El Sal Mission 8.25: Not a Sentient Was Stirring..

[Savot]

"By touch," S'reena replied softly to his inquiry of how she'd prefer to map his features, reaching out with her left hand. "Some guidance would be appreciated," she requested, smiling in what could possibly have been perceived as nervousness or embarassment.

Savot; however, having already agreed to the request maintained no sense of imminent discomfort or unsettlement and moved closer to face Commander Hope directly with no hesitation. The vulcan raised his right hand to let the romulan's left come into contact with it, his gathered fingers placed behind her thumb while her fingers settled against his own thumb. Pulling his hand slowly back towards himself he guided Hope's fingers into contact with his face just over and above his right eyebrow, the juxtaposed sensations of flesh and hair intended to inform her as to where she was beginning her map.

Savot's eyes closed, but only to remove them as obstacles to the Commander's search and not due to any discontent. Vulcans were known to prefer to avoid direct contact with others, for multiple reasons but primarily due to the fact that most vulcans were able to sense the surface emotions of anyone whose skin they were in direct contact with, and for obvious reasons that disturbed most vulcans. Savot was no less driven to maintain a logical mindset than the average vulcan, but he had long ago decided that the best way to do so was to accept exposure to emotions periodically in order to increase his own ability to cope with them. Sooner or later there would be scenarios where he would have absolutely no way to avoid exposure to emotion, and the more experience he had with them at that time, the less they would distract his logical thought processes.

Savot wasn't particularly gifted with telepathy, probably no more or less powerful than the average member of his species, but even so he focussed on holding a barrier present between Hope's surface thoughts and his ability to read them. Again it was not because he would find the emotions themselves disturbing, but rather to maintain privacy for Hope and not 'spy' upon her feelings.

Aside from this internal focus the vulcan made no movement and said nothing throughout the entire experience as Hope's hand flowed questioningly along his face. He had the beginnings of a few wrinkles that were a tad early for his age, but fewer now than when he'd first been rescued by the El Salvador-A several years prior. In truth, Savot had much the same facial structure as Ambassador Spock; a fact that had been brought to his attention as a congratulatory gift for his unorthodox completion of the kahs-wan coming of age ritual.

His younger sister Saevalis, knowing of her brother's admiration for what was the human equivalent of a 'role model', had gathered holographic models of the Ambassador's head from each of the stages of his life and created a holoprogram that overlayed recorder images of Savot's face... and though they had been similar Savot still pointed out the illogic of the comparison. As usual; however, her brother's response served only to illicit the quarter-smile Saevalis had mastered by the time she was 8.

Savot's face was clean-shaven as he almost always remained; his sister had once asked him, on the grounds of 'intellectual curiosity', to grow a beard to see what it would look like. Savot had then pointed out that she could use the 3d images she had used in her gift and have a computer extrapolate what the image would look like with follicle accumulation. Saevalis, at 11 years of age, had managed an expression that silently suggested he was the single most irritating being in the cosmos.

After several minutes S'reena dropped her hand, taking a step back while bowing her head. "Thank you," she said, while raising her head again to face him. "I hope it caused you no discomfort. If it did, please allow me to apologise, it was not my intention." She paused. "I have decided to report to Wolf for training," she informed him after a brief silence, "but I do appreciate your offer. It is best that Wolf sees to it, and as you said, Auric may learn too."

Savot bowed his head as well, "You are quite welcome, Commander. Do not concern yourself; I was not bothered in the slightest. Though even if I were it would hardly be logical to bear you any ill will since it was my decision whether to participate. I hope you find Colonel Wolf's training to be a fruitful use of your time."

When Commander Hope bid him farewell, Savot returned to the bridge resuming his usual chair instead of Ops. Looking over the sensor readouts to again confirm the planet's overall stability, the vulcan nodded in satisfaction and spoke, "Ensign Fire, break orbit and engage your return course to the Federation border at Full Impulse power." There was no reason they couldn't just jump right to warp and get there in mere minutes, but the Doctor would still require time to first determine if anything could even be done with regard to the Breen's memories, and if so to perform the difficult task.

"Mr. Roberts, open a channel to the lead Cardassian vessel", Savot's order quickly followed by the beep-chime of an opened hailing frequency.

=^=Captain Savot to Cardassian commander; we are returning to Federation space at this time. However, should you require more detail as to the events of this situation you are welcome to escort us back to the border and receive whatever data I can provide. El Salvador out=^=, this part of their mission had been completed, but there remained much to do before they could put it behind them completely.

[Deleted]

Looking at there New Doctor he smiled a little, at least the new CMO was not fighting the issue of security. He would have to remember to return the favor when it was time for crew exams and not duck them. If the Doc could work with him on this issue then it meant they would get along.

As he sat down at his desk again he wondered how long it had take Commander Hope to run to the captain. He hadn't heard anything back yet but made sure he found the regulations he needed to justify his actions. He had to admit it was a stretch by ordering a senior officer but the need was great. He had no desire to hurt Commander Hope but her safety was a concern if she wish to join away missions. He couldn't always afford to make sure she had a security officer with her at all times.

Since there was nothing for him to do he got up and left a junior officer in charge of security. The Breen wouldn't be going any where any time soon. He had one last thing to do heading to his quarters he changed into a dress uniform and headed down to where the fallen were being kept. He arrived to see his marines standing watch over them it was a old tradition. He looked at private smith and releaved him. " I'll take the next watch Private thank you for volunteering for this."

He watch the private salute him and the fallen and leave. Taking the private postion he too felt sorry for them. He was going to make sure every honor was taken with these two it was the least he could do for them. They both had paid the highest price for doing there duty. Still his heart sank a little because they would never know what they had help accomplish. He hoped they knew that there lives were not given in vain. The weapon was destoryed nobody would have live in fear for the moment.
<Tag Anybody>

Still his thoughts went back to the Breen, there was no question they would build another one. They were going to have to make some tough choices soon. It was one of the few times he felt sorry for the captain.

[Deleted]

"Ensign Fire, break orbit and engage your return course to the Federation border at Full Impulse power."

James had still been thinking about how exactly he was going to take the time to meet the crewmembers on board esspecially the other navigation officers when Captain Savot's voice spoke behind him. He nodded in compliance, "Aye sir." He responded quickly and pressed over a couple other keys on his panel and hit the flashing button to his right with those motions the planet would start to swing away. On the viewscreen and be replaced by stars as the vessel started to make it's heading towards the Federation/Cardassian border. "Current ETA Cap'n' approximently seven hours and two minutes 'til we reach our destination."

He sighed quietly under his breath after speaking his words thinking about his next stop and how it would be probably sickbay. He needed to talk to the ship's CMO and get his medical records in line. But, all that would have to wait until he got the free time to do so.

[Deleted]

==^==Cmdr. K'Vada to Cmdr. Hope, I'd like your opinion on some liquid I found inside the Breen==^==

"Send it to the lab doctor, I'll attend to it as soon as possible. There is something I need to attend to first. Meet me in the lab in one hour." S'reena was certain that her talk with Wolf was going to take longer than she intended it to last. She exited the readyroom before the captain, feeling somewhat relieved that she had caused him no discomfort.

She felt the disturbance in the air as Auric's wings went past her cheek, and she felt the small creature land on her shoulder. The Romulan was starting to feel the difference when the little creature was 'talking' to her and right now, she felt her curiosity as well as her comfort. The sensory input of her touch and Auric's images combined had given her a good picture of the captain, one she would never forget. In this action alone, he had gained her full trust, for he had been ready to trust her immediately. And in her book, that counted for something.

Walking into the turbolift, after informing Ian to please stay put, she tapped her combadge. "Colonel Wolf, I need to have a word with you. Right now." There was no room for debate in her words. "I will meet you at your present location." Her tone was cold, disapproving, even though she herself was smiling. Auric chirped a query but S'reena didn't respond to it, for once.

A few minutes later, she stood before Wolf. If she had been able to see, she'd have been glaring at him. "I have decided to participate in your training, even though Captain Savot seemed to agree with my arguments against joining in. However," she held up her hand, silencing him as she knew he would retort if she didn't, "I want your guarantee that it will be safe for me. Auric will be present at all times, and shall not be barred if she chooses to come to my assistance. She needs to learn too, and she is my defender at all times, as you may come to notice." She paused, knowing her next words were going to hurt his feelings, badly. "You say you are all about safety, but can you guarantee the captain's. It wouldn't be the first time a commanding officer would get shot under your watch."

[Deleted]

He was standing his post watching over the dead as was custom when a Marine Honor Guard was granted to the fallen. He wasn't shocked to see Commander Hope enter the room he thought she had come to pay respects. He was caught off guard when she spoke to directly at him.

"I have decided to participate in your training, even though Captain Savot seemed to agree with my arguments against joining in. However," she held up her hand, silencing him as she knew he would retort if she didn't, "I want your guarantee that it will be safe for me. Auric will be present at all times, and shall not be barred if she chooses to come to my assistance. She needs to learn too, and she is my defender at all times, as you may come to notice." She paused, knowing her next words were going to hurt his feelings, badly. "You say you are all about safety, but can you guarantee the captain's. It wouldn't be the first time a commanding officer would get shot under your watch."

The words struck him in the face like a phaser set on heavy stun. It took ever ounce of self control he had not to react. Years of training had changed him he wasn't quick to react to words but it hurt in more ways then he could imagine. He thought back to the mission as a young cadet when he was placed in charge of Admiral Drew security by Commander Hope. He failed and the admiral was shot luckily he lived.

He thought about his next words carefully he would not make a scene in this place of honor. The fact that Commander Hope seemed to be taking some type of enjoyment out this. Her facial expressions were easy to read she was trying to prove a point. He didn't mind so much if it had happened anywhere but here in front of another Marine and the honored dead. Collecting himself and making sure he didn't cross the line, still she was right he failed something that still bugged him to this day. Oh how he would love to tell her the score had been settled with that hired gun long ago but couldn't.

" Commander Hope" trying to reign in his feelings in front of her and his fellow Marine " Commander the first lesson will begin at the time of your choosing on Holodeck 3. Your pet may come but your lesson will not begin until I know what your body remembers. Its a simple means to know where to begin again. I do not want to waste your time going over things that you remember or be little you doing that. Your pet may join in the lesson after I know where you are currently at. Your pet may observe for the first session but I ask you not to use your link with it. Its not because I want you blind we are all blind at one time or another, its just to see if somebody catches you off guard that you can react quickly enough to give your self some room to fight with."

pausing he was still hurt and angry at her in ways she couldn't even imagine. " After that your pet is welcome to join in and learn where it needs to be to best help you. I ask that you honor this request for the first meeting after which I will honor my part through your training until the end." pausing for amoment "You are right Commander about safety I will ensure you are taken care of. I haven't lost any Commanders ..... yet that I have been responsible for."

"Just one other thing Commander you might want your pet to scan the room for you and see where we are standing. I'm sure a fine officer such as your self would never insult the dead who have earned a marine honor Guard. It is the custom to come to attention for the dead regardless of rank as you have so pointed out to me. Unless you think the sacrifice they made in services of the federation is not worth your respect I can't be the one who judges that for you. So we will just chalk this up to the fact your pet needs lessons on scanning the surroundings for you in detail"

" If there is nothing else Commander I have a few hours left on my shift for Honor Guard Duty. Oh and Commander trust this I have never forgotten how I failed you and the Admiral I think about that moment more then you will ever know if that is all Commander Hope." <Tag Hope>

He knew that it wasn't her fault for not seeing where she was at. She was focused on him nothing else he knew she didn't mean any disrespect to the fallen but her comment and struck a open wound that had never healed. He just wanted to poke back and now was hating himself for taking a cheap shot. He would how ever make sure she got the very best training for her and her pet. Which he was starting to wonder about the link seemed solid and strong. He was looking forward to seeing what it added to her and took away.

[Deleted]

She had no idea there had been dead in the room with them, and she certainly had no idea the marine had been on guard duty for them. Had she known, she would've been more diplomatic and leave her challenge for another time. "I apologise colonel," she answered him, though her voice was cold, "I didn't you were on guard duty. However, I do have an hour's time now, before I have to join Doctor K'vada. If you are somehow available now, perhaps we could get a first assessment done."

Looking at Commander Hope he could see that she was really caught off guard. She had been so focused on him she really wasn't aware of what was going on. Looking over at the sgt who was on with he signaled him to get a replacement.

" Commander Hope I would be more then happy to begin your training now. If you want I can lead the way or just follow you to holodeck 3"

"A guide would be preferable," she commented calmly, conceding to the offer given. "I would not be able to find my way alone just yet. I have not been able to study this ship's layout, though I was indeed coping just fine on the Hepta, prior to her decommissioning."

Taking Commander Hopes hand he placed it on his shoulder and started guiding her to the holodeck " I would like you to know that these sessions are going to be designed to make you better. I will not be making a point of trying to beat, in point of fact I want you to beat me. I will not make it easy for you or hold your hand."

"I understand," the Romulan commander replied evenly, feeling even less secure now than she had before, "and I apologise for my remarks to you, especially in front of your men." From her perch on her shoulder, Auric chirped what appeared to be an affirmative, her eyes sparkling bright green in curiosity. "Auric wishes to know what you are planning," the Romulan chuckled uncomfortable, standing a little forlorn in the middle of the holodeck. "And frankly, so am I. Please colonel, hold nothing back. I may be blind, but I'm not without skill."

Looking at her he could tell she really meant what she said " Computer enact wolf 2. This is a basic training room the floors and walls are padded. I'm going to leave you in the center of the room. My only task is to take you down. There will be no punches only take downs. The object is to see how much of your train relied on sight instead of just reaction. This is why I didn't want you to use your link with your pet. I respect you too much to treat you like a new cadet. All you have to do is stay on your feet just react. Remember all the moves and react rely on your senses. I'm sure it will all come back to you"

"Trust me, my training never left me," S'reena smirked, relaxing her stance a little, stepping her left foot slightly behind the right for suitable balance. Her right shoulder was tilted forward slightly, her left arm drawn slightly back as she waited. She tilted her head a little, listening for foodsteps, while silently commanding Auric to find a perch elsewhere and not interfere just yet.

The little gold chittered angrily, but obeyed her mistress without delay, finding a perch somewhere on the padded wall. "Do your worst," S'reena challenged softly. "Show me how much you learned since training."

:: to be continued ::

OFF:
Colonel Running Wolf, MDC
Commander S'reena Hope, CScO

[Deleted]

He chuckled a little with Commander Hope last comment his feelings towards her were getting calmer. He knew she didn't mean to make a scence if she had known where she was and what was going on she would have waited. Still he was mad about the comment of failing to protect the Captain and the admiral. This wasn't a grudge match he had to calm him self and move into instructor mode.

Taking of his dress uniform jacket and his shoes her sense would be on full alert now listening for his movements the padding would muffle that until she adjusted. He knew he couldn't rely on strenght she would be is equal she was Romulan and stronger the she appeared.

" Oh Commander you remind me of a old movie I once watched I think it was called Star something but there was a line in there that fits. When I left you I was but a learner now I'am the master. I dont know if I should thank you or hate you right now after I left you I was recruited for black ops." He kept her distracted by talking and moving around her he had put his shoes down but kept the jacket. He threw it at as it landed on her and distracted her he came up from behind and nocked her feet out from under her. He didn't go down on top of her, he was being cautious of her strenth.

" It would seem you are on the floor Commander remember anything can be a weapon. But while you got the Jacket may I suggest you smell it. I'm not being rude by any means but you have more then your hear to rely on. Everybody has a smell all living things combine your hearing with your sense of smell"

He was impressed as soon as she went down she was up again. He kept talking trying to distract her at the same time he was keep a close watch on her pet. He knew the commander would honor is request but would the need to protect its master drive it to interfer.

" You got lucky on surface Commander if that klingon had honor it could have been much worse for you in point of fact we all got lucky"

This time he came at from the front and tryed to trip her up she countered and forced him off to the side at the same time he could feel her trying to grasp his arm he intentional fell to pull himself away from her and roled away.

" Very good Commander you seem to be remember things quite well. I dare say more then I thought you would. But little old wolfie has a few more tricks up his sleeve yet"

This time he grasped her from behind again and took her down but instead of letting go he held on apply a little pressure on her joints not enough to cause damage but enough to let her know he was there

" All you have to do is get me off of you Commander thats all nothing else." he kept talking to her to distract her he knew if she got out he was going to be sore because it was going to hurt

" Come on Commander surely you can get this wolf off your back. Don't think just react"

He started to feel how strong she really was he estimated another 2 sec's before she had him off is only concern would be to make sure he roled far enough so she could catch him. It wasn't that she couldn't remember her only problem appeared to be just reaction time. Something would work on to the point where he wouldn't beable to get her to the floor with causing himself serious harm.

:: to be continued ::

[Deleted]

Auric hissed as Wolf tackled S'reena, but she obeyed the silent command to stay where she was at. That, of course, didn't mean she liked it and it took everything not to fly at the man. S'reena on her part, was getting quite annoyed with the marine's babbling.

"Stop chattering," she growled as she tossed him away without conscious effort on her part. She listened to where he landed but before she knew it she found herself flying flat on her back again, the marine crouched over her. "Do you always babble your opponent to death?" she challenged irritably, as she allowed him to help her back to her feet.

She lashed out, now knowing he was standing close, smiling in satisfaction as she heard his yelp of surprise. "Two can play that game major. I thought you were going to show me something, teach me blind combat. Instead, you have done nothing but babble away. Oh you landed a few punches..."

The Romulan ducked, feeling the wind as an arm swung over her, right where her head had been before. She let herself fall backwards, grabbing a fistful of fabric and tearing the marine down with her. She rolled away before Wolf could land on top of her, then sat on his back, one arm twisted in a good hold. "Give?" she asked softly pressing slightly harder, but not such to give him too much discomfort or threaten to break his arm.

[Deleted]

He was impressed with the commander her reactions were quick and exactly what he thought they would be. He had learned two things in those few moments one she was focused and his talking was not doing anything second she was trying to prove a point while he admired her for it, he could see room for improvement.

" Very well Commander we shall up the level of difficulty for you" he stopped talking and he was lucky the commander was not apply alot of pressure to his wrist just enough to let him know that she was there. With a swift motion of hips and legs and strength and the commander not weight so much he had her off his back. Instead of talking he kept quite watching her take a combat stance again. While she adjusted her footing he came in and knocked her of her feet again. He waited for the moment for her to get up again she was quick and he only have a moment when she jumped up again he came up behind her and through her down again.

This time he instead of distracting her he started teaching " Commander you have your hearing, sense of smell, touch and feeling. Focus on the ones that work right now think about the room and what its made of concentrate on those things you know for sure feel the pressure on the padding as somebody comes towards you. It makes no difference what the ground is made of you will feel or hear it." He came back in at her again this time he drew up short. He didn't try to put her down this time he kept coming at her and stopping short.

" Focus feel the air around you as move towards you feel how it just touches your skin, When you arrive in any room you have to take a moment to feel the room the noises the smells the way the air flows in the room. While your pet maybe able to give a image of the room he can not tell you how the room feels for you."

" If you take the moment to feel the room you will learn more about then most people will see. Sound, smell, touch and feelings from the room will give you a perception most people over look. This leads to the getting caught off guard because they rely on sight instead of what there senses are trying to tell them its the gut feeling you get when you know something is about to happen."

He started to Moving again " Focus on my movement Commander follow what your senses are trying to tell you. Listen you are a stage most warriors try to master all there life's but fail. Remember what it felt like when I was coming at you. The movement of air the vibration in the padding. The sound of my breathing my clothes rubbing against me as I move.
He kept quite as he started walking around her she slowly started to turn in his direction he came at her again this time she was prepared for it and threw him over her hip. He rolled way keeping his eyes on her she was following he his movement he came at hear again he got the same reaction and went flying across the room.

" I think that will be enough for today Commander our next lesson will include your pet. But I would like if possible that 10 Min's of ever session at the end you cut your link. I want to start introducing elements into the room. I will not be attacking but only making you focus on where I'm at. I will introduce sounds people I want you to be able to focus on one element mixed others and pick it out. Then we will progress to you taking mental images of everything until its a habit you don't even think about. This way when a new element is introduced you will pick up on it right away. By the end of the course nobody or nothing should be able to get a drop on you it will enhance your abilities while your pet can see for you, you will have the ability to pick up on things that are hidden from sight"<tag Hope>

[Deleted]

==^==Send it to the lab doctor, I'll attend to it as soon as possible. There is something I need to attend to first. Meet me in the lab in one hour.Send it to the lab doctor, I'll attend to it as soon as possible. There is something I need to attend to first.==^==
==^==Okay. K'Vada out==^==
"Mr. Souhami prepare a sample of the liquid inside of the Breen." Sam ordered
"Uhm Sir, how do we get a sample?" Souhami asked.
"Well poke him with a needle." Sam said sarcastically "Just kidding beam it out of him. Also get all the scan results of the liquid on a PADD."

**one hour later**
Sam grabbed all his belongings and put him in his bag. He threw of his white coat and left for the science lab.

--Science lab--
Sam entered "sorry I'm late, I was caught up in the neurological scans of the Breen."
[TAG: S'reena]

"Here is the liquid, we found some peptides, nucleotides and fatty acids but I can't put my finger on the other components." Sam said
[Tag: S'reena]

[Deleted]

S'reena bowed to Wolf, signaling for Auric to take her usual perch, then smiled. "I shall be looking forward to that colonel," she answered, giving her most friendly smile as response. "Be sure to report to the captain if I do make any progress? I'd hate to keep him uninformed of his crew performance."

She turned and walked out of the holodeck, arriving at the science lab only seconds before the Andorian doctor did. Though of course, S'reena had no absolute knowledge on the CMO's heritage.

Sam entered "sorry I'm late, I was caught up in the neurological scans of the Breen."

"No apologies are necessary doctor," the Romulan replied, rising from her seat, "I only arrived here just before you did. I was caught up in a training session with Colonel Wolf." She winced as she moved too swiftly; Wolf had gotten her good, she was certain she'd be sporting a few bruises here and there, her ego not included.

"Here is the liquid, we found some peptides, nucleotides and fatty acids but I can't put my finger on the other components." Sam said

"I'm sure you are aware that I am blind?" S'reena suggested, somewhat irritable at the fact that the doctor was so thoughtless to suggest that she could see any results. "Feed the component through the scanner and set the computer to read out the results. Be sure to engage the EM scanner as well, perhaps electrical composition might be of use. Have you tried mass spectometry?" Surely the GS-MS would be able to identify certain components?

The Romulan approached the scanner, then placed a tiny amount of the liquid into it. "This may take a moment," she explained, "what have you found so far, that you might identify? What is the location of the liquid? Is it blood, urine, abdominal fluid, digestive fluid, liquor?"

[Deleted]

Looking at the Commander he bowed as a sign of respect and looked back up at her she was smiling a little. He was still upset about her comments earlier but kept that to him self.

" I will make sure the captain is updated with your progress Commander. He will be happy to learn that my estimates of your abilitys were off and you are futher along then I guessed. Remember what I said earlier Commander pratice on taking a mental image of everywhere you go. Make it a habit as soon as you friend there gives you the image focus with your senses get a feel of the place you are at. It will aid you more then you know not just in protecting yourself but in your work as well"

He watched her leave the holodeck when she was out of sight he lowered himself to the floor. He was sore the last throw she had used had sent him halfway across the room and he had landed hard. He had bruise in places that he couldn't reach and his wrist hurt Commander Hope was a lot strong then she knew. He couldn't afford at this point to let her know how sore he was and hid it from her. But he knew he was going to be feeling if for awhile and would have to cope with it.

Grabbing his things he walked out of the holodeck and head to his quarters to change. A few minutes later he arrived on the bridge and found the captain. Luckly he was only feeling sore right now but hid it well. It wasn't the first time a student had landed good blows or the last it was part of the training.

Walking down to where the captain sat " Captain Savot Commander Hope first session went well her abilitys are futher along then orignal thought. She still has some work ahead of her but she should do well."

They still had the Breen aboard which was why he had come to the bridge " The Breen are under going medical exams now under heavy security. Sir I was wanting to know how are we going to deal with them. How do we let them go and if we do let them go how do we stop them from building another one. I mean I know that we could wipe there memories but how do we justfy that to star fleet. We would be breaking regulations on treatment of prisoners if we do that."


" I will support what ever decisions you make sir but I dont want to see anybody getting into trouble. If the breen home world figures out what we may have done or not done they could loge a complaint. Unless of course they were exposed to something that could cause memory loss that we weren't aware of" <Tag Savot>

[SA. Stacey Jackson [Ret]]

Walking back onto the bridge slowly Commander Stacey Jackson took a moment to look around, Captain Savot was back in his command chair and the view screen showed stars slowly going by. All these things told Stacey that the Planet Killer had been ended and they were now back on course for Federation space.

A few moments later Colonel Wolf walked onto the bridge and straight toward Captain Savot.


Stacey walked closer and listened to what Wolf was saying.

" The Breen are under going medical exams now under heavy security. Sir I was wanting to know how are we going to deal with them. How do we let them go and if we do let them go how do we stop them from building another one. I mean I know that we could wipe there memories but how do we justfy that to star fleet. We would be breaking regulations on treatment of prisoners if we do that."


" I will support what ever decisions you make sir but I dont want to see anybody getting into trouble. If the breen home world figures out what we may have done or not done they could loge a complaint. Unless of course they were exposed to something that could cause memory loss that we weren't aware of"

Stacey stepped forward and said.

“If you don’t mind Captain.”

She looked to Wolf and said.

“The Breen government will have no choice but to accept the fact that their citizens had their memories wiped… Either they were aware of the fact they were building a weapon of mass destruction an did nothing to stop them or in fact aided the effort or… they had no clue as to the whereabouts and activities of the Breen in sickbay and that will be an embarrassment to them either way it is in the best interest of the Breen government to keep silent about what has transpired here… You will learn that no matter what government you deal with they always keep their failures quite.”

Stacey looked back to Captain Savot.

“I apologise for interrupting sir.”

Stacey stepped back and sat back down behind the console for the Counsellor before looking back up to Colonel Wolf and saying.

“I believe Colonel that I have a lesson coming soon just send me the time and I will be there.”

Stacey offered a smile and squeezed her left arm muscle

“I warn you though I have been working out.”

She grinned before looking down at her console and checking her schedule for the next twenty four hours.

[Deleted]

Looking Commander Jackson he understood what she was say, but he couldn't agree with it in his mind the issue had become a double edge sword.

" Commander Jackson you are right the Breen will keep quite but that does not make what we are going to do ethicaly right. We are talking about vilotating a speices basic civil rights by wiping there Minds. Why agree that the issue at hand is of greatest importance does it give us this right. We werent alone on this mission other races were watching what happened. If the Breen return home and nothing transpires then alot of other people are going to know what we did.

I"m not a big lover of the Breen but my job is the saftey of everybody aboard this ship. It requires me to protect everyone aboard that would include the Breen. I have to ensure that all speices rights are protected even if I dont care for them personally. The federation has laws to protect people from harm. While we may not think a mind wipe is harmful that does not mean Breen wouldn't. When you take a way a basic right control of ones body you undermine a person expectation of protection under the law. Before you go where I think your going to go let me continue. While yes I have secured them in the brig restrict there movement I'm control there bodys. At the same time we have laws and rules that make sure they are kept safe and free from harm.

We are opening a door that we might not beable to close. While we have the best intentions protection of all the races we are setting a example . By saying that is a good reason and it needs to be done we are allowing other races an excuse to do the same for reasons that might appear important to them but not to us. We are making a choice for somebody against there will.

Why we look at this as need for saftey somebody else might look at and say something differnt. They might argue why wasn't this presented to the council for a vote. Why didn't you look for other ways to stop them from building one. Did you ask them not to try again did you even communicat with them there could be reprecusions if they do.

Federations has laws and principles to up hold we have the moral obligation of doing whats right even if we dont want to. Once we take somebody rights away and try to say we were justfy we will have wiped out everything we stand for.

whether we agree or disagree at all times every person has right to protection under the law. They have legal right to say what may be done to there body. The breen are not injured they are not sick they are not really being held against there will. They came of there own free will but now we are talking about going into there minds and taking something way against there will. I just dont want us to be the example the next time somebody needs to do something to anybody or anything against there will in what they call a good reason. We lead by example sometimes thats the toughest part doing whats right even if you dont agree with it.

Think about Commander Jackson your on a mission you see something you weren't suppose to see. Somebody takes you says I'll let you go but I'm going to wipe your mind of what you saw. You dont want them to but they do anyway and true to there word they let you go. But they took something from you a very importan something one on which our principles were found freedom of choice. They vilolated your body against your will for there own protection does this give them the right to do that to you. While our courts say we can in prison you at no time does the court say we are going to force a medical procedure on you. We would be going against a species beliefs and thats a line I dont want us crossing. We dont know much about the breen but that doesn't make a differnce we must error on the side of caution. Once we cross the line even just one time we can't go back" <Tag Jackson

[SA. Stacey Jackson [Ret]]

Stacey stood up from behind her console and straightened her uniform,

“Colonel I do not need to be reminded of the principles of the Federation I swore to uphold and protect them before you were born while your argument has merit it is flawed in a few ways.”

She took a breath and took a more understanding tone of voice.

“The first thing to remember is they did not build the weapon in Federation space so in the eyes of the law we really don’t have a right to imprison them… we have no evidence that they planned to use this against the federation… while wiping their memories is a step I don’t like it is one I support… If we send them back to the Breen government with the knowledge to build another weapon, we have no way of knowing they won’t… And I will remind you they didn’t just see something they shouldn’t have they built something they shouldn’t have two very different things so your scenario involving me is again slightly flawed.”

She took another deep breath and cleared her throat.

“If we send them back memories intact and the build another weapon would we be able to live with ourselves knowing we had the chance to stop them now but didn’t?... a Planet Killer has the potential to kill tens of billions… a memory wipe will only affect those few Breen… It is a choice between two evils and in that situation; the lesser of the two is always preferable.”

She lowered her voice and leaned in so only Wolf could hear her.

“I am sure the classified section of your service record shows more than a few violations of the Federation charter... so I am sure you will grasp my argument.”

She leaned away from him and smiled.

“But the decision is not ours in the first place it is the captains and we will do as he orders.”

[Deleted]

Looking at Commander Jackson he didn't agree but she had made a point its the captains choice.

" Commander Jackson I respectfully disagree with you while you are right its not federation space this does not allow us to say our principles and moral beliefs stop at the edge of Federation space. You are right its the captains decision to make and I just want to make sure all points of view included that means yours as well.

But lets we remember that once long ago a goverment moved people off there lands and placed them on reservations against there will and called it for there own saftey. While this is not the case we are still forceing somebody to do something against ther will for the saftey of us all. Its easy to justy ones actions with good intentions but the best of intentions have caused serious problems. Thats why we have rules and laws sometimes they dont cover the problem at hand nothing less they are there for a reason. History will judge us on what we do here today lets hope that we are remembered kindly.

I dont like this anymore then the next person but its my duty to look out for the well being of my prisoners no matter my personal feelings about them. I have to ensure that there rights are protected no matter what they have done. Once we as civilized people start making up our own rules as we go we will fail to adhere to what the federation stands for."

He leaned back into Commander Jackson and whispered " You are right Commander about my past but pay heed. Its alot tougher to live with those choices and once you start making them and even hard to stop making"

Stepping Back " Captain Savot I will abide by your decision and follow what ever orders you give. Commander Jackson has a very good point chances are they would build another but lets hope that what ever we choose to do doesn't lead us to places we do not wish to go." <tag Savot>

[Savot]

Savot was about to interject during Wolf's first pause when Counselor Jackson asked if she could address the Colonel. The vulcan chose to allow it as he felt it important to know how Jackson related to the crew and how she would choose to address Wolf's concerns. As the tension level heightened and the dialogue became a debate, Savot realized he had erred in not listening to his first instinct. After listening to both officers state that the final decision would be the captain's to make, he rose from his chair and clasped his hands behind him at the small of his back.

Not looking directly at either officer he spoke slowly and directly, "Counselor, Colonel, walk with me." He led the way to the conference room just off the bridge and waited until all three of them were alone and the doors had shut before speaking again. "Forgive me. I had previously assumed that if there were concerns about my orders that my officers felt the need to express then those officers would have sufficient respect for protocol to do so in private. Clearly I was mistaken."

The vulcan stood behind the chair at the head of the table where he would normally sit during a mission briefing, his hands still clasped behind him. He turned first towards Wolf as he spoke, "To address events in order, I am pleased to hear an understanding has been reached with Commander Hope and that her level of readiness is promising. Secondly, before I even begin to address your individual points I remind you Colonel that as it is standard procedure to inform Starfleet Command in any situation of this magnitude, I would never fail to due so and have already sent them a report. However at this distance it will still take several hours to receive a response so until then it is my duty to prepare for any course of action they decide to take."

Savot didn't really have anything directly to say to Jackson, but rather had asked her to join them so she could hear the conclusion of this matter's discussion. He also wished her to hear his initial statements as a subtle reminder that it was inappropriate to perpetuate conversations questioning a captain's decisions in public. As such the vulcan's gaze remained on Wolf for the duration of his comments with an occasional facial gesture towards the Counselor when Savot referenced a point she had made.

"As a vulcan I have the utmost respect for any lifeform's mental rights and the sanctity of the mind. I have not arrived at this decision because it is the most convenient or because I felt insufficiently motivated to think of other solutions; I have done so because it is the least reprehensible of all the options I see before us", Savot stood almost statue-still but for the motions of his mouth as he spoke, and though his expression remained unreadable from the outside he did indeed feel regret that this choice was the only one feasible for them to make.

"You are a man of constantly changing priorities, Colonel. When first we returned to the ship you warned me of your concern at simply letting the Breen return to their homeworld, precisely based on the risk that they would use the knowledge they possessed against innocent lives in the future. We take steps to deprive them of that knowledge, and you find fault with that as well. Logically, only 2 other choices remain: we execute them, or we imprison them indefinitely. Now if I were particularly motivated to see them dead I can recall at least 8 sections of post-Dominion War statutes that would allow me to justify their execution on basis of continued war crimes conducted while trespassing in Cardassian space", Savot seemed as though he barely needed to pause for breath as he gave his complete thoughts on their situation.

"Alternatively, if we allow them to retain their knowledge of the weapon the only way to assure they cannot use it is to imprison them until they die. Given the choices, it seems more humane to me to deprive them of approximately 20 years of memories and give them the opportunity to make new ones for however long the average Breen lifespan is. Let us remember Mr. Wolf that these are intelligent beings; even if they never expected to be caught they were aware of the possible consequences of constructing a weapon such as they did. If a being willingly jumps from a 300 meter precipice, it is hardly reasonable to accuse the ground of murder."

"When the Breen chose to create this weapon they endangered the right of countless beings to even exist, and we are charged with those beings' defense as well. They did not choose to be put at risk, but the Breen chose to build this device, and by making that choice they risked forfeiting their rights since we now have no choice but to wrong them in one way or another in protection of galactic safety. Additionally, even now nearly a century since Captain Kirk's encounter with this technology, it is still vastly beyond our full comprehension and as such in my belief removing the Breen's memory of its workings falls within the parameters of upholding the Prime Directive."

Savot released his hands and reclasped them in front of him laying them on the headrest of his conference room chair as he concluded, "Those are my personal thought processes on the matter, and I repeat that Starfleet has been informed of everything that has occured and I await their instructions. However, should you wish it I will gladly enter a personal protest of this action into the ship's log for either or both of you."

<Insert any Wolf/Jackson response to this>

Giving his customary tilted nod to both of his officers, Savot then faced towards Commander Jackson, bowing his head slightly, "I need to speak to the Colonel privately at this time Counselor; thank you."

Waiting until her departure Savot gestured towards the other table seats, though he himself remained standing, "Have a seat if you wish, Colonel."

[Savot]

(Apologies for length and double-posting, twas a lot there to address)

After Wolf made his choice Savot continued, "I had wanted to wait in addressing this matter until our current scenario had been concluded but it's clear to me an understanding needs to be reached between us Mr. Wolf."

Tapping a set of controls on the table's surface Savot called up a segment of recorded communications logs he'd already located in the ship's computer archives and set them to play over the room's speakers, "You should recognize these recordings as those made during the hostage situation on the planet surface."

Pressing a final button, Savot stood silently and Wolf's recorded voice filled the room as the computer replayed a segment of ship's communications. =^=Sir we are going to need some help down here my team is locked in with the weapon and Roberts team now has to rescue shuttle and crew as well and Commander Jackson.=^=

Pausing for half a heartbeat, Wolf then added a final statement, =^=We have a card yet to play I'm sure they don't want us taking out their weapon, might be a useful threat. What I really need right now is a science officer I'm transmitting the scans of what we got right now.=^=

Savot's voice then came over the speakers as the computer played his recorded response, =^=Understood Colonel, I'm re-routing your transmission directly to Engineering so you can liase directly with them. Unless absolutely impossible, maintain your team's position and possession of the weapon. Will contact with further instructions, Bridge out.=^=

As Savot stood motionless, listening to the computer's playback, the recorded jumped forward to the next communication he had selected for playback, "This is a communication from you following Commander Hope's rescue."

Wolf's voice again filled the speakers, =^=Captain Savot I have control of the weapon even for a brief time, I have sent my team back to the surface they should be joining you shortly. The breen will get back into this room in about 10 to 15 mins depending how determined they are=^=, a brief pause occurred as the computer skipped to the next relevant area, =^=I'm hoping to disarm the weapon or blow it up.=^=

Savot pressed the same button once again this time to end the communication playback. Tilting his head slightly as though trying to determine Wolf's thought process, Savot returned his hands behind his back before speaking, "Your final statement would suggest that you believed my order for your team to remain in position was to assure we would be able to destroy the weapon if we had to. Presumably, your line of thought when you ordered your team to leave was that only one man would be required to detonate placed charges on the weapon, so the rest of the team would not be needed."

"There are 2 items in that thought process which are flawed, Mr. Wolf. First, you did not know the precise reasoning behind my order for your team to stay there, so your reasoning that only one man was necessary was incorrect. Also, even if that reasoning was accurate, there is no way to be certain that one man alone would be sufficient to guarantee the Breen did not reclaim the weapon."

Before Wolf could argue, Savot continued, "I agree that there is no technology the Breen are currently known to possess that would be capable of incapacitating you before you were able to detonate the charges. However, I point out that 24 hours ago the Breen were not known to possess Planet-Killer components either, so there was no guarantee in your success once you were alone."

"In either scenario, whether you'd guessed my intentions incorrectly or decided that your entire team wasn't necessary to fulfill those intentions, it was not your place to re-interpret or countermand my orders. Our missions frequently place us in confrontation with countless unknown variables whose actions we will be unable to predict. In order to offset the impact of those unknown variables, a captain requires a crew whose actions can be counted on with the utmost precision. If I must guess the actions of my own people I am completely incapable of facing the external forces we will encounter in our assignments."

Savot inclined his chin ever so slightly as though adopting a more formal posture, "I am not without concern for the lives of my crew, Colonel Wolf, and as such I can assure you that if I felt there was no need for them to be in danger I would not order them to remain in said danger. However, by your actions it is clear you either believe me to be careless with the lives of my personnel, or unable to adequately see the full scope of mission details. If that is the case, you are duty bound to report your concerns to Starfleet Command and recommend my dismissal as the El Salvador's commanding officer."

"I will in no way impede such a report, as if I am in fact unsuited to this position the Federation would be best served by my removal. If you do not wish to do this you may request a transfer under a commander you feel would better deserve your trust. If you wish to remain on this vessel; however, so long as it is under my command you will adhere strictly to the orders I give or you will be relieved of duty."

"Those are the options before us Mr. Wolf. I apologize if I have given you offense, Colonel, as personally I find you to be a man of exceptional character. But as Captain it is imperative I convey my expectations even if by doing so I render myself disliked."

[Deleted]

Sam entered "sorry I'm late, I was caught up in the neurological scans of the Breen."
"No apologies are necessary doctor," the Romulan replied, rising from her seat, "I only arrived here just before you did. I was caught up in a training session with Colonel Wolf." She winced as she moved too swiftly; Wolf had gotten her good, she was certain she'd be sporting a few bruises here and there, her ego not included.
"Here is the liquid, we found some peptides, nucleotides and fatty acids but I can't put my finger on the other components." Sam said
"I'm sure you are aware that I am blind?" S'reena suggested, somewhat irritable at the fact that the doctor was so thoughtless to suggest that she could see any results. "Feed the component through the scanner and set the computer to read out the results. Be sure to engage the EM scanner as well, perhaps electrical composition might be of use. Have you tried mass spectrometry?" Surely the GS-MS would be able to identify certain components?
"My apologies Cmdr. I was aware of your blindness, I didn't want to make you feel uncomfortable." Sam said as he turned red, why didn't say I wanted her opinion Sam thought. "This liquid is from the center of the Breen, I know it isn't blood. It must be some transporting liquid."
Sam feed the computer results in

Cmdr. Hope sat behind the computer.
"So can you help me, Cmdr." Sam asked "There are three inorganic components in this liquid, I can't make heads or tails of it."
[TAG S'reena]

"I hared you were a good science officer, that was an understatement. You could be the best CScO I've met. Thank you for your opinion, I need to talk to the capt."Sam said "When I'm done talking to the capt. I'll come around your quarter. I've promised your husband that I'd do a physical on you."
[TAG: S'reena]

Sam left for the Capt.

[Deleted]

Listening to his captain after Commander Jackson left, he had a feeling his actions on the planet were going to be the topic. He agreed with the captains assesment his actions were wrong he had grown to use to running on his own.

" Captain Savot I trust that what happens here will remain in this room and go no futher. You are right I made some wrong choices and should have cleared them with you. I had this conversation with Commander Jackson and realized that I was wrong. I'm sorry for that I have been use to being on my own program for so long that its hard to step away from.

I will make sure that I clear things with you and not secound guess what you are thinking. I have no plan of submitting any report to star fleet on your command ability. I was wrong I'm professional enought to admit it. I became to focused on the lives of people under my command. This is not to say I would throw lives away or that you would either, in recent months I have lost alot of people and just didn't want to loose anybody else.

Futher more I don't have a death wish when I order my team out, it was with the intention of Roberts using them to help save are missing crewmen. You are right and I will make sure that I clear things with you more often, I can't promise that it will be every time some times a mission doesn't allow that but I will ensure that your orders are followed to the best of my ability.

There is still one matter that i feel needs to be addressed, that is your safety. While you might have come to the logical conclusion that a trade was the best course of action I disagree. You put your life on the line while this is a noble and honorable thing its not acceptable you are the captain. You placed your life in danger it makes no differnce how logical your assesment may have been it was flawed.

Star fleet put regulations in place for a reason, to protect its captain. While you make think you can be replaced I disagree. This crew has gone through many changes it has not had a chance to come together yet. The loss of the captain would have prevented this from happening and caused more harm then good.

You have also stated that I'm a man of changing priorities, I ask you to take a moment and look at that with your logic. All my actions of recent events have been to ensure your safety. From ordering my team out to offering information to the klingons in exchange for your life. Two my arguments with Commander Jackson on the bridge which I do regret. They have should have been in private on not in front of the crew. Even still all my actions have been either to protect you from harm or protect you from your self.

Logic tells me that the needs of many out way the needs of the one. Reguard less of what star fleet may say you will choose a course of action to protect the many if that means you disobeying orders. I'm sworn to protect you at all times captain from all things including your self. My actions with Commander Jackson were to determine what course of action you were planning on taking and to ensure they dont endanger you.

I will make sure that this doesn't happen reguardless of your orders on this one matter. There are not to many people on this ship that prevent me from stopping you. My trainning makes certain of that, At the same time I have to ensure that I can offer you choices to choose from.

The Breen represent more then just a threat of building a weapon. They force you to make a choice that might be harmful to you and your command. I will not stand by and let this happen this ship can't afford to loose its captain. While you may think this is acceptable and logical you fail to take the emotions of this crew in to account. Human emotions are just as importan as logic. Whether you believe it or not you presence gives this crew hope they know with you in charge there is always hope. They draw comfort from you while you sit in the center chair, they believe in there hearts that you the captain will have answer to the problems we may face. With out you captain it would take this crew a very long time to come together again you are the glue that holds this ship together.

My mission is very clear on this that sometimes the need of the few out way the needs of the many and sometims the needs of the one. I will not under any circumstance allow you to hurt your self by allowing you to sacrifice your self for the needs of the many.

I have no wish to leave this ship or its captain. I will follow your orders and do my duty but I will allow no harm to come to you while I have options reguardless of how logical it may be to you. Sometimes Captain no matter how illogical it may sound you have to let others make the sacrifice for you. I can arrange for the Breen to be taken care of quitely and safely they would not be harmed that I can assure you. As a former Black ops officer there are more things here then meet the eyes. While Logic does say they can't keep this information the question does rise how did they come by it. While taking the information from the minds does stop them from building one it does not ensure that somebody else on the Breen home world wont.

They built the weapon the question is who else knows and how. Why we might slow them down it does not ensure that another one wont be built. The Breen are by know means stupid if somebody helped rest assured they have back ups. This information is closely guarded how it got out and by whom represents the bigger question.


The ball is in your court so to speak captain, I have no desire to leave you or this ship. But you must also accept the fact that I will do what ever I need to in order to protect you. With out causing harm to the federation or to this ship. I will abide by what ever you choose to do captain" <Tag Savot>

[Deleted]

"So can you help me, Cmdr." Sam asked "There are three inorganic components in this liquid, I can't make heads or tails of it."

"Considering there shouldn't be any liquid in a Breen's body, that's hardly surprising," the Romulan replied, as she moved over to one of the consoles in the science lab. "Thus, it certainly isn't spinal fluid or blood." She raised an eyebrow quizically. "Then again..." She fell silent, listening intently to the computer's quiet reportings, falling momentarily oblivious to the doctor's presence.

After a few minutes, she shook her head. "It's more of an oil substance," she then reported, "a lipid more than anything else, but what it's doing in a Breen body, in a fluid state, that's beyond me." She sat up a little straighter. "My guess would be that these are a form of mutant, bread to thrive on the planet we just came from. Perhaps with a means to infiltrate the Federation, without the need of their refrigerator suits, if they refrigerate at all."

She paused again, casting the Andorian a quizzical look, which appeared quite comical as she was blind. "I'm sorry if I'm not of more help to you doctor, but that's all I can come up with in so short a notice."

"I hared you were a good science officer, that was an understatement. You could be the best CScO I've met. Thank you for your opinion, I need to talk to the capt."Sam said "When I'm done talking to the capt. I'll come around your quarter. I've promised your husband that I'd do a physical on you."

The Romulan cringed at the mention of a physical. "Good luck on trying," she murmured after the retreating phycisian. "Doctor wait!" she called, rising to her feet, "I'm coming with you. I'm interested in hearing the captain's opinion on this as well. After that, you can escort me to my quarters and attend to that physical, if you like."

She held out her hand, waiting for the doctor's guiding arm, then allowed herself to be escorted back to the bridge. She needn't be a telepath to sense the frigid mood on the bridge, the tensed silence that was hanging there.

S'reena felt another hand on her arm and she tensed automatically. "Relax, it's Ian," her assistant murmured in her ear, "thank you doctor, I'll take her from here." Quietly, the human scientist led his boss to her station. "You just missed a good argument between Jackson and Wolf," he whispered to her, "I'd be interested to know which side you'd have taken." In hushed tones, he explained to her what had happened since she'd left the bridge.

"I am in agreement with Wolf on the fact that the captain needlessly risked his life," the Romulan replied, "however I do feel that whether Breen are an enemy of the Federation or not, they do not deserve to be treated inhumanely, nor do they deserve to suffer at our hands, simply because we might then suffer at theirs if we do not get them first. My people might not agree with that sentiment, as Romulans rarely keep prisoners, but that's my view on it."

"Ah," was all Ian replied, "well in that case I'm glad you weren't here to argue. You'd have gotten into a fight, I'm sure."

S'reena smiled knowingly. "I'm sure," she agreed, "and I'd have lost. Mr Wolf is a cunning fighter, trust me." She still felt her muscles protest at certain moves, and she rolled her shoulders experimentally, winching slightly. "Now, tell me what you've found so far."

Mood changing, Ian informed her that the planet killer had been destroyed and that planetary casualties were minimal to non-existent. "It was an uninhabited world," he explained, rising form his seat. "I'm going to visit Meadows in sickbay, I suggest you stay here and watch the sensors. Savot'll want an update soon enough. I'm still scanning the planet for seismic activity." He guided her hand to the necessary controls and handed her the ear-piece that'd allow her to listen without the entire bridge being privy to her work. "The planet's just not coming apart at the seams, but it's close."

S'reena nodded, already engrossed in her duties, and waved her assistant off in mock annoyance.

[Savot]

(Again apologies for long-windedness)

Savot listened as Wolf began speaking, nodding to the Marine in agreement that their conversation would stay between the two of them. He waited until the end to offer any reply, nodding slightly as he mulled over what Wolf had said, "Colonel I too possess neither a 'death wish' nor a martyr complex. When I went to the planet surface I had no intention of offering myself to the Klingon but in order to get close enough for the EMH to incapacitate her negotiation had to be maintained as long as possible."

"Upon watching the record of the communique the EMH could discern from the Klingon's body language and subtle expression nuances that her agreement to release Commander Hope and Mr. Forbes was a lie. At that point we formulated a strategy wherein I would transmit the EMH program to the Mini-Sal at the same moment I transmitted my landing coordinates to the Klingon; I then approached the Mini-Sal alone to divert the Klingon's attention, at which point the EMH was able to use the Mini-Sal's internal sensors to determine her location and activate himself just behind her. Each of the sample med-kits we'd prepared in the Chepstow contained a nerve agent that would cause total paralysis quickly enough that she would be unable to discharge her weapon on Commander Hope before it took effect."

Savot's head tilted slightly in a nod of admission as he continued, "Of course; you had no way of personally knowing my true intentions and as such assumed I intended to go through with the trade. That, Colonel, is where our mutual trust must come into play if we are to be capable of working together. While I must be able to depend on your following my instructions precisely; you must trust that whatever those instructions might be, they are as well thought-out as possible and in the best interests of succeeding in our mission while maintaining the safety of the entire crew including myself."

Looking towards the star-filled windows for a moment, the vulcan thought a moment before continuing, "I am not insensitive to the impact the loss of a commanding officer can have on a crew. I never knew Captain Irae to have difficulty reaching her crew or conveying her orders in a way everyone could understand and have 'faith' in; unfortunately my regrets will not alter the situation and as such I have no alternative but to fulfill the duties of Captain to the best of my ability."

"Again, Colonel, I ask you to trust that I will not take any conscious action that will deprive the El Salvador of its captain if I believe there is any way to avoid it. If Starfleet Command orders me not to remove the Breen's memory I will obey that order regardless of my personal opinion; and while I didn't intend to surrender to the Klingon I too am professional enough to admit that my going to the surface at all was in conflict with Starfleet Regulations. Unfortunately, at the moment in question there was no one left aboard the ship with sufficient experience to mount a rescue so my personal involvement was necessary in my opinion."

Savot looked back at Wolf, "I understand there will be times when you are unable to personally check with me before taking action; just so there are times like the 'trade' situation where I will be unable to explain my entire plan or the sense behind a given order. I will have to trust that in the times you cannot check with me, you will take action in a manner that in your belief ensures the safety of the crew while adhering to my general orders. By the same reasoning, in moments when I am unable to explain my orders or my 'grand scheme', you will have to trust that there is a reason for my orders and that they will adhere to Federation law and Starfleet Regulations unless I'm drastically convinced that it's necessary to violate those regulations."

"I remain skeptical as to the probability of the Breen central government being aware of this group's possession of Planet-Killer technology. If they were aware of it there would certainly be more benefit in extracting the technology from Cardassian space to be brought back to the Breen homeworld where it could be duplicated or reverse-engineered, than in leaving it in the hands of a small group in enemy space. It is more likely the technology had been adrift in space and at some point in the past, presumably before Cardassian space exploration began otherwise they would have secured it already, it was pulled into the planet's gravity well and crashed. The Breen, whether stationed here intentionally during the Dominion War or they crashed here themselves, discovered it and began construction of the weapon using other salvaged equipment at their disposal. However, if you wish you may interrogate the prisoners Doctor K'Vada is not currently examining as long as you adhere to Regulations for Prisoner Interrogation."

Savot leaned down slightly to work the table's console again to clear the communication recordings he'd played from the system's current program then looked to Wolf again, hands clasped at his back behind him, "We shall have to see if this necessary trust can be established on both our parts, Colonel Wolf, so for the moment there will be no change in your position aboard the El Salvador. We will revisit this discussion after our next mission and determine our level of success." Just as he'd done once after a similarly stern interaction with Mr. Roberts, and since it was also a practice often used in finalizing an agreement between two people or parties, Savot extended his right hand to the Colonel to shake if he felt so inclined.

<Wolf interaction and/or response>

Bowing his head, Savot dimissed the Colonel and they both exitted the conference room. Savot greeted Commander Hope when he saw her at the science station, and saw Doctor K'vada present as well on the bridge. Moving to join the physician, Savot arched an eyebrow slightly, "Your findings Doctor?"

<Tag K'vada>

[Deleted]

Looking at the captain and nodding his head he understood what he was saying. Sometimes there wasn't time to explain the order you just gave it and kept going. He smiled a little at the fact he would not need to find a new home he like this ship and its captain. The crew was starting to come together they still had a long way to go but they were at least on the road and moving in the right direction.

As the captain finished he saw his hand he knew that the captain was willing to try and he could do the same no more running rought shot he thought to himself. Standing up he took the captains hand and shook it. He thought very carefully about his next few words he want to make sure they were to the point and honest.

" Thank you for listening Captain and understanding my concerns. You will not have to worry about me following your orders I will follow where you lead captain. We have a new crew and there going to need the captain more now then ever to learn where they fit in on this ship. I will not take up anymore of your time you have more pressing matters to deal with. As for the Breen I really do not think much would be learned from them. We are not in a postion to deal from with them. I also will not under any circumstances make it appear that the captain is not a man of his word. We will wait and see what star fleet and this crew come up with to deal with them."

He was leaving the ready room when he stoped and turned to face his captain he came to attention and offered a Vulcan salute " Live long and prosper Captain Savot, with you in Command this crew and ship chances of over comeing all challenges has gone up. I will not fail you captain. No matter where you lead you will never have to question will I follow because I will always be right behind you watching your back"<Tag Savot>

As the both exited the ready he saw Commander Hope all of a sudden his shoulders and wrist started to hurt again. As he watch his captain ask them what there findings were he went to the tatical station to check on the ship. He also wanted to see the updates from his security team as well.

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James had been off duty and sitting in his quarters for quite sometime just listening to the faint sounds of music that had filled them. Duty for him had ended for quite sometime when he'd realized that perhaps the ship's Doctor was finally finished he walked carefully over to his console on the desk and pulled up the ship's roster finding that a new doctor had indeed checked on board shortly thereafter himself.

He read through the biography and Starfleet records quickly before discerning how to contact him, deciding that it best to try and do it over commlink, he pressed his badge listening to his own chirp, "Ensign James Fire to Doctor K'vada, I would like to schedule my check up as soon as you've got something available." He replied into the badge and awaited a reply.

<Tag Sam>

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"Greetings captain," The Romulan returned, without shifting her attention from her readings. The sensor feed was constant, both internal and external sensors. "Cardassians aren't following," she reported dutifully, "not quite anyway. They seem to be headed in the opposite direction. I'm not getting any readings from the Breen, I don't understand why."

This time, she did look up and turn around. "Are they still there?" she asked, of no-one in particular. She had noticed Fire had returned to the bridge and knew K'Vada hadn't left yet. "Doctor, have you had a chance to discuss our findings with the captain yet? I'm curious to hear what the result was."

From across her console, Auric warbled a warning. Swiveling back around, joined quickly by Forbes who chose that exact moment to return to the bridge, she returned her attention to the screen.

"Captain!" she suddenly called out, dropping the earpiece that allowed her to hear the sensor input. "Breen ships approaching at high velocity. They're coming in hot!" She swiveled around to the tactical officer. "I'm feeding you my data," she called out, "four Breen vessels, heavily armed."

Forbes leaned over to interpret the data, then nodded in confirmation. "I don't think they're too happy with us destroying their installation," he mused, then fell as the ship was struck hard by Breen weapon's fire. He groaned as he climbed back to his feet, only to be thrown off again as another volley hit the El-Salvador.