Mission 23: Would Angels Fear ?

[Carl Torek]

~ Mission 23: Would Angels Fear ~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Mission devised by
Lt Commander Alex Watson


Synopsis:

Following the events of the Raven's Mission to Cordovin IV, charges of assassination have been laid at Carl Torek's door by a secretive cult within the government. The charges are false, but examination of the evidence against the Commodore by the Senior Staff of the Raven has shown that the fabrication is of such high quality to be almost indistinguishable from genuine data ... This prompts the Federation Council to allow the Cordovin to begin their investigations into the deaths and to pursue the extradition of Torek back to their Homeworld to face charges.

To further complicate matters ... Using the information both he and the Commodore received on touching the 'Stones of Quincunx' El-Kamat, the leader of this mysterious cult, has escaped into space in search of an ancient Weapon of Mass Destruction. Can the crew of the Raven prove Carl's innocence, can they stop El-Kamat, and what will they do if they can't ?

ooo000ooo


As the mission begins, Torek has been accused.
Will his crew be able to clear his name, and the reputation of the Raven
More importantly, will they be able to prevent El-Kamat fulfilling his goal

Hope you enjoy !!!

Regards

Lt Cmdr Alex Watson
Cdre Carl Torek

[Carl Torek]

Carl watched the massive doors to Admiral Tetsutarô's office close, an occurrence in itself. Making anything said in this room private and confidential, but more importantly, 'Official' ... He couldn't fail to notice the reaction the simple shutting of a door had got from the people outside. Barton turned from the door and approached the ornate bar. Accepting a glass of amber liquid, he seated himself to one side of the desk, where her could see both men as they talked.

"You are aware of the charges Carl ?" Sato Tetsutarô said quietly.

"Sir ....." Carl began, but was interrupted by a knock on the door. The Admiral's aide entered and informed him their 'guest' had arrived.

"Show her in Tom." Sato replied.

Carl couldn't believe it when one of Cordovin's ruling Class, almost Royalty, entered the room. She didn't even look at Torek, but went straight to the chair that had been provided.

"May I introduce Madame Elder Gesain of the Cordovin Ruling Council." Sato said.

"I must thank you for allowing my presence Admiral, but I fear we must move forward quickly. My planet is in mourning for our lost ....." Gesain said, giving Torek a look of what, hatred, sympathy, he couldn't tell to be honest, "We feel the Federation has no option but allow the extradition of this man to face his accusers."

"Madame ...... We are, of course, sympathetic to your loss, but we cannot simply hand over one of our most senior Officers without a thorough investigation." Captain Barton said.

"Our continued relationship with the Federation is teetering on your actions Admiral." Gesain said, ignoring the JAG investigator completely, "Should we feel you are doing less than everything possible to bring a prompt conclusion to our request ... We would need to reconsider our alliance !"

"If you will permit me Madame ....." Tetsutarô said, picking up a PADD and turning to Carl, "commodore Torek ... The charges against you are numerous, but the principle accusation is that, on star date nine eight point zero two two three, you willfully destroyed a government complex. Causing the deaths of numerous occupants, including six Council Members. These charges have been brought by the Ruling Council of Cordovin IV ... Do you have anything to say Commodore ?"

Carl sat in complete silence for a long moment, looking at his mentor, knowing how the man must be feeling to put these ridiculous charges to him, but he just couldn't find the right words to say.

"Very well ... Your silence is noted ... I must inform you that pending the outcome of the investigation, you are hereby relieved of Command of the USS Raven-B .. Given your standing and rank, I am placing you under 'House Arrest' and under your own recognizance ... But will not be allowed to ......"

"I MUST PROTEST !" Gesain shouted, almost jumping out of her seat.

"NOTED .... MADAME ! ....." Sato said, before calming himself, "I will vouch personally for this man, he has been a member of my family since his birth, and he would do nothing to dishonor the loyalty to myself, or his family ... Now, if you would excuse me Madame, I need to go through the charges in detail with the Commodore and Captain." Sato finished, making the dismissal a requirement and not an option ... Madam Gesain stood, glaring at Torek then Tetsutarô before moving toward the door.

"We will be watching this man closely Admiral, and should we feel he is in danger of flight, or there is 'ANY' evidence the Federation is attempting to cover for him, then we will take his capture and detention into our own hands !"

With that comment she left the office ... Sato looked at his student with sad eyes. That the man before him could be accused of anything so heinous was unimaginable, but due process must be seen to be followed in such matters.

"We will resolve this Carl. I give you my word." Sato said, coming around the desk to place his hand on the mans shoulder, "Please do nothing to 'upset' that woman. The last thing I need is to find they have snatched you from the docks and whisked you off for some kangaroo court just to get their satisfaction. Go back to the ship. be with those girls of yours, I'm sure they are worried. I will inform you of who will be taking Command of the Raven for the duration of the investigation in due course."

Admiral ..." Carl said, standing, "My Executive Officer is more than capable of temporary command in my absence. Please allow him to take over. The last thing the crew need is a new CO at this point."

"Very well ... Inform Commander Watson he will be in Command of the ship pending a resolution to this damn issue. I will expect Command codes to be transferred within the hour. He is 'Caretaker' only Commodore, and while the ship remains in space-dock. You will need to make that clear."

"Thank you Admiral." Carl said, bowing slightly out of respect for the man before him before he turned and left the office ... Once out of the command center he headed straight for the Raven. he needed to speak to Alex, quickly, then he needed a drink, because he knew how much the realization he had been taken from the Raven, for however long, was going to hurt ... Badly ! ..........

[Calli Valente]

As Carl left the office, a door to one side opened ...

"These charges against him are ridiculous Uncle, you know that don't you ?" Calli said, referring to the Admiral in her familiar way when alone together.

"I do indeed my child, but that does not negate the fact that we must be seen by all to be doing what we must. No-one is above the law, you know that more than most." Tetsutarô replied, offering Calli her second favorite drink, "You said in you report that a 'part' or 'essence' of Commodore Torek had taken possession of your body, though throughout the whole time you were aware, as if in a dream state ?"

"Yes, and before you ask there was no way the essence could have taken over completely. We were all aware of ourselves almost from the start."

"Almost ?" Sato repeated, sitting forward to look at Calli closely.

"Well ..... At first, at least from my own point of view, I 'was' the reckless, impulsive, shoot first ask later part of the Commodore, but gradually became aware that I was, well, me, for want of a better explanation." she replied, a slight frown forming, as if an infinitesimal fraction of doubt had just surfaced, "But even so Uncle, we all retained the memories of the time we were joined. Like one of those dreams you just can't recall one hundred percent."

"Then ... There may be a cause for concern, if indeed you are unaware of portions of the time Torek was inside your mind ?" Sato asked, as if probing for some snippet of detail to justify the claims by the Cordovin's.

"No. It would have been impossible for any essence to have taken over the host, taken time to acquire explosives, plant the devices, 'AND' detonate them from the Raven, without the host retaining at least a fragment of the memory themselves ..... Besides that, given the way the four of us acted while 'joined' there certainly wasn't one that became a mass-murdering psychopath hell-bent on revenge for whatever reason. Commander Blakus seemed convinced that 'He' alone was the real Torek, while, Commander Watson seemed to have acquired the 'intelligence', and Vulcan side. The Marine, Major Tavik, I'm pretty sure if you had jumped out to surprise her she would have passed out with shock. It was all we could do to keep her walking to be honest ... As for me, well you know what I got." she finished with a shrug, hoping her reasoning was solid and convincing. The last thing she wanted was doubt rising, especially with JAG involved and a possible 'Courts Martial' on the cards. It could finish Carl in Star fleet and hand him to the Cordovin's !

"I would like you to remain aboard the Raven my child." Tetsutarô said, seemingly satisfied with her argument, "At Carl's request I have appointed Commander Watson Captain in his absence. He is new, and I think he would benefit from your experience ... Would that be acceptable to you, or would you prefer to go back to Earth ?" he finished, a sly, insightful grin forming on his face.

"I would like to remain on the ship yes." Calli assured him.

"Good ... Good ..." the Admiral said, a thoughtful look forming, "I have granted you level ten access my child, I want you to do everything possible to help Carl. He is, as you know well, like a Son to me, and I would feel much sorrow if he were to suffer this situation any longer than necessary."

Calli stood and walked around the large desk. She bent and kissed her Uncle on the top of his head, before taking his hand gently.

"We will do all we can Uncle. I promise you." She left the office and headed toward the turbo-lift. She was almost heart-broken at the thought that the Commodore's conviction would hurt the Admiral so much. Carl was indeed like a member of his family. Sato had mentored him from a very early age.

Entering the 'lift she requested the promenade level, then changed her mind, she would go back to the ship first, then with luck later that evening everyone was meeting in Carl's favorite bar, O'Tooles, to celebrate the promotion and appointment of Will to Captain of the Rainier. She just hoped the issues facing Torek and the crew wouldn't spoil his night ..........



< tag : All >

[Andae Blakus]

"I've looked up the news stories coming in from Cordovin. Their evidence is good. Well, I mean...it's all fake of course, but its a very, very good fake. It might even be good enough to persuade Command. If I didn't know it, I'd say it was as good as concrete..."

Andae wasn't ready to give up on proving Carl's innocence. In fact, he probably never would be. They couldn't just let JAG and the the predations of the wrathful Cordovin government walk all over their CO. They were his crew; it was as much their job to protect him as it was his to lead them.

"I'd be interested to know the process of how they fabricated the evidence," he said. "Perhaps we can start digging into their governmental organisation? See how their justice system works and who's pulling the strings. Even if it is just El-Kamat, or whoever's in charge of the rebels now."

Calli, Alex and Will all nodded their heads. There was no harm in a spot of private investigation, although they'd have to take steps to ensure JAG and the brass didn't discover their meddling. They didn't need the Admirals thinking they were trying to pervert the course of justice.

* * *

Andae returned to engineering in order to oversee the arrival of the final group of maintenance personnel from the Starbase. The gold-overalled crewmen filtered in, carting hover-gurneys of replacement componentry, console struts and so on. The CEO stood with Milyanov and watched them pass by, making a concerted effort to show his disapproval without appearing overt: tutting, and shaking his head minisculely. The maintenance crew took absolutely no notice of him.

After a while, he slid into his office, sat at his desk and opened up his terminal. He requested of the computer that the noise from without be muted as much as possible, and began reading through what was known about Cordovin governmental structure.

Information was quite limited to his surprise. They seemed to possess a parliamentary legislature, made up of a conglomeration of nobles, deputies selected by population and meritocratically appointed citizens. This seemed a promising start if they were to reject outright corruption, although they already knew that Kamat and friends could be involved, so perhaps corruption was a given. And of course, what was written in the constitution didn't necessarily translate to real life. He'd have to study closer to find out how these organs were actually functioning.

A higher body seemed to be the Ruling Council, which was also the office of the head of state. Such a name, he thought, seemed to suggest only one thing: that it was they who held the real power. However, according to the Cordovin's constitution the name was tradition only. The Council executed matters of law on behalf of the parliament, and were fully accountable to and elected by it. They simply carried out the duties of the parliament between its sittings. But Andae somehow doubted that. He was a natural cynic, but he also recognised that type of government from Earth's history. Many authoritarian regimes had operated under such a system, in which the legislature acted as a mere rubber stamp for the decisions made by a select few - maybe even just one or two individuals.

He shut his terminal and leant forward in his chair, thinking hard. His next step would be to read up on their justice system, and see how that related to their governmental order. First, however, there were things that needed celebrating, and drinks that needed drinking...


Blakus strode into O'Toole's with a lady on his arm. She had accepted his offer to come along, much to his surprise. The scale patterns on her neck were glistening with whatever moisturiser or oily substance she was using; the engineer found himself quite mesmerised.

Some of the Raven crew were present. He noticed one of the engineers at the bar, and gave a small wave. It seemed the man of the moment was yet to arrive. An oldfashioned clock hanging on the wall chimed next to him and the lady, startling the both of them. It had just gone 7 o'clock.

At that moment he heard a burst of laughter from around the corner of the bar. He walked further in, and was presented with the sight of most of the senior staff, including Captain Jamison. All had drinks and the celebrations seemed in full swing.

"Commanders, Major," he nodded at each in turn, smiling slightly as he joined them. "Will... Congratulations." He pumped the new Captain's hand enthusiastically, laughing, "You beat me there." On his other arm was the Cardassian lady. "Oh, this is Malira. I met her on the promenade. Malira, my fellow crew."

While the atmosphere on the surface seemed relaxed, Andae registered a tension in the air. Body language was off and laughter died in throats, barely perceptibly. The spectre of Carl Torek's absence was looming over them.

<Tag All>

[Aeryn Tavik]

It would seem self-evident that things were amiss, but for the Raven and her captain, evidence was something that was against them. Far be it from any possibility of truth, the support that was now to codemn Commodore Carl Torek to court martial, extradition, Cordovin Trial, and likely certain death was convincing, almost too convincing. For now, it came down to the JAG office to determine the future of the Commodore, someone of whom Aeryn had come to trust. This was a time where justice and truth fell on separate sides of a river and where fallacy created a bridge between the two. It was obvious that the JAG office would be forced to give Torek over to Cordovin officials. This meant that if the Raven crew wanted their Captain released, they would need to find the truth, so that proper justice can be upheld. However that would happen, Aeryn would be sure to be apart of it.

As soon as the Raven docked at Starbase Forty-Seven, Aeryn left the marine contigent in the capable hands of her executive and ordered that the troops be granted shore leave. As a marine, one knew that you were always on call, ready to beam into the thick at the drop of a hat, but since this was unlikely docked at Starbase, Aeryn ordered a little R&R. Aeryn herself beamed to the base. Entering the promenade gave Aeryn a sense of security, albeit a weak one. Given recent events, it would seem that no one was safe from anyone in the galaxy. Until justice was served, every man and woman would now have to live in fear that they might be next on the list. Aeryn shook her head, not one to take threats idly and let them win her over. As she wandered the promenade in search of distraction, Aeryn, the master planner when it came to any kind of tactical situation, considered the possibility that maybe all of this was meant to happen. Not saying Torek was guilty, but that he was spefically targetted because of his close proximity to the situation and that he and his crew were nothing more than cannon fodder to a more brilliant master plan. It disgusted Aeryn, making her want to hide away in shame, but there were more pressing concerns for her to deal with, like figuring out a way to prove the Commodore was innocent or finding a way to crack through the fallacy. She was no good when it came to computers. Aeryn was a "hands on" kind of girl. In her time at Starfleet Academy, before she joined the Marines, she studied engineering, more specifically in energy particles and weapons systems. She had become an expert in building a variety of personal weapons. She had some experience with starship weapons, but that was more primarily field based, including knowledge of what types of weapons are better in specific circumstances. Her true expertise was in ground combat, as shown in her marine academy record. Tactics and weapons was the traditional title and as every other marine recruit, she had developed a excellent piloting capability, though not particularly using large starships. She could certainly do it, but she was more comfortable in single seat fighters and shuttles in space, and very fast moving vehicles on the ground. Few people knew that on her time off, she would venture to the outer rim of the Federation and participate in space races. Most were dangerous, but that was the exhilarating part. Beating the odds was Aeryn's job, and that is what she did.

Finding a suitable distraction had proven difficult. With all that troubled her mind, she couldn't choose anything that seemed ... fun .... in the present circumstance. In light of the typical standing orders for a marine CO, one of her orders was to find new weapons to make her unit more successful in combat. It was almost Borg-like, but in any case it was the marine's job to protect the crew at any cost, even their own lives. Aeryn herself would die for her duty. She had nothing else to live for. Though these thoughts were at the forefront of her mind, she couldn't help but find her way to O'Tooles, the Commodore's favorite bar. As she walked in, she saw that there were already several of the Raven's crew there, partying in celebration of the departure of their own Will Jamison, who had finally been promoted to Captain and given his own command. It was well deserved on all fronts, and she was proud to call him friend. But after saying her hello and congratulations to him, she backed off into a quiet corner to think. Nothing, not even a good friend's promotion, was more important than saving an innocent man from certain death. That was a problem....

[Deleted]

Harry was taking his sweet old time with his drink, enjoying every last drop. For whatever reason, it tasted extra special today. He and Daya had remained somewhat silent for a little while, though for them, there was really nothing to be silent about. Their ship was slated to return any minute now and Harry could get back to doing what he did best, pushing buttons in a seemingly random sequence on the bridge ops console. It was always good fun.

Soon he realized that there were quite a few more people in the bar, mostly starfleet crew. He recognized quite a few of them, being mostly from the Raven.

Turning to Daya, Harry said, "Raven must be back. Some of these are your new security and tactical officers."

"Nice bunch," Daya said.

Harry rolled his eyes at his friend's response and looked back at the crew. As he eyed each of them, he noticed a somber demeanor. They all seemed to be down. Something was certainly wrong. He watched several of the senior staff meander to one of the private rooms, along with many of the rest of the crew. One in particular caught his eye.

"Looks like they are all going for a private party. Let's go crash it," Harry said. He and Daya got up and walked back into the private room. It appeared as if someone was getting promoted. Good for whoever that was. It wasn't coming to Harry anytime soon. He felt he'd be a lieutenant forever, even with his heroic display on his previous outing with the Raven. But who was he to go bucking for a promotion. Slapping Daya on the back as if to give him a push forward, he said, "Go on. Get up there and introduce yourself." He pushed Daya off.

(Tag Daya, good luck )

Harry scanned the small crowd for the object of his glancing earlier. He did not see her in the main clump, rather sitting by herself considerably separated from the group. She did not appear to be in a festive mood. He walked over to her.

"Well, who's getting thrown overboard?" Harry asked sarcastically.

Aeryn, the marine commander, ignored him.

Harry raised an eyebrow. "What's got you all hot and bothered?"

Still she remained silent, not even turning to look at him.

Harry was rather confused. He looked back at the main table, where most of the senior staff was sitting. While they were all celebrating the apparent promotion of Will Jamison who it appeared, had been promoted to Captain, Harry could sense that the celebration was only half hearted. He sat down across from Aeryn. "Aeryn, seriously, what's going on?"

She looked up at him, a tear in her eye, as if he should know what was going on. "Do you not read logs? Ugh....men." She got up and stalked off out of the bar.

Harry sat back, in a slight bit of shock. "Hmm..."
----------------------------------------------------------------

After saying his congratulations, Harry quickly took his leave of the establishment and made his way back to the ship. As he was brought onboard, the transporter chief informed him that at the time, he was head of the operations department, something he wasn't at the moment fond of. He made his way to his quarters and immediately went to his personal computer console.

"Computer, bring up all logs pertaining to the Raven's last mission."

//Files available//

He began to scan through them, mentally documenting a general idea of what had occured. As he neared the end, a warning file signalled, meaning the file was meant for the Raven crew.

"Access restricted file. Wedlerson, Beta-Pi-one-seven."

The screen flashed and revealed what Harry was absolutely certain was the problem with the Raven crew. He sat back in his chair, astounded by the claims being made. What were they going to do?

[Marionette]

Marionette had efficiently settled into her quarters, which ironically, resembled Jr officers quarters which were awkwardly converted into half-20th century sound studio, and half-workshop-with-a-bed and sonic shower, with the replicator positioned between the 2 halves of the room.

Marionette had also scanned most of the files pertaining to the most recent mission, as well as the alleged evidence of The Incident Regarding Commodore Torek.

Marionette arrived at the bar, and consulting a map on a PADD, made her way to the private rooms. Afew of the bridge officers were already there, but it seems things were well already underway. She would introduce herself, but it seemed she had stepped in on the toast.

Being offered a flute of wine, she took it and remained silent for the time being, and mimed the others in the promotion of their commanding officer into the captain of the USS Rainier, and the concurrent rise in rank of now-commander Wendlerson.

For now, Marionette would remain in the background.

<tag; all ?>

[Carl Torek]

Carl didn't hurry back to the ship. No-one knew about the outcome of the meeting with the Head of Federation Security yet, but gossip had the uncanny knack of getting out, through the most inconspicuous of channels at times, he knew that full well, and with the news reports circulating, people will likely realize there's only one course of action the Federation can take, regardless of their 'opinion' on the charges against him.

~~~~~~~~~~

Entering the walk-way onto the ship he tapped his Comm badge ...

=^= Torek to Commander Watson =^=

=^= Watson Sir =^=

=^= Alex .. Meet me in my ready room as soon as you are free OK =^=

=^= On my way Sir =^=

=^= No .. Give me fifteen minutes .. Torek out =^=

The Comm closed and Carl made his way to his quarters ..... Once there he headed for the bedroom and threw his tunic on the bed. He took out civilian clothes and got changed. Catching a glimpse of himself in the mirror, he realized suddenly that this was the first time in his career as a Star Fleet Officer that he was out of uniform due to regulations. With one last glance at the five gold pips on his tunic, he left his quarters and headed for the Bridge ... Alex was waiting and followed his Commanding Officer into his office. Carl got them both a drink and Alex knew better than to point out his duty status, but waited for the man to speak.

"I've been relieved." Carl said suddenly, holding his hand up to prevent his Exec' from voicing his shock, "It was inevitable Alex. But don't worry, I'm not being held, I have the run of the station." he finished, a wry smile forming.

"This is obviously some sort of ......" Alex began.

"It's done ... So now we need to sort out what is happening next." Torek said, suddenly enjoying his drink, "You are taking Command of the Raven for the duration of the investigation ... No, there's no point in arguing with me on this, you can do it, and you have some good people here to help all you need them too should the Raven be called away, which isn't likely to happen."

< tag : Alex >

"I'm guessing they will send a team of investigators to Cordovin. Not that it will help. I'm pretty sure any and all 'evidence' in this case is going to be pretty solid, but you never know ...." Carl shrugged, "Right, pending anything from Star Fleet, we have a celebration to get to, lets make sure Will gets a good send off. The last thing we need is his taking Command of the Rainier being held up ... Let's get to O'Tooles and have a drink ... Or several, given I'm hardly going to be getting up early in the morning." he finished, getting up and heading for the door.

"I just have a few things to do Sir and I'll be there ...... We'll get through this Commodore." Alex said reassuringly.

"Finish up and get to the bar. First rounds are on me." Carl said, leaving his Executive Officer alone in the ready room.

~~~~~~~~~~

As he entered the bar, Carl was almost run down by his Senior Marine Officer ... She apologized, siting an urgent matter requiring her attention, and saying she would be back as soon as she was able. He headed for the bar ... Sean had obviously seen him walking in, and was already preparing his drink.

Carl almost laughed at what the bar owner put in front of him ... A tall glass of liquid, adorned with a small paper umbrella, and numerous pieces of fruit speared on cocktail sticks, finished off with the obligatory bendy straw.

"You look like someone who could do with this Carl." Sean said, trying hard not to laugh out loud at his friends' expression.

"What the HELL is that ?" Torek said, laughing with the bartender.

"THAT ... Mo Chara, I'll be having you know, is what a 'real' zombie should look like, with all tha frillies." Sean said, in his best Gaelic accent, feigning upset while taking all the forestry and vegetation out of the glass so Carl could get at the drink within, "Your crew is in the back room there buddy, I'll make a refill while you are drinking that one." he finished.

Carl drank the zombie almost in one. The rums burned the back of his throat as they always did on the first drink, but it didn't matter in the scheme of things he decided. He could see Alex making his way to the bar.

Taking the replacement off Sean, asked him to give his Exec' whatever he wanted, then both men headed to the back room and entered. Everyone did their best 'not' to give any impression they knew, but it was obvious they all had an idea. Carl tapped his glass several times to get every-ones attention ...

"OK ...... You are all by now aware of the charges brought against me." he started, then waited for the rumbles of shock to die down, "There is to be an investigation, but in the mean time I have been temporarily relieved of Command of the Raven ... Commander Watson will be taking my place for the duration of the inquiry, I'm sure you will all do your best to support him ... Now, let's get this party started ... Will, if you would join me ..."

Jamison came to the front and stood with Carl, as Torek took two glasses of Champagne off the offered tray and handed one to his friend.

"Firstly ... I would like to announce the promotion to Commander, and appointment as acting Chief Operations Officer, of Harry Wedlerson. Commander Wedlerson will be looking after Ops until a permanent appointment can be assigned ... Congratulations Commander ... Now, to the main business ... I would like to offer my most heart-felt congratulations, to Captain Will Jamison on his promotion, and appointment to Commanding Officer. If his ability as an Executive Officer is anything to go by, I can say confidently that the USS Rainier has gained one hell of a Captain ... Will, you will be sorely missed on the Raven. God speed and fair winds my friend. It isn't often a Captain get's to toast 'two' promotions so ..." Carl said, raising his glass, "Captain Will Jamison ... Commander Wedlerson."

"Captain Will Jamison ... Commander Wedlerson." the group said in unison, raising their glasses for the toast.

< tag : Will / Harry >

Once Will and Harry had accepted the toasts, the group went back to their previous conversations. The Senior Staff wished Will all the best in their own way, and a spontaneous round of applause began as the newly appointed Captain departed ...

Carl took another drink off Sean, who had come in to help with service, and started to enjoy the party, despite what was hanging over him if things didn't go his way in the forthcoming investigation ..........



< tag : All >

[Aeryn Tavik]

Taking some time to relax and let the steam off, Aeryn stood leaning against the wall of the outer edge the bulkhead surrounding and protecting Starbase Forty-Seven. She stared out the window at nothing in particular and thought about the situation and how inconsiderate Harry was being. She thought the entire situation was of utmost importance, and finding out whatever they could to prove Torek's innocence and Harry needed to get with the program.

Aeryn slowly walked back towards the bar, intending on at least being present so she could save face. As she entered, she walked up to the bar to get another drink from Sean, the bartender. "Please, by all means make it something stiff. I don't want to remember the last seven minutes."

Sean smirked a little and asked for a moment. Then walked to the other side and started mixing a drink. He walked back and handed her a large glass. "Try this and see how this works for you."

Aeryn took the glass. "Thanks." She walked back into the private room.

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

Walking in a just right time, Aeryn heard Commodore Torek tap on the glass to get everyone's attention.

"Firstly ... I would like to announce the promotion to Commander, and appointment as acting Chief Operations Officer, of Harry Wedlerson. Commander Wedlerson will be looking after Ops until a permanent appointment can be assigned ... Congratulations Commander ... Now, to the main business ... I would like to offer my most heart-felt congratulations, to Captain Will Jamison on his promotion, and appointment to Commanding Officer. If his ability as an Executive Officer is anything to go by, I can say confidently that the USS Rainier has gained one hell of a Captain ... Will, you will be sorely missed on the Raven. God speed and fair winds my friend. It isn't often a Captain get's to toast 'two' promotions so ..." Carl said, raising his glass, "Captain Will Jamison ... Commander Wedlerson."

"Captain Will Jamison ... Commander Wedlerson." the group said in unison, raising their glasses for the toast.

Aeryn shook her head at Wedlerson's promotion. One more thing to add to her list of proverbial grievences. She took her seat back and looked at the beaming new commander for a moment, before he took his leave to go off to the ship. Gulping half of her drink down in one swoop, she sat back, waiting for the next move.

(tag ALL)

[Deleted]

"Captain Will Jamison ... Commander Wedlerson."

"Thank you. Thank all of you." Will replied with a slight shade of red dawning his cheeks. "I am honored to be here to share this moment with so many friends and I meant when I said thanks. A starship commander is only as good as her crew and it's you guys and gals that do all the hard work and make us look good. If any of you ever need a change of scenery, look me up. I'm sure I can find you a spot on the Rainier." he said with a laugh.

Once everyone returned to their own conversations, Will turned to his former CO.

"First, if it's okay with you, I'm taking Delek to the Rainier with me." he said with a grin before becoming completely serious. "Second. What's gonna happen with you and this investigation? We both know it's a load of crap."

<Tag Torek>

"Well if you need me to testify or anything, you know where to find me." Will said.

[Marionette]

"Captain Will Jamison ... Commander Wedlerson."

Marionette raised her glass as the others did, and also joined in the declaration.

If anyone would question why she, not yet recognized as a new crewmember of the Raven, was there in a closed party setting, Marionette would aptly blow them away with both an invitation and map to O'Tooles, signed by Torek, as well as Starfleet transfer and position orders as the new Cheif Navigation Officer.

[Andae Blakus]

Blakus nodded and said the toast along with everyone else, volumously so that his pleasure at this double promotion was known. It was a relief to be celebrating something, even if a serious crisis was developing with Carl's command status.

The very thought of the current Federation-Cordovin relationship disgusted Blakus, made him feel queasy. How dare this upstart new UFP member, that'd effectively kidnapped the Commodore, then try to accuse him of assassinating a government official?

But he knew that at this point not much could be done to influence the proceedings. JAG would work independently and make its recommendation to the brass. And then of course the Cordovin would make their move to have Carl extradited...

The Raven's crew needed their commanding officer; not just for his leadership, but for the knowledge in his head. The Gandai station; its whereabouts; possibly Kamat's plans.

After Will took his leave the attentive circle of Raven officers broke up, falling into small pockets of conversation. Blakus wheeled around and found himself facing the new positronic crewmember.

"Ensign Marionette?" he asked, "I'd heard we were having you aboard. I'm Commander Andae Blakus, chief engineer. Welcome." He smiled, raising his glass to clink with the android female's but realising she didn't have one yet. The smile slid from his face but he recovered. "Do you drink?" he enquired.

Of course, he was fascinated by the android species. An artificial brain of such complexity that it was at least the equal of a biological one in terms of cognition, general sentience; and far superior in terms of thought speed and probably intelligence. But, he forcibly reminded himself, that was a deconstructive point of view. This, taken at face value, was a living humanoid woman that deserved his respect, not his critical analysis.

<Tag Marionette>

As the party progressed, perhaps passing its peak, Andae spotted Carl among the officers again. He'd been thinking about shuffling his way over for the last few minutes. People had been leaving and it was a little more sparse, but there were still some people noticeably enjoying their drinks. He went to the bar again, ordering more drinks for himself and Malira - who was currently enjoying her 'conversation' with a Raven junior officer a little too much.

"Commodore," Blakus nodded to Carl beside him, and they exchanged greetings. "Listen," Andae said quietly, "I can look into this independently. I have some old friends in justice who might be able to force a more objective view on the matter. They'll listen to what I have to say about how some of the Cordovin deceived you."

<Tag Carl>

[Alex Watson]

As Carl left the room, telling him to finish up his business and meet him at the bar, Alex sank weak-kneed into one of the chairs around the ready room's table. All sorts of thoughts jostled in his mind, many unrepeatable in company. This was not how he had expected his career in Starfleet to progress. He had anticipated a nice long while serving as a head of department, working his way up the hierarchy of the individual ship...he hadn't ever given any thought to having a command of his own and now here he was, barely out of his officer training, in effective command of a Galaxy Class Starship.

The world seemed to spin, and he closed his eyes to try and shut out the wave of nausea that was overtaking him. It was no use, as shutting his eyes merely intensified the feeling. Suddenly, he knew what he had to do. He rose with purpose and huried towards the door, and the elevator that would take him where he needed to go.

---

Clearing his throat with a cough, Alex looked at the mirror above the toilet into which he had just vomited. He looked a complete wreck. His eyes were bloodshot, his pupils shrunk, his hair uncombed and greasy from his long hours of study, and a thick, stubbly growth covered his chin. Shaking his head to clear himself, he decided that this would not do. If he was going to take command, even for a little while, he needed to look presentable. He walked to the sink and began to run hot water...

About half an hour later, he emerged from his quarters looking much smarter. His eyes he could no nothing about for now, but the rest of him at least looked every inch the smart, presentable officer. He had shaved, showered, and put on a freshly laundered uniform. He felt more ready now, for what it was worth, and began to make his way to O'Tooles.

---

The crew's reception of the news had been predictably uneasy, and Alex was inwardly thankful that they had the happy occasion of Will's promotion to take their mind off the matter at hand. He had wished Will well quietly after the Commodore's speech, and had received the same words of encouragment in return. He now sat at a table by himself nursing a pint of London Pride Vintage and a PADD detailing the various red-tape procedures that the Raven needed to undergo while in dock. His eyes swam at the length of the list, and he eventually put it down, giving it up as a bad job and resolving to look more closely at it once he'd had more sleep.

"You look better," came a voice from across the table. Alex looked up to see Jenny. He hadn't even noticed her arrival he was so focused, or maybe so unfocused.

"Thanks. I think I just need a bit of sleep now and I'll...be..." his sentence was interrupted by a huge yawn.

"Alex...I'm worried about you. You've barely eaten or slept since we left Cordovin. You spend all night looking at that computer screen..." Alex interrupted her with a wave of his hand.

"I know. And I'm sorry. Now that we're here...I can relax a little I suppose. There's no more immediate threat of death or pursuit...and we'll have the time we need to sort this out." He looked around, scanning the room. "I hear we have an android joining us on our next voyage. Fascinating...I've always wanted to work with an AI. It should be interesting. If I weren't so damned tired I'd probably still be bouncing around my office."

Jenny actually laughed. "Save the bouncing for when we're out of this mess, Alex," se said kindly, before getting up to leave. I need to be getting back to the ship. I left an experiment running..."

Alex nodded wanly as he watched her leave. "See you back on the ship!" he called after her, and received a small wave of the hand in return. He closed his eyes fr a moment, relishing in the sudden calm that he felt. Some small part of him, for a couple of seconds at least, was able to believe that this was all a nightmare, and that when he woke up he'd be back in his bed in the academy. When he opened his eyes again, reality returned crushingly. He drained his pint, stood up and made his way slowly over to the group of senior Raven crew. He saw Andae and Carl shatting at the bar, but decided not to join them. Not yet, anyway.

"Evening everyone," he said to the rest with as much jocularity as he could muster.

<Tag All>

[Calli Valente]

Calli walked into the bar and waved at Sean ... She wasn't normally really one for socializing, but her time time on the Raven, not to mention umpteen 'sessions' with O'Tooles owner, had changed that.

"Is it going to be your usual Ma'am ?" Sean asked, the usual Irish charm working wonders, "Or will ya have what Carl over there is drinking ?"

"Listen to me you little leprechaun, Call me Calli or Commander, I'm not some octogenarian Admiral you know !" she replied, failing miserably to keep an annoyed look on her face and grinning at the barman, "Right, I think I'll start with a zombie, get me in the mood. Though I see the Commodore is on his usual cognac now."

"Yes, he is." Sean said, preparing the drink for her.

"How is he ?" she asked, looking at her Commanding Officer with concern.

"Oh you know Carl ... He'll handle this like everything else. But I sure he knows he's got his crew behind him, dat'll be a comfort."

Calli took the hideous looking concoction and threw out all the surplus stuff Sean had adorned the glass with, then headed over to a group of Raven Officers, choosing to leave the Commodore while he was in conversation.

"Have you any news Calli ?" someone asked.

"Well ......" she replied, taking a long drink from her glass, "All I know is pretty much what you guys already know. Though it's come out that El'Kamat has taken a ship without consent and left the Cordovin system."

"We knew that already. Aeryn commented.

"Yes, we did. But did you know he took the ship by force. One of the Cordovin military vessels apparently. Had crew on there sympathetic to his damn cause I suppose. Anyway, he ditched the non co-operative members on a satellite moon on the edge of the system with barely enough supplies to last them. Pure chance a trader was in the area and decided to check anomalous readings on the surface." she shrugged, taking another drink then raising her glass to Sean, who not surprisingly seemed to be watching everyone at once, "The Cordovin Council have put out an alert, though they are naturally not calling it that. But they are definitely looking for their lost ship."

"Maybe we should offer to help." Aeryn said, the sarcasm not lost on the group.

"Already offered, and rejected just as quickly according to Captain Barton." Calli said, taking the refreshed glass from Sean.

"I'm guessing you guys n gals are not going to be sitting back while Carl gets crucified are you." the bar owner said, putting a tray of drinks on the table, "This is so much crud it's beyond a joke if you ask me, which you didn't, but you got my opinion all the same ... Surely these Cordovin types can't really think the charges are going to stick do they ?"

"Unfortunately, they don't have to stick, they just need to go through the motions. Given enough impetus the Federation will have no option but to allow his extradition, and trial ... Even if their kangaroo court fails, it's entirely possible the Commodore will have stood on his last Bridge." The group was silent as Calli's words sank in ..... Deep, "Anyway, that's for tomorrow. Tonight we are celebrating Will, and the new members of the Raven. Who may face a 'trial by fire' on their first outing with us if things don't go to plan"

"That's an understatement." aeryn said, as Calli turned to the bar.

"Commodore, Commander ..." she said raising her glass, "Are you two having a private party, or are you respectfully going to be joining in this one anytime soon ?"

Carl looked at Andae and raised his eyebrows and grinned.

"I'm off duty." he laughed, "Sean, keep these glasses topped-up. We have some catching up to do." he said, getting off the bar stool and joining his crew ..........

[Marionette]

Blakus wheeled around and found himself facing the new positronic crewmember. She stood at exactly 2 meters, or 6 feet and 6.74 inches, and was very pleasing to the eyes. Odds were good that she stood chest-high to Andae's eye level.

She was very interesting to look at; statuesque, amazonian, but also doll-like, and also described as 'vulcan-like, but not'. Her white skin with golden and gray undertones/overtones sharply contrasted with her void black hair and Command red uniform. Her mirrored eyes were most interesting; they were mirrored, appearing empty, and yet also alive, seeming to be constantly on the verge of expression.

"Ensign Marionette?" he asked, "I'd heard we were having you aboard. I'm Commander Andae Blakus, chief engineer. Welcome." He smiled, raising his glass to clink a glass that was not there. Marionette had indeed had a drink, but had left her 'prop' with which to toast back with her PADD, the 2 items marking her spot at the table.

Looking downward abit at him, due to her height, she spoke. Her synthesized voice was musical, as if Marionette was always on the razors edge of singing the words out. This was because she had been constructed to use a trio of borg vocal modulators as a speech/sound synthesis module. It was pleasant to listen to her speak, and when she actually did sing, she was phenomenal. "Greetings Commander Blakus, i am the new Chief Navigation Officer." she said as she shook his hand.

"Do you drink?" he inquired. She was unsure weather he was referring to the consumption of alcohol, or the capacity to imbibe food ad drink. Without missing a beat, she concluded that he was referring to the latter, and spoke "No, i cannot."

<tag Blakus >

[Carl Torek]

The following day ...

From what he could remember, given he was drinking actual alcohol, and not the synthale normally served in the bars and restaurants throughout the star base, Carl managed to get back to his quarters around three in the morning ... Waking at eight, he took something for the pounding headache he had, then showered and dressed.

Bethan and Vanessa were waiting for him with breakfast.

"C'mon c'mon eat up, we'll be late going to the festival Daddy." said the seven year old excitedly.

"Bethan, I explained that Dad can't leave the station at the moment, you remember ? ... We'll go to the festival next time OK." Vanessa said, placating the younger girl, "Besides, now we're not going he has no excuse not to use one of the holo-suits to take us on the Taxxiax IV zero-grav rides we found in the library computer ..... Has he." she finished, grinning slyly.

Carl hated disappointing his daughters, and readily agreed to booking one of the holo-suits on the station. He was asking Vanessa to make the booking for him when his Comm badge chirped.

=^= Captain Barton to Commodore Torek =^= He could see the anxious looks on the girls faces as he replied.

=^= Torek .. Go ahead Captain =^=

=^= Sir .. I need to see you urgently .. May I come aboard and see you on the ship or would you prefer to meet in the Command Center ? =^=

=^= I'm sorry Captain but it is not convenient at the moment .. I have a prior engagem ........ =^=

=^= Commodore .. I don't think you realize the seriousness of this situation .. I must insist that you meet with me as soon as possible =^= Barton interrupted.

=^= I am fully aware of the seriousness 'Captain' and unless you are intending marching onto my ship and taking me into custody then I am sure whatever you have to say can wait a few hours =^=

There was a long pause, and Carl was certain he could hear Sato Tetsutarô speaking in the background ... Maybe something was happening that wasn't going to bode well for him. but nevertheless, he had made a promise to the two girls, and intended to keep it.

=^= Very well Commodore .. We can meet in Admiral Tetsutarô's office at fourteen hundred hours .. That should give you plenty time with your chi ...... =^=

=^= No .. No .. Sorry Captain .. I am taking my Daughters out for the day .. We should be back this evening .. You can meet me at twenty three hundred in my quarters on the Raven .. Failing that it will be tomorrow I'm afraid .. This is non-negotiable .. Torek out =^=

Carl grinned as the girls jumped up and down, both now looking forward to a day out with their Father.

"OK .... Let's go." he said ..........

~~~~~~~~~~

They had got back to the ship after ten. Both girls were exhausted from the rides, and after getting ready for bed were both asleep in minutes ... Carl had just sat down with a drink when the door chime sounded. Standing he approached the door.

"Ahh Captain. Punctual, come in, can I get you anything ?"

"No thank you Sir ... I think we should get down to the issue at hand if that is OK ... May I ?" Barton said, moving to the desk and inserting a data-chip in the side of the screen, Carl shrugged, "What you are going to see is a section of a record supplied by Madame Gastain to Admiral Tetsutarô ... Given the content, well, I shouldn't be showing you this but I have my doubts on it's authenticity ....." he finished, then activated the recording:

Evidence against C Torek, Commodore Starfleet.

> Partial audio exchange between C Torek and Councillor Travik ...

Torek: Your people are barbarians, fit for little more than manual labour.

Travik: This is outrageous. Your federation promised my people a proper place in the galactic community !

Torek: That was conditional upon your subservience. We will not admit races to the Federation who will be a burden upon us.

Travik: Unacceptable. We would go to war with you rather than accept your terms !

Transmission Ends ...

> Transcription of video feed ...



> Female: Now identified as Councillor Recik.
> Male: Now identified as Commodore Torek ... (Both confirmed)

Torek: I hope we can come to some sort of agreement, councillor. I would hate for this to end in violence.

Recik: You don’t scare me, Commodore, with your big ships and your interstellar fleet. You must negotiate with us. You know that we are too advanced for you to leave alone.

Torek: Councillor, if I may ...

Recik: I will accept full integration for our planet into the federation. We understand what that means. Our ships and our resources are at your command.

Torek: [After a long pause] ... Very well. The Federation agrees to your conditions. You will become a member. If you will stay to check your computer a little longer, the authorization will be mailed to you.

[Commodore Torek stands up and leaves the room, his briefcase still visible under the table]
Recik: Recik to Torek. I’ve received the au-

-Signal Cut-

*** DNA sweep on the bomb confirms Commodore Torek’s presence during its assembly. Fingerprints on recovered fragments of the bomb’s material match his own ***

Both men were silent as the screen blanked. Barton felt for the man sat with him. In any other circumstances, this would be enough to warrant extradition, and the death penalty. But something about the Commodore said it was a 'crock of crap' as his nephew was fond of saying. But he didn't have time to comment as a small voice suddenly broke the silence.

"Daddy ....." Both men turned to see a seven year old girl in the doorway, tears flowing freely down her cheeks. Carl got up and almost ran to his Daughter, kneeling and taking her into his arms as she clamped herself around the one thing in her life, "They won't take you away from us Daddy, they, th th, they won't will they ?" she said, sobbing heavily. Vanessa came from the bedroom and put her arms around both of them as Torek buried his head in the hair of his two children. Nothing could stop the tears as the three of them hugged together on the floor ..........

[Andae Blakus]

"Oh, that's a shame," Blakus said, and seemed to be disappointed. He didn't know if Marionette was capable of emotion, but he thought it better to show empathy rather than risk offending her.

"Have you found your way to the ship yet?" he asked, still smiling but in truth uncomfortable at craning his neck to someone who was at least six inches taller than him; she seemed large in every aspect, as if she'd been built to a slightly larger scale than most humanoids. "The Raven's a fine vessel, although as you've heard we're having a few difficulties at the moment. I'm trying not to think about what's going to happen to the CO."

<Tag Marionette if wanted?>

"Andae, I should be getting back to my friends," his 'date' Malira had spoken behind him. He turned in his bar stool to face the beautiful Cardassian.

"Very well," he said, a little more sharply than he'd desired. "It was good of you to accompany me," he forced a smile and offered her the rest of his drink. She refused so he tried to kiss her on the cheek, but she was gone, fluttering away on the breeze of the promenade's social movers.

He looked at his feet. "Oh well," he said softly, and knocked back the rest of the drink.

He'd awoke early the next day, unable to sleep for any decent length of time due to the alcohol he'd consumed last night, but also because of all that he had on his mind. There was so much to be done, so much to consider, but still he remained powerless. And then there was the matter of his darkly persistent dreams...

The CEO returned to the ship before 1300 hours, intent on catching up with paper-work before a possible next assignment. First, however he headed to the science lab, acting on an impulse. He nodded to the science staff present and approached the glassed off area where the remnants of the Cordovin drive device lay. The dark bulk of twisted metal seemed evil to him, its sharp edges glinting in the anaemic light that filtered in from the lab.

"I'd like to schedule some time to study it," he said quietly to one of the science officers.

She blinked. "It's a dead husk, sir. There's nothing left to study."

"Yes," Andae said, smiling and gesturing tentatively. "But I have a suspicion. I need to look closely at it to confirm it either way."

"A hunch, sir?"

Andae winced. "I wouldn't call it that. But we have to explore these avenues if only to close them off in our heads." He followed the science officer back into the main part of the lab. "That's science isn't it? I'd like to look it now in case something goes wrong with it later. I'm an engineer... I hate surprises."

They concluded their exchange, the science officer agreeing to let him take a closer look at the device. She would have to ask Commander Watson first, as only he and the CO - currently beached on Starbase - could authorise such a thing. Andae took a last look at the dead device, before striding out of the lab.

<Tag Watson>

"Milyanov, what the hell are you doing here? You're supposed to be on leave." Blakus was visibly irked as he entered engineering, snapping troubled glances at his unsuspecting staff. He walked to the master console, frowning deeply as he worked the liquid display.

Milyanov paused in what he was doing, realising that his Chief wasn't in the best of moods and measuring his response accordingly. "I thought the engines could do with some fine-tuning, so I came back early. Anything the matter, sir?"

"Perhaps," Andae said, clearing his mind, "We are immobile, wasting our time as JAG and the Cordovin try to throw the book at our Captain. All the while Kamat speeds on." He snorted, "Who knows, that might even be why the Cordovin are doing this."

"Yes, sir, it's possible, although I don't pretend to know much about it."

"No, neither do I," Blakus admitted to Milyanov's surprise. "Pursuing the villain of some dream I had, it's more like." Those dreams, however, remained very contemporary. He wasn't sure if this what was truly worrying him so much, because there was little he could do about it anyway. There was something else, something plaguing his mind.

[Marionette]

"Have you found your way to the ship yet?" he asked,smiling. "The Raven's a fine vessel, although as you've heard we're having a few difficulties at the moment. I'm trying not to think about what's going to happen to the CO."

Marionette's left eyebrow quirked up a fraction, puzzled by the bifurcated questions and statements that Blakus made. Never the less, she answered accordingly."Yes i have, and i also agree, it is unfortunate that Commodore Torek is being accused of crimes he did not commit."

After Malira left, Marionette and Blakus talked for 2 hours, 18 minutes, and 33 seconds, as Blakus continued drinking. The night was otherwise concluded with Marionette walking with Blakus back to the ship, at the turbolift of which they parted ways for the night.

Marionette tooled around on her synthesizer for awhile, being sure to limit the volume so as not to disturb ensigns Javier and Clayton next door. After that, she laid down on her bed, jacked into a mainline socket to recharge, and then switched off for the night.

- = - = -

In the morning, Marionette reactivated, stripped off yesterdays clothing, efficiently wiped herself down with steri-wipes, and changed into a clean and pressed uniform.

She was assigned to be the 'test end' of the overhauling of the navigation and steering systems. It consisted of hours-on-end work of tweaking the systems, and then seeing how they reacted when activated, and also interacted with other systems. Repeat, repeat, repeat, until the engineering officer in charge deemed it fixed.

Marionette did not mind it; after all, she did not get bored.

It was entertaining to see Marionette work the LCARS control consoles with what looked like chopsticks in both hands, proving her flawless dexterity. After another officer asked about the chopsticks, she iterated and then demonstrated that, since she has neither fingerprints nor body heat, the console does not recognize itself as being used when she touches it.

The lieutenant then suggested heated leather gloves. After a solid 5 minutes of consideration (a veritable eternity for an android), Marionette concluded that gloves were indeed better. After she had a solid 10 minutes to step away from her post for 'lunch time', she now wore very fetching plastic-paneled black on black leather gloves, which in context of her uniform, was very smart-looking.

[Calli Valente]

Calli had spent the first two hours of the morning in her usual way when not on duty, a run on the holo-deck, then a swim.

Once back in her quarters she dressed then ate before settling into what needed to be done ...

She used the day going through every single report, news item, and information regarding the Commodores' alleged 'assassination' of Councilwoman Recik. Including any and all information on the woman herself, but nothing she read gave her the information she desperately needed ... She contacted Admiral Tetsutarô to see if Elder Gastain had supplied him with anything concrete. But that was a dead end too. She had information, but at this point was seemingly choosing to allow snippets only to be seen.

Calli checked the chronometer ...

... 19:46:57 ...

'Hells bells' she thought, shocked that she had worked all day with zero to show for her efforts !

She decided to get off the ship for the evening, go find some quiet little bistro on the promenade to get a bite of supper ... Leaving her quarters she almost ran head-long into the JAG Officer.

"Captain." she said, about to apologize, but seeing something in the mans eye that made her think again, "You've spoken to the Commodore." she replied matter-of-factly, noticing the PADD he was trying too hard to make invisible.

"I've been to see him yes." the Captain replied, "But if you would excu ......"

"I need to see what you showed the Commodore." she said, cutting the man off mid sentence.

"I'm afraid that won't be ......" Barton began, but Calli maneuvered him to one side and spoke quietly.

"You see these ?" she said, pointing to the rank insignia on her tunic. Barton nodded but remained silent, "You know who I am Captain, and who I have worked, 'still' work for. I am sure you can understand their singular lack of relevance, given my, position within Command .... I'm not trying to pull rank or anything here Captain, I just think we should be working together so ensure Torek's safety. You are fully aware that the Cordivin's verdict can only be guilty, regardless of evidence, and once sentenced, he will have less than twenty four hours .... The Cordovin don't believe in prolonged sentences, once the verdict is announced, he'll be dead the same day !"

Barton knew all this, he also knew that the 'Commander' had worked under cover on numerous occasions and had been very successful in her assignments. She was known for getting what she wanted, and for using any means to achieve her goals. Mostly at the expense of other peoples' lives ... He glanced around, as if debating, then handed the PADD over to her ... She read in silence.

"...... And this is verified ... All of it, the voice, images, DNA ?"

"We're running every possible test." Barton confirmed, "We are even going back over thousands of communications the Commodore has sent, checking if the dialog has been lifted from there. His DNA is on fragments of the device used, the video is unaltered as far as we can determine at this point, and he 'was' in her office, we know that much because he said so in his report. We have everyone on this Commander, that I can assure you, but as yet we have pretty much nothing to say this evidence is anything but genuine."

Calli tapped a set of instructions into the PADD then handed it back.

"Thank you Captain." she said turning to leave then turned back, "Oh, I have sent the encripted information to my personal terminal, I'm trying to help the Commodore, as are we all. We're not going for who can out-do who and I'm sorry if I gave that impression Sir." She said, leaving the man and heading to the Base ...

Barton watched the young woman go ... He knew of her of course, and the role she sometimes played for Federation Security. But he couldn't help thinking that if you have an apple in your hand, and it looks like an apple, smells like an apple and tastes like an apple, then it's likely to be .......... An Apple ..........

[Andae Blakus]

"Thank you anyway, Commander," Blakus said to his office's personal console, "It was worth a try, I suppose."

"Yes it's rather hard luck, Andae. I was sure Tomkins would be a bit more cooperative, considering all I've done for him in the past." The Commander seemed reflective for a moment, shaking his head slightly. "I'll keep pulling the strings. Who knows, they may be able to get Barton to ease up a bit. Goodbye, Andae." The man leant forward and switched the screen off.

Blakus sat motionless for a while, studying the usual Federation seal that'd replaced the Commander's face. He wasn't sure he liked that last comment.

This was feeling increasingly like illegal activity, or something else suitably corrupt. Carl had - without really saying so - flatly refused the offer for help through some old contacts, but Andae had decided to pursue it anyway. So far it'd been like diving into a nest of vipers.

Hours later, he retired to his quarters. He'd finished his shift by rounding up a group of specialists, giving them orders to meet him in the science lab at 2300 hours. For now, he'd earnt himself some time off.

Blakus sipped at a glass of port and composed a message to the Commander he'd talked to earlier, thanking the officer for all his assistance but asking him to go no further in his enquiries. He made a supplemental entry in his log, recording his thoughts on the matter while also waffling about Jamison's farewell party: his longing for the Cardassian Malira, who he knew he'd never see again, and his childlike curiosity about Ensign Marionette, that gloriously-proportioned positronic officer.

He drifted to an uneasy sleep, dropping the port glass to the floor. The liquid spread and he entered the REM state besieged by images of devastation. An opaque greyness descended and an insane figure, its face red with rage, pierced the mist. It lashed out at him, features twisting mockingly over a scene of total destruction below and behind.

* * * * *

Science lab ~00:00 hrs...

Wearing protective gloves that went up to his armpits, as well as a somewhat sinister black mask complete with goggles and numerous outjutting sensor antennae, Blakus pulled out the guts of the burnt-out drive device. His hand found purchase on something loose, and he carefully extracted another blackened piece of componentry. He passed it to Specialist Ballard.

"Another fried piece of junk," Ballard muttered, placing it on the tray beside her after studying it up close with the sensor nodes of her own mask.

They were working in the darkened room in which the drive device had been kept under quarantine. Residual radiation meant they'd had to be injected with meds before being allowed anywhere near the thing, and now they were wishing they hadn't bothered. Each surveyed the wreckage with the critical eye of an engineer, and saw nothing but a destroyed husk of what used to be a fairly interesting if somewhat dangerous piece of alien technology.

Blakus passed chunk after chunk to Ballard, supposing that at some point they'd get round to analysing each piece individually, although he was losing the will. The other three worked at the opposite end of the device, scanning for residual energies.

"An interface seems impossible. There's nothing left," Specialist Fernandez said, regarding his gloves, "We can't take any chances, I suppose."

"No DNA either," Blakus replied, "If there were any prints of interest, they've been burned off." He heard Milyanov's muffled mutterings from inside the device. "We just need your quantum dating result, Lieutenant."

Milyanov sighed and checked his tricorder which to his surprise had finished the scan, "A hundred thousand years, according to this. That's consistent with what the Commodore was told. Hold on..."

The CEO scrutinised the readings as Milyanov fed them to his tricorder. A frown developed on his face but a feeling of vindication welled in the back of his mind. "Most of the componentry is a hundred thousand years old..." he murmured, "But some of it dates from a few months ago." He crouched down level with the device, the sensor filaments on his mask whirring, and regarded the spherical unit at its centre in an altogether new light.

[Alex Watson]

Alex stood in front of Andae, trying very hard not to display any of the awkwardness he felt at someone who was essentially a superior officer coming to him to ask for permission for something.

"I just want to examine it, Commander," the engineer was saying, "I realise that your team have run tests, but I'd like to see it with my own eyes. There's always a chance, however small, that a fresh observation will yield new information."

Alex nodded. "Very well, Commander. But take every precaution. I'd recommend anti-rad drugs being administered before you take down the protective shields. Also...make sure you aren't alone with it for too long. Take a couple of your men with you..." Alex didn't want to divulge the fact that he had been so sorely tempted by the power it had offered him, nor that he had come so close to accepting it. He was not entirely sure whether or not it was just himself who had said those things inside his head when he went to pick the device up on the Cordovin surface, or whether there was some enigmatic force at work that he didn't yet understand.

Leaving his enigmatic warning hanging in the air, Alex and Andae saluted each other and went on their separate ways, Andae down to the science department, and Alex to the bridge.

---

"Sir...that's your chair there," a young ensign said, gesturing to the centre chair as Alex sat down in the XO's seat. Another spasm of awkwardness leapt through him. He realised that the ensign was right, and slowly stood and walked to the Captain's seat. He felt every eye in the room on him as he sat down, and hoped that he looked a hell of a lot more confident than he felt.

"Status?" he asked the helmsman.

"Repairs and fine tuning are almost complete, sir. We should be spaceworthy again within twenty four hours."

"I see...and-"

"No word on the Commodore yet, sir...I'm sorry."

"Very well...send out a shipwide broadcast for all senior staff to meet in the Ready Room in two hours. That should give Commander Blakus plenty of time to tinker with what's left of the device."

"Yes sir."

---

As he sat at the head of the Ready Room's briefing table, Alex scanned the faces around him. Aeryn Tavik, the Marine CO; Andae Blakus, the Chief Engineer; Calli Valenti; and the newest addition to the crew, the Android Marionette. Once again he felt all eyes on him.

"This is bad," he said bluntly. "I don't know where the Cordovin's got their evidence, but it's incredible. I don't see how, without hard evidence to the contrary, we are going to swing this."

"There's always the chance that the Federation will refuse to extradite the Commodore," said Andae, "I mean...handing over a Commodore? To be executed?"

"I don't think so," said Alex. "Unfortunately, the Federation is really quite eager to have the Cordovin people's resources at the moment. They really want this alliance. One man, no matter how important, will not be allowed to jeapordise that."

Calli looked very upset at this.

"The commander is correct," answered Marionette. "I predict no greater than a nought point eight percent chance that Commodore Torek will be found Not Guilty. In the event of his being found guilty, I predict his termination has a probability of ninety nine point six percent."

"Thank you Ensign Morale," snapped Aeryn.

"My name is Marionette."

"I know, I was making a joke."

"This does not seem like the appropriate time for flippancy-"

"Ok, enough!" Alex said firmly. The room fell silent. "We need to discuss what we are going to do. That means what we're going to do right here and now on the Starbase, and what we're going to do if they sentence Commodore Torek to death."

"What are you suggesting?" Asked Calli.

"I'm not sure..." replied Alex.

<Tag All>

[Carl Torek]

The normal repairs, upgrade of systems, replenishment, servicing, day to day life of a Star ship in dock continued ... Carl had been to no less than three meetings with Admiral Tetsutarô in the next two days, but still nothing was forthcoming regarding the possible charges that may be presented, let alone any extradition details. He had spent the rest of his time 'out of uniform' as it were, to be with Bethan and Vanessa. He had sat both girls down and explained the situation he found himself in. Answering questions readily, and trying to reassure them that they could look on this as one more away mission. Reluctantly, they had accepted what he said, forcing a promise that he spend time with them in the meantime ... They had shopped on the promenade, enjoyed eating in one or two places he wouldn't normally frequent, much to the enjoyment of his Daughters, and made use of his generous holo-suite privileges ...

He had just entered his quarters. It was close to twenty three hundred, and the girls were shattered. As the door closed he told Bethan and Vanessa to go get ready for bed when the door chime activated. Approaching the door it opened. Calli and Chloe, the girls' teacher, were stood in the corridor.

"They are coming." Calli said, not waiting for an invitation into the Commodore's private quarters, Chloe tentatively followed, a mix of sadness and embarrassment on her face.

"How long ?" Carl asked, glancing toward the girls' bedroom.

"Five minutes ..... Sir, Chloe is going to take Bethan and Vanessa as we agreed, is it OK if she goes and gets them ?" Carl hesitated ... Now it was here he was a little more apprehensive than expected, worried about how his children would react, but he nodded silently and Chloe left the room, "Sir, We'll do all we can, you know that." Calli said as the door chimed once again ...... Carl tapped his Comm badge and spoke.

=^= Torek to Commander Watson =^=

=^= Watson Sir =^= Alex replied.

=^= My quarters now Commander =^= Carl said, closing the Comm before his Exec' could reply, then opened the door to see Captain Barton, accompanied by two Security Officers. Calli stepped in front of her Commanding Officer and spoke.

"Get 'THEM' the hell out of here CAPTAIN !" she said, making sure her comment was not mistaken as some sort of request, "Then walk in here as if you have popped by for a nightcap ... The children will be leaving with their teacher momentarily, and I don't want them upsetting any more than necessary."

"Give your Father a kiss goodnight girls." Chloe said from the bedroom doorway, fighting to keep the tears at bay, "We'll go have a girly night in while we're all dressed for it." she said, lightening the mood a little and happy both girls played along, hugging Torek and grabbing their bags. Then crying, followed Chloe out of the quarters ......

"You have one HELL of a nerve Barton !" Calli said, her voice raising as she stood toe to toe with the JAG Officer, "This man is a COMMODORE !"

"Calli .... Please." Carl said, trying to defuse a volatile situation.

"Commodore Torek." Barton said, ignoring the woman, "I must ask you to accompany me to Admiral Tetsutarô's office in the Command Center. There, several charges will be brought against you in connection with the destruction of a Cordovin official building, causing the deaths of twenty three personnel. Also, a specific charge. That being the cold-blooded pre-meditative 'murder' of one Councilwoman Recik ..... I'm sorry Commodore, but I need to accompany you to Command Center ... If you prefer, I could request a site to site transport ......"

The door chimed and Calli opened it to the Exec of the Raven-B.

"Sir ... I came as qui ......" he said, seeing Barton and Calli.

"Alex." Carl said, placing a hand on the young mans shoulder, "You have the ship while we're in Space-dock. If you need help Andae and Calli will be here."

"Sir !" Alex said, the smallest hint of hysteria in his voice, until he got it under control, "We'll be here Sir, we're not about to go anywhere without our Captain are we." Watson said, every inch the professional Officer.

"Transport won't be necessary Captain ... I have nothing to hide. We'll walk off the ship." Carl said, leaving his quarters without another word ... As he stepped into the dock area and entered the turbo-lift, he could see the silver white hull of the Galaxy Class vessel he had commanded for almost five years, and couldn't help but wonder if this was his last look at the ship he loved ..........

[Aeryn Tavik]

With everything going on, Aeryn was in a annoyed mood. All she could think about was how many schemers there were in the galaxy. Was this necessary? Was falsely accusing a commodore really necessary? At this point, who knew. Rendering herself to the aid of the rest of the crew and the commodore was all that mattered now. The ship was gloomy, at best. She avoided most people, other than the senior staff and her immediate subordinates. It wasn't her traditional practice either, which only led to her squad executive to approach her.

"A word, ma'am," the marine Captain asked, reluctantly.

Aeryn looked up at him annoyingly from her desk. "What," she said harshly.

The captain's eyes darted to the left for only a moment, showing his anxiety before he responded. "We've not seen you since we made it to space dock. I know you are entitled to..."

"Then what is the problem?" she interrupted quickly.

"It's just...well...you always said you wanted me to tell you if there was something wrong with the unit." She raised her eyebrow to this. "Everyone see's something is wrong."

Aeryn looked around, as if confused. "Seriously? You all don't know what is wrong. Your own ship CO is charged with everything under the sun, and you don't know what's wrong?"

"Major, I'm sor..."

"Don't apologize. Infiltration drills. I want the unit to be ready at a moments notice."

"Yes ma'am." He remained stationary, as if expecting more orders.

"Why are you still standing here, marine?!"

He rushed out the door.

Not knowing what else to do, she walked out of her unit command center and meandered about the ship. Perhaps she would go visit engineering and see if Andae had come up with anything. Yes...that was a good plan.

----------

Walking into main engineering, Aeryn moved to an unused console. She brought up general ship status reports, knowing no reason why she was actually doing it. It was just something to do...

(Tag Andae....I think she could use a good lift in spirits at Mr. Blakus' leisure.)

[Andae Blakus]

"We could always resign our commissions," Blakus said jokingly. He didn't know what that would accomplish, besides casting away their careers, but it seemed a suitably drastic action to take.

"Hmm, perhaps it will force a re-think," another of the officers around the table said; the acting CTSO, Wedlerson. "If things work out, it could prevent the Commodore from being extradited."

"Perhaps," Alex agreed. But from the frown on his face it was obvious he didn't think Andae's suggestion to be particularly wise.

"Ignore it. I wasn't serious," Andae made a sweeping motion with his hand. He hadn't expected the comment to get any response at all, let alone possible consideration. Yet it was possible that Wedlerson was on to something. "Maybe it is time to do something bold, something that will get the Admirals' attention."

Marionette seemed about to interject with something, but Andae stopped her. "I don't expect we'd have to do anything illegal. Nothing overt, anyway," he coughed, and gazed around the table, "But the point Wedlerson makes is valid. We should be prepared to do anything to stop the Captain from being extradited, and almost certainly executed," he nodded at the android, acknowledging her calculation of the odds.

"Anything, Commander?" another said.

"From my point of view, yes," Andae nodded his head emphatically. Unless by some freak occurrence he is actually guilty, he mused. And even then, he'd have a hard time not defending his Commanding Officer. If Carl Torek had decided that a Cordovin councilwoman needed to die, he would've had a very good reason for thinking so.


The rest of the day passed much the same as the last few had. They continued to await JAG's decision, terrified at what the consequences might be and not sure what they would do. Then, by evening, news came. Carl had been taken from the ship by security escort. Everyone's hearts sunk. Andae worked slowly in engineering, prodding at a console dejectedly. An awful melancholy had descended on his mind since the news, and it was lifted only barely as he saw the senior marine working at another console.

"Major Tavik, what brings you to my humble abode?" he asked, startling her and mustering a grin. "Status reports?" he said, scanning the console, "Actually I'm glad you're here. How much do you remember of our 'quest' for the blue stone?" the question was softly delivered and rather sudden.

"I've been having dreams," he said quietly, "Fragments of images that may or may not have been from the quest, and... apocalyptic things. I wonder if they're echoes of some sort, something from that drive device the stones were connected to." He was almost talking to himself, murmuring inaudibly and probably worrying the marine. He smiled bashfully, "Sorry. How are you anyway, you've seemed a little quiet lately?"

<Tag Aeryn, wherever you like in that dialogue>

---

Meanwhile, in Huasala, capital of Cordovin IV...

"This is preposterous! Most of them are convinced that their Commodore would never do this. To try and frame him is not only a waste of time, it's also a massive risk! What do you think the Federation will do when they find out we've fabricated evidence against a Starfleet officer?"

"I think you misjudge the Federation, Starfleet and their justice department," the councilman said coolly, "They're upright, with impeccable moral values. They'll judge the evidence as they see it and won't let personal feelings affect their decision."

"That won't matter if they disprove the evidence... if they discover what you've done!" The furious special ops officer turned her back to the councilman, striding sharply for the parliamentary hall's exit. The sound of her boots slapping on the paving stone echoed around the empty place, floating back to the councilman with finality.

As the officer neared the exit the large doors suddenly swung inwards, nearly catching her across the nose. The Chief Councillor stepped into the cavernous room, his easy stride belying the fury in his eyes. "This is no hoax!!" he hollered. His face was red and puffy. "The Starfleet Commodore will pay for what he has done!"

The officer looked back and saw that the councilman was smirking. "This can't be right," she looked at both men, "I heard this was subterfuge..." The words died in her throat as she recognised the situation. The Chief Councillor had no idea of the plotting going on beneath him, while the councilman knew... everything.

"No," the Chief Councillor said firmly, "You've heard the lies of the rebels, that is all. Don't you see they're trying to destabilise us? Spreading false information that discredits our government further? We've already had one corruption scandal, for Gods' sakes, let's not let them get another one over us with this nonsense. You will do as councilman Jorvin says. Tahl El-Kamat must be brought to heel for his wanton destruction of our ships. You and your superiors will find him and return him to Cordovin Prime. Commodore Carl Torek will also be removed, by alternate means if the Federation justice system doesn't find him guilty."

She gazed critically at the Chief Councillor. They're controlling you. They are your masters and you can't see it... Doubtless Jorvin's actual orders would entail nothing of the sort, except where Torek was involved. Jorvin's plans were aligned with those of El-Kamat and the two were probably working together. With the severity of the recent scandal, it was possible that they held sway over the whole bureaucracy. What their plans were, though, was beyond her ability to see.

She left the parliamentary hall and headed to the communication terminus to make a couple of calls. "Yes, I think perhaps I'd like to join you," she said quietly into the transmitter. She'd been careful to encrypt the channel but was not sure how long it would hold out.

"Very well," the confident voice replied, "Meet us at the following coordinates."

Lines of data streamed down the terminal's screen. She blinked and hit the send button again, "That's right in the middle of the destroyed council building. Are you mad?"

"Two hours, sharp," the voice said, and crackled out, the line going dead. Sighing, the special ops officer picked up her bag and left the terminus. A bald man surrounded by security personnel tracked her departure with a watchful eye.

<Tag All>

[Calli Valente]

Calli had been proverbially scratching her head for the last three hours when news that Commodore Torek had been 'requested' to accompany the JAG Officer to see Admiral Tetsutaro ... She had immediately gone to see Alex, making sure he was confident, if not exactly comfortable, with his role as caretaker of the Raven during Carl's, absence ... They were going over a few status reports when her Comm badge chirped ...

=^= Captain Barton to Commander Valenti =^=

=^= Go ahead Captain =^= she replied frowning.

=^= Could you please come to Command .. Admiral Tetsutaro would like to speak with you =^=

=^= On my way .. Valenti out =^=

"Wonder what that's all about." Alex mused, but all Calli could do was shrug as she left the ready room.

~~~~~~~~~~

Barton was waiting in the outer office when Calli arrived. Without preamble he ushered her into the Admiral. Sato was speaking to someone via the Comm and gestured for both to sit ... Once he had finished he turned to Calli.

"How is Commander Watson ?"

"Nervous Admiral. He's been thrown in at the good old deep end, but I'm sure he will be able to confidently run the ship."

"Very well ......" the Admiral said, seemingly taking time to think before speaking, "I am informing you that Commodore Torek is to be taken back to Cordovin Four to face charges. You will accompany him as his Council."

"Sir, if I may ......" Captain Barton said, beating Calli by a nano-second, "With all due respect to the Commander, she is not trained as a defense council. Her talents are shall we say, more 'covert' in their nature. Sir, I would like to request I be allowed to represent the Commodore."

"I have to agree Sir !" Calli said quickly.

"But you are here as the JAG Officer responsible for confirming or refuting the evidence presented, and to prosecute should we go to trial on Earth not Cordovin." Tetsutaro said, raising his eyebrow questioningly.

"Admiral ...." Barton said, standing as if to make his point more solid, "We both know that the so called 'evidence' has been fabricated. I am in a much better position to fight this than the Commander, with all due respect." he finished, nodding to Calli.

"Very well." the Admiral said.

"Sir ...... If I may ?" Calli said, glancing at Barton, wondering if he would back up her idea, or laugh out loud before continuing, "I would like to request that the Commodore be transported to the Cordovin home-world on the Raven .... He is innocent of all charges at this point, and I think it would send a positive message to the Cordovin, and to his crew, to allow him to travel on his own ship. There is nothing to say he must be handed over at this end ... Sir." she finished.

Tetsutaro sat in silence for long moments. He trusted his niece implicitly of course, even though her 'methods' were less than conventional at times, if not bordering on the illegal, and it was the logical thing to have a seasoned defense attorney on Torek's side for the trial .... Seemingly decided, he tapped the Comm link on his desk ...

=^= Please send the Councilwoman in =^= seconds later the door opened and the woman strode in, anger and defiance on her face, but the Admiral spoke, cutting her off mid-breath.

"Elder Gastain ... Commodore Torek is to be 'allowed' to return to Cordovin to face the charges brought against him, He wi ......"

"I would like him placed on my ship within the hour." Gastain interrupted, but Sato wasn't finished.

"...... He will be transported to Cordovin on the USS Raven-B, and will arrive in seven days time."

"I must PROTEST !" the woman shouted, almost rigid with anger, "It is unheard of that a CRIMINAL. A MURDERER, be allowed to meander his merry way to his own tri ......"

Tetsutaro had stood at the outburst, and was almost smiling at the Cordovin representative as she ranted, before she finally realizing he was waiting for her to finish, then continued.

"DO NOT misunderstand my next words Councilwoman Gastain." the Admiral said, in a voice so low she had not choice but to silence herself to hear, "We do not believe these charges, and are 'allowing' this farce for the good of the Federation Cordovin relationship. If you insist on protesting the means by which the Commodore arrives at your home-word, then I am sure the Federation President will be only too willing to review my decision ... In due course ... Given his very busy schedule, this will take some time, and require all parties travel to Earth for the review ..." he finished, the smile sitting easily on his face awaiting her reply. He didn't wait long ...

Gastain slammed her hands against his desk and almost screamed something the universal translators thankfully didn't catch, then warned the Admiral of the consequences should Torek fail to appear. With one last glare at those assembled, she stormed out of the office.

Sato took his seat and watched his orderly close the massive doors, then he looked at Calli and Barton.

"I am releasing Commodore Torek into your custody Captain, you will ensure his compliance in this matter or he will be confined to the ships Brig for the duration. I expect you to deliver him to the Cordovin council chambers by the deadline set ... Do we fully understand each other ?"

"Yes Sir." both replied in unison.

"Commander Valenti. I trust you are aware of my concerns regarding allowing Mister Watson retain Command ... Therefore, should you or the ships Second Officer feel at any time that Commander Watson is in difficulties with his position or responsibilities in this task, you or Commander Blakus will immediately take Command of the Raven, is that understood ?"

"Fully understood Admiral." Calli replied, unconsciously straightening to almost 'attention' as the man spoke.

"Get to the Raven. I will have the Commodore released and, escorted, back there ... You will depart at zero eight hundred hours tomorrow ... That will be all."

At this point both Officers stood to attention before turning to leave the office. Once outside Calli visibly relaxed ... After going through several points, Barton said he would go pack, collect all relevant information and meet her back on the Raven. Meantime she needed to speak to Alex and give him the good news. He would need to bring all the Senior Staff up to speed on the decision to take the Commodore themselves ... The fact that they could be taking their Commanding Officer to his death wasn't lost on her ..........