The Mercy of Shadows [Backpost]

Posted on Fri Sep 11th, 2026 @ 9:14am by Lord Typhoeus & Lieutenant Eldan 3 & Skiron
Edited on on Fri Sep 11th, 2026 @ 9:15am

930 words; about a 5 minute read

Mission: UnderMind [4]
Location: Typhoeus' Pyramid - New Ischia, Dreizhen III
Timeline: After 'Shadows of the Horizon'

Skiron had invited Lieutenant Eldan to join him on his tel'tak transport for the trip back to New Ischia. It landed on the upper third of the pyramid, and the Vizier led the young Starfleet officer through the halls until they reached the Regent's chamber, passing by many dragonguard who looked upon the Vorta with suspicion visible even through their dragon-faced helms.

The chamber was dark and oppressive, a long narrow room bordered on each side by what appeared to be lava flows (but was far too cool in temperature to be real) as well as dragon-headed statues of pharaohs and serpents, and repetitions of the five-headed dragon motif, sigil of the Harcesis-King Typhoeus, only son of Typhon. At the end of the mosaic-tiled walkway was a raised dais with the young Regent in his chair, flanked by burning braziers and Elite Dragonguard in even more detailed helms.

"You return with a guest, my vizier. Explain." Typhoeus called out across the room in a deep Goa'uld voice. Despite his apparent lack of a symbiote, his harcesis abilities had obviously allowed him to master the affectation.

"This is Lieutenant Eldan, my Lord. He comes to ask your favour on behalf of the Federation." Skiron explained in his own booming Goa'uld timbre.

"Does he speak?" Typhoeus said of the young Vorta.

Eldan squinted across the chamber. It was difficult for him to see that far away. So, clearing his throat, he moved toward the man. "I do speak, my lord," he said with a bow. "I have an issue of great importance to both our peoples "

"You probably hear that a lot," he added. "A man in your position. This time, it is true. If you will allow me to explain?"

"Very well. Explain." Typhoeus said, relaxed but immobile on his throne.

"The Federation, as you are no doubt aware, is in a conflict. No, that is a euphemism; we are at war at Shitau. If the Universe smiles on us we'll have victory. Eventually. At the cost of too many lives."

"If we are unable to contain the forces there, they will be emboldened and strike out. They will become a threat, even to an army as large and powerful as you.

"We need help, sir. Help your army can give."

"We need your aid. Will you help us? Or at least consider helping us?"

"You give me too much credit, Lieutenant. I know of no conflict. The monks of Shitau have proven sullen and uninterested in our diplomatic overtures. Who is this enemy of which you speak? And how could we expect to turn the tide of a war when your mighty Federation cannot?" Typhoeus asked.

"Even the Federation is not all-powerful," Eldan responded. "They- we wouldn't be where we are today if we didn't know when to ask for help."

"I would add that the threat is real, and these insectoid creatures' threat goes beyond the Federation; they will affect your people too."

"They are highly aggressive and territorial, and they want to expand that territory. They are warp-capable, and they are threatening Deep Space 13. If we are unable to hold them back, then they, as Terrans would say, will be knocking on your door."

"Insectoids. I believe we may have encountered the creatures of which you speak. Black and yellow, with red stripes? Limbs like blades?" Typhoeus asked.

"Yes, that is precisely what they look like from what I've been told. I have not seen one myself, however. It seems as though you have."

"They took some of my scouts over the last few weeks. My Jaffa have been instructed to avoid their hunting grounds. Brutal creatures." Typhoeus concurred. "While we remain grateful for everything the Federation has done for us, any sacrifice of my warriors would be costly. I would hope that there could be certain concessions for such an agreement?"

Eldan kept his expression and tone neutral.

"The Federation recognizes the danger to you and your people, and the sacrifice it might create. We are willing to negotiate. What would you consider fair compensation or concessions?"

"You still have my father's Ha'tak in your custody. I understand much of its technology has been removed. It would still be a potent symbol of power to my Jaffa. Even if it were simply to remain in orbit as a potential escape vector for my people in the event we should face attack, I would consider this adequate recompense for our assistance." Typhoeus proposed.

Eldan breathed through his nose. "That is not an entirely unreasonable request," he said. If you are asking for its outright release, I don't think I have authority to do that. But I understand the symbolism and its importance. At the very least, I believe I can arrange to have it in high orbit so you can gain face."

"And if the situation warrants it, you should be able to use it to escape if it becomes necessary. Is that acceptable?"

"I believe this is a fair compromise," Typhoeus said with a languid nod. "There are few I would trust at their word, but your Federation has been good to us. I will arrange for forces to be dispatched as soon as they are ready. It may not be quick; other than the few Jaffa guarding this pyramid and patrolling the city, most have been released from service in my army."

"I believe we have reached an acceptable agreement," the Vorta said. "I will bid you farewell."

"Farewell, Lieutenant. May the Aten guide you." Typhoeus gestured subtly to his Vizier to escort the Vorta out.

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