4.5 Celestial Mary

[Magellan Lin]

Like a puppet with one string broken the ship careened out of the nebula. Tendrils of nebula gas snagged on its nacelles left bright trails as it entered normal space dissapating like vapour trails behind it. Thin and needle like the ship was sleek and without functional design. Its hull contained superflous features, viewing galleries and and wide airlocks. It was designed to impress.

Within, the lights behind the glass seemed to flicker creating an additional field of stars, a galaxy within a galaxy. The running lights were consistent and flashed regularly and reassuringly. There was not a single blemish or mark on the length of its hull, the ship could have been made yesterday.

Inside, Lights flashed amid the clean clear air. A faint hiss issued from the vents and the main strip lighting flickered intermittently. The subtle imprints of a boot remained in the pile of the thick mauve carpet that lined the corridors deck. The paint on the walls was as fresh as the day it was applied, a cool crisp blue counter posed with the gleaming steel hand rail that ran at waist height and the simple black LCARS interfaces at each junction.

The bridge whilst small was neatly laid out and the lights on the consoles flicked on and off as if some unseen hand were at the helm. If someone were to be sat at the helm or even the vacant Captains chair they could see from through the Viewscreen the slowly approaching shape of a planet. The orange disc illuminated by the large sun several AU's distant was partly occluded by a small dark shape. A mushroom with an elongated stem many would call the base a port in a storm, others home. For this ship perhaps it was salvation.

***

All throughout the Arcade hung the simple lanterns of mourning. Debrune stood in small groups beneath the simple candle lit frames at the Holy hour and remembered the Divine Child. It had been 6 days since his sudden death and most were still in shock. The Debrune had abandoned much of their religion during their long period of self imposed exile but they had rediscovered it with great ambition when Jak'Dor had found the Divine Child D'Beren and used him to unite the warring factions. The child as prophesised had brought peace to the Debrune, but he had never fulfilled his greater destiny and now many questioned were being raised and with the departure of Kale as High Priest there were few with answers.

Magellan sat with Zoilip in Hishars Restaurant, he watched the passing groups of Debrune and hundred other species. He barely focused on them. His mind whirled with the state of the Colonial War and the unsettling encounter with the Kasan-thar.

A deck down Govan remained in isolation. He sat quietly, his face an unreadble mask. Nicknamed 'The Statue' by the cell guards he intimidated even the Vulcan guards. Who knew what was going through that romulan mind. Vebn did. The shrewd Romulan was a further 18 decks below sat in his office. He had yet to make his play to spring the Tal Shiar agent from the cell. There was no hurry yet and it was a less than subtle way of saying ' I m in control. I can get you out when I want'.

The desk in the next room was empty. Tedak had yet to return to work. He spent his time with T'Val and Dr Mercy in their quarters, consoling and helping, sometimes just sitting. It was company.

Stuart had reassigned much of his workload but still took time to visit Ezedriana in sickbay. She had improved much but either didnt know or refused to say what had happened to her. For now the guards remained and charges of assault still remained he was unsure what the future would hold for.

Tyr visited each day. He brought reports from the Diplomatic Corps and Ezedriana on her better days went through them with him. Otherwise Tyr had assumed the full mantle of Federation diplomatic duties. He mused on the facts as he approached Sickbay once more. His own agenda was being pushed aside, if he were to succeed something would have to change soon.

Further down still, kilometres down on the surface of Qualinost itself Ji'Zahn walked in quiet reflection with Lork and Cra'Mel. The Three elders were being shown the newly planted zones in the northern hemisphere, a great acheivement but none felt like celebrating.

***

Leaning back into his chair Elarus waved his hand,
"Set a new course"
"For?"
"Starbase Assailant, I think its time we went back for awhile"
"I thought the President had issued us leave" Talal queried from Tactical,
"She has" Elarus nodded, "The Galaxy is officially detached from Presidential Security for 3 months. Our time is our own till then."
Talal shrugged,
"I just assumed we'd go to Earth or Risa"
"Never assume Talal. If your to get anywhere in this job Ensign, take nothing for granted. Starbase Assailant will be fine for leave and who knows what else"
"Else?"
Elarus Voran chuckled
"You've never been to Section 47 controlled space have you. You ll soon learn that strange things tend to happen there, Never a dull moment."

[Deleted]

Today had been a good day for Ambassador Ezdreiana's mental state of mind, yesterday hadn't been. The massacre that she had committed in the very sickbay she was now being taken care haunted her everyday. She could see flashes of those actions, but she didn't understand it. She could remember screaming in pain and sorrow when she pressed the trigger, but it didn't matter.

She had been informed by her attache, Tyr, that charges were pending against her. She was not surprised, but she was forever grateful to the man. In a few days he would be a full time member of the DCS and currently he was running it on Assailant. She knew that Tyr had other motives to being there, most likely something to do with Intelligence, but so did everyone else. She was certain that he was working for the same things as she was and that was all she really needed to know at the moment.

"Thank you Tyr, please inform the all DCS Ambassadors to report back to Headquarters," Ezdreiana said as she slowly walked back to her isolated cell in sickbay. She had been told it was for her protection, but she could see the uncertentity in their eyes. They feared that whoever had done this to her could still control her somehow.

"Has anyone informed my son that I'm here?" Ezdreiana asked remembering the conversation that a nurse had about the Tiger Shark arriving at Assailant.

(Tyr- It's up to you. Ezdreiana's son is T'Brel Peers, the CNO of the Nevada)

[Ji' Zhan]

The news of the results of the shuttle crash that took the life of the Debrune holy child shook what was left of the stride the people had made since the days of the crash. The news came just a few hours after the three Elders had returned from their secluded vigil. It seemed, however, to strengthen the purpose of the Debrune to place a firm foot-hold in the sector as a unassailable people.

Ji'Zhan, walking back from his office to his top-side home, was being bothered by all the security that was assigned to him in these times. The unhealthy fear of any outsider had made the protection of the Elders required. In fact most of the Klignon visitors were either told to leave the planet or escorted off the planet to the orbiting star base. It wasn't a decision that the Elders made lightly, however the pressure from the Debune people made it clear that it had to be done. The Elders and the administrative body quickly moved and put the whole force of the Ministry of Defense behind the effort. As the detail made their way to retrieve belongs for the Elder's trip to the base, it would turn out to be only few moments before the shuttle that was to take Ji'Zhan to the star base would call. To soon the landscape diminished beneath them as the shuttle left for the base

--- later ---

Ji'Zhan and his guards stood at the door of T'Val and Stuart and pressed the call button. "Greetings," Ji'Zhan said, "I come in respect for the departed."

<tag the Mercy's>

The group walked over to the sitting area as Ji'Zhan motioned the guards to depart from the group. After the room was empty of all but the three, Ji'Zhan took T'Val's hand as a tear rolled down his face. Dropping his head for a moment to regain, Ji'Zhan asked, "You are putting up a strong face, as are we all, but we must not neglect the memories of this dear one. We must decide the order of the next few days."

<tag T'Val>

[Deleted]

Tyr stalked down the corridors of Assailant leading to sickbay once more, his arms burdened with a dozen different reports and files, all of which had flown into the diplomatic office. Since the death of D'Beren, all hell had broken loose politically, and with Ezdreiana in isolation, he had been forced to undertake the mantle of his false role. It was not so much the workload that annoyed him, but the mindless tedium which plagued this sort of work. Having been trained as a tactical officer, then as an intelligence officer, then spending eight years in the field, he had now been degraded to making political niceties and rubber stamping forms. He had, however, been made aware that it was a choice between a diplomatic attache or a waiter for this assignment, and at least in his present posting he was granted a higher level of quarters.

The meeting in sickbay was short and sweet. He informed Ezdreiana about the charges of attempted murder being brought against her, slightly entertaining given that he had been one of her victims, and then proceeded with a long list of requesitions, reports and overtures. With the Klingons in a state of intergalactic purgatory, they were attempting to make friends with everyone. As the representative in this area, Tyr was ensuring that friendly channels were maintained, for the sake of allies and security if nothing else, and had seen to this by allowing Assailant to continue accepting Klingon trade and personnel. This had led him into a small degree of conflict with the junior Debrune representatives on the station, as well as some of the Romulans. Their new best friends, Tyr thought bitterly to himself as he wlaked the ambassador back to her isolation room.

"Thank you Tyr, please inform the all DCS Ambassadors to report back to Headquarters. Has anyone informed my son that I'm here?" Ezdreiana's sudden speech interrupted Tyr's train of thought.

"Er... I'm not quite sure madame ambassador. Who is your son again?"

<TAG Ezdreiana>

"Oh, I'll see to it personally ambassador. If anything else comes to mind, put in a comm to the office. I should be there for te remains of the day" He smiled and departed.

Walking back onto the promenade, he mused more on te current situation. The last few days had been hectic for all, and so he had not had chance for further conversation with Tedak. This was something he would need to rectify in the near future. He would also need to get down to Qualinost to assess public mood after this catastrophe. However his guise's role must be played to the full, and, with some luck, it might even yield some results. As he arrived on the promenade, one of his young bajoran aides ran up to him.

"Ambassador Tyr, this just came in to the office. It's a formal protest against the presence of a Klingon bird of prey in dock having it's navigational deflectro repaired. It is argued that given recent events, they should no longer be able to dock ships in a Debrune occupied sector" She rattled this off as Retiarius looked complacently about the bustling deck.

"We've been having reports like these all week" he responded "And we have to maintain a neutral position, especially in regards to our allies. Let this get lost in the paperwork with the rest of them" He thought back to the dozen or so "lost" complaints in less than a week.

"But this one is different ambassador. It's been countersigned by Ambassador s'Khellian. It looks like the Romulans are taking sides" She handed him the padd, making the colour visibly drain from Tyr's face.

"I need to consult some people about this Mirya, but you did a really good job in bringing it to me. Get back to the office and make everyone to busy to comment on anything, or to get any complaints sorted out. I'll contact you once this is sorted" He paused mid step "Once you've done that, find out where the USS Tiger Shark comes in and go and meet Commander T'Brel Peers. He's Ambassador Ezdreiana's son, and needs to be taken to her.

He took of at a jog now, tapping his communicator.

"Computer, locate Admiral Lin"

"Admiral Lin is in Hishar's Bolian Restaurant"

"Thank you. Send a communique to the Romulan embassy, ask either Ambassador s'Khellian or Tedak to please attend on me in hHishar's at their earliest possible convenience"

Within a few minutes he arrived at Hishar's, and having nearly knocked a waitress into a fishtank, he found the Admiral along with a Bolian commander. He stepped forwards nervously to introduce himself.

"Hello Admiral Lin. You've not met me before, I'm Ambassador Retiarius Tyr, one of the junior attaches. I've been running the DCS here during Ambassador Ezdreiana's incapacitation"

<TAG Admiral Lin>

"I'm sorry to trouble you sir, but I think you need to see this" He handed him the padd containing the complaint.

<TAG Lin + Tedak/Vebn>

[Magellan Lin]

Magellan looked up from his meal at the unassuming diplomat,

"Ah Mr Tyr, yes Zoilip informed me of your arrival." The Bolian sitting opposite the Admiral gave a curt nod, "Thankyou for what you did in sickbay."

"It was nothing Sir" Retarious replied coyly, "May I" he indicated to a vacant seat,

"Of course of course."

"I should be off." Zoilip said standing and straightening his tunic.

"I ll be up to Ops in a little while" Magellan replied, "Relieve F'Rass, he'll be spitting furballs by now."

Zoilip chuckled and left.

"I m sorry I wasnt here to greet you properly, I was on a delciate mission." Magellan continued. He wound his fork round thin strands of something that would have looked like spaghetti were it not purple, "Its something I will need to brief you on in due course"

"You were on the Nevada" Tyr prompted

"mmm...Yes" Magellan answered swallowing a mouthful and then dabbing his mouth with a napkin, "A sticky situation and it involves why the Tholians have been colonising outside of our space. I m waiting for presidential go ahead before I disseminate the information more widely. I m sure you understand"

Tyr supressed a grin, he reckoned he could get his hands on that information before it even reached the Starbase.

"So Mr Tyr what can I do for you?"

"I m just checking in really, I m handling Ezedreianas workload as you know."

"And very grateful I am for it, but I sense a problem stirring."

"Maybe. With Klingons persona non grata at the moment the number of requests to deny Klingons aid here has increased from the Debrune."

"Thats to be expected" Magellan nodded, "Perhaps I should have a word with Ji'Zahn, this is still a Federation Starbase and we are still allies to the Klingons despite their tactics. Anything else?"

"It maybe nothing. It seems the Romulans are taking advantage of the situation"

"Don't they always" Magellan grunted, "Have you met Tedak, hes our tame Romulan so to speak, he might be a useful asset to talk to."

TAG Tyr

[Deleted]

It was always intriguing how new opportunities turned up when you least expected. Vebn grinned queitly to himself. The revelation that the Klingons had been involved with D'Beren had opened a door to improving relations with the Debrune and perhaps fostering the fledgling reunification movement.

It was still a blow to have lost Kale as an assest on Qualinost but the former High Priest was not the only person in the Debrune Hierarchy that was in favour of an alliance.

Reassured that plans were back on track he decided that he had made Govan stew for long enough. Besides he needed a pet Tal Shiar agent to do some digging.

"Computer contact Ambassador Tyr"

"Ambassador Tyr is not in his office" the aide replied when he got through

"Where might I find him?"

"He was on his way to see Ambassador Ezedrieana and then Admiral Magellan. Can I help?"

Vebn stiffled a scoff, "I very much doubt it."

After visiting sickbay and finding Tyr absent he located Magellan and found the two together in a restaurant.

"Ah I am glad you are both here" he said not allowing either to greet him, "I wish Major Govan Echal to be released."

"Released!!" Magellan exclaimed

"Yes he is my Cheif of Security. He has diplomatic immunity. Obviously the Romulan Government condemns his behaviour and offers its apologies. We will ensure he will be punished. I think you ll find the papers all in order" He handed a PADD to Tyr.

"So assuming you won't object how soon can he be handed over to us?"

TAG Tyr and Magellan

[Deleted]

As was the case with almost every evening these days, the Mercy's were often visited by the Romulan diplomat, T'Val's ex-husband. While his comfort and support was greatly appreciated, T'Val couldn't help but wonder if they'd ever have an evening alone, with just herself and her mate. She sighed as she walked barefoot through their quarters upon the ring of the doorbell; more visitors was the last thing she wanted right now.

A brief look of surprise crossed her face when she saw the Debrune ambassador, Elder Ji'Zhan stand patiently in the doorway. "Elder Ji'Zhan, please come in. What are you doing here?" She stepped aside to let the older man pass.

"Greetings," Ji'Zhan said, "I come in respect for the departed."

"That is appreciated," T'Val replied, as she preceded the Debrune into her living room. Tedak had moved to a different seat to offer Ji'Zhan the old comfortable chair. However the old man didn't seem to even notice him. Exchanging a few glances with the Mercy's, the Romulan thought that perhaps it was time to leave them alone. He would come back in the morning to discuss the funeral arrangements with them. Bidding his goodnights, he nodded politely to Ji'Zhan then departed.

"You are putting up a strong face, as are we all, but we must not neglect the memories of this dear one. We must decide the order of the next few days."

"He will never be forgotten," T'Val promised, "you like no other know how dear my son was to me. I have been the only mother he had known, and I feel his departure only too keenly. It is as if part of myself has gone with him." She smiled sadly. "And your people have lost their object of worship. I know how important he was to the Debrune."

Sitting down beside her mate, she swallowed a few times, forcing back the tears that threatened to appear. She had cried so often she didn't want to cry anymore. "I would really like for him to be buried in the same shrine as his parents were buried. Underground, near where they were first found, if that is agreeable." She paused again. "This would be a private ceremony, and a private shrine. But of course we need a public shrine as well, even though physically he will not be there. But the people need something to visit, to pay their respects and offer their prayers. Do you have suggestions elder?"

The Vulcan woman gazed up at the older Debrune male, her eyes filled with sorrow. Beside her, Stuart reached for her and drew her to him. He nodded in agreement as T'Val offered her own suggestions.

[Ji' Zhan]

It had been sometime from the last conversation that Tedak and Ji'Zhan had as friends. The history that had past in the last year made for strange meetings between the two. Ji'Zhan simply and only telepathically acknowledged the Ambassador in such a way as people in the room may have thought him to not have seen him. It wasn't the time nor place to mend a friendship.

Ji'Zhan attentively heard T'Val's voice, however it didn't seem to be the same voice as it had been. It had the feel of a cool northern wind, not as if it was void of emotion, rather as if the emotion was being suppressed. Her mind too was being sheltered; Ji'Zhan thought that not possible of her but yet was happy that she possessed the control.

T'Val ended her request for a private ceremony by asking Ji'Zhan for his suggestion ... taking the time to think of this request he sat up in his seat and started to speak. "I understand your request and I will grant this. I see no need for the public to crowd your time of saying good-bye. I will arrange that his body be placed with that of his parents, however you must understand that we have to go deep into the underground to reach that destination you request." Ji'Zhan saw the intrigue in both their faces. "The child's parents are laid to rest in a chamber nearest the reaction chamber, a place no soul has seen in centuries. I'm not even sure the passageways still exist." Ji'zhan thought for a moment and recalled the location. He wasn't sure it even was real as he had only read about it in scrolls. "I will have to see to it that this will be possible. Don't worry I will take care of the public ceremony and shrine. As for the the real shrine, we may have to create one if the place where his parents are at rest can not be found."

<tag T'Val>

[Deleted]

"And assuming we will object?"

It was a bold statement from Tyr, and one which broke from the character of his cover, but it was irrelevant as Vebn had made him more or less from the moment of their first encounter.

"He will be released eventually" came the calculated reply.

Retiarius didn't like the situation he was in, but he knew there was no immediate way out of it. He knew of Echal, simply by the reputation he had amassed amongst the operatives of any intelligence service to run afoul of the Romulan government. Men from half a dozen different organisations whom Tyr had worked with over the years had each told different stories, but each with the common thread of what had happened to friends caught in the field by a Tal Shiar Major. Having him released put everyone of the "good guys" at immediate risk, but this would be the problem to be solved on another day. He leaned in to whisper in the Admiral's ear.

"We've got nothing sir. The only way we can continue to detain him is if you forcibly remove his diplomatic immunity, or if we can convince the Romulans to do it for us. Since the latter is unlikely to happen, we are powerless. If we make the Romulan's are enemies, then they will make life a living hell for us, worse than what they are doing now as our allies" He straightened up.

"Having given it some thought ambassador, we have no objection to Major Echal's release" As Vebn turned to leave, Tyr stood up and walked him to the door, out of Lin's earshot.

"Given his status as Chief of Security, I trust the good major's activities will confined to the vicinity around yourself and the embassy. One really should not go wandering the decks at night in these troubled times, all sorts of people are about you know, accidents tend to happen more often that not" The threat was obvious, but just between them. He turned on heel and returned to the admiral.

"Thank you for your time Admiral Lin. I do happen to know Ambassador Tedak, and I will speak to him to resolve this issue. I'll see you at the next base meeting" He smiled and departed for his quarters.

As he arrived at his quarters, Tyr withdrew his left sleeve, and pressed a hidden button on the wrist chronometer he wore before entering. As the door closed behind him, he pressed the button once again. Above the inner side of his door, he had fitted a smoke grenade/flashbang, rigged to a laser sensor. If the sensor was not deactivated before the door was opened, then there would be a lot of noise and smoke, and one very dazed intruder trying to explain himself to the security and fire crews. Sitting down, Tyr tapped his communicator.

"Ambassador Tyr to Ambassador Tedak, would you please join me in my quarters"

He fiddled with the ring he now wore on his right hand. Since the Ezdreiana incident, he had made a point of arming himself, and so had fashioned this ring, containing a miniature version of a cricket style phaser. With it's firing mechanism hidden in a triangular adornment worn on the underside of the hand, it could be activated by the press of a thumb. Regrettably, it's small size comrpromised it's range, and so it lost effective capability over a range greater than about fifteen yards. For home defence, he had constructed something in the manner of a 20th century short barrel pump action shotgun, save that it fired bolts of ionised plasma as opposed to small lead balls. It was at present attached to the underside of his bed with tape, should anyone both him at night.

He mused on the situation over Major Echal. He hated the Romulan government and intelligence services with a vengeance, and the idea of a Tal Shiar torturer being on the loose both scared and infuriated him. As he had made an enemy of Vebn, he was undoubtedly already ona blacklist, and so could expect a great deal of unpleasantness in the near future. A pre-emptive strike seemed the most logical choice, but how to do it was the question. If it was to be a hit, Tyr would feel more re-assured if he did it himself, simply to ensure that the job was done. Weapons were to overt, and there was no place for sniping on a starbase. A shuttle crash or a bomb seemed the most sensible ideas, but then there remained the ever present danger of civilian involvement. The only really safe place to bomb would be the Romulan Embassy, where Tyr was certain he would not have any deaths on his conscience. But then there was the risk that the Klingons might be blamed...

His thoughts were interrupted by a chime at the door. Pressing his watch to disarm the grenade, Tyr opened the door, granting Tedak entrance.

"Good morning ambassador. Something to drink?" the question was rhetorical, as he proceeded to order two glasses of water from the replicator, handing one to Tedak.

"I realise how difficult this time must be for you, and i regret having to call on you for assistance, but I need some help" He handed Tedak the padd from his meeting with Lin.
"As it is you who liases between the Romulans and the Debrune, I was wondering if you could exert a moderating influence. The regrettable death of your son has aroused strong anti-Klingon sentiments, and we are being put in an increasingly difficult position"

<TAG Tedak>

"I know, I know" Tyr put up his hands in a show of innocence "Their feelings are well justified, and I do not begrudge them that. It is when the Romulans start taking advantage of the situation that I begin to get worried. With all this anger, it would be very easy for someone in the Hierarachy to direct it into something constructive, namely reunification"

<TAG Tedak>

"Have you had chance to look at the list of suspects I gave you as well?"

<TAG Tedak>

Tyr nodded as he listened to Tedak.

"Well I can see that I've taken up enough of your time. Please convey the regrets of both myself and all the DCS staff to the Mercy's, and to yourself as well. By the way" He interjected just as Tedak was about to leave "You're getting a new chief of security for the Romulan Embassy, an associate of your former business I'm led to believe. If you could through friends and contacts botain his official, or more to the point unofficial record, I woudl be very grateful"

<TAG Tedak>

[Deleted]

I realise how difficult this time must be for you, and i regret having to call on you for assistance, but I need some help" He handed Tedak the padd from his meeting with Lin.
"As it is you who liases between the Romulans and the Debrune, I was wondering if you could exert a moderating influence. The regrettable death of your son has aroused strong anti-Klingon sentiments, and we are being put in an increasingly difficult position"

Tedak nodded thoughtfully then sipped his water. "Indeed, especially since the crash was no accident, even if the target was the pilot and not my son. However, they could easily claim that they were made to do it. That the Federation drove them to it."

"I know, I know" Tyr put up his hands in a show of innocence "Their feelings are well justified, and I do not begrudge them that. It is when the Romulans start taking advantage of the situation that I begin to get worried. With all this anger, it would be very easy for someone in the Hierarachy to direct it into something constructive, namely reunification"

The Romulan bristled a being accused his people taking advantage of their current situation, but otherwise said nothing. "The Debrune will never reunify with the Romulan people," Tedak answered shortly, "they have made that abundantly clear in the past."

"Have you had chance to look at the list of suspects I gave you as well?"

"No, I haven't." Tedak again sipped his drink, then set aside the glass. "when would I have had time to review it? I will review it when I arrive at my office after our meeting, then let you know what I think of it."

"Well I can see that I've taken up enough of your time. Please convey the regrets of both myself and all the DCS staff to the Mercy's, and to yourself as well. By the way" He interjected just as Tedak was about to leave "You're getting a new chief of security for the Romulan Embassy, an associate of your former business I'm led to believe. If you could through friends and contacts obtain his official, or more to the point unofficial record, I would be very grateful"

Tedak was already halfway to the door when he froze in his tracks. "An associate of my former business?" He raised an eyebrow in surprise. "And who would that be? I didn't know we were getting a security chief. However I shall endeavour to meet up with him. Thank you for your time ambassador."

The Romulan marched out of the Betazoid's quarters and went straight to his office, where to his surprise his way was blocked by a stoic looking Romulan. "Nelon!" the diplomat called, then waited for the aide to appear. "Please tell this guard that he's blocking the entrance to my office." Nelon quietly complied, then disappeared back to his own desk. "Well?" Tedak tapped his foot impatiently, crossing his arms across his chest. "I doubt you'll like it if I bodily move you from my doorway. I have work to do, and you're delaying it."

<govan?>

[Felix Savali]

It has been a long time since he last set foot on the Starbase orbiting Qualinost. He had been... other wisely engaged and the transfer order was flagged as an utmost urgency and therefore forced him to depart without even getting a chance to say goodbye to the people he had become acquainted with on the base. But such is life one could say... unexpected things happen all the time and one cannot spend his days contemplating or regretting his actions or inactions.

Well at least he got his daughter back from that she-devil ex-wife of his before something happened to her. What was that woman thinking, taking his daughter with her on crazy space travels when she could be safe on a Starbase within federation territory. It had not been easy getting her back from the clutches of that devil ex wife... but fortunately some people owed him favors and through the mediation of Ambassador Saarok they were able to snatch his daughter and save her life in the last minute... For she had been infected by a rare disease which was fortunately encountered by certain... people before and a cure was developed. And in the place of his daughter an empty shell was placed...

But that was all in the past. HIs wife thought his daughter was dead... and it was going to remain that way. After saying by to his baby girl he sent her off with her nanny who was to take her to activities that were organized for girls her age while he took care of the important matters. He wanted to see Joana... but that too had to wait.

=/\=Lily... what is the current location of Admiral Magellan Lin=/\=

=/\=Admiral Lin is at Hishar's Bolian restaurant=/\=

=/\=Thank you=/\=

Felix said as he found out the location of the admiral. After proceeding towards the nearest personnel transport, he descended down to the promenade from where he would be able to easily reach the Bolian restaurant the admiral so regularly chose to visit. After a short trip he found himself at the entrance of the Bolian's restaurant. He entered. Upon entering the place he saw that since the last time he was here the place had been remodeled. But its still possessed that special charm that could attract a man who simply passing through. He shrugged these thoughts from his mind as he proceeded towards the table where Lin was seated.

"Admiral", he said, "Excuse me for interrupting your meal", Felix said as he approached the man

<Tag Lin>

"Yes I have once again been reassigned to Assailant although what duties i am to take on over here is still not quite clear"

<Tag Lin>

[Magellan Lin]

"Admiral", he said, "Excuse me for interrupting your meal", Felix said as he approached the man

Magellan looked up,

"Commander Savali!" he said in surprise

"Yes I have once again been reassigned to Assailant although what duties i am to take on over here is still not quite clear"

"I knew Starfleet had assigned more command level personnel but I hadnt had chance to review the list yet. Its good to see you again Felix. This is Mr Tyr." Magellan indicated the beatzoid sat with him, "He is Ezedrianas attache and running the embassy at the moment...In fact you might be able to help there."

"Sir?"

"Well you asked about duties, you could take Chief of Base Operations, F'Rass would be relieved at that but your last assignment was a sector JAG officer and its those skills we may need."

"Go on"

"We have a Major Govan Echal in custody. Arrested by the Jefferson, hes up for some serious charges but Vebn has declared dipomatic immunity. Its all rather irregular, Tyr here will be dealing with Vebn who has assured us that Govan will be punished, Perhaps you could look into the matter with Tyr? Go see Echal check out the case - see whether its worth causing a diplomatic incident over objecting. He currently just been set free under parole and in the care of Vebn. What say you?"

TAG Felix

[Felix Savali]

Felix listened to Magellan's recount of the incident with the new Romulan chief of Security and how Vebn had demanded his release. Typycal, Felix thought. They are going to "punish" him all right... more likely give him a medal.

"Of course... i will first meet with the Diplomatic representative for our side Mr. Tyr and here what he has to say on the progress or any new developments in the case and then i shall endevour to meet with the Romulan major.", Felix said

"Of course", Magellan agreed

"I apologise for interupting your meal sir and i hope you will enjoy the rest of it", Felix said as he prepared to leave

"Thank you", Magellan replied as Felix departed from the Bolian restaurant

=/\=Lily locate Ambassador Tyr=/\=

=/\=Ambassador Tyr is in his quorters=/\=

=/\=Can you please direct me there=/\=, he questioned

And a moment later flashing arrows appeared on the nearby consoles directing Felix toward the man's location. After a longer walk he finally arrived to the entrance of the Ambassador's quorters. He chimned the bell. And a few moments later he heard the words: "Enter"

As he entered the quorters he first noticed that the decor was more or less the usual decor one would find in the quorters of this size on Assaillant. But he was interrupted from his thoughts by Ambassador Tyr clearing his throat.

"Oh of course"; he said, "I am Commodore Felix Savali...or should i say i used to be i am still waiting on offical word regarding my rank for there were some... issues that had to be resolved on that matter but for now i still have the clearance of that rank, the new Chief of Base Operations here on Assaillant"; he said as he extended his hand to shake hands with the man

<Tag Tyr>

"I have just met with Ambassador Lin and he has brought to my attention something relating to an incident involving the new ROmulan chief of security. Now before i went on to see this charming gentleman i would llike you to fill me in on the blanks... what exactly he was charged for, for what reason the Romulans would want him released and why did they assign him as chief of security right here... for we both know Romulans never do anythign without good reason. And i am sure that there is some clues in the diplomatic circles about his presence.", Felix said

[evoran]

Dropping out of warp, the USS Galaxy approached the colossal starbase. On the bridge's viewscreen, Captain Elarus Voran silently observed the hulking structure that he had once called home.

"We have been cleared to dock sir." Reported Morley, the tactical officer.

"Helm, take us in." Ordered Voran, simply.

A few minutes later, the Galaxy was firmly docked inside the starbase, ready for routine maintenance and repair.

"Mr Harris, you have the bridge. Grant shoreleave to all personnel and have the maintenance schedule on my desk as soon as it's ready."

"Aye sir." Replied the Galaxy's first officer.

Before he knew it, Voran was crossing the airlock onto the starbase. It felt good to be back, but Voran wished it was under better circumstances. These were dark times for Assailant, most forcibly because of the death of a child, a child Voran knew and loved well.

Voran knew that all his friends must be mourning D'Beren's death as he was. He knew what his first port of call would be.

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

Outside the Mercys' quarters, Voran pressed the door chime. After a pause he heard the voice of T'Val from inside.

"Come."

Voran entered.

"Captain Voran," said T'Val, "it is agreeable to see you."

"It's good to see you both again." Replied Voran.

Suddenly, he realised that he hadn't even thought about what he was going to say, what did one say at a time like this?

"T'Val, Stuart...I'm so sorry." he finally said, grief etched on his face.

<T'Val/Mercy>

"If there's anything I can do, please let me know." Said Voran before leaving the Mercys' quarters.

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

Voran entered Hisar's Restaurant and quickly located the person he was looking for.

Admiral Lin stood to greet him with a handshake.

"It's good to see you again, Magellan, though I wish it were during better times."

<Magellan>

[Deleted]

“Major?” Govan opened his eyes slowly and trained them on the owner of the less than confident voice. The officer in question, a middle aged human security guard was standing nervously on the other side of the forcefield. Swinging his legs to the ground from the bench and letting his heavy boots hit the ground at the same time with a resounding thud, the Major pulled himself slowly to his feet and took a few deliberate steps towards the edge of the energy barrier, causing the officer on the other side to actually shift back slightly.

A dangerous looking smirk crossed Govan’s face for a moment, as he had enjoyed toying with the guards, but now his stay was apparently over. Humans often tended to forget that Romulans had more sensitive hearing, so he had heard them arguing over who would have the pleasure of setting him loose. He also knew that Vebn wasn’t going to be there to release him, a move most likely planned to throw him off. The guards had been less than thrilled at the Ambassador’s no-show, but Echal understood the reasons behind the calculated move of his opponent. ‘Clever…’; Govan thought as he approached the barrier.

“You’re being released…” the guard announced rather unnecessarily, even though the field remained up. “This lists your assigned quarters.” the man continued indicating a padd he was holding. Govan thought he heard a mumbled comment from behind the representative, something about hoping the Major’s quarters would be no where near theirs. Still no one moved, and the forcefield remained up with the Romulan standing unmoving a few inches away staring down the nervous guard on the other side.

Finally seeing no other choice, the lead man signaled for the barrier to be dropped, and after a few moments of hesitation, it went down with a crackle of energy that was followed by deafening silence. After allowing the eerie quiet to drag on for a moment, Govan stepped out of the cell rolling his shoulders and flexing his muscles like an animal just released from a cage before approaching the guard, who swallowed hard, his eyes filling with fear.

Finally almost right on top of the man, who to his credit didn’t move, the Romulan snatched the padd from the guard’s hand so quickly the startled human couldn’t help but take a giant leap backwards. Several of the other guards actually went for their phasers, but Govan just glanced at them impassively, fixing each officer with a cold stare before allowing another dangerous smirk to cross his face.

“See you later.” the Major stated, repeating the human phase he’d heard the guards say to each other nearly every day as they switched shifts, albeit with a far less friendly tone. With a final hint of a grin, Govan turned slowly on his heal before plodding out of the brig, leaving a dead hush behind him. ‘Now I remember why I like working with humans so much…’; he thought with a sneer.

Once out, the Romulan glanced from side to side, almost expecting someone to be waiting for him, but there was no one. Glancing down at the padd he had so rudely commandeered from the startled guard, he was disappointed to find only a deck, section, and room number, his quarters. With a sigh, he quietly conceded there was no other way, and asked the computer for directions.

~

Sitting alone in the quarters he’d been assigned, Govan had no idea what to do with himself. Without personal possessions of any kind, the room was sparse at best. All he had was the uniform he was wearing, minus the Honor Blade that the Major hadn’t seen since it was taken from him on the Vesuvius. His unarmed status did not sit well with Echal, nor did his assignment, which would most likely put his unique skills to waste and bore him to tears. He had been expecting some sort of instructions for his new position to be waiting for him, but there were none.

With a sigh, the new security chief began to contemplate how to properly arm himself and then proceed with his less than thrilling assignment. He was in enemy territory with no allies to protect him, no positive reputation to fall back on, and no weapons to defend himself, which was not a desirable position to be in by any means. Govan had never been a typical security officer. He’d done interrogations his entire career with a few high level bodyguard assignments here and there, but that was the extent of his experience.

After finally deciding he couldn’t stay in the bland room that felt almost the same as a prison cell one more minute, Govan asked the computer for a diagram of the station highlighting the location of the Romulan embassy and then calculated the least conspicuous way to get there. It took him a good ten minutes longer to get there than it should have, but the Major felt the level of stealth was warranted. He doubted anyone wanted him here any more than he wanted to be here, but if this was to be his new base, he would serve the empire with distinction here.

Once through the door of the embassy, Govan looked around at all the office doors and Romulans behind desks in disgust, but squared his shoulders and marched to the nearest desk and person and stood at attention. “Major Govan Echal reporting in as ordered. What are my instructions?” he requested with a clear, direct voice loud enough to garner the attention of everyone in the office, including the clearly startled man the question was directed towards.

After a lot of useless stalling, it became apparent that this secretary of some kind, Nelon he said his name was, had not been expecting him quite so soon and had no idea what to do with him. Finally the slightly frustrated, mostly nervous man just told Govan to watch the door, without being able to provide him a weapon. The glare Echal sent the aide sent the poor man scurrying out of the room with the half hearted explanation of needing to go get something.

Seething quietly, Govan took a firm stance in front of the door determined that Vebn was going to hear about this once he showed his face. The once proud and revered officer was humiliated at being reduced to an unarmed doorstop, which was most likely what the Ambassador had planned. Hiding behind human guards and unprepared aides, Major Echal decided the man was clearly a coward, and in his experience, cowards usually got what was coming to them soon enough.

The first person through the door was another dignitary in long robes, but not letting anyone past without approval, Govan blocked his path. To the Major’s continuing consternation, the newcomer, another useless Ambassador if Echal had to guess, didn’t even address him and instead called for the aide, who rushed over to explain that this was an Ambassador Tedak, who should be granted access, before scurrying back to his desk.

"Well? I doubt you'll like it if I bodily move you from my doorway. I have work to do, and you're delaying it." the Ambassador huffed with his arms crossed. It took every ounce of control Govan had left to keep from sending Tedak flying across the room. The Major had enough of being treated with so little respect and his eyes flashed dangerously as he invaded the other man’s personal space and glowered down at him.

“I have been assigned here to protect the embassy. If you had just informed me of your name and position directly instead of calling for help from a secretary like a coward, this unpleasant situation might have been avoided. I don’t take kindly to being ignored, Ambassador, and I suggest you remember that.” Govan’s voice was low and threatening and his eyes never left Tedak’s, even as he stepped back allowing the Ambassador access to his office.

<Tedak>

[mercy]

Their evening was not one of peace and quiet, but one of accepting one visitor after another, each one bringing paying their respects and giving condolences for the death of D’Beren. From friends to colleagues, and acquaintances to strangers, the door chime became an unending crescendo of the night.

Stuart was of course happy to see so many caring souls, but he couldn’t help but wonder how many of these same people would have cared if D’Beren had been a simple child. He knew it was dumb to even question that thought the moment he had entertained it. Yes, D’Beren had meant so much for this entire sector that it only made sense for so many to feel the sorrow his death left behind. Coupled together with the current Klingon/Tholian situation Stuart was sure that the Debrunes must be losing hope…if not faith.

“I hope that was the last visitor for tonight?”

T’Val’s comment brought Stuart out of his thoughts as he looked over at the wall chronometer. It was 22:12 and Stuart could almost hear his pillow calling him. Standing up, he addressed the base’s computer.

“Lily! Deactivate the door chime and inform any further visitors that we have turned in. They are welcome to leave behind a message which we shall reply to at our earliest convenience.”

::: Yes, Dr. Mercy. May you and Healer T’Val have a good night. :::

“Thank you, Lily.”

Stuart then turned his attention to his wife, after which he remembered something.

“Oh Lily?”

::: Yes, Dr. Mercy? :::

“Please resend that message to Ji’Zhan about my findings of T’Val having latent Debrune DNA and my request for his help with any Debrune knowledge or technology that he may be aware of, to aid in our research about T’Val’s possibility of having a child.”

::: Resending now. :::

“Thank you! There, I forgot to ask him if he had gotten that message when he was here. Then again, that was the farthest from my mind at the moment. Let’s go to bed.”

[Deleted]

His tall frame, spots, and Vulcan ears told her that her son was approaching her. She so badly wanted to run towards him and explain the best she could.

"Mother, I'm sorry this happened to you," T'Brel said as he looked at the guard standing near them," can you lower the force field?"

"Sorry sir, I have my orders," the guard said.

"Look I just want to talk to my mother, I won't let anything happen to her," T'Brel said angrily.

"T'Brel no, we don't know what's wrong with me just yet," Ezdreiana said," my final test should be in tomorrow. Hopefully what ever happened to me is gone, but we can't be sure until those test come in."

"From what I've heard they are going to need you," T'Brel said," the Romulans and Debrune have taken offense of your Klingon friends being here. They have filed a formal complaint co-signed by the Romulan Ambassador."

"We need that fleet here, with them here the Klingon Empire would not declare war on one of their own houses," Ezdreiana said thinking diplomatically," the Romulans are trying to bring in favor with the Debrune. An alliance between them would be disastrous."

"What are you going to do?" T'Brel asked.

"I don't know just yet, I have to get out of here first," Ezdreiana said hoping that T'Val would be able to discharge her and let her work.

(T'Val)

[Magellan Lin]

Voran entered Hisar's Restaurant and quickly located the person he was looking for.

Admiral Lin stood to greet him with a handshake.

"It's good to see you again, Magellan, though I wish it were during better times."

Magellan looked up for a third time that meal and grinned,

"At this rate I ll make this my office and have everybody eat up in Ops."

He rose and grasped Elarus's hand,

"Good to see you" He said, "You here on your own?"

"No the Galaxy is here. We ve been detached from Presidential duties"

"And you came here?"

"Well I hate boring holidays, We are at your disposal"

"Excellent" Magellan replied "We could do with all the ships we can in this sector. Things are hotting up substantially. Though I do suggest you give your staff some downtime. But for now you can be attached to my staff. Commodore Savali has just retruned also, the old teams back together."

[Deleted]

Tedak stood waiting for the taller male to respond and he could see the man tense up. To Tedak, he looked to be roughly the same age, but he did look better trained. Still, Tedak had skills that would probably still work in his current, lesser condition, he just needed to keep his calm. To do this, he relaxed his stance somewhat while he waited.

“I have been assigned here to protect the embassy. If you had just informed me of your name and position directly instead of calling for help from a secretary like a coward, this unpleasant situation might have been avoided. I don’t take kindly to being ignored, Ambassador, and I suggest you remember that.”

"You are an unknown," Tedak countered, trying to hold his famous temper when he was accused of being a coward. "If an unknown blocks my way, I call for Nelon to give me the information I need. You could claim to be anyone."

He clenched his jaws together in fury, biting back the angry response that threatened to escape his lips. "You may not take kindly to being ignored, but trust me, if you call me a coward again I will make sure you regret it."

The two men kept their eyes locked on eachother as Tedak brushed past Govan, shoving him aside as he wanted more room to get into his office. He had work to do, but with all the current dealings, he just couldn't put his mind to it. Sighing, he sat down at his desk and ran his hands through his hair in desperation. There was still the Klingon situation but Ezdreiana needed to be in on that, and the Trill was still detained in sickbay.

A light blinked on his desk, indicating a message had arrived. Opening it, he noted, with mild delight, that Felix Savali had returned to the station. He knew Felix and his old friend Saarok were good friends, so he hoped the commodore would have information on his friends current whereabouts. "Lily, please contact Mr Savali and invite him to meet me in my office at his earliest convenience? Tell him I got a good year of Ale to share with him."

"Affirmative," Lily answered happily, refraining from pointing out that Romulan Ale was illegal within the federation. "Mr Savali, Ambassador Tedak has asked for you to meet with him in his office when you have time. He said he's got some good ale to share with you."

[Deleted]

Tyr was sat at his desk, looking through a magnifying glass at a very small microchip, roughly the size of a grain of sand, encased within a hyposray vial. The device was nothing special, just a routine tracker, but it was effective, and operated on such a simplictic wavelength that ti was incredibly difficult to block. Having abandoned his plan to blow a hole in the Romulan's belly, he had opted instead to simply know if he was dangerously close, or anywhere that was a little to close for comfort. The most inconspicuous way of achieving this was for an injection, probably against the strain of Rigellian flu that was about some of the frieghters coming in. All he had to do know was to find a way of getting this into the right place in sickbay...

His thoughts were oce again interrupted by a chime at the door. Stuffing the vial into a hidden hole in his chair, Tyr pulled a pile of paperwork in front of him, spreading it around the desk to give the illusion of a large amount of work.

"Enter" he called out, only remembering to hit the watch button at the last minute, disabling his hidden flashbang device. When the time came it would be incredibly useful, but until then it was just a damned annoyance.

A Starfleet Commodore entered, looking around the room until Tyr cleared his throat to bring him back down to earth.

"Oh of course"; he said, "I am Commodore Felix Savali...or should i say i used to be i am still waiting on offical word regarding my rank for there were some... issues that had to be resolved on that matter but for now i still have the clearance of that rank, the new Chief of Base Operations here on Assaillant"; he said as he extended his hand to shake hands with the man. Tyr took his hand and shook it a little too vigorously, returning to character as he stood and grinning like the simple idiot he pretended to be.

"I have just met with Ambassador Lin and he has brought to my attention something relating to an incident involving the new Romulan chief of security. Now before i went on to see this charming gentleman i would llike you to fill me in on the blanks... what exactly he was charged for, for what reason the Romulans would want him released and why did they assign him as chief of security right here... for we both know Romulans never do anything without good reason. And i am sure that there is some clues in the diplomatic circles about his presence.", Felix said

"I wouldn't say clues no Commodore" Tyr replied carefully, trying not to reveal anything he had obtained from intelligence dossiers "I know he came aboard from the Vesuvius, having kidnapped a group of ambassadors I believe. The attempt had failed, and he had been captured by a comedy of errors during his suicide attempt. From what I know of Romulans, they will either want to release him to humiliate and deal with him in their own little sadistic way, or he will be of some use to them, and worth preserving. Honestly, either one scares me, but then the idea of someone, probably either military or intelligence, running around the base in general scares me" He paused for breath.
"Unless we do something radical it's out of our hands anyway. I would however recommend that Starfleet security keeps an eye on him discreetly though. And purely for my own peace of mind, someone extra on the DCS entrance would make me fell a hell of a lot more secure"

<TAG Savali>

The Commodore's response was cut short by a message from Tedak.

"Well I won't keep you Commodore. I know Ambassador Tedak won't want to be kept waiting. When you see him though, would you mind saying that Ambassador Tyr would like that document he asked for when he gets a minute. It's just an agricultural file, but he'll understand" He prayed Tedak did understand that he was actually referring to his request for Echal's Tal Shiar file.
"One i've met with Ambassador Ezdreiana on some other matters, we should have some lunch and go over things further"

<TAG Savali>

Following the Commodore's departure Tyr left his quarters himself, heading to sickbay to visit Ezdreiana. Upone entering, he approached an abandoned console, and typed in an annonymous computer message, notifying someone on duty that Echal needed a flu shot. He then loaded a hypospray with the vial containing both vaccine and microscopic tracking pin, and left it next to the flashing message, walking in to see Ezdreiana in her private ward. He was banking ona junior member of staff finding that message, hoping that T'Val and Mercy were still too deep in mourning to return to sickbay. As he entered, a barrage of questions hit him. The ambassador had obviously found out about the Romulan/Debrune/Klingon incident.

<TAG Ezdreiana>

"Alright ambassador. What we know is that I have asked Tedak to mediate with the Romulans. I've been trying to keep us on the Klingon's side as much as possible without taking sides, but it has been difficult. I was considering having a sitdown with us, Tedak, Elder Ji' Zhan and a fresh Klingon representative. I think Major Korok's presence would only act as an antagonising one"

<TAG Ezdreiana>

[Felix Savali]

Felix listened to Tyr laying out the circumstances that led to the arrest of the Romulan Major. It seems like this Romulan might be more than he appears to be Felix thought. From what he knew of the Romulans they did not send out ordinary soldiers to kidnap high ranking officials of other species and especially not someone who was so dumb to get captured. Obviously something was fishy there. But he decided to keep this line of thought for himself for now he thought as Tyr finished his storytelling.

"I will of course make some... arrangements to keep Major Echal under observation of course. The corridor leading to the Romulan embassy I believe needs a new coat of paint", Felix said as he winked at the Betazoid.

Before Tyr could say anything more the message from Tedak came through Lily for him. And Ambassador Tyr found it necessary to point out that he should probably be getting on his way and meet Tedak.

"That depends if one wishes to make a dramatic entrance or not Ambassador"; Felix said

"I will contact you once i have finished my meeting with Ambassador Tedak and after i have met this charming Romulan Major and we can discuss thing further", Felix said

"Until then", Tyr said

And after shaking hands with him, Felix departed from the quarters belonging to the unusual Betazoid. After leaving his quarters Felix contacted OPS to organize the observation of the Romulan department.

=/\=Commodore Savali to OPS=/\=

=/\=OPS here, go ahead sir=/\=

=/\=Make up a team of two security officers and dressed them up as maintenance workers... make sure they know what they're doing don't send some rookies. Once they're suited up send them to apply a new coat of paint in the corridor of leading towards the offices of our Romulan friends. Tell them to keep an eye out for Mr. Echal,=/\=

=/\=Understood sir, OPS out=/\=

Once that was done, Felix proceeded on his way to meet with Ambassador Tedak. It has been a while since he last saw the man. After a short trip with the turbolift, he arrived to the Diplomatic Office level and proceeded towards the Romulan embassy. As he approached the entrance he pressed the buzzer for visitors and a few moments later a voice asked him to state his business.

"Commodore Savali here to see Ambassador Tedak, I have an appointment", he said

After a few moments of silence the door opened and he entered. He passed by the front desk and a grumpy looking Romulan wearing the markings of a Major. But he paid no special attention to the man as he proceeded down to Tedak's office. Once more the pressed the buzzer and a few moments later he heard a voice inviting him to enter.

"Ambassador Tedak", he said as he entered and shook hands with the man

"Please, have a seat Mr. Savali", Tedak offered him

"Thank you, Ambassador"; Felix replied, "Now I believe you said you had a cure for a sore throat lying around here somewhere", he said as he smiled

<Tag Tedak>

[Deleted]

Tedak smiled and pulled the bottle of clear blue liquid from a cabinet under his desk, along with two glasses. "Compliments of the Romulan Empire," he said, putting the two glasses on his desk, then poured a generous amount of the spirits into each glass. "It's good to see you back commodore, life on this station wasn't the same without you. I do wish that, along with you, my friend Saarok would've returned as well."

The Romulan paused, tossing back his drink in one swallow, the cast the man opposite of him a sad look. "I'm worried about him. I haven't heard from him in weeks and I've been trying to invite him to D'Beren's funeral as he is a close friend of the family."

Pouring each another shot, he shoved a PADD towards the human. "This is the information Ambassador Tyr requested. I have a copy available for him but I thought Starfleet should be made aware. The ambassador attacked me in his quarters two days ago, and I'm still feeling ill from the after effect of his telepathic attack on me. I don't trust him, and I don't think you should either. This affair with Ambassador Ezdreiana has me worried, what struck her could strike us all and I'd like to see it investigated."

He tossed back his second drink, then shoved his glass aside. "I'm worried how this all will affect Federation/Debrune and Romulan/Debrune relations, especially with the Debrune complaining about the Klingons. Can you get me into contact with whoever holds the office of Klingon attaché?"

[Felix Savali]

"I am afraid that I do not know where Ambassador Saarok is at this time.", Felix said, "All I can say is what the official files state and that is that he is taking part in a First Contact mission. The location of the place he is partaking in these negotiations and the exact contents of them has been made classified.", Felix said as he showered his throat with the bluish liquid

Felix listened to Tedak outline the incident regarding the new Federation Ambassador Mr. Tyr.

"Attacked you in his quarters?", Felix exclaimed, "I assure you that that attack is not sanctioned by the Federation and definitely not a sign of things to come in Romulan Federation relations. Although we might have our differences we do not have our diplomatic staff attack others and especially not foreign representatives who have been representing their people successfully for years.", he said

After Tedak passed him the file Felix took a look at it and noticed it was not an agricultural file.

"I trust this is the agricultural file Ambassador Tyr wanted me to tell you to send to him at your earliest convenience?", Felix questioned

<Tag Tedak>

After Tedak responded to his question regarding the file the incident with Ambassador Ezdreiana came up on the table.

"What exactly happened with Ambassador Ezdreiana?", Felix questioned, "I did read the file but those things can never substitute a recollection by someone who was in the vicinity of the actual event.", he said

<Tag Tedak>

After Tedak laid out what occurred with Ezdreiana, Felix promised to personally look into the incident.

"It would appear strange things continue to take place on this base as they did the last time I was here", Felix commented

After the topic regarding Ezdreiana was closed Felix took another shot of the bluish drink while listening to Tedak lay out the problems in relations with the Debrune.

"What exactly is the klingon aspect in the recent happenings here? Ambassador Tyr was rather vague on the issue. As I recall the Klingons were planning to forcibly remove Tholian colonies from their worlds and as I have been rather out of touch with the events in this sector I would appreciate a quick guide on what occurred that endangered the Relations with the Debrune and Klingons.", Felix said

<Tag Tedak>

"I understand", Felix said when Tedak told him how the Klingons fit into the recent occurrences

"Well I do believe Major K'Tar should be available for a chat over at the Klingon Embassy unless something changed that I am not aware of.", Felix said

"I will do my best to arrange a private meeting for you with him, but in the meantime... What can you tell me about the story behind Ambassador Vebn requesting the release of Major Govan Echal who instead of being shipped back to Romulus for "punishment" as the Ambassador indicated would happen has been made chief of security for your embassy here?", Felix questioned

<Tag Tedak>

[Deleted]

Ezdreiana's conversation with her son stopped the instant that Tyr walked into sickbay. She began to asking questions that he would not know the answer of.

"Alright ambassador. What we know is that I have asked Tedak to mediate with the Romulans. I've been trying to keep us on the Klingon's side as much as possible without taking sides, but it has been difficult. I was considering having a sitdown with us, Tedak, Elder Ji' Zhan and a fresh Klingon representative. I think Major Korok's presence would only act as an antagonizing one"

"The Klingon's will only have a sit down if the Debrune withdraw their formal complaint," Ezdreiana said standing from her biobed," if the Romulans attend their will be no chance of the Klingon's attending."

(Tyr)

"I also agree with your assessment of Korok's presence being a negative, but the only qualified member of the Klingon High Council is Mazerk, a personal friend of mine. I doubt that will work either," Ezdreiana said knowing that only a few hundred meters away his fleet stood waiting for her orders.

(Tyr)

"Tyr, please work with Felix, I mean Commodore Savali and get us a sit down meeting," Ezdreiana said," it is important that the Romulans not be at that meeting. We want to better the relationship between the Klingon's and the Debrune. The Romulans will make that impossible."

(Tyr)

[Deleted]

"I trust this is the agricultural file Ambassador Tyr wanted me to tell you to send to him at your earliest convenience?", Felix questioned

The Romulan nodded. "If that's what he meant, yes. This list is a real list. He will need it to do his work properly, but he could've just asked me, instead of attacking me the way he did. Isn't forcing telepathy on a non-telepath a crime on Betazed?"

"What exactly happened with Ambassador Ezdreiana?", Felix questioned, "I did read the file but those things can never substitute a recollection by someone who was in the vicinity of the actual event.", he said

"I'm not entirely certain," Tedak answered truthfully, a frown creasing his brow. "I was called by Lily, who told me there had been a shooting in sickbay. She said my ex-wife and her husband had been shot, along with ambassador Tyr. When I got there, security had already arrived and sickbay staff were tending to Tyr and the Mercy's. Perhaps you could look into it further? Ezdreiana would never shoot anyone without good reason, if she would shoot at all. And this wasn't a good reason."

"It would appear strange things continue to take place on this base as they did the last time I was here", Felix commented

Tedak laughed softly. "You are pulled to trouble like iron is to a magnet," he chuckled, filling up Savali's glass again with the blue liquid.

"What exactly is the klingon aspect in the recent happenings here? Ambassador Tyr was rather vague on the issue. As I recall the Klingons were planning to forcibly remove Tholian colonies from their worlds and as I have been rather out of touch with the events in this sector I would appreciate a quick guide on what occurred that endangered the Relations with the Debrune and Klingons.", Felix said

"I'm afraid the Romulans are kept painfully out of the loop lately," the Romulan answered angrily, "but from what I've observed, the Klingons and the Tholians have taken to blaming eachother for something that I'm still trying to figure out. Perhaps Ambassador s'Khellian knows..." He trailed off, looking over his glass at the starfleet officer across his desk.

"Well I do believe Major K'Tar should be available for a chat over at the Klingon Embassy unless something changed that I am not aware of.", Felix said

"No I think he's still there, just refusing to talk to us that's all. Not that we're complaining, because we don't get along well with Klingons lately. However a meeting is necessary and I am willing to accomodate the Klingon ambassador privately."

"I will do my best to arrange a private meeting for you with him, but in the meantime... What can you tell me about the story behind Ambassador Vebn requesting the release of Major Govan Echal who instead of being shipped back to Romulus for "punishment" as the Ambassador indicated would happen has been made chief of security for your embassy here?", Felix questioned

"Ambassador s'Khellian doesn't see it fit to share everything with me," the romulan replied sourly, "I was expecting Govan and I was told to release him to a Romulan commander who would be arriving in a few days. Govan Echal was to be turned over to the Romulan Empire for execution. He has betrayed his people and his government by abducting and killing Federation and Romulan diplomats. I am not too happy on having him for protection now, I don't trust the man. And he's powerhungry."

Downing his fourth drink, Tedak looked somewhat sadly at the now empty bottle. "What are you going to do about Tyr?" he finally asked, "I want to lodge a formal complaint against his attack. And I want to find out why Echal was made security chief in our embassy. He's a security risk to start with. I recommend restricting his access to Federation classified materials, and also restrict his use of Lily. Restrict in that he won't be authorised to access sensitive materials and will need clearance codes for everything he needs beyond standard issues."

He paused. "Much like Lily was told to ask me for authorisation codes if I request something. But then securer, until we find out what game Vebn is playing."