To be clear, this isn’t something I ever desired, but it was handed to me regardless. After Captain Rouiancet received a covert message from the UDP requesting an audience with her, Avander, and Herrick, evidently I was the one suggested for the role during their absence. I personally would have suggested Wes, but I discovered he was going with them. I suspect during the discussions, someone recommended me.
I didn’t like the idea of them all going, but evidently the message was very specific, which only made me feel more concerned about it. But they went, and now, we’ve lost contact. I’ve ordered the ship brought to the last known coordinates, and my hope is that it is only interference from a nearby anomaly that has prevented communications with our officers…our friends.
Because the first and second officers are also gone, I’ve tapped Commander Toxin Arlill to act as FO for now, with Commander Lhandon Nilsen as Second. Nilsen, along with Lieutenant Kimonzi Lahl and Lieutenant Richards are taking a closer look at a strange vessel that was left abandoned nearby. It’s not nearly as big as the Butler, but larger than a roundabout, and not of Starfleet or UDP origin.
Upon our arrival, a strange burst of energy struck the ship. As far as we can tell, there was no damage and no one was hurt, but just to be certain, I’ve tasked Commander Arlill, Lieutenant S'vyak, and Lieutenant Caras with ensuring there was no damage that we just can’t see and to trace where that energy came from.
Also since our arrival, we’ve had several officers have reported to Sickbay because they feel ‘strange’. We’re not certain if the anomaly is causing this as well, but I’ve asked Commander Moydol, Lieutenant, and Lieutenant Nis to see if they can figure out why our officers feel this way. I hope it is a coincidence not related to our arrival here, but I’ve learned that very few things are truly coincidences.
I remain on the bridge along with 1st Lieutenant Maxwell and Lieutenant Forsyth. While I know Forsyth and Maxwell peripherally, I don’t know them well. We will examine the anomaly in detail and hope to find some answers.
I feel like everything is crashing down. The Captain is gone. Herrick is gone. Avander is gone.
…
Wes is gone.
…
I’m trying not to panic, but I’m afraid not only will I fail in my duty in this chair, but we’ll lose them all forever. I’m not qualified for this. I can only pray the Prophets will protect them and guide us and somehow we will find each other.
