Chapter 206 (1/2)

Pegasus Galaxy

Sensor data recovered from the flight data recorder of the Leonidas had been poured over by both Colonel Carter, and McKay on board Borealis. During the data review, the avatar of the city ship had confirmed the hypothesis about ship vulnerabilities to the newly encountered weapons systems aboard the Harbingers vessel. Another question answered though unasked, was that it was this new enemy that had long ago brought about the near destruction of Borealis.

The destruction of the Leonidas demanded a response, and it was coming in the form of a trap. Realizing that it was far too obvious if a Tauri, Asgard, or Ori vessel was used as bait, it was suggested that a Traveler ship be used. Despite being allies, use of this ship had come at a price. Hammering out the details for Earth had been Richard Woolsey. In the end, it had come at an incredibly high price. Intergalactic hyper drive technology, albeit a generations old Asgard design, repair and refit of the aging Traveler fleet at Arkos, and a safe haven planet in the Milky Way had finally been agreed to. All this brought us to the here and now.

Sitting in dead space, in the void between solar systems, was a lone Traveler generational ship. Throwing caution to the wind, this ship began transmitting a distress message on all frequencies, indicating that the ship was crippled and had three hundred souls aboard. It was hoped this would present a juicy enough target to lure the Wraith out.

One hundred and eight thousand kilometers from the broadcasting Traveler ship sat the Ares and Athena, under cloak. A second's long hyperspace jump away, waited the Hala. Closer in towards the bait sat one hundred and twenty F-302's under cloak, the combined fighter strength of both Ares and Athena.

”Incoming subspace data burst from Borealis sir.” The communications officer announced.

”What's the word?” Colonel Sheppard asked lightly.

”Message reads; Baits taken. Three hives and nine cruisers inbound. Estimated time of arrival is twenty four minutes.” The communications officer stated.

”One thing about Sudoku books, they are great to pass the time. Good for nerves also, in case anyone was wondering.” Sheppard announced to his bridge crew.

On both Ares and Athena, tensions were high. Fear did not sit in the pit of anyone present's stomach. Instead, their emotions simmered for vengeance, to find retribution for their fallen comrades. Like the quiet professionals that they were, the crewmembers of both Tauri capital sh.i.p.s did their duties while steeling themselves for the fray to come. From the bridge of Athena, a string of communications was flowing in multiple directions.

”Communications officer, send data burst to all 302's with assignments. They are to remain in individual ten ship formations under cloak. Their point of aim on assigned target vessels is the hyperspace window generator at the stern. Once they are mission complete, they are act as gate stopper for any Darts that attempt to pursue the Traveler ship.” Colonel Eckhart ordered.

”On the way now, sir.” Athena's communication officer replied.

”Let's also make sure Thor is aware of the timing we're going to need for this.” Eckhart suggested.

”Supreme Commander Thor has already confirmed receipt of instructions.” The junior communications officer answered.

”Moments like these make me really missing smoking.” Eckhart sighed.

”Incoming message from Katana Labrea on the bait ship Colonel.” The suddenly very busy communications announced.

”Put it on the display.” Eckhart instructed.

Seconds later the holographic display screen came to life. On it was the Traveler ship commander.

”We're ready to go on this end Colonel.” Katana explained.