Captain's Log 034

Posted on 10 Sep 2021 @ 5:39pm by Rear Admiral Lirha Saalm
Edited on 29 Oct 2021 @ 5:08pm

451 words; about a 2 minute read

Captain's Log, Stardate 69018.3

I, along with Ensign Alexander, have returned to Galileo following a period of brief captivity aboard the Tholian flagship. I cannot reveal much about what transpired there on official record -- only that we accomplished our goal to persuade the Tholians to assist in eliminating the remaining Genesis particles. A feat we have just accomplished.

With the combined help of the Tholian task group and Captains Rasmussen, Kohl and Navrin, we completed a final evacuation of the remaining colonists on Latari B III. The deteriorating conditions of the planet made a traditional transporter evacuation impossible and forced us into shuttlecraft and suborbital operations. As the only atmospheric-capable starship in the combined armada, Galileo performed beyond reproach. The latest official count is 1,481 colonists rescued with 15 lost during the final evacuation procedures and another four who perished from pre-existing conditions in the following hours.

The proto-Tholian entity on the surface of Latari B III was then targeted by tricobalt weaponry and significant photon torpedo ordinance in order to sterilize the site. Unfortunately, the high yields of our weapons destroyed not only the Genesis signatures, but much of the planet's surface crust across the entire main continent. As our information currently stands...the world will soon be rendered inhospitable for all terrestrial life due to atmospheric fallout. My science department informs me all plant and animal life will die off within the next 18 months due to the widespread cloud cover generated from our bombardment. Both the Latari A and B colonies are now lost to us. Total Federation casualties during the operation include 20 dead and times-three wounded. Tholian casualties are unknown, with one of their frigates lost to surface fire from the proto-Tholian.

It's a rare occurrence to not only encounter, but also initiate mutual relations with a species as reclusive and xenophobic as the Tholians. Though they have now departed from the Latari system and our communications were brief, I never sensed any hatred from them towards the Federation. Distrust and trepidation, yes, but nothing which correlates with the established doctrine taught in the Academy. Perhaps, in the aura of this disaster, there will be a future opportunity to encounter the Tholians again. In a less hostile environment, maybe, and one where we can continue this small step of cooperation.

Our task group performed a final sweep of the system for any remaining Genesis signatures and we are now preparing to depart back to our original destination - Regula I. It's been six months since our last port visit and even with our supply vessel Lagrange traveling with us, we are running low on morale and comfort.

Computer, end log

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