman. Throughout the Empire his reputation was so legendary, soterrifying, he literally needed no introduction.Commander Pakkib knew that reputation as well, and ever sincethe Dark Lord of the Sith had arrived on the incomplete Death Star hehad felt fear gnawing at his entrails. The personal inspection hadgripped the entire station with similar despair, given that DarthVader's disappointment rarely led to anything but death. At themoment, he sounded too disappointed for Pakkib's liking."What's seems to be the problem, my lord," Pakkib managed toask. While he knew of nothing wrong, it was obvious contradictingVader could only make things worse."A tremor in the Force," Vader declared. No one knew if hewas staring at them behind that mask, but no one made any effort todraw attention to themselves. Commander Pakkib tried to ignore thebeads of sweat that were forming on his forehead with each inhale andexhale. "I want a complete check of the computer systems," Vaderfinally said. "And I want it done manually. Every last bit is to beanalyzed.""Understood my Lord," Pakkib replied. He swallowed slightlyand continued. "But I must tell you that it will take severaltechnicians to complete this assignment. It may start putting usbehind." Better to face Lord Vader's wrath now than live in fear ofits approach."Perhaps someone else could impel them to remain on schedule.""No," Pakkib said, perhaps a bit too quickly. "I was justkeeping your lordship appraised. We will remain on schedule.""Good," Vader implied, but there was no trace of satisfaction."I'll expect your report very soon."The anticipation was now far worse than whatever punishmentthe dark lord might offer. Pakkib turned to three of his technicians."You are relieved of your current assignment. Your new task is tocarry out Lord Vader's command - any anomalous files are to beanalyzed in detail. This is your top priority." He turned to theothers present. "The rest of you continue. We will remain onschedule, whatever the cost," he declared. Several hours later,one of the technicians hailed him on the comm system, his voicebetraying obvious surprise and concern. "Sir," he said, "we've foundwhat looks like some kind of droid memory file in the main computer.""What?" Droid memory files are rarely backed up at all, anddefinitely wouldn't be stored in an area where it could potentiallyaccess vital systems. Having it on the main computer of a Death Starwas about as bad as it could possibly get. "Erase the fileimmediately," he ordered. The technician acknowledged it, but asecond later there was the sound of blaster fire and screaming. Theautodefenses had killed him and the other two members of his team.Pakkib realized he was wrong; the worst it could possibly be was ahostile droid with control of the station. Chaos descended as Pakkiband his men began trying to isolate the rogue program, but apparentlyduring all this time, the droid mind had been searching for ways toget around them. Every time they tried to throw up a programmingwall, the droid found a way to bypass it. Every time they tried tophysically remove its connection, they were attacked by the automateddefenses. As the droid continued to assert more and more controlPakkib began contemplating the only solution: evacuate the station andoverload the reactor. It would be a disaster, but nothing compared toa rogue Death Star."What's the situation?" Vader demanded, causing Pakkib tovisibly jump. Pakkib quickly filled him in. "The main computer islocated in there?" he asked, pointing at the doorway.Pakkib nodded. "But the defenses have been activated, whichmeans the laser gate's armed and the computer's shielded, so we can'tshoot it. We'd have to cut the power at the junction but it'simpossible to reach from outside the room.Vader walked up to the door to examine it. Beyond, he couldsee the dead bodies of the other technicians. The lasergate was theultimate deterrent. Anything trying to penetrate would be blasted, andany attempt to destroy the weapons would cause an explosion strongenough to kill any would be invader. A perfect barrier - for anyonewho wasn't a master of the dark side. The crew looked on inastonishment as Vader took three steps back, then ran and dove throughthe opening. The weapons fired, but the Dark Lord twisted his body toavoid most of them. One blast did strike just below his rightshoulder, but the beam dissipated with no effect. Vader rolled onceacross the floor and into a fighting stance, his lightsaber ignited.Automatic security devices began firing, and the blade snapped out anddeflected them. One, two, then the third came and he deflected itright into the junction, causing the shield around the main computerto collapse. He sprang, cape billowing behind him, lightsabercontinuing to snatch the blaster bolts out of the air until he landedand stabbed straight through the casing. After that, there wassilence, save for the sizzling sound of broken electronics.Pakkib was so shocked at what had just happened that it didn'treally register until the dark lord was standing right in front ofhim. His awe gave way slowly to fear; he noticed several techniciansjump when the lightsaber was turned off. "Who was responsible forchecking the programming of that computer?" he demanded.Pakkib hesitated for a moment, while the various parts of hisbrain tried to shake themselves loose to dig through the metaphoricalfiles. "Lt. Teklif, my lord."Vader turned and looked over the assembled group; they shrankback as the blank mask passed over them. "You are aware that thisincident will put us even farther behind schedule?" Vader asked.Pakkib nodded. "Yes," was all he could say.Immediately, one of the technician's eyes grew wide and hebegan grasping at his throat. Those who were nearby began moving awayslowly as his eyes rolled up into his head and he fell to the floor.Vader turned back to Pakkib, who closed his eyes. At least it wouldbe relatively quick, if not particularly pleasant. But instead of thegrip on his throat, Vader began to walk away. "Inform your superiorthat you will need a new computer." He paused, then turned back. "Anda new technician.""Admiral," the captain said, and Piett walked over to the commstation. There were still a few patrols that hadn't reported in yet;perhaps this was the lead they'd been looking for. Combing throughthis galaxy was almost as bad as some areas of the Outer Rim; findingthe worlds of these Borg that had bloodied Thrawn's nose was provingdifficult.The communications officer spoke up. "Sir, Scoutships arereporting in from Sector 17. They've found a planet, technology seemssimilar to the one our sensors detected.""More than likely it's our Borg boogeymen," the captain said.Piett nodded. "And if not, they could probably point us inthe right direction. Alert all commands, converge on thosecoordinates." And with that order, the fleet of star destroyersslipped into hyperspace.Picard had been waiting in his ready room when she arrived.He'd been looking over the mission details, and he had to admit thathe was practically as giddy as a fresh graduate taking his firstassignment. The idea of opening diplomatic relations with acivilization as vast, ancient, and advanced as the Galactic Empirewent beyond even the pipedreams of young cadets. Sure, he wasn'tgoing to be actually engaged in negotiations -the delegates on boardwould handle that- but he'd be the one to get the foot in the door.When the door chimed he gave his standard "Come!" without even pausingin thought. But the sight of her was like dropping several tons oflumber on his mental railroad tracks.She was dressed in a blue full body suit rather than auniform, along with a pair of high-heeled boots. The fact that itemphasized her highly-attractive figure, however, didn't reallymatter. For Picard, it was her face, her hand, the tell-tale signs ofthe one and only civilization that used that particular type oftechnology. She is, or was, Borg. "Annika Hansen?" he asked in avoice that said he couldn't imagine the answer to that question being"Yes."The woman had been examining the room, more like analyzinggiven the way her eyes seemed to dwell on things. "I suppose that wasthe name you were provided," she said. "As you are the commandingofficer of this vessel, you may choose to address me by thatdesignation, though I should warn you that simply using it will notmake me become that person."Picard was now kicking himself for spending too much timelooking over the mission details and not taking the time to check thenew crewman's file beyond her name... and it seemed that even thatdata had been flawed. "What would you prefer?""I am Seven of Nine Tertiary Adjunct of Unimatrix Zero One.But you may call me Seven of Nine."Picard nodded to himself. The commander of this mission isthe only Starfleet officer to escape assimilation, and he's going tomeet with the Empire immediately after the Borg destroyed one of theirships, so naturally Janeway would choose to send a Borg as hisadvisor. No wonder they didn't want Voyager handling the diplomacy."You are a Borg, yes?" he asked, just to be certain."I am no longer a member of the collective, I am anindividual," Seven informed him."Yes, I can see that," Picard said in a neutral tone. "Thenyou must know about me.""Our thoughts were one for a time, Captain Picard," Sevensaid. "But the irrelevant details of your life are not known to me.Am I too assume that this won't be a hindrance to my assignment?""I would never allow my personal feelings to interfere in myduty." Picard stopped. Why did he say that? That implied there weresome personal feelings involved! "You are familiar with the Empire?""Yes, captain," Seven said. "I was involved in most of ourdirect meetings and have first-hand experience with their technology.I have also been briefed on the experiences of others.""Good, we'll need you to avoid any missteps. I don't think Ihave to tell you how important this meeting will be for us. TheEmpire could be a powerful friend, or a lethal enemy.""Agreed," Seven said. "I will ensure that you are adequatelyadvised in all circumstances."Picard nodded slowly. "Your quarters have already beenassigned. Do you have any special needs we should be aware of?""Yes," Seven said. "I assume I will be provided standardquarters. The bed can be removed; I do not require sleep. I will,however, require a power conduit be adapted to interface with mysystems.""You need an alcove, is that what you're saying?""Yes, captain." She noticed the tone in his voice. "Is thata problem captain?""So long as you don't go assimilating our ship, no," he said,then mentally kicked himself for the remark. That's twice she'sgotten under your skin, Jean-luc, he thought. And it's not her doingit, it's you! "Inform Commander Riker, he'll make the arrangements.If there's nothing else...""No, sir.""Dismissed." Seven nodded and left. Picard dropped the PADDon the desk. How was he going to open diplomatic relations withanother galaxy if he couldn't get along with his own crewmen?The Executor and the rest of its fleet exited hyperspace; fiveBorg cubes waited for them. They weren't the first they'dencountered, but it was the first time that the Borg would be on thereceiving end, and the first time Piett had a speech of his own."Transmission coming in, sir," the communication officer said. Piettnodded and it came over the speaker, thousands speaking a singlechant."We are the Borg. Lower your shields and surrender yourships. We will add your...""That's enough," Piett said, and the transmission was cut off."Ready our reply." He waited until the officer nodded. "This isAdmiral Piett of the Galactic Empire. You have violated our space andrepeatedly attacked our ships without provocation. This will not betolerated." He turned to the captain. "Alert all commands, engageand destroy."As the fleet closed in on the Borg world, the cubes rushed toengage them. As before, despite their adaptations, the turbolaserblasts tore massive holes in their ships. Still, the Collectiveseemed to press on despite the obvious damage, like an animal that hadbecome so rabid it wouldn't stop attacking even if it was being killedby the defender. However, the Borg weren't animals, they were logicaland unemotional, so they ignored the damage and instead concentratedtheir attacks on a single star destroyer. Despite the heavy damagethey managed to batter the ship's shields down. They bombarded theship with bluish-green bombs, which seemed to act as a kind of ionblast. The star destroyer's weapons were becoming less and lesseffective as the seconds passed.But outnumbered and outgunned, the cubes couldn't stand up tothe rest of the fleet. The last of the cubes was reduced tofragments. "Report," Piett ordered."All ships are reporting no damage, sir," the captain said."Except the Tyrant. Captain Lennox reports that the damage to many oftheir systems is serious; they'll need to return to the station tomake repairs."Piett nodded. "Send them to Base One. Once the ship'sfunctional, I want it back here with the fleet." The captain noddedand passed the message along. As the Tyrant limped off, the rest ofthe fleet closed in on the planet. "We'll show these Borg whoseresistance is futile." The Imperial fleet bombarded the planet; theBorg offered no resistance. Within minutes every square meter of thecrust had been reduced to smoking craters.Picard exited his ready room. "I assume we're ready, NumberOne?" he asked."Ready as we'll ever be, sir," Riker said. "Mr. LaForge saysall systems are go.""Helm, take us out of Spacedock; let's see what this enginecan do." He took his seat; Riker was on his right as usual, whileSeven had been provided the one normally allotted to Counselor Troifor the purpose of the mission. He watched as the doorway opened toallow the massive Sovereign-class ship to exit. "The anticipation isunnerving," he confessed to Riker."I feel a bit like Zephram Cochrane," Riker admitted. "Brandnew propulsion system, first contact.""Except we're not first, Will," Picard reminded him. "We'rejust making this trip. Everyone knows Armstrong and Aldrin werefirst, who remembers the second?""Peter Conrad and Alan Bean, sir," Data said.Picard turned to him. "Thank you, Mr. Data," he said.Data nodded. "In ten seconds we will be far enough outsidethe Earth's gravity well to engage the hyperdrive, captain.""And we'll see if it's everything we've been told it'd be.""The technology is effective," Seven informed him."I'm sure it is," Picard replied. "On my mark, helm...engage." And with that the stars began to lengthen and twist intostarlines, and suddenly, they were gone.CHAPTER VI.Even after six days, Picard still couldn't get over the eeriefeeling he had whenever he looked out the window of the Enterprise.Instead of the familiar streak of stars, there was an unnatural flowof...something. He didn't know how to describe it; hyperspace is whatSeven of Nine called it. Whatever it was, it felt wrong. Still, thatwas the price that came from crossing the galaxy at such fantasticspeeds, and if a journey of decades can be reduced to days, Picardconceded hyperspace could look as ugly as it liked.Lt. Commander Data's voice brought him back to the present."We'll be approaching the wormhole in fifteen seconds, captain."Picard acknowledged, and waited, then on Data's order helm shut downthe hyperdrive, and hyperspace turned to starlines, then collapsedback into the familiar view of real space, fifty thousand light-yearsnow behind them.... and one very massive object in front of them."All stop." Picard ordered. "What is that?""It appears to be some kind of space station sir," Datainformed him. "Although I am not familiar with any of its designpatterns."Seven of Nine turned to the captain. "It's similar in size andappearance to the Imperial station where Voyager was repaired. It'slikely the Empire constructed it to guard the passage to the wormholefrom future Borg attacks.""Captain," Data continued, "I'm also detecting a vessel, 1.6kilometers in length."Riker turned to Picard. "Big ship.""It is an Imperator-class Star Destroyer," Seven of Nineinformed him. "We encountered three such ships when we first madecontact.""Star...Destroyer?" Picard asked hoping that wasn't meant tobe taken literally."Merely its designation captain. Its weapons output isinsufficient to destroy a solar body."Picard acknowledged and turned to Lt. Thomas McClure. "Use themodifications to the deflector you were given. Open a channel."McClure gave Picard a nod. "This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of theUSS Enterprise. I'm here on behalf of the United Federation ofPlanets. Is this the Galactic Empire?"Finally, there was a response. "This is Commander Crovix.State your business Enterprise.""Not exactly friendly," Riker commented."But understandable under the circumstances, Number One,"Picard replied. "Open the channel again." McClure did so. "We arehere to open negotiations with the Empire. We wish to use thewormhole to travel to meet with your leaders.""Stand by Enterprise," was their only response."Captain," Lt. Travis spoke, "a ship -possibly a shuttle- hasleft the station and is heading for the wormhole.""No doubt to check with their superiors on the other side,"Picard noted.Data turned to Picard. "Captain, sensors indicate familiarenergy signatures coming from the Star Destroyer. The energysignatures are consistent with those left behind by Borg weaponry."Picard turned to Seven of Nine. "Could this have been one ofthe vessels that battled the Borg when Voyager was here?""Possibly," Seven admitted. With that, she got up and strodetowards the viewer. "Focus on the ship and magnify by a factor of 27,"she ordered.Data looked to Picard, who nodded. A close up view of theplate revealed a very faint pattern on the ships hull."This is not the same ship," Seven stated. "The markings onthe hull are not the same.""It seems that the Empire has had more run-ins with the Borg,"Picard said. "Data, any similar signs of damage to the station?""No, sir. It would seem that this was not a defensivebattle.""Which leads us to only one conclusion," Picard said. "Thisstation isn't the front line of defense, it's their fallback point.They've come to fight the Borg.""Who seeks out the Borg?" Riker asked. "It's bad enough whenthey come to you, why go looking for them?""That certainly is a good question, Number One. One I hope tofind an answer to."Before the discussion could continue a communication came infrom the station. "Permission has been granted to enter the wormhole.Once you pass through, you are to rendezvous with the Star DestroyerIncaciad.""That is the command vessel of Admiral Thrawn," Seven informedthe captain, taking her seat."Janeway's savior," Picard said. "Acknowledge thetransmission. Set course for the wormhole half impulse. Engage."And with that, the Enterprise proceeded to the wormhole, anddisappeared from the galaxy."Attention! Borg ships approaching. Prep all TIEs forimmeditate launch."Delric Taar blocked out the redundant commands echoingthroughout the hangar and headed for his ship. The launch crews hadbeen on constant alert, and Taar knew his interceptor would already beset for launch as soon as he reached it. He checked the rest of hissquadron before sealing the hatch, then fired the twin ion engines androared out into space, his squadron close behind. They slipped intoformation, Taar taking the point while his wingman slipped into hiseight. As they swept around, he counted no less than seven Borgcubes. Numbers were still on the Empire's side, but the Borg had aknack for bringing something new to the party; apparently Piett haddecided it was time to do the same."Grey leader this is Ebony leader," Taar said. It was time toput theory into practice, and hope they didn't kill themselves duringthe experiment. "We're going to cross the tee on cube three port.""Acknowledged," was the response from Lt. Starrunner. As theTIEs approached the cube, their ranks broke, shifting to a four-pointdiamond pattern. Ebony 1 took the point of the lead formation,leading the way towards the right-hand side of the Cube. At akilometer out the fomations broke away from one another, looking fortargets of opportunity. The ships began taking random dips and slidesas they approached, trying to reach that age-old balance of beingevasive while staying on target. "Prime target located," Grey 3 saidas the coordinates were sent to his targeting computer. The smallformation made a slight course change and continued - Ebony 1 still inthe lead with Grey 3 at the rear of the formation. It was a riskysituation; the Interceptors were only flying at a fraction of theirtop speed at the moment to allow him to keep in formation. But it wasthe best plan he had for the moment.The cube loomed through the transparisteel window at the frontof his TIE. This is nuts, he thought to himself. You don't go afterblockade runners with Interceptors, nevermind something like this! "Ihave a visual on the target," Taar said aloud. It seemed to be aweapons array of some kind. They raced towards it, then on cue, thetwo TIEs on his eight and four moved accelerated forward, gunsblazing. Their laser cannons splashed across the surface of thearray, but there was little to show for it. The Borg fired back,narrowly missing Ebony 2. It had been random luck that he'd survived,but turning back wasn't an option, so they continued to fire at thearray for all the good it seemed to do."Break formation!" Taar ordered, and the three ships split offfrom one another. Grey 3, now with a clear shot at the weakenedstructure, launched three concussion missiles before pulling away. Themissiles slammed into their target, vaporizing it."Ebony 2 and 3, form up," Taar ordered. "Grey 3 strafing run,we'll cover." The others acknowledged as he swung away from the cubefor the moment. Beyond it he saw the Avenger and Devastator advancingon the Borg's right flank. Turbolasers and Borg energy beamscrisscrossed space, putting their puny fighter attacks to shame. DidI say this was nuts? he thought. I mean this is pointless! It's notlike the Empire isn't going to win this fight regardless of thefighters, why did Piett tip their hand?! But it didn't fall to gruntslike him to make those calls, so instead he executed a tight spin tojoin in on this suicide run.The diamond formation quickly formed up and raced over thesurface of the cube at a mere fifteen meters. The three Interceptorstried providing cover fire for the Grey 3, who was pelting the surfacewith proton bombs. Half-way across the cube he pushed them to fullthrottle, leaving the bomber behind but hopefully providing more of adistraction by firing at targets of opportunity. But one problem withthe Borg was they just didn't take to distractions, and a greentorpedo rose up from the surface and hit the bomber, sending the twopods spiral away and crashing into the surface of the cube. "Pullup!" Taar ordered, but this time an energy beam came up and caughtEbony 2, disintegrating it. Adrenal flooding his veins, Taar put theship into a Korvel Spiral as he raced away, torpedoes filling the airaround him. Finally he pulled clear and formed up with Ebony 3."Ebony Leader to Grey Leader, we've lost our bomber." The command wasacknowledged, but apparently things hadn't been going well forStarrunner's boys. As Taar brought the ship around he saw that theBorg were laying into the Avenger and Devastator, much like they hadagainst the Tyrant. Taar's stomach tightened at the sight. The Borgdidn't care how much damage they suffered so long as they continued towear the Empire down. They could lose ten ships for every one theydestroyed, and it wouldn't matter. How do you fight someone likethat?"Grey Leader to Ebony Leader, head to point 03." Taar pulledhim and his wingmate around to return to their cube, joining up withanother set of TIEs to provide cover for the next bombing run. Thenew formation -five Interceptors and two bombers- once again skimmedthe surface, weapons lashing out at the cube. Again, as if out of nowhere, weapons fire struck at the tiny ships, vaporizing two TIEsinstantly. To avoid being struck by the weapons and debris, Taarpulled a split-S, pulling away from the cube momentarily before hisspin brought him back thirty meters behind his bombers, who continuedtheir strafing of the cube despite the attack. Taar planned toincrease speed and overshoot the bombers to provide further cover whenhe passed over one of the craters formed by a proton bomb. Taarfrowned at the information his targeting sensors were telling him."Ebony 3 do you see what I see?" he called over the comm."Yes sir," ES-13-3 replied. "What do you want to do?"Ebony 1 pulled into a tight loop and began heading for thecrater. "Put some plasma up their collective port," he told him as heopened fire on the crater. The weapons' fire managed to destroy theunshielded bottom of the crater, opening up a passage into the heartof the cube. Throttling back, the two TIEs dove into the entrance tothe Borg ship, firing at their unshielded surfaces. The cubes mayhave had the power to adapt to their laser cannons, but the raw powerwas too much for the helpless drones inside.After about seven hundred meters the two TIEs blasted theirway into a large opening inside the cube. In the center of this spacewas a large, hour-glass shaped structure with several openings alongits sides. Taar looked at his instruments. "What do you think Ebony3?""Looks like a target to me, sir," ES-13-3 called back to himover the comm.Taar smiled inside his pressure suit. "Agreed. Fire at will."The two Interceptors continued their approach, their weapons blowingaway huge chunks out of the shape. Manueverability was difficult, evenat low speeds in this confined area. Finally, their weapons shearedthrough the construct and Taar watched the huge structure collapse inon itself. Immediately, explosions began occurring throughout thecube. The two TIEs turned to continue their volley, when a nearbyexplosion knocked Ebony 3 off course and into the wall, exploding oncontact. Figuring he'd done enough damage in here, Taar headed forthe opening to go back to the surface. The series of explosions weregetting worse, and he started pushing the ship faster and faster. Thisproved to be a near fatal mistake as the passage suddenly narrowedahead. Quickly he twisted his ship on its side and dove into theopening, his lower port solar panel scraping the edge of the passage.It seems that even during that short battle, the Borg had managed torepair some of their ship. Alarms were sounding and in desperation hepushed the ship to full throttle and hoped like hell he'd get outbefore the TIE or the cube blew.Finally he rocketed out of the cube and launched back out intospace. Looking back, he saw explosions consuming various parts of thecubes, and TIEs pulling away from its surface. A stardestroyer, theStalker actually, was finishing it off with a full barrage ofturbolaser fire. Moments after he had escaped, the cube exploded. Asingle piece of debris, just a meter or so long, struck his TIE,completely searing the struts that held it to the starboard solarpanels. The ship had been on its last legs before, now it wascompletely out of control. The Interceptor wouldn't respond to hiscontrols and an energy surge was arcing through some of the panels.Systems were failing, and in an act of desperation he tried to shutdown the engines. As he touched the panel, a surge of energy passedthrough his pressurized suit and into his arm, flooding his body withpain as he seized up. His eyes glazed over, and the universe, dark asit was, became black.War has been described as long periods of boredom interruptedby short periods of excitement. At the moment, Picard felt that peacedidn't seem that different. After all the time he'd spent waiting forhis ship, and then all the time prepping for this meeting, theambassadors had taken over, and he was left twiddling his thumbs at anImperial station. It was the dawn of a new age, perhaps the mostexciting time for humanity since the discovery that we weren't alonein the universe. At the moment, Picard felt like he was stuck in ahole with his sensors off-line.Picard had been lamenting the situation with Riker when thedoor chimed. It was Seven; it seemed to always be Seven. She wasn'ta Borg, not really, but nevertheless, he had trouble letting his guarddown around her, despite how much advice she'd provided throughout themission. Maybe I've become set in my ways, he wondered. I can'tstand hyperspace, I can't stand my advisor, maybe this new age isn'tfor old men like me. "Yes?" he asked, trying to sound neutral andfailing."Admiral Thrawn has asked me to deliver a proposition to you,"Seven informed the captain in the matter-of-fact way she had. "Hesuggests that, to help bridge the gap between our civilizations, wehave an exchange of cultural history.""What exactly does he mean by that?" Riker asked. Riker hadbeen spending the time scanning comm channels, and the longer theywere delayed, the more he became suspicious of the Empire. Perhaps hewasn't ready for this new age either, Picard thought.Seven looked at the PADD. "'Poetry, art, important historicalevents, literature' were the specific examples he gave."Picard nodded; this was exactly what he needed. "Extend theadmiral our thanks, and begin assembling a historical/culturaldatabase to give to the Imperials.""Are you sure that's wise, sir?" Riker asked. "We reallyshouldn't be exchanging any information with them while thenegotiations take place."Picard smiled slightly. "I'm not giving them the access codesfor Starfleet Command, Will. An exchange of culture would be a healthyway to start this meeting, not to mention give us a chance to get toknow the Empire a little better.""Honestly, sir, I think I'm getting to know them quite well.""Will, there's healthy skepticism, and there's paranoia. I'msure there's nothing to fear in letting Admiral Thrawn examine ourworks of art."On board the Redemption. Mon Mothma stepped up to the centralplatform. The high-ranking members of the Alliance were present; theyknew only that something urgent had come in, and rumors were it wasn'tgood. From her grave tone, it seemed that would prove to be true."We've all been wondering what is going on lately, why the Emperor hasdiverted ships and changed his personal agenda so much over the pasttwo months. We now have an answer." A hologram of a section of thegalaxy appeared, focusing in on one particular area until the wholesector was revealed. "Located near the Napuli System is a wormhole toanother galaxy. The wormhole was discovered when ships from the otherside invaded our galaxy."A small murmur of discussion began. Mon Mothma had to speakup in order to be heard. "One is an antagonistic race called the Borg,who attacked and destroyed one of the Star Destroyers in that area.""I take it that's not the good news we'd like to think it is,"Lando said."No. The data our spies have gathered shows that they willattack anyone without provocation. They're extremely dangerous toeveryone, regardless of what side they're on.""Dangerous enough that we should be worried?" Leia asked. "Isthere a chance that they'd destroy the Empire and threaten all of us?""It's not likely," Mon Mothma said."Will we help the Empire, if the situation comes down to it?"Leia asked.Mon Mothma hesitated. "Let's hope we won't have to make thatchoice.""Well, regardless of whose side they're on, at least it'ssomething to keep the Empire busy," Han pointed out."Yes," Mon Mothma replied, "and it's doing just that. TheEmpire has sent a fleet in to deal with the Borg threat, and greatersecurity has been set up in that area of the galaxy.""You said 'one,'" Wedge said. "I take it the Borg weren'talone."No," Mon Mothma said. "The Empire has had some dealings withanother group from the other side of the wormhole. They have alreadygiven information and technology to the Empire, and our spies indicatethey are planning on opening diplomatic relations with the Empire."Leia finally spoke up. "What exactly is the position of thisgroup?" she asked. "What do they want in return for their aide?""From what our sources have gathered, an alliance," Mon Mothmaanswered. The members of the Alliance looked at one another. TheEmpire alone was bad enough. If they had new allies, allies with newtechnology, then it was grim news for the struggling rebellion. "Itseems that we have a new enemy," she said, "and it's called theFederation."CHAPTER VII.Taar opened his eyes slowly. There was a white blur in frontof him, slowly solidifying as the seconds ticked by until shapesemerged. Finally, his vision seemed to clear up and he checked at hisarm. Yes, it was still there. Good. As advanced as cybernetics was,he'd heard about more than one pilot who just couldn't handle a craftthe same again. There's something about the feel of a ship that can'tbe duplicated by a piece of technology.Taar gave the room the once over. The medlab didn't look likethe one on the Stalker; was he on the Executor? Before he could thinkmore about it the door opened; it was an aide rather than a medicaldroid. This likely meant things were about to get worse. "Goodmorning," the aide said as amicably as possible. "Glad to see thatyou've returned to consciousness; we've got some matters to clear up.It won't take but a moment." He pulled out datapad. "First, your suitwas completely overloaded, so we don't even have a name for you."Taar winced slightly as he started to sit up. "Lt. DelricTaar, ES-13-1 stationed on board the star destroyer Stalker."The aide nodded slightly, "A squadron commander... good foryou."Whatever, Taar thought. Save your condescension for someoneelse. "What's the status of Ebony Squadron? How many survivors?""I'm asking the questions," the aide said sharply. "You cancheck their status later, lieutenant." He paused briefly and thencontinued. "I assume you were forced to abandon your craft?""Yes, there was-" Taar paused. So much had happened so fast."The cube exploded, the debris hit my craft. I was lucky to get outalive.""Mm," the aid responded with the expected degree of sympathy."Yes, well, everything seems to be in order," the aide concluded. Itwas, after all, just a TIE; the Empire lost a few every day. If Taarhad lost a shuttle it would have involved an accident investigation,but this drew little more than a glance. "The med-droid says you'llbe fit for duty the day after tomorrow. You'll have your orders then."Then he turned and strode out.With effort, Taar pulled himself up, silently cursing allbureaucrats everywhere. "I'm asking the questions," he thought, andit comes down to name and why his ship went kabloowie. Tiny men inthe grand scheme who push around bits in a datapad; just let me fly myship and lead my men and I'll do whatever you want. He searchedaround until he found his code cylinder and plugged into the network.With a slight note of surprise, he saw that he was on Base One, notthe Executor. They must have evacuated some of the wounded to savespace. He went on to check what information there was about the latestbattle with the Borg. It didn't paint a pretty picture. It had beena victory, of course, but they'd lost the Devastator. This was a bigsetback, even though it wasn't readily apparent. Not only had thatleft the Imperial forces weaker, it also meant the Borg could winbattles due to sheer attrition. The Emperor's plan wasn't working;the Borg weren't backing off, they were testing the Empire's limits.They were planning something... he just hoped the admiral was capableenough to see that and call in some reinforcements.Taar's stomach tightened into a knot as he looked at thefighter results. Only three of the pilots from Ebony squadronsurvived, himself included. Starrunner and his boys had beencompletely wiped out as well. At least they hadn't died for nothing;the stats showed that weapons fire from the cubes Ebony and Greysquadrons had attacked dropped by 38%. It was good from a tacticalstandpoint, but losing so many of his men made it a bitter pill toswallow.Taar disconnected from the network and tried to sleep. He wasexhausted, but sleep didn't come easy. His mind was filled withimages of Borg drones being cut down by his laser cannons and of thatcube exploding from the inside out. He wanted to do that again... hewanted to fly in there and blow the living crap out of them, likepouring gasoline down an anthill and lighting a match. He forcedhimself to put his thoughts aside and rest. Only if he properlyrecovered would he get the chance to relive that vision.The Emperor opened his eyes and watched Mara Jade continuingher exercises. At the moment she was trying to move multiple objectswith her mind. Her frustration with her failure was obvious. "Good,"he said, causing her to jerk slightly at his sudden comment. "Angeris a source of power. Reach in and harness it, feel the hate flowingthrough you, empowering you!" Mara nodded and went at it again withrenewed vigor. Soon objects were swirling around the throne room likea whirlwind. They dropped when the Emperor's haunting chuckle reachedher ears. "Good, very good. You're learning well, my youngapprentice." He paused as the door opened and Darth Vader appeared.Vader's walk slowed as he approached the throne, noting Mara'spresence. There was an undercurrent of mutual hate. "Leave us," theEmperor told the girl, and she nodded and walked out. Vader steppedbefore the Emperor and kneeled, rising only when he was told to."I sense something is troubling you, my friend," the Emperorsaid."Yes, master." Vader paused. "'And there shall forever be nomore than two, one the master, and one his student, lest the way ofthe Sith be lost forever.'" Vader said, quoting the words of DarthBane that had ensured the survival of the Sith for millennia. "Havewe given up on old ways?""Yes, we have," the Emperor said matter-of-factly. "No longerdo we lurk in the shadows, fearing the Jedi. I felt the disturbancewhen that little green imp died; and with him dies the ways of theJedi. We are the only ones now who have the power of the Force, andit is time we used it to the fullest.""And so you train this one?" Vader asked. "She is nothingmore than a convenient spy-""I will decide who I will train," the Emperor said sharply. "Itrain her as I will the young Skywalker. That was, after all, yoursuggestion, Lord Vader." The Emperor gave a moment to reflect on thatfact. "I have foreseen her, Vader, leading our forces against ourenemies, with your son at her side.""So he will join us.""Oh yes. The details are difficult to see, but he willembrace the power of the dark side.""Forgive my doubt, my master," Vader said with a nod ofrespect.The Emperor nodded in return. "What is the status of theDeath Star?""It will be finished within the next ninety days, my master.""I see it's not on schedule.""No, the men have been suitably disciplined."The Emperor's throne rotated slightly. "It is of noconsequence. It will serve its purpose when needed. I have summonedyou for an entirely different reason." Vader waited patiently, hismechanical breathing the only sound filling the chamber. "I havenearly completed negotiations with diplomats from the Federation, apuny civilization in the galaxy beyond the wormhole. You will travelwith the diplomatic corps that returns to their homeworld.""Why should we be concerned with this insignificant group?"Vader asked."Because, the Federation is our foothold, Lord Vader. Throughthem, we will seize control of their entire galaxy."The Lambda-class shuttle slipped into hyperspace as Lt. Taarmoved into the cockpit of the small craft. He was the only passengeron board the tiny shuttle, just him and a hold full of technicalequipment sent out to rendezvous with the fleet on the front line.Taar wondered what was happening out there. The last engagement hadbeen the one he'd been in, just under a week ago. The Borg hadactually bloodied the Empire's nose that time, it should have onlystrengthened their resolve... if Borg could have resolve, that is.Instead they'd pulled back, left their worlds undefended. No, theywere up to something, and he didn't think he was going to like it whenhe found it."So, why are you being sent off to Borg central?" the pilotasked in an off the cuff way.Taar looked him over for a moment before replying. "I'mrendezvousing with my star destroyer. I was sent back to Base One toget stitched up after the last engagement.""Ah, let me guess, TIE pilot, right?""That's right," Taar said with disinterest.The man gave a low whistle. "You know, they got twocategories for TIE fighter pilots: rookies, and frozen meat.""Right," was Taar's only reply as he tried to ignore thepilot. He didn't seem to take the hint."Happiest day of my life was when I was assigned totransports," the pilot said with a grin. "The Imperial meat grinderis not the place for me, no thank you

Good stuff. Looking forward to the next 36 chapters.

 

[Runningman]

No interest in: The Truce at Bakura?or The Yuuzhan Vong War?I thought the books were good and provide at least a decent premise.

Not really. I mean "therotically" anything could work but if I am disney I'm not tieing myself to some obscure (to the general public) book that may or may not be well written to use as the basis for my next 200 million dollar movie. The only people who care about the canon are people who are going to come to the new movie anyway. Plain and simple. I would be really surprised if the plot of the next movies involves anything that has been written or mentioned before.

 

[anakin]

This will not be the Star Wars you are looking for.Luke, Vader and the gang will probably not even be involved. They won't revamp the name but explain another part of the whole Star Wars universe. Characters won't be recognized as they will be new. Places may be much different. No Tatooine or Hoth or Naboo. I would not mind seeing the rise of the clone army with the building of the Death Star. All those private contractors who died with the second Death Star might be a good story. All I'm saying is we will not recognize this new Star Wars.

Link? Or rank speculation on your part?

I think he is referring to the Star Wars ride in Orlando. A non-descript robot is your tour guide and you are led around the Star Wars universe. I loved the Zahn written books and I would hope something could come out of thoses. I doubt it though. Hamil, Ford, and Fisher are too old to be in the time frame Lucas had supposidly sketched out Ep 7-9. Those were speculated to be about the Skywalker/Solo children and the New Republic. There are many stories to tell, but I doubt we see a Vader, Solo, or Fett movie until after the re-launch.

 

[NCCommish]

No interest in: The Truce at Bakura?or The Yuuzhan Vong War?I thought the books were good and provide at least a decent premise.

Not really. I mean "therotically" anything could work but if I am disney I'm not tieing myself to some obscure (to the general public) book that may or may not be well written to use as the basis for my next 200 million dollar movie. The only people who care about the canon are people who are going to come to the new movie anyway. Plain and simple. I would be really surprised if the plot of the next movies involves anything that has been written or mentioned before.

As obscure as the first script? And a lot of the books have made the best seller list. They are no more obscure than any other best seller. Lastly the millions of people that bought those books are your core audience, everyone else is just along for the ride.

 

[Psychopav]

This will not be the Star Wars you are looking for.Luke, Vader and the gang will probably not even be involved. They won't revamp the name but explain another part of the whole Star Wars universe. Characters won't be recognized as they will be new. Places may be much different. No Tatooine or Hoth or Naboo. I would not mind seeing the rise of the clone army with the building of the Death Star. All those private contractors who died with the second Death Star might be a good story. All I'm saying is we will not recognize this new Star Wars.

Link? Or rank speculation on your part?

I think he is referring to the Star Wars ride in Orlando. A non-descript robot is your tour guide and you are led around the Star Wars universe. I loved the Zahn written books and I would hope something could come out of thoses. I doubt it though. Hamil, Ford, and Fisher are too old to be in the time frame Lucas had supposidly sketched out Ep 7-9. Those were speculated to be about the Skywalker/Solo children and the New Republic. There are many stories to tell, but I doubt we see a Vader, Solo, or Fett movie until after the re-launch.

I don't have a link for you, but I have read that the whole concept of 7-9 fell apart when he realized he might be looking at only making the one movie in '77. At that point, he retooled the story. This included introducing a wookie in ANH, as Wookies and Kashyyyk were not supposed to even show up until Ep 6.

 

[shader]

Here is a visual I keep seeing of "Vader":

It's a dark street. The buildings look surprisingly human. It could be any street in the world but it doesn't matter because you don't see anything except the back of a figure from the chest down to the waist and you can hear him walking. Then you see someone step out and tell the figure to stop. You then see him pull out the saber and turn it on and then you hear the breathing while the person in the distance immediately cowers in fear.

Disney HAS to cash in on Vader and even though all the early rumors point to a 7,8 and 9....I think they need to make the obvious choice while they can.

Protagonist? Bring back Yoda and Obi-wan. No one seems to like the prequels anyway. How hard would it be to bring them out of hiding. I mean is it so hard to believe that they hopped on ships and tried to stop Vader one last time?

 

[shader]

This will not be the Star Wars you are looking for.

Luke, Vader and the gang will probably not even be involved. They won't revamp the name but explain another part of the whole Star Wars universe.

Characters won't be recognized as they will be new. Places may be much different. No Tatooine or Hoth or Naboo.

I would not mind seeing the rise of the clone army with the building of the Death Star. All those private contractors who died with the second Death Star might be a good story. All I'm saying is we will not recognize this new Star Wars.

Link? Or rank speculation on your part?

I think he is referring to the Star Wars ride in Orlando. A non-descript robot is your tour guide and you are led around the Star Wars universe. I loved the Zahn written books and I would hope something could come out of thoses. I doubt it though. Hamil, Ford, and Fisher are too old to be in the time frame Lucas had supposidly sketched out Ep 7-9. Those were speculated to be about the Skywalker/Solo children and the New Republic. There are many stories to tell, but I doubt we see a Vader, Solo, or Fett movie until after the re-launch.

Probably right. The one advantage to doing a Vader movie first is that James Earl Jones is still alive. Hard to fill that role with someone else.If I'm Disney I pay JEJ a buttload of money and just have him come in and say about a million lines that run the gamut of every conceivable plotline.