SBA MISSION 3.7 - Vendetta

[Deleted]

Undisclosed Location, North American Continent, Earth, 21 years ago

They had been ushered to this location quickly and efficiently. It had been three days since the crew of the Rabin had seen each other. As soon as they had reached Earth's orbit they had been sequestered and question. Everyone understood the delicate nature of what they knew, but many of them were starting to lose patience with the beau racy. As the crew waited for instructions the two intelligence officer's began a conversation.

"Have they found him?" one asked the other.

"No, my people tell me that he was prepared for such an event," was her whispered response. " Baker won't be found if he doesn't want to."

Their conversation ceased as a stout, short Commander walked into the room. The only noise that could be hears was that of her footsteps.

"Please take a seat, we will begin shortly," the commander instructed as she activated a device. "This is device will record the happenings of this debriefing which are classified to everyone present."

It wasn't long til they heard footsteps approaching the room. As the door opened it revealed four officers. Admiral Logan Tyre, Commodore V'Tri, General Angu Sipro, and Commander Sydney Long.

"As you are all aware, Captain Baker has committed murder, treason, and broke our most fundamental law," Admiral Tyre stated as he took his seat. The intelligence officer felt uncomfortable, it wasn't everyday that one was forced to meet with Starfleet Command, Starfleet Marine Command, and Starfleet Intelligence.

"His actions are disgusting and warrant the worst punishment," general Sipro said," but it would be prudent to let his actions disappear and be forgotten."

"That is outrageous," Ensign Chambers protested," he was responsible for the murder of many people. Our citizens have the right to know what happened."

"Normally I would agree with you Ensign,"Commodore V'Tri calmly said," but in this case it would be the most logical course of action. As everyone knows the war effort against the Dominion is going very badly. News of treason from a highly respected Captain would be disastrous for morale."

"So what are you saying," one of the intelligence officer's asked.

"What we are saying Ezdreiana is that all of you should forget this ever happened," Commander Long said," the failed first contact, Baker's treason, and the murder of Starfleet officers is all classified. No one is to speak of this mission ever again."

Starbase Assailant, Present

She could remember it like it was yesterday, it had ended as fast as it had started. The crew of the Rabin were escorted one by one out of the room and shortly thereafter reassigned within the fleets. Ezdrieana had been disgusted by Starfleet's decision to keep it quiet and soon ended her tenure as an Intelligence officer.

Even though she had been sworn into secrecy, it didn't stop her from checking up on the Rabin crew. Many of them quit there commission and went into civilian life. Lac and Ezdreiana however could not let this go and so began an independent search for Baker. After three years of trying and trying they gave up and went back to there lives. It had been so long since she had thought of Baker, but it seemed that old demons don't die so easily.

"Emergency transmission, Priority code Alpha Tango One" Lily said. The break of silence startled the Trill ambassador and for a split second thought it best to ignore the message. When the screen lit up a face that she had not seen in 21 years was before her.

"Ambassador, it is very nice to see you again," Admiral Sydney Long said through the viewscreen. "I'm pretty sure that you know the reason for this call?"

"Yes, Baker has taken it upon himself to take out all the surviving members of the Rabin crew," Ezdreiana responded.

"Yes and no Ambassador," Long said," it seems that somehow Baker got his hold on the classified information on his case." It seemed that the news was just getting worse and worse.

" Baker has not only gotten to the Rabin crew, Ezdreiana," Long said," Tyre V'Tri, and Sipro were all found dead earlier this week."

"That cannot be, V'Tri and Sipro were both high ranking admirals," Ezdreiana said," they were protected."

"Well it seems not good enough," Long responded," which means that he will come after both of us next."

"Us?" Ezdreiana asked puzzled.

"Yes, my dear friend," Long said," I'm supposed to meet with Magellan and Loskene, which will be to big of an opportunity for Baker to pass up."

"Look first of all you are not my friend," Ezdreiana responded angrily," and secondly Assailant is experiencing her own problems right now. It seems the Tholians are acting up again and this part of space hasn't been quiet you know."

"I don't care," Long said his smile replaced with a grim tense voice," we will catch him here. I'm sure that he will show up."

"You may be right, but I know that Baker will stop at nothing to get rid of us," Ezdreiana said," only three people know of his actions and with the classified information in his hands, he will be able to return to Starfleet as a lost hero returning home."

"Don't tell me things I already know Ezdreiana!" Long shouted," this is the course of action that we are going to take and if you want to bring Magellan, Felix, or Loskene into the fold that is up to you. Long out!"

It took a few minutes for Ezdreiana to compose herself. Her rage was so intense that she was actually shaking, but soon her rational thinking began to take over. She would need help to stop Baker from killing her or anyone that got in his way.

[Deleted]

Tedak returned to his new office the next morning, still under the impression that he was mayor aboard Assaillant despite the result having been called into question. Until there was irrevokable proof that he wasn't mayor by right, he would continue to do the job anyway.

The Romulan knew perfectly well that Simeth wouldn't be pleased with the new regime Tedak would endorse on SBA, counterfeiting any illegal operation that may have been condoned under Simeth's rule. Reading today's schedule of appointments - one sadly was with the new Romulan diplomat - Tedak entered the office and sat down behind the large cherrywood desk.

A worried frown crossed his face as he read the latest reports. Magellan had disappeared after being announced unfit for duty by the medical team. While he and the Trill had been at odds on numerous accounts, and now with the investigation of Magellan's involvement in rigging the elections in his favour, Tedak still couldn't help but feeling concern towards the Trill's odd behaviour. The Romulan now recalled never actually having seen Magellan ill before.

He glanced up as his secretary - another feat he had to get used to - came in and handed him a notice written on plain paper. "What's this?" he querried, eyeing the paper curiously and suspiciously.

"Something JAG wanted me to give you," Nicci Rogers answered, shrugging, "I'll get you your coffee in a minute, I've got loads to archive."

Tedak smiled at her, she was being a huge help at the moment while he settled into his new job. "Thank you Nicci, there's no rush. I've got all this to read up for anyway. Perhaps we could share breakfast in an hour?"

Nicci smiled, brushing a strand of auburn jaw-length hair back behind her ear. Her smile was flirtatious if anything else. "Your call boss," she said, "thought you was never gonna invite me."

The Romulan shooed her out of his office with a grin, a grin which soon disappeared once he got back to his reading. Then he got to reading the paper notice and his eyebrows raised in surprise. A recount by hand had shown that he was the rightful winner of the elections, even though Magellan had forged some votes in his favour.

"Who would've thought Magellan would resort to something so low," he wondered sadly, "is he really so ill that his mind is messed up as well? And why would he do it anyway, knowing his usual distrust of Romulans..." He kept staring at the final election result, showing his win over Simeth. "This is going to be trouble," he mused, appreciating the two bodyguards outside his office even more.

[Felix Savali]

After receiving info that the official results of the mayoral elections have finally been confirmed, Tarli Rasmussen became the happiest man on the station. Eventough he was an old man, 70 years of age he started running through the corridors like he was 20. He had to congratulate to the person who got the upper hand on Simeth. Tarli himself was pushing and backing with Simeth for years and he had to see the man who got the better of that crooked criminal who manipulated half of the station official structures to play his hand. After reaching the deck where the mayor's office was located he burst in not even taking notice of the mayor secretary. He practically flew past the security guards who knew him so did not attempt to stop him.

When he finally entered Tedak's office he ran over to him and hugged him.

"Mr. Tedak, you have no idea how happy you have made me", the old man said and even kissed Tedak on the cheeks, "You have granted an old man something he has been dreaming about for years", Tarli said finally releasing Tedak from his grasp, "If there is anything you need, perhaps someone to disintegrate the things of the scumbag from your office, do not hesitate to ask, I'll send my cleaners to destroy it all if you want"; Tarli said

"But be as it may, I really should be going now, crime doesn't stop just because Simeth is out", Tarli said as he exited Tedak's office still leaving the Romulan shocked by what just occurred

<Tag Tedak>

[Deleted]

It had only been a few minutes since she had been contacted by Admiral Long with the dreadful news. Jonathan Baker had finally made good on his promise and the Rabin crew was now dead. Ezdreiana knew that Baker would relish the opportunity to kill her face to face, but as long as she died he would be happy. In his quest of revenge, Baker had at least killed forty eight innocent bystanders. SHe was sure that he wouldn't hesitate to do that again.

"Lily get me Admiral Lin please," Ezdreiana asked.

"Sorry, Ezdreiana, but Magellan is no longer on the base," Lily answered.

"What happened, where is he?" Ezdreiana asked confused.

"Magellan is no longer in command of the base and has gone crazy," Lily answered," he also..."

"Lily, thank you, but I don't want to hear the details," Ezdreiana said as she walked out her door. If he was not going to be able to help her, she would go to someone that could.

"Lily contact Admiral Loskene, tell him that I need to meet with him urgently," Ezdreiana said," if he says he can't meet with me, tell him that I will barge into his office regardless."

<Tag Loskene>

[evoran]

Voran had been in ops when Magellan escaped. It was certainly a distressing situation. Magellan was a good man and Voran was worried about him. But that was not up to him now, it seemed that Admiral Drew was now in charge of finding Magellan. Voran had another very serious matter on his hands.

He tapped the door chime to Saarok's office.

"Come." He heard from inside.

Voran entered as Saarok looked up at him.

"Ambassador," he said, "I'm sure I don't have to tell you we have a potentially serious situation on our hands here. We have to find out what's going on here. I think this warrants a visit to Tholia, and, of course, the Galaxy is at your disposal, but then, you're the diplomat, what's your view?"

<Saarok>

[mercy]

***Aboard the Copenhagen***

Felix turned now to doctor Mercy who was standing next to him. "How long can the admiral keep going in his current condition?", Felix asked Mercy.

Stuart thought deeply on that question, ~How long indeed…~ , before he brought himself to verbalize his thoughts. “It seems that he is being controlled by one of his many hosts. If my assertion is correct he may be able to continue like this as long as only one host is in control. His system degrades the moment his hosts are fighting for control. So, let’s hope that only one stays in control…even if it is the wrong one.”

Captain Savali gave Stuart a questionable look, but he understood. It was more important to ensure the Admiral’s life was saved no matter what damage he might be causing in the meantime.

***Aboard SBA***

They had lost the Admiral. He had proven to be quite resourceful and had been able to disable the Copenhagen from any further pursuits. The Jefferson had been dispatched to tow her back in as she had been reduced to impulse power only. Now that they had made it back to the Assailant, Stuart needed to prepare for a renewed departure. He had just gotten word that he would be boarding the Jefferson during her search for the Admiral. Admiral Drew and Guardian Laurana Regarn, who had finally made it from Trill, would be joining them as well.

To Stuart’s dismay it meant that he and T’Val were going to have to spend quite some time apart from each other. During the last few weeks there was nothing but a beautiful harmony between them, since their move into family quarters together. They had been bonding much more than Stuart would have ever anticipated, especially from T’Val’s side. He was almost a little worried for her, as their coming together had reached a whole new level that he just couldn’t explain, much less understand if it was correct from a Vulcan point of view. He wasn’t complaining, as their private time had reached these new levels as well, but he was going to spend the time away to conduct more research on Vulcan behavior, more particularly the specifics of Vulcan bonding.

[Deleted]

Tedak frowned as the other man hugged him; he didn't like to be touched and it took massive control on his part not to lash out at the enthusiastic person before him. He grinded his teeth in annoyance as he watched Tarli exit his office, then returned his attention back to his reports. Beside him Nut squawked a query, with Sev chittering a lazy response.

The Romulan laughed as he watched the exchange between the bronze and brown firelizard. "Tedious job I know," he said as he attended to them both, "but someone has to do it. And we have to be extremely careful too, Simeth will not take too kindly on the measures I'm taking to make this station safer for the civillians...and the officers around here."

Both firelizards hummed a response and again the Romulan laughed. Then his expression turned grim. "Right, I have an appointment with my dear replacement in the embassy right now. You two stay here and mind my office. Sev you're to hide if someone enters. Nut you come find me immediately." He imprinted the image of his former office in the brown's mind before leaving.

He hesitated briefly as he approached the Romulan embassy and saw Nelon smile stiffly but encouragingly at him. Tedak returned the greeting in kind, then walked in. "You wished to discuss something with me?" he querried, forgoing all pleasantries and formalities. He didn't like the new diplomat, and the diplomat didn't like him. Tedak couldn't care less.

[Deleted]

"I do not like it," T'Val said as she stalked into the CMO's office, ignoring Tsomba who was just delivering a report of some sort. She leaned forward as she planted her hands on Stuart's desk, casting a glare at the chief nurse who left immediately, knowing better than to cross the Vulcan healer. "Why do you need to go on the Jefferson? There are two perfectly capable healers assigned to that ship."

Ever since she had learned her mate was going to ship out on the ship she had served on for a while, she was acting strangely, almost jealously. "And why am I not allowed to come?" she demanded. Yet she understood someone had to stay behind and look after main sickbay, and stay behind in the event Magellan might return in time for his urgently needed treatments.

This didn't mean she had to like it. Their bond had become stronger, but T'Val had yet to bring up the official marriage bond to him. And such a bond was still much more intimate than what they shared now. From the expression on his face, T'Val could see that he didn't welcome the idea of being away from her for an unknown length of time either. But she could also see he didn't like the way she talked to him right now either.

"I am sorry," she said, lowering her voice, circling around the desk to lay her hands on his shoulder, resting her cheek on the top of his head. "I know you are needed. Magellan needs you, you are his doctor. But I know that ship and crew better than you do. I served there for several months."

Hours later the couple walked to the airlock which led to the Jefferson. T'Val had insisted on at least seeing him off. "Be careful, and return to me safely," she said as she embraced him, "you are not getting out of your promise to marry me this easily my love. And I am certainly not letting you out of our bonding, which we will discuss upon your return."

She kissed him gently, very conscious of the people around them. "Find him," she pleaded, "find him and bring him home."

[mercy]

Stuart knew that she was being unreasonable, that was why he had simply remained quite during her tirade, and gave that raised eyebrow look in return. T’Val quickly calmed down realizing how childish she must seem like and apologized for her behavior.

She was right, his departure, their separation was going to be hard-felt on both of them and D’Beren as well. Stuart thought about D’Beren for a moment. He had already said his good-bye’s to him that morning before D’Beren went off for his daycare. They were getting used to each other, and Stuart was growing quite fond of him. His fondness for T’Val was very much a different issue, their love and their bond was growing at an exponential rate.

Stuart grabbed his gear and bag that he had already prepared, while heading for the infirmary exit. He stopped to enjoy one final kiss from T’Val. “Yes, I will return safely. I wouldn’t dream of skipping out on you and our marriage. That ‘bonding’ issue however…” He let it hang in the air with a teasing smile, although he knew that it involved a mindmeld for which he was a bit apprehensive.

“I love you!” To make it easy he turned to leave and waved goodbye over his shoulder without a look. “We’ll find him, don’t you worry.” The doors swished shut behind him.

[Deleted]

"My dear captain, in some matters you are still acting as an enthusiastic youngster and a man of your experience should know better. All we have is a word from a half deranged cardassian and you would go and start a war with the Tholian Assembly.", he paused, "But that is not our job here, the Tholians have not attacked a federation station, outpost or any other federation installation. Therefore sending a ship out to Tholia would be actually a provocation on our part, and that can not be allowed.", he said

"So my dear captain, we shall arrange a meeting with the Tholian ambassador who is currently on base and we shall enquire if they know anything about a rogue outpost of possibly pirates being assaulted by their ships. Then we shall proceed from there.", Saarok said

"I will arrange a meeting for this afternoon at say 1600 hours. Meet me at the... conference room in the federation embassy at 1600 hours and we shall see what the ambassador has to say", Saarok finished

<Tag Voran>

[Deleted]

Assailant was not exactly what Vebn had expected. He had been aboard about a month and the dynamic nature of this starfleet outpost surprised him. In his diplomatic career he had been posted to several Federation outposts, planets and stations but none seemed so prone to upheaval.

The Commanding officer was apparently AWOL but information was sketchy, Ambassador Saarok had been very cagey when explaining the current situation to the foreign diplomats and Vebn had no doubt there was more to it. That left an unusual man in charge, some kind of morphic being that the federation only reffered to as Species 14872.

A small wry smile spread across his face as he noticed Tedaks eventual triumph in the election. The near riot on the station over Tedak standing was proof that the Federation despite their words of peace still distrusted and hated the Romulan people. That didnt particularly bother Vebn, he wasnt overly fond them either.

The Romulan Embassy was quiet today and if truth be told he had little real work to do. Ji'Zahn had rebuffed his attempts at gaining a better deal in the colonisation deal, not that that would stop him from trying. It was Vebns hope to undo some of the negative interactions the Debrune and the Romulans had had. Tedak had been part of that problem, his public disapproval of some of the rogue operations had actually given validity to the view that the Romulans were not to be trusted, if there own Ambassador was against his own people then why should the Debrune ever support them. Obviously Tedak was doing what he thought was best and it would be highly uncharacteristic for him to do otherwise.

It puzzled Vebn how someone like Tedak with a previously sound career in the Tal Shiar could go so soft in later life. Tedak had become nothing more than a puppet for the Federation. How did one go between such extremes. Vebn had always been a diplomat despite the mandatory years military service but still found himself befuddled by the unexpected actions of others.

One report from the Tal Shiar caught his eye. It was a brief report concerning the mix of Delta and Alpha quadrant people that had been brought aboard Assailant . He read it with interest and then leaned back pondering his next step. Rising he picked up his robe pulled it round him and tightened the belt. He told Nelon he would be gone awhile and exited the embassy. He paused briefly at a public terminal to download an address and then proceeded. Luckily his destination was closeby and it took him only a short lift ride before he arrived. He pressed the door chime and waited patiently.
At length the door opened and a man appeared,
"Yes" the man snapped looking up and down the corridor,
"Mr Jolant? I am Ambassador s'Khellian I was hoping I could have a word."

[Deleted]

On returning from visiting Jolant Vebn found Tedak sat in the lobby of the Embassy.

"Yes? Can I help you citizen?" he asked coldly,

Tedak rose and with barely disguised disgust snapped at Vebn,

"You asked me here"

Vebn shrugged at Nelon and then remembered,

"Ah yes come inside" he ushered Tedak into the main office that was now decorated austerely in light greys and dark greens, "Now where is it... ah yes."

Vebn bent to a box and extracted a small item,

"I believe this is yours, I found it in the draw. It may have sentimental value... who knows, but I thought you best have it back"

Tedak reached over and took the item.

TAG Tedak

[Deleted]

"I believe this is yours, I found it in the draw. It may have sentimental value... who knows, but I thought you best have it back"

Tedak took the object and glanced at it, wondering how it had gotten left behind. "Thank you," he answered, glancing up at the diplomat, "it indeed has personal value. It is a gift for my...ex-wife's upcoming wedding."

He couldn't fathom why he just offered that information to a person he despised. "If that was all ambassador, I have duties to return to, as I am certain have you." He offered an unfelt but pleasant smile and turned on his heels to leave. Nut winged out after him, chittering in surprise.

Now that he had the box back, Tedak felt relieved. He had thought that somehow the gift had gotten lost. It was only through Yade that he'd know about T'Val's marriage plans, as the little green loved to gossip to his brown. And it had given him ample time to purchase the gift for the new couple.

On his way back to his office, he was quite surprised to actually run into the Vulcan doctor. "T'Val, what are you doing here?" he querried, quickly hiding the box behind his back.

T'Val glanced up in surprise. "I...am not certain," she finally answered, "I could use some company. Stuart just left on a mission aboard the Jefferson, to find Admiral Lin." She looked almost stricken. "I feel trouble coming Tedak," she confided, "for both of them. I really hope they find Magellan."

Tedak drew her into an embrace, stroking her long red hair in an attempt to comfort her. Through the weak link they still shared, he sensed she was troubled, but only could sense it because she allowed him to. "It'll be all right T'Val," he assured her, "they'll find him and heal him. Trust me."

Yet through that same link, he also sensed something that greatly disturbed him and he glanced down at her in worry. "T'Val, are you all right?"

T'Val disentangled herself from the embrace and looked away. "I am...disturbed," she admitted, "I do not like it that I was not allowed to come aboard the Jefferson. I know that ship, Stuart does not. I find myself...jealous."

The Romulan mayor chuckled, but his look remained worried; something was going on and he couldn't quite place what he sensed. "That is understandable," he answered, "but you mustn't dwell on it. Didn't he promise he'd return? It is something to look forward to. We both know how we felt when we each went on a mission. Surely this is similar?"

This time, T'Val looked up at him. "You are of course correct as usual," she answered, suddenly looking all Vulcan and in perfect control, "thank you Tedak. You are a good friend as always. Do you wish to see our son?" She didn't want to be alone now.

Tedak nodded. "I will come by after my workday is over. Perhaps we can share dinner?"

"That would be acceptable," T'Val replied, "I will make certain D'Beren is home. Perhaps you would like to take care of him for a few days? I may need the time to meditate. He is always extremely glad to see you."

Seeing that T'Val could use some meditation, Tedak nodded. "That would be nice. Until this evening then." He took his leave of her and headed back to his office, while T'Val returned to sickbay.

[Felix Savali]

After Ezdreiana sent the message to Loskene, who was indisposed with organizing things that Magellan damage during his "crazy" tenure, Felix was the one who met with Ezdreiana.

=/\=Ambassador, Admiral Loskene is indisposed at this time and is unable to receive you, however Commodore Savali will see you in his office instead=/\=

Was the reply Ezdreiana received from Lily as a response to her statement about needing to see Loskene and barging into his office.

Felix was still busy with sorting out the fiasco which was created by Magellan and his trick programs in the main computer. Apparently that program created some extra forgeries in the system along with the miscalculation of the votes. He was just about finished with his second report when he heard the door chime. Without even raising his eyes from the report, he responded:

"Come in ambassador", he said

After she heard his response, Ezdreiana entered his office.

"Sit, down, make yourself comfortable", Felix said, "I will be with you in a moment", he said as he added the last few words to the report before looking up to see the newcomer

"Now what can I do fro you?", he asked

<Tag Ezdreiana>

[Deleted]

The Romulan ex-diplomat gone mayor sat behind his desk, his chin resting in his folded hands as he scrutinized the screen before him. For an hour now, he'd been debating on sending doctor Mercy a message making him aware of his worry for his fiancée. He just couldn't decide; on the one end he felt Mercy should be made aware, as he knew T'Val was perfectly capable of blocking out feelings over a bond, even a mere emotional one. On the other hand he felt that it would be a breach of T'Val's privacy.

He blinked when suddenly Sev appeared before him, his eyes whirling in the relaxed teints of blue and green. "Shoo," he told the little bronze, "I'm thinking." The bronze chirped in return and hopped aside.

"That's just the problem," he replied to Sev's query. "I can't decide. When Sev chittered in response he smiled. "Yes you're right," he replied, as he stroked the bronze's back. "Thank you little one."

He repositioned the computer screen for better viewing then began dictating his message to Stuart Mercy.


"To: Doctor Stuart Mercy
Position: Chief Medical Officer
Location: USS Jefferson (on assignment)

Dear Doctor Mercy,
You must be extremely surprised to hear from me in this fashion, however I wished to make you aware that I am extremely worried about T'Val. She has emotional mood swings that increase in intensity. I am doubtful that this all has to do with just her feelings for you, or her worry for her friend Magellan."

"Computer pause," Tedak sighed as he leaned back. He wondered how to make Mercy aware of the issue, without getting too personal. At last he decided that honesty would last longest. "Resume."

"You are of course aware of the residual bond T'Val and I share since we had our official bonding broken. Usually it is well blocked but when I am in close proximity to her, and when she allows me to, I can still sense her true feelings. And what I sensed today when she came to talk to me greatly disturbed me. She is in turmoil, but not over her feelings for you. You'll have to trust me on that. How well are you versed on Vulcan history Stuart?

And in particular Vulcan feelings? I won't claim to be an expert on them, but I feel something is going on with her. And you being away from Assaillant will make things worse. For her sake, I hope you're returning sooner rather than later. I'll try to help her if I can, but ultimately it'll be up to you."

Tedak paused again, finding himself uncapable of telling Stuart straight-out what he meant. Stuart would have to figure that out for himself.

"Please advise me if needed, I don't wish to overstep any bounds here. I understand she belongs with you, as I have known ever since she met you. Yours will be a truer bonding with her than mine ever was, I understand that now too. But she will always be dear to me, which is something you'll have to live with.

Yours sincerely,
Tedak"

The Romulan sat up straighter as he reread his message. "Close and send," he ordered, receiving Lily's sweet reply.

(Mercy)

[evoran]

"Anything else, Captain?" Asked Commander Tol as he stood in front of the desk in the Captain's Ready Room on the USS Galaxy.

"Yes, Mel, I want you to prepare the ship for departure. Saarok's set up a talk between us and the Tholian Ambassador this afternoon, but it's likely that sooner or later, we're gonna have to go and investigate Jolant's colony.

"Aye sir." Said Tol, and exited the room.

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

Voran walked into the conference room and saw Saarok seated at the meeting table.

"Ambassador." Said Voran, by way of greeting, taking the chair next to Saarok's.

"Captain." Said Saarok, simply.

"I assume Ambassador Kaskrene has not yet arrived?" Asked Voran.

<Saarok>

[Magellan Lin]

As Voran finished his sentence there was a clattering and chittering and two Tholians bustled into the room,

...We are here... We have no time... we wish you to be concise...

Voran looked at Saarok and then took a seat.

"I am Captain Elarus Voran and this I m sure you know is Ambassador Saarok"

...Yes yes. I am Kaskrene Ambassador this is aide...

"Just Aide?" Elarus asked

...yes he will take notes. Please begin my time is busy...

TAG Saarok

[mercy]

Stuart was deep in thought in his quarters aboard the Jefferson. The search for Lin was a daunting one, and the distraction he had received as a message from Tedak was not helping his thought process at all.

It just solidified his assertion that something was not quite right with T'Val. at first he thought it was just him, and his lack of knowledge of the Vulcan psyche, but now that Tedak was verbalizing the same conclusion, he was truly worried.

"Computer, record reply message."

}Recording{

"Dear Tedak,

I am glad that you have told me of your residual bond with T'Val. I too have noticed these unusual emotions and at first thought that they might be normal for a Vulcan who is deeply in love...pause recording."

Stuart thought about what he had just said. He hoped that it didn't sound like he was boasting over his relationship with T'Val as opposed to the one she had with Tedak.

"Resume recording...It is unfortunate that I am on this mission. As you have once charged me with her welfare, I now do the same in return. Please look after her and ensure that no harm comes to her. I place all of my trust in you for this. Thank you! End recording. Send message."

There was nothing else he could do at the moment. He needed to concentrate on the search for Lin, and decided that he would send a seperate message to T'Val later on in the evening.

[Deleted]

Ezdreiana was beginning to get mad. She understood that Admiral Loskene would be busy, but what she had to say was very important. She was about to say something nasty when Lily contacted her.

=/\=Ambassador, Admiral Loskene is indisposed at this time and is unable to receive you, however Commodore Savali will see you in his office instead=/\=

=^=Thank you Lily, tell the Commodore that I will be in his office shortly=^=

Ezdreiana had not spoken to the JAG officer since they talked a couple of weeks ago, but knew that he would be able to help her. She quickly arrived at his office and waited for admission.

"Come in ambassador", he said

"Sit, down, make yourself comfortable", Felix said, "I will be with you in a moment", he said as he added the last few words to the report before looking up to see the newcomer

"Now what can I do for you?", he asked

Ezdreiana looked at the commodore very carefully. She was confident that he had the clearance to know what might be coming up.

"Commodore, I have just recieved news from a former collegue, an Admiral Long," Ezdreiana started," he's coming to Assailant to bait a former enemy of mine. The man that is after him and myself will stop at nothing to accomplish his mission. I'm pretty sure that you heard of Captain Baker and the incident with the USS Rabin?"

<Tag Felix>

"Baker is suspected of fullfiling on his promise and kill on those responsible of his troubles," Ezdreiana said," only three people are left and Baker will not hesitate to take two of us out. Our biggest problem is that Baker knows who we are, but we no longer know what he looks like. That means that he can already be here and planning his attack, which means that everyone is in danger. Everyone from you to Ambassador Saarok to a lonely civilian."

<Tag Felix>

[evoran]

"Please begin my time is busy..." Said Kaskrene.

"Ambassador, my crew and I recently rescued a number of refugees who claim that their colony was attacked by Tholian forces. We were wondering if you knew anything about this matter?" Asked Voran.

<Kaskrene>

[Deleted]

When T'Val woke up she found herself staring into D'Beren's worried grey eyes. "Mommy?" the boy asked, sounding worried and scared, "why are you crying?"

Behind him stood Rayna, looking equally worried. "T'Shan called for me," she explained, "she had something to attend to and couldn't stay to watch D'Beren while you slept. And you look awful."

Anger flashed across T'Val's features. "How dare you," she scowled at her friend. "How dare you let him wake me and get so worked up simply because I was tired and took a nap."

Rayna frowned upon hearing the evident lie, but said nothing in comment on it. She motioned for the boy to retreat to his bedroom and occupy himself there with his toys. "Sit," she told her Vulcan friend as the woman had started pacing impatiently. When she didn't, Rayna reached out and yanked her down by her arm, harder than she intended.

T'Val lashed out at the Romulan woman, then winced as she hurt her hand after soundly slapping her friend on the cheek. Rayna sat stunned at the emotional reaction. But, T'Val had indeed sat down as instructed. "Something is the matter with you," Rayna started, "and I want Tsomba to look you over. You can go willingly or I can have Admiral Loskene order you to. You've been impossible to deal with ever since Doctor Mercy left with the Jefferson this morning, and you're growing more emotional by the minute."

T'Val remained silent but her eyes showed the annoyance and held back fury. Rayna was saved from a further lashing as Tedak walked into the room, unannounced. "Rayna, please leave," the Romulan mayor kindly instructed, "I will talk to you later. Go."

Rayna nodded and left, while Tedak took her place. Gently, he took T'Val's hand and forced her to look up at him. "Rayna is right," he said, "and I fear for your well-being. I'll take D'Beren home with me so that you are alone to meditate. I will talk Rayna out of her idea of a medical exam for now. But I do suggest you meditate, how long has it been since you have?"

T'Val shrugged. "I do not know," she answered truthfully, "too long." She fidgeted with the hem of her shirt like a shy child. "What am I to do?" she pleaded, "I am so lost. So confused. Why did he leave on that mission?"

"Because he had to," Tedak replied, "and he left you to take charge in his sickbay. He's counting on you to do it, but he's very worried about you. He's now charged me to look after you and I intend to keep that promise. And right now, I want you to meditate. We'll talk again in the morning, before you go on duty. I'll take our son with me, but you must promise me you'll meditate."

T'Val nodded. "I promise," she answered, knowing she would indeed. Minutes later, after the Romulan had left with their son, T'Val changed into something more comfortable and sat herself crosslegged on the floor, her hands folded serenely in her lap while she closed her eyes and let her mind wander. Surprisingly, she was conscious of Stuart's mind being present in her own, like a distant echo. She recognized it as the emotional bond they shared and she clung to it in desperation. ~Stuart~ her mind cried, demanding his attention.

She knew she needed to focus, and ignore her needs. She needed to understand what was happening, and without a clear mind she'd never accomplish that. She blocked the part of her mind which held her bond, and focused instead on the point of calm within her mind.

[Magellan Lin]

Kaskrene chattered harshly at Vorans words anf turned to his companion. The two seemed to be communicate on some unknown level before Kaskrene turned back to Saarok and Elarus.

...No nonsense that is... he paused and then as if choosing his words carefully continued ... we respect friendly Federation friends we would never intentionally destroy friendly federation friends nests. We are friends...

TAG Saarok

Kaskrene chittered again and repeated himself,
... we respect friendly Federation friends we would never intentionally destroy friendly federation friends nests. We are friends...

"Then you wouldnt mind us checking this out" Voran suggested

This prompted even greater activity from Kaskrene and his companion,

... you not trust my word. that wounds my friendliness. It puts barrier between our peoples...

"Thats not our intention" Saarok answered smoothly "We are just concerned for the loss of a colony"

Kaskrene just clacked his forelimbs together.

...meeting over. Time is busy you have my words...

Together with his companion they skittered out.

[Deleted]

The next morning, Tedak decided that T'Val needed a change of scenery. Leaving D'Beren in Rayna's care, he called the hangarbay to prep his personal shuttle, then headed for his ex' quarters. He knocked several times and after gaining no answer he overrode her lock and entered her quarters.

To his surprise, he found her lying on the floor in the livingroom, obviously fast asleep. He walked up to her and carefully knelt beside her, then shook her gently. "Wake up sunshine," he called, shaking her a little harder.

T'Val grunted and swatted her hand, mumbling someting that sounded like 'go away'. She rolled over and curled up, shivering slightly.

The Romulan shook her again, this time even harder then finally resorted to slapping her cheek. This caused her to shap her eyes open and lash out at him hard. Startled, Tedak rubbed his jaw as he lay sprawled on his back. "At least you're awake now," he grimaced, "are you all right?"

T'Val glared at him for a full minute, then held out her hand to help him up. "I must apologize," she murmured, "you startled me. I am...fine. What are you doing here?"

Tedak smiled, though somewhat sourly as he still rubbed his sore jaw. "I came to take you on a trip. You need to take a day to yourself, as obviously something is troubling you. There's a small nebula not far from here that I'd like to show you."

The Vulcan healer stared at her ex-husband. "Did Stuart put you up to this?" she demanded.

"Not really, though he did ask me to look after you. He's really worried about you, you know. You've really been behaving oddly lately, and everyone's noticing. I heard that even Admiral Loskene is rather worried, and I wouldn't be surprise if he would order you to take this trip with me."

She sighed in response. "I suppose I would have to take you up on your offer then." She motioned towards the door. "The sooner we go, the sooner we are back. I have a lot to do."

Tedak smiled and led the way. Several minutes later, they were on course for the nebula.

[Magellan Lin]

The swirling gases of the nebula began to envelop Tedaks shuttle. It intrigued Tedak how different the Betreka Nebula seemed each time he visited it. Usually a deep purple there were patches of vibrant red and electric blue. It was to one of these patches he hoped to take T'Val. Many might assume taking a Vulcan to see something so aesthetic was pointless, in which case they didnt know T'Val. Her Vulcan side seemed less strong as when they had met, Tedak mused that may have accounted for the way in which they had drifted apart, though he also suspected the revelation of residual Debrune DNA had something to do with it.

The shuttle clicked off auto pilot as it entered the nebula proper. Such a feature was far too dangerous to be left to the computer. Again Tedak marvelled at a place in which a sentient gaseous creature lived, that held a terminal to a sub-space corridor existed and held how many other secrets.

"Where are we going?" T'Val asked emerging from the small chamber at the rear of the cockpit, she placed a mug on the flight top.
"Thanks" Tedak smiled, "And its a surprise"
T'Val shrugged and took a seat in the co-pilot chair tucking her legs up and taking a sip from her own drink.


TAG Tedak/TVal for banter


The shuttle rocked slightly as they entered a pressure differential and Tedak realigned the sensors to detect any future pockets and frowned,

"Something wrong?" T Val asked

"I m not sure. I m detecting comms chatter. Weak but close by. Its only just within our detection range."

"A distress call?"

"No. Well nothing I ve ever seen as a distress call. It looks like the sort of comms traffic for every day use."

"Wheres it coming from?"

"I m not sure. I m detecting a number of rogue planets and planetoids within range but the signal is too diffuse to triangulate a location. Hang on I m detecting..." Tedak broke off and span quickly in his seat to a second console,

"A what?"

"It looks like a cloaked ship. Its a leakage of ion emissions, usually a trademark of a misaligned cloak."

"Could it be natural?" T'Val suggested,

"I don't think so its heading straight for us."

T'Val sat upright and twisted round to sit at the co-pilot station properly,

"Raise shield?"

Tedak nodded and his hand slipped to release weapons control and fired up the impulse engines.

"We may not need it." He noted, "The signature is of Romulan design."

T'Val didnt seem reassured, Romulans were hardly the greatest news especially since Tedak had been deposed as Romulan Ambassador.

"They are decloaking dead ahead" Tedak noted, "Open a channel when they do"

They starred at the viewscreen as the space before them as it flickered like ripples in a pool. Slowly a shape came into view except instead of the hawk like shape of a Warbird the wedge shape of a Tholian Battlecruiser materialised.

A hiss of static filled the small cabin and it was a moment before Tedak recovered from the shock to hit the accept button on the comm panel.

=^=...this is the Aevalar. Peaceful science ship we conduct delicate readings you risk disruption. respectfully suggest you leave...=^=

TAG Tedak and T'Val

[Deleted]

=^=...this is the Aevalar. Peaceful science ship we conduct delicate readings you risk disruption. respectfully suggest you leave...=^=

Romulan and Vulcan shared a surprised glance upon hearing this message. "Peaceful science?" T'Val echoed, "since when do Tholians have science vessels?"

Tedak shrugged as he returned his attention to the tactical console. "For a science vessel they are also superbly armed. I just wonder where they got the cloaking device, and why they're cloaked in the first place." He glanced up again at T'Val, who looked distinctly uncomfortable and did a bad job at trying to hide it.

"Surely Magellan would've allowed any science party to study this nebula? I know of Klingon scientists who came demanding to study it." He chuckled at the memory. "Klingons never ask, they always demand. Anyway, even so if their readings are delicate they should've posted warning posts at the edge of the nebula."

"So you have no intention of leaving?" T'Val querried, as she picked up her mug again to warm her hands.

"None whatsoever," he answered, as he keyed in new co-ordinates. "We came here because I wanted to show you something, to get your mind of your most recent troubles, and that's exactly what I'm going to do."

Tedak motioned towards the communications console. "Please restore sound so we can reply." At her nod, he gazed at their own little viewscreen. "Tholian vessel, this is Mayor Tedak. We are not leaving this nebula. I am transmitting the co-ordinates of our heading. We won't stay too long. Please respond." He keyed in several instructions upon which his heading was transmitted to the Tholian vessel.

"However," he added, "I do have a question. You are in possession of a cloaking device. According to the treaty of Algeron, usage of cloaking devices by non-Romulan and non-Klingon species is forbidden. You are therefor in violation of this treaty. I strongly urge you not to use this device again."

The Romulan glanced at his Vulcan companion. "Let's hope they understand," he added, as worry flashed across his features, "my shuttle has a working cloaking device, and is properly armed, but still no match for a Tholian vessel."