Mission Briefing

[Cptn Elias Moore 0]

NX-05 Challenger

Mission Briefing -- May 5, 2156

 

A rust-colored cloud pierced by spots of brilliant light dominates the Orion transport's viewscreen. In a century, it will be one of the most well-known nebulae in the galaxy, positioned nearly at the nexus of three interstellar superpowers--the Federation, the Romulan Empire, and the Klingon Empire. Currently, few Humans are aware of its existence, fewer still know its name--the Briar Patch--and only a select handful know of that name's curious origin.

 

"Tangelia!" The Orion helmsman says, indicating the nebula on the screen. "Dosheka call it Klach D'Kel Brakt. Don't know if Humans have named it."

 

"Is it safe to enter?" Captain Moore asks.

 

"Not very safe, no." The helmsman answers. "But it is good place for hiding; ship scanners have trouble getting through. There are safe paths if you know how to see the signs of danger, or if you know where you are going."

 

Moore nods. The perfect place to set up a station like Mingavon, whose owners desire secrecy. And if the nebula has a well-known Klingon name, it is likely that a substantial portion of it borders or occupies Klingon space.

 

The telltale clanking of the transport's lift announces that Rago is on his way to the Bridge. Moore turns just in time to see the massive Orion being escorted off the lift by two security guards. He now has the same drunken look on his face as the rest of the Orions on the ship. "Captain! Looking good! If I didn't know you were a man, I'd be positively enamored!"

 

"I see you've had a chance to enjoy the transport's new environment, Rago." Moore says. He nods back toward the viewscreen. "As you see, we've arrived at your nebula. Now, if you help our helmsman here steer us to Mingavon, I'll see to arranging some private time between you and one of my female officers."

 

"Really?" An eager look spreads across Rago's face.

 

"Either that or I won't have you shot." Moore answers. "You're a winner regardless."

 

As a disappointed Rago is ushered toward the helm console, Moore turns to Ambassador Rex, acting as impromptu First Officer with Commander Cole debilitated by a sudden allergic reaction to the Orion pheromones. "Notify the crew that we'll be arriving soon."

 

The ship lurches forward and the cloud on the viewscreen looms nearer. The view conjures up mental images of the underworld of epic tales, an image that fits the crew's voyage well--the nebula is home to six of the key players of the Orion underworld, and beyond the threshold lies the danger of Klingon space...