<snip>

: The image of a man that might surprise Toryn came on the screen. Were it not for the admiral's uniform it might look like an error. Admiral Lewis was young - appearing only in his 30's, or at least that was his appearance. A boyish set of rosy cheeks on a pale complexion and curly blond hair completed the picture of a youth. His voice did nothing to dispel that image. At least it had a sense of authority in it.

Toryn arched a brow at the appearance of the "young Admiral," he had never encountered this man before, and quite frankly was a little unprepared for it. He hoped that his face didn't advertise his surprise, as he come to terms with the image and settled in to listen.

: =^= Captain Jorel. My congratulations on your detective work and scaring off the Orions from Janus VI. We're sending a team there to assess damage there and to help discern what has been going on there. However, that is not your agenda. The probe that was sent out has come to an end of its line. I'm transmitting the sensor packet now to you. Over a century ago back in the Romulan Cold War there were a series of outposts that guarded the Neutral Zone. The probe stopped at Outpost 4, destroyed by the Romulans in a surprise attack. The Enterprise later engaged and halted the Romulan ship. Outpost 4 was reported destroyed. Yet this is what the probe picked up. The image of the 'outpost' came on the screen showing a silver shimmering globe. =^= The place where the Outpost was is at least in theory within this globe of phased tachyonic interference. The probe's sensors cannot penetrate it. =^=

=^= Within the sphere, Admiral? How large is the space encompassed by what I'm seeing in this image, sir? =^= Toryn ran his finger along his earring's chain, as was no doubt becoming his trademark indicator of being deep in thought. =^= Is there anything you can tell me about the sphere? Is it emitting any sort of energy signature? Do we know if it's of Romulan origin, or Orion perhaps? =^=

: =^= Captain, I know you have a crew of graduated Cadets on their practicum. I know otherwise you have a seasoned crew behind them. You've been in the thick of this since this mystery came about which is why I am wanting to send the Apollo to find out what is going on in there and what the Orions are doing - and if it involves a weapon of mass destruction and if the opportunity arises: stop them. I am sending along the Thames to rendezvous with you at Outpost 4. Captain Gallagher will assist you. As you are most experienced in this you will be in charge. The Thames is Discovery Class as well. I know we have not yet talked about this, though the Federation Council feels that time is of the essence given the theft of paralithium. While we are not in the Fleet in the habit of sending Academy ships to a front line mission, we feel an exception is in order. Unless you have objections, Captain, as you are closer to the situation. =^=
:
: Lewis

The Captain listened intently, considering the implications of his orders on his slightly seasoned crew. =^= You can count on us, sir. I have every confidence in my crew. Captain Gallagher has already arrived at the Outpost, has he been fully briefed as well? =^=

Leaning back in his seat, he let his brow show his concern. He sat quiet for a moment, then continued, =^= I have no objections, sir. We'll set course for OP4 right away. Incidentally, sir, our Vulcan guest, Serel has given us the name "Prince" does this mean anything to you in context to our mission? =^=

Toryn CO