SB ASSAILANT MISSION 2.1 Reflections

[Magellan Lin]

Life aboard a starbase could hardly be considered dull. In fact for most on Assailant it was pretty much the antithesis of dull. Every day thousands went about there business unawares of the perils that they were under. Only the select few, those in Ops, or the diplomatic offices knew the full horrors that sometimes threatened the simple tranquility of deep space.
Hanging like a vast colonial mushroom, Assailant above the rusty surface of Qualinost emerged from the shadow of the planet out into the bright rays that for those planetside would be a new day. On board might and day were relative terms. Sensors connected to the station systems tripped the corridor lights bringing them up from the dim half light of night time to the full glow of daylight. All across the station beds were made and breakfasts prepared. Up in Ops, the night watch - Gamma was replaced by Alpha. A refreshed Magellan strode into his office and began to check his messages.

Things were, despite the virgin newness of the day, still somewhat of a mess. The pirate attacks whilst reduced had not stopped completely and the hunt for Sonev was still on going, the man seemed to have vanished. He called for Jibb to be brought to him.
It took about half an hour to find the courier and another hour for him to reach the Admirals office.
"Ah Jibb" Magellan greeted,
Jibb nodded and grasped the admirals outstretched hand ignoring the way the trill seemed unable to use anything but his last name.
"I wanted to up date you on the search for Sonev."
"I see" Jibb replied taking the profered seat.
"I m not sure how your own investigations have been going but so far we have turned up nothing."
"I m afraid to say that is the same for me."
"Its been two days, we ve searched where we can. I cant keep the station locked down any longer. As of 10am today the station will be open for business once more. I understand you want to catch the man, but on a scale of galactic crime, trying to steal your ship is pretty low, and you may consider that you owe him for helping you escape"
"You condone his actions?"
Magellan smiled a sickly false smile,
"Thats not what I said. I can give you one piece of information though”
“Yes?”
“I ve pulled a few strings and circulated his description, Sonev is not a registered operative of Starfleet Intelligence, of course it could be lies, but it looks as if Sonev wasn’t aboard the Avenger for the reasons he stated.”
“Well thankyou Admiral for your help. And I hope you don’t mind if I keep on at this in my spare time”
“No not at all, but I expect as soon as the lockdown ends he’ll be gone.”
“We’ll see. Good Day”
Magellan watched Jibb leave noting once more what a remarkable person he was, as with most of the staff on Assailant he had a hidden side, perhaps something even dark to him. He mused a moment on his own revelations, his own secrets… his awakening.

[Magellan Lin]

At 9 am Magellan was seated in the main conference room. He sat fumbling with a collection of PADDS waiting for the senior staff to arrive. It was teh daily briefing and there was much to go on.
He scanned through situation reports and the like. He noted that T'Val had been spending a lot of time planetside with teh Debrune, no doubt something to do with the child. The first Debrune colonists would arrive in a matter of days, 6000 to start with, with another 10000 to follow, nearly all that still remained of the race. There was a report from Dr Sharex that stated that Jak'Dor had finally allowed him access to the reactor to begin the Gaia Process.
As Magellan waited for his staff he noted wryly that Saarok was probably doing the same thing in teh diplomatic offices, with the arrival of Jatira, and the New Fabrinis the Federation Delegation was much larger and needed greater control.
F'Rass entered his fur slicked back and sour expression, was the man never happy?
"Commander."
"Sir. First here?"
"Yes Fr'[word deleted] you always are, I guess thats why you look after traffic control."
The Regulan nodded and took his seat.

[Deleted]

Tomlinson yawned as he woke up, and looked at the time, which was projected onto the ceiling. The clock had been a gift from an ex-girlfriend, and had been the best thing he had got out of any of them. The red digits on the roof were slightly unfamiliar. He waited until they came into focus, and then realised why. He was running half an hour late, meaning he had the meeting with the rest of the senior staff in about 30 seconds. He groaned, and swung his legs off the bed.

A couple of minutes later, he was fully dressed and walking quickly through the ship. When he was halfway there, his assistant intercepted him, and kept pave beside him.

"You got that meeting now boss?"

"Yeah, he always insists on holding them early. Anything going on around the station this morning?"

"Just the usual you know. A few petty thefts, a minor assault, nothing out of the ordinary."

"Good, let's hope it stays like that." He smiled, turning off, and entering the briefing room. He noticed that he wasn't the only one who was late. Fr'[word deleted] was the only one there, apart from the Admiral, and the pair of them were always the first two, so he didn't have much to bother about.

"I hope you're not going to put the station at risk Admiral."

"I'd never do that."

[Deleted]

Several hours have passed since Saarok was hit in the head by an energy discharge. During that time no one stopped by his office as they assumed logically that he was not here but in fact he was. In the meantime the man that shot him had already collected his payment and was ready to depart from SB Assailant as soon as it was open for traffic again.

Saarok was slowly coming ‘round. His head hurt badly. He looked around the room and raised an eyebrow. But said nothing he slowly got up from the floor and up to his feet. He looked around the room once more, and yet he could not remember where he was.

“Odd”, he thought

=/\=Computer what is my current location? =/\=

=/\=You are in the office of Ambassador Saarok=/\=

The computer responded.

Ambassador Saarok, he thought, odd I do not remember coming to see an ambassador Saarok, as a matter of fact I do not remember who I am.

=/\=Computer who am I? =/\=

=/\=You are ambassador Saarok, chief diplomat for the united federation of planets on SB Assailant. =/\=

Me, ambassador Saarok, it would be logical to assume that I am the man the computer speaks of, but why don’t I remember that?

=/\=Computer show me the way to sickbay=/\=

=/\=Follow the lights on the consoles=/\=

The reply came. As Saarok proceeded out of his office and proceeded to follow the lights displayed on the console on the walls of the star base. After a longer walk and a ride he arrived to the sickbay. As there did not appear to be anyone inside, Saarok asked the computer about a doctor and was able to activate the emergency medical hologram.

“Please state the nature of the medical emergency”, the doctor said as he took a tricoder

“I appear to suffer from a memory loss”

“I see”, the doctor said as he began scanning him, “any previous illnesses?”, he asked

“I do not remember”, Saarok said

“Hmm, this is interesting it appears you have suffered a strong electrical discharge to your head which caused the electrochemical memory pathway in your head to disperse, which is the cause to your memory loss”; the doctor said

“However your skills appear to be unaffected, only the memory of past events has been disrupted, which is quite strange, it appears as if someone erased only parts of your memory on purpose”, the doctor concluded after he was done with the scan

Saarok stood for a moment he could not remember who he was, not who would find him a threat, he couldn’t even remember his access code for his personal quarters not to mention for anything else.

“Is there a way for you to restore those links?”, Saarok asked

“I’m afraid not, but with your Vulcan physiology I would estimate that you will be able to get your memory back part by part in time, and in time you will most likely have your complete memory back, you were lucky it could have ended much, much worse”, the doctor said

“When will I get my memory back?”

“I do not know it will take time, and different parts could be triggered by familiar places, and people.”, the doctor finished

“Do you know who is in command of this Star Base?”, he asked

“Of course, Admiral Magellan Lin”, the doctor responded

“Thank you doctor”, Saarok said as he left sickbay

“He noticed some odd creatures flying around him and sending him some mental images he could not percept, he did not know why they did not bother him he even felt he had seen them before but he could not remember from where nor how.

After a long walk around the station in an attempt to remember something which failed, he returned to his office and attempted to retrieve some data on himself but found it all classified except what the computer already told him, and there did not appear to be any files on his current work.

Off: Before Magellan has his staff meeting

He decided it was time to contact the admiral and speak to him. After again asking the directions from the computer he found his way to the office of Admiral Magellan. And chimed, he heard enter from the admiral as he entered the office.

“Admiral, I hope I am not disturbing you “, Saarok asked

<Magellan>

After the initial greeting Saarok began to tell Admiral Magellan all that happened including that he could not find any files on his computer and that he does not remember anything not even his access codes.

<Magellan>

[Magellan Lin]

Off: Before Magellan has his staff meeting

He decided it was time to contact the admiral and speak to him. After again asking the directions from the computer he found his way to the office of Admiral Magellan. And chimed, he heard enter from the admiral as he entered the office.

“Admiral, I hope I am not disturbing you “, Saarok asked

"Well I am due in a meeting in" he glanced at the time "5 minutes. But go ahead."

After the initial greeting Saarok began to tell Admiral Magellan all that happened including that he could not find any files on his computer and that he does not remember anything not even his access codes.

"Ah, quite a problem. And I gather you dont even recall me."

"No"

"I see. Well for now I think your best bet is to remain in Sickbay - I will get Healer T'Val come and give you a second opnion. I suggest you rest and try and slowly reacquaint yourself with your surroundings. Start with your quarters and then have someone show you your office. Small steps. Zoilip here will escort you to T'Vals"

Magellan ushered Saarok out and after informing Zoilip headed to his meeting.

[Deleted]

Richard Jibb walked out of Magellan's office and started walking back to his quarters on Assailant. It had been a very frustrating time. He had been requested to keep an eye on Drolem Simeth, and he had been trying to track down Sonev as well.

However, Mayor Simeth seemed to spend most of his time in his office, or going about official duties. The only unusual happening was a visit from Saarok, a fate Jibb wouldn't wish on anyone. If Simeth were up to something, it looked like he had been tipped off already.

Sonev was even more elusive. Contrary to what he had told Magellan, Richard thought that he might have occasionally been able to get close to the supposed Starfleet operative. Richard had talked to a few people on the station who seemed to remember Sonev, but further checking always lead to a dead end. It was almost like Sonev knew he was getting close and slipped away, playing with him.

Magellan's news that he was going to reopen the station to shipping had made Richard depressed. Assuming Sonev was still on the station, which was unlikely, he could easily slip out during the mass movement that would begin as soon as ships started moving in and out of Assailant.

On the other hand, there was an increased security presence at all entry and exit access points and they all had Sonev's description so he might still be caught. However, bolting at the first opportunity was the mistake of an amateur, and Sonev seemed to be anything but that.

The door to his quarters slid open. Richard walked in, sat down at his desk and checked the time. 9:17. 43 minutes till the port was opened. Accessing his computer, Richard took a look at the scans that his holographic doctor had managed to take of Sonev aboard the Wanderer. It was really the only proof he had that Sonev even existed.

Human male, 1.8 meters tall. Excellent health. No implants. That described approximately 10000 people aboard Assailant. There was nothing else to go on.

Lacking anything better to do, Richard picked up some gear and headed out. It was time to get back to keeping an eye on Drolem Simeth.

[Deleted]

"I advise you to be more careful in the future Mister Duvall," T'Val told her patient, as she closed her medical tricorder. "You may want to try to climb trees that are less tall and have thicker branches next time," she added.

Duvall chuckled; as if that was ever going to happen. "Yes doctor, thank you doctor," he said dutifully, and left sickbay as he pulled his tunic over his head and thrust his arms into the sleeves. "Until next time doctor," he whispered.

T'Val put her tricorder away and went to tend to other patients. She looked up when she heard her name being called. To her surprise, she saw Magellan's aide Zoillip enter sickbay, leading Ambassador Saarok to one of the biobeds.

"Something is wrong with him doctor," the aide called, "he's been babbling all the way up here. He cannot remember who or what he is. He will not even pay attention to these flying creatures of his!"

"Leave him on the bio bed Mr Zoillip, I will have a look at him in a moment. Thank you."

The aide bowed lightly and turned to leave sickbay.

T'Val sighed and picked up the tricorder again. "Well Mr Saarok," she started, "you seem to have gotten yourself in quite some trouble again." She gazed at the golden firelizard who sat hissing at her on Saarok's shoulder. "Oh be quiet you," she told the creature, "can you not see I am trying to take care of him?"

She pointed at a diagnostic board. "There take up a perch there, until I can be certain what is wrong with him." Both the blue and the gold took up perch where she pointed, but neither let her out of their field of vision and neither ceased hissing at her.

T'Val turned back to Saarok. "Mr Saarok," she started again, "do tell me what has happened? I would rather not mind meld with you in this state, as it is dangerous to both of us." She ran the tricorder over him. "You were hit by some kind of energy weapon, and by the looks of these readings I assume your system took quite a jolt. What do you remember so far?"

[Deleted]

“The time is 0800 hours,” the crisp cool voice of the computer announced throughout Paul and Joanna Drew’s sleeping chamber, the room was still in darkness, and the only reply the computer got was the groans of an Admiral trying to wake up.

“Computer, lights, full intensity,” Joanna said, as she slipped out of bed and wrapped herself in her dressing gown, again Drew groaned as the bright lights further ruined his sleep.

“Get up lazy,” Joanna commanded; pulling the covers off her husband, “You have a meeting in under an hour.”

Knowing he had lost the battle, and in regards to his wife, the war, Drew pulled himself up out of bed, “I am up, I am up,” he told his wife, as he saw her approach with a glass of ice cold water.

“Good,” Joanna replied, lending forward and kissing her husband, “now go to work.”

“Some wives like to have their husbands home all the time,” Drew complained as he entered the sonic shower.

“I already have three children to look after,” Joanna retorted, “I don’t need a fourth.”

“I don’t know,” Drew, answered, with a smile, as he stepped out the bathroom, zipping up his uniform jacket, “Having a fourth could be fun.”

The response was a pillow thrown in his face, closely followed by a “dream on space-boy.”

Some toast, and a cup of tea later, Drew was on his way to the briefing room, nodding politely at the officers he passed, he had been on Assistant a few months now, and was finally starting to recognise most of the station personnel on sight. On his ship’s, Drew had prided himself on knowing each crewmember, but a ship’s crew was only a few hundred, a thousand a most, Starbases had a lot more.

Entering the briefing room, he found many of the department heads had already gathered, seconds after the door closed behind Drew, it again opened to admit Commander Abren, the Strategic Operations Officer.

“Welcome Admiral, Commander,” Magellan greeted them both from the head of the table, “please take your seats.”

[Magellan Lin]

“Good Morning, if everyones got their coffees and raktajinos, we’ll begin”
There was a general murmur of assent and Magellan pressed on.
“Okay first off the Maintenance Schedule. Lieutenant can you focus on Decks 36 and 122, I ve had a few complaints about fluctuating EPS conduits.”
Alari nodded making a note on his PADD.
“Abren, the Debrune colonists will be here soon, they will be arriving on two colony ships, the USS Roamer and USS T’sol. You need to liase with headquarters to arrange security. Escort duty will be ours the minute they enter our system. Tomlinson I want you to provide that escort cover. Which leads me to the next point. I ve put into command for a wing of Federation Fighters. Given our recent problems with pirates I feel a number of small combat vessels maybe necessary. Lieutenant Tomlinson is Flight Rated so will head up pilot selection and liaison for the time being. F’Rass anything we need to know?”
The Regulan licked a paw and smoothed his fur before informing the crew that they were expecting 16 starships during the day, 10 trade vessels of various races, a Vulcan science ship, a tholian nest ship, 4 Federation Vessels and a Niberite Cruiser.
“Thank you Commander. Now I have some disturbing news, it appears Ambassador Saarok has lost his memory, we are unsure yet if it was a hostile act so I wont you to keep an eye on it Tomlinson, until then Ambassador Jatira of New Fabrini will be the bases senior Federation Diplomat.” Magellan paused to take a sip of his drink
“Moving on We’ve been asked by Command to do some research on the Nebula, I felt a preliminary survey would help and so I would like the base science team to take out the Copenhagen and take a few scans. Now I’m not happy with leaving the ship in the care of the scientists so I m putting Admiral Drew in Command. I think I can trust you to bring her back in one piece”
“That you can” Drew nodded and then with a wry smile added “There have been far fewer ships named Fang than there have been Victory”
Magellan grinned back
“Indeed there have and you can blame Locutis for that not me, if he could trash a ship in the course of a mission he would”
“Ah the good old days”
“Indeed, I’ll leave bridge crew selection to you and you might consider inviting some of the diplomats, give ‘em a ride outside to brighten their dull days”
“Keep ‘em out of your way you mean”
“Yes but that doesn’t leave this room” Magellan grinned, “Okay last on the agenda is the Security report, any update on the search for Sonev?”

<Tomlinson>

With all departments briefed Magellan closed the meeting and let them all get on with their jobs. He himself had to go and inform Jatira of her new status. He walked briskly down to the Federation Embassy and waited politely in the reception while an office worker buzzed Jatira to let her know he was there…

[Deleted]

Tomlinson had smiled at the mention of the fighter wing. He had already known about it, but it was nice to her it mentioned in some official capacity. In fact, he knew that the wing had been approved, and was being flown in within the week, the main thing holding it back at the moment was the choice of pilots, something that Tomlinson was still pondering over. Having checked on the transport's arrivals dates, he knew it was something he would have to hurry up to make sure that they fighter's beat the tranpsorts to the station, otherwise the escort in would be very sparce, a few shuttles at best; not much to take pirates on with.

"Sonev. No, he seems to be on of those that has disappeared. As you all know, this starbase is nearly 50 cubic kilometres. Even with my whole security team searching, it would take months to find him, and that's if he doesn't manage to gain access to transporters and beam to part of the station we have already checked. I doubt we will ever find him again. I'll have a talk with some of the less reputable people on the station and see if they know anything, but most of them bolt on seeing me, let alone letting me get close enough for a chat. So no, nothing to report on that front. On a side note though, crime rates are up 15% since the incident with the reactor, I can't see any reason for it, but we are trying to drop them back down again."

After he had given his report, Tomlinson looked back at Magellan, who said a few more words, and then brought the meeting to a close. The security officer stifled a yawn, and then started the walk through the station to his office, where he would get to work on the pilot choice once more.

[Deleted]

Leaving the meeting, Drew headed for Ops, part of his daily duties was to ensure that all system operations were functionally properly, and assign repair/maintenance teams as required. Drew also had to check through the requests from any ship’s docked at the base, and arrange the maintenance schedule for each ship. That task also often involved arguing with countless Captain’s about their ship’s not having high enough priority, or the Captain wanting something extra for his ship. After working his way though all that, Drew was then required to deal with the various reports and such he received from Starfleet Command. Although command of Assailant, and all Section 47 Operation’s in the area was Magellan’s, Drew was still an Admiral, and even out on deep space, Admiral’s couldn’t escape all the bureaucracy of Starfleet Command. Officially apart of Starfleet Command Operations, Drew was often required to review new ship designs, and in some cases, provide the shipyards with new design specifications.

Once all that was done, and providing nothing unexpected happened, which was always expected on Assailant, Drew would then be free to deal with anything else that might pop up. And after he had completed all of today’s work, Drew would be going down to inspect the Copenhagen, and approve her mission ready. It had been some years since Drew had commanded a Starship, and he had to admit, he was looking forward to stepping onto that bridge for the first time. Of course, Drew also had to find various Ambassadors on the station, and formally invite onto the mission as observers, the exploration of this area was to be as important as the colonisation project going on, and so it seemed logical to continue the spirit of co-operation Assaliant had between the galactic powers.

Calling up onto his screen, the first of his repair logs, Drew started to count down the hours until he could escape to the small ship in the docking port.

[Deleted]

<not sure if I was supposed to be at the meeting....so I'll move past that>

Tedak walked up to Drew's office, after he was sure the meeting was over. The Romulan diplomat avoided meetings, especially Starfleet ones, as much as was possible. His private shuttle still needed repairs, and he had planned to tale T'Val and D'Beren on a little vacation soon, if time allowed; or at least for a little tour around the system.

"Admiral, a moment of your time please," The Romulan called after the admiral, who quickly disappeared into his office. "Admiral, might I enquire after the status of repairs on my shuttle? I am planning a little break for me and my family and I will need my vessel for that."

In the air, the two firelizards performd their usual aeairial antics, before settling on Drew's desk, peering at the human intently.

"Leave him alone," Tedak told the duo, "go to T'Val. I need a moment of privacy with the admiral. Do not inform T'Val of my location."

The duo chirped and winked out. "There, that is better. Sometimes, firelizards can be a real nuicance, especially when you like some privacy."

[Deleted]

Richard sat quietly in The Forge. It was a little restaurant on Deck 79, and it's only claim to fame was that nothing ever happpened there. He had been spending some time here recently, trying to stay out of everyone's eye.

Richard had been in the centre of the action far too many times recently, and was getting concerned that his anonymity on the station would be compromised. It would be harder to gather information when the people who had it ran if he walked into the room. Richard had been sitting quietly in a place not long ago when that Security character Tomlinson walked in. The courier had rarely seen a place clear out so fast.

Richard returned to his meal and thought about the two problems he had on his plate right now. Drolem Simeth and Palan Sonev. Both were at a standstill right now. Sonev was invisible, and Simeth was being the best little mayor that he could be right now. If Simeth was up to anything, he had taken a break.

On the other hand, Richard had heard that Simeth wasn't necessarily a good little mayor. There were some rumours that he was somehow mixed up with the pirates that were in the area. And Richard had seen first hand that those pirates had some kind of informant inside the station. The mayor did have some access to inside information, and would know who to talk to to get other information.

Richard started idly drawing designs in his dinner. Simeth was a carrot in the middle of his plate. He moved pile of mashed potatoes underneath the carrot, which represented whatever network of informants that Simeth probably had. Then he place a chunk of steak above the carrot for the pirates and sat back. Information flowed to Simeth, and it went out to the pirates. Money flowed from the pirates to Simeth, who distributed some to informants. It was a classic pattern, but Richard wasn't happy with it.

Richard had known a fair number of pirates over his years in the backwaters of known space, and one thing they didn't do very well was cooperate, unless they were very organized. That didn't seem to be the case around Assailant. Richard quickly ate the rest of the steak and replaced it with a long green bean. That was more like it. Simeth gives his information to one pirate group.

Richard still wasn't happy. It was obvious there were several pirate groups operating in and around the nebula. He dropped several more beans into his configuration, all pointing accusingly at the Simeth carrot. That was more like it. Simeth was working with more than one group, feeding them information for money, or whatever it was the Mayor was asking for in return.

Richard shook his head and wondered if this was the way the Mayor had wanted things to go. If this was even remotely close to what was going on, Simeth was walking a narrow line. Pirates weren't forgiving by nature, and Starfleet Security didn't have much of a sense of humour when it came to informants.

"You know, my seven year old plays with his food less than you do" a raspy voice declared. Richard looked up to see Triv Darcal, the owner, standing over him. Richard secretly suspected that nothing ever happened here as no one liked being near this human. Without speaking, Richard pushed his plate over and the man picked it up and walked away.

What Richard needed was information and he couldn't find any. If Simeth had informants on the station, they weren't talking, and he couldn't question the pirates. However, the Mayor had to contact them somehow.

Deciding on his next step, Richard paid his bill and started making his way to the Federation Diplomatic offices.

[Magellan Lin]

"Ah Admiral Ambassador Jatira Can see you now" The receptionist answered looking up from her desk.
"Thankyou" Magellan smiled.
He walked round the desk and in to a good sized and well decorated office.
"Ambassador" he smiled extending a hand
"Admiral, please" she answered taking the hand and offering him a seat.
"A nice place you have here"

<Jatira>

"Well its lovely especially given the short time that youve been here. What I really came here to tell you concerns Saarok."

<jatira>

"It seems Saarok has lost his memory."

<Jatira>

"We are unsure if its permanent or not, or even if it was a malicious act or an accident. Nevertheless it has left Saarok in an unfit state to run the Embassy. I need you to fill in."

<Jatira>

"Well think it over, I ll help as best I can. You maybe interested to know Admiral Drew is taking the Copenhagen out for a spin in to the Nebula, he d be more than happy for you to accompany him."

Err Tag Jatira LOL

[Deleted]

Jatira was busy at work with the preparations for the arrival of the colonists. Everyone had been busy that week getting security ready and all of those necessary little details for such an event.

She was especially busy herself with paperwork and did not immediately realize when the Admiral stepped through her door. When she looked up, she stood up quickly and offered him a seat, wondering why he was visiting.

Magellan said:

"A nice place you have here"

"Why, thank you, sir," she said. "I haven't had much time to decorate with all the work recently, but I'm pleased that you like it."

Magellan said:

"Well its lovely especially given the short time that youve been here. What I really came here to tell you concerns Saarok."

Her smile disappeared when she saw the serious look on the Admiral's face. Whatever it was about Ambassador Saarok, it wasn't very good. She asked the first thing that popped into her head. "Is there something wrong with the Ambassodor? Is he not well?"

Magellan said:

"It seems Saarok has lost his memory."

She frowned again. Yes, the Ambassor was not well and it was even worse than she had imagined. She began to suspect why the Admiral came to her. Obviously with Saarok's injury (which she assumed was the cause), he would be unable to fullfill his duties as Ambassodor and the Admiral probably wanted her to help fill this gap. The Admiral then continued:

Magellan said:

"We are unsure if its permanent or not, or even if it was a malicious act or an accident. Nevertheless it has left Saarok in an unfit state to run the Embassy. I need you to fill in."

"Understood, sir," she nodded, expecting this response. I am certain that you are aware that my experience is very limited, but I am willing to do what I can," she said firmly. The Admiral's words rang through her head, malicious act or an accident. She hoped that it wasn't the former, because she disliked the idea of such a person loose on board the station. If someone was willing to attack Saarok, who knows what other trouble they may try to stir up.

Magellan said:

"Well think it over, I ll help as best I can. You maybe interested to know Admiral Drew is taking the Copenhagen out for a spin in to the Nebula, he d be more than happy for you to accompany him."

"Hmm, going on for a spin to the Nebula? Sounds interesting and perhaps a nice change from my usual work," she smiled. "May I ask why Admiral Drew wishes for me to accompany him?"

Tag: Magellan

[Deleted]

After setting his dispute with Admiral Drew, Tedak's attention shifted to a meeting earlier, one he had not been present at. "I heard you are taking the Copenhagen out," he commented, "would it be possible for me to attend the mission you are taking her on? I am sure T'Val will agree that her business with the Debrune, and my duties come before going on a little vacation."

< Drew >

"Well, that's settled then, thank you admiral."

< Drew >

After waiting patiently for Drew to finish, Tedak went to see his wife in sickbay. He found her feeding their son, and he walked up to them. "My wife," he said formally, holding out two fingers to her, "are you well?"

T'Val looked up, surprised to see such formality from her husband. Then she remembered they were in a public place and they had agreed to Vulcan customs in public places upon marriage. She reached out and briefly touched his outstretched fingers with two of her own. "My husband," she replied, "yes I am well. D'Beren is doing well also." She stood and placed the toddler into his crib. "Walk with me," she continued, and led him to a bed that had Saarok lying on it.

"He came in with memory loss," she explained, "he barely remembers who and where he is. His firelizards are in a frenzy, Nut and Sev communicate anxiousness and fright. Especially the golden one is distressed and she will not let me near Saarok."

Tedak nodded and held out his hand. "Aeris," he called, but the Queen did not respond. "Nut, do please ask her to come to me," he instructed his own brown. THe brown firelizard chirped and reluctantly the golden female came to his hand. "Aeris, we worry for your friend. You must let T'Val near, will you let us near? We promise we will try to help him."

The gold crooned anxiously but did nothing to stop them when they approached Saarok. Tedak shook him gently. "Saarok, wake up."

The Vulcan ambassador opened his eyes and sat up, looking rather dazed. "Where am I?"

"Sickbay," Tedak replied, "my friend, I believe it is time that I repay a favour you've done me. Give me your hand, but you must assist me. Do you remember how to perform a mind-meld? If not, T'Val will assist us."

Saarok looked at him questioningly. "Who are you?"

"I am Tedak," the Romulan replied, "T'Val please assist."

T'Val moved forward, and placed her right hand on Saarok's temple, while placing her left on Tedak's. The three of them stood motionless for a moment, after which T'Val released them.

"Thank you my wife," Tedak said softly, then turned to Saarok. "Do you remember now?"

<Saarok>

[Magellan Lin]

"Hmm, going off for a spin to the Nebula? Sounds interesting and perhaps a nice change from my usual work," she smiled. "May I ask why Admiral Drew wishes for me to accompany him?"

Magellan smiled, abundantly aware that Jatira was certainly more one of the more astute Ambassadors aboard.

"Its not so much a case of wish, more a courtesy. Ambassadors Tedak and Kaskrene, in fact all the diplomats will be invited. Consider it a day out. A low risk mission upon which you can interact with the other delegates."
"I see, anything more?"
Magellan smiled again, an unerringly odd grin, one that spoke of someone whose hand had been caught in the cookie jar.
"Well." he paused "I m a Starfleet Admiral, I can't directly request anything of an Ambassador, but it would be very interesting to find out the Romulan Star Empires unoffical stance on the Debrune returning to this sector. Oh I know they deny they are debrune, that it means very little, but I suspect many do in fact listen to Tedak reports, and he for one is better placed than most to know the Debrune for what they are."
"Are you asking me to spy on Ambassador Tedak"
"Great Pools No!" Magellan exclaimed, "BUt if the conversation happens to turn that way then... I ll leave it up to you. Good day Ambassador."
"Admiral."

[Deleted]

Richard walked into the Federation Diplomatic receiving area and looked around. There was a human female sitting behind the main desk, who was looking at him expectantly. Richard strode up to her and said "I need an office that has access to the Starbase Main Computer."

She nodded quickly and pressed a button on the desk and spoke briefly into the comm. After a minute, a young human walked out and escorted Richard to a small office with a nice open viewport showing Qualinost. Richard watched the man leave, then sat behind the desk and activated the console. "Connect to main Assailant Main Computer. Authorization Ambassador Richard Jibb, Delta Epsilon 4 Blue 5 9."

"Working...Complete" the computer replied.

"Show me all comm traffic in and out of Starbase Assailant for the last two weeks" Richard ordered.

"Your authorization does not allow you to view Starfleet communications or comm traffic coded personal" the computer reported.

"Fine, show me what I am allowed to see." Information started scrolling and after several minutes, he still hadn't seen all the traffic for the first day. Richard quickly found an appreciation for how much communications 100 000 beings could generate. He would never find anything like this.

"Computer. Stop comm signal review and access biographical record for mayor Drolem Simeth, and include any records that Simeth has down in Security" Richard said. The requested records displayed and Jibb settled in to read. The answer might be here somewhere.

[Zhukarak Hrisvalar]

Marine Captain Zhukarak Hrisvalar was on station. The Nevada had docked and was undergoing standard maintenance checks. Captain Jira was also going to be looking for a few more officers, before the next mission took place.

Zhukarak had one primary goal for today, but first he had to locate some temporary quarters. Walking through the starbase always afforded with a chance for observation and scrutiny of its inhabitants. Everyone always seemed like they had a place to be…two minutes ago. To the untrained it seemed like a frantic world. In fact, it was what Zhuk liked to call ‘Controlled Chaos’.

He finally reached his quarters. Zhuk proceeded to stow his gear, but not before he pulled out his dress uniform. Afterall, if he was going to see THE ADMIRAL with a request, he was going to have to make an impression.

Freshly dressed, he was ready to see Admiral Lin.

Marine Captain Hrisvalar made his way to the command deck, where most of the command staff and diplomats offices were located.
Zhuk approached the secretary, “Is Admiral Lin available for a short visit?”

“Let me find out for you.” After which she activated her comm link to the Admirals office.

=/\= Sir! There is a Marine Captain wishing to see you. =/\=

=/\= Send him in. I have a couple of minutes I can spare. =/\=

“Go right ahead.” The secretary pointed in the direction of the Admiral’s door.

Zhukarak proceeded to the door with a “Thank you.”

After two quick knocks, Zhukarak entered and wasn’t sure if he should salute or not. He decided he needed to.

“Sir! If I may, I have a request that will hopefully benefit the both of us.”

The Admiral looked at Zhukarak with a slight smile, and motioned for him to sit down. “At ease Captain. Please have a seat. If I’m not mistaken, weren’t you involved in the recent capture of Dr. Kavek?”

Zhukarak became as comfortable as he allowed himself to before the Admiral.

“Yes sir. It was my team that was sent out to capture him. As you well know, he eluded us on planet and Captain Jira was able to maneuver the Nevada to force the doctor to land on board.” Zhukarak didn’t want to take any credit where there was none to be taken.

The Admiral looked thoughtful before he replied. “Ah yes. Nonetheless, you helped force Dr. Kavek to make a move and it resulted in his capture. Well done! Now! What can I help you with, or myself, since you stated that it was mutually beneficial?”

Zhukarak sat straight up and made his proposal. “Admiral, it is my understanding that you are about to form a new fighter wing, here on Starbase Assailant. I would be honored and grateful if I was allowed to help in that endeavor. I would like to be assigned for temporary duty as a fighter pilot. I am a qualified marine pilot, and I can help in the instruction of new pilots on flying space patrols. I do not, however, wish to assume the commanding officer’s position. I will gladly follow the orders of any commander that you so choose, regardless of rank. I do hope that I would be allowed to help as I have already stated. If the CO objects to this, I would then simply request that I be allowed to remain as a pilot. I’m sure that I can at least help fill a fighter pilots seat.”

“I’m assuming that you have Captain Jira’s permission.”

“Yes sir! I wouldn’t be here without it.”

The Admiral looked at Zhukarak, and simply said “Mmmh.”

It was obvious that he was going through the logistics of this request.

Zhukarak was waiting patiently…

[Magellan Lin]

"Well Mr Hrisvalar" Magellan said presently, fingers steepled beneath his chin, "Normally staff are asked to take part, however I see no problem in requesting an assignment. It at least means that I have someone enthusiastic in the role. Additionally as the Nevada will be in drydock for awhile it would be prudent to make use of your talents in that time."
"So thats a yes then?"
"Yes it is. I already have a Squadron CO- Our Chief of Security will be in charge of running the wing although our Strat Ops Officer will also be involved. At present we have only very basic outlines and as yet no pilots. The actual Fighters will not be arriving for a few days."
"And where will I fit in?"
"I d like you to be as you suggested an Instructor and in addition to that work with Lieutenant Tomlinson and Commander Abren in all aspects of the wings development. Whilst your at it you could also lend your marine talents to helping station security, perhaps a series of training exercise, get our staff into shape?"
"That would be fine sir."
"Excellent, welcome to the team" Magellan stood and extended a hand that Zhukharak grasped and shook firmly.
"with the Nevada in dock - will you be requiring additional quarters on the station?"

[Deleted]

When Saarok did not respond to Tedak's question, the Romulan looked past his friend at his bondmate. They took no notice of the humming of the four firelizard, assuming that it was just an expression of their distress.

"Perhaps we should take him to his office," Tedak suggested, supporting his friend as he spoke to T'Val.

"I was just about to suggest the same," she replied, taking hold of Saarok's other arm. "Come on ambassador, please walk with us."

Silently, the Vulcan ambassador walked with his friends to his office. Above them, four firelizards were engaged in their usual antics but the humming didn't cease. The trio arrived at the Vulcan's office, and the firelizard humming increased in volume, as they settled near a particular part of the office.

Curiously, Tedak walked over to the firelizard, then cried out in amazement. "T'Val look!" he called, pointing at a clutch of approximately thirty eggs. He tapped his combadge, knowing instantly who he should call.

"Tedak to Magellan, come to Saarok's office immediately. If there is someone with you, bring him or her. This is important and haste is required."

Apparently, Magellan had been close by because within a minute the Trill admiral marched into the office, followed by the Andorian Marine called Zhukarak Hrisvalar.

Tedak had already gone to the nearest replicator, but he didnt return soon enough. A golden creature had already hatched, and when there was no food about, she went between <to Qualinost> A bronze and a couple of browns and greens followed her.

When the Romulan returned, a bronze had just hatched. He snatched the bronze hatchling and placed it in Magellan's hand, then dropped a few slices of meat in his other hand. "Feed it," Tedak urged, "make him want to stay with you."

He snatched a blue hatchling and shoved it in Zhukarak's hands and repeated the instructions. By now more had hatched and T'Val had managed to attract a green.

To the side, Saarok stood gazing blankly and Tedak turned to him. "Come on my friend, this is a joyous occasion. Your golden one is a mother! Well...to some extend."

By now, save from three hatchlings, the rest had followed the young queen to Qualinost. T'Val sat on the desk carefully petting the tiny green. Beside her, Nut and Sev were crooning, their eyes whirling a mix of green and blue. Aeris had landed on Saarok's shoulder and was seeking attention. The blue was nowhere to be found.

"What are you going to name them?" Tedak asked

"I do not know yet," T'Val replied, "I will have to see what this one has for personal traits before I name her."

[Zhukarak Hrisvalar]

"With the Nevada in dock - will you be requiring additional quarters on the station?"

“Yes sir. I will require officer quarters near the flight deck. I have stowed my gear in some temporary quarters, not knowing if I was going to get this assignment. I thank you for this opportunity and I will bring honor to this station.”

When Zhukarak was done with his thanks, Adm Lin’s comm lit up, upon which his presence was requested immediately, to include anyone else that was present.

Adm Lin motioned for Zhuk to follow. Walking through a couple of adjacent corridors, they had arrived at their destination.

Zhukarak couldn’t believe his eyes. There were these firelizard creatures again. He had remembered one of them in particular.

Zhuk announced “That was the creature that accompanied me during the apprehension of Dr. Kavek.”

No sooner did he say that, when a smaller version of these creatures was shoved into his hands. “Feed it. Make him want to stay with you.” Were the instructions.

Zhuk didn’t know what to do, other than to comply. He proceeded to give this little firelizard pieces of the meat that was available.

The firelizard that he had recognized, Sev, had also recognized him and gave Zhuk an approving look.

[Deleted]

Standing up and stretching his arms and legs slightly, Tomlinson stepped over to his beeping comm station. When he hit the button, Admiral Magellan appeared on screen.

"Ah, Admiral, what can I do for you?" he asked jovially, having just sorted out the complete pilot's roster. The majority were trained pilots from Mars, but a good number would need training up on base.

"I've just recruited a pilot for you." The admiral stated with a smile as if to say that he was doing the security officer a favour.

"Oh?"

"A Marine Captain Zhukarak Hrisvalar. You may remember that he helped out with the Kavek incident?"

"I remember, an andorian if my memory serves me correctly. But doesn't he serve on the Nevada?"

"It's in drydock for a while, so he's requested a temporary tour of duty over here. Anyway, I've got to rush, Magellan out."

Tomlinson sighed. Of course, it was great getting another pilot in, and from what he had read of the andorian's record, he wasn't a bad flyer either. It would have been nive to have found out about it a bit earlier though. He would now have to get rid of someone he had already selected to include the andorian.

A few minutes later, and he had sorted it out, and was on his way down to one of the newly installed fighter bays. The station had two, one on either side, and Tomlinson was soon standing in the larger of the two. Looking around, he saw that the whole bay was prepped for the fighters, with spare parts already cluttering the massive room.

[Deleted]

Sev stared at the blue person with the odd spikes on his head. The little bronze noted the blue man's excitement, and chirped as he got a little blue shoved in his hands. He had recognized the man, and chirped approvingly, then launched himself to settle on Tedak's shoulder and nuzzled his face.

Nut chirped too, but didn't move from Aeris' side. He fanned his wings as T'Val got a green and Magellan a bronze.

T'Val cradled the little green and cleaned her wings with the tip of her tunic while feeding the greedy little thing. She received images of intense hunger, love and need. "Yes I will care for you little one," T'Val whispered, the presence of the others totally forgotten. "Yade," she continued, "that will be your name. Your colour resembles jade, so bright green you are. Will you grow as strong as your sire?"

The green chirped and snatched yet another piece of meat from her hands, her eyes whirling green and blue. At last, she closed her eyes, and fell asleep in T'Val;s hands. "Truly a remarkable experience," T'Val commented, watching Zhukarak and Magellan look equally estaetic.

[Zhukarak Hrisvalar]

“Uhh, sir!” Captain Zhukarak Hrisvalar looked perplexed. “This, this, this beast is falling asleep. Should I put it down somewhere?”

Admiral Lin had a bemusing smile on his face.

T’Val approached the marine captain. “You are the one that Sev here decided to assist while capturing Dr. Kavek.” She had pointed to her bronze firelizard. “Let me tell you that Sev doesn’t usually get very close, much less go along with someone to another planet, with just anyone.” “It seems that he senses a very honorable man in you.”

Zhukarak reflected on his past career in the Imperial Guard, and now with Starfleet. He had always served with pride. He always wanted to ensure that the people above him could trust in his abilities, and that the people under his command would follow his example in a willing manner. He never asked anyone to do anything that he wasn’t willing to do himself.

“It must be you that is honorable, for he is bonded to you.” Zhuk gave a slight bow of respect to T’Val. “I am Zhukarak Hrisvalar and I am honored to be in your presence.”

“Why thank you. I am T’Val. I think we all here walk along the same path.” “Back to the ‘little beast’, as you called it. He is a firelizard. I think it would be great, and I would be honored, if you were willing to adopt him. I’m sure you remember how helpful and resourceful Sev was to you. Imagine what a companion this little blue one will make when he is bonded to you. He will guard you with his life and, if I may say so, blue seems to be a fitting color for you.”

Everyone gave a small laugh. Zhuk just smiled.

“I am humbled by your request. I will gladly adopt this firelizard. I do however have a proposal. I am here on temporary duty and will be very busy with the new fighter wing. I request that you continue in its care when I am not available. I’m sure he can still learn from being surrounded by his own kind. I will come and get him during my off duty time and perhaps take him along at times when duty permits.”

“That sounds agreeable. Now tell me, do you have a name for him?” T’val looked in wonderment.

Zhukarak was in deep thought. Then it came to him. “I shall call him Theel’zhiin. It means Guardian Sword.”