5.2 Grounded

[Felix Savali]

After Magellan departed to meet the new Cardassian delegation, Felix was left in the improvised operations center to oversee the activities. There was much work to be done and limited resources to do them with considering that most of the relays for the vast sensor grid that scaned over an area of several light years were on assaillant and were damaged, they had to make due with what they had.

"Hey, look out with that", Felix yelled at one of the engineers who was climbing up a ladder trying to fix several thick optic cables to the wall.

And soon did he say it as in the next moment the cables started to slip from the mans hands and in an attempt to catch them he fell of the ladder along with the cables, and wouldn't you know the cables and the man landed on Felix smashing together with him in a nearby console.

Several people ran over to help and they lifted the cables and the man of Felix. The man seemd to be unhurt, of course he was unhurt Felix thought he used me as a safety net.

"Are you allright Commodore"; one of the man who ran over to help asked

"I'm fine", Felix said

"Sir, you seem to have cut your arm, and by the looks of it you should visit the doctor", the man said

Felix was about to complain as he looked at his arm from which blood was running with some intensity. Damn, Felix thought i must've hurt the artery. Before much else happened one of the officers ripped of a strip of their uniform and bounded his wound compressing it and stopping the bleeding for now. And another one already called for medical assistance.

"Let us help you up sir", a man said as he and another girl got him up to his feet and set him down in a nearby chair

"Sorry sir", the man who fell on top of him apologized

"Well it wasn't your fault", Felix said although he had in mind to smack that clumsy engineer on the back of the head, "It was an accident"

Soon after that the medical team was finally transported in, as it happened Felix crashed into the transporter control console and it took them a bit to restore the transport systems and beam in some help.

<Tag Medical team>

[Deleted]

T'Val sighed as the call came in; though she had no actual patients right now, she and Rayna still had a hospital to run, especially with Stuart still absent. She was made keenly aware of his absence when she realised that she hadn't heard anything from him for days now, and Lin had never returned her call.

"Mercy here, I am on my way." She used the installed computer system to locate Commodore Savali, grabbed her medkit and rushed out. Realising this was plain silly, she tapped her combadge. "Computer one to transport to Commodore Savali's location." She felt the discomfortable sensation of being transported, and barely contained a sigh of relief when the transporter delivered her to her destination in one piece.

She bodily shoved a few people aside so she could reach the injured Human. "What happened?" she queried, hoping someone would be sensible enough to respond. "Lower him to the deck and allow me room to examine him," she then ordered. "And someone inform Admiral Lin that there has been an accident!"

The Vulcan knelt down to the still unconscious Human, somewhere relieved that he was indeed unconscious so she could examine him without him complaining he didn't need to be treated. Upon examining his arm, she noticed he had been bleeding copiously by the state of his drenched sleeve, though someone'd had the sense to apply a tourniquet. "Whoever did that, saved his life," she announced, taking out her tricorder. "I am taking him to sickbay."

Seconds later, the two re-materialised in sickbay, where Savali was immediately placed on a biobed. The transportation seemed to have roused him as he stirred on the bed. "Lay still commodore," she admonished her patient, "you were badly injured though we have it under control. You lost a fair amount of blood, I suggest you remain still to avoid a dizzy spell."

As was with any command-grade officer, the commodore wouldn't listen and tried to sit up anyway, resulting in him dropping back to the bed almost immediately. T'Val cast him an 'I told you so' look before returning to repairing the damage to his arm.

I the mean time, Rayna had called up his chart, cross checked it with T'Val's readings and nodded to herself. "He's type 0 positive," she reported, "I've ordered two units of packed cells. Cross match may take a minute but they'll be here shortly."

"Thank you Rayna. Now commodore, please tell me what exactly happened." She needed to test his memory, just in case. "You appear to be both burned and cut, but I cannot determine the cause of injury as you seem to have further complicated your injury during your fall against the console."

Rayna approached a minute later with the two units of packed cells and deftly applied the needle to the Human's vein, through which the cells, along with a saline diluent containing an anti-coagulant, would be delivered to his venous system.

That done, T'Val walked back to her own console. "Computer, contact Admiral Lin, emergency override." The image of the Trill appeared on screen. "Admiral, I apologise for disturbing you, however Commodore Savali was severely injured several minutes ago. I have transported him to sickbay and he has regained consciousness. I presume you would like to talk to him."

She paused. "Additionally, has there been any word from my husband? It has been three days now, and I have not heard from him since his departure. I am truly getting worried about him, he is not allowing me to sense him at present." She paused again, worry clearly visible on her otherwise emotionless features. "That, or he is unconscious...or worse." She didn't even want to think about it, knowing she'd know if he had been killed.

[Felix Savali]

"I'm alright", Felix said as he was trying to get up but got dizzy and collapsed back on the bed

Ok maybe not that good he thought, "Thank you for the help Doctor", Felix said to the Vulcan female, "Now tell me, when exactly will i be able to get out of here", he questioned

But the doctor didn't seem to hear him at all, she instead went on to contact Admiral Lin. Typical he thought, women, always overreacting over silly cuts and bruises. And as he was saying that Joann Lawrence rushed into the hospital and stormed past the Vulcan doctor.

"Oh Felix you're ok", She said as she hugged him

"Ouch, not that hard the arms still sensitive and the needle in there doesnt help either", he said

"Oh right sorry", She said as she let him go, "What happened", she questioned

"One at a time.", he said, "I'm fine admiral", he yelled over to the computer terminal on which the Vulcan doctor was talking to T'Val, "It was just a minor accident, one of the engineers fell of a ladder and crashed onto me after which i ended up crashing in a transporter control console which broke and a piece of the panel cut my arm", he said satisfying the curiosity of everyone present, actually or over a comm channel

<Tag all>

[Magellan Lin]

The squat boxlike shuttle decelerated from orbit and headed in a circular descent towards the large duracrete landing pad.
The landing pad had originally been designed only to handle the few shuttles and cargo runners that had supplied the original science hab-dome. But with the return of the Debrune and the successful terraforming the small patch was woefully inadequate.

A simple terminal building existed in one corner where a team of Starfleet and Debrune Security officers operated a simple customs check point. It was here Saarok and Magellan were stood. Beside them was a debruni diplomat who Ji'Zahn had sent and Major K'tar somewhat the worse the wear for drink once more. Discreetly in the background Sharon Vanetti stood with an armed security detail.

"On time indeed" Magellan agreed, "The Union is somewhat different these days. Though I suspect much of the prejudices still exist. I know I m still uneasy about them"

"The Dominion War was a long time ago" Saarok reminded him,

Magellan shrugged,

"Maybe but it left a lot of scars. And not all of Cardassia is as united as the Detapa Council makes out."

"That is the same for all governments at present ours included. Rogue elements seem to be everywhere."

Magellan was about to ask him what he mean't when the shuttle touched down. A pair of Debruni yard workers dashed out beneath the declining whir of the engines to bring up an exit ladder and open the door.

First to emerge were a Gul and a pair of Glinns. They exited warily and took up position close to the exit. The Gul looked over at the welcoming committee and gave a nod of greeting. He then ducked back inside. He returned accompanied by an older Cardassian with greying hair and thick set cranial ridges. He wore an ill fitting Legates uniform and looked decidedly uncomfortable.

"Your best smile" Saarok noted dryly to Magellan and moved forward to great their guests.

The Legate and Gul crossed the duracrete and were within arms length of Saarok and Magellan when the engines of the shuttle changed drastically in pitch. The was a high pitched whine as if something was powering up. The Gul grabbed the Legate and threw him to the ground as the shuttle exploded in a ball of fire. The side hatches were ripped free and crashed into the Glinns. Saarok and Magellan were knocked over by the blast wave.

Staggering to his feet Magellan was able to see Vanetti had already established a cordon and was helping the legate to his feet. The Gul was not so lucky, he back had been laid open to teh spine. Saarok bent quickly at his side,

"He's alive...barely."

"Security Protocol Alpha 6 Commander" Magellan ordered Sharon, She grabbed the Legate and Saarok, one in each arm and with the security team in tow dashed for the main hab dome.

Magellan tapped his comm badge.

"Magellan to sickbay. Emergency Medical Team to the Landing Pad. Security to high alert."

He then crouched beside the Gul and plunged his hands on to the mand body hoping to staunch some of the flowing blood that now trickled on to the duracrete.

***

From high up on the ridge V'Shal lay prone her macro binoculars pressed to her eyes.

The explosion had occured too late. Thats what came from rushing. Tedak and his little rescue party had located Vebn quicker than she had planned. She touched her communicator.
"The bomb failed. They now have the Legate inside the habdome"

There was a pause and the Jolene replied,
"They have also rescued my Father. I am extracting my people as we speak. "

"Job done then"

"No. The Tal Shair were paying you to kill the Legate. You ll only get paid once that is done."

V'shal snorted angrily,
"That will be more difficult. I have played my hand now and Saarok, my husband has arrived. He is quite good at thwarting my plans"

"Get it done and we'll double our price. We'll meet again V'Shal... do not fail me."

TAG ALL

[Deleted]

"Landing pad," T'Val repeated, "acknowledged admiral." She turned back to Rayna and signaled for her to remain with Savali. "Do not get up commodore, Rayna will not hesitate to sedate you. If you need me, just page me all right?"

She walked up to Rayna. "Release him when he is well enough, but not before," she signaled, using the basic handsignals the Romulan had taught her. The younger woman's hearing was still severely damaged and she had learned that she'd never regain her full hearing again. Therefor, handsignals were taught to cover for her loss of hearing.

"Understood," the Romulan nurse replied, turning back to fuss over her brass patient.

T'Val grabbed her medkit yet again, gathered her trauma nurses, activated the EMH just in case, then transported to the landing pad. There, her first concern were the admiral and the ambassador though quick examination uncovered that they were relatively unhurt. Through the first rules of triage, she left one nurse to tend to the both of them, while two other nurses tended to the two Cardassian Glinns.

The Vulcan herself knelt next to the Cardassian Gul, while pulling a pair of gloves over her slender fingers. She examined the injury, pulled a few fragments from the injured Cardasssian's back and slid them into a small container, before holding it up for a security officer to accept and take away for forensic examination.

His back was badly lacerated and there was blood pooling around him. Quickly, she injected him with several doses of coagulant before padding up the injury to absorb as much blood as possible while providing a slight means of protection. Once she had him stabilised, she rose to her feet to face the Admiral and diplomat. "There is a slight chance he might make it," she reported, "but I do express that the chance is indeed slight. His action, however does seem to have saved the Legate's life, for which the Legate surely must be grateful."

She watched as two nurses now attended to the Gul and transported him away. "Report to sickbay once you are done here," she continued, "while I trust my nurses I would examine both of you myself, just in case. The Gul will be receiving top care, and we will do everything we can to save him."

She paused, her expression anxious. "It is unfortunate that Stuart chose now to go away on a personal mission," she stated gravely. "Commodore Savali was injured earlier, as I reported, and now your Cardassian guests were injured as well. And I have not heard from Stuart in days, I am extremely worried, and I fear we have not yet seen the worst of it either. If I were superstitious, I would say this was a bad omen."

[Deleted]

Saarok and the Legate were rushed, with a cordon of security officers, into the HabDome where they would be safe, at least that is what the security chief thought. As they were rushed in Saarok frred himself from Sharon's hold on his robes and dusted them down.

"Thank you Commander"; he said, "But i can manage from here."

Then he looked over to the graying Legate.

"Is there something you neglected to mention to our diplomatic core when you were selected to represent the Cardassian people?", Saarok questioned the man

<Tag Legate>

"I see", Saarok said after listening to the man's story

"So you are claiming you have not received any death treats prior to this incident and here all of a sudden your shuttle exploded for no reason?"

<Tag Legate>

"Tell me, do you perhaps represent a political view that could make some other powers feel like they are loosing their influence on the interstellar politics in this region", Saarok questioned

<Tag Legate>

Saarok took all this into account and then it dawned on him. V'Shal of course, that woman was behind this. And the kidnapping, of course.

=/\=Saarok to Magellan, i need to speak to you at once=/\=

=/\=Magellan here, I'll be right there=/\=

After Magellan took care of everything he could at the explosion site, he went into the HabDome and went to meet with Saarok.

"Legate, if you would excuse us", Saarok said to the man as he and Magellan went over to the side

"I have given some thought to the incident that just took place and have reached certain conclusions.", Saarok said

"Yes, go on", Magellan countered

"V'Shal kidnapped the Romulan ambassador to keep him safe from the explosion that happened here, for if he was here he would have certainly come to meet the new Cardassian delegation. Therefore it is logical to assume that here employers do not wish any harm to befall the Romulan, which then leads us to the conclusion that her employers are either Romulan themselves or are working for them and have been tasked with ensuring the safety of the Romulan delegation while they get rid of the rest of us."; Saarok said

<Tag Magellan>

[Deleted]

Within half an hour since the attack had been made, the last of the explosives were being beamed aboard a large Federation shuttlecraft which had bored a hole through the ceiling of the cavern. The rescue party, Romulans and all were then beamed aboard the shuttle, which immediately set a course back for the HabDome. The room inside was a little cramped, with the seven officers, three Romulans, and a little under 200 isotonnes of explosives all confined to a relatively small area. As they were now free of the kemocite deposits, Tyr opted to draw his tricorder, and to make a formal scan of the recovered equipment. He ran the tricorder across the entire length of each one of the containers, checking both for any additional devices, impurities and for any decreased mass.

"Good news and bad news" he announced to the entire shuttle ""The good news is that nothing here is rigged to explode, and that the explosives haven't become unstable. Bad news. We're down to 163 isotonnes. So, removing the unknown amount that was probably used on the Celestial Mary, we could have anything up to 30 or more isotonnes of explosives still out there"

<TAG Tedak, Govan and Vebn>

The shuttle sped back across the varying terraformed surfaces of Qualinost, heading for the more northerly part of the planet, until finally it emerged at the HabDome where all the displaced Assailant personnel were being housed. Looking out of the front viewer as the pilot requested permission to land, Tyr was shocked to see a scattering of explosive debris littering the landing pad which they had been approaching.

=/\=Attention shuttle Oddyseus, be advised you are to come about to heading 135 mark 01 and proceed to landing area Gamma 12=/\=

=/\=Copy that HabDome control, moving to new landing point=/\=

Tyr's view of the damage on the ground was obstructed as the shuttle turned and headed away. He made a mental note to ensure that he immediately found out what had been going on. The shuttle proceeded to land, and as the door opened, the crew dismounted. Tyr turned back to face the pilot.

"Stay with this cargo, and call Commander Vanetti to send an armed detail to place this in secure holding"

"Yes ambassador"

Tyr left at a trot, catching up with his special operations team. Zoilip and the Romulans had already departed, probably to see to their own affairs, or to make their own reports to whoever they planned to.

"You might want to stick around for a while" Tyr informed the team leader in hushed tones "Please wait in the DCS section, if anyone asks, tell them you're waiting for me about some import documents. I'll contact you shortly"

He moved away from the group, remembering to conceal the phaser he now carried beneath his jacket. Once again he was a humble diplomatic officer, nothing of any particular importance, and certainly not the person who should wander around waving a phaser. He walked across the length of the compound, until he came up to a security cordon which had been thrown around the explosion site. Most of the crowd had moved on by now, the explosion having long since transpired, but Tyr could still move inconspicuously amongst those that remained, observing the wreckage. It appeared to be a Cardassian shuttle, large, long haul design and of military origin. He grimaced at the thought of Cardassian's being here, his memories of his teenage years during the war still fresh in his mind. He stalked away from the perimeter, looking around for a member of the diplomatic corps who he could ask about this. Not to far in he stopped a young Bolian by the name of Tham, one of the DCS researchers.

"Tham, what's all this" he vaguely gestured in the direction of the shuttle "Were they shot down"

"No ambassador, much worse. This is the new Cardassian delegation. The shuttle blew up just as they'd dismounted. One of the officers saved the senior delegate"

"Shame" Tyr muttered darkly, not particularly happy that another Cardassian hadn't gotten his. He quickly backtracked upon seeing the Bolian's face "..that something like this can happen. What is this sector coming to? Anyway thank you, I have to report to the Admiral"

"Yes ambassador, by the way, Ambassador Saarok is back. He's somewhere with the admiral now. You won't have met him, but he's the senior Federation ambassador here"

As the Bolian left, Tyr was wide eyed with shock. He had not met the Vulcan ambassador indeed, but had heard and read of his work. Not in the field of diplomacy of course, but his exploits and theories were required reading when training for SI. He proceeded into the HabDome, and soon found the Trill and Vulcan talking not too far from the Cardassian. He smoothed his jacket and moved forwards, coming slightly to atteniton before the two men.

"My apologies for inerrupting sirs. Admiral, we've recovered both Ambassador s'Khellian and the explosives, though we are roughly 30 istonnes short, although I can see you might have suspected that" he paused referencing the shuttle "I was however unable to capture the Tal Shiar operative who Ambassador Tedak mentioned, and she is still at large, although in theory still on the planet. Will you be requiring my assisstance in regards to the investigation of the shuttle sir?"

<TAG Admiral Lin>

He turend to see Saarok.

"Ambassador, I would just like to say how much I have admired your work over the years" he added in an undertone "I believe we might have shared one or two similar occupations in the past. I can only hope to emulate your skill"

<TAG Saarok>

[Deleted]

ooc: rewritten to include klingon, exclude cardassian, upon magellan's request.

ic:
Finally, the shuttlecraft landed at the habdome and Tedak hurried off, eager to be as far away from Tyr as was possible. Though, he wouldn't nor couldn't leave Vebn behind and he didn't want him to be alone with Govan for too long either. The Romulan security officer's temper was volatile, and knowing Vebn had a temper to match, he knew it'd come to blows at any given time.

Not that he considered himself to be much of a buffer, the diplomat knew that he would be able to keep them apart if necessary, even if only for a short period. Though well trained, physically he was no match for either since he preferred not to engage in a fight if possible.

Having learned that Saarok had come back, Tedak watched his loyal brown wink out, no doubt in search for the Vulcan's golden pet. Shaking his head in bemusement, Tedak first headed for his temporary quarters to get a much needed shower and change of clothes. Then, he would seek out his old friend.

He was halfway on his way home, when he suddenly froze, watching a small group of Humans approach from the opposite direction; they were obviously reporters of some sort. With the kidnapping of the senior Romulan diplomat, from what Tedak had learned, he did understand they would want to know more about it. What he hadn't expected, was that they would be so quick to want the details to gossip. Humans did gossip, and plenty, Tedak had learned by just observing them in the observation lounge and several other places back on Assailant, as well as here on Qualinost.

The Romulan recomposed himself, drew himself up to his full height and continued his way as though his shock had never occurred. Though he dealt with Humans on a more frequent basis than any other species, he wasn’t really in the mood to talk to them just yet. Much to his chargrin, one of the Humans beelined straight for him, matching his stride and direction as he tried to step aside. "Can I help you?" he finally growled, eager to get home and just to be left alone for now.

The Human’s expression was one of recognition, though Tedak had no idea who he was. "You don't recognise me, do you, Ambassador Tedak ir-Saj'sihaer tr'H'Rhinann."

Tedak looked up, catching the Human's bemused gaze. There weren't many that knew his complete name, let alone Humans. There was, in fact only one Human that did know his full name, and that was Stuart Mercy. And if he had, it had been too long ago. Confused, the Romulan shook his head. "Should I? Where did you learn my name?"

”Never mind then. My name is Barry Jones and I work for the Federation Correspondence Agency. I’ve been here before, but I suppose you don’t remember me. But I learned a lot about you...more than you’d want to have public.”

Then it dawned on him and Tedak smiled thinly. "Ah yes, I remember now." They continued to walk together, towards the Romulan's quarters. In fact, Tedak did not remember but it was safer to just play along. “You haven’t explained why you’re here, and what you want with me.”

"After the attack on the Legate, I contacted my bosses back on Earth, and they want a cover story,” Jones explained, "I was on my way to see Admiral Lin to ask him a few questions, when we came across you." They entered the Romulan's quarters. "And we should go see him as soon as possible."

"I will have a quick change of attire," Tedak offered, though he was in no way intending to be of any help to a reporter, "wait here and don’t touch anything." He nodded towards Sev, who chirped in response. “Watch him,” he told the small bronze. Ten minutes later, he returned, looking refreshed and dressed in a deep blue robe. "I believe Admiral Lin was transported to sickbay, if I read the reports correctly, though knowing him he could also be in OPS."

Quietly, he tapped his combadge. "Ambassador Tedak to Admiral Lin. I have a visitor who would meet with you, though I don’t think you’d want to meet with him... Where may we join you? Somewhere private would be most ideal."

[Deleted]

He turned to see Saarok.

"Ambassador, I would just like to say how much I have admired your work over the years" he added in an undertone "I believe we might have shared one or two similar occupations in the past. I can only hope to emulate your skill"

"Mr. Tyr i presume", Saarok said as he turned to see the man and continued without waiting for confirmation, for he knew the man before him was the person in question

"Diplomacy is a peculiar thing Mr. Tyr, it takes patience, a lot of patience. And the moment you master the art of patience is the moment in which you will master the art itself.", he said

<Tag Tyr/Everyone>

[Magellan Lin]

Damok was unsure what was happening, one minute he was walking and then being thrown to the ground by Gul Maraset, now he was soemwhere else entirely being interogated by the Federation Ambassador.

"Is there something you neglected to mention to our diplomatic core when you were selected to represent the Cardassian people?", Saarok questioned the man

Damok frowned,
"Nothing at all. This accident is most disturbing. A most unfortunate start to a diplomatic mission"

"I see", Saarok said after listening to the man's story

"So you are claiming you have not received any death treats prior to this incident and here all of a sudden your shuttle exploded for no reason?"

The Legate looked quite flustered,

"Death threats? A man of my stature and past... I was part of the old order always has death threats. Its an occupational hazards. Our files suggest you must have more than a few yourself."

"Tell me, do you perhaps represent a political view that could make some other powers feel like they are loosing their influence on the interstellar politics in this region", Saarok questioned

Damom shook his head then shrugged,
"Its possible I suppose. Cardassia is just beginning to re-emerge from benath the damage the war did. Our econmy is imrpoving and we have nearly finished war reparations. Perhaps someone doesnt want Cardassians back on the stage."

Saarok took all this into account and then it dawned on him. V'Shal of course, that woman was behind this. And the kidnapping, of course.

=/\=Saarok to Magellan, i need to speak to you at once=/\=

=/\=Magellan here, I'll be right there=/\=

After Magellan took care of everything he could at the explosion site, he went into the HabDome and went to meet with Saarok.

"Legate, if you would excuse us", Saarok said to the man as he and Magellan went over to the side

"I have given some thought to the incident that just took place and have reached certain conclusions.", Saarok said

"Yes, go on", Magellan countered

"V'Shal kidnapped the Romulan ambassador to keep him safe from the explosion that happened here, for if he was here he would have certainly come to meet the new Cardassian delegation. Therefore it is logical to assume that her employers do not wish any harm to befall the Romulan, which then leads us to the conclusion that her employers are either Romulan themselves or are working for them and have been tasked with ensuring the safety of the Romulan delegation while they get rid of the rest of us."; Saarok said

"It does sound very much like her method of operation. The question is why? The cardassians are no threat to the Romulans. They have their own problems to attend to."

Saarok paused a moment in deep thought.

"It is possible the Government sees them ideaological enemies. We know there is a growing Reunifcation movement on Romulus, The Cardassians have shown how a people can over throw its Militaristic government. That is a powerful example"

Magellan thought it over but shook his head,

"Thats a little subtle don't you think. But I suppose V'shals true agenda is never seen. Any chance we can out pay the Tal Shiar and persuade her to leave?"

Saarok seemed to chuckle,

"That would go against her professional standards and besides we would have to find her first."

"Very true" Magellan agreed as Tyr returned.

"My apologies for inerrupting sirs. Admiral, we've recovered both Ambassador s'Khellian and the explosives, though we are roughly 30 istonnes short, although I can see you might have suspected that" he paused referencing the shuttle "I was however unable to capture the Tal Shiar operative who Ambassador Tedak mentioned, and she is still at large, although in theory still on the planet. Will you be requiring my assisstance in regards to the investigation of the shuttle sir?"

"Hmm 30 Isotonnes, probably just enough to cause the damage to the shuttle. V'Shal is indeed still at large. Did you manage to apprehend any of the captors, well never mind. As for assitance yes you might come in handy. I can't really demand answers from Vebn or even Tedak, but perhaps as a diplomat you could find out more about the kidnapping. Saarok suspects there was more to it."

He turend to see Saarok.

"Ambassador, I would just like to say how much I have admired your work over the years" he added in an undertone "I believe we might have shared one or two similar occupations in the past. I can only hope to emulate your skill"

Whilst Saarok and Tyr spoke Magellans comm badge chirped,

"Ambassador Tedak to Admiral Lin. I have a visitor who would meet with you, though I don’t think you’d want to meet with him... Where may we join you? Somewhere private would be most ideal."

"Very well Ambassador I ll meet you at the rear entrance to tehe HAb dome."

He turned back to Tyr and Saarok,
"I have an appointment. Good luck gentleman, keep me informed."

The rear of the Hab dome was stil very much a mess, there were piles of crates and all sorts of abandoned vehicles that had been used at various stages of the terraforming process.

By the time he reached the door, Tedak and a man Magellan knew as a reporter were already waiting.

"Ah Mr Jones. Keeping well I hope"

"Very" The man replied, "Would you like to comment on the explosion?"

"Only to say No comment as yet" Magellan smiled dryly,

"Oh come on Admiral, you seem quite happy to leak information to Aiken Drolar"

Magellan smiled again,

"If and its a big If I leak information to a rival reporter it maybe because he has proved himself more useful."

Jones looked annoyed,
"What can you tell me?"

Magellan looked around and winked at Tedak,

"Okay I l give you an exclusive."

Barry grined and powered up his recorder,

"Approximatly 90 minutes ago a Cardassian Shuttle exploded shortly after landing. There were casualties but no fatalities. Invetsigations are continuing. There now if you dont mind Mr Jones, I am a very busy man"

Jones scowled,
"Thats hardly a newsflash"

"I ll hold a full Press Conference Tomorrow, when we know more"

"You mean when you ve had time to cover it up"

Magellan waggled a finger at Barry,

"Perhaps it cynicism like that that keeps you from my good side."

He turned away and motioned for Tedak to follow him,

"I dont know if your aware, but V'Shal was invloved in Vebns abduction. I thought you should know, given your history. Oh and Saaroks back, impeccable timing as usual."

TAG All

[Deleted]

Relieved to be finally rid of the pesky reporter, the Romulan followed the Trill admiral down the corridor. "Sir?" he queried, wondering why he would be asked to follow. He knew that Lin didn't quite trust him, or that it at least took a while to take his words for granted.

"I dont know if your aware, but V'Shal was invloved in Vebns abduction. I thought you should know, given your history. Oh and Saaroks back, impeccable timing as usual."

"Yes I knew," Tedak answered slowly, meeting the admiral's eyes. "She contacted me when she had abducted Ambassador s'Khellian and informed me not to tell anyone. Major Echal was just outside when she contacted me. However there was no point in showing anyone the message as it was destroyed."

Seeing the admiral's look of disbelief, Tedak shrugged. "I could show you the remains of my computer terminal," he offered, "but there isn't much left of it but a smouldering heap of metal and circuits. Nolan wasn't too pleased when he saw either." Again, he shrugged. "I'm just relieved no-one go injured when my terminal exploded."

He stopped walking and turned to fully face the Trill. "Echal and I took a shuttle to go find the ambassador, after that, you pretty much know what happened. I have not seen Vebn since coming back here. I was just about ambushed by that reporter before I had the chance to even clean up and I have yet get the opportunity to find something to eat. If you want a full report, I suggest you arrange a debriefing, otherwise, I would like to get something to eat now. Good day admiral."

The Romulan turned and started to walk away.

[Deleted]

Immediatly Tedaks shuttle landed back at the Hab dome Vebns feet barely touched the ground. Major Echal whisked straight into the make shift embassy where Nelon clucked about him like an old mother hen.

"I m fine" he growled as the aide tugged at the dirty cloak at Vebns shoulders. "Leave us"

Nelon bobbed and then departed leaving Vebn alone with his minder.

"Whats happened?"

"An assassination attempt on the Cardassians" Govan replied with his usual economy of words.

"Successful?"

"No. The bomb went off late. I imagine it was installed hastily."

"Hastily because your rescue of me moved their timetable up"

"And who exactly were they."

Vebn looked around as if he could detect bugs just by sight,

"A woman known as V'Shal, an independant contractor and...my daughter a Major in the Tal Shiar."

"So your kidnap was government sanctioned?"

Vebn shrugged,

"Government, Tal Shiar who knows. My daughter seemed to wish me no harm in fact the kidnap may have been to protect me - ensuring I wasn't at the landing."

"She could just have warned you"

Vebn laughed, "Not my little girl. She used my kidnap as a way to distract security. Shes not afraid to use anyone for tactical advantage"

"I see"

"Well I hope we do. Your rescue may well have ruined our own governments plans. I wil contact my superiors to see if its officially sanctioned. You must locate V'Shal and do what ever is necessary to ensure her goals are met. Do you understand?"

TAG Govan

"Oh and try and involving Tedak, his human loving side will not allow him to help. He has worked against us too many times before in favour of the Federation."

TAG Govan

[Deleted]

Govan had remained very quiet on their way back to the shuttle and then again on their flight back to the Habdome. A flicker of a wince crossed his generally stoic face when Tedak assisted Tyr in contacting Admiral Lin. As much as he had to put personal feelings aside and continue to guard the Ambassador, Major Echal was of the opinion that Tedak was far too pro-Federation for his taste, and didn’t seem to think things all the way through when asked to help them, even when it was Ambassador Tyr doing the asking. Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on your prospective, it wasn’t the Tal Shiar agent’s place to say anything, and even if it were, Tyr and the others around would make any sort of word of caution unwise.

This was shaping up to be a very bad mission, an outright failure, and although the blame did not entirely rest on Major Echal, he knew that Vebn could spin this whichever way best suited him, and it would be no surprise if it spun towards the security officer. Govan’s just had to hope that it suited Vebn’s interested better to spin it towards Tedak instead. As the shuttle circled near the landing pad, on the opposite side of the dome, some sort of disturbance seemed to be occurring. Smoke drifted up from what appeared to be some sort of shuttle, but the type was obscured by the haze. Clearly there had been some sort of explosion…but what?

Wondering what was going on, Govan cast a curious glance in Vebn’s direction, but it didn’t seem his superior had noticed yet. As soon as the shuttle touched down, the Major was on the move to find out what happened. He’d barely stepped inside when he overheard two Starfleet security officers gossiping about what had happened and was able to pick up the basics from them. Smirking slight at the human propensity for dispensing information and the ease it afforded its retrieval, Echal moved back to the shuttle to speak with the senior Romulan Ambassador. Though he couldn’t be entirely certain, he suspected Vebn would know something.

"What’s happened?" the Ambassador asked, whether just for show or out of actual need of the information, Govan didn’t know, but he replied nevertheless.

"An assassination attempt on the Cardassians,” the Major answered evenly.

"Successful?" Vebn queried, giving away nothing in his delivery.

"No. The bomb went off late. I imagine it was installed hastily," Govan replied as he continued to watch his boss very carefully for any indication of his knowledge.

"Hastily because your rescue of me moved their timetable up," the Ambassador supplied, confirming Major Echal’s worst fears. He had messed up…again…

"And who exactly were they?" Govan asked, feeling his stomach sink but betraying nothing in his expression. If it was a Tal Shiar operation, he was as good as dead.

Vebn glanced around the cockpit of the small craft, clearly concerned about being overheard, but after a moment, he finally seemed to decide it was safe to talk and spoke, "A woman known as V'Shal, an independent contractor and...my daughter a Major in the Tal Shiar,” Vebn replied, hesitating slightly a few times.

Govan’s eyebrows shot up in surprise at the mention of his daughter, before dropping right back into place as if no show of emotion had occurred. While the first part was good news, and independent job, the second was bad. If this really was a Tal Shiar operation, and he had interfered, that added to the list of reasons his former colleagues would want him…disposed of, and perhaps rather quickly.

"So your kidnap was government sanctioned?" Major Echal questioned calmly.

Vebn shrugged. "Government, Tal Shiar, who knows. My daughter seemed to wish me no harm in fact the kidnap may have been to protect me - ensuring I wasn't at the landing,” the Ambassador replied, causing hope to flare up once more.

"She could just have warned you,” Govan suggested, still only cautiously optimistic.

Vebn laughed and answered, "Not my little girl. She used my kidnapping as a way to distract security. She’s not afraid to use anyone for tactical advantage."

"I see,” Govan replied icily, still seeing his interference as a likely probability.

"Well I hope we do. Your rescue may well have ruined our own government’s plans. I will contact my superiors to see if it’s officially sanctioned. You must locate V’Shal and do what ever is necessary to ensure her goals are met,” Vebn ordered, meeting Govan’s gaze firmly with his own. “Do you understand?"

Returning the firm gaze, Major Echal nodded once. “Perfectly,” he answered.

"Oh and try and *avoid* involving Tedak; his human loving side will not allow him to help. He has worked against us too many times before in favor of the Federation,” Vebn added, mirroring Govan’s own thoughts on the matter to perfection.

“Agreed. I will leave his…protection to his Federation friends for the time being. Hopefully he will be too grateful at being left alone to question why. Perhaps I will indicate that I require a break from him just as much as he desires a break from me,” the Major replied, not betraying even a hint of humor, though he did see the potential for it. It was no secret that the two Romulans were beginning to grate on each others nerves, especially being in such close proximity for so long a time.

“If there is nothing further, I will go inform Ambassador Tedak of his ‘freedom’,” Govan added, still deadpan, before turning smartly on his heel and departing the shuttle in search of his, now former, charge. As he approached the dome, the Major considered his new task and briefly wondering how he was supposed to find someone like V’Shal, someone who most likely would not want to be found. This could very well be an all but impossible task, one he would have to ponder.

Requesting the computer for Tedak’s location, he was given a rather cryptic response, one which indicated the Romulan ambassador was on the move but did not indicate his destination. Frowning slightly, the Major brought up schematics and once again requested the man’s location, which was displayed on the screen and now indicated movement. It appeared he was heading towards diplomatic quarters, hence Govan could only assume he was heading for his own room. Moving quickly, Major Echal headed in the same direction but went a different way, positioning himself so he would happen to meet Tedak on the way there, and in so doing shortening their conversation to avoid raising suspicion.

The plan worked perfectly. “Ah, Ambassador Tedak, I was just coming to speak with you,” Govan announced as he fell into step beside his fellow Romulan. “It seems we are to receive a much needed break from each other, at least for the time being. I have been granted permission to tend to other security matters for a brief time. But…do at least try not to get into too much trouble in the meantime.”

OOC: *I added avoid, as that's what made the most sense to me, and I think that's what you meant. If I was wrong, please let me know, and I will edit my post accordingly.*

[Magellan Lin]

V'Shal was not quite sure how to proceed, In order to get paid she needed to kill the Legate. Unfortunatly whilst injured he was now in the Starfleet Medical Facility undre heavy guard. Her presence had been revealed and Saarok was present, they would all be on their guard for her little tricks.

She sat on a rocky outcrop above the habdome watching the Starfleet and Debrune personnel whizz about like tiny ants. She toyed briefly with kidnapping Admiral Lin and using him as a hostage to reach the Legate, but quickly realised that she would never be able to get close enough. Perhaps Tedak then... slowly a plan began to form in her mind, a smile spread across her face.

***

In one of her less prefered disguises V'Shal shadowed Tedak as he walked down a corridor in the diplomatic quarter, she hung back as he was briefly joined by a Romulan Major, the one who had rescued Vebn, there was a short conversation and then the Major departed. Stepping up her pace she quickly pulled up alongside Tedak. Her hand dropped into her pocket and pulled out a hypospray in a flash she grabbed Tedak, who to his credit acted on impulse, she dodged his instinctive strike and slipped the hypospray on to his neck, the was a hiss and the contents were released. She kicked back pushing against Tedak and dashing down a side corridor. As expected Tedak followed, she turned and removed her face mask.

"Tedak, good to see you again"

Tedak growled and began to take a step forward,
"What did you inject me with?"

V'Shal shook her head and waved a small device at him, "Ah ah ah." she tutted, "I injected you with a micro explosive. At any moment I can detonate it. And why I hear you ask... because you and I need to work together for your government. The Legate must not see another day and you will help me."

TAG Tedak



00C: YOu were right Govan I did mean Involve.

[Deleted]

“Ah, Ambassador Tedak, I was just coming to speak with you,” Govan announced as he fell into step beside his fellow Romulan. “It seems we are to receive a much needed break from each other, at least for the time being. I have been granted permission to tend to other security matters for a brief time. But…do at least try not to get into too much trouble in the meantime.”

The other Romulan nodded solemnly, quietly relieved to be rid of this annoying military man, who had hovered over him ever since the incident with Saarok, after which they'd let Govan believe he'd been in actual danger. "State security does precede personal security," Tedak agreed, "and I'll try not to get into trouble, as you term it. I fully intend to take a few days rest and catch up on my work."

He gazed ahead, past Govan. "And I intend to catch up with an old friend of mine who I believe is back in the HabDome." He again nodded politely, indicating for Govan to move off and tend to his other duties. When the major was gone, Tedak sighed in relief and continued his walk home.

Just as he became aware he was followed, it was already too late. Someone pulled out a hyposray and he brought up his arm in response, trying to knock the device away. His move overbalanced him and his assailant could get under his defense and inject him with something.

Only then did the attacker reveal herself and he growled in response, demanding what he'd been injected with. V'Shal then demanded his co-operation, while showing him a detonator. "And what makes you think I'll co-operate," he demanded angrily, "I don't work for you and I'll never work with you."

The Romulan turned his back on the Vulcan woman and started to walk away. A few paces ahead, he turned. "For now, I'll not tell anyone what you did to me and tried to get me to do, but I'll not be part of your vile plans. Find yourself another scapegoat for it shan't be me." He turned again and continued his way, quietly rubbing the spot in his neck where the injection had occurred. Briefly he considered heading for the medical bay, but that meant he actually believed V'Shal had injected him with something, and he couldn't do that just yet. Not yet.

[Magellan Lin]

V'Shal stared at Tedak, was he really that stupid, no one turned their back on her.

"You think I m bluffing" she said off handedly,

Tedak ignored her and continued walking.

V'Shal rolled her eyes and then trotted up to walk beside the Ambasador who did his best to ignore her.

"Your right it was a bluff, I only kill where necessary. I m soft like that"

Tedak snorted.

"Okay okay" V'Shal said at last, "I had been saving this as leverage for another time, but you ve forced my hand. What do you really know about the death of your adopted son?"

Tedak stopped suddenly and span round angrily,


TAG Tedak


V'Shal shrugged,
"For a start I know that the body you buried was not the body of D'Beren. I can tell you more if you help me gain access to the Medical Bay. I ve been tasked to steal 500ml of bio-mimetic gel."

TAG Tedak

[Deleted]

Though he had presently called her bluff, Tedak still couldn't be certain that he wasn't injected with anything dangerous and as soon as he would shake V'Shal of, he would find someone with the expert knowledge of finding out. Unfortunately he seemed unable to shake the woman as she trotted up beside him. He did his best to ignore her, even as she admitted she had bluffed (though he couldn't in good conscience believe her)

Still ignoring her, he pressed on, taking such long strides she nearly had to run to keep up.

"Okay okay" V'Shal said at last, "I had been saving this as leverage for another time, but you ve forced my hand. What do you really know about the death of your adopted son?"

Tedak stopped suddenly and span round angrily, baring his teeth at her in fury. "You're pushing it V'Shal," he spat, "that's behind us and under investigation. Don't dig up old cows and think to know something you know nothing about. If more happened than was led on, I don't want to know about it."

The Romulan wanted to turn around and press on, but something in her tone had alerted him to the fact she might indeed know more. Thus, he lingered, his hand resting on the hilt of his dagger. Of course, he had no hope of killing her or even striking at her. She was cunning, and must have some wildcard up her sleeve to use.

V'Shal shrugged,
"For a start I know that the body you buried was not the body of D'Beren. I can tell you more if you help me gain access to the Medical Bay. I ve been tasked to steal 500ml of bio-mimetic gel."

"We saw him get buried," the Romulan snarled at her, "and you can get your own gel. I'm going home." He turned his back on her a third time, pretending not to hear her as he walked on. "Tedak to Saarok, please meet me in the officer's mess in fifteen minutes. It is urgent. You may want to bring Ambassador Tyr as well. If you can, bring a Cardassian representative also, but it's not required." He hated bringing the Betazoid into this, but he had proven to be cunning as well and his knowledge could be useful.

[Deleted]

"State security does precede personal security," Tedak agreed much to Govan’s relief, "...and I'll try not to get into trouble, as you term it. I fully intend to take a few days rest and catch up on my work. And I intend to catch up with an old friend of mine who I believe is back in the Habdome,” the Ambassador added.

Nodding once, Govan quickly turned and made his escape, not wanting to give Tedak a chance to come up with any questions regarding what Govan was being called away to do. After turning the corner heading away from the Ambassador, the Major began to relax and stopped for a moment. That had gone well, but now the hard part started. How to find someone who didn’t want to be found? The Romulan agent stood there for a moment debating this very problem when his keen hearing picked up something, the sounds of a struggle, followed by silence.

His initial reaction was to dismiss the struggle, as it most likely did not relate to his mission, but since it had come from the direction Tedak had been going, the Major sighed in frustration and reluctantly headed back, though he was certain it would turn out to be nothing important. A few more turns, and Govan stopped at the sound of Tedak’s voice. "And what makes you think I'll co-operate? I don't work for you, and I'll never work with you,” Tedak practically hissed, sounding angry.

Pulling his disrupter, Govan edged forward, and hearing footsteps moving away trailed them cautiously until they came to a halt once more. "For now, I'll not tell anyone what you did to me and tried to get me to do, but I'll not be part of your vile plans. Find yourself another scapegoat for it shan't be me,” Tedak declared.

"You think I’m bluffing,” another voice replied, female with an edge Govan would recognize in an instant. This person was dangerous, and a slight smirk crossed the Major’s face. It seemed finding V’Shal wasn’t going to be so difficult after all. The footsteps resumed again, and Echal trailed the pair once more, staying as quiet as possible, though he realized she was the type who could detect him in an instant, and as a result, the Tal Shiar operative was on edge and on his guard.

"Your right it was a bluff, I only kill where necessary. I’m soft like that,” the woman replied, the pair still moving towards Tedak’s quarters. Govan sneered slightly at the cold, sarcasm in her voice. Clearly Tedak didn’t find it so amusing, as his only reply was a snort from the Ambassador, so finally she tried again. “Okay, okay, I had been saving this as leverage for another time, but you’ve forced my hand. What do you really know about the death of your adopted son?"

The footsteps came to a halt instantly, causing Govan to stop suddenly as well. "You're pushing it V'Shal. That's behind us and under investigation. Don't dig up old cows and think to know something you know nothing about. If more happened than was led on, I don't want to know about it,” Tedak replied with venom in his voice.

"For a start I know that the body you buried was not the body of D'Beren. I can tell you more if you help me gain access to the Medical Bay. I’ve been tasked to steal 500ml of bio-mimetic gel,” the woman replied, causing Govan to smirk once again. Now that he knew something she wanted, he had some leverage with her.

"We saw him get buried, and you can get your own gel. I'm going home,” Tedak snapped back, before a single set of footsteps was heard walking away. There was a moment of silence, and Govan decided he would make his move now.

Gripping his disrupter tightly, the Major spoke from around the corner keeping his voice calm, almost casual. “You made a mistake asking him for help, V’Shal.” He was greeted with only silence, so grasping his weapon even tighter he moved slowly from the shadows to face her. “His loyalties are conflicted. He’ll most likely go running straight to Lin with this information.” Pausing for effect, Echal added, “My loyalties are not as conflicting as Ambassador Tedak’s. I serve the Empire, and the Empire alone, and from what I hear, we happen to be your latest client.”

Leaning casually against the wall, but keeping his disrupter carefully ready, Govan continued. “I have access to the medical bay. I could get your gel without raising any suspicion. In fact, working together, we can accomplish this mission of yours more easily and more quickly, and you still get all of whatever they’re paying you. However, as you know, nothing is free, and my assistance is no different. This is simply a business proposition, nothing you’re unfamiliar with, but in this case, the benefit is high, and the cost and risks are low, for both of us. Interested?”

<Tag V’Shal>

[Magellan Lin]

V'Shal looked at the Romulan Major carefully, she knew the type and was well aware that he would stand a good chance of being able to kill her if she gave him the chance, or the reason.

She wished belatedly she had done more research on the Romulan Diplomatic team, in the old days it had just been Tedak and Nelon but when Vebn arrived his entourage had taken up a small shuttle and recently he had added this Govan to his team.

"Tedak and I are old friends, it seemed only right to approach him first." V'Shal replied, "Shall we walk and talk?"

"No" Govan replied evenly

"Very well, you are right about Tedak, he seems to be much less fun these days, I used to be able to wind him around my little finger." she shrugged, "I guess that next time we meet I may have to be more... agressive."

Govan did not appear to be listening but V'Shal could tell he was taking down every word and filing it for future reference.

"So" she said, "A deal then, you help me get into the Medical Facility and steal the gel and you get... what exactly? Money, favour?"

TAG Govan

V'Shal thought it over a moment but knew her options were limited, it would not take the Admiral or Saarok to track her down.

"Deal. I suggest you lead the way"

TAG Govan

[Deleted]

Saarok was still thinking about V'shal and that she might to next when he got a call from Tedak. Well he might as well go, perhaps Tedak has some new facts that could help him find that pleasant woman.

=/\=Saarok to Retiarius Tyr, meet me in the officer's mess right away=/\=

<Tag Tyr>

After he sent the message to Tyr he went out of his office and signaled his guards to follow. His pet, the firelizard, seemed to have gone of somewhere, but no matter she shall return should he need her, all he had to do was think of it. After a longer trip he finally reached the mess. WHen he entered he seemed to be the first one to arrive. How illogical he thought, for someone who had some urgent matters to discus, Tedak is certainly taking his time. But soon enough both Tedak and Tyr finally arrived.

<Tag Tedak, Tyr>

[Deleted]

"So," she said, sounding understandably suspicious. "A deal then, you help me get into the Medical Facility and steal the gel and you get what exactly? Money, favor?"

“Simple,” Govan replied. “Once this job is complete, and you’ve received your compensation, all you have to do is inform whoever hired you of my assistance, a few words, nothing more. Costs you very little, but it will bolster my reputation.”

The woman hesitated, seeming to think it over, while Govan casually waited as if it didn’t matter one way or the other. "Deal,” she finally replied, as Govan pushed off the wall with his shoulder to stand upright again. “I suggest you lead the way.”

Forcing a straight face in spite of his small victory, Govan nodded once holstering his weapon before he began moving towards his quarters, keeping his ears trained on her movements behind him, listening for any signs that she was about to stab him in the back, literally or figuratively. He doubted V’Shal would make any move against him before she had the gel in hand, but the Major knew enough about the woman to not trust her for one second. Asking for a mention from her had been a calculated risk, but first of all, he knew she’d be slightly less suspicious if he asked for something, second, it was an easy enough request for her to agree to do, and third, she was not aware that Vebn had ordered him to help her in the first place.

Reaching the door to his room, the Romulan keyed in the proper security codes before stepping aside. “After you,” he offered keeping his expression blank. The woman hesitated, before moving ahead of him into the room. After turning to follow her inside, Govan stepped past the Vulcan motioning towards the seating options before moving to the replicator and retrieving two glasses of water, one which he took a sip from as he crossed the room and the other one for his ‘guest’.

“The plan is simple. One of the nurses at the medical facility is a Romulan whom I have quite a bit of sway over. She’ll do whatever I ask without question. However, the facility is run by an overbearing, nosy, controlling Vulcan healer, who also has some level of influence and works at the same time as Ta…this nurse,” Govan reported, careful to leave Tamir’s name out of this. V’Shal would have no trouble finding out if she wanted, but the Major saw no need to volunteer this information.

Placing the second water on the table near the Vulcan and perching on the edge of a chair’s arm holding the first, Major Echal continued. “I will go and simply inform the nurse to try and retrieve the gel during her shift tomorrow, no details, but to wait for T’Val to get called away, even if it takes a few days for that to happen. The thing is, you will ensure she is called away on a medical emergency soon after beginning her shift tomorrow.” Smirking slightly, Govan added, “I’ll leave those details in your expert hands, just don’t make it so serious as to result in any undue suspicions or cause that Vulcan guard dog to feel the need for additional help from the nurse.”

“After you’ve caused your little emergency, and you’ve made certain T’Val is on her way there, I suggest you return here, where I will join you once I have acquired the gel,” Govan finished, feeling rather pleased with himself for coming up with such a well organized, simple to execute plan. “Does that sound acceptable to you?”

<Tag V’Shal>

[Magellan Lin]

V'Shall listened to the plan intently, it was well thought through and would almost certianly work, were that the only reason for her needing access to sickbay.

"I must be present" she said at last, " I need to see the gel and its storage first. Can your nurse friend gain us access, perhaps at a quiet time. We would need five minutes or less."

TAG Govan

"I insist this partneship will only work if I am the one in the hospital to lift the gel. We can go together but I MUST be there."

TAG Govan

[Deleted]

"I must be present. I need to see the gel and its storage first. Can your nurse friend gain us access, perhaps at a quiet time. We would need five minutes or less.”

Staring in disbelief at the Vulcan woman, Govan felt his fury rising, though he tried to control it. “You’ve got to be kidding…do you have any idea…?”

"I insist this partnership will only work if I am the one in the hospital to lift the gel,” V’Shal interrupted. “We can go together but I MUST be there.”

Staring daggers and getting angrier by the second, Govan spun on his heel and punched the nearest wall, a few bones made a crunching noise, whether actually breaking or just cracking he wasn’t sure. Giving no indication he felt any pain at all, the Major began to pace the room, refusing to even look in V’Shal’s direction and cursing heavily in Romulan under his breath, throwing in a few extremely derogatory comments and opinions about women and Vulcans in general for good measure.

She was driving him mad. If only this situation was less complicated and he could just dispose of the irritating woman...how would he kill her if given the opportunity... Strangulation was certainly an appealing option, but it was too quick. Glancing at his injured fist, Govan realized bone breaking was certainly slow and painful enough, fun too although a whole lot of hard work. But a combination of methods was of course the best, especially if you got useful information and glory out of it.

Sighing, Major Echal realized he missed his old job, but that was in the past. What he needed to do was focus on the here and now and on the task at hand, which was unfortunately to help this ungrateful, irritating... Realizing his mind had turned full circle to his previous train of thought, Govan pushed his complaints back and tried to think of another plan, one that would satisfy her royal pickiness. Glancing at his battered knuckles, he realized he’d have to go see Tamir about fixing that.

And that’s when it hit him. Within moments, a new plan had formed, one that he hoped would be satisfactory and meet the demands of the princess. Regaining his control and turning back, Govan glared at her before beginning his second presentation. “Very well...you still create a distraction, bigger this time requiring a larger team of medical personnel and involving something that would obscure the transporters. The medical facility gets almost emptied out, including the Vulcan, because of the assistance required and the inability to transport victims to sickbay.”

Gaining momentum, and beginning to like this new idea more and more, Major Echal continued. “At roughly the same time as this ‘accident’ occurs, you, properly disguised of course, will drag me into sickbay moderately injured and requiring medical attention. The nurse will want to stay to help me, so when the call comes in for the medical emergency, T’Val will take quite a few people but allow her to remain in charge of sickbay and care for me, most likely with very few other people left. She tends to me, you deal with the gel and any remaining personnel. Done.”

Feeling incredibly proud of himself, both for restraining his homicidal tendencies and for concocting an even more brilliant plan than the first, Govan added one final piece of the puzzle. “We’ll just overload my replicator. You will claim to have found me collapsed in my doorway with plasma burns, where I will claim I crawled to before losing consciousness,” the Major finished triumphantly. “Will that do?”

<Tag V’Shal>

[Deleted]

Tedak hurried to the officer's mess as fast as he could, but with the crowded corridors of the habdome, it wasn't an easy feat to accomplish. Many of the inhabitants weren't very pleased with a Romulan presence and though equally many didn't pay attention to him at all, he found his way barred annoyingly often.

Politely, he asked if people would please stand aside as he charged past at full speed. Occasionally he would bump someone aside, upon which he stopped briefly to check whether the bumped person was allright. If that was the case, he charged on.

Surprisingly, he arrived at exactly the same time as Retiarius Tyr. For now ignoring him, Tedak pushed open the door and walked in, brushing his robes to smoothen some wrinkles out. In one hand, he carried two PADDs, of which he handed one to each ambassador. "Gentlemen, I fear we have a major problem. After we have talked, I shall head to inform Ambassador s'Khellien though at present I have a strong belief that he may in fact be involved somehow."

He looked away briefly, noting that he was indeed accusing his immediate superior of something sinister. However it wouldn't be the first time Vebn had a hidden agenda and conveniently failed to inform certain other people within his department. "I was approached earlier by V'Shal," he started, drawing a sharp gaze from Saarok and a squawk from his golden firelizard. Nut chirped in return and she settled down.

"She tried to blackmail me into helping her assassinate the Cardassian Legate. She attacked me and injected me with a so far unknown agent. Though she claimed she injected me with a micro explosive and I called her bluff, she did nothing to prove otherwise. Therefor, I have reason to believe that she indeed inject me with something."

He paused, regarding Vulcan and Betazoid before him. This once, he kept his mental barries down to such a level that the Betazoid could perform a superficial scan to verify his words. "After that, she claimed to have information regarding my son's death. Again, I told her I wasn't interested and walked away. At that point, Major Govan arrived and I could walk away unhindered. However, I believe one of you should inform admiral Lin of this development. It may not look good if I approach the admiral. Instead, I will go see Vebn and urge him to inform the admiral."

~later~
Tedak walked into the Romulan embassy, nodded at Nelon then asked if Vebn was in. The younger Romulan nodded right back, not looking up to meet his gaze. Shrugging, Tedak walked past him and strode into the senior diplomat's office. "My apologies for dropping in unannounced," he apologised while coming to a halt before the desk.

He stood perfectly straight and proud while he gazed down on Vebn. "I believe we may have a problem," he continued, before relaying a second time what had happened with V'Shal. "Though I am not particularly pleased with a Cardassian presence here, I doubt assassination is the solution. Admittingly, the previous diplomat did end up being a friend, but he disappeared several years ago and any attempt to track him down has led to a dead end."

Sighing, he finally claimed one of the seats and sank down, interlacing his fingers in his lap as he solemnly gazed at Vebn. "I strongly urge for you to inform Admiral Lin of this development, as it may affect us all. V'Shal is a rogue, and works for the highest bidder. Now, she might or might not be working for our government but she could very well work for someone who wishes to see our people eliminated. She must be dealt with, as soon as possible and as quietly as possible."

[Deleted]

=/\=Saarok to Retiarius Tyr, meet me in the officer's mess right away=/\=

Tyr was sat in the replicator lounge when the call came through, nursing a cup of Tarkalean tea and mulling his thoughts over. He had been here for a few months only, and even now he was unsure who the actual enemy was. So far the Romulans might be reunificationists who were trying to bring down every other galactic power, the Klingons were getting reckless and aggressive in regards to how they conducted the Colonial War, the Tholians were selling explosives to terrorists, and now people were trying to kill Cardassians. He should have asked for the assignment in the Orion Syndicate, it probably would have been more straight forward. He tapped his communicator.

=/\=Tyr on my way ambassador=/\=

He stood and walked off, leaving his untouched drink still steaming on the table. Whatever the former intelligence man wanted, he had a feeling it would not be anything remotely simple. He moved across the floor of the HabDome to where the officers mess had been put up, entering and crossing the deserted room to where Saarok sat and Tedak stood. He nodded curtly at both men, suspecting something unpleasant was about to be revealed.

"Gentlemen, I fear we have a major problem. After we have talked, I shall head to inform Ambassador s'Khellien though at present I have a strong belief that he may in fact be involved somehow. I was approached earlier by V'Shal. She tried to blackmail me into helping her assassinate the Cardassian Legate. She attacked me and injected me with a so far unknown agent. Though she claimed she injected me with a micro explosive and I called her bluff, she did nothing to prove otherwise. Therefor, I have reason to believe that she indeed inject me with something. After that, she claimed to have information regarding my son's death. Again, I told her I wasn't interested and walked away. At that point, Major Govan arrived and I could walk away unhindered. However, I believe one of you should inform admiral Lin of this development. It may not look good if I approach the admiral. Instead, I will go see Vebn and urge him to inform the admiral."

Tedak left, and Saarok and Tyr were left to look at each other.

"Permission to speak freely sir" Tyr asked, still slightly held up on old protocol, especially in front of a man he respected as his superior. He received a nod of Saarok's head.
"With all due respect to your connected racial origins sir, I would feel a lot better to kill of all the scheming little Romulan freaks right now. It would make everyone's jobs and lives so much easier. As for the situation sir, I have an SI Ghost squad here on an unrelated matter, and I'd like to have them assigned to shadowing Tedak, Vebn and Govan. Whilst ambassador Tedak may have brought forward this information, I still don't trust Romulans sir"

<TAG Saarok>

"I'd also like to be placed as a temporary DCS liason officer to the Cardassian delegation until the situation has at least been partially resolved. I feel that my joint expertise makes me both an appropriate liason and an incognito bodyguard"

<TAG Saarok>

Tyr mvoed to leave, but before he did, he turned and placed a padd in front of Saarok, drawn from within his jacket.

"Front line account sir. I'm sure you've read the official dockets, but this gives first hand accounts of the Mary, the incident with the explosives, and all immediate intelligence concerning the Colonial War, and the assassination of Ambassador Tedak's son, until this point believed to be at the hands of the Klingons. I'll keep you abrest of all developments sir"

He left, addressing the computer.

"Locate Admiral Lin"

"Admiral Lin is located in his office"

~A few minutes later~

Tyr entered the office quietly, giving the Trill Admiral a polte smile as he locked the door behind him.

"Do you want the bad news, the really bad news, or the utterly catastrophic news first" he asked as an icebreaking joke, then launching into his report.
"The bad news is that Ambassador Tedak believes Vebn to be connected to the recent acts of terrorism committed by V'Shal. The rally bad news is that she's within the HabDome and tried to recruit Tedak for another attempt on the Legate's life. And the utterly catastrophic news is that a third party might have been behind D'Beren's death, and is thus likely trying to create an unprecedented intergalactic war between us, the Romulans, the Klingons, the Tholians, and now it seems the Cardassians. Governments fall, Empires crumble, and then someone steps from the dust and inherits half the galaxy" He paused.
"Don't suppose you've got anything to drink?"

<TAG Admiral Lin>