Chapter 161

Athena

Making his way to the bridge, the Colonel was certain it must be an incoming message from the SGC. Perhaps they wanted to alter the testing timetable? As he rounded the corner and entered the bridge, Eckhart saw an unexpected site. Standing several feet in front of the commander's chair was the holographic image of an Asgard. The moment Eckhart took his seat the hologram began to speak.

"Greetings Colonel, I am Penegal of the Asgard High Council." Penegal in hologram form began.

"What can I do for you today Penegal?" Eckhart asked.

"Four hours ago one of our vessels was stolen by the Vanir. The vessel is named Hala, and it is an advanced prototype far stronger than our current O'Neill class of sh.i.p.s. After this communication ends I will transmit the technical specifications to you." Penegal explained.

"Forgive my ignorance, but what does this have to do with my ship?" Eckhart asked.

"Sensor data from the location your people refer to as the November site shows the Hala at the far edge of your galaxy. This information will of course be provided to you as well. On behalf of the Asgard people I stand before you to ask that you stop the Vanir, and if necessary destroy the Hala." Penegal stated formally.

"Destroy the vessel? If it's stronger than an O'Neill, what makes you think we can stop it?" Eckhart asked calmly.

"The Asgard are aware of the device your vessel is equipped with for testing purposes. We believe this will give you an advantage over your adversary and allow you to overcome the capabilities of the Hala." Penegal replied.

"Penegal, I will report this matter to the SGC and proceed from there." Eckhart stated, unsure of how the answer would be received.

"The SGC is aware of the matter, and has already taken steps to intercept the vessel. These efforts failed. You are our last and best hope." Penegal stated, matter-of-factly.

Seconds later, the hologram of Penegal evaporated into nothing. As promised, the technical specifications of the Hala arrived soon after. Looking over the specs, Eckhart was unsure of the Athena's ability to combat the new threat. Plugging the tracking data forwarded from the November site into the navigational computer, Eckhart saw that they could indeed intercept the vessel if the Athena's hyper drive was operated at maximum output using the zpm's, but just barely.

"Incoming subspace message Colonel." Captain Branford, the communications officer stated.

"Put it on screen." Eckhart ordered.

Appearing in the air before the bridge was a holographic display screen. On that screen, clearly seen by all on the bridge, was General Landry. The moment the message was connected; Landry began speaking not wanting to waste a precious second of time.

"Colonel Eckhart, I have a priority tasking for you." Landry began.

"The Asgard just contacted us General. We're aware of the mission, and have the specs of the target as well as tracking data." Eckhart answered.

"Good, now let me give you the information you don't have in front of you. The Tria was near the location where Hala inexplicably dropped out of hyperspace. We diverted her to intercept, and it went badly. As we speak, other vessels are being diverted to assist her to Arkos, but she is venting atmosphere and is essentially crippled." Landry stated angrily.

"Sir, are you saying that this thing smoked an Aurora?" Eckhart asked in a concerned tone.

"You are in command of the flagship of the fleet Colonel. If anyone can stop the Hala it is you. Use the advantages at your disposal and make this happen. Contact us when you are mission complete, Landry out." Landry finished.

"Based on our maximum sustained speed Colonel, if we don't leave in the next minute interception of the target will be impossible." The navigation officer explained.

Looking at the data display to the left of the command chair, many thoughts ran through the Colonels mind. This thing crippled an Aurora! Weighing the pros and cons for a moment, Eckhart tapped his radio earpiece.

"Doctor Lee, this is Colonel Eckhart. Activate the Arcturus device now." Eckhart ordered.