Final Frontier III story.
 

I'll get things started with a short intro to the Dominion.




The Dominion ruled over a single planet. Once it may have been a paradise, well suited for supporting a civilisation. Minerals were abundant, as were resources which, with the minimum of effort, could be used for fuel. Gardens devoted to producing organic chemicals abounded. Any other race however, even if they breathed the atmosphere, would find it unpleasant. For the Dominion perfection was important, as it was for many other races, but whereas another race might find perfection in nature or art or beauty, the Dominion cared only for Order. The Minerals were ruthlessly mined for material to build facilities, weapons and ships. The Radioactive elements of the planet were stripped to fuel the Dominions machines and Organics existed solely to feed the servants of the Dominion. Although even this differed from the normally accepted use of the word “feed”. Resources were not foolishly depleted but maintained so as to avoid decay or pollution. Located in a section of the Metropolis built on the surface over nearly two and a half millennia, was located a huge building that covered nearly a hundred square miles. A single Vorta travelled by foot through a succession of hall ways. His name was Nehran.
As with all servants of the Dominion, Nehran had spent all his lives on this one world. No member of the Dominion could leave the planet for fear that the Cleansing would detect them and find the Founders. The term, lives, was appropriate as even though technically he was one individual, there had been a succession of Nehrans serving the Founders. As each Nehran would die, either by natural means or the occasional industrial accident, a new Nehran was cloned and given the identity and memories of the previous. It was among these memories that Nehran searched as he moved through the lit hallways. He had been summoned by the Founders and was worried to think what could possibly have happened to have incurred their notice. Eventually he reached a gateway flanked on either side by a pair of Jem’Hadar. These two were Epsilons. 7 feet tall, they were created so as to tower over all subjects of the Dominion. The extra height was deemed unnecessary for common Jem’Hadar soldiers, so the extra time involved growing them was only spent on those used for ceremonial guards. Despite his slight stature, a feature of all Vorta, Nehran was confident enough in his devotion to the Founders that he was not worried by their size. He walked up to the guards. Beyond the gate lay the domain of the Founders. None were allowed past and in all probability the guards themselves had never entered.
“I am Nehran. The Founders summoned me” he announced.
The Jem’Hadar looked down at Nehran for a moment. As always they appeared to be sizing him up to either ignore him or break him in half. Eventually however they each reached for a door and swung them open. Nehran proceeded in. His previous confidence waned somewhat. He had never been allowed in before.
. There was only one entrance to the room, the gateway Nehran had passed though, but around the walls there stood many geometric shapes and items, furniture, and sculptures. Nehran looked around the room but there was no sign of the Founders. He wandered around viewing the exhibits. He supposed they were what he had read were called “Art” by other races. As with all Vorta he failed to understand their purpose. They did not produce anything, they supplied no protection, in fact some were quite frail looking, and they did not fulfil any actual function. On the wall to his left was a chair, perhaps to seat guests, a Stand with a hollow Pyramid intersected by another Pyramid and a rock. Ahead of him was a delicate crystal vase filled with a green liquid, and to either side a tall wooden structure which appeared to have 2 more doors. Hesitantly he walked up and attempted to open the wooden doors, but they refused to open. Prevented in his attempt to leave the room he turned to his right. On the wall hung a 2 dimensional picture, comprising many colours, which he failed to comprehend, the colours appearing to be laid almost randomly. Then a crystalline creature of some sort, followed by a bronze sculpture of many turning tubes and rods. He bent down to take a closer look.
“Nehran” a voice spoke. Not particularly loud, but the suddenness and unexpectedness almost meant another clone would be needed. Nehran tried to calm his nerves as he turned towards the voice.
The chair and the rock still stood alongside the wall but in place of the Pyramids stood a Founder. Nehran bowed immediately, averting his eyes.
“For…forgive me Founder.” Nehran pleaded.
“Stand, Nehran” the Founder ordered. Nehran raised his eyes. The Founder in front of him was not one he knew, though he had learned practically from his conception that this meant nothing, but it had taken on a faintly male appearance.
“I came as ordered, Founder” Nehran explained, as if his very presence did not prove his statement.
“It was I who ordered you here” answered the Founder as it crossed the room to stand in front of the nervous Vorta.
“I live to serve” replied Nehran.
“Of course you do, that is why we made you”. The Founder halted momentarily for this wisdom to soak in, before continuing. “We have a new duty for you”.
“What is it that the Founders wish of me?”
“You are to organise the Dominions journey into space”.
This fact was more shocking to the Vorta then the Founders sudden appearance.
“Space?, but Founder, the Cleansing” uttered Nehran. His concern for the Dominion momentarily causing him to question the Founder”
“The Cleansing is no more a threat” exclaimed the Founder. Despite the fact that the Dominion had spent two and a half millennia on this planet hiding from the Cleansing, if the Dominions gods said they were no longer a threat than Nehran did not doubt them.
“We have taken note of your skills Nehran. For all the time we have chosen to stay on this planet, we have been pleased with you and your predecessor’s service”. Nehrans heart again leapt, this time not from shock but the joy to know he had been noticed.
“I shall continue to serve with dedication” Nehran said.
“We are confident that you shall do so. Now go, we shall send the information to your office. Start immediately to organise the initial ships”.
“It shall be done, great Founder”. With that Nehran bowed yet again and backed out of the room, stopping momentarily while the Jem’Hadar guards let him out.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Nice start. Perked my interest... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

The Vorta, Kerin, was but a lowly functionary within the scheme of things. Although he was satisfied to fulfil his function, the most any Vorta could be expected to do; he had never truly been called upon to serve any great purpose. At the moment he was responsible for organising one of the new colonies, established in the wake of the decision by the Founders to spread out once again into space. The Planet itself did not at first seem to be of any drastic use. A member of another race, not privy to the grace of the Founders, may have doubted it had any importance at all, but Kerin, as a true follower of the Dominion, knew that it was not important that he understand, only that he obey. Still he did wonder why the planet had been colonised when other planets apparently deserved greater priority than this one.
His minor doubts were fed even more by the news that a Founder was soon to arrive. Again Kerin could not understand why. Once he had been informed however he had placed maximum importance on preparing for one of the gods to bless them with its presence. An Honour Guard had been formed from the Jem’Hadar garrison, and all Vorta not needed for crucial duties had lined up for the arrival. Presently the shuttle bearing the Founder descended through the atmosphere to set down in the square of the recently established colony. A great cloud of gas spread over those present as the shuttles landing gear bore the crafts weight. Soon the boarding ramp descended and a guard of Jem’Hadar marched out to take up positions. The Founder itself then descended. Kerin strode forth, before kneeling in homage.
“We are blessed by your presence, Founder” he said as he bowed.
“Rise Kerin” ordered the founder, one that had taken on the form of a female.
Kerin rose, daring to lay eyes upon his god.
“You wonder why I am here?” questioned the Founder. Kerin did not even begin to wonder how the Founder sensed his doubt, did not a god know everything.
“Yes Founder” he replied.
“What do you see?” questioned the founder, again.
Kerin looked about him, seeing the ranks of Jem’Hadar troops, and the buildings erected around the colony.
“I see the greatness of the Dominion, Founder”
“Yes you do, but what else is it that you see?”
Kerin looked again, but apart from the force arrayed about him there was nothing else but the untouched wilderness, the trees, the hills, and a mountain.
“Only chaos, to be formed to the Dominions will” he replied.
“Follow me” the Founder ordered marching off, its guard hastening to follow.

The Founder had stridden without tire through the countryside, until it had reached an outcrop of rock on the slope of the mountain. It went without question that the Founder would not tire from the journey, and the Jem’Hadar were used to this type of exertion. Kerin however was more used to intellectual exercises, and was exhausted from the long trek. Still if the Founders had deemed it necessary they would have built him to handle such physical effort. The Founder did not pause, and Kerin fully expected it to continue on until it merged with the mountainside. However as it reached the wall the rocks themselves suddenly began to grind, and an opening appeared, the rocks on either side swinging inwards. Momentarily surprised by the sudden appearance of the gate, Kerin had to break into a run to catch up. Once inside he found the Founder standing still, another greater gate, this time clearly artificial, and to Kerin’s surprise marked by the Dominion, standing at one end of a long hallway. The Founder spoke as Kerin walked up.
“We always knew the day would come when the Cleansing would pass from our space and no longer threaten us. We planned for this day by secreting in certain locations, such as this, the technology needed to rebuild our Dominion. Within this facility you will find technology vital to our growth. We deemed it wise not to utilise it while the threat remained, but now it is ready to be used again.” The Founder paused. “Kerin, take the technology from inside, and begin production of the facility plans stored within”
“The Founders are wise in all things” Kerin exclaimed in awe.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Cool http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif Nice read. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif More please. (Great intel source for use Hirogen)

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

“The Ocampa are a free people and we will remain so. We have been independent for 1000 generations and we shall continue to defend our freedom from any so called empire that claims dominion over us”. said the head of the Ocampan council.
Kelim paused for a moment after this outburst by the councillor. The Dominion had arrived a week before and the week so far had involved endless debate by the Ocampans. Honestly, the Talaxians had been less trouble, and they had been powerless since the Haakonians had set them free. This councillor, from all that Kelim knew, was a mere 5 years old, there had been Jem’Hadar serving under Kelim that were older. The Vorta chose his words wisely, and put on his most genial smile.
“Now, now, there is no need to resort to diatribe; the Dominion has no intention of infringing in any way the freedom of the Ocampan people. We merely wish to establish peaceful relations. In fact we are anxious to discuss the possibility of cooperation between our peoples”
“Slavery, you mean” replied the councillor angrily.
“I can’t imagine where you could have gathered such outrageous ideas. No, we merely wish to continue our exploration of the surrounding space. Towards that end we wish to establish minor facilities to help our vessels in this area” explained the Vorta supervisor “We have no intention of forcing anything on your people. We offer many benefits should you agree to our proposal, entirely your own decision of course, indeed we are prepared to assist in the defence of your planet. This will of course require additional facilities and equipment, but I can see you are prepared to take any course of action to defend yourselves.”
“An occupation?” questioned the Ocampa.
“Occupation? why of course not, it would be a joint effort by both sides”.
“With you making all the decisions I assume” replied the Ocampan councillor sarcastically
“We are prepared to admit Ocampa is best suited to be organised by those who have lived here so long, albeit in such cramped circumstances” Kelim said indicating the underground city outside the room’s window. The surface was uninhabitable by the Ocampa, the result of some ancient disaster the Ocampa were not prepared to discuss. ”But enough diplomacy, I am sure you are hungry after our long deliberations. I took the opportunity of having refreshments prepared” he said signalling to the armed Jem’Hadar guards flanking the doorway. They opened the door and more Jem’Hadar, still armed, wheeled in a cart of various foods the likes of which the Ocampa, forced by circumstances to survive on hydroponically grown food, were not familiar with.
“I suggest the Talaxian soup. It’s a bit spicy, but we recently gained the recipe. I’m sure you’ll like it”
The Ocampan councillor hesitantly chose some of the food on offer and began to dine.
“By the way congratulations on your daughter winning her school prize. What is she 5 months old? About the time they start to be more trouble than you are prepared for” remarked Kelim. The councillor began to choke on his food.
“Oh dear, I do hope the food is not too rich” inquired Kelim
“What do you know about my daughter?” inquired the Ocampan, a look of shock crossing his face.
“Oh word gets around. She sounds quite intelligent. Surely she will go on to follow her father serving her people well. The rest of your family must be quite proud”
“My family!” asked the Ocampan, shock showing even more on his face.
“Oh yes, they are settling in well in your new house, in what, the Orius district isn’t it?. I must say you have a nice dwelling. I took the liberty of viewing it though one of our ships tactical sensors when I arrived. Not that I am able to appreciate it enough I am sure. My talents lean more towards more intellectual pursuits, Organising weapons tests, commanding the troops under me” explained Kelim
“What are you saying?” the Ocampan asked hesitantly.
“Me, nothing, I am merely congratulating you on the condition of your family. It would be dreadful if something bad happened. Still I am sure there is nothing to worry about. Once you have finished your meal I am sure we can finish our discussion.”
Yes, Kelim did not see much more difficulty in the negotiations. Soon the Dominion would manage to establish their new bases and then they could expand further.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Note: I am clearly giving away much knowledge of the Dominion, but I do so dislike going for long periods without adding narrative.

For all of recorded history the Bajoran people had given worship to the Prophets. Their entire way of life was devoted to serving their Gods, who lived within the Celestial Temple far from the light of Baha’Vel. Ancient tales, fragmented and mostly lost, told of other races that had once lived in harmony with the inhabitants of Bajor. If such tales could be believed these other races lived in other star systems like Bajors. However Kai Baren, leader of the Prophets servants, held little regard for such fairy tales. Despite the stars in the night sky there had never been any way to leave Bajors system, not in recorded history. Proponents of such ideas had laughable ideas to support their beliefs. Fairy tales of ships with sails like those that plied Bajors oceans, travelling through space from system to system. No, Kai Baren did not believe such foolishness. There was only one possible way to leave Bajors light and that was to travel through the Celestial Temple, an idea that no respecting follower of the Prophets would consider, unless summoned. However, now the impossible seemed to have occurred. The Prophets had descended from the stars and presented themselves to the Bajoran people, or at least their servants had.
A few moons ago a ship, but not a ship as like those that sailed the oceans, had emerged from the Celestial Temple. There had been much celebrating. Surely the Prophets had looked down on their loyal servants for these many eons and had come to take those deemed worthy to dwell in the Celestial Temple with them. Even now Kai Baren, who had no doubt he would be chosen, knelt before the Prophets Emissary. The title of the Prophets Soldiers, these Jem’Hadar, was unknown but some research through the holy texts had uncovered a description of them that matched the pictures he had seen. They were described as tall and scaled like a lizard, but more importantly they were mentioned to be loyal to their gods, gods who could take the shape of anything or anybody, even friends and loved ones. A fact known by all Bajorans to be how the Prophets revealed themselves. These Heavenly soldiers were said not to eat or sleep but instead were created and kept alive only by the grace of their gods.
“Greetings, Emissary. We are blessed by your presence and are prepared to ascend to the Celestial Temple”
The Vorta Emissary, who unbeknownst to the Kai was better informed about ancient history, looked down upon the prostrate Kai.
“The time has not yet come for those loyal to the Prophets to ascend. We however bring greetings from the Founders...of your faith”
“We are obedient to the calls of the Prophets” replied Baren.
“We are sure of it, but for now we bring news from the Founders. They call for you to obey us, their chosen servants. The ways of the Founders may be strange to you but as long as you obey our requests we shall grant our help to your people. We have many secrets we shall use to better the lives of the Faithful.
“The Prophets be praised” exclaimed the Kai.
“Indeed” answered the Vorta, mysteriously.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

The control room was surprisingly quiet. Although dozens of Jem’Hadar and Vorta supervisors were at work there were no superfluous sounds, each operator obeying or issuing commands without recourse to unnecessary chatter or conversation. Weyas, Chief supervisor for the launch looked around him quietly taking pride in the atmosphere. All present united in service to the Founders.
“Launch platforms prepared” reported one of the Jem’Hadar assistants.
“Begin Countdown” Weyas ordered.
“Beginning countdown…..5….4...3...2...1”
.The operator pressed the launch console and nearby a number of Drones launched from their racks quickly leaving the atmosphere and heading directly for the nearest wormhole. Without pause they transited the wormhole and emerged on the other side. Weyas and the other officials observed the relay feed. They were confronted by a dark waste. Once there had been light, assumedly, but all light had been extinguished along with any worlds that may have once existed in the system, when the sun had collapsed forming a black hole. A Dominion ship had discovered the Black hole a few months previously, and although the ship in question had managed to escape the Dominion was unwilling to risk any further ships. This was not to say they were unwilling to lose the crews, for any servant of the Founders would be willing to die if it would advance the Dominion, rather it was simply decided to be more advantageous to use high speed probes to scout the next systems. The probes continued on into the system, taking courses that would hopefully skirt the event horizon and bring them safely to the other side. So far things went as planned. Then 2 of the drones ceased sending data. Meanwhile the remaining drones kept moving.
“Second Aet’atem, What happened? Did they fall into the centre” Weyas, questioned.the Jem’Hadar.
“Negative. Drones were well on edge of event horizon”
“What of the others?”
“Oncourse as predicted”
“Return data from lost drones to 10 seconds before cessation”
Weyas watched as the footage of the drone traversing empty space rewound. Once again he watched as the drone exited the wormhole and edged around the system. There was a grey flash and the data ended.
“Rewind 5 seconds and slow speed to one tenth”
Again, only slower, the drone’s data showed the surrounding space as the drone made its journey. Just before the data was to cut out a form loomed ahead, then the drone was destroyed.
“Again, Rewind 2 tenths and then freeze image. Clean up image”
The Jem’Hadar officer manipulated the image and eventually a shape formed. Surprising as it sounded, and by a quirk of fate, the drones had collided with an alien ship traversing the black hole in the opposite direction. The Ship was comprised of a saucer section and propelled by what appeared to be 2 warp nacelles. Weyas had never seen the type before. A new race encountered and it had cost them 2 drones.
“The Federation” a soft voice spoke behind Weyas. Weyas turned in shock to be confronted by a Founder. Instantly he bowed and stepped back, making room for the god.
“Immediately you are to increase ships presence in this system. I do not want any of their ships to enter.” ordered the Founder.
“As the Founders wish” obeyed Weyas.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Terik’Tellet wondered what was happening. For all his life he had known only a few rooms, first the crèche and then the barracks where he and his brothers had been raised. Now they had all been ordered to a new part of the facility. A giant hall wherein he and his brothers, along with many other groups he had never seen, were ordered into ranks. Since his birth, he had known only the rule of the caretakers. Apart from his brothers, these older men were the only Jem’Hadar he had ever seen, however somehow he took comfort in the silent ranks of Jem’Hadar lined up along the hallway. He instinctively knew how to speak. He knew how to fight. He knew to take comfort in the brotherhood of the others. He never gave a thought to how he knew these things. To him and all the others this knowledge was as natural as breathing. Eventually the Hall was filled. Terik’Tellet and the others stood at attention waiting. After some time a figure walked up to the podium at the head of the hall and addressed the ranks.
“I am Aset’Telar. You will address me as Honoured Elder” at which the figure paused “I am 16 years old”
Slowly this fact soaked into Terik’Tellet’s mind. At 3 weeks of age he could barely accept that anyone could live so long.
“It is probable that none of you will reach my age” Aset’Telar continued “But perhaps, if you serve the Founders well, you may, however unlikely, one day be worthy to be addressed as honoured Elder”
The Jem’Hadar Elder came out from behind his podium and stood before the assembled troops
“Do any of you think you can defeat me?” he questioned.
“I can defeat you!” called out one of the Jem’Hadar. Terik’Tellet was unsurprised to recognise the call as being from his brother Calim’Kalen. The other Jem’Hadar had, through some unforseen mutation, grown to tower over the others from his crèche. During training over the previous weeks he had slain two of his brothers. His Brothers sometimes joked that his growth was at the expense of his intelligence. Not for the first time Terik’Tellet wondered why he hadn’t been removed along with other Jem’Hadar who had developed mutations. To Terik’Tellet’s surprise the Elder seemed to have been expecting the challenge.

A space was cleared in the center of the hall and the 2 combatants faced off. The giant Jem’Hadar loomed over the Elder, who was slowly limbering up. Terik’Tellet could see that Calim’Kalen had already decided the thin Elder would be no match. His anticipation of victory was apparent in his smile. Soon the 2 combatants were ready. At the ring of a bell Calim’Kalen rushed forward, as always planning to defeat his foe through brute strength. The Elder responded and suddenly Calim’Kalen was sprawled on the ground. The Elder quickly knelt and gripped his opponents head in his arm. Baring strength the others had not expected he pulled and the hall resounded with a loud crack as the giants neck snapped. The lifeless body collapsed, a lesson to all those watching. Standing the Elder spoke
“Witness the price of disobedience. You have been training. Train always!. Unlike lesser races you have no need to rest. While they sleep you can train and fight. But training is not all you need. Do not question your superiors and always obey your orders. Obedience brings victory”
“…and victory is life!” responded the soldiers, their voices echoing through the hall

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Youth these days hey? So some poor planet is about to get invaded then I guess http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

Good read

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

that is, if they can cross the wormhole http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Nehran had presided over the expansion of the Dominion for nearly 6 years, and in that time had organised the occupation or treaty with a number of species, the Talaxians, the Ocampa, Bajorans, and Betazoids. But now Nehran was having a new experience. A race called the Bandi had contacted the Dominion and actually requested through their own decision a military alliance with them. Nehran did not know if the Founders were responsible, or if the Bandi truly wished to invite Dominion forces, but if they had it was proof of their divinity. The Bandi lay on the very fringes of Dominion space, at the very limit of Dominion reach. By accepting the Bandi plea the Dominion would instantly have access to facilities to refuel and enhance the range of Dominion exploration. Nehran did not pause to consider the option but immediately ordered acceptance of the treaty and the movement of Dominion forces to the new area of expansion. New Farpoint station.

Edit of an old post: Let me just point out here, rather than break the story by adding a post, I just noticed in the game there is a nuetral betazoid AI. When I mention Betazoids above I was referring to the planets of the Betazoid system I found.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

It was a bright sunny day in Jo’Kara city. Many Bajoran families had taken the opportunity to get out into the sun, going to the neighbourhood temple or the nearest marketplace. A handful of Bajorans however instead hid themselves away from the sun. To them it was too important that their gathering not be witnessed, or at least it was important to the one who had called them all here.
“I’m telling you, the Founders are not the Prophets!” exclaimed Teris Surin, the impromptu leader of the hidden gathering, his voice echoing in the cellar.
“.but Kai Baren says…” replied one of the group
“I don’t care what the Kai says” interrupted Surin. The group was shocked. It was inconceivable that any one would doubt the spiritual leader of the Bajoran people. The group had chosen to meet here, in this dank, barely lit cellar, at Surin’s request as they were all his friends. Some of them began to wonder if it had been a wise choice.
“The Kai says he found proof in the ancient texts to support his announcement, correct?” continued the impromptu leader.
“Yes, I was in the temple when the Kai made the announcement” replied Garis Kar, standing at the front of the group facing Teris. “I saw with my own eyes the Prophets emissary appear in a hail of light at the Kai’s side”
“I looked further into the texts and the Kai is wrong, these so called emissaries aren’t from the Prophets!”
“Why would you look further once the Kai made his announcement?” spoke up another Bajoran.
“Does it not bother you that these emissaries come to us to trade for resources? Every month more and more of our minerals, produce and energy is taken by them. I ask, what need have the Prophets for such wordly goods?”
“The ways of the Prophets are beyond our comprehension” answered Kar.
“Yes, and to aid my comprehension I delved deeper into the histories. I searched the ancient texts at the library in Janiza province, and what did I find? Records describing these Jem’Hadar and their Vorta”
“The Kai quoted the same texts. There is no doubt that the emissaries match the description of the Prophets servants” explained Kar “The Jem’Hadar serve their gods, gods that match descriptions of the Prophets taking Bajoran form”
“But in these ancient texts I found information saying that the Jem’Hadar gods, these Founders, opposed the Bajoran people in the past. It was with the help of people from other planets that they were defeated”
“We are all aware of such fairy tales. Such stories of ships in space are only fit for children” Kar admonished Surin. Surin held up a hand silencing Kar. Turning about he pulled out a wrapped package nearby. Carefully he unwrapped the package and to the groups dismay they could see the book was ancient.
“It is forbidden to remove the ancient texts from the libraries” someone spoke up.
“I took this book from the library in Janiza, so that you could see with your own eyes the proof of my words”
Surin explained.
“I don’t think that was wise Surin” Kar spoke up “What if the temple guards catch you?”
“What if many things, what if my accusations are correct. Every day the Vorta emissaries ask more and more from us. Please, just read what I have found. For the sake of our friendship”
“Very well, but the book must be returned. I can just imagine how much damage the conditions here must be doing the longer you hide it”
“Thank you” answered Surin “ I promise you I am right. We must act or I fear we are doomed to be conquered much as the Pah’Wraiths “ at which every Bajoran made the sign of the Prophets to ward off evil “ and their servants, the Adasians, once ruled us”

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

The throng pushed and shoved as they cried out their chants of defiance. The area around the Dominion Facility was packed with a huge crowd of protestors. Led by some of the local Vedics they had met to protest the Dominions increasing calls for more and more resources, all the time failing to share any of the knowledge they had promised. Although not affiliated with Surin’s resistance, these people had independently joined to voice their growing displeasure at what they were fast coming to realise were not the heavenly visitors from the Prophets. The throng had started a non-violent protest around the Dominion facility and soon the local authorities not to mention the Jem’Hadar garrison had started to take note.
Surin and Kar stood at the back of the crowd. Kar had cautioned against getting involved, but Surin had insisted it was important to witness the beginning of the Bajorans rejection of their visitors.
“It’s not safe Surin!” exclaimed Kar “Who knows what will happen. The Authorities are sure to put a stop to it”
“What can they do” replied Surin “It is a peaceful protest. Soon the authorities are sure to hear our demands and then the Dominion will be forced to answer the questions we put to them. I know Vedic Barinus. He wouldn’t do anything violent”
“I hope you’re right” then peering out into the crowd Kar continued “Is that my cousin Erin over there? I hope she doesn’t get crushed by the crowd. I’ll just go over and see to her”. Left alone by his friend Surin looked over the crowd. As he had said, the gathering was peaceful. Vedic Barinus himself stood at the front of the crowd, and in a loud voice was calling out to the Dominion to answer his questions. Behind him the front of the crowd pushed and swayed waiting for any response. A Vorta, dwarfed by his Jem’Hadar guards on each flank, had come out and was observing the crowd. When Barinus paused the Vorta stepped forward.
“Come now, there is no need for such a display. If we were to sit down and discuss your quarrel I am sure we could come to a mutually satisfactory agreement to put an end to any disagreement between us” the Vorta asked, spreading his arms wide and smiling. Surin stepped closer so as to hear the discussion more clearly. Barinus had listened to the Vorta’s plea and now replied in kind.
“We do not need to sit down and talk. All my fellow Bajorans have the right to hear your answers.”
“But there are many extenuating facts. Entirely too many to present in such an impromptu environment as this”
“I must say he has a lot to say even if it isn’t the answers the Vedic seeks” said Kar. Surin jumped a little, not having noticed his friends return.
“It matters not” Surin answered “ soon he will run out of his words, and then the only ones left will be the answers we want”
“Very well” replied the Vorta, his voice struggling to be heard over the noise of the crowd. “ To answer your questions…”
“Enough talk!” a voice cried out. Off to one side the crowd had stepped forward to hear the Vorta’s words and now a lone Bajoran had stepped out of the crowd “Leave our world!” he shouted. The Bajoran lifted up a rock and made to throw it.
“NO!” cried out Surin, his words faintly echoed by Vedic Barinus. But the denial did little to stop the rock as it sailed through the air, narrowly missing the Vorta. It may have missed but the solitary act of violence was all the Jem’Hadar needed. The Guards stepped forward as the Vorta took cover. Raising their weapons they opened fire. Barinus and the front of the crowd were mown down. The crowd behind them turning and desperately trying to escape, but thousands of Bajorans were in the crowd and there was no way they could suddenly all move at once. Those Bajorans in the second row lasted little longer than the unfortunate front row as the Jem’Hadar opened fire again heedless of their victims having their back to them. Soon the crowd obtained its own momentum however and the crowd flowed out, the unfortunate being crushed under foot as people desperately tried to escape.
“No, no, no” Surin cried helplessly. He stood rooted to the spot as people ran past, not believing what was happening.
“Surin!. We must escape” Kar said, desperately pulling oat his friend.
“It was meant to be peaceful. We just needed to talk”
“It has happened, but we must leave or they will kill us, just as much as the Vedic and the others”. Heeding his friend’s advice Surin turned and escaped with the crowd as the Jem’Hadar finished off the remaining protestors too slow to escape.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Slowly the Dominion fleet travelled through the inner space of the Bajorans home system. The fleet comprised only a handful of warships, but for this operation the solitary transport vessel was considered the key.

Kai Baren peered out of the balcony window of the Great Temple. Ever since the Dominion had been forced to react when the protesters turned violent, incidents of revolt had surged. It was getting dangerous to walk the streets of the capital as groups of religious dissidents and other Bajorans roamed about calling for the expulsion of the Dominion forces on Bajor. Kai Baren knew he had been doing the right thing and wished vehemently the rebels could see sense. Know people were massing at the temple gates demonstrating and throwing torn up rocks at the temple. He was disturbed from his observation of the central plaza by an all too familiar sound of chimes as 3 figures appeared from thin air behind him in a shower of light. The Emissary, flanked by two Jem’Hadar guards appeared. Quickly he ran over to them.
“What are we going to do?” he asked nervously “The rebels seem to grow day by day. Even some of my temple guard are said to have joined them”
“Be patient. The Founders, in their wisdom, have decided on a course of action sure to bring the disturbances to an end” the Vorta explained. For a moment the Kai was taken aback by the Emissarie’s choice of words, he would hardly have described the general revolution of the populace as a disturbance, and he was still uneasy at the Vorta’s use of the title Founders in place of The Prophets.
“I have tried talking to them but they are starting to ignore me” the Kai explained nervously.
“Discussion is the natural way to solve disputes between reasonable men, but I fear we must resort to…cruder means to put down the disruptive elements”
“such as?”

The fleet edged closer to the Bajorans home world. What few warships there were tried to halt it’s progress, but a demonstration of the Dominions might soon swept them from space. As the rebels detected the Dominions advance many small vessels rose from the surface intent on halting the dominions progress, but their weapons were little more than an irritation to the warships and soon the fighters joined their larger companions in oblivion, and then the delivery of the transports cargo began.

“Force?” questioned the Kai in astonishment.
“It has become clear disruptive elements of your population are no longer willing to heed the words of your government. We are sure it is a mere minority of your people that have turned on us for no reason, after all have we not done much of benefit for the Bajoran people. We have traded with you. We have offered assistance. Why you have now started to colonise other planets in your system. Surely you can see even that is a result of the assistance we have given you” the Vorta explained calmly “So it has been decided that in the best interests of peace we shall assist your security forces by eradicating the rebels before they cause too much damage to your innocent civilians. Towards that end we are delivering a contingent of troops to put down the rebellion”. Gradually the Kai could hear further commotion outside. The demonstrators seemed to fall silent before there was a suddenly eruption of screaming, much different from the earlier shouts of anger. Rushing back to the window the Kai pulled back the curtains and looked out upon the temple square. Jem’Hadar troops had appeared in force, almost filling the square, and immediately begun to fire upon the demonstrators. The revolutionaries, armed only with rocks barely stood a chance. Already most of them lay dead as the Jem’Hadar shot them down mercilessly, and peering out into the city the Kai could see further Dominion forces strategically placed to finish off the scattered rebels.
“There are additional legions of troops all over Bajor. We judge it to be little more than a month before the rogue elements are hunted down and removed. Of course the effort we make in bringing stability to you takes up precious resources, as a result we plan to initiate long term projects to bring the Bajoran people more closely into the Dominion. In fact we are prepared to offer you full membership of the Dominion rather than work through the alliance which clearly failed to work”. The Kai was silent. He had always believed what he did was in the best interests of the Bajoran people. Now it seemed his opinion no longer mattered.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Revas was discussing the maintenance of the engines with the fourth when his earpiece rang. Breaking off his discussion he turned to his control console and opened the communication channel. The Vorta whose image appeared in front of him looked about the same age as he, but this counted for little as Vorta were activated fully grown and when they could no longer serve the founders adequately they were terminated and a new younger version created.
“How may I serve the Founders?” Revas questioned.
“Sensors have detected anomalous readings in one of this systems storm, Take a squadron and investigate” the senior Vorta commanded.
“I will obey” Revas replied before terminating the link. He immediately contacted the other 2 ships in the squadron and relayed the orders. Following normal Dominion procedure one officer was given the orders and in turn passed those orders to those below them. Turning to the helmsman he gave swift orders to head for the storm. Apart from him and the first, none of the crew could actually see where they were going, except by sensors, but this was not important as long as they obeyed. Until now the ships had been guarding, without question, the Wormhole leading to the Federation. Again without question, the Jem’Hadar crew obeyed their orders. Revas was little older than his crew, only 1, and in fact the first was older, in his case 3, but none of the crew would dispute his orders. They were the Jem’Hadar, he was the Vorta, It was the order of things. Revas vessel set a course for the nearby Storm, flanked on either side by the 2 other ships. Revas was anxious to fulfil his orders quickly and get back to the wormhole. If the orders had been urgent he might have risked moving directly through the asteroid field partway to the storm but instead he ordered a heading around the field. Eventually the small squadron reached the storm and headed in.
“Sensor readings?” he asked the fourth.
“Anomalous reading at direct heading” the fourth reported.
“What kind?” demanded Revas. Jem’Hadar were made to fight and were not as technically proficient as other races but the fourth obeyed orders and scanned deeper.
“Unidentified, but roughly indicative of a vessel” the Jem’Hadar finally answered.
“Helm, head deeper into storm” Revas commanded, and the wingships followed. Revas peered through his eyepiece at the storm. Part of him knew it would be impossible for him to see anything the sensors wouldn’t pick up first, but still he strained his eyes, which the founders had deemed not important enough to improve, trying to make out anything within the swirling gasses and ion flares ahead. The strain must have been affecting him because a dark blur started to form just ahead, but then the form started to take shape.
“Sensor read.ings….” Revas shouted as the fourth reported a vessel directly ahead.
Revas looked back at the ship quickly forming in his eyepiece. The vessel, realising it had been discovered, powered up its engines and attempted to flee.
“Vessel is a Federation colony ship” the fourth reported.
Momentarily Revas wondered how a Federation vessel could be in Dominion space. It certainly couldn’t have gotten past the heavily armed defences at the wormhole, which would mean it must have been observing the system since before the border was established. How it came to be here quickly became irrelevant however as the enemy ship was attempting to escape.
“Destroy it” he commanded.
The enemy vessel futilely attempted to escape but it was not built to outrun warships and quickly the squadron caught up to it. They unleashed a hail of fire that tore pieces from it until eventually the weight of fire caused it to explode. Revas ordered the wreckage to be scanned, and then set course out of the storm so he could report what he had discovered. The Dominion would have to ready its defences. Apparently the Federation could not be trusted.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Nice chapter.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Good to see someone's still writing. I have a start of a chapter lying around and a file full of ideas. The problem is to add the two together....

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

I need to get my arse in gear and do something with OUTS. (Once Upon The Stars).

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

The Jem’Hadar moved silently up to the heavy door. Using their battle language the First quickly assigned orders and troops took up position on either side of the door. The squad had worked together for years, ever since their birth and acted in unison. One soldier moved up to the door and placed a small explosive, then moved out of the way. The Jem’Hadar waited as the display counted down and then with a loud blast the door was blown off its mounting. The Jem’Hadar rushed into the house. A dark figure, shrouded by the smoke fired at the soldiers, its shot missing. It never got another shot as it was cut down by Jem’Hadar fire. The soldiers moved through the house, eliminating resistance as they encountered it. They eventually reached the main room they had been briefed on. Knocking down the door they rushed in. One soldier was cut down by amber fire but in return a volley of azure energy took down the armed opponent. One last figure was left and even as it was surrounded it attempted to finish its work, damaging the transmitter whose signal had alerted the Dominion to the secret group’s presence. The humanoid was sent sprawling, knocked down by the butt of a Jem’Hadar blaster. All resistance eliminated the Vorta supervisor came into the room. Looking down on the figure he spoke
“Did you really think you could act within the Dominion without our knowledge” The figure just glared up at him, silent.
“Take him away” the Vorta commanded “I’m sure our friend here has much we might find of value.” The Jem’Hadar pulled the prisoner to its feet, Roughly pushing it along, and as it moved past the Vorta he spoke one more time.
“Isn’t that right, Human”

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

I do have to say I enjoy these chapters http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif seing my actions translated into story. you're a good writer.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Second Reman’Etek paused for a moment to survey his surrounds. Around him his fellow squad members struggled through the ruins, advancing on the entrenched Bandi militia. Though the Bandi had been considered a minor threat they had still managed to oppose the Dominion forces for a month, and though their weapons were weak in comparison to the Dominions they were still strong enough to kill any Jem’Hadar unfortunate, or foolish, enough to be hit, and the Bandi had shown a surprising ability to use snipers. The Bandi had always been willing to assist the Dominion, even going so far as to formally request a partnership. The Dominion had been glad to accept the Bandi hospitality, refuelling their vessels as they expanded further and further, even creating a military outpost to service Dominion vessels, but the time came when Bandi independence had reached its limits of usefulness. They may have been willing to agree to a partnership but order was what the Dominion prized and they believed the best way to ensure order was to ensure obedience, and the Hurada systems location along a warp chain to the border meant that acces must be guaranteed. Hence the Military outpost that the Bandi had been so willing to accept ultimately was turned towards the provisioning and establishment of a fleet, a fleet that in time launched an attack on Hurada prime, the Bandi homeworld. The Bandi had simply awoken one morning to find the Dominion fleet in orbit of their world. Once the invaders intentions had been learnt some Bandi militia had launched an ultimately hopeless attack on the fleet. The Dominion had learnt its lessons well from the conquest of the Bajorans and their vessels easily swept the myriad fighters and shuttles from orbit. That done the Jem’Hadar shock troops transported down to the planet and launched the ground assault. Now much of the capital city lay in ruins, although the Jem’Hadar had followed their orders to avoid any damage of the cities infrastructure. Once the Bandi had been forced into the Dominion their facilities would serve well.
As Reman’Etek watched the First ordered his squad to outflank the Bandi position. A Bandi sniper however, seeing an obvious officer issuing orders, picked off the First. Either through inexperience or fatigue, however the sniper failed to relocate his position in time and a number of Jem’Hadar in cover followed the trace of Bandi fire and picked off the sniper, hidden on the third floor of a nearby building. With no need to feed or sleep, and never tiring as long as they had the white, the Jem’Hadars reflexes were not dulled by the long battle. Without a second thought Reman’Etek took up the mantle of leadership and directed the troops around him, staying close to cover in case any more snipers were around. While half the squad moved around the ruins, the second and his remaining men continued to fire on the enemy trench, keeping the enemies attention. The enemy fired back and the second moved further into cover. Then the enemy blasts were joined by what Reman’Etek recognised as Jem’Hadar fire. Soon the enemy fire died down and ceased and then the Jem’Hadar now occupying the trench signalled the others to advance. Cautiously Reman’Etek and his remaining men advanced, dropping over the lip of the trench to land among the remains of the defenders. The late First and Reman’Etek had come to realise that enemy resistance had seemed concentrated around this bunker. Moving along the trench, making his way over the bodies of the dead Bandi, the Jem’Hadar came up to a reinforced door, leading down into the bunker. Motioning for a demolotion charge, the second moved his troops back taking cover. The seventh placed the charge and then hurried back to the other troops. Soon the door erupted and the Jem’Hadar rushed along the trench, moving quickly into the room. A number of Bandi lay on the ground, attempting to rise from the floor. The Jem’Hadar kept them down either by kicking them or striking them with their weapons. One Elderly Bandi was coughing at the cloud of dust raised by the explosion. He face was worn, and he had long lank hair and brown clothing. He did not look like a soldier, although the Bandi militia took whatever troops they could. What he did look like, to Reman’Eteks notice, was Premier Derath, the leader of the Bandi. Activating his communications device Reman’Etek contacted Dominion Headquarters to report the Bandi leader had been captured. The Vorta at the other end congratulated him and ordered his squad to take the Bandi back for interrogation.
“It shall be done at once!” Reman’Etek replied, forcing the elderly man to his feet. The Militia soon came to learn that their leader had been captured, and soon they reluctantly laid down their arms, slowly starting to accept that they now had new leaders.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

The Assorted group materialised in an azure shower, indicative of Dominion transporters. Comprised of a variety of species, Talaxians and Ocampa, Defiant Bajorans, A few Bandi slowly coming to terms with the fact their race was now firmly under Dominion control, and lastly a few battered humans, their only link was they were now prisoners. A handful of guards appeared around them levelling their weapons while a commanding Jem’Hadar stood ahead of them, holding its weapons at ease.
“This is Internment camp 827. You are here because you are enemies of the Dominion. As of this moment we have the power of life….” At which from a signal from the First, one Bajoran prisoner was forced forward. The First swiftly levelled his weapon and as the prisoner began to plead he shot him with a single blast. The body collapsed in a way that no living form could.”...and death. You are free to move around but If you fail to obey orders you will share his fate. You may go” The newly arrived prisoners slowly made their way into the facility, but at another signal the Federation prisoners were halted.
“Your government continues to send spies into the Dominion. They have no chance but you will help us plan our response. You can assist willingly or we will force you to reveal what we want to know” said the First. “Take them to interrogation” the First commanded turning to the guards. The Federation prisoners were led off. One way or another they would talk.

OC: I have been wondering why the Federation has been goading me, and I think I know the answer. It's an attempt to make me write about the Federation more http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/image...es/biggrin.gif

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

The Vorta supervisor for the consolidation of the Bandi Timmeron was anxious to view his new prize. In the final phase of the, albeit brief, operation the Jem’Hadar had occupied the final colony in the system. A gas giant, the Vorta expected that the facilities within the close orbit habitats would be of use to the Dominion. Scans showed that the planet held above average concentrations of aerial fauna and radioactive gases. He had just occupied the Governors office and was starting to inspect the facility listings. A research station, the Vorta could just guess what sort of research projects it might hold. A Storage facility, which was fair enough, even a disorderly society like the Bandi had to store their resources somewhere, although he thought the space could have been better served with a more appropriate facility. That was nearly a mere 10% of the available space so surely the rest would be more research projects, but the Vorta was shocked by what he next read. He had to read again but even then he could hardly believe it. The other 93% of the available space was devoted to gathering trace minerals from the atmosphere. Normally this was nothing exceptional; a number of gas giants within the Dominion were devoted to the gathering of rare trace minerals valuable to the Dominions security but in those cases the resource gathering facilities were worth the effort. What the Vorta read was beyond belief. This planet had a mineral concentration less than 10% of average. What was the point of building so many facilities for so little return? The monthly turnover was little more than the return from 2 such facilities on a more appropriate planet. If this was an indication of the level of organisation inherent in the now deposed Bandi government then they were lucky the Dominion had stepped in to take control.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Emit’Ikan brutally rammed his bayonet into the Pakled, then as the enemy cried in pain he pulled it out. The Pakled fell heavily futilely holding the rolls of fat along its stomach as it died. Taking a moment to evaluate the battleground the Jem’Hadar soldier noted that the last remnants of the Pakled defense had been eliminated. After the long campaign against the Bajorans and using tactics field tested against the Bandi, the Dominion had swept though this system after their initial attack had captured the main planet. This was the third, no wait the fourth, planet the Dominion had seized this month alone and the Pakled had hardly given any resistance. Whereas the Dominion had millennia of experience in warfare the Pakleds seemed intellectually incapable of forming any successful tactics. Within a month, two at the most, the Pakled would be brought into the Dominion. Although the Vorta or Founders saw no need to share information between Jem’Hadar of different armies, information inevitably filtered through. After a long campaign against resistance fighters in Bajor the Dominion had nearly finished their pacification. Information had also spread that the Ferengi were causing some sort of disturbance. Emit’Ikan had no doubt the Dominion would be victorious. Part of him wished he could be part of it, but a Jem’Hadars wishes were of no importance. He had his orders, orders he would not hesitate to obey, besides although he had been bred specifically for the Pakled campaign the surrounding space was close enough to the border that it was not outside the realms of possibility he could soon be shipped towards the border with the Borg. They had consistently refused any discussion, their only messages being calls for the Dominions assimilation. Emit’Ikan had picked up some descriptions of them and he relished the opportunity to test himself against these machines. What chance did unthinking drones stand against a Jem’Hadar, bred for battle and with the forces of the Dominion at his side.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Death to all Pakleds! They are a dumb combersome and annoying species! We Klingons envy you for having killed one!

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

Sometimes the great losses the Bajoran people had incurred led Surin to doubt if rising up against the Dominion had been wise. Although the Resistance had held out for nearly two years they had for the most part been helpless to watch as one by one the Dominion had occupied Bajoran planets. Now this one small hidden outpost was, to Surins knowledge, the last remaining redoubt against the Dominion total control of the Bajoran people. When his doubts began to grow too much he looked back to that day in Jo’Kara when the Dominion had fired on the crowd, the result of which had been a general uprising. When he remembered the site of all those people gunned down he was convinced the Dominion was evil, and with that his doubts had disappeared. He may have been opposed to the way the Kai, who didn’t even deserve the position, consorted with the Dominion, but that didn’t mean he had turned his backs on the Prophets, the real Prophets not the pretenders, the Founders, and the Prophets said that evil must be opposed. But still he despaired. What remained of the Resistance was in this base and the Bajoran government had done nothing. They sat back and did nothing as the Dominion exerted more and more influence on the Bajoran government. Couldn’t they see that soon there would be no Bajoran government and the Dominion would have free reign.
As he sat despairing he received a call.
“General, we have detected a large Dominion force on a course towards us” the officer informed him. Leaping from his seat he rushed out of his office into the operation room.
“Go to red alert! raise the shields!” he commanded “and mobilise the militia”. The room dimmed as emergency power was diverted to weapons and shields. Coming to his side, Surin’s friend Kar spoke up,
“You do realise they outgun us” he explained.
“They could have all the guns in the galaxy but it is nothing against our strength” Surin replied, but not even he was convinced.
“Perhaps you better go make sure the fighters are ready in case we need to escape” he continued with a rueful smile on his face.
“Of course” answered Kar before he departed for the hangars.
“Dominion vessels have reached orbit” the sensor operator reported. Almost as soon as he had finished however the base rocked as the Dominion fleet began to rain down fire.
“Shields at 50%” the tactical office reported.
“Return fire”
“No effect” the reply came. The base was rocked by another blast.
“Shields disabled” and at that moment the operations room was lit up by a blue light as squads of Jem’Hadar soldiers materialised around the room. Surin cut one down with his disruptor even as the young tactical officer was stabbed in the back by a Jem’Hadar bayonet. The room soon descended into a storm of weapons fire as the Bajorans and Jem’Hadar exchanged fire. Soon Surin and 2 others were pinned down on one side of the room. Unable to move it would be but a moment before they were overrun. As the Jem’Hadar pinned them down Surin considered his options. His gaze was drawn towards the ceiling. The resistance was short of resources and the roof was held up by a single beam. Raising his disruptor he unleashed a blast that weakened the beam, and soon the ceiling began to collapse. As the Jem’Hadar took cover Surin rose and motioned the others to follow him.
“Come on!” he cried and they followed him dodging and returning fire as they ran down the tunnel leading to the hangars. The Jem’Hadar fired back, but seemed reluctant to follow them. Exhausted with panic Surin and the two others ran into the hangar. Hopefully Kar had got the fighters running. The hangar was strewn both with collapsed equipment and supplies, the Bajorans weaved around the debris to the other side. The shuttles were there but to Surin’s surprise they were not powered up. Kar was standing calmly in the center of the room.
“What is wrong?” he asked “Why aren’t the fighters ready”
“You can not leave” Kar responded, deadpan.
“Why? Are the fighters damaged?” as he asked he turned and checked the hallway. Now was not the time to discuss things. The Jem’Hadar however had not followed them down the tunnel.
“How typical of a solid, you still do not undestand.” explained Kar “I will not let you leave”
“Solid?” then as understanding dawned Surin was shocked. All the setbacks, the defenses overrun and agents captured.
“No!”
The two other Bajorans raised their weapons but quicker than they could react twin tendrils of shining amber leapt from Kar and struck them down. Surin tried to react, but his legs failed him. Collapsing to his knees he was overcome by the feeling of failure. Finally the Jem’Hadar entered the room, taking up position around them but not approaching their god.
“NO, no, no!” Surin cried. It was all over. The Bajorans had lost. The Dominion had won.

Re: Final Frontier III story.
 

All in all the prime Vorta facilitator of Hurada considered the last few months as interesting, to coin a phrase. Those responsible for determining threats had erred. Tasked with the protection of the Dominion they had failed to forsee that the Ferengi would turn out to be hostile. It had been determined that, obsessed as they appeared to be with profit and merchandise they would not be blatant enough to launch any attacks on the Dominion. Unfortunately what had not been considered was that along with their need for profit they exhibited vast greed, and when one gave in to greed one was liable to desert reason and act unexpectedly. Thus the Ferengi had launched an attack on the Dominion. Those supposed experts had been disciplined, which meant termination, and if they were lucky, recloned. That still left the Dominion with the problem of what to do about the invaders. Unprepared, the Dominion had no choice but to withdraw as the Ferengi moved further and further taking system after system. Luckily the distance of the border from the centre of the Dominion worked in the defenders favour. True they had to withdraw, not strong enough to confront the enemy, but in return they weren’t losing many assets. Colonies were thin on the border. Still eventually the enemy started to become a major threat, such that the vast fleets hastily, though expertly, constructed were committed.


The name of the first did not matter. He was little different from the rest of the vast legions bred for this moment. Like the rest this would be his first battle, but he was confident he had the skills to serve the Founders. Out of all the newly bred troops someone had to lead, and in the absence of a Vorta for this mission he had been chosen as First. Checking the space around his ship he was humbled by its size. The Jem’Hadar were young, their vessels were barely out of the construction yards and rumours said that the enemy had better weapons, but as the elders said quantity had its own quality. The enemy had penetrated enough that they were blocking access to one of the Dominion subjects. It was decided that the time had come to stop withdrawing and to act. Activating the system wide communicator he addressed the 41 other soldiers on board.
“I am the First, and I am dead. As of this moment we are all dead. We go into battle, to reclaim our lives. This we do gladly, for we are Jem’Hadar. Our deaths are glory to the Founders” and although he could not hear them all he knew the others would obey.

It had been hoped the Ferengi would blunder into a trap, but signals received from the Hurada system indicated the enemy had halted, blockading the other end of the wormhole. Launching an attack would involved greater risk, but the Dominion had never been hesitant in expending ships and crew when the rewards were great.

The Dominion fleet exited the wormhole. The Ferengi opened fire, their weapons tearing through shields destroying many ships, but the Dominion fleet outnumbered them 8 to 1 and even as the Ferengi readied their next volley Dominion attack vessels, hardly stopping after their transit, forged ahead ramming many of the enemy ships. The Dominion also had a millennia old tactic that was not hindered by enemy shields. Those enemy vessels left were quickly dealt with by more conventional weapons. The First, whose ship had been chosen for the suicide wave never saw it.