HIPPOCAMPUS
STARDATE 09.26.24
PROJECT-X
Captain Mobula wrapped her black manta fins around herself like a cloak as she stood on the Bridge of the Hippocampus staring at the View Screen. Two horn-like structures rose out of her head which earned her the whispered nickname of the “Devil Captain.” In truth, Captain Mobula was reserved, thoughtful, fair, prudent, and wise. From the back, she was solid black except for thin white markings that curiously formed an oval shape resembling a large eye. A thin tail dragged behind her as she walked.
The Hippocampus shook back and forth causing some members of the Bridge Crew to momentarily lose their footing. The rocking was intermittent, occurring every few minutes.
“Steady,” Captain Mobula said to her Helmsman in a soft voice. “Stay the course.”
“Aye, Captain. The Rose Petal Current is unusually turbulent for some reason. I’ll keep her on course.”
The Rose Petal Current was a major Subspace Current that led back to Republic Territory. The Hippocampus was riding the Current, boosting her speed substantially by doing so and conserving energy at the same time. Strange, red particle formations gave the Rose Petal Current her name, almost as if they were purposely lighting their way.
Captain Mobula thought of her current assignment. She has been called back in order to provide direct feedback regarding the Republic First Cruiser she commanded. Her experience and knowledge of the ship was invaluable. The Republic was in the design stage for construction of a Second Cruiser, which was rumored to improve on the First Cruiser’s deficiencies in many ways. Every Captain has been recalled to provide their own unique perspective on the First Cruiser. Captain Mobula was looking forward to seeing fellow Captains she has not seen in a long time.
A Subspace Eddy trapped the Hippocampus on the first leg of their journey home. They forced their way out of it by going to maximum warp and using all of their reserve power. Still, it caused a delay in their arrival. That particular Subspace Eddy was new and uncharted. The Hippocampus made a clear note of it so that future starships can steer clear of it.
“Captain, we’ve entered the base of Victoria Falls. I’m heading up her now.”
The Hippocampus shook violently, but this was different sort of shaking than that caused by the Rose Petal Current. It was more of a constant, slow grind. The Hippocampus’ forward progress slowed to a crawl, despite running her engines hot at maximum warp.
Victoria Falls was a monstrous Subspace Waterfall that made a Starbase Siege nearly impossible. Those caught in its powerful current who were unprepared were swept away with no hope of recovering their position. Attackers intent on doing harm found themselves fighting an uphill battle at a snail’s pace, making them sitting sitting targets for defensive fire.
But to Captain Mobula and her Crew, Victoria Falls was a symbol of home. Joy and excitement filled the Bridge as they enjoyed their slow ascent. Dozens of small space salmon jumped forward despite the fierce resistance. Captain Mobula smiled.
And then she came into view at the apex. Their destination where all the Republic Captains would be meeting. It was a bastion of security and safety for all who took refuge behind her walls.
Surrounded by impenetrable Dark Matter Mountains, she has never fallen to siege, despite countless attempts by the Regime.
The Key to the Republic, they called her.
STARBASE DOVER.
