SB Assailant Mission 4.1 - To have and to hold...

[Magellan Lin]

This short story/series of posts starts to set the scene for the general backdrop for Starbase Assailant and the First Fleet for 2393

Bathed in the stygian blood red glow of the bridge of the IKS Heg'vak General Ch'lork grasped the hilt of his dk'tahg firmly. The well worn spiked handled was reassuring to the touch, its short nodules testing the elasticity of the equally well worn skin. A present from his father it had been well used in the intervening years and always helped Ch'lork to focus.

The bridge of the Vorcha class Heg'vak was like most of its class, simple, functional and deadly. Five bekks and Lorl his second officer sat at the various stations either side of him a smug expression of contented satisfaction on their faces.
For six months they had been tasked with hunting down the rogue House of Krork who had been outlawed by the High Council. Months of patrolling had revealed nothing and when they had come close to catching up to Krork who had stolen a Federation vessel they had been beaten to the punch by Starfleet. It could hardly have been considered work for a warrior of Ch'lorks renown, a hero of the Battle for Chintoka. He like many in the KDF longed for the old days when the adversarys they faced like the Jem'hadar had been worthy opponents, he almost wished a return to the shortlived war with the Federation, they may be weak, but the sure fought well when pushed against a wall. But now the Heg'vak had been joined by a pair of Birds of prey and tasked with a mission that promised much glory and surely confirm his place in Sto-vo-kor.

"We are approaching Klacma" Bekk Clor reported .

Ch'lork released his grasp on his weapon and rose, the creak of the leather of his battle dress music to his ears.

"On screen"

He gazed at the pitiful planet that appeared on the viewscreen before him and shook his head in bewilderment.
If Grethor had a location in real space then Klacma was it. The single planet that orbited the double star was as inhospitable as you could imagine.
A dense thick lung clogging atmosphere fed swirling clouds of sulphurous fogs that swept around the bases of vast volcanoes spewing larva day and night pooling in to huge chasms.
Not a single higher lifeform, plant or animal had ever evolved on its boiling surface where the searing winds could strip all flesh from a bone in seconds. Klacma was not only inhospitable but entirely useless. Devoid of any minerals of note one could be forgiven for thinking that no one would ever fight over this insignifcant part of the great Klingon Empire but they would be wrong.

"Scan the surface for evidence of them" Ch'lork commanded eager to find and educate the squatters.

"I have located their colony. Its one the northern hemisphere approximately 70 kellicams in diameters."

"Open Hailing Frequencies" Ch'lork ordered, as he drew himself to his full 6ft4 and tried to look even more imposing, "This is General Ch'lork of the Klingon Defence Force. In settling on this planet you submit to Klingon law and rule. As such you must turn over all your data and technologies otherwise you will be forcibly removed and placed in custody"
He paused whilst he waited for them to respond, at least he had delivered Intelligences request not that he expected the colonists to respond positively.
Suddenly an insectile shape appeared on the screen. Obviously agitated the Tholian clacked loudly in its own harsh language before the translator caught up,

"We mean you no harm, this planet is of no use to you. We wish only to live peacefully"

"Bah" Ch'lork grunted, "Submit or die. This is our space you live by our rules."

"We will not...we have means to defend ourselves but their are young here...let them leave. Attacking us is an act of war..."

"Wrong, secretly settling in Klingon space is an act of war. And we do not forget your attacks on our colonies like Taelus II"

"But that was over 100 years ago...."

"Enough" he slamed of the comm and signalled to his bekk,

"Is there a pressure dome around their colony?" he asked

The bekk shook his head.

"Grrrrrr" Ch'lork growled in frustration, he had hoped to engage in glorious hand to hand combat with the Tholians, "Very well have Captain Karn and his wingmate sweep the outer perimeter and bring us into alignment for orbital bombardment.

The IKS Heg'vak entered orbit and began to pelt the surface with disruptor blasts. The green energy sizzled in the thick atmosphere and Tolak smiled as he thought of the devestation wrought on its surface. Safe under cloak in his observation craft he watched in glee as the Klingons eradicated all signs of the Tholians from their planet. His interest rose as he noted the arrival of a Tholian Battlecruiser entering the system using one of the cloaks his government had sold them.
Quickly he placed his recordings in a data burst and sent a copy to the embassy on Starbase Assailant and one to his masters on Romulus. The first shots in the Colonial War had been fired.

more to follow...

[Magellan Lin]

Operations was quiet almost deathly so. F'rass was sat at the Control Station, Zoilip at Tactical and Ensign Ch'zhan at the science console. Magellan paused on the top step of the short flight of three that led to his office. It felt good to be back aboard and whole once again. All potential charges had been quashed and a great deal of the benefit of the doubt given. If the Jefferson had so well documented his capture and healing he doubted command would have been so willing. It still made him shudder to think how helpless he had felt when his other hosts had been in control.

Anyone observing from outside may have noted the lack of humans on duty, for them this was Christmas Eve, a key festival day for one of their religions. Magellan had given all the human staff the option of the day off in order to celebrate it. He himself, althought invited, wasn't in the celebrating mood.

"Incoming transmission from Starbas 47...Admirals eyes only" F'rass reported with his usual hissing drawl.

"Put it through" Magellan ordered as he retreated into his office.
He went to his desk and activated his terminal, "Okay Lily patch it through"
The sentient computer system decoded and decrypted the message and opened up an image on the screen.

"Admiral Nova" Magellan greeted as he recognised the features of the Section Admiral, "I thought you would be off duty"

=^=I would be but something came up. I m due at home any moment.=^= He paused as if weighing up the man before him =^=How are you Magellan?=^=

"Getting there sir. I must apologise for disabling the Copenhagen and stealing the Hanson"

=^=Well that wasnt exactly you was it now...as long as your all better.=^=

"I m sure if I wasnt Dr Mercy would have informed you"

Duke chuckled,
=^=True=^=

"So whats come up, I trust its bad news."

=^=Of course, it seems thats the only news I give out these days. Its the Tholian incident. Command is very disturbed by their covert colonising project. The Federation Council is still in talks with the Tholians about it, I m sure Saarok can tell you more on that though. I m here to give you express orders from Command. Starfleet doesn't want this to turn into a shooting war. As it is we're getting reports that the Klingons are not responding well. Our diplomats are trying to calm them down and provide a united front to the Tholians but the President has expressly forbidden any response by us that may lead to a war with Tholia.=^=

"I see. Is the President aware of our alliance with the Klingons or that Section 47 is slap bang between the Tholians and the Klingons."

=^=Well aware, but what can he do. Continue all diplomatic efforts, protect our people and well... do your best=^=

"Understood Sir, what about teh Tholian colonies we have currently located in our space?"

=^=They are to be treated as Tholian territory - for the time being. Do what you can to find out what they are up to...to that ends I m sending you a new Fleet Intelligence Officer. She ll be with you in a few days.=^=

"Understood."

=^=As it is I ll see you in a week or so for the Wedding, should be quite a party.=^=

"Oh yes I m already having the Chapel reinforced"

=^=Very well. Good luck Admiral.=^=

"And you Sir. And Merry Christmas. Assailant out"

Magellan leaned back and sighed deeply, there was a human phrase that leapt to mind - out of the fire and into the frying pan. From dealing with the Debrune and the Romulans to the Tholians and Klingons... he wasn't sure which was better.

more to follow...maybe LOL

[dodger]

Beep beep beep.. Their shuttle had been targeted yet again. The Vulcan pilot did not flinch as they continued on their heading, racing at top speed towards the outer circle of the defence mines. The miniature ship had already taken several shots: anymore and they would have little chance of making it back to the Achilles alive. The rest of the crew were silent, all human, and all harrowing their emotions and leaving Talvek to his work. The scarred shuttle juddered and with a communal sigh of relief they saw the last shot whiz past them through the viewing window. It had missed.

The only female of the crewmembers leapt out of her seat. “Hail the Achilles. Tell them to leave as soon as we get through the doors.” She directed the Vulcan. Talvek nodded silently, and still manoeuvring the ship at top speed opened a hailing frequency.

=^=Dodged again I see.=^= Said a smiling human face appearing on the console. The woman gave a coy smile.

=^=Very witty, my dear brother.=^= She answered. =^=But only just. We need to get outta here asap.=^= she informed him, cutting the chase.

=^=We are well aware of the situation. We were ready to leave an hour ago, but someone suggested I waited for stragglers.=^= He mimicked her sarcastic smile. The communication ended abruptly as the hulk of the Prometheus Class vessel filled the viewscreen. With intent concentration Talvek directed the shuttle towards the docking bay at the greatest possible speed, setting it down with complete accuracy within the bay. As her brother had promised, he wasted no time, and the Achilles had jumped into warp before they had even stepped foot on the deck.

“Miss me?” Dodger asked heartily as she swept out of the turbolift and gave her brother a huge grin.

He cocked his head to the side. “Naturally.” He mused. Talvek, the Vulcan pilot, and the two other members of the shuttle team had followed her, and now proceeded to enter the briefing room along with the Captain. Noticing her brother’s eye looking her over closely, Dodger thought it might have been a good idea if she had changed first. She was drenched in sweat from her forehead down, and her fringe stuck to her face beside her eyes. Tholians liked it hot. The salt mingled with blood on her face, which was cut slightly above the eyebrow. She probably didn’t look too healthy.

“Let’s have it then.” The Captain said, making himself comfortable at the head of the table. Dodger slouched in her chair, her body realising its own exhaustion at last.

“I thought the shooting and running would have given it away…” She teased. He rolled his eyes.

“Thank you, I figured out it didn’t go so well. The Tholian’s ceased all communications with us at least thirty minutes before you made it out.”

“They weren’t willing to negotiate, if that’s what you mean. Did Ambassador Kish make it out alive?” She added, suddenly thinking back.

“Yes, he made it back before the defence grid fired up, but it was a close call…” He trailed off, somewhat giving the impression that the Ambassadors survival was a personal disappointment.

“Yes well, we knew before we started that he’s as about as diplomatic as a polar bear...” Dodger pointed out. Tuvok looked mildly confused at this comment, but remained systematically silent. The meeting lasted only a few minutes longer, from where the Vulcan took over to give his more accurate account of the meeting planetside. When they were excused, Dodger headed straight for her quarters and jumped in the shower, thankful that they were now well on their way to Starbase Assailent. Wrapped in three towels she dropped onto the end of the bed with a sigh.

Well, that went well…as usual.

Dodger closed her eyes. Sometimes if she tried enough she could pretend it wasn’t happening. Sometimes she could pretend the voices inside her head weren’t really there. She could definitely put it down to exhaustion. This time.

Oh, now, don’t be like that. The voice scolded, You might hurt my feelings. Damn him for being inside her head. He had even learnt sarcasm.

“Go away Ripper.” She spat through gritted teeth. Subconsciously she scanned the room for him. He usually took some corporeal form or other. It was easier to relate to him that way. Not that she wanted to be relating all that much. She was still getting used to the idea of having the Lethean living inside her head, let alone being able to speak with a walking, talking manifestation of the creature that had nearly killed her.

He was there, in the corner, leaning back casually on her desk, slowly removing his black leather gloves. A Lethean form today, that was not unusual. He only took on another corporeal shape when he really wanted to annoy her. You should have let the ambassador die you know. He’s so much more trouble than he’s worth… He advised.

“Thank you.” Dodger replied, silently cursing herself for taking up conversation with ‘him’. “When I require your opinion I shall ask for it. Anyway, it wasn’t Kish’s fault the Tholians were being jugheads. I don’t think they ever intended to listen to our terms.”

So what happens now? He enquired.

“We let them cool off, so to speak, and keep an eye on their activities, especially within Federation territory.” She told him, “We didn’t think they would take too kindly to our diplomatic interference, but we didn’t expect such open hostility.”

Ah well, never liked the Tholians anyway…[/i]Ripper said thoughtfully. Ugly clicking buggy things. Dodger couldn’t help but smile, looking at the Lethean form in front of her with his crackly, scaly skin. ‘Who was he to insult anyone?’ she thought, before realising he could probably hear every word that was drifting through her mind.[/color]

[Felix Savali]

=/\=Private Vessel Koriban to Starbase Assaillant control=/\=

=/\=Assaillant control here, go ahead=/\=

=/\=Requesting permission to dock=/\=

=/\=Permission granted, Private Vessel Koriban, you may dock in the main docking bay, Assaillant control out=/\=

After finishing up the friendly chat, the newcomer diverted his shuttle towards the main docking bay and moments after the Assailant’s flight computer took over his control and guided the vessel into the docking bay. Several moments after docking, the hatch on the vessel slowly opened to reveal a man who appeared to be in his twenties, he had brown hair of medium length. He was dressed in dark green slacks and a raised collar shirt wit a silver buckled belt. But the attire that dominated his person was a long blue trenchcoat with a very wide bottom which allows it to waver in the wind. In his right hand was a silver briefcase made of an unknown metal alloy.

As he stepped out of the ship he smiled before proceeding towards the port authority officer who was sitting at his desk near the exit of the docking bay. After showing him his identification the man nodded and our mystery visitor was granted access to the base. Anyone who looked at this man could see determination radiating from him. As he walked through the base people would literally jump out of his way but he took no notice of this, he knew what he wanted, where he was going and how was he going to accomplish it.

After reaching the turbolift he got inside and ordered it to the deck where he knew he would find the person he needed, and once he did... He would be a step closer to accomplishing his goal. After the turbolift arrived to the correct deck, our new guest stepped of it and headed in the direction that would lead him to the destination which was known only to him. After he reached his goal, he pressed the key next to the door after which the door slid open and he entered.

"I am here to visit Mr. Simeth, would you please grant us some privacy", the guest said to the two guards in the brig

"Who are you, how did you get in here...", the guards started but the newcomer had none of that while they were speaking he pulled out an identification card which he inserted into the computer after which the two guards simply nodded and left the room

"Drolem Simeth", the newcomer called out as he went towards his cell while at the same time releasing the fore field

"Who are you, what do you want?", Simeth questioned

"I am here to give you a business proposition", the man said, "You come work for me and I...", he said as he set his briefcase on the floor and opened it, he extracted from it a sphere shaped item with a diameter of some 15 centimeters. He handed it to Simeth before continuing to speak

"This will be you regular pay that you shall receive each month and if you serve me well there will be bonuses included.", the guest said

"Is this...", Simeth started

"Yes, it is pure latinum, the very thing that makes bars of gold pressed latinum so valuable. And the amount in that cylinder equals the value of 750 000 bars of gold pressed latinum.", the guest said, "With it of course comes the get out of jail card and a guarantee that while you are my employee, you will not have any problems at all with the forces of law and order.", the guest said taking the cylinder from Simeth's arms

"If you wish to do businesses with me... leave a message for me at the 5 star hotel on the civilian level of the base. And you will revive this what i have just shown you and much, much, much more", the guest said as he closed his suitcase and slowly started to walk out of the brig while reactivating the forcefield on his way out

"Remember Simeth, if you want to come work for me, you know where to find me", the man said before leaving the brig and departing in an unknown direction...

<Tag Simeth>

[Deleted]

Now that the issue involving Ambassador Ezdreiana was resolved, Tedak had more time on his hands to actually devote to his work as mayor of the starbase. After all he was the person to represent the base civillian population, and the stacks of reports didn't distribute among the people by themselves. That and there was still a tremendous backlog from Simeth's reign to dissolve. Including the downsizing of the criminals living on SBA, and so far, he was doing a reasonably fair job at it.

Yet it still gnawed at him the way he was booted from his previous profession, and he still couldn't believe the Empire could just do that without giving him proper and prior warning, not to mention good reason. Certainly, he leaned towards the Debrune way of dealing with things as well as the Federation but that didn't mean he didn't have the Empire's benefits at heart. That and there were many who had opposed his marriage to a Vulcan and the adoption of a Debrune child.

Tedak gazed at the three-year old playing in the corner of his office, his two firelizards keeping watch over him. The boy was everything to him, and ever since his divorce from T'Val, the boy was everything he had to fight for. And thus fight for a safer environment for him to grow up with.

Shaking his head in dismay he returned his attention to the report he had been reading. T'Val had informed him about the Tholian presence within the nebula the Galaxy had just visited, and soon after that he'd been given a similar report Voran had submitted to Starflet command. What he wondered was why he'd been given this particular report, since he didn't represent the Romulan Government anymore. People who'd come to him back when he was a diplomat still came to him for advise, despite him politely referring them to the new Romulan representative.

Tedak despised the new ambassador, but learned to work with him despite mutual dislike. Anything for a healthy working environment on SBA. So in light of this, he picked up the report, which oddly enough was given to him printed on paper, and headed out the door.

"Greetings Nolan," he greeted his former aide, "is Ambassador s'Khellian in? It is imperative that I speak with him." Without awaiting the young man's response, Tedak marched past him, straight into Vebn's office. "How much do you know about this?" he demanded, slapping the report on the Romulan's desk. "They had a cloaking device! And they slaughtered an entire colony, without provocation. The cloak is of Romulan design Vebn, the Galaxy confirmed the signatures! Care to explain?"

[Deleted]

Joint Post with Tedak

Vebn looked up at Tedak and wondered how it was possible both of them were of the same species. Tedak was of course one of the new breed of Romulan, one born of Spocks attempts at reunification, one in fear of the losses they felt in the Dominion War and one who was abhorrent of the actions of Shnizon. Vebn it was safe to say was not cut from the same clothe. He prefered the old days when Romulans
were to be feared, not like today when many races and even those subjugated like the remans had the audacity to challenge them.
"As you usual you seem worked up Mr Mayor... and in matters that do not concern" you he said.
"Oh but they do concern me Mr Ambassador," Tedak drawled as he slammed the stack of paper on Vebn's desk, pleased to see him flinch ever so slightly, "especially where the safety of my subjects are concerned. And this certainly does compromise that."

Vebn shrugged, "This matter is between the Tholians and the Klingons and need not concern the Federation, nor in fact ourselves. I would also like to point out that the Tholians didnt slaughter an entire colony, nor were they the first to do so."

"Klingons?" Tedak couldn't believe it, Vebn was going to pin it all on the Klingons. "The cloaking device they possess is of Romulan origin, and I very much doubt that the Empress nor the Praetor would approve selling cloaking devices to the Tholians. What's your role in this Vebn, don't think I haven't noticed how often you've met with Kaskrene lately...I do have my sources aboard this station. Some of which, I might add, have turned up dead or not turned up at all."

"I m not denying the fact that the Tholians have Cloaking technology, and as one of the races blessed with such technology then it is logical to assume we could have sold it to them. That I neither confirm nor deny. Of course if we did sell them the technology there is nothing wrong with that is there?"

"It is against all treaties!" The Romulan took a deep breath, trying not to let the ambassador rattle him too much. "It is illegal to share our cloaking technology, let alone sell it. What if everyone was going to use cloaking technology? Expecially ours, then we'll be overrun before we realise who overran us! Is that what you are aiming for ambassador? The downfall of our empire?"

Vebn shook his head, "Not our treaties with the Tholians. The Klingons have Cloaks as do many other races... why should the Tholians be held back. That is not very enlightened of you especially when such a deal could benfit our Empire."

"Really..." He wasn't convinced in the slightest and made no effort to hide that. "Would the Tholians share their web technology with the Romulan Empire? I doubt it. They can't be trusted Vebn, if you won't take my word on any other subject at least take my word on this. Kaskrene can't be trusted."

"Their web technology is insignificant. I find your xenophobia must disturbing in someone who was a diplomat." Vebn grinned as he reminded Tedak of his old post

"Hah," Tedak scoffed, not taking the bait, "look who's talking." He tapped the report. "Read it Vebn, and be the diplomat you're supposed to be. From what I gather, you're the least popular person on this station. Did you know that the people who are supposed to come to you, actually still come to me for advice? That must sting your pride, that the fallen diplomat is still more popular than you will ever be."

"I m not here to be popular I am here to represent my government" he hissed angrily, "And if that means Obeying the senate in the sale of certain items then so be it. I do not have to be lectured on diplomacy by you. I am the one who sits at this desk, in this office not you. Go back to your petty municipal affairs and leave the inter galactic politics to the big boys."

Tedak leaned forward, coming face to face with the other man. "One of the roles of a diplomat is to be trusted by those he represents. You are the Romulan representative to the Federation. There are Romulans living on this station, Romulans that prefer to come to me because they feel they can't trust you. How will you explain that to your precious senate...a senate that, by the way, is as rotten as an egg beyond it's expiry date?"

"That Mr Tedak is sedition. If you had said that in the Empire you would have been locked up. This is a good time for us. A time for us to make the Empire strong oncemore. And yes it disturbs me that Romulans here go to you. But I m afraid my priorities are with all of our people not just the handful that live here. Now if you don't mind I suggest you let me get on with my work. Make a formal complaint or whatever you feel most appropriate but either way at this moment in time I am here, you are not and with no due respect stay out of business that isnt yours"

"Oh but anything that goes on within the confinements of this starbase are my business," Tedak hissed, "and what you are doing is treason. And I'll have you locked up, mark my words. I'll be restored and you'll be nothing but a smudge in the empire's history. You'll be invisible."

"Very well Mr Tedak. I have made a note of your threats. I will forward them myself to the senate and the Tal Shiar. Now if you dont mind" he reached and tapped his comm button. "Please have our officers remove Mr Tedak and alert Base Security that he may not wish to leave."

"By all means forward them..and all your illegal activities shall be exposed," the mayor snapped, snagging Vebn's wrist, "this isn't over. Good day....ambassador." He waved the security officers off. "I'm already on my way out. Lily, please forward a copy of this recorded meeting to my office, and to Admiral Lin. He may wish to be informed."

Vebn scowled as Tedak left. He ha hoped he would have been a loyal Romulan but it seemed the ex-ambassador would do anything to unseat him. Perhaps he would need to consult the Senate more closely on what to do about him. He put in the call right away.

[Magellan Lin]

Drolem sat quietly after his vistor had left. Something about the man unsettled him. He had enough pull to visit him in jail and carried around with him that much latinum!.

He leaned back on his bunk to cogitate on his dilemma. He links with the Tameron Consortium where profitable but dangerous, this guy couldnt be any more dangerous and was even more profitable.

Decided he sat up and called a guard over.

"I need to send a message."

The guard checked the allowances and saw that the prisoner had one remaining message allowed for that day. He opened up a monitored comm line and left the former Mayor to his call.

"I would like to leave a message for Mr......" he realised that he didnt know the mans name " hes a tall man, just checked in, big silver case and blue coat... I know its not much to go on but there can't be many at your hotel like that. All I want him to know is that Drolem Simeth will accept his offer if he can get me out of Jail."

TAG Unusual stranger

[Deleted]

backpost from Jefferson's arrival back to SBA, returning the crew that belong to SBA

T'Val had tried to ignore the ever-growing urges she was experiencing, finding the whole experience unsettling. Ji'Zhan's medication was no longer sufficient to allow her through the day without suffering, and she had stopped taking it before she became dependant on it. She was certain the Debrune diplomat would disapprove, but he was hardly a trained healer. T'Val felt she knew what she was doing, and it took a fair amount of effort and energy to keep going.

This morning she had pulled on a dove-grey skin-tight suit with a thin sleeveless, blood red overdress that was held together at the waist with a long sash. Her long hair was pulled together in a single loose braid, as she usually wore it when she was on duty. Against Tsomba's advise, she'd appeared for her duty shift as normal, her mental barriers up full to be as emotionally detached as was possible for her right now.

Yet, she was fully aware of her fiancé at the back of her mind. She had suppressed him from time to time to function normally, but every so often her thoughts would wander and she'd imagine hearing him speak to her. As was now the case, while she was working on a delicate medical experiment; she heard his voice, soothingly talking to her as she was writing up the report of her experiment. And as usual she would look around before realising he wasn't there.

However, when she looked up this time, she found him standing in the doorway to the lab, looking tired and bedraggled. "Stuart!" she exclaimed, dropping her tools onto her workbench, running towards him. "Had I known you were arriving already, I would have waited for you at the airlock," she chided him as she wrapped her arms around his waist, pulling him close to her. Immediately, as she touched his cheek, she felt the fire burning in her veins.

"Stuart..." she started, not knowing how to start her explanation, her need. "I am...ill," she finally settled on, "not seriously, but seriously enough." She continued to explain what others had determined for her, and how it could be 'cured'. "But first," she smiled, "we need to get you a bath and a clean uniform."

(Mercy)

[Felix Savali]

(Moddded My bits in in Orange - Magellan)


Just as he reached his room at the hotel, our mystery guest received a reply from Simeth saying that he accepts the offer. Good, our guest thought, just as I expected, he laughed. Now for phase 2 to get underway. It is a brilliant thing that I had foreseen the reply Simeth would give me and have therefore taken steps to ensure his release once the time comes. He grabbed his silver briefcase and left his room once more, however his destination this time has changed. He was on his way to see Admiral Lin and give him some good news, well it was good news for our guest and Drolem Simeth, but for Magellan, he was unsure how the Admiral would take it.

Once he arrived to the correct location, our guest handed his identification card to Magellan's secretary who then after contacting Magellan, allowed him access to the Admirals inner sanctum.

"Admiral Lin", our guest said, "I, as you are already aware, am a special advisor to the President of the United Federation of Planets and have been sent here to make special preparations for his arrival", he said

"That might be so but before I can accomodate your needs perhaps a little more formality is forthcoming" Magellan replied with a wry smile and extending a hand.

"Oh excuse my manners, I am Seto Kaiba, special advisor to the president of the federation", the man said showing no intention to shake hands with Magellan

Magellan looked at the man, his demeanour changing and withdrew his hand. "The President is'nt due till the end of the week... arrangements are in order."

"Now seeing you and I are both busy men, I will get right to the point", Kaiba said putting his briefcase on Magellan's desk and opening it

"The president has decided that in order to make her visit even more special and memorable, she would extend a pardon to one of the prisoners you have here on the Starbase. And as you do not have a whole lot of them here, the choice has fallen to Drolem Simeth. And therefore", Kaiba said extending a pad from his briefcase, "The president has signed a pardon form all crimes that our man Simeth might or might have not committed before stardate 930102.", he said giving Magellan the pad which had the president's seal and signature

"Now there will be an official ceremony where the president will officially pardon Simeth when she gets here, but as per this document, you are to release Simeth from the brig right away", Kaiba finished as he locked his briefcase once more

"You may keep that padd Admiral"; Kaiba said, "The pardon has already been filed with the central federation database", he said as he took his briefcase and started to leave

"I am departing now as I am sure you have enough to do as is", Kaiba said, "But we shall meet again Admiral", he added as he left the Admiral's office

Magellan scowled as he listened to the arrogant young man. He didnt like the way this smelled especially given that Drolem was supposed to face justice for all his misdemeanours...even though having all charges dropped could only help his own case...The papers however were all in order and so there was little he could do about that. He made the necessary calls toSecurity to get the mayor released and then made a second call to Zoilip, "Until our new Fleet Intell Officer arrives I want you to find out as much as you can about a Seto Kaiba. Report only to me." Im sure we will meet again he mused to himself and next time Mr Kaiba I intend to be better prepared.

After departing from the stunned admiral's office, Kaiba laughed once more. By giving support to the presidential candidate who was afterwards elected to office, granted him a certain influence with the office. And a small favor like getting Simeth pardoned was not that much of a problem now, he thought as he once more departed into the unknown...

[dodger]

Waking from a dream that had involved a stifling hot furnace-room and oversized talking spiders Dodger rolled onto her side and checked the time. Four in the morning. ‘Damn Tholians’ she cursed with a scowl as she threw off the covers. They weren’t due to arrive at Starbase Assailant until about nine but she knew that even if she slept again it would be to yet more accompanying nightmares. She yawned and stretched like a cat, wondering if her brother would be up at this time. The short answer was yes. He was as much a night owl as she, although night was relative on a Starship. She pulled on some civilian clothes and staggered towards the doorway in the half-light.

The Captain’s quarters were massive compared to her own, which were not substandard by any means themselves. Still, it didn’t hurt to have a family member living in the lap of luxury.

“Morning my dear brother.” She said cheerfully as she waltzed in through the door. She found his body slumped on the sofa open-mouthed, a book propped on his chest and a brandy glass just barely out of reach on the coffee table. He started when she came in, toppling the book to the floor and swinging his legs back over the arm so that he could sit upright.

“How did you…?” He asked, but then stopped, wondering if he even wanted to know.

“I have eyes everywhere.” She jibed, and sank down onto the cushion beside him. He rubbed his eyes sleepily and reached for his glass, draining the remaining liquor and replacing it on the coaster.

“You are learning too many of my tricks, little sister.” He pointed out. “I’m supposed to be the Cypher.”

She tried to look innocent. “And I’m supposed to Dodge. But it doesn’t mean you have to stand in the way of fast moving objects now does it…”

”Point taken.” He decided. “So what can I do for you at this ungodly hour?”

“Nothin’. I just couldn’t sleep.” She told him truthfully. He smiled understandingly.

“I know what you mean. I’ve just come from a small-hours meeting with Ambassador Kish. Apparently what he had to say couldn’t wait.” He said with a degree of malice lacing the words. Dodger raised an eyebrow slightly.

“And what did he have to say for himself?” She said, trying to make it sound like genuine interest.

“Nothing new. Obviously it wasn’t his fault. He’s blaming it all on the Tholians, saying they were unwilling to negotiate and that he shouldn’t have been sent in there in the first place.”

“It was his idea!” Dodger exclaimed.

“Doesn’t make any difference anyway. The Tholians launched another colonisation party while you were down there, it doesn’t even look like they were trying to hide it from us. I think they only went to the meeting to make a point, something that Mr. Kish is not taking too kindly to.” He said downheartedly. It was a shame there was nothing they seemed to be able to do. “Still, at least we know where we stand now, not that it fills me with confidence. I couldn’t think of anything more hideous than full scale hostility against those…those…things…” He pulled a repulsed face.

“I can…” Dodger muttered, recalling for one horrid moment the Lethean attack on the USS Nova that left her psychologically maimed for life. She wondered if Ripper would appreciate the comment she thought to be quite appropriate for their predicament.

“Sorry…” He brother said quickly. “That was insensitive. But you know what I mean. Creatures like that should never have been set free on the galaxy…makes you wanna snap those stupid legs off….” He said meanly.

“I’ll make sure to recommend that to the ambassador on Assailant…” Dodger chuckled, wondering if the present situation would ever escalate into one where she would have the chance to try it out. She suspected they wouldn’t let go of their creepy legs in a hurry, but if it came down to it…

The siblings talked for a good long time before both finally drifted back off to sleep. When Cypher’s alarm sounded signalling seven in the morning Dodger threw a cushion at it and buried her head in the sofa. Her brother got up and switched it off, informing her that they would be reaching Assailant within the hour. She grunted something incomprehensible with a mouthful of sofa and closed her eyes in denial. With a heavy sigh she made her way back to her quarters to change. In full uniform, she waited with a mixture of excitement and anxiety as they approached the base. This was a fresh start for her, a new beginning, and a chance to shine, but all overshadowed as they now stood in the growing darkness between the Tholians and the Klingons.

[Deleted]

Saarok looked around as he stepped of the special diplomatic transport that transported him from Earth back to Assaillant. He had spent the last week "negotiating" along with the whole of Diplomatic Crops of the UFP, the President of the UFP, representatives from Starfleet Command, Cardassian and Romulan envoy's and a Klingon ambassador on one side and representatives from Tholia on the other. Although they were supposed to be on the same side the Romulan and Klingon Envoy's almost murdered one another and the Klingon Ambassador at one point leapt up at the Tholian representative that security had to be called in to settle things down. The conclusion of this whole thing was that Klingons would attack Tholian Colonies in their space and Tholians would defend them. So basically they are going to war and the UFP will be stuck in the middle of their conflict for the Klingons once more expect support from the Federation.

But for now the Federation has agreed to leave the Tholian colonies where they are but they would increase Starfleet presence in sectors where they suspect the Tholians might move to colonize something again. So they would attempt to peacefully prevent formation of any more Tholian colonies in their space. A complicated situation all in all.

Saarok and his 4 companions (2 firelizards and 2 guards), proceeded to leave from the docking bay and headed straight for the embassy. He had more work to do and first thing he needed to do was meet with Magellan Lin, Ambassador Ezdreiana and the notorious Dodger who just caused, with the aid of an incompetent ambassador, more trouble with the Tholians. After he finally arrived to the Embassy he sent a message to the parties he would need to meet with.

=/\=Ambassador Saarok to Admiral Lin=/\=

=/\=Admiral it is urgent that I meet with you and the Fleet Intelligence Officer, who if I am not mistaken, will be arriving shortly. I propose we meet in the conference room in 1 hour. And make sure Captain Voran attends as well.=/\=

=^=Understood Ambassador, I ll have Zoilip prepare the main Conference room on the Starfleet level. Captain Voran will meet us there=^=

=/\=I shall see you there admiral, Saarok out=/\=

Now that he arranged the meeting with the Starfleet side, it was time to arrange it with Ezdreiana.

=/\=Saarok to Ambassador Ezdreiana=/\=

=/\=Ambassador, there will be a meeting in the conference room in 59 minutes with the main topic being the Tholian situation. You presence is required there. Saarok out=/\=

<Tag Everyone>

[Deleted]

As Saarok emerged from the docking bay and through the VIP express clearance zone Ambassador Vebn s'khellian sat quietly on one of the curved couches reserved for those waiting for visitors to disembark.

"Ambassador Saarok!" He greeted, standing up and approaching the Vulcan "Fancy meeting you here, a good summit?"

Saarok merely nodded, well aware that Vebns presence was a subtle reminder that the Romulan knew exactly what was happening right down to when Saaroks ship was due to dock.

"Its went as well as could be expected." he replied non commitedly

"I look forward to working with you on this matter although to be honest I do belive it would be best if both the Federation and the Romulan Star Empire remains out of it, leave the Tholians and the Klingons to their petty games."

"If you wish to discuss policy then it would be ;ogical in a more suitable locale, perhap later Ambassador" Saarok replied with a curt bow.

"Of course Ambassador" Vebn replied "Another time perhaps"

Saarok and his entourage left the docking zone and entered a turbolift Vebn sighed and ruefully realised he could procrastinate no longer. Following the Vulcan out he took a seperate lift up to the Arcade.

He spent some time wandering through markets and bazaars before finally entering the business district and the offices that constitutes city hall.

"I am here to see Mayor Tedak" he told the desk clerk who buzzed him through.

TAG Tedak

"I havent come for another sparring match. In fact you should be greatful I have come at all. I have recieved new orders from the senate. They feel we need to concentrate greater resources on this sector. With the Tholian and Klingon incident taking up a lot of my time they have suggested a larger staff."

TAG Tedak

"Bear with me please. Im not happy with the Senates decison but they wish to re-instate your Ambassadorial status. They want you to handle the Debrune, you will be our Ambassador to them I will retain superiority in matters with the Federation and the other nation states on this base but you will have the sole responsiblity for liasing with the new Debrune government. The senate will no doubt be sending you a data packet any moment."

TAG Tedak

"Like I said I m not happy about it and I d be quite happy for you to decline... the choice is yours. Good day Ambassador"

TAG Tedak

[Deleted]

"I am here to see Mayor Tedak" he told the desk clerk who buzzed him through.

"Who..." Tedak started as Vebn marched into his office. A scowl spread across his face as he acknowledged the diplomat's presence with a curt nod, then waved toward a vacant chair. "Please sit," he offered, "why are you here ambassador?"

"I havent come for another sparring match. In fact you should be greatful I have come at all. I have recieved new orders from the senate. They feel we need to concentrate greater resources on this sector. With the Tholian and Klingon incident taking up a lot of my time they have suggested a larger staff."

"Me...grateful that you've come to see me. That'll be the day! New orders...what did they finally come to their senses and recalled you back to Romulus?" He paused as Vebn continued. "Oh, seems they're still searching for their senses then. So, any more of your goons coming to Assaillant then? I'm sure Magellan will be ever so pleased with that."

"Bear with me please. Im not happy with the Senates decison but they wish to re-instate your Ambassadorial status. They want you to handle the Debrune, you will be our Ambassador to them I will retain superiority in matters with the Federation and the other nation states on this base but you will have the sole responsiblity for liasing with the new Debrune government. The senate will no doubt be sending you a data packet any moment."

For the first time, Tedak fell momentarily speechless. "So they did come to their senses to some extend then," he scoffed, "and I bet you're just thrilled with this bit of news?"

"Like I said I m not happy about it and I d be quite happy for you to decline... the choice is yours. Good day Ambassador"

"Oh no I'll be accepting this offcer! If I have to take working with you for granted then so be it, anything to keep you on your toes ambassador. If that was everything, then perhaps you should take a look at this. I received it today, you may want to warn the higher ups in the empire." He handed Vebn a PADD. "Drolem Simeth has been released from the brig, given a general pardon. The man is a notorious criminal, and I am still working very hard to clean up the mess he left behind. He is as corrupt as they come, if not worse. And he's extremely dangerous."

He left Vebn to decide what to do with the information as he watched the Romulan walk out of the mayor's office. "Tedak to Ezdreiana and Saarok, when you both have time, could we meet for lunch? I have information I need to share with both of you."

[Deleted]

Exactly 60 minutes after he spoke to Magellan to organize the meeting, Saarok entered the conference room. When he got there he found all the people whose presence he requested. He ordered his two guards to stand in front of the door so that no one would disturb them. As he greeted all who were there he decided to avoid loosing any time and went to the point straight away.

"Ladies and gentlemen", he began as he moved to stand in front of the table

"I would like to begin by introducing myself to your newest staff member Admiral", Saarok said, "Ensign Drake"; he said, "My name is Ambassador Saarok and I am the leading diplomat of the Federation in this sector."; he said while extending his hand to the young woman

<Tag Dodger>

"Fear not, I have heard quite a lot about you and your activities that took place before you were assigned here, and I do believe that you made a narrow getaway on this last mission where you managed to coerce the Tholians to attack you when your diplomatic skills failed", he said, "But that is a matter for a different time.", he said

<Tag Dodger>

"Now, the reason i called you all here is to inform you of the decisions that were reached while i was in attendance of the diplomatic negotiations on Earth", he began

"The Federation has decided against taking any actions aimed at removing the existing Tholian colonies from our space for now, however we have also reached a decision to divert Starfleet vessels to the sectors that have a high risk as the possible locations for new Tholian colonies and their job will be to prevent the Tholians from creating a colony in the sectors they are patrolling by making it appear as if the D class planets in that sector do not fall into the category of not used. If the Tholians are only using the planets we do not use and want their façade to hold... they will leave the area peacefully. On the other hand if they do not... we will know where we stand.", he said

"Second item is the Klingons who are very close to initiating an all out war against the Tholian's with this sector getting caught in the middle and with the Khitomer accords once again on the line if we do not join them once more.", he said, "For now we will not join them. However we will assist them in any way that does not include attacking the Tholians. That means, repair and restock of their ships even if they are on the way to attack the Tholians. The Tholians might not like this... but we can not risk going to war with the Klingons.... all that the Tholian's might be and their technology of the web might be impressive... they are nothing compared to the Klingon's.", Saarok said, "And it is logical to go with the lesser of two evils.", he said

"Now, Captain Voran I must insist that you keep your distance from that Tholian planet... We are not going to be doing any provocations.", he said, "And finally... as some of you may already know the President of the United Federation of Planets will be arriving at the end of this week to attempt to calm thing down a bit. Due to this special measures will be put in place, but I am sure Admiral Lin will have to say more on that.", Saarok finished

<Tag Everyone>

[Deleted]

It had been a few days since Ezdrieana had killed a former Starfleet Captain. She had been reclusive and very abusive towards everyone. The person who had suffered the most from this was Tedak, probably the one man who indeed was able to understand her situation. He had tried to help, but Ezdreiana was not at the least cooperative. She had berated him, splashed him with hot coffee, and even called him fat which seemed to affect him the most. As she thought about it she saw how stupid she had really been and was afraid that she had destroyed a friendship that had become very valueable to her.

She had tried to contact Tedak but she was postive that Tedak would not want to speak to her. She decided that her personal problems would have to wait. Ambassador Saarok had debriefed her on what had happened between the Federation, Klingons, and Tholians. She hadn't realized it was that bad, but when she was informed that the new Federation President would be arriving later in the week, she knew that an all out war was very possible.

Ezdreiana had been hard at work contacting every friend she had in the competing empires. She had the ear of Mazerk son of D'Ghor, from the House of D'Ghor. Mazerk had worked endlessly to regain the stature and honor that his father had lost so many years ago. Once again the name of D'Ghor had influence on Qo'noS and the House of D'Ghor was indebted to her.

"We will destroy the Tholians, they have violated us and they have violated you as well my friend," Mazerk said," from what I know the Federation is on our side. We will destroy them in glorious battle, Ezdreiana, in glorious battle. Just say the word and my fleet will be at your command."

The conversation with Mazerk didn't bear any information, but Ezdreiana was glad to know that a Klingon Imperial fleet would be at her call. She would make sure to inform Admiral Lin and Saarok about this.

=/\=Saarok to Ambassador Ezdreiana=/\=

=/\=Ambassador, there will be a meeting in the conference room in 59 minutes with the main topic being the Tholian situation. You presence is required there. Saarok out=/\=

=^=Understood Ambassador, I will be there. Ezdreiana out=^=

She quickly prepared her report and headed toward what could be one of the most important meetings ever. What they decided here could change the face of the Beta and Alpha quadrant. As she listened to Saarok give his report, Ezdreiana pondered on the devastation that a war could cause. Once Saarok finished, it was time for Ezdreiana to speak up.

"From I have gathered, the Empire is more than ready to begin this war. The House of D'Ghor is at the border waiting for a response. Mazerk has offered his fleet to us if war should break out. The Tholian side is a bit more complicated, Federation sources have reported major activity, but nothing concrete has been established," Ezdrieana said as she showed them the number of ships Mazerk was offering. "By the time the President arrives there will be more than 100 ships in this part of space."

<Tag Everyone>

[mercy]

***Backpost of Stuart Mercy and Magellan Lin arriving at SBA***

The trip in the Jefferson's Captain's Yacht seemed a very long one, only because of Stuart's anticipation of seeing T'Val. Admiral Lin enjoyed the trip and used the time to get back to his old self. Stuart had monitored him on a regular basis over the last three days, and it seemed that the Admiral was adjusting well.

The past two hours, Stuart did everything he could to suppress his mind from touching T'Val's. He wanted to surprise her, and he even kept Yade from going 'between' to see her first. Stuart felt a little cruelty in not telling her, but he feared that the anticipation would be too overwhelming in her current state. He had hoped that she was fairing well, but he knew that she wasn't okay.

Finally they had arrived. Admiral Lin expertly piloted the yacht into one of the many bays, shut down the engines, and opened the access door for them to exit.

"Well Doctor Mercy, do i need to come to sickbay or can I go straight to Ops?"

"I have no fears of you reverting to...to...well you know. You're fit for duty. I'll come by and check up on you later."

The Admiral reached out one of his hands shaking Stuart's while patting him on the shoulder with the other. "I can't thank you enough for all you have done for me. I am forever in your debt."

"Admiral, it's my job to keep you indebted to me."

They both laughed at Stuart's comment knowing that he would do anything to keep the Admiral alive at all costs if possible.

"Maybe sir, you can repay some of it at some point by having a drink with me. By the stars of the Milky Way we need it."

Again they chuckled together as they walked onto the starbase. "Yes, that would be nice. For now I need to get to Ops though, and I'm sure someone is waiting to see you as well."

"Yes sir! I'm on my way."

The two departed with a closer sentiment of being friends as opposed to just being colleagues.

Stuart arrived in sickbay looking for the very sight that would indeed sooth his sore eyes. At first he didn't find T'Val until he was directed to the lab. Seeing her in her splendid garb of that tight-fitting grey suit with her red overthrow whatever it was called...he thought out to her.

~T'Val, I'm here!~

He knew she she would hear him. Yade was on his shoulders, just itching to hop on over to her as well.

She turned and she found him standing in the doorway to the lab, looking tired and bedraggled. "Stuart!" she exclaimed, dropping her tools onto her workbench, running toward him. "Had I known you were arriving already, I would have waited for you at the airlock," she chided him as she wrapped her arms around his waist, pulling him close to her. Immediately, as she touched his cheek, she felt the fire burning in her veins.

"Stuart..." she started, not knowing how to start her explanation, her need. "I am...ill," she finally settled on, "not seriously, but seriously enough." She continued to explain what others had determined for her, and how it could be 'cured'. "But first," she smiled, "we need to get you a bath and a clean uniform."

Stuart smiled coyly, "And what will be my excuse to get you out of your clothes?"

Stuart saw Nurse Tsomba off in the distance as they left sickbay and he had wondered if he had said that too loud. Oh well, he didn't care. They were both happy to be back together again.

[Deleted]

T'Val too noticed Tsomba's sharp disapproving stare. "Excuse?" she laughed, "since when do you need an excuse." She pulled him out of sickbay and towards their quarters.

After a while, Stuart and T'Val sat together in the living room of their quarters, T'Val leaning lazily against her fiancé. She was extremely glad he had returned to her, for she had been starting to become worried about what might happen if he wouldn't return soon. Now that he had, she felt calmer and a little more focused, though she knew that too would soon be over.

She had entered the first stage of pon farr, and soon the plak-tow, the bloodfever, would be beyond her control. "Stuart, when will we perform the bonding ceremony?" she suddenly asked. Though she didn't wish to rush him, he did need to know how important this was to her. And she did wish it to happen before she would lose total control of herself. That was what scared her the most, losing total control.

[Magellan Lin]

"From I have gathered, the Empire is more than ready to begin this war. The House of D'Ghor is at the border waiting for a response. Mazerk has offered his fleet to us if war should break out. The Tholian side is a bit more complicated, Federation sources have reported major activity, but nothing concrete has been established," Ezdrieana said as she showed them the number of ships Mazerk was offering. "By the time the President arrives there will be more than 100 ships in this part of space."

Magellan shook his head, he had spent most of the past week since his return trying to understand what had been happening in his absence, it seemed to him that the whole region had gone to hell in a hand basket.

"I m not particularly happy about the Presidents timing. I know she wants to improve relations with the Debrune and show a brave face in coming to a potential war zone but ... its a foolish risk if you ask me."

"Foolish?" Saarok queried, "There is a certain logic to her motives"

"True but as Ezdreiana pointed out we have up to 100 ships in the area... admittedly they arent after us but we all know that there is a high risk that despite our neutrality that we will be drawn into it. To that end I ve decided to bluk up our defences. The First Fleet will continue with their current assignments for now but I have called on the Lion, Lonewolf and Magician to support the Galaxy, Copenhagen and Vanquisher in defence of this system."

"Surely the President will be coming with an escort."

Magellan nodded and cast a quick glance at 'Dodger',
"She will but at present I m not at liberty to disclose them, besides I m still hoping to persuade Command to send the Vice-President instead. Until then however we go with what we know. I shall leave the matter of the Tholians to you Ambassadors. Captain Voran you will liase with extra ships to establish a defensive cordon and work with the House of D'Ghor. Please ensure they get what they need and that they cause no trouble. Thankyou gentleman"

As they assembled staff rose and began to leave Magellan held up a hand to Ezra,

"A moment Ensign Drake"

"Of course sir."

"I just wanted to welcome you to the base properly. You come highly recommended I m sure you ll settle in quickly. You ll be working with Commander Zoilip who handles Tactical and Commander Sharon Vanetti - Security." he paused "we need Intel now than more so than ever and I dont want to swamp you but... well theres a few things I need you to focus on...one the involvement of the Romulans in this skirmish between the Tholians and Klingons, two why the Tholians want so many demon class planets - it doesnt seem to have been intended as a hostile move and lastly keep an eye on a certain gentleman who just granted the bases biggest criminal a pardon from his crimes."

"That all" she smiled,

"Yes thats all, and you have my authority to do what is necessary...within reason. Do not betray my trust... unsure ask me. Very well.. Dismissed."

TAG all

[evoran]

(Modded my bits in - makes it flow better - Magellan)

As the meeting ended and everyone filed out the door, Voran caught up with Admiral Lin.

"Magellan," he said, catching up with the Trill and walking alongside him, "it's good to see you again, how are you?"

"Thankyou Captain... I feel altogether again, thankyou to you Loskene and Savali for holding the fort in my absence."

"Is it true that the President is pardoning Drolem Simeth?" Asked Voran; he had heard it but couldn't believe it. It was very unusual for the Federation President to pardon a criminal, it was even more unusual to do it for no particular reason, and the fact that it was Simeth made it nigh on unbelieveable.

"Yes" Magellan replied pensively, "I can't say I m happy with it. I also doubt it is in fact the Presidents idea...she probably just rubber stamped it. Either way Drolem is free...something we will have to fond a way to rectify... once the President is gone perhaps we'll pay him a visit again"

"I've never heard of such a thing. What do you know of the President? I'm not familiar with her or her career."

Magellan and Voran left the starfleet only levels of the Spacedock level and emerged onto a broad corridor that ran along the edge of the interior spacedock. A vast plasteel window gave an awe inspiring view out in to the bay and of the visiting starships.

"Very little, I wasnt exactly myself during the last election I didn t even vote. I never found the time. I have however since done a little homework. Zahara was Councillor for Zakdorn for several years and came out of left field to take the position... she stood on a platform of inter-galactic peace and a re-making of the Federation."

"Remaking?"

"Exactly, she hasn't done much since elected, there have been one or two incidents but nothing remarkable... well nothing within your clearance bracket anyways" he chuckled "She has however suggested that Earth plays to bigger part in the running of the Federation and Starfleet, she suggested in her last speech about moving the seat of government for France elsewhere, so far Vulcan, Betazed and Bolarus are the front runners. And shes handling the Tholian situation well so far... this will be the real test of her leadership... only time will tell if she makes a good president. Ah this is my lift" he said reaching one of the shafts. "I ll see you later Captain"

[Deleted]

After the meeting was over, Saarok again joined with his two guards and his firelizards. He decided to take up Tedak on his invitation for lunch. He took notice of Ezdreiana who was just about to enter a lift nearby.

"Ambassador"; Saarok called, "I am going to meet with Mayor Tedak for lunch and he has, I believe, invited you as well. DO you plan on taking him up on the invite", Saarok questioned

<Tag Ezdreiana>

"If you wish to attend, we shall be at the Fishtank", Saarok responded as he and Ezdreiana parted ways

=/\=Saarok to Tedak, we can meet for lunch at the Fishtank in 30 minutes=/\=

After he sent the message to Tedak he and his party proceeded towards the Fishtank to reserve a private table before the lunch crowd hit the corridors.

<Tag Tedak>

[Ji' Zhan]

--- on planet Qualinost ---

The morning sun rose between the two highest peaks of the eastern mountain range casting a hue of morning colors on the landscape. The first ray of light beamed into Ji’Zhan’s apartment illuminating the Elder’s face, a face that had been up for several hours already. Ever since he and the other Elders had gotten word of the Federation’s letter announcing the acceptance into the Federation, the Elders and their council were busy preparing the planet for the Presidents visit. Ji’Zhan was, of course, excited however he wanted more to talk with the President about how other races, like the Romulans, had been looking at their planet as if it was some gourmet delight. Just wanting to rape the planet and the Debrune of resources and technology, technology that still wasn’t known to very many. He wanted the Federation to respect the Debrune as being the same age as the Vulcan race, another fact that he was sure not many knew. He most detested the Romulans greedy hands and how their words were laced with sweet sounds that only served to cover the true intent of their hearts. And now with Tedak back as the Romulan Ambassador to the Debrune, he did feel somewhat better. However, Ji’Zhan still wasn’t really sure what Tedak’s true feelings are towards the Debrune. That fact only enforced his feeling that the Romulans were too secretive to be trusted completely.

The sun was now starting to dry the morning dew as the landscapes leaves and flowers glimmered reflecting the morning’s warmth. Ji’Zhan remembered his father’s word to him early in Ji’Zhan’s politic career, “Above all my son, even above the best of friendships, you must protect the Debruni people. You must keep their protection, their needs above all else.” A tear from the warm memory appeared in the corner of his eye and then fell from his face; he knew that the coming years would test that advice.

Those thoughts were interrupted when a cold nose touched his hand. On Ji’Zhan’s last visit to Earth he fell in love with an animal … a type of canid, a mammal in the order Carnivora … to be more direct … a dachshund.

[Deleted]

Browsing through his messages, Tedak almost smiled when he came across Saarok's acknowledgement of the invitation. Yet, only one invitation remain. "Tedak to Ji'Zhan, I'm having a lunch meeting with Saarok and Ezdreiana in an hour. I would like to invite you as well."

Then he saw another message, though this one originated from Vulcan. His eyebrows rose as he read the message; it was from Soric of Vulcan. He ran his hand through his hair in anticipation as he continued reading, his surprise rising. Apparently, Soric was coming to Assaillant, but hadn't been able to get a hold of his daughter. Sighing, Tedak closed down his terminal and checked his chronometer; he'd only had less than an hour left to get a hold of T'Val, and Mercy.

"Sev, fly on ahead and warn Yade of my arrival," he told his bronze, while he sent Nut to Aeris to inform Saarok he might actually be a few minutes late and that he'd explain why later. While he sent his two firelizards away he broke into a run through SBA's corridors. He had quite a way to go from the diplomatic level to the starfleet habitat levels, a distance that would take him at least ten minutes to cross at a full run. According to the computer, both T'Val and Stuart Mercy were home, otherwise he would've gone to sickbay instead.

"T'Val open up!" he called, banging the door and hoping she'd still be capable of aswering. "T'Val please this is important!"

The door opened to reveal T'Val and Stuart, neither looking too pleased at being disturbed. "What is it you want?" the Vulcan woman snapped, "Yade said you were coming but did not specify why. Please call your bronze off, it is making her nervous. She will come to him when she is ready to fly."

Tedak smiled briefly at the remark, knowing his bronze would always outfly Saarok's little blue. Nut had flown Aeris only recently, and was content to only pursue the queen, even though he was a brown and Sev was the bronze, he was the larger of the two male firelizards. "Ah yes, but that is not why I have come. I have just received a message from Vulcan."

T'Val and Mercy exchanged a somewhat surprised glance, before returning their attention to the Romulan invader. "Vulcan?" she echoed, "why would you receive a message from Vulcan, and from whom?"

"A Vulcan called Soric contacted me to please get a hold of his daughter as he was unable to do so. I am merely complying with an older man's wishes. I know Soric is your father. He wishes you to know he will arrive on Assaillant in a few days, and that he will be coming alone. He, and I quote, felt it was time he came to visit his only child and meet his grandson." He smiled. "When he arrives I'll make certain that D'Beren can be with you. Provided of course you're not uh...otherwise occupied."

"Thank you mayor Tedak," she answered formally, "you relaying the message is appreciated."

"Actually, it's ambassador again. To the Debrune people. It was very pleasant to see Vebn as uncomfortable as I've ever seen him, having to ask me whether I would be interested in taking up the position, since the Senate please wished me to."

"That is good news," T'Val answered, "now please leave us." She watched her ex-bondmate leave then turned to Stuart. "I had not expected my father to come, I wonder how he knew he ought to be here, since I have not had the chance to contact him. My mother has never left Vulcan, nor will she ever. She will not attend our wedding."

[dodger]

Approximately thirteen minutes after arriving on Starbase Assailant Dodger was summoned to a meeting where she felt rather vertically challenged, standing at a mere five foot five, still three inches short of Admiral Lin’s height, who was the smallest after her. Even though she had made a special effort to change into a fresh uniform one look down at her creased shirt and Dodger was able to note that in addition she was by far the most scruffily dressed. Of course, if they had wanted her to be well turned out they should have given her more notice. That was how she was going to look at it anyhow.

The meeting was brought to order by a Vulcan who was almost a whole foot taller than the young woman herself, but the matter was overlooked as like most of the party she was sitting down.

"Ladies and gentlemen. I would like to begin by introducing myself to your newest staff member Admiral. Ensign Drake. My name is Ambassador Saarok and I am the leading diplomat of the Federation in this sector." He began.

“Pleasure, Ambassador. Sorry I am not dressed for the occasion, I only just got here…” Dodger replied, cringing at the use of her surname while shaking his outstretched hand. She had to admit she was mildly surprised that he had even noticed her face among so many others.

"Fear not, I have heard quite a lot about you and your activities that took place before you were assigned here, and I do believe that you made a narrow getaway on this last mission where you managed to coerce the Tholians to attack you when your diplomatic skills failed", he said, "But that is a matter for a different time.", he said.

“Indeed.” She agreed, not really enjoying the attention he was drawing to her at the present time. As the meeting continued, Dodger felt appeased that she had been able to guess most of what he told them, and that which she couldn’t guess she had probably instigated somehow. When it finally ground to a halt, having been a relatively short meeting by her standards, the young woman was halted by Admiral Lin, and was somewhat comforted at being able to look him straight in the eye without craning her neck. In a very workmanlike manner he missed out the warm welcome and instead reeled off a concise list of activities which she immediately committed to memory.

He dismissed her, and just as she was on her way out the door she grabbed hold of the frame and swung back to face the Admiral. “By the way Sir, most people call me Dodger.”

He smiled and she could have sworn she saw him roll his eyes as she disappeared through the doorway. Back in the bowels of the station she ran over the meeting again in her head. Well, that was fun wasn’t it? said a sarcastic voice that only she could hear. This time it was Dodger who rolled her eyes.

“Go away.” She hissed under her breath, so that passing crewmen would not think she was talking to herself. Then she saw him, leaning casually against the wall with his long legs crossed over one another looking quite at home. “Should have left you on that Tholian planet…” she spat as she walked past him.

Speaking of which…‘Two: Why the Tholians want so many demon class planets’ Ripper chanted in an exact replica of the Admiral’s voice as he caught up with her.

“Quite. Who’d want to live on one of them anyway? Personally I say let them have them…” Dodger retorted. She had no love lost for the Tholians, or firebreathing planets. Actually, she thought the two went quite well together, away from her…

So where are we going? Ripper asked.

“In reverse order…” Dodger muttered, sweeping around several people going the other way who hadn’t even noticed her. Over the years she had become rather adept at disappearing within a crowd.

Ah. Seto Kaiba then…

“Yes…” Dodger replied absent-mindedly, before pausing with a frown. “Who?”

Special Advisor to the President…and the man responsible for pardoning criminals.. He said in a haughty tone as though it was common knowledge.

Dodger shook her head. “How do you know that?” She asked

Same way I knew your brothers lock code. He claimed innocently.

“Fair enough.” She said with a shrug as she finished unscrewing the hatch to the access tube. As she had displayed in the meeting, Dodger rarely liked to be the centre of attention, and in fact liked to be the extreme opposite. A lot of the time that involved disappearing entirely. She found she worked better when out of the eyes of her superiors.

“So where does this tube go then smarty pants?” she asked as she crawled through the opening and replaced the hatch behind her.

Ripper looked around sheepishly. No idea. He said with a grin.

[Felix Savali]

(Ive modded in Simeths - Magellan)

After Simeth got out of the brig, he lost no time and proceeded straight to track down the mystery stranger whose name he still did not know. But the stranger was by far quicker then Simeth and moments before the turbolift doors shot closed he slipped inside.

"Why Mr. Simeth, what a surprised to see you here"; the stranger commented

"I have here what you desire the most", the stranger said as he gave Simeth the cylinder he showed him earlier while still keeping his silver briefcase in the other hand

"Thank you" Drolem replied slightly suspcious of the mans motives

"Now let us move on by giving you your first assignment", the stranger said, "I wish for you to start for me a nice little restaurant on the entertainment level. But I mean a real one where there will be cooked food not this that comes out of the replicator. I want it to offer a variety of different cuisines; therefore you will need to get to work to find chefs who are well versed in the arts. And be sure to offer Italian foods.", the stranger finished

Drolem stared at the man as if he was mad. He was a world class criminal and he wanted to open up a restaurant, now that was a first either the man was an idiot or up to some game he wasnt aware of Drolem went with the later but decided to play along, at least for now. "And who am I to start such a business?"

"Here is a little something for the expenses", the stranger said as he put his briefcase on the ground and opened it while extracting a second cylinder slightly smaller than the first one and handed it to Simeth.

"Lift resume", the stranger said as the lift started moving once more and moments later the doors opened

"You know where to find me when you are done. DO not disappoint me", the stranger replied as he started leaving

"Of course" Drolem replied obseqiuosly, "oh whats your name"

"You may call me… Mr. Kaiba", the stranger replied as he disappeared into an unknown direction with his silver briefcase in his right arm

[mercy]

"Stuart, when will we perform the bonding ceremony?"

Stuart sat on the couch with a cup of tea in his hands, cradling it. “As soon as possible, dear. Oh that reminds me, I was able to bring a little present for you from the mining planet.”

T’Val’s eyes grew wide with eagerness. Stuart went to his traveling bag, which he had yet to unpack, reached in and retrieved a small black box.

“When did you have time to pick up this present?” T’Val was wondering out loud as she accepted the box from him.

“The Colonel wanted to check the colony to make sure that the Admiral, I mean Loran, and his crew didn’t harm anyone down there. They had a few people that were a bit mistreated by some of the Klingons. One of them offered what was in this box as payment. Of course I refused, but after I looked at it more closely I went ahead and made an offer for it. He gladly accepted. Go ahead and open it.”

T’Val lifted the top off. Her expression turned to one with a wide smile on her face.



Stuart watched her as she took it out. “I’m sure you’re aware of this human tradition, where we signify our bonding to one another.”

“Yes, I do.” She tried it on and examined it more.

“Well, do you like it? I have another in the bag for me. What do you think?”

<T’Val>