4.5 Celestial Mary

[Felix Savali]

Felix listened to Tedak share all he knew on the recent happenings around the station or at least all he was willing to share in the worst case. But for now it was enough to provide an overview of the situation on base.

"I thank you for sharing this wonderful liquid with me", Felix said, "And I will do my best to look into the situation regarding Ambassador Ezdreiana... however you understand there is only as much i can do myself... I do believe Dr. Mercy would be someone who could execute an investigation which could prove to be much more fruitful than any I could.", he said

"And as for Major Govan Echal... We can do something about that right now.", he said as he tapped his comm. badge

=/\=Computer... Identify... Savali, Felix.... Commodore... authorization code alpha-1-1-9-omega-blue-red-red-green=/\=

=/\=Authorization code accepted... please enter command=/\=

=/\=Access clearance levels... Echal... Govan, Major.... Romulan Diplomat...=/\=

=/\=Major Govan Echal Clearance levels are set to standard access for diplomatic staff confirmed for service from non member planets=/\=

=/\=Edit clearance levels... restrict access to Starfleet and Debrune Personnel file, station logs, schematics and security related databases, defense network, site to site transport ability and all information except that which is a matter of public knowledge.=/\=

=/\=Clearance Levels for Major Govan Echal have been restricted to public databases only.=/\=

=/\=If he requests any of the restricted files enter notice to contact Chief of Base Operations and dispatch a message with a list of files he attempted to access to base chief of security. Command edit... end.=/\=

=/\=Changes accepted and saved... root access terminated=/\=

"There we go", Felix said, "This should keep him occupied for a while", he said

"I once again thank you for your hospitality Ambassador. And I will have a word with Ambassador Tyr regarding the incident with forcing his telepathic abilities on you.", Felix said as he got up and shook hands with the Romulan, "And I will be sure to inform you when I have succeeded in arranging a meeting with the Klingon representative", he said, "Until we meet again", Felix said as he left the office of the Romulan Ambassador

After departing from the Romulan Embassy Felix decided to go to sickbay and visit Ambassador Ezdreiana. While heading down towards sickbay he was thinking about the things Tedak told him. It definitely was an interesting story all in all and many unknowns were lurking around which was more than he liked. But perhaps Ambassador Ezdreiana would be able to fill in the blanks.

After a short trip he finally arrived to sickbay. He found that Retarius Tyr was there which was quite fortunate to say the truth.

"Ambassador Ezdreiana. He said as he enter sickbay... It is a pleasure to see you again... although it would've been much more pleasant if you were not in sickbay", he said

<Tag Ezdreiana>

"Ah Ambassador Tyr... how nice it is to find you here as well", he said, "Perhaps you could explain what exactly were you thinking using your telepathic abilities to assault a fellow diplomat from the Romulan Embassy and at that the only Romulan diplomat who is partly on our side?", he questioned

"And also if you ever again attempt to lie to me or deceive me to bring you files from other people without actually telling me what the file is... you will have trouble finding a job as a cleaner on a cargo transport... is that clear", Felix questioned slightly raising his voice

"Because, and believe me when I say this Mr. Tyr... I am not some ensign you send out on errands... and I bite back if you attempt to tease me", he said

<Tag Tyr, Ezdreiana>

[Deleted]

"I'll make sure the Romulans know nothing about it then" Tyr said nodding "But if you could get your friend to come aboard, preferably alone and as lightly armed as a Klingon can be, then it may be enough of a good faith gesture to get the Debrune to sit down. I'll speak to Commodore Savali, and also to Elder Ji'Zhan, hopefully something can be sorted out. You'll be released undoubtedly before anything major can occur, so hopefully you'll be able to take a more active role as well"

Without warning, Commodore Savali entered the isolation room and began talking to Ezdreiana. He then turned on Tyr.

"Ah Ambassador Tyr... how nice it is to find you here as well", he said, "Perhaps you could explain what exactly were you thinking using your telepathic abilities to assault a fellow diplomat from the Romulan Embassy and at that the only Romulan diplomat who is partly on our side?", he questioned

"And also if you ever again attempt to lie to me or deceive me to bring you files from other people without actually telling me what the file is... you will have trouble finding a job as a cleaner on a cargo transport... is that clear", Felix questioned slightly raising his voice

"Because, and believe me when I say this Mr. Tyr... I am not some ensign you send out on errands... and I bite back if you attempt to tease me", he said.

Tyr wanted to scream and bang his head repeatedly on the wall. For a former intelligence operative, Tedka had a lose mouth. His job was already difficult enough, but now a ranking Starfleet officer and his boss were both convinced he was a subversive and aggressive nut job. Enough was enough, he had to come clean, even if it led to his death at this point.

"To hell with it" he said simply, leaning past Savali to close the door to the room, leaving only himself, Ezdreiana, her son and the Commodore within.
"Computer, I need to access a restricted intelligence file, but I need to have the circuit to this display isolated, and all records of this access deleted, as well as the back up memory. I'll need the security recordings of the time since Commodore Savali's entrance deleted as well"

"Both file access, and data deletion will require Level 10 command code authorisation"

"Command code is Tyr Omega Six Four Eight. Access Starfleet Intelligence restricted dossier 347 Delta, and display it on the monitor"

"Processing" The screen lit up, and an image of Tyr appeared, along with the service record from his last eight years in intelligence. All three of the onlookers leaned in to view the file, all notably taken aback.

"I am Commander Retiarius Tyr, assigned to Starfleet Intelligence covert field operations, division six. I am secretly assigned here to assess the reunificationist threat that our sources have led us to believe may occur between the Romulans, Vulcans and Debrune. Ambassador Tedak knows this, and though I regret my attack on him, it was a necessity of the service. My work is entirely covert, and I am currently under threat from rogue elements within the Federation, as well as factions of the Romulan Star Empire and the Debrune Hierarchy. As such, your oaths to the Federation would apply at this point to not reveal me for who I really am. My authorisation comes under Special Directive 66715, whereby Intelligence operatives are authorised to remove threats by whatever means necessary"

He stopped for breath and looked at the stunned faces of those around him. He deactivated the screen, and wiped the memory as he had ordered.

"I assume there will be questions now?" He ventured, settling himself on the edge of Ezdreiana's biobed.

<TAG Anyone who's nosy>

[Felix Savali]

Off: Nosy you say... I don’t know how nosy this'll seem.

Felix listened to Tyr's story and was not even the slightest bit impressed. Executive order 66715? He thought.

"For someone whose life is threatened you certainly do not take measures to ensure your activities to remain secret and those that are not to appear legitimate and legal", Felix said

"See Ambassador Tedak wishes to file a formal complaint against you and if he was to do that... we would be forced to respond to that complaint in order to protect the relationship with the Romulan Star Empire from deteriorating. This would mean this could not simply be swept under a rug because the Romulans could insist on the fact you be punished and at the very least you would need to be removed from this assignment", he said

"Secondly... by any means necessary. If Admiral Lin was to find out that you were exercising this on this base with clues leading to you as the person responsible for those actions... you would be in a whole load of trouble no matter who stood behind you... trust me. Starfleet does not appreciate that order for it reminds us of Section 31 and we do not like them.", he said

Although he knew he had made some deals in the past with the department or rather one of its former members. But that was beside the point at this time.

"Third i advise you not to reveal this information to anyone else on base here... and when i mean not to anyone i mean to no-one. And to cover your tracks better in the future. And certainly sending people for agricultural files when you are asking for lists of suspects and the person giving the files tells you the contents of the file is not agricultural analysis of moon beta-669 is not what i mean by covering your tracks.", he said

"4th... i want to know and i want the truth... did you have anything to do with Ezdreiana's moment of... irrationality which happened here? And do you have any knowledge on its cause?"

"And what exactly is the cause of the disruption in relations between the Klingons and the Debrune?", he questioned, "Also I want you to stay away from Ambassador Tedak for now... I will attempt to settle him down on the issue of him awaiting to file a formal complaint on you for your actions but I want you to organize a meeting between Tedak and Major K'Tar... once you have K'Tar convinced to meet with Tedak... send me a message. Also know one more thing... I am not going to help you because of who you are or what you do or because of any orders you quoted here... I owe someone a favor and that is the only reason i will help you for now", Felix said

<Tag Tyr, Ezdreiana>

[Deleted]

Off: You may consider this an NPC char at this time

Saarok was standing on the bridge of the USS Dark Wolf. This excursion was not one that he planned but for some reason logic stated he had to do this at this time.

"Dropping out of warp at the edge of the system sir", a man said, "Cloaking shields up and holding.

"Bring us within transport range... modulate the transport beam frequency to mach plasma exhausts of the station and determine if Ambassador Tedak is alone in a room", Saarok spoke

"Yes sir... we will be ready in 10 minutes", the man said

--10 minutes later--

"The human identified as Commodore Savali has just departed from the office of the Romulan Ambassador... we are ready to transport you over at your command", the man said

"Energize"; Saarok spoke as he dematerialized and materialized in the office of Ambassador Tedak shocking the poor Romulan out of his skin

But before he spoke anything... Saarok extracted his tricoder, opened it and placed it on the desk... therefore neutralizing any and all scanning and other recording devices from penetrating the room in which they were in.

"Greeting old friend", Saarok spoke as emotionless as ever, "I trust I am not disturbing?", he questioned turning his head around as if attempting to see if Tedak had any company

<Tag Tedak>

[Deleted]

Watching the human Commodore exit the office of Ambassador Tedak, the Major’s mood soured further when the man didn’t even spare him a glance as he left the embassy. The fact that Vebn hadn’t shown up yet was frustrating Govan beyond the point of tolerance. There were things that needed to be discussed, things that needed to be done, and the once proud Romulan was stuck just standing around waiting for something to happen. His lack of control over the situation and his own circumstances was becoming absolutely intolerable.

Finally, unable to take it anymore, Govan decided that maybe he could get things moving by talking to Ambassador Tedak. Sure, he probably didn’t have the power to be of any use, and they hadn’t exactly met under the best of circumstances, but at this point, it was worth a try. Once he reached the door, the Major glanced over at the aide behind the desk, who was watching with a curious look on his face but immediately looked away once he’d been spotted. With a slight sneer, the Major raised his hand to request entrance.

Before he pushed the call button, Govan halted as he heard the faint sound of a transporter. Freezing in place, one hand hovering in place above the button, the Romulan strained to hear what was going on. When his ears managed to catch a voice that was not Ambassador Tedak’s, the Major reacted almost instinctively. There was no way he was going to let a Romulan Ambassador get killed in the embassy on his first day on the job as security, absolutely no way.

Within a few seconds, Govan had forcibly shouldered his way through the door, crossed the room, and pinned the “intruder” to the wall, right arm trapped between the Vulcan’s back and the wall, and the left arm twisted painfully against the wall by Govan’s right hand. Had the Major been armed, whatever weapon he’d had would have been at the unknown’s throat, but instead, the Romulans’s left arm pressed across the other man’s shoulders with a hand around his neck just hard enough to make breathing difficult but not enough so he couldn’t speak.

“Just who do you think you are, and what are you doing here?” Govan demanded menacingly, his eyes glaring into the other man’s daring him to try and move. His hold was good, and if the Vulcan risked making a move, the Major could easily snap his neck, or his arm, or both.

Feeling secure enough in his hold to spare a glance at Tedak, Govan was stunned to see the Ambassador’s eyes were slightly unfocused, his face a little flushed, and the man looked absolutely stunned. The Major turned back to his prey with renewed fury in his eyes. “And WHAT did you do to the Ambassador? Answer me or you’ll wish you were never born, Vulcan.”

<Tag Saarok and Tedak>

[Deleted]

Before Tedak could reply to Saarok's unexpected appearance, another Romulan burst into the room and began gloating over managing to overpower Saarok and force him against the wall... or so he thought.

"I see you still have not done the logical thing and secured the entrance to your office"; Saarok said to Tedak ignoring the man who at first sight had gotten the upper hand on him

"Major Govan Echal... a former Tal Shiar agent who failed during his last mission and was meant to be sentenced to death and executed on Romulus on the main square in front of all the loyal subject of the empire but instead he gets a fate worse than death... to serve as a chief of security on a base in federation territory. Logic would state the honorable thing to do would be to commit suicide", Saarok said to the man while staring directly into his eyes

"Now Major Echal i propose you do the logical thing and release me before i am forced to cause unnecessary pain to you. I have not arrived here for that purpose but unless you... withdraw... logic will state there is only one possible solution to this problem...", Saarok continued to speak

<Tag Tedak>

[Deleted]

Govan could not remember a time when he’d wanted to kill someone so badly. First, he’d been initially ignored, yet again, second, he’d been directly insulted, although whoever this guy was he seemed to know exactly who he was and what had happened, and third, the Vulcan didn’t seem at all threatened or concerned, which irritated the Major still further. Breathing hard in barely controlled rage, Govan clenched his jaw fighting for control over his temper and tightened his grip on the man’s arm and throat. This was a dangerous game he was playing.

“No matter who I am or how I got here, my job is to protect the embassy and its staff. You have just initiated an unauthorized transport into the office of a representative of the Romulan Empire. I merely reacted to your intrusion. So, I will not let you go unless the Ambassador gives me the go ahead, not to mention I need to hear a good explanation as to who you are and why you’re here, especially as there is nothing wrong with the front door to the embassy.”

Govan’s eyes never left the calm, confident gaze of the Vulcan. Either this guy was really good and could actually break the hold without getting his arm broken or he was just an expert at bluffing. The Romulan’s money was on him bluffing, but just to be sure, Govan mentally rechecked his hold, ensuring both arms were sufficiently trapped and that the rest of him was effectively pinned in place, and prepared for any sort of move or attack the Vulcan could make while waiting for Ambassador Tedak to speak and seal the man’s fate or allow him to be freed.

<Tag Tedak>

[Deleted]

Instead of passing, Tedak felt as though his ever-present headache was starting to get worse. Reaching back for a hypospray, his attention was momentarily gone from his desk, thus he started visibly when suddenly someone transported straight into his office. A feat that, with all security measures in place, technically shouldn't have been possible.

He just barely managed to keep his balance in his awkward position, then managed to jump to his feet without toppling over. The room looked as though it was about to split in two and he blinked a few times. In that time, anyone wishing him harm could've done so as the headache and the ale had slowed his response time considerably.

Before he could respond to the intruder, however, Echal burst into the room and pinned the intruder against the wall. Curiously, Tedak watched the exchange, upon which he recognized the person who had beamed in. "I suggest you do release him, Major Echal," Tedak quietly spoke up. "Ambassador Saarok may just carry out his threat and I wouldn't want to see you injured by my friend here."

He turned to Saarok. "Saarok my friend, you have a way of making an entrance people won't forget, however next time I strongly suggest you use the door. Major Echal is right, his job is to protect the people in this embassy, and he could easily have killed you."

The Romulan diplomat paused, trying to regain his own composure. "That does, however leave the question of what you are doing here, beaming into my office unannounced. I stress again that Major Echal could have killed you, as could have I if I hadn't been suffering this headache and hadn't just shared an entire bottle of ale with Commodore Savali."

[Deleted]

After the rude Romulan Security Officer released him, Saarok pretended to sweep of the dust from his robes.

"We shall return to that topic in a moment, but first", Saarok said to Tedak's claims of killing

While Echal was distracted with observing Tedak's odd state of physical readiness Saarok extracted a small weapon from his robes and aimed it at Echal.

"Major", he called at the Romulan who as soon as he turned to face the unusual Vulcan who appeared out of nowhere was hit point blank on the forehead with a beam coming from the weapon Saarok extracted. After the beam made contact with his head Echal collided with the floor and remained still.

After this was done, Saarok moved over to the door and made sure it was locked this time. Then he turned to face Tedak finally.

"Now that we have taken care of the interruptions.... Do not worry Major Echal is not in any danger... he will wake up in 30 minutes and he will not remember anything that took place here. I have arrived in this manner because i do not wish for anyone to know i was here. It is merely a... visit to extend my condolences for the loss of your step-son D'Breen. I know your emotions are strong in that respect for it is only logical as even Vulcans are faced with extreme emotions in situations like that one and must exercise extreme concentration and meditation to keep them at bay.", Saarok said

<Tag Tedak>

[Deleted]

"Adoptive son," the Romulan corrected, while kneeling beside the unconscious guardsman, "and this was really unnecessary. Echal doesn't know who you are, and I could've easily concocted up some story on why you appeared in the fashion you did. Memory wipes like this aren't always permanent you know."

Sighing, he rose to his feet, after having made certain Echal would not suffer any permanent damage. "Your condoleances, however, are appreciated. It is tough on all of us, but especially on T'Val. You know how strong a childwish she had when we were married and now that she's Mercy's wife, the feeling is even stronger. D'beren's death hit her really hard."

He paused. "Will you ever return to SBA on a permanent basis? Life isn't the same without you, and especially Vebn is giving me a tough time lately. After our Romulus adventure he's mellowed a little, even seems friendly, but that's the extend of it. If he can exclude me from knowing anything I should know about, he will do so."

Tedak walked back to his desk and sat down, then nodded towards the unconscious Echal. "Just how am I going to explain him lying on my floor?" he asked, "or do you intend to move him to his own desk and presume to tell him he fell asleep while on duty. That will not go down well. He's suicidal and doesn't like being here, as much as we do. However, as you saw, he is efficient. Of course, from your perspective that's logical, as he is Tal Shiar. And as you once pointed out, once Tal Shiar, always Tal Shiar."

[Deleted]

Tyr listened patiently perched on the biobed as the Commodore asked away. Well, he had been invited to. Some statements smarted a little, but most were valid questions. As he listened to the last puzzling statement, he stood up again and began his response.

"Alright Commodore, now you have asked me for a small report, I may as well give you one. Believe me when I say I do not plan on telling anyone else on this base about my true identity. I only informed ambassador Tedak as I was under the impression I could trust him. I regret to say that I was mistaken. However in my line of work you become accustomed to simply learning from your mistakes and getting on with things. I assure you, from now on you will never see any mistakes made by me again. Nor will those people who are looking for them" He moved closer to Savali and lowered his voice.

"What you need to appreciate Commodore is that Starfleet Intelligence is in the middle of a war right now, one in which it has enemies both outside and in. Starfleet IAD is not on the same side as us any more, and we are having to contend with both them, and the influences of several foreign powers. A long time ago, you and I both swore oaths of loyalty, to protect the Federation from all threats, both foreign and domestic, and this is one of those times when that oath applies. I don't know whatever contact you've had with SI before, but we are not Section 31, and I find it insulting that we are associated with them. The fleet has the luxury of being able to see things in clear cut terms. The people who you're sent to war against are the bad guys, and everyone else are the good guys. Black and white. Unfortunately, people like me have to get very dirty in a variety of shades of grey, so that people like you can debate about morality and fair play" He paused, breathing heavily, all his bitterness over his work coming to the fore.
"I will protect the Federation and what it stands for by any and all means necessary, and when I have preserved your right to lecture me about my inhumanity by behaving in such a way, then you can lock me away for as along as you like"

He took a step back from Savali's face, and turned to face Ezdreiana.

"Ambassador, whilst I've probably jsut shattered any trustworthy image of myself, I want to assure you I had no part in whatever occured to you. My revelation probably does explain how I was able to overcome you though, but I had nothing to do with causing it. Whilst intelligence operatives do tend to have to get themselves caught up in situations to make their stories plausible, we do try and stop short of getting ourselves shot" He smiled a little.

"I'll arrange a meeting with Major K'Tar and Ambassador Tedak for you Commodore, and a meeting between us, K'Tar and Elder Ji'Zhan, ambassador. And seeing as how I can guess you're not going to tell me who you owe the favour to, I'll leave now"

As he turned to the door, he halted for a moment, and looked back.

"It's been said, but i'll say it again. My presence here is to ensure Federation security, not make enemies or start wars. I'm here for people like you and your safety. You don't have to like me or what I do, but please try and understand why I do it" His moment of emotional weakness past, he departed.

~The DCS Embassy~

Tyr entered his office at the embassy and slumped in his chair. That had been draining, but at least he thought he had achieved some level of support from the Commodore, and at least Ezdreiana's discression. He tapped the comm panel.

"Lily, please send a message to Major K'Tar at the Romulan embassy. Ask him to come to my office at the DCS embassy, and tell him I have a good bottle of bloodwine if he does"

He tapped some other keys, and a comm link opened.

"Ambassador Tyr to Elder Ji'Zhan. Elder, would you care to join me at Hishar's for a drink, there are some matters I wish to discuss with you"

<TAG Elder Ji'Zhan>

[Deleted]

"The memory wipe may not be permanent however as long as you deny any and all knowledge of me ever being here... he cannot prove anything as there will not be any records to show i was ever here.", Saarok said

"You can tell him he tripped when he was entering your office and hit his head.", Saarok said maintaining an emotionless mask

"As far as me returning at some point is concerned... I can not say it being logical or illogical at this point", Saarok said, "But my path is not set in stone", he added

"I would pass on my condolences to Dr. Mercy and T'Val but as things are that would be highly illogical. I must take my leave now. Live long and prosper", Saarok said to his friend and a few moments later both he and the tricoder that was one the table vanished into thin air

[Deleted]

Frowning, Tedak knelt beside Govan again and slapped him sharply across his face. "Wake up," he told the officer. When the Romulan stirred, Tedak sat back, moving out of the major's reach just in case.

"You were stunned when you entered my office," the diplomat explained, "though that was partially my fault, you did save my life." Tedak held out a glass of water out to the other man, not caring whether he would accept or not.

When Govan gave him a questioning look, one mixed with fury, Tedak moved even further back, well out of his reach. "Someone beamed into my office, without being authorised to do so. You charged in just as this person was about to attack me. Your arrival distracted him, but a slight movement on my part distracted you and my assaillant managed to stun you. What is queer is that he didn't end up killing me as he intended to, while you were out of the way."

He raised an eyebrow at Govan, wondering whether the major would accept his story. "However, I do owe you my life now, and for that I thank you."

[Deleted]

Still breathing heavily and desperately wanting to hurt the arrogant Vulcan, Govan nevertheless reluctantly released the Ambassador and stepped back. Keeping an eye on Saarok just in case he decided to make a move now that he wasn’t pinned, the Major backed up slowly until he was standing next to Tedak, who certainly was not looking well at all. The empty bottle and two glasses on the desk certainly seemed to confirm that he was indeed suffering from the effects of the ale and not poisoned or under duress from the intruder.

Govan was about to ask the Romulan Ambassador if he required any medical attention for his obviously less than stellar condition when the mysterious Vulcan spoke to him. The Major turned to find a weapon aimed directly at him, but it was too late to have a chance to respond. The weapon was fired, hitting the Romulan security officer square in the forehead, and then everything went dark.

~

At the slap across his face, Govan started and swung his fist almost automatically, coming within inches of the just out of reach Ambassador. Tedak was trying to explain what had happened, though his words didn’t seem to make any sense to Govan. Ignoring the offered water, the Major glared at him using fury to cover his immense confusion, as he was unwilling to admit that he couldn’t remember what had happened or how he’d gotten in the office. The last thing he remembered was standing guard outside while a human Commodore spoke with Tedak in his office.

Tedak wisely moved further away and continued to try and explain. "Someone beamed into my office, without being authorized to do so. You charged in just as this person was about to attack me. Your arrival distracted him, but a slight movement on my part distracted you and my assailant managed to stun you. What is queer is that he didn't end up killing me as he intended to while you were out of the way. However, I do owe you my life now, and for that I thank you."

Taking a few moments to reconcile what Tedak was saying with his lack of memory, Govan decided to just go with it and not make his vulnerability apparent. Better to not remember and pretend to rather than have Tedak know the truth and perhaps think of him as weak or ineffective. “I was just doing my job, Ambassador. Try not to distract me next time, though there really should not be a next time. Security in this embassy is clearly far too lax, which is something I fully intend to deal with in the very near future.”

Trying to stumble to his feet, slightly embarrassed at the idea of being caught off guard long enough to be stunned and his now disoriented state, Govan refused to accept any help including the offered glass of water. Once he managed to successfully stand on his own, head spinning and vision still a bit blurry, the Major turned his attention to the Ambassador and noted he looked how Govan felt. “Did he stun you too, Ambassador? Perhaps you should go to sickbay.”

[Deleted]

Carefully, Tedak shook his head. "No he didn't stun me. I was fortunate that he missed me because I lost my balance." He glanced over at the empty bottle, casting Govan a wry grin. "It seems that Commodore Savali can hold his liquor better than I can, because I am definitely feeling bordering on drunk."

Tiredly he rubbed his pounding temples. "Then again, I haven't had much sleep in the last few days, and adding the alcohol to that, it might just do the trick doesn't it?" He observed Govan watching him, knowing the other Romulan knew there was more going on than he was told.

"The intruder was Vulcan," he confided to Govan, "a very deranged Vulcan, I assume to be in his early 100s." He continued to give Govan a profile that was not nearly matching Saarok's description. "And he was using a nondescript weapon, I'm afraid I didn't get a good look at it. I agree with you though, security is far too lax on this station. This Vulcan easily could've killed me, or you, and Ambassador s'Khellian with it if he so chose."

[Deleted]

Govan glanced at the empty bottle on the desk and then back at Tedak as he explained why he was in his current condition and then described the attacker. While the ale was a reasonable and most likely accurate excuse for his appearance, it didn’t explain why the would be assassin didn’t just fire again to complete his task, nor why the weapon had been set on stun rather than kill in the first place. The Ambassador was being too helpful, providing too much information, and in the Major’s experience with conducting interrogations, when someone was being this forthcoming, they usually had something else to hide.

No matter what his suspicion, Govan knew that calling the Ambassador out for lying was impossible in this case. This wasn’t an interrogation, so without that power, the chances of learning what had really happened were slim. If only he could remember what had happened! Without his memories intact, the security officer could only go with what he was told, even if he didn’t think it was the truth. Still, Govan wasn’t about to just let it go that easily.

“It seems odd that this unknown attacker would have the ability to beam in without triggering any sort of alarm but would use a weapon set on stun and not even shoot the owner of the office he beamed in to. Makes me wonder what his purpose was, especially since his actions indicate he had the ability to do whatever he wanted, yet he didn’t actually appear to accomplish anything. Hard to be an expert and an amateur at the same time, wouldn’t you agree?”

Govan watched Tedak’s reaction very carefully, hoping he might give away some sort of indication of knowing more. It was then that the Major got another idea. “You know…if you think his intent was to kill you, which by what you told me certainly appears to be the case, perhaps it would be best to provide you with round the clock protection. I would certainly be available to provide this protection, just in case he tries it again. Do you think this is necessary, Ambassador?”

If Tedak said he didn’t think that was needed, he probably wasn’t telling everything he knew or perhaps was lying out right. If he was telling the truth, it would make sense to accept protection, which was something no one would agree to if it wasn’t necessary. Govan met Tedak’s gaze firmly, making sure the Ambassador realized the scrutiny his story was under and the implications of his answer. Even if he said no, there was nothing the Major could actually do about it, but Govan would know then that something more was most definitely going on here.

[Magellan Lin]

After his rounds of impromptu meetings in Hishars Magellan returned to Ops. F'rass had taken on most of the Operational duties on Assailant and found himself a little out of his depth. Zoilip had relieved him earlier and now Magellan was free he thought it only fair to take his turn in the nerve centre.

"Any problems?" he asked as he strolled in,

"Actually... yes. Well possibly. Long range sensors have picked up an uncoming ship. Its course is erratic."

Magellan looked at the small blip on the screen,

"Course?"

"Directly here, in fact if it carrys on without stopping it will pass directly though the habitat section."

Odd Magellan thought, it was a major conicidence that a ship could plot an intercept course at such a distance. Most craft warped into teh area, dropping to impulse as they neared and then re-orientated and docked.

"Any word on who they are?"

Zoilip shook his head, "Their transponder is not transmitting and they aren't responding to hails."

"No distress calls, No SOS?"

Zoilip again shook his head

"Are we expecting any ships"

"Only the Polotsky and she isnt due for a day or too. The mass register on this ship is way out to be her."

"A mystery then" Magellan mused, "Page Captain Voran and Mr Savali have them join us here."

TAG Elarus and Savali

[Deleted]

There was an unusual amount of commotion in the Embassy as Vebn arrived,

"Nelon...NELON" he shouted as he entered,

The diplomatic aide quickly appeared,

"Sir?"

"Whats going on?"

"Ambassador Tedak was attacked in his office by several Vulcans and Major Echal was injured fighting them."

Vebn looked at Nelon one eyebrow raised,
"Vulcans. Sit down Nelon and keep out the way. Ready my messages I will review them in a moment."

"Yes sir" Nelon nodded dutifully,

Silly old fool Vebn thought and went directly to Tedaks office.

"Vulcans attacking the Embassy attacking my staff" he queried
skeptically,

Tedak turned to see his boss and quickly set matters straight,
"One Vulcan and a minor accidental injury to Major Echal as he tried to protect me."

"I see that seems hardly more reasonable." Vebn answered "Did you know your assailant?"

TAG Tedak,

"So an unknown Vulcan attacks you? I thought you were a friend to them. Obviously not, perhaps there is hope for you yet. Nevertheless we cannot stand for an attack of this sort on our soil. Major Echal I want you to find out who gained access here. You will need to liase with Starfleet I expect.
I give you free reign however to apprehend and then...prosecute the intruder. In the meantime I believe this situation can be decidly turned to our diplomatic favour."

TAG Govan and Tedak

[Deleted]

“You know…if you think his intent was to kill you, which by what you told me certainly appears to be the case, perhaps it would be best to provide you with round the clock protection. I would certainly be available to provide this protection, just in case he tries it again. Do you think this is necessary, Ambassador?”

The Romulan diplomat hesitated, keeping his eyes on his 'opponent'. If he was guarded at all times, Saarok would not be able to get back if needed, but if he rejected the offer, Govan would be even more suspicious than he already appeared. He nodded solemnly, grabbing hold of his desk in the process. "Yes, I believe this is necessary," he answered quietly, "for he might come back and finish the job. Your intervention might have scared him into caution."

At that moment, Vebn rushed into his office starting his questions well before he came to a halt in front of the two men. Govan quickly explained what happened. "I see that seems hardly more reasonable." Vebn answered "Did you know your assailant?"

"No," Tedak lied, "He seemed familiar, but I can't say I know him. I might've seen him in passing some time ago." He pretended to be deep in thought for a few seconds. "No, I don't recall meeting him before today."

"So an unknown Vulcan attacks you? I thought you were a friend to them. Obviously not, perhaps there is hope for you yet. Nevertheless we cannot stand for an attack of this sort on our soil. Major Echal I want you to find out who gained access here. You will need to liase with Starfleet I expect. I give you free reign however to apprehend and then...prosecute the intruder. In the meantime I believe this situation can be decidly turned to our diplomatic favour."

"I am a friend to them," Tedak argued, "but not all of them are a friend to me. In fact, I have only two Vulcan friends and one I have not seen in months. The other I saw last night and is female, so she is ruled out for certain. I have no doubt that there are Vulcans who would love to see me killed and would be prepared to do just that themselves." He flashed Vebn a tired grin. "Besides, wouldn't that make your life a whole lot easier?"

He turned back to Govan. "Thank you again for coming to my aid. Now, I believe I should go to sickbay, I feel dizzy."

[Deleted]

‘So…this makes things more interesting…’ Govan thought. Not only had Tedak agreed to protection, but the interaction between the two Ambassadors indicated they weren’t exactly on the best of terms. It appeared that Vebn believed the story, perhaps being too caught up in the potential political ramifications of the attack to see the lie. Even though Tedak had agreed, the Major was still convinced he wasn’t being entirely honest. Nevertheless, there was no way to prove that.

In response to Ambassador S’Khellian’s orders, Govan nodded. “I will track down the perpetrator to the best of my abilities, Ambassador. I will also increase the security of the embassy to help prevent any future incursions. You may wish to assign yourself with a security detail. I have already committed to watching Ambassador Tedak, as he appeared to be the target of this attack.”

"Thank you again for coming to my aid. Now, I believe I should go to sickbay, I feel dizzy." One glance at Tedak confirmed that indeed he did not look well. Glancing back over at Vebn, Govan was torn between his duty to escort a clearly ill Tedak to sickbay and presenting his own requests to Vebn since the Ambassador had finally shown up, giving the security officer a chance to speak.

Reluctantly siding with duty, and deciding that perhaps given the circumstances Tedak would be more open to his requests, Govan nodded stoically. “Of course, Ambassador. I will ensure you arrive safely.” To Vebn, he added. “I will inform you of any information I come across and forward my plan for increasing security to the embassy as soon as possible.”

[Felix Savali]

Felix was still in sickbay talking to Ambassador Ezdreiana when he received a call from OPS to report there. Since his arrival he had yet to visit OPS. After excusing himself from Ambassador Ezdreiana, Felix departed from sickbay and set of towards the nearest personnel transport to get him up to OPS. After a shorter trip Felix finally arrived to OPS. As he entered the large room he was taken back for a moment with the large display showing the nearby nebula which was producing an interesting refraction effect from the light of the nearby star. He had forgotten what it all look like.

"Forgot what this room looks like, did you", Magellan question as Felix approached him and Zoillip

"Well you could say that, but some things are such that each time one sees them it feels like he is seeing them for the first time.", he said

"The message I received said there was a potential emergency taking place?", Felix questioned as he approached the display showing a course of a ship which appeared to be on a collision course with the station

<Tag Magellan, Voran>

[evoran]

Voran was on his way back to his ship, wondering what he was going to do with his free time on the station when he received a message from Zoilip telling him to report to Ops immediately. So, acknowledging the message, he turned around and made his way to Ops as quickly as he could.

Entering ops, among other familiar faces, Voran saw Magellan and Savali in discussion, they looked up as he entered.

Voran nodded curtly to Savali as he entered; he had not had the best of relationships with the Commodore, but, he was not one to hold grudges.

"Problems?" Voran asked simply.

Lin and Savali filled him in quickly.

"I'll have the Galaxy prepare for immediate departure." Said Voran. Then, he tapped his combadge, "Voran to Harris, recall all essential personnel and prepare for immediate departure."

"Aye sir." Came the response of his first officer.

<Magellan, Felix>

[Magellan Lin]

Felix arrived first not long followed by Voran. The current predicament was quickly outlined and the Galaxy cleared for action.

"Just go take a look for us Voran" Magellan said, "She isnt responding to our hails and doesnt seem to be altering course. Be careful of a trap though - with what the Klingons have been up to lately I m sure the Tholians are ready for a bit of tit for tat." and theres the Kasan-thar he thought grimly to himself. He was not convinced that they would remain in their space especially not after Ramsey of the Nevada had let slip that a Federation Ship had possibly killed their god.

"Will do" Voran nodded, "Nice and easy. You want to come Commodore?"

TAG Felix and Voran.

OCC: I have PMd Voran about what is on the ship etc etc

[Felix Savali]

"Should be nice to be on something that actually moves through space for a change", Felix responded to Voran's question

"Lead the way Captain.", Felix said

After the final discussions with Admiral Lin were completed, Captain Voran led the way and the two officers went on their way to the Galaxy

<Tag Voran>

[evoran]

The USS Galaxy sped through space with as much power as her three nacelles could muster. Suddenly, as she caught up with her quarry, she dropped out of warp and assumed a parallel course.

On the bridge, Captain Voran was sitting in the centre seat. On his right hand side was his first officer, Kyle Harris, on his left, sitting in the hitherto vacant counselor's chair was Commodore Savali.

"Are they responding to our hails?" Asked Harris.

"No sir," reported Lieutenant Morley, the tactical officer, "I'm not detecting any lifesigns, however I can now read her hull markings; EMS Celestial Mary, NFT-80397."

"Mr Vatrax," Voran addressed the Denobulan operations officer, "pull up the Celestial Mary's records and put them on the viewscreen."

Vatrax complied and the vessel's details were displayed on the viewscreen:

Name: EMS Celestial Mary
Registry: NFT-80397
Registered to: Cunard Space Line, Earth, Sol Sector
Mission: Passenger and Cargo transport
Commanding Officer: Alvin McAllister
First Officer: Devindra Petty
Crew: 312
Passenger Capacity: 670

"Anything else you can tell us Vatrax?" asked Voran.

"Only that the Celestial Mary's last mission took her close to the Romulan border." replied the Denobulan.

"Well, I guess we'd better get over there and have a look," said Voran, "Vatrax, Morley - you're with me, Commodore, if you'd care to join us?"

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

They materialised on the bridge of the space liner, it was deserted, as predicted.

"Vatrax, stop this ship and see if you can access their logs." Ordered Voran.

Vatrax moved to work one of the ship's consoles and after a moment he exclaimed in surprise, "Sir, I can't access any systems; they've all been locked out with a Romulan encryption code!"

"Romulans, eh?" Said Voran with less surprise than Vatrax. He had suspected that they might come into this ever since Vatrax had mentioned them on the bridge of the Galaxy. Although Starfleet was always trying to move towards better diplomatic relations with the Romulans these days, Voran had never quite managed to bring himself to trust them, perhaps it was because he had lived through the Romulan War, or perhaps it was due to one of the many encounters he had had with them over the years, "What do you make of that, Commodore?"

<Savali>