ZE/D09 - Holodecks

[Paul]

==

[Gath]

Gath had spent some time looking into what would be the safest environment to wake their guest in. He decided upon an outdoor situation. It would appear as if they were in the middle of a huge park. They should arrive in the center of a large grass clearing. The ground should be level and the nearest trees should seem distant enough that it would be too far to run for cover. The holodeck would have a high security containment field around it, though it would not be visible. He wanted to be safe, even if they somehow tried to escape it physically. Normal program matrix protocols would make it appear as if there was infinite space to run and explore, but the idea was to create a neutral environment that would facilitate communication.

He had a table and sturdy chairs appear. His next obvious thought was that if they became violent, the furniture would dematerialize if it were picked up more than a few inches. This was quickly followed by instructions for the computer to place a personal shield in front of any crew member in the program, but it could be negated by a simple verbal command.

Gath then brought up his scans and had the computer create a display of the scanned creature. Soon, a static image of the creature was standing in front of Gath, like a statue. A thought instantly came to him and he looked at the hands of it to see how many fingers or other appendages it had. I might aid them in figuring out what they number system was based on.

He continued to work on small things with the program to try and set things up with the goal of trying to keep everyone safe while they tried to establish a means of communicating. Gath hoped that none of his precautions would be necessary, but it was better to be safe than sorry.

== GM input: How many fingers do these creatures have? Any other details worth noting? ==

[Morad Ameen]

== GM-Broken Arrow ==

As the holodeck's optical processors rendered the 1:1 scale, static model of the alien, Lt Gath was granted his first clear, unhurried look at the species they had pulled from the ice.

Standing in the simulated, sunlit park, the creature's brutal efficiency was undeniable. Approaching the hands to investigate their number system, Gath would immediately notice a stark deviation from standard humanoid biology. The alien possessed six digits on each hand: four long, heavily knuckle-jointed central fingers, flanked by two opposable thumbs—one on the inside, and one on the outside of the palm.

This dual-thumb structure not only granted them an inescapable, vice-like physical grip—perfect for high-gravity environments or heavy combat—but it also strongly suggested that their society utilized a Base-12 mathematical system, which perfectly aligned with the highly complex, easily divisible fractal equations the Science team was currently decoding.

Stepping back to observe other details, the high-resolution projection revealed several other specialized biological traits. They possessed no external ears to be torn or damaged in combat; instead, they had flush, reinforced auditory slits on the sides of their thick skulls, likely designed to protect their inner ear from massive concussive shockwaves. Caught mid-blink by the Sickbay scanners, the projection also showed a thick, semi-translucent membrane—a secondary eyelid—retracting over the eye, providing built-in protection against debris or harsh atmospheric conditions. Finally, upon closer inspection of their uniform, Gath would note that the heavy, utilitarian jumpsuit had absolutely no visible seams, zippers, or fasteners. It appeared to have been woven or replicated directly onto the subject, made of a slick, friction-resistant synthetic polymer that integrated seamlessly with microscopic bio-monitors at the collar and wrists.

They were not just biologically engineered; they were perfectly adapted survival machines.

[Gath]

Gath gave a slow and heavy sigh as he looked upon the holographic image of the creature he had scanned. He really hoped he was wrong, but his instincts were telling him he was right to have been cautious. He took detailed notes and shook his head slowly as he continued to find more and more reasons to worry about waking these creatures up. He was well versed in the tools and art of combat. He did not worship carnage like some of his kin did, but he studied it and understood it. He had killed foes in battle, but his only pride was in his skills, which he considered an art of war. He took no joy in the death of another, only in the actions of saving a life in danger. You killed if it was necessary, but never without purpose. These creatures would be hard to kill. Their bone density alone was impressive, but combined with all of the other details...he would be hard pressed to take one down if they were trained fighters. He tried to look for vulnerable points, but there were few and they were hard to get to. Their circulatory system gave them a very efficient flow of blood to the body and appeared to have redundancies to help control blood loss.

When he had finally prepared his preliminary report, he tapped his comm badge and said, "Gath to Ameen. Sir, I've been preparing a holographic simulation to try and isolate our guests, should we elect to wake one. That was the easy part. I used our current scans of them to create a rendering of one to get a closer look at them outside of their pods and...well...Sir, I think we might have a problem. I highly recommend against waking any of them. I don't know that we can contain them securely on this ship. I've prepared a preliminary report, but I strongly suggest we make sure they are in a very secure location before we consider waking any of them."

======================
Preliminary Report
Chief of Security, Lt Gath, Initial Observations

Bone density and muscle structure built for increased gravity will make them very strong and durable.
Bones are laced with some traces of metallic components, making them not only reinforced, but conductive.
Eyes have extra lid to avoid particulates and possibly aid in more severe light conditions.
Skeletal structure and organ placement built to protect aggressive assault.
Possible redundancies in organ systems to help sustain excessive trauma and breathe in unfriendly atmosphere.
External tissue appears resistant to exposure and would likely be able to sustain more than brief exposure to harsh temperatures and even vacuum.
Hands are built for opposing pressure applied strength for a crushing grip and able to maintain it for long duration.
Ears are externally negligible and although might give less ability to detect direction, the sensitivity is unknown.

Additionally, the hands show a six digit construction with two opposable thumbs. This suggests their numbers might be based on six digits, but given the complexity of their limited technological resources, I would presume a 12 based system. This would easily fit into the same number systems independently developed by many cultures already known, thus making them capable of understanding a common math system to our own.

It appears this crew might be designed for the purpose of this mission, though that is my own speculation. Their garments are very durable and appear to have been made without the intention of them needing to come off, or they are a disposable garment intended to last a very long time. For more medical details, I refer you to the Medical staff. I'll let you know when I have more.

End Report
======================

== Tag to all ==

[Morad Ameen]

[Lieutenant Gath.] Ameen voice came through the ship's comm system. [Coordinate directly with Doctor O'Fee. We are not waking this subject in Sickbay. I am authorizing the transport of one pod to your prepared Holodeck simulation. I want maximum containment fields, weapons restricted to heavy stun, and full quarantine protocols active before the Doctor administers the revival stimulant.]

There was a short pause.

[Lieutenant Ra'an, Midshipman Cortez just forwarded his linguistic analysis. It confirms your team's theories—they communicate in pure, constant mathematics. Lock down that Faraday cage, and maybe bring a calculator... The Holodeck is our First Contact point. Make it safe. Ameen out.]

[Amila Ra'an]

[Understood, Commander,]

Amila's voice replied over the comms.

[They are already pretty far along, A'kilees is doing some checks now on the Faraday Cage, and we should be ready to open the module soon on your command.]

[Amila Ra'an]

== NRC  Petty Officer Oleah sh'Söjress, Science Andorian Shen ==


[Petty Officer Oleah sh'Söjress to Chief of Security, Lieutenant Gath.]

The voice that came over Gath's comm low, but feminine with a breathy air to her words, making her voice sound just shy of raspy. There was a pause that was just slightly too long before she continued.

[Lieutenant Ra'an asked me to check in to see if my assistant was needed on the holodeck, sir. Xenoanthropologist, sir. Linguist certifications.]


==Tag Gath, Holodeck People==

[Gath]

In his own low and rumbling voice, Gath replied, "Gath here. I'm sure your skills will be in high demand. I suggest that you see how things go there first. What we get from that box will be the most important and your input could be very valuable. Once they are looking to integrate the data, follow the work. I the event that efforts to open the box trigger an...event...our efforts will be to transport any of them that begin to wake to the holodeck. If that should happen, or even if things go well, the next step will be to prepare to speak with them on the holodeck. I've done my best to anticipate all contingencies, but your work in assisting to directly communicate could save more lives than my security preparations. My efforts are to keep people from harm, but your efforts could mean the survival or extinction of a species. I will continue to stand by. Please keep me informed, Petty Officer Oleah sh'Söjress."

[Amila Ra'an]

The Chief Science Officer's voice sounded over Gath's commbadge.

[Lieutenant Ra'an to Captain Ameen, Dr. O'fee, and Lieutenant Gath. If you are able, please report to the Science Lab. You'll want to see this for yourselves.]

[Gath]

Gath was glad to finally hear from the team and that they might not need his program after all. He tapped his comm badge and replied, "Acknowledged. I'm on my way."

>>> Science Labs >>>

[Gath]

<<< Science Labs <<<

As Gath returned to the running program, he verified the containment fields were ready as well as a couple of Security Officers with weapons standing by in case they were needed. They would remain hidden by the holographics, but they were in full tactical armor and had slung rifles and sidearms. Gath had a device with small isolinear tags that he could quickly attach to their guest as soon as the pod was opened. He would try to simply attach it to the clothing so as not to injure them. He placed a small table so they could have the food and stimulant standing by, in the event that the creature knew to use them as part of his process of waking from hibernation.

Gath would not wear a sidearm, hoping to appear less threatening as well as to send the message that he also did not feel as threatened by them. In his experience, a leader often did not wear a standard weapon, showing he gave orders and others would handle mundane fighting. It was only when called upon that a warrior leader might then arm himself. To this end, Gath was indeed wearing his personal weapon on his belt, but it appeared as a small batton of only 25 cm in length. The axe blade or blades would not unfold until triggered.

Taking a deep breath, he tried to mentally prepare himself for the moment. This was to be diplomacy first, so it required his stoic and calm approach first and foremost. Calm and reactive to physical threats were more likely to keep things from escalating and direct use of force was not likely to help in any case. He anticipated that if they refused to talk, he would first initiate a transport to a location 100 meters outside the ship. Then, after a few seconds, bring them back and try again. They could survive quite a while out there, but with no means of moving or breathing, it would be a strong display that they could be neutralized effortlessly at will. They wouldn't know it was an empty threat as the crew had no intention of wishing them harm, but if needed, they could be left out there until they expired, with no risk to the crew. To this end, he had a small remote initiator in his hand that was all he required for the computer to initiate the transport of the designated target. Gath intended to point it at the creature as part of his demonstration. Should things go wrong and the creature take the device from him, he would likely point it at one of them, but initiating the switch would still only affect the creature and not any of them.

These were all good plans, but the saying of no plan survives first contact was ever on his mind. He really hoped that they would be reasonable and let Star Fleet help them to accomplish their goals. Still, with these calculations, even if they could maintain warp 8 the entire time, it would take nearly 7 years to get there. not only could a ship not maintain that speed for that long, they would need to refuel, resupply and that was more than you could ask of a single crew. Even if you could put them back in hibernation, it would require a crew to maintain the ship or they were likely to need rescuing again along the way. Autonomy only got you so far. things wore out, broke down and there were just too many variables in the universe to think you could go for that long without something going wrong.

== Tag to the team ==

[Evie O’Fee]

<<< Sickbay<<<<

Entering the Holodeck with Gath, she couldn't help but to be impressed by his logic. If you start any kind of a relationship on a lie, then full trust can never be achieved. She thought he was cute to boot, but still needed to keep the professional front. Even when it comes to waking up anyone she was against it, but supported the choice to. She had faith that all preparations put in place would work, with hopes that they will be peaceful. Evie would hate to use her attitude readjustment tools, that included the one she kept up her sleeve. 

She was grateful that everything she needed was there, holding the large needle it was the only thing that was going to be able to penetrate their skin. Evie had the thought that it would take a lot to do it, the top person to do it was him. "Lieutenant Gath." She had the syringe in her hand. "At some point we are going to need to inject this into our guest, its a spring loaded to make it through their flesh. I estimate the recoil on this is going to be so high, this will be a projectile in my hands." She looked at his arm for a second.

"In your hand." Evie made sure he would see her action to release the needle. "Your large muscle mass will be able to handle the recoil I can't." Evie suddenly had the funny thought of her injecting their patient, she would feel what its like to fly as both her and the syringe were tossed across the room. No matter how she landed it was always going to be a hard one. She was going to need to keep an eye on the patients vitals, everything was running smoothly in Sickbay so her focus was completely here. 

==Tag==

[Gath]

Looking at the device, Gath had to ask, "What was wrong with their own delivery system for the medication th e y brought with them. Obviously it was designed to penetrate and deliver without fail. We extracted a substance from one, so I would think it was logical to place a new substance inside it. I'm not a medical professional though, so perhaps there is reasoning I'm not seeing. In either case, I'm happy to attempt delivering it, should we need to. I AM a logical choice for such a task."

He considered for a moment, "Doctor, safety was my primary concern,  so this holodeck program has been designed with a number of contingencies. For starters, there's no furniture. Should combat become unavailable, this means all other options have failed. Do not panic. It thrown, you'll find any impact to be greatly reduced and unlike to inflict damage. It won't mitigate direct crushing or joint manipulation trauma, but the holodeck itself will not act the same against you as impacting actual ground material. There is also an active lock on each persong in here by the computer. If you determine the need, you need only say emergency transport and the name and they will appear in Sickbay. Should you use the term emergency eject, our guest will be placed 100 meters outside the ship. The room has a standard inverse containment field. This is in the case that they might be able to see in a spectrum that bypasses the holographic system, they will be unable to physically attack the structure."

Indicating a color coded area, he continued, "That area is set to their gravity, to give them comfort, but will change to our default if any contingency element is engaged. In addition you can tell the computer and it will also go to default, so that we will not be adversely impacted by the increased gravity."

He then placed hands on hips and gave a small sigh, his demeanor being a shift to less formal and more personal, "I've tried to do what I could, but I'm open to anything you might think I missed. I ask you for two reasons. First of all, I respect you and your opinions, secondly you're going to be in here potentially risking your life and that's not to be taken lightly."

Gath looked her directly in the eye and waited to see what she had to say.

== Tag Evie O'Keefe ==

[Evie O’Fee]

In every other set of circumstances Evie wouldn't really need protection, her hands were the things that really needed the protection. In a few short seconds that Gath explained what they did, all of her concerns were put into effect. She had a bit of a calming sigh, she still had a bit of nerves to work out. The six inches that he towered over her seemed larger, next time she might think about wearing heels, or even platform shoes. It would even come in handy while talking to her other Doctor, man is huge. 

"I guess you have everything handled." Evie had a feeling that Gath would get in between her and danger, it was like anything back at the pub. This time she didn't have her twin sister, it always made her feel a little more secure. Being Chief Medical Officer she couldn't send another to be in potentially the most dangerous part of the ship, they had everything going great in Sick Bay. 

"I am sure you have everything covered Mr. Gath, after this we should have a drink. Too many people can't handle it as much as they think." Looking at him again. "You might be able to handle it like the Irish, who knows." She had a devilish grin, all while keeping calm in this strange event that was happening. When the pods were beamed to their location, it was going to require every bit of focus she had. 

==Tag==

[Gath]

At the invitation for a drink, Gath gave a rare grin, "I look forward to it Doctor O'Fee. I take that as a compliment and am quite curious to find out what it means to handle something like the Irish."

His grin actually shifted to match her own devilish one. As a rule, he was known for his stoic and business attitude, but when caught alone, especially not around lower ranks, he could be known to soften up considerably. O'Fee had learned that the stoic demeanor was really just his effort to be professional while on the job. When not on duty, he was quite different and his views on art and diplomacy were not typical of most modern Klingons.

== Tag O'Fee ==

[Evie O’Fee]

Evie had a evil grin for a second. "Yes it is a compliment Mr. Gath, the term drunk under the table is an English thing. They look up to us.. or possibly at us because they are drunk under the table." She shrugged it off. Evie had a special brew that you can't enjoy too close to a open flame. It's one of those drinks where not many remember what happens after three, no one should enjoy more than four. 

This was a good temporary distraction for her, when she does get into it Evie would be calmer about it. Evie was fully invested to make sure this goes smoothly, her number one focus was going to be her patient. "We can sing songs while we drink, English only do that during football." It was one of those things you have to go through to fully understand.

==Tag==

[Gath]

At first, Gath's eyebrows went up in obvious surprise,  then the doctor heard something unique, Gath laughed. It was a deep and genuine laugh.

"Well, your people sound quite spirited!" His grin matched her own. He seemed to consider her again, looking at her as if trying to find something. He had been quite aware of his deliberate play on the word spirited and was deciding what to say next. "I confess I have read about some of your history, but I know I've only scratched the surface. I know of tales of warriors and great deeds, but what I find very telling are the songs of more common people. There are good stories in many and they have such emotion. Folk songs and sea shanties are good examples. I fell in love with something called blues and they all go well with meals and good drinks. You can learn much about people from their songs."

Gath thought a moment, "Irish and English...there's a rivalry there. I look forward to you elaborating on this more. I love learning about other cultures and their history, some can be quite fascinating."

== Tag O'Fee ==

[Evie O’Fee]

Gath was almost well aware of how spirited her people were, while he was talking Evie brought her right leg up until her knee was just below her chest. She was doing the standing splits and leaned back so that she was touching the floor, to finish Evie did a slow cartwheel. "The easiest explanation I can give between English and Irish, its a lot like Bajorans and Cardassians. The difference was we were forced to fight in their armies, but that was a long time ago and we are not as bitter about it these days." 

The waiting part was the very thing that was killing Evie, everything said she was keeping her mind occupied. "One day my friend you should look up River Dance, it is enjoyable to watch unless it was the shoulders up. In that case they wouldn't see much of anything, just turning of the head without much of any expressions. 

Evie wasn't much for being nervous but this was really coming out of her, this was her first assignment with the ship and she really wanted to do this right. "Tell me something about the Klingon Male, how do you romance your women?" It was something on her mind for a while, but never had anyone really to ask. She knew a few things about the Klingon Mating rituals, and how they made the local doctor blush when they asked what happened. They had to go to a different town all together when it was the three of them, they were some wild times that they would never forget.

==Tag==

[Gath]

Gath was impressed by the doctor's display of flexibility, "It's good to see that you're maintaining an exemplary level of physical fitness. I need not express the importance to such a knowledgeable professional as yourself."

She then surprised him with her question. It was hard to tell, but a trained observer would be able to observe a hint of a blush. He grinned and began, "Well, for most Klingons, I will admit that over the generations the behavior has become increasingly animalistic. I can't say that I approve,  but I do understand how it has devolved into such a practice. It was not always so. Long ago, it was more customary to display mutual skill in combat with each other. The intent was not to injure a potential mate, but to impress each other with mutual skill. It reflected that each was capable on their own and didn't need the other, but chose them. Each needed to feel their mate was their equal. Over time, this has degraded to barbaric displays and sadly many now pride themselves on acting animalistic in their lack of control. I myself prefer to cling to the traditional desire to respect each other. We strive for skill and personal best in our accomplishments. This is not to say that certain expressions of passion are not enjoyed, but as with all people, it is extremely important to be in tune with your partner, understanding their needs and desires."

In an attempt to turn the tables, he tried a verbal turn, "I fear a more colorful discourse might be inappropriate without drinking being involved. So, now your turn, Doctor. How do your people like to be shown romantic interest?"

== Tag O'Fee ==

[Evie O’Fee]

It was interesting to hear about how Klingons romance their women, honestly sometimes there wasn't really much of a difference. When it came to romancing the Irish there were many ways to go about it. "To be honest Mr. Gath there isn't much of a difference between Klingon and Irish, both equally as subtitle as a brick through a window." It was more than slightly amusing.

"When we are talking about romancing a women that depends, we are a forward kind of people I am not sure if you noticed but we are a forward kind of people. Men show how physical they can be, its mostly showing off and grabbing my backside sometimes even with both hands. Women can be worse when perusing what they want, they are not above grabbing things that a man would be slugged for. There is the aggressive side of dating, and then there is the traditional." Evie had a memory of back at home of the pub, great memories.

"The traditional that is seldomly done anymore a man would ask permission of the parents before the dating starts, how long it takes before anything else happens varies." Evie had a bit of chuckle. "Come to think of it one of my dates started with a quick swat to the fanny, and an invitation to dinner." It was a nice dinner in a niceish restaurant, that had good food and drink. "There is more but I think we are going to need a powerful drink to go along with it, but you need to be careful. Irish drink has a way to bite in ways you can't imagine." The family homebrew would be difficult for people to handle, but he had a shot.

==Tag==

[Morad Ameen]

The Holodeck arch hissed open, briefly fracturing the illusion of the serene, sunlit park before sealing shut behind the arriving Science team.

Commander Ameen stepped onto the holographic grass, followed closely by Lieutenant Ra'an holding the dormant crystalline module, with Midshipmen Cortez and A'kilees flanking her. Ameen took in the environment instantly—the open sightlines, the lack of makeshift weapons, the invisible containment fields Gath had programmed. It was a perfectly calculated tactical arena disguised as a peaceful meadow.

His eyes then fell on his Security Chief, and Dr. O'Fee, who was holding a heavy, spring-loaded syringe.

"Excellent work on the environment, Lieutenant Gath," Ameen said as he crossed the clearing to join them. He quickly brought the two officers up to speed. "Midshipmen Cortez and A'kilees managed to crack the black box's language cipher right before we left the lab. The individual we are about to wake is designated as an 'Apex Protector.' Their final, hard-coded standing order is to eliminate any external variables that threaten their cargo. When they wake up and realize they are not in their sanctuary, their first instinct might be to classify us as exactly that."

He looked at the syringe in Evie's hand, then gave her an approving nod for delegating the physical injection to the strongest officer in the room.

"No disguises. We meet them exactly as we are," Ameen instructed, his voice dropping into a deadly serious cadence. He turned directly to Evie. "Doctor O'Fee, signal your medical team. Beam the designated Leader's pod directly to these coordinates."

He squared his shoulders, looking around at the assembled team. "Prepare for First Contact."

[Gath]

Gath eyebrows once more went up almost comically as he struggled not to smile too widely, "Both hands you say?" He pointedly glanced to her backside, his struggle became a losing battle, "Really?" He debated saying anything, but then compromised to, "I will admit that I have done so, but she was facing me and I feel that further description might be inappropriate at this time. Suffice to say that we had passed the courtship part of the evening. I'm not sure I could imagine a situation where such behavior would be something I would be comfortable with in public. It isn't a matter of passion or desire,  but comes back to respect. To do so publicly, that invites such behavior from others in the future."

He looked up, thinking, "Now that I think about it, there was a woman that was aggressive in her grabbing; but I was impressed by her for her skill in how she did it. She did so in such a way that nobody else was aware, especially the man who she had arrived with. Thus, she not only got my attention and declared her interest, but has earned my respect for her skills. She was...impressive."

When she tried to impress upon him the dangers of her cultural beverages, he chuckled, "I have had the misfortune of consuming it in the purest form. I don't like it. I prefer there to be at least some flavor and I'm no longer young and foolish enough to drink it once it has been lit on fire. I will gladly try your drink, whatever it might be."

The rest of the team then entered the program and Gath became all business once more.

== Tag O'Fee and team  ==

[Morad Ameen]

== GM-Broken Arrow ==

The moment Dr. O'Fee's authorization was routed to Sickbay, the Holodeck's internal comm system chimed with an automated alert.

[Sickbay to Holodeck One. Medical transport of designated Stasis Pod One initiated.]

The air in the center of Gath's simulated grassy clearing began to shimmer with the familiar hum of a Federation annular confinement beam. However, the sheer density of the alien pod, combined with the heavy, conductive metallics woven into its occupant's skeletal structure, caused the beam to whine with a heavy power draw before finally solidifying.

With a heavy, audible thud that briefly compressed the holographic grass beneath it, the massive stasis pod materialized.

The moment it fully resolved, having been severed from the shared power umbilical in Sickbay, the pod reacted exactly as the medical diagnostics had predicted. A low, vibrating hum began to emanate from the heavy outer casing as the emergency internal battery took over. The layer of frost coating the outside of the pod began to rapidly sublimate into a thick, cold mist that rolled out over the simulated park.

Near the top of the pod, a panel illuminated with deep, amber geometric fractals. Thanks to the linguistic breakthrough by Cortez and A'kilees, the Universal Translator instantly overlaid the mathematics with Starfleet Standard on the team's tricorders.

[WARNING: UMBILICAL SEVERED. AUTOMATIC REVIVAL PROTOCOL INITIATED.]
[T-MINUS 15 MINUTES TO DE-STASIS.]

The clock had officially started. They had exactly fifteen minutes to configure the UT's musical translation, get into position, and have Gath administer Dr. O'Fee's chemical cocktail, or the occupant would wake up without a coagulant and suffer massive, fatal internal hemorrhaging.

[Sebastian Cortez]

Sebastian was excited; this was his first detailed look at the Aliens, these genetically enhanced Super Soldiers. He didn’t fully understand the Federation's strict ban on genetic enhancement or augmentation for its member species. He understood that you could end up with a Khan Noonien Singh, but that was when Genetic Engineering was in its infancy. Genetic Enhancements, if done properly, can be very beneficial to society, like when it comes to, say, a Class L World, marginally habitable, Challenges being a thin atmosphere and limited water. Temperature extremes. a desert world with Genetic engineering, you could have Humanoids with larger lungs and greater oxygen efficiency, enhanced water conservation similar to desert animals, increased tolerance to dehydration, improved heat and cold regulation, ability to enter short-term metabolic conservation states. Comparable to making humans biologically similar to camels and high-altitude mammals. Other societies utilize Denobulan genetic engineering as a stark contrast to Earth’s restrictive policies. Denobulans utilized genetic manipulation for over two centuries, primarily to eradicate diseases and fix congenital anomalies. Unlike the Earth-shattering Eugenics Wars, their controlled genetic practices were a routine part of daily life with broadly positive, non-augmentative results.

In this instance, he wished they had more time to study these Aliens and gauge the level of Genetic Manipulation or Genetic Engineering they had reached, whether they were dealing with a Khan Noonien Singh or a benevolent group of survivalists. 

Sebastian did recall mentioning that these aliens could be dangerous. This could have been possible at the beginning of this mission, but maybe these people are more advanced in genetic engineering than the crew of the Zephyr can currently detect, and are, in fact, advanced enough to filter out the aggressive tendencies that arise from arguments.

Sebastian double-checked the Musical Translation program that he and A’kilees had developed and installed on his Tricorder.

“Translation Program ready and standing by, Captain.” Announced Sebastian. “Captain, I still stand by my recommendation about altering your appearance. Captain, a dominant male gorilla, known as a silverback, is the ultimate leader of his troop. At around 12 to 14 years old, males develop the prominent gray hair on their backs that gives them their name. They are responsible for making all family decisions, protecting the group, and maintaining social harmony. If you appear bigger than us, these aliens would naturally assume you are the powerful figurehead.” Stated Sebastian. Sebastian realized he had put his foot in his mouth once again, comparing the Captain to a Silverback Gorilla. Sebastian's face turned red with humiliation.

Dam Sebastian, why does the Captain intimidate you so much? They say he is reasonable and approachable. 

Sebastian didn’t know why he found the Captain intimidating, why the Captain made him nervous. Everyone told him when he came on board that Captain Ameen was an amazing Commanding Officer, that he was fair and listened to his officers.

“OH, umh ...Captain, I…I  didn’t mean to imply that you were gray, or a Gorilla; I just meant that these Aliens would probably view the largest one of us as the Dominant one and wouldn’t want to challenge you. Thus they would react peacefully and cautiously. That is what we want to achieve with them, right? Peaceful First Contact?”  stated Sebastian, his voice filled with nervousness.



== Tag All. ==

[Evie O’Fee]

Now that the Captain was in the room with them Gath was going to have to be on his best behavior, on the upside they still had clothing on. Everything was about to be put in motion making Evie a little nervous, not as nervous as the young Science officer. "Isn't he cute when nervous? I swear he has the cutest little dimples when he talks nervously." Talking to Gath while looking as Cortez, she had a silly little smile. Evie started to think of ways how to calm him down a little, some were appropriate. 

Going close to Cortez Evie had a soft tone while talking to him. "Sebastian." She waited until he gave her full attention. "I have to make the rules here the same as Sickbay, we need to stay calm. In less then fifteen minutes this man is going to wake up, and imagine what that is going to be like. If he feels the nervous energy it can get worse, if we disguise ourselves the result is the same. If you have trouble with this again, just like last time we can get through it.

Evie was keeping a close eye on the readings for reanimation, if there was a spike one way or another they could handle it. Being in this state for so long its easy to conclude there would be complications, in the simplest of terms freezer burn. "When they come out of this I am willing to bet their vision is going to be so blurry, they wont know who or what is talking to them. Their thinking rate is going to be extremely slow, using smaller words or better yet no words are best for a little while." After being in a deep sleep people are groggy to say the least, completely out of it is closer to the truth. 

==Tag and GM input.==

[Gath]

The instant someone else stepped into the program,  Gath flipped the switch in his head that made him all business again. He gave a single nod to the CO, "Sir..."

The pod soon materialized and the countdown began. Gath stepped closer to the pod. He had the auto-injector in his hand, but also had an isolinear tag as well. When he injected their guest, he would also attach the tiny tag to the back of his clothing. He would place in at the neck, which was also where he would need to find a place to inject them. He had studied the scans and they had quite a bit of muscle at the neck, so it should be safe. He would be careful not to place the tag too close to the injection point, as they might detect it if he did.

The young Science Officer was still going on endlessly, but the kid was fresh out of school, so it was expected. There was a song he had heard while at the Academy that was old and Gath had liked very much. It had words that reminded him of the Science Officer.

It's not time to make a change
Just relax, take it easy
You're still young, that's your fault
There's so much you have to know

Those were the words that came to him now. He was a decade older than Cortez, but he remembered being fresh out of school and on his first assignment. In Gath's case, it was trial by fire. Not everyone survived that mission. He learned hard lessons from that. If Gath could help it, Cortez would not have the same kind of initial introduction to life in Star Fleet.

== Tag to all ==
== The lines are from the song Father And Son by Cat Stevens ==

[A’kilees]

<<< Science Labs <<<

A’kilees entered the holodeck following Commander Ameen, Lieutenant Ra’an and Sebastian, both of them quickly briefing the two officers on their recent language breakthrough in the science labs. Unfortunately, the saurian personally felt he could have had some more answers to rather obvious burning questions the crew members might have but they had left so quickly after their successful translation that he nor Sebastian had been able to extrapolate any relevant information but chose not to vocalize his disappointments.

It had been a while since A’kilees had been in the holodeck, he would come occasionally on his down time to interactively render his ship designs and work on his own holographic programs but hadn’t had time to fully spend time in any of them with his full schedule nor with the current situation. The pod of the chosen individual was already waiting upon a rendered platform when they arrived. Lieutenant Gath and Doctor O’Fee were already present and getting prepared for the opening of the cryopod. A large illuminated amber panel emanated from the pod revealing a message.

[WARNING: UMBILICAL SEVERED. AUTOMATIC REVIVAL PROTOCOL INITIATED.]
[T-MINUS 15 MINUTES TO DE-STASIS.]

It seemed that the program was integrated and working well with Zephyr's universal translator system, however that wasn’t a lot of time and A’kilees knew that a lot could happen in that duration. He turned towards his commanding officer.

“Pardon me Commander, I hope that the explanation was enough. If you’ll please excuse me.” said A’kilees apologetically and made his way quickly over to the cryopod next to Gath and Evie with his tricorder and began scanning the pod to make sure that there weren’t any anomalous readings or errors that would cause any problems with the revival process.

== Tag All ==

== GM Input: Are there any issues detected with the tricorder concerning the cryopod revival process? ==

[Sebastian Cortez]

Sebastian was growing increasingly frustrated by the resistance he encountered from his teammates. Nearly every idea or recommendation he presented was met with opposition. At the Academy, he had been taught that every viewpoint had value and that a good officer listened carefully to the expertise of their subordinates before making an informed decision. What his teammates failed to realize, however, was that they were either mistaken or simply misunderstood the point he was trying to make. As the team's science officer, it was Sebastian's responsibility to present every viable option based on the available evidence and his professional expertise. Whether others agreed with his conclusions or not, he had a duty to ensure that all options were presented. Whether or not they were acted upon was another story.

Hmmm…maybe I’m not clear enough with my information?

He was taken aback when the Doctor said, "Sebastian. I have to make the rules here the same as Sickbay; we need to stay calm. In less than fifteen minutes this man is going to wake up, and imagine what that is going to be like. If he feels the nervous energy, it can get worse; if we disguise ourselves, the result is the same. If you have trouble with this again, just like last time, we can get through it.” Said the Doctor.

Sebastian had no idea what she meant when she said, “If you have trouble with this again?” She then added, "When they come out of this, I am willing to bet their vision is going to be so blurry, they won't know who or what is talking to them. Their thinking rate is going to be extremely slow, using smaller words, or better yet, no words are best for a little while."

Sebastian smiled, “Doctor, I can assure you that I’m calm, cool and collected.”

Sebastian had no issue with the situation itself; he was simply carrying out his duties to the best of his abilities and in accordance with his training. At times, however, he felt that some of the senior officers were quick to dismiss his observations because he was a junior officer fresh out of the Academy. While he understood that experience carried its own value, he also recognized that his recent education had provided him with the latest theories, research, and technological developments. Many of his colleagues had only graduated a few years before him, but in fields such as science and technology, even a short span of time could bring significant advances. Sebastian respected their experience and hoped they would place equal value on the fresh perspective and current knowledge he brought to the team.


“Doctor, with all due respect, I believe your assessment is incomplete. When an apex predator emerges from hibernation, its immediate concerns are survival—safety, water, and food. It is often disoriented, defensive, and operating primarily on instinct while it assesses its surroundings. These aliens are clearly intelligent and technologically advanced, so they cannot be compared directly to terrestrial animals. However, if we accept your conclusion that they are apex predators, then we must also consider how apex predators behave under stress. Should they revert to those instincts, the most logical strategy is to present a difficult target. A black bear will think twice before challenging a grizzly. If their leader awakens and reacts aggressively, the Captain would be the most likely focus of their attention. My concern is simply to ensure the Captain's safety,” Stated Sebastian, his tone warm and friendly. “ Besides, I never said that we should disguise ourselves. What I was suggesting was that we alter the optics in the Hoolodeck so that the Captain appears bigger and more physically intimidating. If, after we learn the aliens' true nature, we can adjust the optics back to normal, chances are the aliens would attribute the shift in the Captain’s appearance to their extended hibernation. Still, ultimately the choice would be up to the Captain.” Offered Sebastian.



== Tag O’Fee.==

[Amila Ra'an]

“... Besides, I never said that we should disguise ourselves. What I was suggesting was that we alter the optics in the Hoolodeck so that the Captain appears bigger and more physically intimidating. If, after we learn the aliens' true nature, we can adjust the optics back to normal, chances are the aliens would attribute the shift in the Captain’s appearance to their extended hibernation. Still, ultimately the choice would be up to the Captain,” offered Sebastian.

"Midshipman," Amila stated firmly, though she kept her voice down as she stepped closer to him. "The decision has been made," she emphasized. "The time is now to get to work following the orders that best execute this decision."

"We don't want to start with deception at first contact because it establishes a bad precedent for trust," she added. "It will be hard to earn that, if our first meeting is born of deceit." She placed a reassuring hand on the young officer's shoulder. "This is why the work that you and A'kilees were able to do on the language is key here. Our best chance at success is communication and the U-T will lag for a while. We need you both on your toes."

"Got it?"

==Tag Sebastian==

[A’kilees]

A’kilees peered up slightly from his tricorder scan of the pod towards the incident occurring nearby. Sebastian was still offering suggestions to the commander and the lieutenants about how to conduct the first contact with the aliens. He was still adamant that there should be some display of intimidation to ward off any of the alien’s ideas of possible initial aggression. Amila soon made her way over to him and placed a hand on his shoulder and began talking to him softly. A’kilees couldn’t hear what was being said but he guessed Sebastian was probably being admonished by the Orion officer for his insistence against current standing orders.

As stated in the Prime Directive, this was to be a formal diplomatic interaction as set by Starfleet’s general orders and the wishes of Commander Ameen himself. If the mission had been ordered to be completely free from any interaction and influence, then Starfleet might have given permission to come up with some sort of ruse or cover-up and would have allowed the Zephyr to continue to the destination point the aliens were heading towards. That not being the case, a full open communication was going to happen here on the holodeck in just over ten minutes by A’kilees’ count. If there was any hostile aggression, Gath and the security team were closely standing by to protect the crew and the ship if needed.

Not wanting to be caught prying into the affairs of another department, A’kilees quietly returned his attention back to the cryopod as the reanimation timer was slowly counting down. The saurian could feel his anxiety building up within him again as the minutes passed by. Attempting to distract himself, he started humming under his breath to calm his nerves while hoping that nobody would hear him doing so.

== Tag ==

[Gath]

Gath did finally speak up, in hopes of putting the concerns Cortez expressed to rest, "I have several layers of protection in place, including containment fields and emergency transport commands set up with the computer. Be careful of the area indicated on the ground, I have increased the gravity in that area, for the benefit of our guest. It won't harm us, but it might cause you to be awkward and off balance."

He then turned to the doctor and asked again, "I still don't understand what was wrong with their injector that we needed to place their medication in our version of an injection device, which is not even a hypospray. Our guest might think I'm trying to harm it."

== Tag O'Fee and all ==

[Sebastian Cortez]

Sebastian blinked in surprise. For a moment, he simply stared at Lieutenant Amila, trying to understand where the disconnect had occurred.

"Yes, ma'am. I understand the decision has been made," he said carefully. "I wasn't trying to challenge it," Sebastian stated.

He shifted uncomfortably, suddenly feeling as though everyone in the room had heard something entirely different from what he had actually said.

"What I was proposing wasn't a replacement for the plan, and it wasn't even something I was suggesting we implement immediately. I was only presenting an alternative we could keep in reserve if circumstances changed after first contact." Stated Sebastian, his voice filled with nervous confusion.

Sebastian glanced briefly around the room before returning his attention to Amila.

"It just seems like every time I bring up a contingency, people assume I'm arguing against the current course of action. I'm not. The Academy spent four years teaching us to examine multiple outcomes and prepare for them. I thought that's what I was doing," replied Sebastian.

His expression softened slightly.

"I agree that communication should be our priority. The language work is important, and I'll continue focusing on it. I just thought it would be useful to have additional options available if things don't unfold the way we expect." Announce Cortez.

He straightened his posture.

"But the decision is the Captain's, and the mission comes first. I'll concentrate on the translation work." Stated Sebastian, his tone respectful.

A brief pause followed.

"I understand, ma'am." Added Sebastian.

Sebastian glanced at Chief Gath; he liked the Chief; he clearly understood the situation. Sebastian gazed around the area and noted the areas of increased gravity zones. "Noted, Chief." Replied Cortez.



== Tag All. ==

[Evie O’Fee]

Evie thought back at the earlier part of the conversation, the part about Silverback Gorillas. Adapting the meaning to their situation there would only be one man, any man would be considered a potential challenger that translates to being a threat. As women they would be there for his pleasure, following every order no matter what it involved. Not the worst way a person could live, he would be their protector. 

Evie was about to say something but Ra'an beat her to it, plus it was more appropriate to come from her. Ra'an being the Chief, joining in would also serve no purpose. If she did it could be seen as ganging up on him, it would result in him contracting feeling insignificant. Even with valid points there was something else taught about exploring alternatives, that was time and place. When these people wake Evie was going to be up close and personal, her personal safety was closer on her mind.

"Mr. Gath that is their delivery system, ours would never work on them. It would be like pouring the medicine on people, it wouldn't penetrate their skin." Evie was going to leave it there, she wanted to keep her mind on task.

==Tag==

[Gath]

Gath considered the answer, that the delivery system was actually of their own design, "Well, in that case, I retract my statement. So long as it is something that would be expected, it should be fine."

Part of his mind was still thinking about their conversation before the rest of the team had arrived. The thought of a drink after all this was over seemed quite appealing, but he needed to not let it distract him from the mission.

[Sebastian Cortez]

Sebastian listened to the debate about the delivery system. The premise was easy to get the drug into the aliens, but Federation Technology is incompatible with the aliens' technology.

Sebastian had to admit he was slightly disappointed in the mission so far; he would have liked to have more time with the aliens’ technology. More time to really learn about these people, but they only had eight hours.

What a shame. I wish we had more time. 

“Can’t we release the drug in a gas form? We could release it a few minutes before they emerge from their pods; it would be contained on their side of the forcefield, no?” Suggest Sebastian.



== Tag All. ==

[Amila Ra'an]

“Can’t we release the drug in a gas form? We could release it a few minutes before they emerge from their pods; it would be contained on their side of the forcefield, no?” Suggested Sebastian.

"Midshipman Cortez," Amila's voice was calm, though slightly more direct now. "The compound being used to wake up someone up out of a cryo-stasis is likely too complex to be administered in that form. Medical has been devoted to analyzing these issues, while we've been focusing on our project," she reminded him.

"We are about to make first contact, it is a privilege to be here. Let's focus on our jobs, and follow Commander Ameen's lead," she stated.

The young science officer's work was exemplary, and he was very bright, and would likely enjoy training in other divisions of science, she noted to herself. His willingness to speak up would likely make him a good department head someday, but for now they would need to work on timing, reading situations better.

"Cortez and A'Kilees, you have everything ready?" she asked, looking to quickly redirect the attention to the positive work they had done. With the algorithm that the two of them had managed to create using their combined background of music, math, and the engineer's unique language, they should be able to speed up the Universal Translator's progress as it attempted to learn the alien's language. They may even be able to identify particular gaps, and offer suggestions on how to accelerate the process, especially if the Commander was able to successfully convince the alien to want to communicate.


==Tag Cortex, A'Kilees, and any==

==OOC - I've been pulling this UT learning theory from DS9 "Sanctuary" if you were wondering ==

[A’kilees]

The saurian was calmly humming to himself while scanning the pod. A’kilees hadn’t detected anything at this point wrong with the cryopod and it's reanimation process which seemed to be a blessing after everything that had happened throughout the day. He peered through the view port at the large alien figure inside who was coming out of it's induced slumber soon. He wondered what it’s first reaction would be after being in that pod for so long. No ship, most of the crew gone, far from your destination thousands of years later. It was going to be a lot for these aliens to process but hopefully they would come to understand that there were others in the wide universe willing to help them.

"Cortez and A'Kilees, you have everything ready?" Amila asked. She seemed to have concluded her cautioning of his fellow midshipman and hoping to switch the focus of the conversation back towards the task of first contact. A’kilees snapped out of his contemplation about the aliens, stood up from the pod while fixing his uniform and looked over towards her.

“Just a second Lieutenant, let me double check everything is functioning properly.” and he made his way over to the arch to access the control panel. With a few taps of his clawed hands he had fully accessed the Zephyr’s Universal Translator program from the control console. From what he could tell, the program was functioning well with the language algorithm and it was still processing the alien language based on the information retrieved from the black box since before they had arrived. A’kilees however wanted to be fully sure that everything was fine and began feeding a number of sentences into the program to test its computing capabilities for it to translate and retranslate it properly back so that no miscommunication would be possible.

== Tag All ==

== GM Input: Is the Universal Translator working properly with the alien language algorithm? Please and thank you! ==

[Sebastian Cortez]

“Aye, Lieutenant, I’m ready.” Replied Sebastian, but just then something caught Sebastian’s eye: the Decipher he had A'Kilees had created seemed to have picked up something of the aliens' language. Sebastian checked and double-checked the readings.

[ Letter Musical Note Frequency (Hz)
F F4 349.23 Hz
R G4 392.00 Hz
I A4 440.00 Hz
E B♭4 466.16 Hz
N C5 523.25 Hz
D D5 587.33 Hz

Written on a musical staff:

Treble Clef

D5 ●
C5 ●
B♭4 ●
A4 ●
G4 ●
F4 ●

F R I E N D

Played in sequence, the melody would be:

F4 → G4 → A4 → B♭4 → C5 → D5

This creates an ascending six-note phrase that sounds somewhat like the beginning of a major-scale melody. On a piano, it would be a bright, uplifting progression.

The frequencies form this pattern:

349.23 Hz → 392.00 Hz → 440.00 Hz → 466.16 Hz → 523.25 Hz → 587.33 Hz

which steadily rises in pitch, giving the word "FRIEND" a naturally positive musical contour.]

“I think I found something,” announced Sebastian. Not directing his comment to anyone in particular. Sebastian's excitement was building; maybe just maybe the decipher algorithm, if given more time, might be able to figure out more words, more phrases. This could be a huge advancement, even if they didn't figure out any other words, if the crew of the Zephyr could just keep playing the one word he had discovered,

== Tag All,==

== GM Input, Did Sebastian and A'Kilees algorithm actually pick up an alien word, or was it some computer glitch?==

[Morad Ameen]

== GM-Broken Arrow ==

As the final minutes of the countdown ticked away, the Holodeck team scrambled to finalize their preparations.

For Midshipman A'kilees, the tricorder scans brought both relief and a spike of adrenaline. The revival process was functioning flawlessly. The pod was successfully thawing the occupant without causing cellular damage. However, the tricorder also registered a massive, sudden surge in the alien's biological functions. Its dual-redundant cardiovascular system was kicking into overdrive, and its core temperature was rapidly rising to match the ambient environment. The UT algorithm was also holding steady, fully integrated with the Holodeck's acoustic emitters.

For Midshipman Cortez, the main computer offered a fascinating correction. Because the aliens operated on a Base-12 mathematical matrix rather than a 26-letter Terran alphabet, the frequencies did not literally spell the English word "F-R-I-E-N-D." However, Pedro's underlying musical theory was absolutely brilliant. The computer confirmed that the ascending, major-scale progression (349.23 Hz to 587.33 Hz) perfectly matched the alien mathematical equation for "Harmonic Synchronization" or "Non-Threatening Variable." If they played that melody, it would broadcast a peaceful, cooperative intent.

Before anyone could celebrate the linguistic victory, the amber fractals on the pod's display flashed violently.

[T-MINUS 00:00. STASIS TERMINATED.]

With a deafening hiss of depressurization, the heavy, frosted duranium lid of the pod unsealed and slid vertically upward. A massive cloud of dense, freezing vapor rolled out over the holographic grass, dropping the temperature in the center of the clearing by several degrees.

From within the mist, a massive figure stirred.

Standing nearly seven feet tall, the Apex Protector stepped out of the pod. The increased gravity field Gath had programmed seemed to have no effect on it; its dense, metallic-laced skeletal structure supported its weight effortlessly. Its deep-set eyes, protected by the translucent secondary eyelids, darted around the clearing, instantly taking in the horizon, the lack of cover, and the four Starfleet officers standing before it.

The alien was incredibly imposing, clad in the seamless, dark synthetic uniform the scanners had previously detected. For a brief, agonizing moment, the Apex Protector swayed slightly—a momentary bout of disorientation from thousands years of cryogenic sleep.

It was the only window they were going to get before its combat instincts took over. It needed the coagulant now, or its rapidly beating heart would begin to hemorrhage.

== Tag Holodeck Team ==

[Morad Ameen]

Ameen watched as the heavy lid of the stasis pod slid open, the biting chill of the escaping vapor washing over his uniform.

When the Apex Protector finally stepped out into the simulated sunlight, the sheer, imposing scale of the genetically engineered soldier validated every single one of Lieutenant Gath's tactical concerns. It was a living weapon, and as it swayed unsteadily on its feet, Ameen knew they only had seconds before the disorientation wore off and the adrenaline set in.

"Midshipman Cortez," Ameen ordered, his voice cracking like a whip across the quiet clearing. "Broadcast that ascending frequency through the Holodeck emitters now. Maximum volume."

Ameen stepped forward, deliberately moving into the alien's direct line of sight. He kept his posture tall but non-aggressive, holding both of his hands up with his palms open and empty to clearly demonstrate he was unarmed.

"Lieutenant Gath," Ameen said, never taking his eyes off the towering alien. "You have your window. Administer the doctor's injection. Now."

As the UT prepared to translate his words into the complex, mathematical chords of their language, Ameen spoke clearly and calmly to the waking giant.

"I am Commander Morad Ameen of the United Federation of Planets. We mean you no harm. Your vessel was destroyed, but we have saved your people."

== Tag All ==

[Gath]

Gath stepped forward and with one hand bracing him against the creature and placing the isolinear tag on the fabric on the back of its shoulder near the collar, while using the auto-injector with his right hand. Once the device had delivered the medication, Gath took two steps back and held the empty injector out in his hand, to show the familiar object to the creature as a wordless explanation.

Gath was glad to be able to step back from the increased gravity zone. It wasn't painful, only uncomfortable, like working out in the gym. Doing the task while feeling like he was carrying half of his weight on his back wasn't the worst workout he had ever managed, but it was not recommended for someone who was unprepared for it. He paid close attention to how the creature reacted to the injection as well as how it moved its eyes and body movements. It would tell him a great deal about how they moved. He wasn't sure if the creature would reach for the injector or not, but once he was sure it had seen what was in his hand, he would take a couple more steps back to observe and manage the safety controls, if they were needed.

== Tag all ==

[A’kilees]

All words and simple sentences A’kilees had inputted came back through the Universal Translator without any issues on the control console. The algorithm was functioning completely as designed and continuously processing and translating the information taken from before. There would be no issues with communicating with the aliens. The saurian breathed a sigh of relief.

The deafening hiss of the cryopod depressurizing made A’kilees flinch back and stare towards the display coming from the pod. The large amber display emanating from the pod was now flashing with a new message for everyone to see:

[T-MINUS 00:00. STATSIS TERMINATED]

All crew members present in the holodeck watched as the lid slid open and a large hand grasped on the outer frame. Soon the large alien slowly pushed itself up and made it’s way out of the pod, covered in cryo vapours. It stood for a moment imposingly then wobbled slightly, attempting to get it’s balance and adjust to the foreign surroundings. There was a tense silence for a moment, everyone observing the alien now standing in the holodeck. A’kilees stood at the arch, completely motionless, his dark eyes trained firmly on the strange being. He was unsure of what to do at that very moment. His base instincts warned him of potential danger and run for the door as the alien loomed above everyone there, but his curiosity and committed sense of duty compelled him to remain.

"Midshipman Cortez," Ameen broke the stillness with a voice of authority. "Broadcast that ascending frequency through the Holodeck emitters now. Maximum volume." and he brought his hands up as a calming gesture as Gath moved forward to administer the injection. "I am Commander Morad Ameen of the United Federation of Planets. We mean you no harm. Your vessel was destroyed, but we have saved your people."

All A’kilees could do in that moment was wait…

== Tag all ==

[Evie O’Fee]

The last thing in the world Evie needed was a new reason to feel short, this was the shortest she ever felt. Evie was getting the scan results as they came, it was impressive about how they came to adapt. The extra effort they did seemed to be made moot, he was adapting quickly it stood to reason the rest would too.

Evie kept a close eye on the scan results standing at a small distance from the man, the Captain should be the only one to speak at this time other than their guest. Seeing the scans of how they came back to life, sort of speaking. It could aide them in replicating the results for the purpose of reverse engineering, it would take time to fully explore. As she thought the process was like waking up extremely groggy, he was going to be like this for at least five minutes give or take. 

==GM input on her scan results==

[Amila Ra'an]

Amila stood close enough to Pedro and A'kilees to keep an eye on their work, and was situated so that she could at least try to get between them and their alien guest if he should try to come their way. She knew that the higher gravity section of the holodeck had been made for their comfort, but Amila thought it more likely that if they were to come into their own gravity they could maneuver easily - like Vulcans, or maybe even more accurately according to Gath's assessment of their physical prowess, the Gorn - taking no time at all to adjust, and using the lower gravity to their benefit. She was aware she couldn't do much, but she felt protective of the younger officers, and if she could buy time for them to continue trying to communicate friendly intentions, or for Gath to intervene, then she would do what she could.

Evie had reminded them all to stay calm. She knew that she was talking primarily to the junior officers, but Amila repeated the sentiments back to herself as well, fighting to keep her heart rate steady and her breathing controlled. While her eyes were watching everything, she knew this person likely had senses to pick up up on every tick, every anxious move that any of them made, and it was important for them to to exude as much calmness as they could muster as Pedro played what they hoped was a signal that they meant to be friends. The chord that was playing on repeat helped her stay calm and relaxed, and she hoped it worked for the others as well. 

Amila recognized the notes, she had once enjoyed performing and was particularly fond of musicals. The chord progression was often used in songs from many Earth musicals, the beginning of a promising, optimistic scene, one that was meant to give the audience hope, but it was incomplete. As she hummed along in her head, her mind drifted only briefly to a few examples where composers had used the progression only to turn it into something dark and tragic later. Washing those thoughts away quickly, she went back to the happier songs, singing them to herself in her mind, trying to somehow send that positive energy to Ameen, and to who she hoped would be their new friend.

[Morad Ameen]

== GM-Broken Arrow ==

The moment Gath's auto-injector hissed against the thick musculature of the Apex Protector's neck, Evie's tricorder lit up with a flurry of data. The alien's redundant circulatory system seized the chemical cocktail and metabolized it with terrifying efficiency. The rising threat of internal hemorrhaging was neutralized almost instantly. However, Evie's hope for a groggy, disoriented patient vanished just as quickly. The scans showed the alien's neuro-pathways firing at an incredible speed, burning through the cryogenic fog in mere seconds. It was adapting, processing, and waking up entirely.

The massive alien did not flinch from the needle. As Gath took his measured steps backward and displayed the empty injector, the Protector's deep-set eyes locked onto the device. It stood perfectly still, mathematically processing the sequence of events: an injection, a sudden stabilization of its own failing biology, and a tactical retreat by the armed individual who administered it. In the end, it classified Gath's action not as an assault, but as a necessary biological intervention.

The ascending six-note harmonic (F4 to D5) echoed clearly through the simulated park. As the bright, major-scale progression hit the alien's flush auditory slits, they flared slightly. The translucent secondary eyelids fully retracted. It recognized the mathematical frequency for "Non-Threatening Variable / Harmonic Synchronization."

The Apex Protector straightened to its full, imposing seven-foot height, the cold mist swirling around its heavy boots. It looked past Gath and locked its gaze entirely on Commander Ameen.

When it spoke, the sound that originated from its throat was a resonant, vibrating series of deep chest rumbles, low-frequency hums, and sharp clicking sub-harmonics. A fraction of a second later, the Zephyr's Universal Translator caught the audio, filtered it through A'kilees and Cortez's algorithm, and broadcasted the translation in Starfleet Standard.

The translated voice was flat, devoid of emotional inflection, yet carried an impossibly heavy, authoritative weight.

"Biological stabilization acknowledged. Non-threatening harmonic recognized." The giant paused, its calculating gaze sweeping over the unarmed humans, the Saurian, the Orion, and the Klingon. "You identify as Commander Ameen. You state my vessel is destroyed. Provide immediate telemetry on the remaining Apex Protectors. Provide the status of the Genetic Seed."

[Morad Ameen]

Ameen did not blink or take a step backward as the giant's translated voice boomed through the clearing. The fact that the alien was speaking—and demanding telemetry rather than immediately initiating combat, was a massive diplomatic victory. Midshipman Cortez's musical cipher and Lieutenant Gath's disciplined restraint had just kept the situation from turning into a bloodbath.

"Your biology was failing due to the abrupt severing of your stasis umbilical. My Chief of Security and Chief Medical Officer provided the necessary treatment to save your life," Ameen stated calmly, offering a brief, respectful gesture toward Gath and Evie to formally establish their roles.

He kept his hands visible, maintaining steady, unwavering eye contact with the towering alien.

"As for your telemetry: eleven of your fellow Apex Protectors are currently secure and stable in cryogenic stasis aboard my ship. We extracted all twelve of your pods from the wreckage of your vessel right before the hull suffered a catastrophic structural collapse. Your ship experienced a massive internal explosion and was breaking apart in deep space. It could not be salvaged."

Ameen took a slow breath, knowing that the next piece of information was the most volatile variable in the room. He braced himself for a reaction.

"We recovered a crystalline data module from your ship's bridge—a flight recorder—which provided us with your harmonic language and your sanctuary destination. But we did not find a 'Genetic Seed' among the wreckage. If it was not stored within your pods, or heavily shielded from our sensors, it was lost in the destruction of your vessel."

Ameen watched the giant's eyes, his posture projecting absolute honesty and calm authority.

"My crew and I are here to assist you. What is your designation?"