Shadows Over Krios

Posted on 2025, Wed Sep 17th, @ 11:37pm by Captain Selina Veyra & Commander T’Raal & Commander Rivan Torak & Lieutenant Commander Rina Solari & Lieutenant Commander Kael Rhodan & Civilian Queen Kaitaama XII

726 words; about a 4 minute read

Mission: Episode 1: Shadows Over Krios - USS Vigilance
Location: Orbit and surface of Krios Prime
Timeline: Beginning of Princess Kaitaama Lothar 50th’s diplomatic tour and Federation security assignment
Tags: Krios Prime, USS Vigilance, Princess Kaitaama, Starfleet, Diplomacy, Political Intrigue, Federation, Shuttle Operations, Planetary Security, 2402

The view of Krios Prime from orbit was nothing short of breathtaking. Towering crystal spires caught the sunlight, sprawling forests stretched to the horizon, and oceans shimmered in deep, impossible blues. Yet the beauty belied the tension brewing beneath. Political factions in the royal court were restless, some eager to embrace modernization and Federation alliances, others resistant, clinging fiercely to tradition.

On the bridge of the USS Vigilance, Captain Selina Veyra stood tall, hands clasped behind her back, eyes scanning the glowing displays. “Status report,” she commanded, voice calm but commanding.

“Shuttles are prepped for planetary descent, Captain,” Commander T’Raal responded, fingers dancing over his console. “Landing zones coordinated with the palace authorities. No anomalies in approach vectors so far.”

“Minor comm interference detected near the central palace,” Lieutenant Commander Kael Rhodan interjected, eyes narrowing at the sensor readouts. “Could be nothing… but worth noting.”

Selina’s gaze swept over the crew. “Keep monitoring. I don’t want surprises.” She paused, her expression softening as the viewport reflected the approaching royal shuttle. “And ensure all Federation personnel are aware — this isn’t just protocol. Krios Prime is watching, and the galaxy is watching us.”

In the royal shuttle, Princess Kaitaama Lothar 50th reviewed the mission briefing again, tapping the console with deliberate care. Her markings, elegant and Trill-like, shimmered faintly under the cabin lights. “They underestimate how closely I’ll observe them,” she murmured to her aide, voice calm but sharp. “Every decision they make will reflect on my court, my people, and the Federation.”

“Princess,” the aide replied carefully, “the security detail aboard the Vigilance is extensive. Starfleet will not allow harm to come to you.”

Kaitaama’s eyes flicked to the viewport. “I understand, but protection is not the same as understanding. I want to see how they operate, how they respond under pressure. That will tell me more about their competence than any report.”

Back on the Vigilance, Commander Rivan Torak leaned toward the tactical console. “Sensors are picking up increased civilian activity near the primary landing zone. Likely curious onlookers, but could also be saboteurs attempting to blend in.”

“Notify planetary authorities and prepare crowd control teams,” Captain Veyra replied. Her voice was sharp now, full of the authority that had earned her command. “I want eyes on every entrance. No one moves without clearance.”

From the observation deck, Lieutenant Commander Rina Solari added, “I recommend keeping the shuttle escort tight. Any deviation from the approved route could indicate interference.”

The bridge was tense but controlled, the quiet hum of machinery punctuated by the soft voices of officers reporting status and confirming orders. Every screen, every readout, every sensor pinged with the potential for discovery — every second mattered.

In the royal shuttle, Kaitaama’s fingers brushed a console, sending data across secure channels. “I want full access to the city’s cultural centers and government buildings. I’ll meet the factions directly — diplomacy requires presence, not just protocol.”

T’Raal raised an eyebrow, his voice calm but firm. “Princess, that could be… unwise. Federation security will need to monitor all interactions.”

Kaitaama turned, her gaze steady, eyes catching the light like polished sapphire. “I do not need protection from myself, Commander. I need partners who understand the balance between risk and opportunity.”

The Vigilance adjusted its orbit slightly, sensors scanning and recalibrating as the first shuttles detached from the hangar bay. Each craft reflected the careful choreography of diplomacy, security, and strategy. Below, the city’s citizens had begun to gather in curious clusters, watching as the Federation presence materialized in orbit.

“All systems are nominal,” Kael Rhodan reported quietly. “Planetary surface appears stable for initial landing operations. No immediate threats detected.”

“Good,” Captain Veyra said, her voice resolute. “Proceed with descent. Let’s show Krios Prime that the Federation comes not to impose, but to protect and support. Eyes open, minds sharp — and no surprises.”

The hum of the shuttles echoed through the hangar bay as they detached, gliding toward the planet below. Every officer aboard the Vigilance understood what was at stake: a mission of diplomacy, a test of loyalty, and a delicate dance with potential danger lurking in every shadow.

And so, the first steps of the Princess’ tour began — a journey that would test courage, skill, and perhaps even the hearts of those aboard the USS Vigilance.

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