SBA MISSION 3.7 - Vendetta

[Deleted]

Ezdreiana walked out of the Commodore's office pleased. He had offered the full resources of Assailant to keep Baker from enacting his plan to kill people. Hopefully Admiral Loskene would still be able to meet with her, but at the moment things would be put in motion.

=^=Lily, please inform me when Admiral Long arrives at Assailant. Also inform security to tighten up security immediately =^=

=^=Understood, by the way there is a man waiting for you in your office. He's an ambassador=^=

=^=Thank you, Lily tell him that I will be down there shortly=^= Ezdreiana said surprised that Saarok hadn't taken care of that himself. At the moment she was a bit preoccupied with her problems, but she had promised herself that this wouldn't interfere with her job. The thoughts about her job made her remember the situation with the Tholians.

There were many questions regarding this new situation, but luckily for her Tedak was dealing with it at the moment. She would need to talk to him as soon as he got back. As the mayor of Assailant he needed to be informed about a present danger to the civilians on board.

As soon as she entered her offices, she noticed the new ambassador. For some reason he seemed a bit familiar, but she knew that she had never met him.

"Hello Ambassador Ezdreiana, I'm Ambassador Saul LaRoche, the new ambassador in training," the man said as he offered his hand.

"Welcome to Assailant, right now we are a bit busy, but my assistant will be able to help you," Ezdreiana said as she took his hand," once again welcome to Assailant."

As the man left, Ezdreiana began to work on getting the base ready for what was to come.

[Magellan Lin]

As Tedak and T'Val readied their shuttle the viewscreen changed to accept a visual from the Tholian vessel.

Very little of the ships interior was discernible through the gloom. A single Tholian, as usual within his pressure suit despite the obvious need for it.

...Do not try and frighten us foolish romulan... the Tholian Commander replied, ... you are obviously up to no good. I begin to suspect the peaceful nature of your intentions...

Tedak paused a moment,
"That is not our intent, I just do not see why you can order us away like this."

There was a clacking of screen that held the Tholians attention a moment,

... We are conducting peaceable science investigations you risk our readings. We ask you nicely and you insult us by trying to trick us...

"Trick you"

...Treaty of Algeron was between Romulan and Federation. No one else signed, why Tholians picked upon? I fear you exhibit prejudice. Please depart now, our experiment may cause damage and no incident we wish...

[Deleted]

Tedak frowned, the Tholian had a point. However, they were in Federation space and thereby had to abide by Federation law...didn't they? "This is Federation space, and I have permission to take my friend on a trip into this nebula. No scientific experiments of any nature were filed with Admiral Loskene or the science department. Had there been pre-knowledge we wouldn't have taken this trip."

T'Val glared at the viewscreen. "You had better let us pass Tholian," she snapped, as her hand hovered over the 'fire' button on the tactical console, "I am not in a mood for niceties or threats."

Tedak glanced at her in surprise, then snatched her hand away from the console. "Not now T'Val. We don't wish to cause an incident." He glanced back at the viewscreen. "Do we mister...I'm sorry I didn't catch your name."

...I did not give my name for you to...catch...

"At any rate, I have sent you our co-ordinates. Perhaps you could feed us a route that will be safe for your experiments and allow us to finish our own expedition?"

...Thanks for your flight plan, it seems outside our... area of experiment but perhaps best you head back. Nebula dangerous and your shuttle is small...

T'Val glared back at the Romulan diplomat-gone-mayor, then waved to get his attention. "Ambassador Ezdreiana is sending you a message," she said, "and apparently I am needed on the Galaxy. We should turn back."

"No," the Romulan replied, "I specifically arranged this trip for you, and it took me quite an effort to arrange it too. We're seeing this through. Ezdreiana's message or your new orders can wait. The admiralty knows we're on a little well-earned vacation. Plus, Doctor Mercy has specifically asked me to look after you, and I believe by arranging this trip, I am doing exactly that."

The Vulcan's eyes narrowed as she glared at her ex-husband. "Did he now?" She sat back in her seat and fixed her gaze on the forward window. "Well then, we have a nice view here, watching these treacherous Tholians go about their scheming business."

Tedak wisely said nothing, while he waited for the Tholians to respond. He was starting to believe this trip had been a bad idea.

...Foolish beings must realise we still here. It seems you disregard us, prejudice us. We have no quarrel, just trying to safeguard you. Please leave no - formal reprimands will be forwarded to your homes. I hope your superiors punish you. Now depart...

[evoran]

First officer Mel Tol walked into the Captain's ready room onboard the USS Galaxy.

"All stations report ready, sir," he said, "we are ready to depart the starbase."

"Have we received a reply from T'Val yet?" Asked Captain Voran.

"No sir."

"Hmm, well, she's not exactly essential personnel, but she'd be useful." He paused and considered for a moment. It's unlike her not to respond, I guess we could swing by the Betreka Nebula, just to make sure everything's okay. Take us out, Commander, and lay in a course to follow Tedak's flight plan."

"Yes sir." Said Tol, and exited the ready room.

[Deleted]

T'Val started as she heard the Tholians' response to her angry muttering, realising the commlink was still open. Wide-eyed, she glanced at Tedak, whose expression was grim. "I thought..." she started, then fell silent as she gazed out the window. "Surely they.."

The Romulan shook his head. "Surely you know to think before speaking by now T'Val?" he admonished her as he sat back down at the controls that powered his shuttle. "We're going home, I'll show you this another time. If we stay here any longer we'll only be endangering our lives." He'd cut communications after the Tholians' last response and he glared at his ex-wife. "You had better hope they were only making empty threats, otherwise we'll be in serious trouble. Even if they're treacherous and scheming, even if their cloaked presence is suspect. There's a Tholian envoy aboard SBA, for all we know they're part of an expedition."

T'Val remained silent, slumping back in her seat. She fought against the tears that started welling up in her eyes; she was not used to being talked to like this, to be nearly yelled at and she couldn't stand it. Not now. She sighed deeply as she gazed out the window, avoiding Tedak's scrutinizing gaze. She felt his hand on her arm and pulled away, huddling together in her seat, hugging her arms around herself in misery.

Tedak's attention was returned to flying his shuttle out of the nebula, and they'd barely exited when his sensors spotted the Galaxy. Instantly they were hailed and the Romulan answered the hail, then gazed at T'Val. "We're ready to beam her aboard," he answered the operations chief, "I'll return to SBA and report that T'Val is safely aboard."

T'Val glanced up in surprise. "No," she started, then felt herself being taken by a transporter beam. Seconds later, she found herself standing on a transporter pad aboard the Galaxy.

"Welcome aboard ma'am," the transporter chief offered, "Captain Voran is waiting for you on the bridge. You'd better hurry."

T'Val frowned, still not understanding what was going on. Then she turned and ran out of the transporterroom, leaving a stunned chief behind. "Captain!" she called as soon as she rushed onto the bridge, "are you aware that there are Tholians present in the nebula? And that they have a cloaking device?"

[evoran]

"Captain! Are you aware that there are Tholians present in the nebula? And that they have a cloaking device?"

Voran turned in his chair to see T'Val striding onto the bridge.

"The Tholians? This far in Federation space? That's highly irregular. What are they doing?" Asked Tol.

"They claim to be conducting a scientific mission." Said T'Val.

"Hmm...." Said Voran, "it sounds very suspicious, but they're not technically doing anything wrong."

He then turned around to face his tactical officer.

"Lieutenant Morley, alert the Starbase and recommend they send the Vanquisher and the Copenhagen to patrol the edge of the nebula."

"Aye sir." Said Morley.

"Helm, set a course for the colony, Warp 7." Ordered Voran.

[Deleted]

"What?" T'Val sputtered as she grabbed Voran's arm to get his attention. "They have a fully armed vessel in there, posing as a science vessel with an operational cloaking device!"

The Vulcan pointed at the main viewscreen. "My...friend is out there, risking his life," she shouted at Voran, oblivious to all crew staring at her, "where all we wanted was a quiet day out." She shook off the first officer who was trying to pull her away from the captain, but she did take a step back, glaring at Voran.

Then, just like that a sudden calm washed over her, and all trace of emotion disappeared from her features. "What colony captain?" she suddenly enquired, "and am I needed as healer?"

[evoran]

"Well, you may be, T'Val. We have had reports that this colony was attacked by the Tholians. We are going to find out if these reports are true and search for any survivors." Said Voran, "However, if you can't keep your emotions in check, perhaps you should take some time off..."

<T'Val>

"As for the situation in the Nebula, the Vanquisher and the Copenhagen can handle it until we get back."

[Deleted]

This was not the news that she wanted to hear, in fact this was possibly the worst news possible. The Thoilans were in the vacinity which meant that Starfleet would be on high alert. In fact the Vanquisher and Copenhagen had already been sent out to patrol the nebula.

She had hoped to speak to Tedak about the Baker situation, but right now that seemed unimportant. The Tholians had stayed away from Federation space, but Ezdreiana was positive that Captain Voran and Tedak would deal with.

"Ezdreiana, Mayor Tedak has arrived back on the station," Lily reported.

"Thank you Lily, can you tell Tedak that I need to speak to him," Ezdreiana said.

"Absolutely," Lily responded as Ezdreiana made an about face and headed towards Tedak's office. It didn't take her long to get to his office where she was met by Tedak's assistant.

"The mayor is not here just yet," the assistant said.

"That's okay, I will wait for him," Ezdreiana said glad that she will be able to gather her thoughts. She would tell him everything that he needed to know, but it wouldn't be easy. Most of this information was still classified.

When she heard the door open, she turned around to see a rather worn down Tedak.

"Is it that serious?" Ezdreiana asked pretty sure that it was.

<Tag Tedak>

Ezdreiana followed Tedak into his office and took a seat. She let him sit down before she started speaking.

"There is going to be an assasination attempt on the life of Admiral Long who will be visiting from Earth and on myself," Ezdreiana said rather calmly. " I have informed Admiral Loskene and Commodore Savaili about this, and I wanted you to known as well."

<Tag Tedak>

[Deleted]

"However, if you can't keep your emotions in check, perhaps you should take some time off..."

The Vulcan raised an eyebrow at the Galaxy's captain as if to challenge him. "If I am needed as healer, obviously I cannot take time off," she countered, "and I am fully capable of keeping my emotions in check, as you put it." ~am I?~ She'd noticed that lately she was suffering too many moodswings, and not even meditation was helping her. In fact, meditation only seemed to make it worse as her thoughts and desires were allowed to stray towards her fiancé. ~why did you leave me?~ she thought bitterly, feeling once more how badly she needed him.

"As for the situation in the Nebula, the Vanquisher and the Copenhagen can handle it until we get back."

"Very well," she answered, "permission to head to sickbay and prepare for...casualties?" She stood trembling now, though she hoped dearly the captain wouldn't notice. She needed to know desperately what was going on, and now wished she had indeed turned to Tsomba for help. "Also I have a request. I would prefer Nurse Tsomba as my assistant. In case something would happen to me, I need to know that someone I trust will take over as efficiently as I run my sickbay." ~I hope he bites...I am in no mood to explain why I might need assistance, as I do not even understand myself~


~~meanwhile on SBA~~

"Is it that serious?" Ezdreiana asked pretty sure that it was.

The Romulan nodded warily. "There are Tholians in the nebula, and T'Val has been called to the Galaxy. I hope dearly she'll cope and not kill the crew instead."

Ezdreiana followed Tedak into his office and took a seat. She let him sit down before she started speaking.

"There is going to be an assasination attempt on the life of Admiral Long who will be visiting from Earth and on myself," Ezdreiana said rather calmly. " I have informed Admiral Loskene and Commodore Savaili about this, and I wanted you to known as well."

Tedak blinked up at her, not even remotely recalling the name. "Admiral who?" he asked, "and certainly you'd be safe in your embassy? Of course I'll do everything I can to tighten civillian security, I could even assign you and the admiral a covert bodyguard. I have my tabs on Simeth, so I doubt any danger is coming from that corner. If there was, I would've known by now."

[evoran]

NB: I ve made a minor mod in red to the planet details to fit with what the colonists stated in the last mission - Magellan

"We're entering orbit around the planet now, Captain." Reported Harris from ops.

Voran stood up, "Onscreen."

A brown/yellow planet appeared on the screen.

Adams turned to face Morley, "Any sign of Tholian activity?"

"None, but if that Tholian ship in the Betreka Nebula had a cloaking device, there may be more..." Said Morley.

"Alright," Said Voran, "Let's stay at yellow alert. Any lifesigns from the planet?

Harris paused while he scanned, then said, "I can't tell, Captain, there's too much interference in the atmosphere, possibly due to the recent bombardment."

"Permission to lead an away team, Captain." Requested Commander Tol.

Voran paused, then decided that it was the only way to move forward. "Granted, but be careful, Commander."

At this, the Bolian got up from his seat and indicated to Morley and Harris, who followed him into the turbolift.

Voran frowned, slightly annoyed as he always was when other members of his crew lead the away missions. In the old days, he, the Captain always lead the away missions, but that wasn't how it was done anymore.

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

Inside the turbolift, he tapped his combadge, "Healer T'Val, report to transporter room one for away mission."

The three officers entered the transporter room to find T'Val and two security men already present.

"Ready?" Said Tol, climbing onto the transporter platform.

There was a general murmur of consent and Tol said, "Energize."

<T'Val/Tholians(?)>

[Deleted]

T'Val had been relieved that Adams had approved her request to temporarily assign Tsomba to the Galaxy. T'Val didn't like the woman, and didn't get along very well, but if she trusted one thing about the woman it was her keen sense of judgement. And she knew Tsomba would also tell her exactly what she thought about something, whether T'Val would appreciate it or not. And what T'Val needed now rather than someone she liked was someone she knew she could depend on.

She also noticed Yade was nowhere to be found, and concentrating briefly, she sensed that the little green had taken off to the Jefferson. T'Val now felt a sudden sense of complete abandonment; Stuart had left on an exciting mission to find Admiral Lin and now Yade had gone to join him. She stiffled a sob as she briskly walked down to the transporterroom after a summons to report there.

When she got there, she found two security men already waiting, and soon she was joined by Commander Tol. T'Val cast a suspicious glance at Tol, keeping as far away from him as she could. She found herself wondering whether Tedak had been able to brief anyone about the Tholian presence, despite Voran having alerted the Copenhagen. She could just sense their presence, or so she believed anyway. Lately, her imagination had been running wild and unconsciously she was mixing up reality with sheer imagination, no longer fully able to distinguish between the two.

The Vulcan healer trembled as though she was freezing and she pulled her long cloak tighter about her body. She was the only one present who was not dressed in Starfleet uniform, but rather wore a tight fitting dark brown jumpsuit and a deep red cloak.

Her medkit was slung diagonally over her right shoulder and rested on her left thigh. Her left hand casually rested on the top of the kit, while she held a tricorder in her right. Her long red hair was bound in a single loose braid, and her face bore an anxious expression.

"Where are we going?" she querried, annoyed that she was unable to keep her anxiousness from her voice.

[Ji' Zhan]

-- On Qualinost --

Ji’Zhan wrapped up his day early and left the counsel building. Stopping to enter the market, he noticed children playing in a nearby park. It warmed his heart to see the Debrune people no longer afraid to hide in the underground. Whole families had moved above ground and started to farm the land and were well on their way to making a decent living. Rounding the corner he stopped in a small shop that served deli style food. The food was very traditional Debruni food, almost to the point of being Vulcan in its base.

Sitting down to talk with the owner of the shop, who had become a good friend to Ji’Zhan; they began to talk.

The shop owner, who’s family had moved to Qualinost two generations ago, was of Vulcan lineage, “Ji’Zhan, how are things in the Counsel today?”

Looking at the shop owner, “Stonnek, stick with Fori and Kreila … it suits you best.”

“Just trying for conversation”, Stonnek said with a smirk.

Looking up from his food Ji’Zhan noticed two Romulans walking into the shop, “What are they doing here?”

“Huh?”, Stonnek said as he turned around to see, “Oh, those two have been here everyday this week right around this time.”

Finishing up his meal, Ji’Zhan excused himself and made his way to his office. After greeting a group of school children on a trip to the Counsel Building, he sat behind his desk and contacted Tedak.

“Computer, record a message to Tedak on SBA,” Ji’Zhan instructed his computer.

A warm and soft female voice responded, “Recording activated”.

::: Message to Tedak :::

“Tedak, its good to speak with you again, I hope your new office is prospering. However, I’m afraid that I will have to forgo the niceties and get to my point. I must ask you about Ambassador Vebn s’Khellian. I would like to know your thoughts on why he would be sending Romulan men to Qualinost dressed in uniform with gold rank insignias. If I’m not mistaken, gold represents the Tal Shiar?

My friend, I would like a meeting with you before I go talk to s’Khellian … I have always valued your opinion.

Ji’Zhan --- out”

::: End Message to Tedak :::

Sitting back he informed his Silasi leader of the two Romulans and instructed them to have them watched at all times with reports on the half hour.

<Tedak>

[Deleted]

"Admiral who?" he asked, "and certainly you'd be safe in your embassy? Of course I'll do everything I can to tighten civillian security, I could even assign you and the admiral a covert bodyguard. I have my tabs on Simeth, so I doubt any danger is coming from that corner. If there was, I would've known by now."

"No, it isn't Smieth, now that you are mayor I'm sure that his illegal activities will be seriously hampered," Ezdreiana said," and as to being safe in my embassy I don't think I will. This man was a former Starfleet Captain who's only wish is to kill the people that discovered him."

Ezdreiana was sure not to cross the line and tell him everything she knew about Baker, but hopefully he would of gotten the message.

"Tighter security will benifit us all and also I was hoping that you could accompany when the Admiral arrives," Ezdreiana asked," I know that your are busy, but I would like it to appear that everything is fine. I'm pretty sure that Baker is already here."

<Tag Tedak

[Magellan Lin]

Clouds of thick cloying dust whistled down through the valley. It made an eerie sound through the thick glass of the helmet of the EVA suits they wore.

Commander Tol was stood to the rear of the group his hand hovering over his sheathed phaser. T'Val was next to Wilkinson, a skittish looking science officer who peered intently at his tricorder almost to the exclusion of all else. Morley and Harris had formed a loose cordon about them and stood watchfully,

"So?" Tol asked Wilkinson,

"Its hard to tell. This is a demon class planet, There should be no life forms present but...Well I m not sure I m picking something up."

"Something" Morley asked, "Something what, something big, something small?"

Wilkinson looked up for barely a second to meet Morleys eye before returning to his tricorder,

"Small but numerous... the signitaure looks crystalline in nature, possibly silicon based. I would liken it to algae or lichen"

"What about bombardment?" Tol pressed,

"Oh yes, theres definete signs of bombardment, particulates and energy residues all come from over there," he pointed across the rocky plain they were own towards an out crop of rocks in front of a towering mountain, "I m picking up what looks like a hab dome, but there are possible newer structures too, its hard to tell at this distance"

TAG Voran and TVal.

____________________________________________________


Elarus sat irritably on the bridge, he longed for the time when he had been able to lead missions like on the Challenger or Stingray.. but times changed and if there was one thing all El Aurians learnt at an early age was that you had to move with them or be lost.

He noticed a young ensign frowning over the Ops console,

"Problem? " he asked

"Not sure sir. I m picking up a trail of tachyons they seem to be localised!"

Voran looked up and quickly corssed to the console.

"Where?"

The ensign outlined theresults and Voran cursed under his breath,

"A cloak... Raise shields."

As the tactical officer obeyed the space before them shimmered revealing a Tholian Battlecruiser.

"They are hailing"

"On screen"

...Greetings Federation. It pleases me to speak to you. we respectfully offer assistance. We can help you recover your people from the planet....

Tag Voran

...But why go somewhere so...hostile to you. More sense you go to nice planets. Must warn you very sensitive experiments occur here you risk ending them... please gather your kin and depart. We be most grateful for you obediance...

TAG Voran

[evoran]

"Did you get that Captain?" Asked Tol over the comm.

"Yes, Mel. I need you to investigate the bombarded area, see if you can find evidence of Tholian weapons signatures." Replied Voran.

"Aye sir." Came the reply.

He noticed a young ensign frowning over the Ops console,

"Problem? " he asked

"Not sure sir. I m picking up a trail of tachyons they seem to be localised!"

Voran looked up and quickly corssed to the console.

"Where?"

The ensign outlined theresults and Voran cursed under his breath,

"A cloak... Raise shields."

As the tactical officer obeyed the space before them shimmered revealing a Tholian Battlecruiser.

"They are hailing"

"On screen"

The unusual, crystalline figure of a Tholian appeared on the screen.

"...Greetings Federation. It pleases me to speak to you. we respectfully offer assistance. We can help you recover your people from the planet..."

"We are not trying to recover our people, we sent them down there." Said Voran.

"...But why go somewhere so...hostile to you. More sense you go to nice planets. Must warn you very sensitive experiments occur here you risk ending them... please gather your kin and depart. We be most grateful for you obediance..."

"I'm sorry, I can't do that." Said Voran, standing his ground, "We are investigating the disappearence of a colony. I would, however be curious to know what experiments you are performing on the surface?"

<Tholians>

[Magellan Lin]

The tholian chittered at a shape of screen and then turned back to face Voran,

...experiment confidential. Most secret to us. We understand your annoyance.. we give you benefit of doubt. We are friendly peacable, you have 30 minutes to remove your people from planet... we are most generous many thanks....

With that the screen winked out and the Battlecruiser moved in to a strike position but didnt power its weapons.

[evoran]

The away team was huddled around a blast crater that had obviously come from the previous bombardment.

"What's the analysis?" Asked Tol.

Harris consulted his tricorder and said, "There's no question, this blast pattern is consistent with a Tholian weapons signature."

Tol tapped his combadge, "Tol to Galaxy, Captain, we've been able to confirm that it was the Tholians who bombarded the planet."

There was a pause then, "Alright, prepare to beam back to the ship."

"Commander..." Said Harris.

"Standby, Galaxy." Said Tol, "What is it Kyle?"

"I'm detecting energy signatures just over that ridge."

Tol frowned, then climbed the ridge. The other members of the away team saw his mouth drop. He turned and said to them, "It's a hab dome! I can see Tholians inside."

Suddenly, an energy beam sliced through the air and hit Tol in the back.

"Get down!" Yelled Morley, pulling T'Val to the ground.

Harris tapped his communicator and frantically shouted, "Galaxy, we're under attack, beam us directly to sickbay!"

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

On the bridge, Voran was shocked to hear the frantic tone and the report of attack from his operations officer.

"Get them out of there!" He yelled, "I'll be in sickbay."

With that, he ran to the turbolift. Once the doors closed, he said, "Sickbay!", willing the lift to go faster.

The sickbay doors opened to reveal a terrible sight. Tol was still on the floor, blue blood escaping from a large wound in his back. T'Val and a nurse were crouched beside him, the members of the away team were still standing around him, in shock.

T'Val looked up as he entered. "I'm sorry, Captain, there was nothing I could do; the wound was too extensive."

Voran's mouth opened as a whole host of emotions seized him at once.

"Bridge to Voran, the Tholians are hailing us sir."

"On my way." Said Voran, "Senior officers to the bridge."

Harris and Morley followed him. As they rode the turbolift, Harris said, "It was the Tholians, Captain, they have a colony down there, they killed him."

"Onscreen." Ordered Voran, as they entered the bridge.

The Tholian appeared on the screen again. "Captain, you have taken your peoples from the planet. Your compliance makes us thankful."

"You killed one of our officers!" Said Voran, barely keeping the anger out of his voice.

"Our surface weapons are automatic...they are set not to take Tholian life only...you was warned to remove your peoples...this incident is unfortunate."

"That is not satisfactory!" Shouted Voran, "Why did you not warn us? Why do you have a colony down there? Why did you attack the previous colony?"

"We no longer request contact." Said the Tholian, and his image disappeared from the screen.

"Get him back!" Yelled Voran in rage.

"Sir, the Tholian vessel is cloaking, the colony isn't responding either."

"Damn it!" Shouted Voran.

He paused for a moment, then, in an angry tone he said, "Set a course back to Assailant, maximum warp."

With that, he stormed into his ready room, leaving the bridge silent.

[Deleted]

T'Val didn't appreciate being jerked down from her already crouched position. She didn't care that there were Tholians inside the dome, if they needed help, as medic she was obliged to offer it, regardless of them being a possible enemy.

She stared at Tol when he was struck in his back and was sent sprawling into the dirt. Only when one of the security officers sharply nudged her between the ribs did she come out of her initial shock and scrambled over to Tol's side. Blue blood was pouring from the injur and T'Val quickly tore strips from her cloak and pressed them down on the injury. "Hold this," she commanded the junior science officer, "and do not faint on me lieutenant! Do not dare to faint."

As the officer pressed down on the soaked cloth, T'Val pulled out her medical tricorder, just as they were taken by a transporter beam. The transport had been the drop that tipped the balance and when she finally was able to take a good scan of the Bolian (?) officer, she shook her head at the science officer. "You may let go now," she told him, then looked up at Adams who had marched into sickbay.

Rage flickered in her eyes as she rose to her feet, wiping her bloodied hands on the remains of her cloak. "There was nothing I could do," she snapped, "he was shot from behind, caught unawares and the wound was too deep." Then her voice softened. "I am sorry captain."

The rage in her eyes intensified. "I hope you will issue proper payback," she hissed, "I told you the Tholians were up to something. I told you they had cloaking devices. Now, if you will excuse me I will have Commander Tol cleaned up and put into stasis for burial. Who is his next of kin? Any of them aboard the Galaxy to be contacted so they may pay their last respects to him?"

[Deleted]

"Tighter security will benifit us all and also I was hoping that you could accompany when the Admiral arrives," Ezdreiana asked," I know that your are busy, but I would like it to appear that everything is fine. I'm pretty sure that Baker is already here."

The Romulan nodded. "Except, how will everything look fine? I can only accompany you in my capacity as mayor of this facility. I no longer hold the position of diplomat and no longer have the clearance levels you have. My movements on this station are now restricted, despite my vast knowledge of this place. If it is further protection you seek, perhaps you should meet with my successor."

Before Ezdreiana could respond Tedak held up his hand. "You are certainly safe here in my office, security will be assigned to you. Civillian security, so that they will not stand out in crowds, and I shall accompany you." Then his console beeped. "Please excuse me for a moment," he continued, while accessing the message he just received.

His expression hardened and fury flickered across his features. "On second thought, my successor's office might indeed be very unsafe for you. Ambassador Ji'Zhan wishes to meet with me. I believe you should accompany me, this may benefit you too. Vebn has been sending Romulans down to Qualinost, Tal Shiar, to be more precise."

He sent a message back that he would be departing for Qualinost straight away, and that he would be bringing Ezdreiana and two bodyguards for Ezdreiana's safety. "Come," he gestured and the two rushed out of the office.

Minutes later, Tedak's personal white shuttlecraft landed on Qualinost's surface, close to the planet's sanctuary, where the elders resided. When the hatch opened, Tedak immediately picked out the Debrune's tall frame. "I wish we could meet under better circumstances," the Romulan spoke up, "we have to stop meeting like this."

He nodded towards Ezdreiana. "Madam ambassador's life is in danger, I thought it safer to bring her as she was with me when I received your communiqué. I need to know one thing before we continue: is my son's life at risk by me meeting you? To Tal Shiar, it matters little what precautions we take to meet, they are all-knowing and all-seeing. They have spies everywhere."

(Ez/Ji'Zhan)

[Ji' Zhan]

-- On Qualinost --

Leaving his office, Ji’zhan walked down to the front of the counsel building where a rather impressive water feature had been dedicated in memory of all Debrune who gave their life dreaming of acceptance. The water spray was cool on his face as he walked by a newly placed carving of ancient Debrune writing. The wind blowing in from the valley made the spray from the water even colder on his face as he turned to head for the sanctuary. Just moments before he had received a reply from Tedak and knew this would be Tedak’s choice place to meet.

Ji’Zhan saw in the distance the familiar shape of a shuttlecraft beaming white in the sunlight as it made its approach. Waiting by the entrance he saw two figures exit the craft and head in his direction. As the two approached Ji’zhan he could see one was female.

Tedak spoke first, "I wish we could meet under better circumstances," the Romulan spoke up, "we have to stop meeting like this."

“I desire circumstances were better too my friend”, Ji’zhan responded.

Tedak nodded towards the female and said, "Madam ambassador's life is in danger, I thought it safer to bring her as she was with me when I received your communiqué. I need to know one thing before we continue: is my son's life at risk by me meeting you? To Tal Shiar, it matters little what precautions we take to meet, they know and are all seeing. They have spies everywhere."

This comment about the Tal Shiar made Ji’Zhan’s stomach churn as he despised anyone who thought they could benefit from what didn’t belong to them. He answered, “Tedak, I very seriously doubt that the Tal Shiar is all seeing here … they are out classed by my team who have them at every turn. As for your son, I would say that his life is in no more danger than it already is on the star base with the new Ambassador.”

<Tedak>

Ji’Zhan turned towards the female ambassador and smiled, “Madam, you are indeed safe here, however I feel your business is not on this planet … so I’m not sure how effective you will be here; but none the less, you are welcome here.”

<Ez>

Turning back to Tedak he asked, “I hear that T’Val is away on a mission … who is keeping D'Beren? …”

<Tedak>

“I feel he should come to the planet and stay with me for the time being … until we know the environment is safer for him”, Ji’Zhan said in a commanding tone towards Tedak but his face was trying to hide his concern.

<Tedak>

Ji’Zhan accepted Tedak’s response and motioned for the two to enter the sanctuary. “I have but one question that I wanted to ask you about Ambassador Vebn s’Khellian … Will I be able to gain any ground by dealing with him? … or should I simply effort to keep up appearances and ‘end-run’ around him?”

<Tedak>

[evoran]

The doors shut behind Voran as he entered his ready room. He walked over to his chair and fell down into it, his head in his hands, completely overcome with emotion. During his life, he had lost many friends and it was always painful, but losing them like this was the worst.

Then, he lifted his head and looked around the room; he needed something to do, something to take his mind off...everything. Finally giving up, he stood up and leaned against the window watching the stars streak past.

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

The door chime awoke Voran with a start. He was lying on the sofa in his ready room, he didn't remember falling asleep, didn't know how long he'd been asleep.

"Come." He said.

Lieutenant Harris walked in. "Sir, we've arrived at Assailant."

"Assailant?" Repeated Voran, "I must've been asleep for hours..."

"Are you okay sir? You don't look so good." Said Harris, looking concerned.

"I'll be fine. Call the Senior Starbase staff to ops; I need to speak with them."

"Aye sir."

"You have the bridge, Lieutenant."

A saddened expression fell on Harris' face, "Aye sir."

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

Voran entered ops to see the senior staff gathered there. They all looked at him expectantly.

"The Tholians destroyed Jolant's colony; we have the evidence. They also have a colony down there, they claim to be conducting experiments...and they killed my first officer."

<Senior Staff>

[Deleted]

“Tedak, I very seriously doubt that the Tal Shiar is all seeing here … they are out classed by my team who have them at every turn. As for your son, I would say that his life is in no more danger than it already is on the star base with the new Ambassador.”

"Don't underestimate the Tal Shiar," The Romulan retorted, frowning at the Debrune. "And I am keeping the new ambassador as far away from my family as possible. He was even kind enough to summon me and return something that I left in my ..former office, to me. Unopened at that. Do I trust him? No, I don't. He's too cocky."

“I hear that T’Val is away on a mission … who is keeping D'Beren? …”

This time, Tedak smiled ever so slightly. "Remember the Romulan nurse-in-training? The one that once held Loskene hostage and tortured him?" Tedak could see Ji'Zhan remembered her. "She dotes on the boy, and it's clear the boy trusts her. I have entrusted him into her safekeeping, and trust me, keep him safe she shall. She's got this unique weapon which mere touch will bring even the strongest opponent down to his knees. Loskene and T'Val both have been at the receiving end of it, and both acknowledge it is a dangerous weapon. Both also have a working replica of this weapon. No, D'Beren is safe with Rayna."

“I feel he should come to the planet and stay with me for the time being … until we know the environment is safer for him”, Ji’Zhan said in a commanding tone towards Tedak but his face was trying to hide his concern.

"Absolutely not," Tedak answered, anger audible in his voice. It riled him at how much Ji'Zhan always tried to get his son down planet, by any excuse or means. "You can't guarantee a safe environment. Assaillant can't either but I trust Rayna, and I know he's safe with her." Then his expression softened. "However I do believe he's due a visit soon. He'd like to see his Uncle Ji'Zhan again, but he'll not stay here."

Ji’Zhan accepted Tedak’s response and motioned for the two to enter the sanctuary. “I have but one question that I wanted to ask you about Ambassador Vebn s’Khellian … Will I be able to gain any ground by dealing with him? … or should I simply effort to keep up appearances and ‘end-run’ around him?”

"I don't know. I don't trust s'Khellian, and I can't predict his actions. All I know is that I can't trust him. You can try to fight words with him, which might be the more efficient route. Keeping up appearances will get you no-where. I think s'Khellian would appreciate a direct and frontal approach, rather than a beat around the bush one. If you need assistance I will gladly help you. Anything to wipe the smug smile off his face."

[Magellan Lin]

Loskene, Savali and Zoilip stood beside Voran at the master operations table and lisetend to his report.

"Was Tol killed on purpose or accidentally?" Felix asked

"What difference does it make" Voran spat back angrily, "Hes still dead"

"It makes all the difference legally" Felix replied calmly

Loskene shook his head,

"I hate to say it but we may have to tread carefully here. jolants colony wasnt a Federation one, nor did we know about it. Technically the only infringement the Tholians made in attacking it was that it was inside Federation space."

"Tactically I find it more worrying they have a cloak." Zoilip noted,

"I wish Saarok were here" loskene sighed, "He could smooth the way but as it is we are stuck, Ezedriana is here but given the threat on her life is indisposed, Zoilip I want you to see to her security."

"What about Tol and the Tholians?" Voran asked.

"Thats were you ll have to practice your best diplomacy. See Kaskrene find out what he has to say, then find out where they got cloaks from. Softly softly Mr Voran, I sense this is a most delicate matter and more lies at heart here. Dismissed"

[Deleted]

T'Val was angry now, and not just angry but really furious. Tholians had cloaking technology, lied about their presence in the sector, and now they wanted to interview the Tholian ambassador about it. "Let the new Romulan diplomat deal with Kaskrene," she scowled, "we have more pressing matters to deal with. If they have cloaking technology, how are we going to defend ourselves? How am I going to inform Tol's family about his death and why he died? I still have not received answers from you about my queries on next of kin."

She glared at Adams, her eyes displaying the fury she was experiencing even though her expression never changed. "I have his body ready for burial, and here are is the autopsy report." She slid a PADD over the table, across to Adams. "He was dead the moment that beam struck him, but I cannot identify the technology. One thing is certain, the beam that struck him was not of Tholian origin."

She sat back in her seat and indignantly folded her arms across her chest, awaiting Adam's answer. She too wished Saarok were here, or her ex-husband but as he no longer had the right to be here she settled on wishing the Vulcan diplomat was here. It was a comfort to her that Loskene was present, but she felt an aching need she couldn't explain. Emotions were soaring through her that she couldn't explain nor place. But she felt her anger towards Adams and the Tholians was justified.