Banfield was enjoying the flight from the Triton to inside the asteroid that T’Liana had chosen for them to explore first. Sat at the starboard aft science station, Banfield was taking in the readings the Delta-class runabout was feeding back to them. Besides her, in the port station, was T’Liana. Her Vulcan chief science officer focused entirely on her readings, too. Instead of missing the view, Banfield watched the scenery as they flew through it.

“Breathtaking, isn’t it?” Nicus said from the station behind T’Liana.

“It is,” Banfield agreed with a nod. 

“We’re approaching the baby island,” CJ announced from the helm. 

Banfield gazed down at the forward section of the cockpit, where her senior most pilot sat at the controls. Next to him, sitting on the small stool to his left, was Tharmas. Tharmas was reviewing the runabout’s systems.

“The Calliste’s systems are all good to go in,” The operations officer announced.

Acknowledging their updates, Banfield ordered them to go ahead and move into the asteroid.

The Calliste glided smoothly through the asteroid’s narrow entryway, its hull reflecting the kaleidoscope of colours emanating from the surrounding energy fields. 

Banfield sat poised and alert, her sharp gaze taking in every detail as they ventured deeper into the unknown. 

As the Calliste ventured deeper into the asteroid’s interior, the crew was greeted by a dramatic expansion of space, revealing a breathtaking scenery that momentarily left them speechless. The cavern walls were adorned with intricate patterns of luminescent flora, casting a soft glow that danced across the rocky surfaces. Tendrils of energy gracefully arced between crystalline structures, creating a pulsating web of light that seemed to echo a heartbeat.

“Remarkable,” CJ breathed from the pilot’s seat, his wide eyes reflecting the vibrant hues surrounding them. The Merp’s usually composed demeanour while on duty was replaced by sheer wonder as he guided the vessel through the labyrinthine expanse.

Doctor Nicus leaned forward, his reptilian features illuminated by the ambient light. The Saurian’s nostrils flared slightly as he took in the scene, his scientific mind already analysing the myriad of data their sensors were collecting. “The energy signatures are highly organised,” he noted, his deep voice resonating through the cockpit. “They are far more structured than the initial readings aboard the Triton. This level of complexity suggests the presence of sentient life forms.”

In front of him, T’Liana’s Vulcan features remained impassive, though her eyes betrayed a keen interest as she scrutinised the data scrolling across her console. “The neurogenic field density has increased exponentially,” she confirmed. “It is consistent with known patterns of conscious thought processes. I would go as far as to say it is a collective consciousness, but not like Borg’s hive mind, which has almost one voice and one strain of thought. These readings indicate that they are almost independent from one another but work together. It is similar to telepathy, but on some levels, it is not. It is… fascinating.”

Banfield’s lips curved into a slight smile, a hint of her Klingon pride surfacing at the prospect of a new discovery. “This could be an interesting finding for us; we need to know more. How did it form? Is it just linked to the lifeforms here, or is it all connected with these asteroids or even The Veil itself? Are those Space Rays we encountered earlier connected in any way, too? There’s so many questions to answer!” she stated, her voice demonstrating her keenness. CJ, bring us closer to the field. Let’s see what else we can uncover.”

“Aye, Captain,” CJ replied, deftly adjusting their trajectory. The Calliste responded smoothly, manoeuvring through the supernatural landscape with practised ease.

As they delved deeper, the ambient light intensified, and the patterns of energy became increasingly intricate, weaving together in elaborate formations that seemed almost deliberate in design. If they had not entered an asteroid, it looked nearly like they were moving through a deep ocean teeming with life of all kinds. Everything had its place. Everything had its reason for living. Everything appeared to support each other. 

Suddenly, a series of alerts chimed across the control panels. Tharmas quickly scanned the incoming data. “Captain, sensors are detecting an energy barrier directly ahead. Composition is unusual.”

“All stop,” Banfield ordered immediately, her instincts urging caution. She didn’t want them to run into something and then needed to be rescued by the Triton. Banfield wanted to take this discovery one step at a time. They were dealing with discoveries that were most unusual, and each one of them could bring with them a sense of danger to their lives. She wasn’t going to risk it for her own curiosity. 

The runabout decelerated smoothly, coming to a halt a safe distance from the shimmering obstruction that now dominated their forward view. The barrier was a mesmerising sight—a translucent, undulating blanket of light that spanned the width of the cavern. Its surface rippled with waves of colour, shifting and blending in a hypnotic dance that hinted at immense power and sophistication.

T’Liana’s fingers flew over her console as she initiated a detailed scan. “Preliminary analysis indicates a stable atmosphere exists beyond the barrier,” she conveyed.  “Composition is breathable and within safe parameters for humanoid life.”

Tharmas continued his own assessment; his expression was thoughtful. “Structural integrity of the barrier is sufficient to allow passage without causing harm to the Calliste. It appears to function more like a controlled gateway than a defensive shield. However, I wouldn’t want to stand on the other side, not wearing an E-V-A suit, in case the barrier suddenly drops without warning. I can’t determine how it is being formed or maintained. It is natural, though.”

Banfield considered the information, her mind weighing the risks and benefits with calculated precision. Part of her relished the challenge and the opportunity for discovery. At the same time, her other side urged restraint and a methodical approach—a balance she had mastered over many years of being in Starfleet. “Proceeding without proper reconnaissance would be unwise,” she concluded. “T’Liana, deploy a micro-probe through the barrier. Let’s gather more data before moving forward.”

“Understood, Captain,” T’Liana responded, executing the command with practised efficiency. A moment later, a small, sleek probe launched from the Calliste, streaking toward the barrier. Upon contact, the probe passed through effortlessly, disappearing into the luminescent fog beyond.

The crew waited in tense silence as data streamed back from the probe. 

T’Liana’s eyes scanned the readings intently. “The probe has successfully traversed the barrier,” she confirmed. “All systems are functioning within normal parameters. No anomalies were detected. The probe is transmitting data from the other side. It is safe to proceed, ma’am.”

Satisfied with that news, Banfield gave a curt nod. “Very well. CJ, take us through—slow and steady. Thrusters only. Tharmas full power to shields and the deflector.”

“Shields and deflector are at maximum,” Tharmas confirmed. 

CJ’s hands moved confidently over the controls. “Taking us in, Captain, thrusters only.”

The Calliste advanced toward the barrier, its forward lights illuminating the path ahead. A gentle ripple cascaded across the barrier’s surface as they made contact, enveloping the Delta-class runabout in a downpour of light. For a brief moment, the cockpit was flooded with numerous spells of light, and then they were through. Their journey almost seemed long, but it wasn’t. 

On the other side, the sight that greeted them was nothing short of more amazement. They had entered a vast, domed chamber filled with lush, otherworldly vegetation. Towering plants with translucent leaves reached upward, their surfaces pulsating with vibrant energy. Delicate tendrils floated through the air, emitting soft chimes that mingled to create a hauntingly beautiful melody. The ground below was covered in a carpet of iridescent moss that seemed to glow from within, casting a serene ambience throughout the space.

“This is incredible,” CJ whispered, his voice filled with genuine wonder. Everything was impressing him today. “It’s like an entire ecosystem thriving inside an asteroid.”

Doctor Nicus’ eyes darted across his readings; his excitement was evident. “The biodiversity here is astounding. These organisms are not only surviving but flourishing in conditions that would be hostile to most known life forms. I cannot determine how yet.”

A sudden series of beeps drew Tharmas’ attention back to his console. He adjusted a few settings, his expression shifting from curiosity to intrigue. “Captain, I’m picking up an audio frequency through our communication array. It’s… unique.”

Banfield tilted her head slightly, listening as Tharmas patched the sound through the cockpit speakers. A soft, melodic series of tones filled the air, weaving together in a harmonious pattern.

“It’s like a song,” CJ observed, a smile spreading across his face as he attempted to hum along. 

His attempt was enthusiastic but decidedly off-key, eliciting a chuckle from Tharmas. “Stick to flying, CJ,” Tharmas teased, his eyes glinting with amusement. “Your musical talents leave much to be desired, my friend.”

CJ faked offence, placing a hand over his heart dramatically. “You wound me, Tharmas. I thought we were friends, and for your information, I happen to have a degree in interstellar harmonics.”

“Must have been an honorary degree,” Tharmas shot back, grinning.

Banfield allowed herself a small smile at their banter, appreciating the lightness amidst the unknown. Yet, her focus remained sharp, attuned to the slightest change in their surroundings.

“The source of the song appears to be emanating from deeper within the chamber,” T’Liana interjected, her tone as measured as ever. “It corresponds with the strongest concentration of the neurogenic field.”

“Then that’s where we’re headed,” Banfield affirmed. “CJ, proceed cautiously. Maintain sensor sweeps and be prepared for any anomalies.”

“Aye, Captain,” CJ responded, guiding the Calliste further into the chamber. 

The vessel moved slowly, carefully navigating around the dense clusters of vegetation and energy formations that dotted their path. As they advanced, the melody grew richer, layers of sound intertwining in an intricate symphony that seemed almost alive.

After several minutes, a structure emerged ahead—a majestic formation that appeared both natural and constructed. It resembled a cathedral of light, with towering arches formed from intertwining vines and crystalline pillars that refracted the surrounding glow into a spectrum of colours—at the centre stood a raised dais, its surface shimmering with a concentrated pool of energy that pulsed in harmony with the song.

Before Banfield could issue her next command, a sudden surge of light erupted from the dais, enveloping the cockpit in a brilliant flash. The crew shielded their eyes instinctively, alarms chiming briefly before subsiding as the light dissipated.

When they looked up, a figure stood before them.

The being was tall and slender, exuding a ghostly presence that immediately captivated the crew’s attention. Its skin was a tapestry of luminescent hues, shifting and flowing like liquid light across a smooth, almost translucent surface. Delicate, elongated limbs moved with graceful fluidity, and its eyes—large and multifaceted—shimmered with depths of colour that seemed to hold the secrets of the cosmos. Intricate patterns adorned its form, glowing symbols that pulsed in rhythm with the surrounding energy fields. 

For a moment, the cockpit was silent, each member of the away team processing the sudden appearance of this extraordinary being. Banfield felt a surge of adrenaline, her Klingon instincts urging readiness, but her scientific curiosity and Starfleet training kept her composed.

The alien tilted its head slightly, observing them with what appeared to be gentle curiosity. Then, it spoke in a voice that resonated both audibly and within their minds.

“Greetings, travellers,” the being said, its tone melodic and soothing. “Welcome to our sanctuary.”

Banfield exchanged a brief glance with T’Liana, whose eyebrows had risen ever so slightly in typical Vulcan fashion. Doctor Nicus’s eyes were wide, clearly fascinated, while CJ and Tharmas looked both amazed and cautious.

Stepping forward, Banfield met the being’s gaze directly, her posture respectful yet authoritative. 

“I am Captain Corella Banfield of the Federation starship Triton,” she began, her voice clear and steady. “We come in peace and with a desire for understanding and mutual respect. May we know who you are?”

The being’s eyes seemed to brighten at her words, and the patterns across its skin shifted into new configurations, glowing softly. “We are the Ilumirians,” it replied. “Custodians and children of this place you and others call the Veil. Your presence here is unexpected but not unwelcome.”

A wave of relief and excitement washed over Banfield. First contact with a new species was a profound moment that held endless possibilities for knowledge. She could feel the same anticipation mirrored in her crew.

“It is an honour to meet you,” Banfield responded sincerely. “We have journeyed here seeking to learn and explore. Your home is truly extraordinary.”

The Ilumirian extended a slender hand, its fingers tapering into delicate points that glowed softly. “There is much to share and much to discover. Come, let us converse and exchange wisdom.”

As the Ilumirian spoke, the melodic song that had guided them intensified slightly, enveloping the Calliste in a harmonious embrace. Banfield felt a profound sense of connection and possibility; her human curiosity and Klingon spirit united in eager anticipation of what lay ahead. It was very hypnotic. 

Turning to her crew, Banfield saw the same spark of excitement and wonder in their eyes. Nodding firmly, she returned her gaze to their guest. “We look forward to it,” Banfield said, smiling. “Lead the way.”

First contact had just begun, and Banfield couldn’t believe what a first contact it would be. She just knew she had to remember to see if these beings knew a way out of The Veil. Otherwise, this first contact would be her last contact.