On 7 August 2389, The Romulan Task Group launched the invasion by bombing Starbase 185, the Federation symbol in the gateway to the Beta Quadrant. In spite of Romulan saber-rattling, the Federation did not have its forces on alert, and was caught unaware.
Further Romulan Ships have infiltrated the Federation border first to prepare for the major units which began the attack at the stroke of midnight. The Romulan attack had two prongs, with the primary attack force driving south straight for Starbase 185 down the Neutral Zone corridor, and a supporting attack entering Federation farther into Phoenix Federation, but then turning and driving due east, cutting off the Starbase from the rest of the Alpha Quadrant.
The commander of a Federation Task Group, the 185 A, deployed them against the Romulan attack and was able to conduct a robust defense near Governor's Station.
Starfleet Command scrambled to meet the invading force, but approximately 20% were lost or captured. An space battle with the Romulan forces was fought over Starbase, inflicting heavy losses on the Federation forces.
The Romulans have now detained several diplomats, with video footage shown on Romulan Networks.
The regional Praetor has appeared on state television with diplomat hostages to whom he had refused exit visas.
In the video, he patted a small Wells City, Phoenix Federation boy named Jonathan Wells on the back. The Romulan then asks, through his interpreter, whether Wells is getting his milk.
The Praetor went on to say, "We hope your presence as guests here will not be for too long. Your presence here, and in other places, is meant to prevent the scourge of war. The Federation has one option. Release what was stolen by the Romulans or watch their precious starbase be destroyed."
ONN sources confirm that Captain Alexander Paige and Captain Dominic Montgomery have approached the Phoenix Federation for assistance. The move is now being mulled over by the leadership of the Phoenix Federation.
To attack the Romulans would be a very difficult decision. The one known benefit, confirmed by Commander T'Ros is the Romulan Task Group is also acting without the Romulan Empire support. The empire is supportive of the action but not prepared to risk an all out war with the Federation.
Responding to the Federation request would leave the Phoenix Federation, the Phoenix Colony and the Phoenix Fleet and its three task groups in a very prominent negotiating position. This is a giant leap in the long term health of the Federation.
Are they ready to take that step? Only time will tell.
Posted by:
Christine T'Nley
Omega News Network
Phoenix Colony
Phoenix Federation
