The ensigns looked at each other in muddled confusion. The "briefing" they had been ordered to attend before their watch had quickly devolved to a melee as combat-seasoned marines stormed into the CIC.

Unfortunately for the shocked ensigns, even if the marines had not had the twin advantages of strength and total surprise, the ensigns' belated attempt to fight off their attackers was doomed from the start. As the ensigns grappled with the stronger marines, they were--literally--stung by the unexpected betrayal of their CIC comrades attacking from behind. Unable to free themselves from the iron grips of the marines, the ensigns yelled and pleaded frantically as their shirts were shredded and strange clammy squirmy things were pressed against their spines.

The din of close quarters combat transformed almost immediately into an eerie silence as the ensigns' struggles abruptly ceased. Adding to the overwhelmed ensigns' confusion, they were surprised when the marines gently lowered them to their knees. As they kneeled, the ensigns' faces reflected their desperate--but fading--struggles to maintain control of their bodies. Then, one by one, the ensigns realized that kneeling was the perfect way to signal their proper role as slaves of the parasites. As their eyes flashed and their confusion about what was happening evaporated, so did all of their doubts about what must happen next.

The "briefing" had ended. They had received their new orders: All of the crew--and then all of humanity--must serve the parasites.

----------------

The Electrician's Mate looked at his fellow sailors in confusion. They had been called on the double to upgrade a key system, but when they arrived to the flagship's bridge they found it swarming with heavily-armed marines. When they identified themselves and asked for access to the system console, the marines led them to a side alcove under tight guard. Forced roughly to their knees, the sailors protested and called out for an explanation.

Moments later, their new alien parasite masters provided the only explanation necessary: They would now follow the parasites' commands... and spread their control.