Shoreleave 95.1214: I'Kiith Hllue: A Diplomatic Br

[Deleted]

JP between Tevio and Tedak

ON:
He soon realised that Govan Echal wasn't just pretending to be asleep; he actually was. Out cold... the Intel officer thought, eyes boring pupil shaped holes in the man's softly rising, falling chest. He didn't think he'd ever be in this situation: standing over Commander Echal, the man defenseless in his forced unconsciousness, Tevio poised in his weighing of the possibilities. Would it be so easy, just to snap the well-built neck of the former Tal Shiar? Sudden realisation at the danger that his presence represented gave the Legate a momentary thrill, even though he knew that he'd be finished for it, and that security must surely be watching from somewhere in the room. momentary thrill, even though he knew that he'd be finished for it, and that security must surely be watching from somewhere in the room.

Eventually he sighed, averting his eyes and turning away. He traversed the sickbay to Ambassador Tedak's bed. First impression suggested Tedak to be asleep, but on closer inspection, he saw the slow flickering of the Romulan's eyelids. "Ambassador," he said, standing by and waiting for Tedak to come out of the delirium of sleep.

The diplomat's eyes opened, slowly focusing on the intelligence officer. “Legate Ch'varak,” he acknowledged drowsily, “what are you doing here?”

"Oh, you know," Tevio said. "I've been put in charge of the investigation and I need to know what happened in that ready room, as I'm sure you appreciate. If you could give me an outline.." he paused, seeing the expression forming on the Ambassador's face. "What?" he questioned.

“I've already given testimony to Lhoell,” the diplomat replied calmly, “but if you want an outline...” He sighed. “I tried to alleviate a tense situation by trying to get us to ... fight it out. Govan and I don't get along very well. The situation escalated and I tried to defend myself. I drew my dagger and stabbed at Govan, he overpowered me as he is much stronger than I, not to mention younger, and he stabbed me in return. I started it though, I challenged him, I struck first.” This was starting to get a little repetitive; how many times had he now admitted to guilt already?
"Interesting," Tevio said, and as a token gesture to fulfill the requirements of the situation wrote some notes on a datapad. Of course it was entirely unnecessary, the Legate retained the information in his head. It was what the Ambassador had first said that spiked his real interest. "You said... Lhoell?" he asked for confirmation, "When was that?"

“I don't remember, not too long ago though.” The older Romulan sighed. “Time's a jumble at the moment, I don't know how much time has passed since I first regained consciousness. I have sedative and stimulant alike in my system, I admit to feeling very...strange.” He looked up, his eyes regaining some focus. “I don't know when exactly he was here, but he questioned me.”

The strange-eyed Romulan stared up at Tevio. He returned the Ambassador's glare. Thoughts whirled within him, a mixture of distaste and annoyance but in an incoherent exploratory sense. So, he thought, Taev Lhoell already had the required information, and he could only accept Tedak's inferred claim that the same story had been told to the security man. But this isn't pertinent anymore... he thought angrily.

Tevio felt utterly incensed. He gritted his teeth, "Thank you for the information, Ambassador. However, next time a non-intel officer approaches requesting information on this, don't tell them    anything    . I don't care how groggy and confused you may be, you will speak to no one of this but me. This questioning confusion is Dor'vel's doing," he thought, effectively thinking aloud and talking to himself, even though he kept his eyes on Tedak, "A crewmember answers to no other than the commander or his department chief, in an Ambassador's case the latter doesn't apply. Dor'vel has no right to take command, let alone dictate interrogation procedure and constrict the Tal Diann's movements."

“Govan trusts Dor'vel,” Tedak replied after a long pause, “as do I. I don't trust you Tevio, and I doubt you trust me. Trust isn't a given, it must be earned. You have my word that I told you the truth on what happened. And if you doubt me, why don't you find us a telepath and have him draw the information from me. I don't answer to orders. I was well within my right to refuse to answer, but I did not. The truth must prevail, and it will. To lie would've been futile, it would've come out sooner or later. My honour is all I have legate, and I'll not waste it on an argument between Govan and myself.”

Tevio flicked his datapad's screen off, turning away in disgust. "Don't lecture me," he said as an afterthought. "I know I have the truth. It's the deception of Dor'vel that not only proves his ridiculous devotion to Echal, but is now soon to prove the catalyst for his removal."

What a sycophant, Tevio thought of Dor'vel as he left Tedak without even a nod of respect. As for his thoughts to the latter... Hmm.

Tedak stared after him until he was out of sight. “Nurse, warn Acting commander Dor'vel that trouble is afoot. Legat Ch'varak is aforementioned trouble. Have Tamir tell him if need be. Ch'varak is going to make trouble, I'm sure of it. For Govan's sake, warn Dor'vel.”

[tag nurse]

OFF:
Anyone can take the nurse NPC if they desire.

[Deleted]

Still in a bit of a daze following her conversation with Tedak, Tamir almost mindlessly went about her usual duties, restocking hypospray vials, organizing inventory, and calibrating medical scanners and equipment. It just didn’t see possible... Govan had never made a move, not once in the entire time they’d been together. He had never laid a hand on her or even made a comment that slightly suggested that he was interested. Sure, his actions indicated that he cared for her and protected her, but she had always felt they had been done the way family would, not a suitor. It just didn’t make sense...but then why had the Ambassador said that then? These questions ate away at the nurse’s mind while she numbly moved from task to task.

“Excuse me, Tamir?” an unexpected voice from behind her startled her so badly that she dropped the vial she was holding and nearly knocked over the whole tray.

Catching her breath, Tamir quickly steadied the tray and retrieved the vial. “I’m so very sorry. You startled me...” she stammered, fumbling to put the vial in its place.

“I apologize for that,” the woman quickly supplied. She was visibly nervous, and it was unusual that any of the medical staff would speak to Tamir at all except what was required for them to complete their jobs. “I did not mean to scare you, but I’ve just been told some information...” the nurse hesitated. She usually just did her job and stayed out of the politics that came with the higher ranked officers. “The Ambassador told me that Centurion Dor’vel needs to be warned that Lieutenant Ch’varak is out to cause trouble. He suggested that you could relay the message.”

“Oh...of course,” Tamir replied. “Thank you.” For a moment, she had been terrified that Tedak had repeated what he’d told her. “I’ll inform the Centurion immediately.”

Trying to shake off her nerves, the nurse moved into a nearby supply room where she could speak without being overheard. She didn’t quite understand the message, but she would relay what she was told and hope that it meant something to Dor’vel.

After requesting the Centurion’s location from the computer and confirming he was alone in the ready room, Tamir opened the channel. “Tamir to Dor’vel,” she began.

Bolting upright in surprise, Dor’vel actually stubbed his finger against the surface of the desk. Wincing but refusing to betray his clumsiness, the Centurion replied, “This is Dor’vel. Is something wrong?” he questioned with visions of Govan and Tedak destroying sickbay in an effort to kill the other, equipment flying, people hurt...

“Everything is fine here, but I have a message for you from Tedak. The Legate was here a few moments ago to speak with him, and after he left, Tedak said to warn you he’s out to cause trouble. I didn’t get any more than that. He wasn’t specific.”

Relaxing now, a hint of a smile playing around his lips as he got an image of Tevio figuring out that he’d been tricked, Dor’vel responded, “Thank you for passing that on to me. I appreciate it. As for Ch’varak, don’t worry too much. I can handle him.”

Also starting to relax, Tamir smiled softly. “Good. I don’t really know him, but I don’t like him,” she commented, not knowing what was going on but not worrying about it.

Grinning at her uncensored remark, Dor’vel shifted topics, glad that he’d managed to keep her from worrying. “How is Govan? I hope he is not driving you all crazy.”

A wry smile crossing her face, Tamir laughed. “No, he’s actually behaving himself. I sort of yelled at him a little before I realized the fight wasn’t his fault, so he was a bit more cooperative than usual.” Smile fading, the nurse asked, “Is he going to be alright? I mean, because of the fight. He seems to think it’s all over for him now.”

Hearing the worry in her voice, Dor’vel replied, “He is going to be just fine. Tedak backed up his story and seems intent on making this right, so I don’t think he has anything to worry about now. It looked bad initially, and without knowing what the Ambassador was going to say, he had every right to be concerned but not anymore.”

Sighing in relief, Tamir felt so much better. “Thank you, that’s good to hear. It’s not easy seeing him worried and down like that, but I guess he didn’t have all the facts.”

“He’ll bounce back as tough as ever in no time,” Dor’vel assured her. “I’ve got to get back to work now. Try to keep him out of trouble down there,” he teased her.

Still smiling, Tamir retorted, “I’ll do my best, Sir. But I won’t be held responsible if he manages to find a way to get into trouble anyway. I’m a nurse, not a miracle worker.”

“Noted, Dor’vel out,” he replied, closing the channel with the smile still on his face.

Troubles momentarily forgotten, Tamir cheerfully went back to work, still grinning.

[Deleted]

Moments after the channel closed, Dor’vel forced himself to get back to business. She hadn’t called just to talk after all. She’d called to warn him about Tevio, and he wasn’t about to ignore that. It wouldn’t be right or smart to do so. So once his mind was refocused correctly, he knew what he had to do. “Uhlan Lhoell, please report to the ready room,” the Centurion ordered, realizing that it was a bit unusual since Taev had just left a few minutes earlier, but this situation warranted a move.

<Tag Taev>

Once the officer was back inside the ready room, Dor’vel began straight away with what needed to be said. “I just had word from sickbay, and apparently, Lieutenant Ch’varak is less than pleased that we managed to speak with Commander Echal and the Ambassador before he did. I believe he will cause trouble, whether directly or clandestinely. So we need to be prepared, for whatever course of action he takes. We have to be even more cautious dealing with him than with Tedak, as he controls an entirely department, and monitoring his movements will certainly be detected.”

Pausing as if to carefully consider what he was about to say, the Centurion finally continued. “If he makes a move for command, his officers will stand behind him, just as our department, and I believe Commander Echal, will stand behind me. It hopefully won’t come to an all out battle over this, even if we have the advantage, but I think we should at least have an increased presence on the bridge. Nothing drastic, but at least three at all times, including you and me, and I believe the two of us should endeavor to remain on the bridge as much as we possibly can at least until Commander Echal returns to command. As a matter of fact, we should probably return there as soon as possible in case he arrives while we talk. Also, I think the department should be made aware of the potential for a challenge, so that they will be prepared to back us up should it come to that. You can never be too prepared.”

<Tag Taev>

“One last thing,” the Centurion began. “You’ve handled yourself well through this situation. Do not think that this has gone unnoticed. I will be sure to repeat this to Commander Echal when he returns. Your loyalty and service will not go unseen.”

<Tag Taev>

Once the two had completed their conversation, the security officers made their way back to the bridge. So far, no sign of the Legate, but he could appear at any moment, and knowing that put Dor’vel on edge. Unfortunately, that was exactly what Intelligence did, put people on edge, create pressure, trying to get people to slip up so they could catch them. And the Centurion was not about to give Tevio what he wanted. Taking a seat in the command chair, knowing Commander Echal, Taev, and the security department were behind him, the ‘Acting Commander’ felt secure, but it would be foolish to underestimate the Intelligence Officer. Whatever was to come, Dor’vel felt he was ready for it, but you could never be too certain…

<Tag Tevio/All>

~

Still feeling happy and secure following her talk with Dor’vel, Tamir completed a few routine duties before deciding to check on Govan. She was still feeling somewhat uncertain and uneasy following Tedak’s comments, but she’d decided to take them with a grain of salt and come to her own conclusions. After all, he’d never made a move of any kind, and until then, she could only take him on his actions and words.

In the other room, she found Govan sound asleep, which meant he was behaving himself. Smiling softly, Tamir gently brushed a few strands of hair from his forehead. Tedak had been right about one thing: she did love Govan, but not in a romantic way. She never would have imagined it possible, but he had become her family. It was more than just a close friend who was like a brother. Govan Echal felt like he was really her biological brother, her only family, and all that she had. No one ever would have predicted a civilian nurse and Tal Shiar Major (now Navy Commander) could have managed to get close enough to become family, but it had happened.

Repeating his name a few times, first very softly and gradually louder, Tamir finally had to reach out and shake his shoulder, gently at first and then a little harder to wake him. Finally, with a solid nudge, he stirred, swiping instinctively in her direction as if to bat away an insect. Fortunately, his groggy moves were clumsier than they normally would have been, dulled by sleep, and she was able to jump back out of the way. “Hey, take it easy,” she scolded lightly. “You could have knocked me out!”

Eyes flying open, Govan winced against the light and tried to get his bearings. At last identifying he was in sickbay, and Tamir was there, and fortunately unharmed, he grumbled, “Well you shouldn’t have pushed me like that…just say something.”

“I did,” Tamir retorted. “You must have been pretty deep asleep. I called your name at least half a dozen times before I started nudging you, and I didn’t start that hard!” Finally noticing the empty hypospray lying on the blanket next to his hand, Tamir frowned. “Govan...did you do this or did...” her words faded as she quickly reached for a scanner, suddenly worried about poisons or toxins or who knows what else.

Wincing as the events before his sudden slumber returned to him, Govan spoke up quickly. “Uh...actually, it was me. I just wanted to be left alone, and didn’t want to speak to that Intelligence pest, so I grabbed a sedative. I guess I got the dosage wrong, because I just wanted to relax to make it easier to pretend to be asleep, not actually be sedated.” Withering just a little bit under her glare, he added. “Sorry...”

Shaking her head and not happy, Tamir grabbed the hypospray and moved it out of his reach. “Govan Echal, you could have overdosed, not to mention left yourself open to attack from the ‘Intelligence pest.’ You should have known better than that.”

“Yes, Ma’am,” he grumbled, semi-definite and semi-apologetic. He hated how she could turn him into a schoolboy again just by glaring at him like that. It wasn’t fair...

A twitch of a smile crossed her lips at that. She loved his grumbly, grouchiness. It was endearing. “Well, just don’t do it again,” Tamir scolded. “And that is not why I came to talk to you. It’s about Tedak.” Undeterred by the glare that name earned, she continued. “It’s all going to be fine. He confessed to starting the whole thing, took full responsibility for it, and assured me that he will see that you are alright.”

That had been the last thing he expected to hear, and his mouth actually dropped completely open in surprise. “He didn’t...you mean...” he barely managed to get out.

Grinning at his shock, Tamir nodded. “Yup, you’re home free. It’ll all work itself out, and you’re not losing your command over this. I actually chewed Tedak out pretty good over this, although it turns out I really didn’t need to, as he’d already told the truth, but it made me feel better, then sorry. I demanded that he apologize to you, so don’t be too hard on him when he does. He feels terrible now, and knows that he made a mistake. He thought that maybe if you two worked through the tension with a fight, that it might make things better.” At Govan’s loud scoff, she glared at him. “I know...not the best idea, but his intentions were good, so give him a break.”

“Maybe…” Echal grumbled, before a slight smile crossing his face. “Eventually...”

“Do NOT make him suffer just for sport,” Tamir warned, trying not to smile at how his mood had suddenly turned around in an instant. “It’s not good form. I’ve been very impressed with how you’ve handled this for the most part, so don’t make me regret it.” Softening again, the nurse added, “But I’m glad this is all going to work out. I was pretty worried there for a little while, but you are going to be ok now…”

“I’m glad too,” he replied, hesitating before adding, “and Tamir? Thank you for being here for me through this whole thing. I really appreciate your support,” he offered.

“You’re welcome,” she replied, glancing around before dropping another quick kiss on his forehead, laughing at the scowl that produced. “Oh lighten up!” she teased.

Still scowling, Govan resisted the urge to smile back. “When can I get out of here?”

“I’m surprised it took you this long,” Tamir commented with a grin. “I’ll go get the doctor to answer that, but my guess is he’s surprised you haven’t made a run for it.”

“You made me promise not to...” Govan grumbled as she left to get Sural, finally allowing a hint of a smile to cross his face once Tamir was completely out of sight.

“Doctor,” Tamir began once she had located Sural. “I believe Commander Echal is ready to see if he can be released yet. He’s getting grumpier by the minute,” she commented dryly. “So I believe that I’ll leave that decision entirely up to you, Sir.”

<Tag Sural>

[Deleted]

“Doctor,” Tamir began once she had located Sural. “I believe Commander Echal is ready to see if he can be released yet. He’s getting grumpier by the minute,” she commented dryly. “So I believe that I’ll leave that decision entirely up to you, Sir.”

Sural nodded curtly,
"The commander has been ready to leave for sometime. It is his ship and does not need my say so to leave. In fact we had just such a discussion. I can only presume there is some reason he wished to stay longer"
Surprisingly he gave Tamir a little wink and moved over to where the Commander was sat.

"I hear you are ready to depart? I hope you enjoyed your time here" He said wryly, "The official discharge papers are here" he said handing the commander a PaDD.

TAG Govan

"I would like to say its been a pleasure to treat you. But in my experience treating a senior officer can be most dangerous for the attending physician. I am glad to have come through it generally unscathed. As for the Conference. My offer still stands. Now with you well you must excuse me to look in on our esteened diplomat."

TAG Govan

By the time Sural reached Tedak the Ambassador was already asleep. He busied himself by checking the mans vitals and running a number of full body scans. It occured to him that he had no data regarding the Ambassador and set about running a series of biometrics.

The Ambassador was in good health. There was evidence of previous injuries, healed bones and scar tissue but otherwise, and ignoring the recent injurires the man was as fit as a fiddle.

Taking up an extractor he rolled up the diplomats sleeve and withdrew a small sample of blood. Satisfied that he had completed a thorough medical he retreated to his lab whereupon he set about analysing the blood work. He had been expecting a standard match but was amazed at the findings.
He cross referenced them twice and ran the analysis tree times before leaning back his fingers steepled under his chin,
The Ambassador had the same markers in his blood as Tevio did. A thin smile spread over his lips. The field had suddenly opened up he now had two potential donors to consider.

[Deleted]

As it was, however, Tedak wasn't quite asleep. He held himself relaxed and still, though he was fully aware of Sural taking several scans of his body. Quietly, he wondered what was going on since he had been scanned several times already. And since he was relaxing, even drowsing a little on and off, and had been given several painkillers, he was more than happy to claim he wasn't in any pain, if only he was asked.

He held himself absolutely motionless, resisting the urge to yank back his arm as Sural rolled up his sleeve and drew a sample of his blood. ~what does he need my blood for~ he wondered idly. He was, after all, stabbed with his own Honour Blade. A blade of which it was commonly known not to be doused with any sort of poison or any other concoction. And he kept it clean too, so infection was certainly out of the question. That, and his medical records showed he'd managed to cut himself with his own dagger before, during practice or even other uses.

After all, did an Honour Blade not make the perfect tool for other applications? Such as prying open doors, or equipment to fix it if it wasn't working straight. Sure, it wasn't meant or even designed for such a use, but that didn't wholly exclude the capability.

He waited until Sural moved off, then stretched as if he was just waking up. Carefully, of course, as he didn't want to re-injure himself in the process. He still reasoned he'd been fortunate, that the wound was on his right side, so it didn't hinder him while doing things. Slowly, he worked himself up into a sitting position and then, when he was sure the room wouldn't start spinning, got to his feet. A dull throbbing was felt down his right arm and he couldn't move it right just yet, but he tried to ignore it.

Using any object he could find for balance, he walked a few tender paces. Surprisingly, no nurse thought to stop him, which suited him just fine. Casting a sideways glance to check whether Sural was paying attention to the main area of sickbay, Tedak gingerly shuffled his way to Govan's side of sickbay. He had promised Tamir hadn't he? And Tedak always was a man of his word, or at least did his best to be.

"Commander Echal?" he called softly, halting at the foot of the bed. He held his gaze downcast, his stance one of submission. He had been the wrong party here, he was a victim, sure but one of his own stupidity. Govan was the true victim. "I owe you an apology," he started, then held up his left hand to indicate he wasn't finished. "I have given my statement to both Ch'varak and Lhoell, and I'm taking full responsibility. You won't be blamed in any way, the blame is all mine. I started this."

He fell silent, steeling himself for a tirade. He still didn't meet Govan's gaze, though after a while, he did look up. "I am, truly, sorry," he added softly, while taking hold of the foot of the bed, keeping himself steady as he spoke, "and I am quite relieved that I didn't injure you too badly. I had no intention of hurting you."

[Govan/Sural]

[Deleted]

"I hear you are ready to depart? I hope you enjoyed your time here," Sural stated dryly as he handed Govan a data padd. "The official discharge papers are here."

“Hmph,” was the only verbal acknowledgement, as Govan took the padd and waited for the doctor to continue. All Echal wanted was to get out of this medical prison...

"I would like to say it’s been a pleasure to treat you. But in my experience treating a senior officer can be most dangerous for the attending physician. I am glad to have come through it generally unscathed. As for the Conference, my offer still stands. Now with you well, you must excuse me to look in on our esteemed diplomat," he concluded, moving off, supposedly to check on Tedak’s condition across sickbay.

Grumbling to himself as the doctor moved away, the Commander gingerly rolled his injured shoulder as if to test its mobility and pain, and finding both tolerable, he swung his legs over the biobed. It was only then it occurred to him that his boots were gone, probably removed to make him more comfortable. Grumbling some more, Govan eventually found them nearby. The nurses and staff in the area were pretending not to notice him, probably hoping he would do the same, and fortunately for them, he did choose to ignore them. Not that he would have anyway, but he’d realized that these were Tamir’s coworkers and potential friends, so he didn’t want to cause her, and therefore them, any trouble by being overly difficult or intimidating.

Eventually, he located all of his belongings with the exception of honor blade, which put him in a difficult position. He wasn’t leaving without it, but he probably wouldn’t find it without assistance. ‘Where is Tamir?’ he wondered, wishing she was here. It would make it so much easier... Finally, selecting an innocent enough looking female nurse, Govan now had the tough task of maintaining his menacing reputation without being too...well, menacing. Moving in her direction, seeing the dread in her body language as she realized he was heading for her, Echal came to a halt a few feet away to avoid scaring her too badly. “Nurse, my honor blade was removed from me. Where would it be now?” he questioned carefully, directly but not firmly.

Gaping at him, her big, wide eyes reminding him of Tamir when he first met her, the woman stammered before quickly recovering. “It...I think...Doctor Sural probably locked it up in his office to keep you from...well, I mean, this is sickbay after all, so...”

“Thank you,” Govan interrupted, putting the poor nurse out of her misery in a very uncharacteristically generous way as he headed towards the doctor’s office. Not missing the surge of relief that crossed her face, Echal felt a bit weird being polite, but he didn’t think he was THAT polite. After all, at least he interrupted her, albeit for her own good. Tamir was still nowhere in sight, and neither was the doctor, who was probably still tending to Tedak, so it was an easy enough affair to slip into the office, find the locked drawer, and gain access. And of course, no one stopped him.

Tedak’s honor blade had been placed next to his, and in spite of the temptation, Govan left it where it was before returning his own to its proper place and exiting sickbay. It felt so good to be out of that place... The first thing he wanted to do was return to the bridge, but considering his torn and bloodied uniform, a change of clothes and a shower seemed to be called for first, so he headed for his quarters, feeling confident Dor’vel had things well in hand and would for a few minutes more.

~

Once she’d informed Sural that Govan was ready to leave, Tamir had decided to clean up one of the labs, which needed it badly. It wasn’t the larger, private lab, as no one was allowed in there, but it had still managed to get rather cluttered. It took a few minutes to get it looking much better, and after everything was in its proper place and thoroughly sanitized, the nurse felt like she’d accomplished something.

Exiting the lab, she caught the tail end of a conversation between nurses. “Yeah, I’m not kidding. He actually said, thank you! I couldn’t believe it, but I felt like such an idiot for babbling on like that, but he makes me nervous, well makes everyone nervous I think, except her. Honestly, I don’t know how she puts up with...” the voice stopped suddenly, and realizing she was caught, Tamir stepped around the corner.

The three nurses stared in shock and horror at her, and Tamir stared back. No one seemed to know what to say. Sure, she had caught whispered comments before, but never this much. A long, awkward silence followed, no one daring to move or speak. Finally, she could take it no longer and had to say something. “He makes me nervous too, or at least, he did for a long time… I’ve just served with him long enough now to know that he’s only dangerous to those who cross him, so if you do your jobs and serve honorably and loyally, you don’t have anything to worry about.”

This was the first time Tamir had ever spoken to her colleagues directly about her connection to Govan, and she could practically see hundreds of questions swirling around in their minds, but none of them were voiced. “Umm…if you’ll excuse me, I should probably return to my duties,” she added softly before quickly moving away.

Trying to calm her racing heart, the nurses moved to Govan’s biobed to clean up after his departure. This wasn’t easy... Everyone thinking they were together, tip-toeing around her like she had some sort of disease...it was like there was a giant gap between her and the others, and it was very lonely. Blinking back tears, Tamir was tempted to leave early and have a good cry when she heard a familiar voice.

"Commander Echal? I owe you an apology,” Tedak began, and as Tamir turned, she found the diplomat standing by the bed of an engineer who had come in with plasma burns. “I have given my statement to both Ch'varak and Lhoell, and I'm taking full responsibility. You won't be blamed in any way, the blame is all mine. I started this.” The Ambassador hesitated, gazing at the floor while the startled officer flipped over to stare in surprise at his unexpected visitor. “I am, truly, sorry, and I am quite relieved that I didn't injure you too badly. I had no intention of hurting you."

Trying desperately not to laugh, both at the situation and the incredulous look on the engineer’s face, Tamir finally took pity on him and stepped forward. It was clear that he wasn’t quite himself yet, as he wavered and staggered on his feet, and even if he had actually been looking up, she wondered whether he would even be able to recognize immediately that this wasn’t the man he was addressing. “Tedak, this is Lieutenant Drieal. The Commander has already left,” she stated, carefully taking his arm and beginning to lead him back to his own bed. “While I appreciate you sticking to your promise to apologize, perhaps now really isn’t the best time for it.”

<Tag Tedak>

His coloring was off, and his eyes weren’t quite focused. “Let’s just get you back to bed, so you can get some rest,” she suggested gently, still fighting to restrain her laughter. It’s too bad Govan hadn’t been here. He might have found it humorous enough to lighten the mood. “There you go,” Tamir soothed, once she finally got Tedak back to his bed, reaching for a hypospray out of his sight. “You’ll be feeling much better once you’ve gotten some sleep,” she promised, smoothly administering the sedative, ignoring any protest, and watching as his eyes drifted closed and his breathing evened out. “You just rest here, and I’ll be back to check on you later."

[Deleted]

Taev dutifully left the ready room to carry out his orders. He selected one of his most trusted friends, Sovek, who had also been assigned to the S'Harien's security department to monitor Tedak's actions. He had tapped into all the video feeds around the ship to make certain all of Tedak's moves were watched. "I want this to be your first priority, unless otherwise ordered by myself, Dor'Vel, or Echal."

As the officer left, Taev remained stationed at his post on the bridge. He went over everything in his mind. First, the joint mission with the Federation vessel concluded, albeit with heavy hatred being thrown around not only between ships, but inside the S'Harien. Words were thrown between Echal, Tedak, Chvarak, and even Taev. There was a dim mist of hatred spread in the air. Afterwards, Tedak attacked Govan, who nearly killed the Ambassador, then Taev is ordered to interrogate both. Taev crosses paths with the Intelligence officer and exchanges words with him, and finds himself again on the bridge, after being ordered to monitor virtually everyone's actions. A mist of hatred indeed...

But, he might get a promotion out of it, with any luck.

Security had informed him the Commander was on his way back to his quarters. Taev quietly sent a message to Dor'Vel in case it had any significance.

tag Dor'Vel

Now the next task at hand was this event they were required to attend on Romulus. Taev had always hated social events, but he nonetheless realized the necessity of such occasions and had gained certain skills that were useful under those circumstances. Now it was only a matter of time before they arrived. Taev wondered what the next several hours would bring.

tag: ALL

[Deleted]

After having spent several hours asleep, Tedak awoke feeling slightly refreshed and less sore than he had been before. He sat up, though taking great care not to jostle his arm/shoulder too much. It was still smarting, but not as badly as before. His robe was still stiff with blood and his skin felt a little itchy, but it was nothing a sonic shower and clean clothes wouldn't cure.

He rose to his feet, feeling surprisingly balanced and took a few experimental steps. Looking around, he noticed that the nurses were paying no attention to him, which was just as well. He was certain they would've alerted Tamir and set her on him. He had no idea how much time he had spent here in sickbay, though he did know that several tests had been run and that he'd both been sedated and revived and that the combination of drugs had left him off-balance and incoherent for a while.

While he knew that the drugs were probably still not wholly out of his system, he felt clear of mind enough to find his way to the CMO's office and retrieve his Honour Blade. Replacing it in the folds of his robe, he turned and walked out of the medical bay. On the way to his quarters, the Romulan ambassador recalled the drawing of blood and being subjected to medical testing. Since he had basic field medicine, he knew there had been no grounds for further testing. The nurses had kept close check on him before, so why the blood sample? It had been a simple fight where both of them had been injured by the same dagger: his. And it was well known that his dagger wasn't poisoned or coated in any kind of sedative. If anything, he was known as an honourable dualist.

Shaking his head, Tedak entered his quarters, to be enthusiastically greeted by both his firelizards. Giving them the attention they were long overdue, Tedak disrobed and stepped into the sonic shower. He winced as dried blood was cleaned away from his skin, though he used a lower setting so not to upset the bandage or the freshly healed injury. He felt it pull on his back and throb on his chest but it was nothing of consequence. After his shower he selected a fresh robe, then sank down on the comfortable couch in his livingroom. While gently stroking Nut's back, he settled back. "Computer, secure channel to Taev Lhoell. Decode, diplomatic authorisation."

He wanted Lhoell to be aware of his concerns in regards to the chief medical officer, but had no legal basis to inform him. Perhaps a casual talk, by means of gathering information, might prove insightful. "Mr Lhoell, I would speak with you please. In private, can you come to my quarters? If Commander Echal is available, I would please see him as well."

[Taev]

[Deleted]

Everything was quiet on the bridge...too quiet really. Ever since receiving Tedak’s warning, via Tamir, that Lieutenant Ch’varak was probably going to cause trouble, Dor’vel had been on edge just waiting for the Legate to make his move, but so far, nothing had been forthcoming. That was probably his plan, keep everyone edge, wondering what he was plotting whether he was actually going to do anything or not. It was very frustrating, as there wasn’t really anything the Centurion could do.

When Taev’s message came through informing him that Govan had left sickbay and was heading to his quarters, Dor’vel felt a surge of relief. Once Commander Echal was back on the bridge and back in command, things would then go back to normal, as Tevio really couldn’t challenge Govan’s command, at least not yet. The Centurion certainly didn’t mind being in command, but such a position would have to be earned and assigned, not taken the way he’d had to do to protect their rightful Commander’s position. One day, hopefully, Dor’vel’s real day would come.

Making eye contact and nodding to tactical to let Taev know that his message was received, the Centurion leaned back in his chair, still ready for action should Tevio arrive but also trying to relax, as this entire ordeal was nearly finished. Hopefully, Govan would return soon, and knowing him the way he did, Dor’vel felt he would.

~

After a quick shower, a change in uniform, and an even quicker meal, Govan left his quarters heading for the bridge. While he trusted Dor’vel implicitly, he did not trust Lieutenant Ch’varak to allow him to remain unchallenged for long, especially not after he realized that Echal was not about to lose his command and that Taev had beaten him to speaking with Tedak, or at least he assumed so. His shoulder was still somewhat stiff and sore, but it was far from unbearable, so he needed to get to the bridge to retake and reaffirm his command of the S’Harien immediately.

It wasn’t long before the Commander arrived on the bridge, and from the looks of it, everything seemed to be in order, though he thought he detected a hint of relief on the Centurion’s face. Taking the opportunity to speak first, Govan addressed the helm first. “ETA to Outpost 24,” he demanded as Dor’vel relinquished his chair.

“Twenty hours,” the navigator replied, while Govan shook off taking the center seat.

“Maintain course and speed,” Echal responded, moving towards his ready room. “Centurion, you’re with me. Lhoell, you have the bridge,” he concluded smoothly.

<Tag Taev>

The room had been cleaned and his desk replaced. That was the first thing Govan noticed as he moved to sit behind the new desk. Gesturing for Dor’vel to sit across from him, Commander Echal didn’t even have to ask what he’d wanted from him.

“The S’Harien is making good time and is in good order,” Dor’vel reported as he sat opposite the Commander. “The crew responded well to my temporary command with the exception of Lieutenant Ch’varak of course. I was able to circumvent his initial investigation by sending Lhoell ahead of him before you regained consciousness, which I hear did not go over well. We also received a communication from Romulan Command requesting to speak with you, but I had Lhoell send a message stating we were conducting repairs and monitor all outgoing transmissions to ensure that they were not provided additional information otherwise,” the Centurion concluded.

Nodding in acknowledgement, Govan felt himself begin to relax. Everything had been handled well, as he should have expected. “I will contact Command shortly,” Echal replied, pausing for a moment before adding. “You did very well, Centurion.”

This was more than Dor’vel had expected, but it was appreciated. “Thank you, Sir. I have both Ambassador Tedak and Lieutenant Ch’varak under observation by the security department to prevent any further or future problems. I will assign Lhoell with the Ambassador and see to Ch’varak personally and ensure that the matters remain subtle and in trusted hands. Is there anything else you require?” he requested.

“No, that is all,” Echal replied. “Sounds like you have everything covered. Dismissed.”

Rising with a hint of a smile at receiving an additional compliment, Dor’vel nodded and left the ready room. Taking the center chair again, he accessed the console to bring up any reports on Ch’varak’s movements. In spite of the current situation having resolved itself, he wasn’t foolish enough to think it was over with the Legate.

Settling back in his seat, Govan took a moment to enjoy being there. He knew all too well that he was lucky this encounter hadn’t had serious repercussions on his career and life. He’d never really considered himself a very lucky person, and things were far from perfect, but he was at least aware enough to appreciate his lack of bad luck in this instance. Reaching for a report, Commander Echal realized he had a lot of paperwork ahead of him to get caught up, but for once he was glad for the work. It represented what he hadn’t lost…and allowed time to plan his next move.

~

Cheerfully taking inventory of one of the storage rooms, Tamir knew she probably shouldn’t be quite so happy, but she was. She had three friends on the S’Harien, a job she loved, and two kittens waiting for her at home. Things were pretty good, not perfect, but good. Govan would remain in command, and Tedak was sorry, so at least there was a light at the end of the tunnel. Everything was working out just fine. Humming to herself, the nurse placed the now completed report on the desk and moved to check on Tedak, stunned to find an empty bed instead of her friend.

Frowning in confusion, Tamir stood there for a few moments staring at the empty biobed before shaking her head. She supposed it shouldn’t have been so shocking for the Ambassador to make a run for it. The bigger surprise was that Govan hadn’t done so first when you really thought about it. With a wry smile, the nurse moved to clear the bed for the next patient. Considering the talking to she had given him earlier, she decided that she’d let this one slide. She had been rather hard on him...

Once her task was done, Tamir retrieved a datapadd and completed the discharge form, save the signature of course, then gathering a few other reports from Sural’s desk, she moved to the lab door and signaled to request entrance. Normally, most didn’t dare to disturb the doctor while he worked, but sometimes, someone needed to remind him of his usual, mundane duties like paperwork, patients…and eating.

<Tag Sural>

Stepping inside, though not too far, Tamir smiled at him and offered him the small stack of padds. “A few reports and the Ambassador’s discharge order. Apparently, he decided it was time to go,” she teased softly. “Do you need anything else, Sir?”

<Tag Sural>

[Deleted]

JP between Myself and Ambassador Tedak


Sitting at his station following the entire situation with Commander Echal and Ambassador Tedak now proved boring. Taev rather enjoyed the little bit of action that ensued from the altercation. It had also been his first investigation. It had been a success, mostly due to the fact that both stories corroborated each other. Now that all of that was over, Taev simply pressed buttons, going over and over the same typical routines.

His console beeped in front of him, signaling a message coming in on an encrypted channel. It was the Ambassador.

"Mr Lhoell, I would speak with you please. In private, can you come to my quarters? If Commander Echal is available, I would please see him as well."

Reluctantly, Taev obliged and went to the Ambassador's quarters. After being granted access, he said, "Commander Echal is indisposed at the moment and I have very little time. However, this seemed to be urgent. What can I do for you?"

Tedak gestured for the younger man to take a seat. "Doctor Sural," he stated simply, "he took bloodsamples from me but never explained why. And he did so quite covertly, when he presumed me to be asleep. As it was, I was quite aware of his actions. The point is, he never informed me of any necessity, nor informed me of any results. He never gave me an indication for release from sickbay, so in the end I released myself."

Taev thought on it for a moment before responding. "While I disagree with the Doctor's approach and covert appearance, perhaps he was simply making sure you were medically sound and prepared for your normal duties."

"I'm not certain." He had to concede that perhaps it was a valid action, but he didn't trust the doctor enough to be certain. "I don't trust him."

"Given recent events I understand that trust seems to be a luxury commodity on this ship. It is not given lightly. But I will investigate this further, if you wish." Taev did not trust the Doctor or the Ambassador, but for now, he would find out what the truth was.

"Please," the Ambassador requested, "it may be nothing and just me being paranoid because of medications administered, but it could be something. Usually a doctor informs a patient if blood samples are required. At least, that is what the Starfleet medics used to do."

Taev stifled a laugh. "This is not a Starfleet vessel by any means, however, I would agree with you. Is there anything else?"

Tedak shook his head. "No. There is nothing else. I had hoped to speak with Govan but if he is unavailable it will have to wait."

Taev nodded. "If that is all, I will take my leave." With that said, he moved to the door.

That was all lieutenant. Thank you for your swift response and .. thank you for saving me. I believe I owe you my life.."

Taev stopped in the doorway and turned his head back to say something, but he simply nodded and proceeded on his way.

The short walk later and he arrived on the bridge again. He would investigate the mysterious blood test on his next off duty shift. He resumed his station only to see Commander Echal arrive on the bridge as well. He requested the ETA to outpost 24 and then went in to his ready room with Dor'Vel, leaving the bridge under Taev's command. Taev took the center seat and waited to see what else this shift would bring.

[Deleted]

Tevio was storming to the bridge. Never before had he moved with such a lack of subtlety, in the full light of the corridor he marched like a man possessed. His wrist device alerted him with its quiet tone about halfway to the bridge, before he'd passed his quarters.

He stopped, looked for a secluded place and read the readout on his device. Conflicting thoughts, emotions, ran through him upon taking in what it was. While he paused for a further moment to make a decision, he knew exactly what he had to do: follow the instructions given to him. With a solid core of hard resolve, albeit wrapped in a jacket of hesitation, he made for his quarters, now even faster than before.

A minute later he entered his abode. "Activate screen," he stated, "Secure the channel, Tal Diann code chi-delta." He slotted himself into his chair just as the dark screen lit up; displayed on it was a lighter grey interior space, with a familiar official - nameless from Tevio's point of view - sitting at a desk.

"Yes?" the Legate asked. "This needs to be quick.."

"Silence," the man waved a hand. "I need you to lay low for a while, Legate - as instructed, I'm sure you recall."

"Lay low? Very well..." Immediately Tevio didn't like where this was heading.

"Pertaining to the upcoming diplomatic function your intel cell, pardon... your warbird, is due to attend, we have a task for you. Further instructions will be passed to you in precisely seven hours time. Be at your console, for the information sent to you will not be sent twice, and will be auto-wiped if you do not read it in thirty seconds." The neutral yet hard-faced man kept leering at him.

It was a joke, Tevio exaggerated to himself. How could they do this to him? At the very moment that he planned to make a move..... And a move that was not just a personal goal, but done in the names of righteousness. Over the past day he'd learned to hate Centurion Dor'vel. The idiot needed to be put in place, yet Tevio's hand was stayed by the very people he truly served. One of those people was before him now on his computer screen, and his seeming neutrality only mocked and further annoyed him.

"I understand.." he finally said. "I will speak with you in seven hours." He thumbed the screen off in a hard motion, not looking at the unbearably irritating man on the other end.

---

Before long he appeared on the bridge, and, near-simultaneously, several crew looked around. Many looked back to their work instantly, while a few select others lingered in their stare. A risky move considering the circumstances. They could stare all they wanted in Tevio's opinion; he'd ceased to care. In the time between the diversion to his quarters and his arrival here, he'd learned that Govan had returned to the bridge. Of course, then, he'd have been watched on surveillance from that point on.

He glared at one of the starers and moved down to the command arena, stopping dead-still when he saw who was now in the command chair. This was too much. Taev Lhoell was in the chair. In moments such as this, Tevio found his loyalty to the Tal Diann severely tested. They had prevented his power-grab and now, inadvertantly, he had to watch the security officer sitting in the centre chair, distributing orders. No, this time he was sure he had some leeway. And if he didn't, then he was going to make some. "Lieutenant - " he halted. Just as he'd started telling Lhoell to get out of the central chair, Dor'vel entered the bridge.

<Tag Govan (Dor'vel)> <Tag All>

[Deleted]

“Do you need something, Lieutenant?” Dor’vel questioned coolly, making his way past the Legate and taking the seat quickly vacated by Lhoell. “If so, I suggest you speak to Commander Echal, who is in his ready room,” the Centurion concluded, resisting the urge to smirk in triumph knowing there was no need to antagonize him.

<Tag Tevio>

Before the Intelligence Chief could finish speaking, the Ops station began beeping. “Sir, there’s an incoming transmission. It appears to be from Romulan Command,” the Uhlan at the station reported. “However, it’s not marked as confidential or for the Commander,” he added, as this was somewhat unusual for calls from Command.

Frowning slightly and momentarily ignoring Tevio, Dor’vel replied, “Patch it through to Commander Echal. Just give me a moment to call ahead to let him know,” he added, about to open a channel to the ready room when the Uhlan stopped him.

“Actually, Sir, it’s not letting me transfer it. I’ve tried several times, but it’s blocked.”

This was very strange. Apparently, whatever they wanted to say was intended to be said on the bridge, which knowing Echal’s relationship with Command probably was a very bad sign. “Echal to the bridge,” Dor’vel called, glancing suspiciously in Ch’varak’s direction, wondering if this was his doing and what he was up to now…

Govan had barely even started his paper work when the Centurion called him. If it had been anyone but Dor’vel, Echal would have been extremely displeased, but the Security Chief wouldn’t have bothered him unless it was important and the tone in his voice suggested the same, so the Commander moved quickly on to the bridge. The first thing he noticed was Ch’varak, standing next to the Command chair, but he ignored him, taking the seat Dor’vel was vacating to stand on the opposite side.

“We’re receiving a transmission from Command. I tried to have it patched through to your ready room, but the signal wouldn’t allow it somehow,” Dor’vel explained.

It was highly suspicious, and with a quick glance in Tevio’s direction, Govan began to wonder what sort of trap he was walking into, but unfortunately, there was no way around it. “On screen,” he ordered, turning to face front and whatever was coming.

“Commander Echal,” the Fleet Admiral acknowledged him stoically. “I trust that the S’Harien’s communications systems are in working order again,” he stated dryly.

For a split second, Govan didn’t know what he was talking about but then quickly remembered that Dor’vel had used that as a stall tactic. “Yes, clearly,” Echal replied carefully. “The S’Harien is less than a day from Outpost 24. We should arrive early tomorrow morning in plenty of time for the conference and reception that evening.”

“Good,” the Admiral replied offhandedly. “But I am calling on another matter. It would seem that you have been remiss in your duties, Commander. You have neglected to select a First Officer, so one has been selected for you,” he announced bluntly. Completely stunned, Echal froze for a moment, but the Fleet Admiral continued. “Give your diplomatic difficulties, we have decided to appoint Ambassador Tedak.”

Beyond shocked now, Govan stared in horror at the man as the already diminished sounds on the bridge came to a screeching halt. The Fleet Admiral seemed quite pleased at this reaction, his smug face snapping the Commander out of his stupor as barely controlled rage surged through him. “I was under the impression, Admiral, that a Commander selected his own First Officer, not that one was appointed to him.”

Still looking smug, his superior responded, “While that is normally the case, I am afraid you took too long to make your decision, so the choice was made for you. It would seem that you are too late,” the Fleet Admiral added with a satisfied smirk.

This was not happening... Govan wanted nothing to do with Tedak, let alone have him serve beside him day after day. His command has been so tenuous, he hadn’t even had a chance to consider a First Officer, and he’d also never been told to select one, nor reminded that he needed to do so. That had likely been intentional. No, he would not allow this. They could push him around, embarrass him, but this was too much. His mind made up, Echal replied, “Actually, Sir, I’m afraid you are.”

Smugness quickly vanishing, the Admiral frowned. “I beg your pardon, Commander?”

“I selected my First Officer a few moments ago. I hadn’t yet had a chance to make a note of it in the log or make it official, but I gave the position to Centurion Dor’vel.”

Now it was the Admiral’s turn to look shocked, then disappointed, then suspicious. “Really...very good timing...what, may I ask, prompted you to finally decide this?”

Fortunately, Dor’vel had stepped aside to be out of view during the conversation, because his surprise was entirely evident on his face. He had been shocked and angry at the idea that Tedak had just been dumped on them like that, but it hadn’t even occurred to him to pretend someone was already selected, let alone himself.

Govan hadn’t been planning to mention the altercation with Tedak, but as he was suddenly improvising, and the question had been posed, there was no other way. “Yesterday, there was an altercation in which I was injured. The Centurion handled things well during my short absence, which suggested to me not only that an official appointment should be made but also that Dor’vel would be a suitable choice for it.”

“An altercation?” This news seemed to surprise his superior more than his having chosen a First Officer. “I find this disturbing. What kind of altercation, Commander?”

“If you must know, I was attacked,” Govan replied nonchalantly. “But my injuries were minor, and the incident is being handled.” This was actually working out well. Informing Command of it in this situation made it less of a big deal than it would have been on its own, especially with him minimizing it and not voluntarily naming Ambassador Tedak as the attacker. “As such, it became clear that I did require a second in command, and so I spoke to Centurion Dor’vel a few moments ago and informed him of my decision. Naturally, this would come with a promotion as well.”

It was clear that the Fleet Admiral was thrown off by all of this and hadn’t expected the conversation to go this way. “If the Centurion...Sub Commander is to become your First Officer, whom do you intend to promote in his place as Security Chief?”

The Admiral was trying to trap him, but Echal simply selected the first name that came to mind. “Sub Commander Dor’vel suggested Uhlan Lhoell as his successor, and I agreed with this choice. And he will, of course, be promoted to Lieutenant.”

“I see,” the Fleet Admiral replied coldly, obvious displeased with this turn of events. “Well, regardless, Ambassador Tedak will be appointed to the S’Harien on a more permanent basis, if not as First Officer, than as a diplomatic liaison and advisor. It is still imperative that you learn diplomacy, as your last mission was disastrous...”

So tempting...it was so tempting to just name Tedak as his attacker now, but sadly, it was clear that Command had made up their minds to assign the Ambassador to him, probably partially out of spite. Protesting it, even with good reason, may have only pleased them further, ensuring he was stuck with him even longer, so he opted not to mention it yet. “Mine was not the only lack of diplomacy made evident by the last mission, Admiral. As you may recall, it was Lieutenant Ch’varak’s blatant and violent disregard for diplomacy that put the mission at risk, and I have yet to hear back from Command regarding what the consequences of these actions are to be”

Now looking even less pleased than before, the Admiral quickly retorted, “That is a Tal Diann matter and will be handled in house. I expect the S’Harien senior staff, including your new Security Chief, to be in attendance at both the conference and reception on Outpost 24 without an incident, and I will also expect your report,” he ordered sourly before pausing. “And Commander, I also expect a full report on this incident you spoke of immediately,” the Admiral added before the screen went dark.

Turning around, it was only then that Govan noticed that Tedak had at some point during the conversation entered the bridge and was standing in the back. Everyone was eerily silent, including Lhoell at tactical and Ch’varak and Dor’vel on opposite sides of him, though the Legate looked less than pleased, much like the Admiral. “Cent...Sub Commander, you have the bridge,” Echal finally stated before stalking back to his ready room, not really wanting to deal with anyone or their reactions, right now, leaving an absolutely stunned, shocked, and silent bridge in his wake.

Perhaps the most stunned of all, it was now just finally sinking in to Dor’vel. He’d been promoted to Sub Commander and was now the First Officer. For all anyone knew, Govan had promoted him earlier in the ready room. His praise had clearly indicated that he had been satisfied with how he’d handled himself, and that had meant almost as much as the actual promotion. It didn’t really matter that it’d only come in an effort to avoid Tedak’s appointment. Echal trusted him, and that was the most important thing. He’d made that clear long before this ‘forced promotion.’

Instead of addressing either Tevio or the Ambassador, the new Sub Commander took the command chair once again. “Helm, maintain course and speed. Lieutenant Lhoell, schedule a tactical and security department meeting for tomorrow morning.”

<Tag All>

[Deleted]

The only hint to ever having been injured recently, was the stiff movement he made with his right arm. Otherwise, Tedak looked every bit the distinguished diplomat he knew he was. Dressed in a near-black robe which only accentuated his green skin - and made him appear a little goblin-like - and his dagger safely hidden in the folds of his robe, the Romulan diplomat stepped onto the bridge.

And stepped in right in the middle of a conversation between Govan and a Romulan official he didn't recognise. However he could hear what was said just fine and what he heard shocked him to the core. First officer?

Tedak stood frozen at the back of the command center, unable to move and eyes wide in shock. They had to be kidding, this had to be a joke. He had no desire to be anyone's first officer, not after his own command had been taken from him so long ago. He was a diplomat now.

He didn't realise he'd been holding his breath until he released it when he heard Govan announce that Dor'vel was his first officer. ~whew~ he thought as he unfroze and started to take a step forward. Then Govan mentioned he was attacked, upon which the older Romulan held his breath again. He did have diplomatic immunity, they couldn't touch him. No matter what Govan would claim, rather it wouldn't even be a claim, it'd be the truth. He saw Govan mull over the answer, wondering then why he didn't speak out. He knew Govan hated him.. He was lost in thought for a moment, thereby missing part of the conversation.

“Well, regardless, Ambassador Tedak will be appointed to the S’Harien on a more permanent basis, if not as First Officer, than as a diplomatic liaison and advisor. It is still imperative that you learn diplomacy, as your last mission was disastrous...”

He was what! Tedak couldn't believe it, permanently assigned to a vessel where powerplays were a daily routine. He didn't belong here, he belonged on the starbase! He'd been assured that this assignment had only been permanent.

Quietly, though a little pale-faced, he stepped forward until he appeared beside Govan, just as the screen went blank. "I don't understand," he started softly, "why didn't you tell them on me?" He stepped around the stunned commanding officer to face him, shaking his head in confusion. "My statement is on record," he added, equally soft, his surprise clearly evident.

Then, he nodded towards the commander's private room. "We need to talk," he suggested mildly yet urgently. "Preferably in private." He beckoned one of the bridge officers and quietly handed his weapon over to keep safe for him. "I'm unarmed," he offered, by way of a sort of peace-offering. "You may search for more weapons if it pleases you, but I carry none. I don't really see last mission was such a disaster. There's always someone who sees a mission as such, no matter what the outcome."

He followed Govan to his private room at a respectful distance, keeping just out of his reach. "I'm not certain how to teach you diplomacy," he confessed, "you've been around me long enough to have picked up something..."

Tedak hesitated briefly. "Most important is restraint," he offered, "and not raising your voice to shout. Listening is also an important aspect and I know you're capable of that."

Now, the pause was a little more awkward. "Commander, I am taking full responsebility of my attack on you. If questioned again, I will still take the blame. You defended yourself, even if you used my own weapon against me. I really am sorry for provoking you." There was an awkward silence again. The usually smooth talking diplomat was now actively searching for words, and it made him look like an idiot. At least, that's how he felt. "I truly believed that if we had a little sparring, the tension between us might lessen. I now see that was wrong. I can't promise it won't happen again, but you have my word I'll try. My word is all I can give you, if that still counts for something. I still owe you my life, on more than one count, and I'll never forget that. It's a debt I owe you."

[Deleted]

Govan had barely had a chance to stand when the Ambassador had approached him. Right now, it took every bit of restraint he had not to just punch him. "I don't understand. Why didn't you tell them on me?" Tedak asked. "My statement is on record," he added, clearly confused, but the Commander didn’t have the patience to deal with him right now. Echal hadn’t even taken a step toward the ready room when the man continued. "We need to talk, preferably in private." Handing the all too familiar weapon over to a nearby bridge officer, he added, "I'm unarmed. You may search for more weapons if it pleases you, but I carry none. I don't really see last mission was such a disaster. There's always someone who sees a mission as such, no matter what the outcome," the Ambassador prattled on, quite irritatingly.

The unsuspecting officer held the dagger carefully and looked questioningly at his Commander. Shaking his head, to indicate he didn’t need Tedak searched, Govan jerked his head in the direction of Dor’vel, indicating that he should hand the weapon over to his new First Officer, before stalking towards the ready room, knowing the Ambassador would follow close but hopefully not too close behind. If he managed to control his temper and instincts and not kill Tedak right now, it’d be a miracle...

"I'm not certain how to teach you diplomacy. You've been around me long enough to have picked up something... Most important is restraint and not raising your voice to shout. Listening is also an important aspect and I know you're capable of that."

The urge to snap, strike, or at the very least roll his eyes was very strong, but he somehow managed to control himself. Considering recent circumstances, Tedak lecturing HIM on restraint or anything really was ridiculous. Govan didn’t care that it was his current assignment or orders. There was absolutely nothing he could learn from the Ambassador now, perhaps ever, and the sooner he got the diplomat off his ship the better. His departure might not happen for now, but it would happen...

“Commander, I am taking full responsibility of my attack on you. If questioned again, I will still take the blame. You defended yourself, even if you used my own weapon against me. I really am sorry for provoking you. I truly believed that if we had a little sparring, the tension between us might lessen,” the Ambassador explained, visibly anxious. “I now see that was wrong. I can't promise it won't happen again, but you have my word I'll try. My word is all I can give you, if that still counts for something. I still owe you my life, on more than one count, and I'll never forget that. It's a debt I owe you," Tedak concluded, the words rushing out of him somewhat haphazardly.

Echal had no idea what to say. He’d known an apology was coming, since Tamir had said he would, but he hadn’t yet adjusted to the idea that Tedak was here to stay, at least for a while, nor was he particularly pleased with being advised by him, now or ever. As ridiculous an explanation as it was, Govan had to admit actually understanding what he was trying to say. A ‘friendly’ fight, like on the holodeck or training facilities, might have actually helped, but he’d gone about it all wrong. As far as the Commander was concerned, they would never be friends and probably never get along. Tolerating each other was even a stretch at this point, but it would appear that neither of them had much of a choice in the matter anymore, so they might a well at least to attempt to get along or at the very least not kill each other.

“I think it goes without saying that I don’t want you here… I don’t like you, and I’m sure the feeling is mutual. However, if I were to file a complaint or transfer request, it would only prolong your assignment, and if you were to do so, it would have the same result. So here’s what I propose: you stay out of my way, and I’ll stay out of yours. We will both do our jobs with as minimal and infrequent interaction between us as is possible, and once Command realizes it hasn’t phased either of us, you’ll be transferred. The last time I proposed such an arrangement, you provoked me into an altercation, but I trust that will not be the case this time. While there is no need to deny the hostility that is clearly present, there is no need for either one of us to antagonize the other, as it is in neither of our best interest to do so,” Govan stated evenly, not looking directly at Tedak but rather a spot on the wall behind him. The words came out calmly, almost unemotionally, but there was obvious effort involved. “Now, get out of my ready room and out of my sight until the conference.”

<Tag Tedak>

[Deleted]

“I think it goes without saying that I don’t want you here… I don’t like you, and I’m sure the feeling is mutual. However, if I were to file a complaint or transfer request, it would only prolong your assignment, and if you were to do so, it would have the same result. So here’s what I propose: you stay out of my way, and I’ll stay out of yours. We will both do our jobs with as minimal and infrequent interaction between us as is possible, and once Command realizes it hasn’t phased either of us, you’ll be transferred. The last time I proposed such an arrangement, you provoked me into an altercation, but I trust that will not be the case this time. While there is no need to deny the hostility that is clearly present, there is no need for either one of us to antagonize the other, as it is in neither of our best interest to do so,” Govan stated evenly, not looking directly at Tedak but rather a spot on the wall behind him. The words came out calmly, almost unemotionally, but there was obvious effort involved. “Now, get out of my ready room and out of my sight until the conference.”

There were several times when the older man tried to speak, but he never got the chance so he nodded in silence where appropriate, all the while wondering what was going on that either of them deserved this nasty twist of fate.

"It is in our best interest to sit this out," Tedak observed calmly, while leaning against the wall. He was aware that Govan wasn't looking at him and refusing to meet his gaze. "We were never friends, and we never will be. But there was a time when we did trust eachother, and I am looking forward to the day that we will again. In time, I believe we may learn to trust eachother again, even if we both think the chances are slim at present. You won't turn your back on me for fear I'll kill you, and I won't turn my back on you for fear of you killing me."

Tedak too was speaking calmly, feeling actually rather calm and at ease, despite the chill that ran down his spine. "We need to work together, show them that we can," he added, not even remotely obeying Govan's order to leave. He wouldn't leave until he was done. "And we have work to do. You can't expect me to keep out of your sight, when there are instructions to be given. Matters to be discussed, diplomatic matters, as well as consequences if we both fail. And I don't intend to cower in my quarters, I intend to remain on the bridge and share as much information as I can, to allow you to do your part to the best of your ability."

He paused, pushing away from the wall to walk up to the younger man. He paused a few feet away. "Surely we can agree on that much?" he asked quietly, gazing squarely at the commanding officer, unflinching, and unafraid. He had his hands folded before him, his expression open and non-threatening. Plus he was utterly unarmed, which Govan knew as he'd witnessed the handing over of the Honour Blade, which was also commonly known to be his only weapon. "Can't we?"

[Deleted]

Tevio stood still as stone, as once more Centurion Dor'vel (or was that now Subcommander?) occupied the central chair. Govan had just retreated back to his ready room, likely to cower from the air of disbelief stirred up by his ridiculous exchange with the Admiral. Tevio was burning inside. He was angry, angry with everything that had just happened.

Echal had taken things too far, worming his way out of a bad situation; in the process spurning those he couldn't trust, and rewarding those he could (but only because it was convenient). The Commander would pay for this; maybe not now, or even soon, but he would pay eventually. None of this made any sense, and it'd lifted the mood of the Legate only slightly when he'd seen Tedak at the back of the bridge. The Ambassador was now speaking with the Commander, discussing what, Tevio could only guess on. Once more, he felt somewhat helpless and in the dark.

As the overly smug Commander had even chose to burn him, while he was standing right there, behind the command chair, Tevio thought that his revenge should follow a similar vein. Perhaps the reception would provide ample opportunity to frame Echal in such a position, that was if his own superiors would allow it.

He was half-tempted to finish his reply from earlier with Dor'vel, but did not fall to that weak force propelling him to do so. No, the moment had passed, things were different now. Although he hated to think it and despised himself for doing so, he admitted that he'd been in a position of weakness. To speak now would only accentuate it. It was as an old master had told him... Desperation is easy to see, even when it's not there.

No, he opted not to continue. Instead, he simply leant over and whispered in the Centurion/Subcommander's ear. "Congratulations, I pray you perform well as first officer. Although, anything you'll do will beat that effort at hiding your surprise. Echal got away with it this time, but I must wonder if he's left himself in a hole with your appointment. Let's not let him down, shall we?"

<Tag Dor'vel, not necessarily in form of direct speech but that would be fine. A lame tag, I know>

With that Tevio left the bridge, keen to escape the light even if he was scornful of Echal for just the same reasons. He didn't have to worry about that though. What law governed hypocrisy; prevented it? None and none as far as he was concerned.

<To be continued in 6.75 IC hours time>

[Deleted]

"It is in our best interest to sit this out. We were never friends, and we never will be. But there was a time when we did trust each other, and I am looking forward to the day that we will again. In time, I believe we may learn to trust each other again, even if we both think the chances are slim at present. You won't turn your back on me for fear I'll kill you, and I won't turn my back on you for fear of you killing me."

In spite of Govan’s extreme annoyance, and rather clear mandate that the diplomat leave his office, Tedak continued to speak, leaning casually up against the wall as if to show he was in no danger, which annoyed Echal further. "We need to work together, show them that we can, and we have work to do. You can't expect me to keep out of sight when there are instructions to be given, matters to be discussed, diplomatic matters, as well as consequences if we both fail. And I don't intend to cower in my quarters either. I intend to remain on the bridge and share as much information as I can, to allow you to do your part to the best of your ability," he added, moving from the wall and calmly stepping closer. "Surely we can agree on that much? Can't we?" the Ambassador concluded, facing him squarely, calmly...

For someone who interacted with people for a living, Tedak sure seemed dense when it came to how to deal with Commander Echal. It had been made perfectly clear that Govan wanted him out of his ready room, and yet there the man stood, still babbling away, making it perfectly clear that he wasn’t going to just go away, either immediately or generally. In spite of supposedly not desiring to intentionally provoke him, the Ambassador was sure doing a pretty good job of it. “Sure,” Echal scoffed sarcastically. Truth be told, he would have said just about anything to get the man out of the ready room. “Now, if you don’t mind, I have a lot of work to do.”

<Tag Tedak>

Once the troublesome Ambassador was finally gone, Govan slumped back in his chair and rolled his tense shoulders. So much had happened so quickly that it was difficult to process it all. He had a First Officer now, Dor’vel. Honestly, he should have promoted the man sooner than this, but it hadn’t even occurred to him. The assignment had always felt so tenuous, potentially coming to an end at any given moment, that doing something permanent hadn’t seemed wise, but in any case, the Centurion, correction Sub Commander, was a natural choice. He was already Govan’s right hand man, and Echal trusted him. Just about anybody would have been better than Tedak, but no one would have been better than Dor’vel. And he had a new security chief. It was hard to imagine anyone taking Dor’vel’s place in that regard, but he knew that his First Officer trusted Lhoell, so that would have to be good enough for him until he interacted more with the Uhlan, correction, the Lieutenant. All these new ranks were going to take some adjustments to process.

The biggest adjustment would be having Tedak on the S’Harien permanently. The thought of having the Ambassador following him around, spouting his pacifist, pro-Federation opinion at every turn, and providing his unwanted advice on a regular basis seemed like a particularly cruel form of torture, even to him, but he would have to bear it somehow without killing the source of his annoyance. It was going to be a challenge...that was certain. And now, the first stage of this challenge was somehow surviving this blasted conference with the diplomat’s constant nagging.

~

Tired after a long, stressful day but still remarkably upbeat, Tamir hummed quietly to herself as she made her way back to her quarters. Govan had been released from sickbay and seemed no worse for wear, Tedak was also out of sickbay and was repentant of his action, and, the best news of all, the nurse had heard through the speedy and accurate gossip grapevine of the medical department that Dor’vel had been promoted to Sub Commander and made First Officer. As far as she was concerned, he certainly deserved it, and it only made sense for Govan working with someone he trusted. Not only that, but the two senior-most members of the crew happened to be her close friends, and that helped her feel very safe and protected.

She arrived home only to find quite a few things scattered around the floor. At first, Tamir was startled and a bit concerned, until she caught sight of two very sleepy kittens curled up in a towel, which had somehow made its way from the hook in her bathroom to the middle of the living room floor. “I guess you two need some proper toys, huh?” she questioned, reaching out to stroke a soft little ear, which awakened the two little balls of fur who eagerly began meowing and purring for attention. With a soft laugh, she obligingly moved to the sofa and began petting the two clamoring felines, who happily rolled around making sure she scratched their favorite spots. “Alright, enough of that,” she teased, laughing as she realized that she and the sofa were now covered in cat fur. “I guess I need brushes too,” she mused, moving to the replicator to retrieve their dinners and give her a chance to clean up the mess.

As the two kittens dug into what the computer had assured her was an appropriate meal for young cats, Tamir began to take inventory of her belongings. Nothing was broken or even damaged, save a few tiny teeth marks here and there. Apparently they had just seen fit to do some rearranging. Once everything was back where it belonged, the nurse consulted the computer for some suggestions for toys and any supplies they might need. Within fifteen minutes, she was armed with an array of items for her new companions, a brush, nice cozy bed, and a wide assortment of colorful toys to go along with the water dishes and ‘liter box’ she’d already gotten. So far, it appeared she’d done well, as the little balls of terror were already eagerly attacking some of the toys, which apparently included some sort of ‘cat nip’ scent.

Now that they were happily distracted, she had to figure out what she wanted to eat. Her quarters were somewhat nicer than standard civilian quarters, most likely thanks to Govan, but she’d rarely made use of the kitchen due to lack of time and no one to join her in enjoying what she made, but she was feeling in the mood for cooking something and more importantly baking something. She didn’t really have anything special to celebrate that deserved the effort, let alone the fact that she’d have to enjoy it all on her own, but that’s when she got an idea. Grinning from ear to ear, she moved back to the replicator to retrieve what she needed, leaving one kitten curled up in a ball kicking a fluffy, blue...thing, and the other batting a small, green ball across the floor. Hopefully, they would stay distracted by their new toys to get underfoot, because she had a lot of work to do in a shorter amount of time.

[Deleted]

Stepping off the transporter pad, Kreiala did nothing to hide her disdain at the ship she considered a waste of resources that would have been better used in scientific endeavours.. nor did she hide her disdain for the crew, a bunch she considered sub standard in both Intelligence and usefulness.
Her piercing green eyes scanned the room quickly as her mind ran through the possible contaminants that floated around the ships air she was now being forced the breath.

She was not on this ship nor part of its crew out of choice, quite the opposite she had held a position at a prestigious research institute, until she discovered a way to increase scanner efficiency in long range use, a most useful discovery for many of the scientific and military branches of the Romulan government. Of course she didn’t get the credit she so richly deserved, that went to her direct supervisor who not only didn’t come up with the idea he didn’t even know of it’s existence until he was told by her. After he took credit she soon received transfer orders, she had no doubt it was his doing.

“Welcome to hell.” She muttered to herself as she walked out of the room. She strode don the halls with her shoulders high and nose firmly up in the air, giving the impression she as somehow much better than those around her. Her features were those of a typical Romulan female nothing really set her apart from others with the exception of her eyes. The pupils were oddly small and surrounded by a sea of deep green they were often described by those who liked her as beautiful and described by those who hated her as disturbing giving the impression she was seeing straight into them.. or the more absurd description of that they looked as if they could fire lasers at someone at any time.

Her hands were thin and slender like the rest of her body, but with the noted fact that they always wore tight black gloves, they were never removed from her hands when she was outside of her quarters. A fact that had led some of her younger co-workers to believe she had claws or some other deadly weapon hidden in there. This of course was not the case it was far more simple, she didn’t like to touch things with her skin unless completely sure they were clean.. and in her view anything outside her quarters which she sterilised everyday wasn’t.

After the short walk she finally found herself standing outside of the Commanders ready room, she had read a brief description of the man and was already unimpressed. She would have preferred someone with a science background but this Govan had non at all, still she was a loyal officer and duty was duty. She pressed the buzzer and waited for the door to open.

Stepping inside she found him looking rather tired sitting in a chair, she raised an eyebrow at the sight and cleared her throat. “Commander Govan?.. I am Kreiala Vyan, newly assigned as science officer.. my orders.” She bluntly stated as she walked forward and held out the small green PaDD

[Deleted]

"Congratulations, I pray you perform well as First Officer. Although, anything you'll do will beat that effort at hiding your surprise. Echal got away with it this time, but I must wonder if he's left himself in a hole with you’re appointment. Let's not let him down, shall we?" the sinister sounding voice of the Legate carried the short distance between them. It gave the newly promoted officer an uneasy chill down his spine. In spite of the eerie, evil feeling, Dor’vel refused to acknowledge him, turn around, or respond. He didn’t get the feeling that a reply was even what the man was after.

Eventually, the sound of the lift doors opening and sliding closed let him know the Intelligence Chief was gone, and he could finally breathe again. The man sucked the life and warmth out of a room like no other...but in spite of the creepy chill left in the air, Dor’vel knew that this little moment was a well-orchestrated attempt on the Legate’s part to intimidate him, and although he couldn’t clam to be unaffected by the effort, he was determined not to let it really get to him in the long run. The fact that he even took such a blatantly obvious stab in his direction spoke volumes. He’d lost this round and knew it but was determined not to show that knowledge. Still, he certainly knew his strengths and being creepy was obviously one of them.

The First Officer was still trying to shake the eeriness off when his shift ended. As he made his way onto the lift, he was finally allowed a moment alone to let out a huge sigh of relief. That had been a lot to deal with in a short amount of time, but the good news was he got through it and his situation had improved drastically in the process. Second in command of an Imperial Warbird! It was the next, big step towards achieving his dreams, his family’s dreams of success, but more importantly, it was a proud accomplishment, and he’d found a place where he felt he belonged.

He’d barely had a chance to begin processing the rush of thoughts and emotions that surrounded him now that he could allow them to fully emerge when he heard a comm channel open. =/\=Dor’vel? It’s Tamir. I’m sorry to bother you while you’re off duty, but I could really use your help with something, if you’re not busy I mean.=/\=

“Uh…no, no I’m not busy,” the Sub Commander responded, stammering slightly and mentally kicking himself for it. “I got off duty just now, so I can be right there.”

=/\=Oh! It’s not that urgent. I mean, you don’t have to come straight here... I didn’t really mean to catch you before you even got a minute to yourself like I did…=/\=

“No, it’s not a problem. Really, it isn’t. I’ll be there in five minutes ok?” he replied, kicking himself some more for making he feel like she’d bothered him. Some job he was doing of looking after her. He still needed to live up to Govan’s faith in him.

=/\=Alright... I’ll see you then...=/\= the anxious sounding voice replied. =/\=Sorry again for bothering you like this...=/\= she added before the comm channel closed.

“I’m such an idiot...” Dor’vel grumbled, shaking his head in disgust at his stupidity.

~

“I’m such an idiot...” Tamir moaned, sinking into a chair and burying her face in her hands. Clearly, she’d gotten carried away and hadn’t thought it all the way through.

She’d been so excited to congratulate him on his promotion and surprise him that she had completely ignored the fact that he might not feel like celebrating, let alone with her. He was an important officer, even more important now, and he might not have the time or energy to indulge a civilian nurse who was just feeling lonely and bored...and stupid. What had she been thinking? And now, he was coming here, probably expecting to put out another fire she had started, and all that was waiting for him was a pointless, waste of time, and because of Govan, he would have no other choice but to indulge her...yet again... Honestly, what had she been thinking?

Well...it was too late now. He was already coming over, so she might as well have things ready, not that there was anything more she could do. Not the best cook in the Empire, Tamir had fallen back on what she knew best...baking. There was fresh bread on the table and a berry pastry cooling on the counter. Unfortunately, that had not been enough to constitute a proper meal, so she had desperately thrown together some sort of stew from a recipe in the computer. It tasted pretty good to her, but she had no idea if it would be any good to him. The nurse could only hope that she hadn’t screwed it up too badly, but at least she knew the dessert would make up for it, as long as the soup wasn’t absolutely horrible. She knew desserts.

Once, she’d stirred the stew and decided it again didn’t seem so bad, Tamir began to pace nervously. She had opted to leave her hair half down, when it was usually pulled back, and was wearing a medium blue dress instead of her civilian uniform. It had been done in an attempt to show just how proud she was of his success, but now that he was coming, she was beginning to second guess herself. It was probably as stupid an idea as the original had been, but it was too late to change. He would be coming in uniform, thinking this was a duty related issue, but he was walking, completely unsuspectingly, into a trap, one she set, and she felt terrible...

The chime sounded before she was ready, not that any length of time would have fixed that, and she turned to face the door, trying to summon whatever courage she could find. Smoothing her dress and her hair, she took a deep breath. “Come in...”

Dressed in a clean uniform and determined not to continue to act so stupid, Dor’vel entered the nurse’s quarters only to stop dead in his tracks. In spite of the vow he made just seconds earlier, the Sub Commander just stood there and stared at her for several moments, too long to not be obvious. He’d never seen her look so...well he’d never seen her not... “You...” he started, quickly falling silent as he had no idea what to say. Trying desperately to gather his focus, he tried again. “You said you needed my help with something?” he questioned, pulling himself mostly together.

He could clearly tell something was going on, and Tamir felt her face flush. Why had she decided surprising him would be a good idea? “Uh…well actually, that’s not entirely true...” she began, glancing nervously at her fingers. “I heard about your promotion, and I thought maybe you might feel like celebrating. I realize now that I shouldn’t have assumed you’d be free, since you probably have more important things to be doing, and I’m sorry to bother you like this, but you can still take some food with you, since you have to eat some time. I can wrap it up to take with you.”

Trying not to stare, Dor’vel had quickly turned his attention to their surroundings, only have listening to what she was saying while mentally calling himself an idiot. His eyes first fell on the two creatures he’d seen before, both watching him from behind a chair with big, glowing eyes, and since he felt like they probably thought he was an idiot too, he surveyed the room, only to notice dinner on the table, which was set for two. He also began to realize he could smell something fantastic, and he was starving. Between what he was seeing and smelling, and the little bits and pieces of what she was saying that he was able to pick up amidst his surprise and embarrassment, it finally sunk in. “You did all this...for me?” he asked, astonished.

Face flushing even more, Tamir nodded. “But...you don’t have to stay, if you don’t want to or can’t. I should have just asked you directly, but I wanted to surprise you.”

Momentarily forgetting his embarrassment, Dor’vel smiled softly. She’d wanted to surprise him... “That was...very thoughtful of you,” he replied quietly. “Thank you.”

Feeling herself relax, Tamir smiled back. Maybe this hadn’t been such a bad idea after all. “Are you hungry?” she asked. “It’s not much…just some bread and stew, but I have...” she was interrupted by his stomach suddenly rumbling, and pausing momentarily, she suppressed a laugh. “I guess you are hungry. Hopefully, it’s good.”

His ears were suddenly feeling quite warm, but he tried to ignore it. “I guess I am...” he replied, laughing nervously. “And I’m that sure it will be. It all smells wonderful.”

Blushing at the praise, Tamir quickly moved to the table to ladle the soup into the bowls. Although still a bit awkward, as she really hadn’t thought it all through, this was turning out to be not so bad. And it was great to not be alone for a little while.

Taking a seat, he watched her quietly, a myriad of thoughts and emotions racing through his mind, most of which he ignored. The thought that she had gone to all this trouble made him feel a bit guilty, especially since he was essentially spying on her, but for right now, he decided not to over-analyze and just enjoy the meal and the moment. After all, today was turning out to be a pretty fantastic day for him…

[Deleted]

With the only two patients in sickbay now fully discharged and returned to their own duties Sural allowed him a small sigh of relief.

As usual Tamir had organised the sickbay well and had just left him having checked that there was nothing more to be done. He was beginning to feel more settled on the S'Harien. It had taken sometime but he was starting to get a feel for the crew and the way they worked. He found the crew more manipulative than on previous vessels on which he had served. Admittedly those had been on larger vessels like the old D'Deriderix class ships or the starbases near the neutral zone.

Whilst he wouldnt ever considered himself happy on any of those tours of duty at least here he was starting to feel more comfortable. Govan and he failed to see eye to eye all the time but the commander showed an understanding for what was required more so than many he had served with. The man lacked subtlty and the assignement was obviously a punishment for Command for some misdemeanour or other. Either way he knew that as long as he played true to the Commander the Commander might play true to him.

Deciding to return to his secure lab Sural took his seat at he Hyper-Electron Microscope and continued to go through the remains of Raltorrs bio weapon notes. There wasn't enough to synthesise what he wanted but the detail was clear enough to offer him some new insight on his current problem - how to stabilise the target genome and avoid uneccessary drift into dangerous territories. It was a problem he hoped the protein markers in Tedaks blood would help him with. The markers were clearer than in Ch'varaks but Tedak was be far the more accessible.

He paused as he heard an announcement from the bridge that they had arrived at the starbase and that hard docking would occur momentarily. He groaned inwardly as he realsied the diplomatic function would likely go ahead and decided he best go and check his dress uniform for moths.

[Deleted]

The S’Harien had just arrived at the outpost, and the diplomatic conference was scheduled to begin in a few hours. Commander Echal was in his ready room, and Sub Commander Dor’vel was in command of the bridge. Following the insanity of the past few days, things seemed quiet and normal in spite of the recent docking. Govan sat at his desk, perusing reports and trying not to think about the impending conference. This had the makings of the most boring day of his life, but all things considered, boring would be a successful, preferable outcome to other potentials. If he somehow managed not to offend or injure anyone today, it’d be a good day...

Dor’vel was in a great mood. Yesterday had been an absolutely fantastic day, and he didn’t think anything could ruin his current disposition. He was still learning his official duties as First Officer, although surprisingly, many of them were tasks that had already been delegated to him throughout the past year. One of his first jobs was to approve the transfer of a new Science Chief, who was to come aboard from the outpost. He knew that Govan wasn’t really a man of science, neither was he to be honest, but it was a simple enough matter to assign quarters, grant her security clearances, and approve the transfer orders, forwarding them to the Commander for the final approval of course. So far, Dor’vel liked this whole First Officer thing.

The Sub Commander was alerted when the new officer was ready to be beamed aboard and granted the transporter room permission to do so. Once completed, the First Officer sent Echal a quick message letting him know that the Science Chief had arrived aboard and was most likely on her way to report into the Commander. It was always interesting to welcome a new crewmember, particularly a new senior officer. First impressions were made, and from them, you naturally theorized as to whether you would get along and work well with them, how well they would fit into the crew as a whole and the senior staff specifically, and how long they would last. The S’Harien had a somewhat higher turnover rate than most warbirds, but it was the science department in particular that seemed to have a revolving door in place. It would be quite interesting to see whether this new officer would be any different.

Hearing the doors open at the back of the bridge, Dor’vel composed a quick, less than eloquent message, a simple ‘she’s here,’ sent it to Govan, and then stood to welcome the newest member of the S’Harien crew, only to find that in the short time it had taken to write and send the message, she’d already arrived at the door to the ready room and requested entrance. She certainly didn’t waste time, and as far as first impressions went, he barely had a chance to form one based on her speedy progress and the brief glimpse of her he’d caught as she entered the ready room. ‘I guess I will meet her on her way out; that is, if I manage to catch her this time…'

He was not looking forward to this. Scientific officers seemed to come and go like days here on the S’Harien, and honestly, he didn’t see much need. Occasionally, they would provide some sort of useful fact or suggestion, but most of the time, their presence was merely perfunctory. Since the departure of their first Chief Science Officer, there had been a steady stream of useless, clueless, wimps passing through the S’Harien like water, and he doubted that this one would prove to be dissimilar. Still, he had no choice but to try and be welcoming…quite far from his strong suit.

Dor’vel’s updates on her progress were helpful in mentally preparing himself for it, and based on the time it took for her to get from transporter room to bridge to ready room, she seemed to be all business, an estimation that was only confirmed when she was standing before his desk. “Commander Govan? I am Kreiala Vyaln, newly assigned as science officer,” she introduced herself succinctly, extending her hand holding the datapadd as she stepped forward and brusquely adding, “My orders.”

Wordlessly, the Commander took the padd and glanced over it, not that he doubted its content. After a brief moment, he raised his eyes back up to the science officer. “Welcome aboard the S’Harien,” he offered, his voice far from enthusiastic but not entirely unwelcoming either. “The usual time to settle in will have to wait. The entire senior staff has been ordered to attend a diplomatic conference and reception on the outpost,” he announced, clearly disgruntled. “You have as little choice in the matter as I do, so considering none of us have found a way out, I suggest you merely accept it,” he stated evenly. “It begins in two and a half hours time, so accomplish what you can in the meantime. See Sub Commander Dor’vel on your way out for your assigned quarters and security clearances,” he added, handing back the padd. “Dismissed,” he concluded rather unceremoniously, already returning to his report.

<Tag Kreiala>

When the science officer had reappeared from the ready room, in almost less than a minute, Dor’vel was ready for her, and quickly stood before she could instantly disappear again. “Sub Commander Dor’vel,” he introduced himself briefly, holding a padd out for her to take. “This contains the location to your office and quarters, security clearances, and approved transfer orders. I’m sure Commander Echal has already informed you of the diplomatic conference we are to attend. Report to the docking port at 0945 to disembark with the rest of the senior officers,” he ordered.

<Tag Kreiala>

[Deleted]

Pacing his office, Tedak reviewed his notes again and again. Over the last few days, and especially over the last few hours, he had tried to come up with a way to help the crew of the S'harien through the diplomatic conference. And of the crew, it's commanding officer in particular.

By now it was well known that the commander and the ambassador didn't quite get along. There was still talk flying across the ship about their altercation, which had landed the both of them in sickbay. Tedak actually had managed a small smile when a rumour reached him on the extend of their injuries, and the cause of the altercation. When asked by junior crew, he had merely smiled pleasantly and had refused to answer the question. "If you want to know, talk to Doctor Sural," he had answered politely. Whether the crew dared to, was not his concern and didn't merit his attention.

The ambassador returned his attention to his notes. He had discovered that several clans would be visiting the conference, and he had to make Govan aware of the fact that several were in fact feuding families that he shouldn't bring together at all cost, or the conference would fail. And he shouldn't alienate allied families either, but how was he going to get Govan to show tact, when tact was something that went right out the door when the two Romulans were trying to deal with another?

Over the last days, Tedak had managed to stay out of Govan's way, and if possible out of his direct line of sight. He shook his head, focusing on the PADD in his hand. The whole crew had to be told to watch their step, and he'd brief them just before the beaming down to the outpost. Yes, this certainly was going to be a test to his patience, that the experienced diplomat was quite certain of.

Unconsciously, he flexed his right shoulder, rubbing it gently as he scrolled through the contents of his file. One thing in particular caught his attention. There was one clan going to be present, that he himself had past dealings with. So he had to inform Govan that he too had to watch his step, but as diplomat that shouldn't be too much of a concern. When in function, he was a different man as opposed to when he was comfortably at home. Yet, for some reason he knew he had reason to be nervous. Perhaps he ought to inform the security chief of this, before the briefing, so that he would be able to watch out for possible trouble.

"Tedak to Lhoell, can you come to my office?" The diplomat didn't wait for reply. "It is important lieutenant, the lives of this crew may depend on it while we are at the outpost."

[Deleted]

OOC: JP between myself and Ambassador Tedak


The short communications with command had been most benefitial for Taev. With now Sub-Commander Dor'Vel as First Officer, Taev had been elevated to Chief of Security and Lieutenant. With his new position came the respect of many on the S'Harien, but Taev knew that respect alone was not the only factor of being a good leader. It was now his job to prepare for and expect the worst in every situation. Detail and discretion were key.

As the S'Harien got ever closer to its destination, Taev decided to look into what he would be getting himself into at this diplomatic event. He wasn't much for these sort of occasions, preferring the solace of his own quarters and a good sidearm at his side. But at the order of the Commander, he, as well as the rest of the senior staff, were required to attend. For now, he would bide, as he did quite frequently. In an effort to become an experienced Security Chief, Taev began to cross check all of the guests and dignitaries that would be in attendance with all of the S'Harien crew. He started at the top, with Commander Echal. Several of the dignitaries brought up contact points, but for such a noted Romulan commander, that was to be expected. He moved to sub-Commander Dor'Vel. He found little information on the Romulan, finding no contact points in the database. Since after this, it was rather irrelevant who was next, Taev moved to Tevio Ch'varak. As an intelligence officer, Taev expected there to be a large amount of Classified material. That was indeed the case, as he saw the many Tal Diann and Tal Shiar encryption codes. Tal Shiar... hmmm[/]

Taev then moved onto the Medical officer, Uhlan Sural Turanek. His profile seemed rather clean. Had it have been any other officer, Taev would have been suspicious, but doctors were held to different standards then military officers were. However, while everything checked out with the uhlan, Taev couldn't help but remember Ambassador Tedak's situation with Sural. A blood sample.... Taev still stood by his earlier statement saying it was nothing, but perhaps at some point, Sural would submit to questioning.

On the Topic of the Ambassador, from nearly the beginning of the file, suspicions flared as he read that Tedak had dealings with most of the dignitaries and clans at the conference. Damn diplomat can't keep his mouth to himself... Taev downloaded all of the information onto a data module and was about to take it up with the Ambassador when the internal communication system acknowledged him.

"Tedak to Lhoell, can you come to my office?" The diplomat didn't wait for reply. "It is important lieutenant, the lives of this crew may depend on it while we are at the outpost."

"I will be there momentarily, Ambassador." Taev cut communications and took the data module. He proceeded to the office.

As he entered, he said, "I assume you have called me here to explain why you seem to have a history with every clan that attends this conference." Taev paused. "Wait. Don't answer that yet. How about I start?" He turned on the data module.........

Tedak turned as the security chief entered his office, smiling wanly. "I don't have a history with every clan but by all means, enlighten me."

Taev screened the first set of words. "When was your first contact with the Che'rek Clan?"

The clan name sounded familiar, but he couldn't remember having met with them. "I'm not sure we met," he replied honestly, "but I recall the name. They were involved in a long feud with the Darani Clan, who will also be attending the conference."

Taev listened with intent, but got little from the information. He skimmed ahead and found another clan of interest. "You were relieved of your command in 2381. During the Empire's conquest of the Annhwi Clan during their uprising, you led an assault that directly dealt with many leaders of the clan. While according to the Empire, you failed in the conquest, yet they are again apart of the empire. I am not here to judge your actions or inactions, however I would like you to recount as much as you can about the events surrounding that conflict and perhaps anything that might put yourself or any of our crew in danger?"

A pained expression crossed the older man's face as memories long forgotten, now resurfaced. "I led the campaign," he confirmed, "we were ordered to quell the uprising and talk them into subservience again. They were then, and still are, subjects of the Empire. We walked into an ambush and my ship was destroyed. My crew got away with their lives, though many others were killed. Casualties on both sides were high, but after a few months, the Annhwi reconsidered and ceased their hostilities. But my failure was my downfall, and I was stripped of my rank. I still live with that shame, and no deed I do, will ever erase that smudge on my records." He thought for a moment. "I met face to face with the clan leader, after he took my pod on board his ship, and was briefly his prisoner, but I was released to my superiors soon after. But not before extensive interrogation." The Romulan's eyes flashed at the humiliation he'd suffered. "I told them nothing worthy of their interest. I told them a great deal, in fact, but nothing that interested them. I was nearly broken upon my release, but not wholly. I killed their clan leader."

He did what? Now that had the potential to present problems. "I see." Taev made note of the incident and moved on, feeling a light sense of pity. "And this brings us back to the Che'rek and the Darani. Apparently, you served as their mediator and ended the feud of two large clans. I also understand that many from both clans hold a grudge for the decisions that were made. Other than directly as mediator, had you any contact with either side during the negotiations?"

"Yes I served as mediator. It was one of my first duties once I became a diplomat. I was still very young at the time, at least, I was considered young but they wanted to see how I'd do. I ended the feud, though I don't remember the details. As mediator I organised meetings with the clan leaders. Seperately at first but later I had them meet. Conditions were written down to end the feuding and the killing, but ten years later, the feud started over again, for the same reasons as it had first started. One of the decisions was that no woman of the Che'rek clan could ever marry a man from the Darani, and no woman from the Darani could marry a Che'rek. Marriages that had already taken place would remain legitimate, but those that were in the planning would have to be called off. Some of those husbands-to-be remarried, some snuck off with their would-be brides. Both clans considered this bride stealing and the warring started again. Honour killings, they labeled it, but we all know better. I was called in again, but I failed to negotiate a new treaty. Me and my aide barely escaped with our lives. I am not looking forward to meeting with them again lieutenant, you can count on that."

The conversation continued for some time, going through several clans and Tedak's interactions with them. Taev had finally come to the end of his list and was ready to conclude the meeting, however, he asked one more question. "There are several clans attending that we have no reason to believe that you had any contact with." It sounded as though Taev was trying to accuse him of something. "I understand that given recent events aboard this ship, it might not seem that way, however, you are a member of this crew and therefore my responsibility. Not that I am trying to insinuate that you make illegal or secret dealings, is there anything else I should know?"

Visibly insulted, Tedak glared at the security chief. "My honour is all I have, I wouldn't waste it on illegal activity," he vowed. "These clans," he tapped their names on the list, "I am unfamiliar with, however I have discovered connections to Govan. I am going to have to inform him to steer clear of these clans, or there will be trouble. Equally, I can try to steer clear of those that may harm me, however I have diplomatic immunity. For them to come at me would cause an incident they can't afford. They'll not touch me, I 'm certain. I'm going to have my hands full on keeping Govan from causing an incident himself."

"I am well aware of the Commander's history, but thank you for the information. If you have nothing else for me I will take my leave." He got up to leave but paused before the door. "I have yet to uncover anything regarding your sickbay incident. If I find anything I will let you know."

"I have told you all I remember from the incident in the readyroom," Tedak replied, "however if you wish to involve a telepath, I will submit to such an inquiry. I know I have told you the truth of what happened. What you are referring to with sickbay incident, I don't understand, I'm sorry. Please elaborate."

Taev raised an eyebrow to the Ambassador's confusion. "Unless you were mistaken, I am referring to the random blood sample the Doctor took from you."

"Oh, that. Yes, please inform me if you discover anything. I am not pleased at the subterfuge he used to gain it, without telling me why he took it. I trust you will keep this from Govan for now? There is no need to further wind him up than he already is. That one of us isn't in his good graces, is bad enough. I can take care of myself, and hough Govan can too, and I know he can, your first duty is to him when it comes to safety. Do you understand?"

"Ambassador, I am well aware of my responsibilities. Everyone aboard this ship will be under guard, including you. Trust is irrelevant and I will not allow any of this ship's senior officers attend without protection." He looked back toward the door. "If you will excuse me, I must return to duty.

The ambassador inclined his head, his eyes smouldering. "I need no protection," he argued, waching the man leave, "don't go at lengths on my account. I can take care of myself. Worry about the other crew instead. Dismissed lieutenant. If you see Tevio, send him my way."

Taev didn't respond to the Ambassador. Whatever he felt, the Ambassador was getting protection whether he wanted it or not. Taev moved along, wondering what this conference would bring.

[Deleted]

The customary red flashing graphics and beeping sound - he was well used to it by now, accustomed to its unsubtlety - lit up the computer display in Tevio's office. He had little time.

Opening the file, he began reading, eyes desperately grasping after the information being sent to him by the Tal Diann central command. Then, without warning, the file was wiped; screen gone blank. He did and said nothing for a while, merely accepted what had happened and tried to reason why the thing had occurred. Unavoidably, though, he ended up growing angry, and rising up inside him was something he'd almost call despair.

That gave way to confusion, though, when the nameless face from before appeared on the screen to replace the blankness that'd seen to doom him. He raised an eyebrow, requesting an explanation for all this.

"Apologies, Legate," the man smiled smarmily, making it clear he certainly wasn't sorry, "We made a procedural change in how we'd next contact you. I'll brief you on the issue myself, then send you a permanent file when you reach the station. Yes, I'm aware the change was last minute," he held a hand up, "But it now means there's no possibility you will lose the information we send because of slowness in reading and absorbing; always a possibility." He added snidely.

"Quite," Tevio replied, not willing to have a petty argument with this ridiculous man, who was doubtlessly unworthy of his lofty position in the Tal Diann command. "My orders?" Tevio asked, when nothing was immediately forthcoming from the man.

The nameless face stepped back, his whole body coming into view, and he swung 'round the desk he'd been sat at before and activated a small info display on its ledge. He spoke, glancing at the information: "The S'Harien's senior staff, including yourself, are about to disembark the vessel to attend a diplomatic function, some sort of reception for an array of dignitaries, ambassadors and so forth... We have special instructions for you, Legate. This person..."

Alongside the Tal Diann officer appeared a graphic, a photo-real 3D simulation of a person's face, along with some small scrolling words that were hard to read. The officer kept speaking, "... This person you see now is a very important individual. His name's Prem'Diset, high ranking dignitary and part of the Kheomab, a clan, that happen to be attending this function... He is an accessory to the murder of almost seventy thousand soldiers. Due to his connections with those who were directly responsible, we believe we can use him to get to those people, but all you need to know is what action to take now."

"Yes," Tevio said impatiently. "So what do you want me to do? Capture him, transport him to some cloaked ship?"

"No, Legate," the man smiled, making a pincer motion with two fingers. "We want you to kill him."

* * *

Tevio spent some time trying to figure out why they'd want the man dead, rather than simply try to capture him. Surely it was easier to do the latter; give him a truth serum, rigorously interrogate, get to the guilty party that way? The only possibility, he thought - while tapping the edge of the intel section's main work counter as he moved along it - was that Prem'Diset's death would draw the perpetrators out into the open, which also meant there were extenuating cicumstances... It must be something very important indeed, for them to come out, reveal themselves; rather than slink further into the shadows and try to evade the Tal Diann.

Still, he thought, as he boarded a turbolift with Sub-Lieutenant Morvhek (his subordinate), he could only follow his instructions, and hope - No. Ensure he wasn't discovered, and ensure that the unfortunate dignitary would not be missed. He headed for the turbolift, unfortunately with the expectation of finding others of the senior staff there. Hopefully they wouldn't talk to him, and hopefully none of them had any reason to be suspicious.

<Tag Taev?, Tedak?>

<Tag All>

[Deleted]

Deciding not to wait for Taev to maybe run into Ch'varak, Tedak walked over to the communications equipment in his office and activated it. "Tedak to Ch'varak, report to my office immediately. This is not a request sir, in fact if it helps consider it an order, however you want it. But it is important you get here immediately."

Tevio had had to stop quickly in the corridor, so he could conceal the subject matter of the comm. call in case it was of a... sensitive, matter. "What is this about?" he whispered, still managing to make his annoyance clear in the hushed tone.

"I can't and won't discuss that with you over an open commlink sir," the Romulan diplomat replied tersely, "if you wish to have your intel files added to, come to me immediately. If not, then do as you please and don't report but it'll be your loss and don't come back to me later whining that I witheld information from you." He paused minutely. "This isn't a request," he added, his tone acid.

Huffing in the secluded shadows of the passageway, Tevio replied to the irksome Ambassador. "Very well... Although, I can't imagine there's much you could say that would give me cause to whine if I didn't seek you out. I'll be there shortly, and this better be quick."

Tedak smiled deviously, though angrily. "I'll see you in a few minutes sir. You may bring any equipment you please to verify my information, so long as you verify it."

"I have everything I need with me, Ambassador." The channel closed on the other end, Tevio touching his precious wrist-device as if it were a priceless jewel. Its uses were many...