Shoreleave 95.1214: I'Kiith Hllue: A Diplomatic Br

[Deleted]

She looked at him with slight annoyance were he not the commander she would have been sure to throw and insult or two. But for the moment at least she managed to hold her barbed tongue. She merely took a deep breath and responded curtly. “Commander I am fully aware of what an order entails, and have no need to be told.”
She straightened out her shoulder and somehow managed to look even more stern and unfriendly. “I will be present for the diplomatic function commander,.. Somebody there needs to be of intelligence.” With that she turned on her heel and walked confidently out of the Commander’s ready room.

Once she left the office she was almost pounced upon by a sub commander he introduced himself, giving her a padd with her transfer confirmation and security clearance and other stuff she would need. He then most annoyingly informed her of the diplomatic meeting. She looked down at the Padd and closed her eyes for a moment taking in a deep breath.

“Thank you sub commander, I have already been informed of the diplomatic meeting, and as I posses a memory span of well over three seconds I have not forgotten, I will be cleaning my new office should anyone have need of me.” She turned and began to walk away but added so it could be heard. “Or someone of intellect, which seems to be sorely lacking here.”

She followed the instructions on the padd until she made it to her new office, she sighed heavily as she looked at the door, almost not daring to see inside. However she mustered the stomach from somewhere and walked in. Her face immediately crumpled in utter disgust, it was about one fifth the size of her last office and much less ornate in appearance but that wasn’t the only problem that was immediately brought to her attention. More annoyingly some of the last occupants belongings were still scattered around. She could just picture the slovenly disgrace of a person that last graced this area. Her eyes fluttered almost into the back of her head as she let out a disgusted sigh.

However like always she was prepared, from one of her bags that had already been left in the middle of the office floor she took out a portable steriliser, and made the very slow but very effective task of destroying every last trace of the last Science chief.

[Deleted]

“Commander, I am fully aware of what our order entails and have no need to be told. I will be present for the diplomatic function, Commander. Somebody there needs to be of intelligence,” the science officer replied coldly before leaving the ready room.

Gritting his teeth, Govan let her go, not liking their newest crewmember one bit so far. She was exactly why he hated science...arrogant, know-it-all intellectuals had to be the most obnoxious people he had to regularly come into contact with on the job…with the exception of morally superior diplomats and back-stabbing Legates. He could only hope that after this blasted conference was done, he wouldn’t have as much contact with the new science chief. It’d be in her best interest if he didn’t.

~

“Thank you, Sub Commander, I have already been informed of the diplomatic meeting, and as I posses a memory span of well over three seconds I have not forgotten, I will be cleaning my new office should anyone have need of me,” she stated before adding, "…or someone of intellect, which seems to be sorely lacking here...” as she left, mumbling more to herself than anything, but loudly enough to be overheard.

His only outward response being a raised eyebrow, Dor’vel waited until the Uhlan had exited the bridge before shaking his head in disbelief. Why did it seem like the S’Harien was assigned every possible type of misfit? He and Taev seemed to be, at least on the surface, the only relatively normal officers, without any baggage or personality issue, maybe Sural, but Govan, Tevio, Tedak, and now the new Chief of Science clearly had their problems. It was like their ship had become some sort of dumping ground for the Navy’s problem cases most likely as a hassle for Echal.

Rising from the chair, nodding to Taev to take the bridge, Dor’vel rang the chime to the ready room and entered the opening door a few moments later. “Pleasant, isn’t she?” the Sub Commander began with a slight smile, “though she may have actually been less...disagreeable with you, seeing as you’re her new Commander.”

“Hardly,” Govan scoffed. “She’s just about the most grating, cold-blooded...” The Commander stopped, and took a deep breath to settle himself. “Fortunately, they don’t seem to last long here, so hopefully her stay will be a short lived as previous science chiefs. She may think she’s the only intelligent person on this ship, but my guess is, she won’t last long, so I will have to put up with her until she runs away.”

“Runs away screaming,” Dor’vel added with a hint of a grin. “She may very well be intelligent, but it takes more than that to make it here. She probably wouldn’t last five minutes in a battle, and most intellectual people don’t have reliable instincts.”

“She wouldn’t last five seconds in a battle with me,” Govan added, his lips curling up in a sneer of pleasure at the idea of taking the irritating woman out. “Plus, she probably has no common sense, facts but no application. At least she came here now, so she will have to suffer through this diplomatic reception with the rest of us.”

~

“Alright, let’s get this over with...” Govan grumbled while the turbolift made its way from the bridge to the umbilical connected to the outpost. “If I look like I’m about to strangle someone, please either stop me or save me the trouble and shoot them.”

A hint of a smile making an appearance, Dor’vel raised an eyebrow. “Is that one of my new official duties?” he questioned, unaffected by his superior’s grumpy mood.

“Yes,” Echal replied without hesitation, even as the displeasure on his face mellowed just slightly. “You’re in an awfully good mood…considering where we’re heading.”

Suddenly feeling strangely guilty, Dor’vel shifted his feet inside his boots. “Well...I did just get promoted yesterday. That’s a pretty big reason to be in a good mood.”

“Hmph,” Govan huffed, his grumpiness again fading just a little. “I wouldn’t be too sure about that. By the end of today, if you’re still all cheery, I’ll shoot you myself.”

“Noted,” the Sub Commander replied stoically, although a glimmer of amusement in his eye returned. Tamir was right about him: very scary if you crossed him, but his bark was worse than his bite most of the time, not that he would ever say that, because that was something that would certainly qualify as crossing Govan Echal.

“This whole thing is ridiculous,” the Commander continued, his ire quickly returning. “What could we possibly learn from watching a bunch of diplomats and politicians arguing and discussing things that no one else cares about, and then attempting to try and ‘mingle’ among them and conduct ‘small talk’ without offending anyone?”

“Your guess is as good as mine…” Dor’vel replied. Although it was another thing he would never say aloud to his Commander, he understood completely what the Romulan Command was trying to do here. They were testing Govan, putting him in one horrible situation after another, trying to get him to screw up, so they could get rid of him once and for all. There was nothing to gain here, at least for the crew, but that didn’t get any of them out of suffering through the misery that was to come.

As the lift drifted to a halt and the doors slid open, Commander Echal sighed heavily before stepping forward into the corridor. He just had to survive this day, and the next, and then the next... Unfortunately, this day particular would be exceptionally difficult. “If Tedak enjoys this thing, then I’m not responsible for what happens next.”

As the command team made their way to the docking port, Govan was trying very hard to stabilize his emotions. He would be provoked into feeling plenty during the day, but maybe he could stand a chance of controlling any outbursts if he could at least occasionally get a handle on his emotions, starting right now. Creating some sort of incident was what Command wanted to happen, and he had no intention of giving them what they wanted if there was even a possible chance of preventing it.

Entering the small room adjacent to the airlock that led to the umbilical connecting ship and outpost, Commander Echal found his senior staff waiting for him. They all had carefully neutral expressions, but he knew that most, if not all, of them would rather be somewhere else...anywhere else. “Alright, our goal here is to manage to make it through this without causing a diplomatic incident or dying of boredom. Now, before we disembark, Ambassador Tedak, is there any information you feel that we should be made aware of, that will help us in avoiding any potential conflicts?”

<Tag All>

[Deleted]

Tevio if you could please moderate my previous post to get your tags in? I really do need you to respond there!

ON:

Tedak paced the room, waiting for everyone to enter. He stopped and turned when Govan spoke, addressing him directly. "Yes Commander, there is," he replied calmly, even though he felt far from. He scanned the faces before him; some he had seen before, others he had not. His gaze briefly held Tavik's, before settling on Tevio, and finally on the new female officer whom he'd not yet been introduced to.

"This diplomatic function is very important to the Empire and we must avoid conflict at all cost." He handed a stack of PADDs to the first person near him. "Pass them around please," he requested, keeping one of the PADDs to himself. "On the PADD, you will see the names of several clans. Some are marked in red, others in green."

He paused, looking around to see if everyone was still with him. "Those marked in red should not be confronted, they are often warring clans, or are in conflict with your commanding officer. Avoid them at all cost, and if they do address you, remain polite. Do not antagonise them, the life of your commander depends on it." He cast Tevio a sharp glance, knowing the intelligence officer had his own agenda. Tedak had his ways of discovering things, and they weren't always the most obvious method.

"Now, the names in green are the clans that we must remain friendly with. Those are allied clans, even though of course they can have conflict with those marked red. However, the green labeled ones are on your commander's good side. Friends, maybe." He paused again. "If there are any names on here that are familiar to you, and that you know you have past grievances with, family feuds or otherwise, we need to know about it now. I have marked those that I have had past run-ins with as blue. Those are the clans that I had best avoid, but as diplomat, obviously I can't. I will do my best to guide you all through this, but restraint is the best applied method. Don't let yourself be dragged into fights, be polite at all times even if the person you're confronted with is someone you hate with all your being. Your commander's career, as well as your own, depends on the success of this event. So, let's attempt to make this a success. If not for your commander, then for yourself."

tag all

[Deleted]

Sural slowly changed from his surgical gear into the smartest uniform he could find. It was hardly wron, unlike other officers he rarely wore the dull grey two piece suit with its eagle wings and diamond markings. He straighted the rank bars and ran a hand through his thinning grey hair.
Where had the time gone, he mused, Life sometimes seemed to pass him by. He wondered briefly if his pursuit of revenge had cost him his life. He realised that it probably had, he was still an Uhlan, unmarried and without children. That realisation did nothing however to quell the zeal with which he pursued his research. Having spent so long and given up so much it would be as the vulcans put it ' highly illogical' for him to abandon it just yet. Not when recent revleations yielded by some of the crew and the Criminal Raltorr offered a tantalising glimpse of success.

Checking himself once more in the mirror Sural decided that he best get moving. A tenous peace had existed between Sural and Govan since his injury and Sural despite his one track mind was aware that success relied on an at least a partially functional working relationship with his CO despite his abrasive and agreeive manner. Sural wondred how much longer the Commander would continue to take his anger for being lumbered with the command on the rest of the crew. Was he even aware that he was doing it.
Sural shrugged to himself nd left his spartan quarters for the main airlock. He found Govan and the rest of the senior staff waiting to disembark,
"I take it that it is too late to say we are too busy to attend, I d be more than willing to issue sicknotes as long as one of you lets me off the hook." he quipped as he waited for the locks to cycle and their mutual punishement to begin.

[Deleted]

"I take it that it is too late to say we are too busy to attend, I’d be more than willing to issue sick notes as long as one of you lets me off the hook," the doctor offered dryly as he arrived at the docking port. It took a bit of restraint on Govan’s part to keep from smirking, a sit seemed that he and Sural were on the same page, but instead, he mustered up as menacing a glare as he could manage before nodding to Tedak to continue with what was no doubt going to be a long, rambling lecture, and unfortunately, Commander Echal’s predictory assumption was exactly right...

Listening to Tedak was beginning to give him a massive headache...and they were still on the S’Harien! The list with all the names and the colors...it was all too much for him, and he was beginning to get very frustrated. Still, somehow, he held his tongue and gritted his teeth together instead of ending this obnoxious prattling with a single, well placed blow to the head. Unfortunately, the object here was to avoid conflict and not get into trouble, and that would get him in trouble before they even arrived at this blasted conference. His old job was so much easier and more fun...

“Alright, so basically don’t tick anyone off,” Govan interjected abruptly the moment Tedak paused long enough to give him a chance to do so. He didn’t know if Tedak was done, but he didn’t exactly care. “Lists and colors aside, just try to say as little as possible, and stick with neutral comments so we can get out of here in relatively one piece. If you get into trouble, don’t look at me, look at him,” he added gruffly, jerking his head towards the Ambassador. “Now let’s just get this thing over with.”

~

The conference had to be one of the most mind-numbingly, migraine inducing, and infuriatingly useless experiences that Govan had ever been forced to endure. All the back and forth, round and round discussions that seemed to go on forever yet end up no where were enough to make him wish he were dead. Even imprisonment and torture would be better than this. Unfortunately, that had been the easy part, and knowing that only made it that much more insufferable. Once it ended, all the animals that had been caged in that accursed room were then released, only to be herded into another, larger room. Despite its increase in size, mild improvement in décor, and the addition of the tables of various delicacies from around the Empire, the loss of their assigned seats identifying them as mere observers made this far more dangerous a location, for now they had to move amongst the bickering and unpleasant diplomats and attempt to communicate without creating any incidents.

It was a highly improbable task, much like walking through a sea of insects with the nearly impossible intended goal of not crushing or being bitten by any of them. In retrospect, that is exactly what Command wanted, for him to fail. Sadly, knowledge of that fact didn’t make this assignment any more pleasant or possible. With a big bite of some barely edible concoction, Govan stood off to the side, unsure of whether appearing pleasant, unpleasant, or some strange combination of the two would make people less likely to approach him. Dor’vel was at his side, and for the record, the man had probably already saved his life and career half a dozen times. Commander Echal had no idea how he had obtained the skills to deal with these people... He only knew that he was immensely grateful for his calming presence.

“I don’t know what this is, but I have tasted better things that fell into my mouth by accident during combat training exercises in the swamps of Derakus III…” Govan murmured in his Executive Officer’s direction, trying to swallow the offending bite.

With barely a hint of amusement, Dor’vel commented back, “It’s called Rielus Gel, and believe it or not, it’s actually supposed to taste like that. It’s considered to be a delicacy, though admittedly it’s an acquired taste. I’ve never cared for it either.”

“Hmph,” Echal grumbled, finally managing to rid his mouth of the slimy substance, if not its lingering taste. “I’ve seen more appetizing items in the tread of my boots, and I’m not entirely sure that’s not where it came from... Just what is it anyway?”

“You don’t want to know,” the Sub Commander replied, and he meant every word. “Oh no...here comes someone else,” he mumbled, trying to gather his patience for yet another encounter with someone who most likely wanted them to screw up… “Have you tried the Verusa pâté? I do believe it’s the best I’ve had in years,” he commented immediately upon their next challenge’s arrival, hoping to take control.

There was a brief flicker that crossed the man’s face before he recovered and then managed to reply. “No, I had not sampled it yet, but I will make sure to do so next time I pass the table. And if I am not mistaken, you are Major Echal, are you not?”

Gritting his teeth into what he hoped was a passable smile, Govan responded. “It’s Commander Echal actually, and this is my First Officer, Sub Commander Dor’vel.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you…I’m sorry I do not believe we’ve been introduced. If we have, I do apologize, but I’ve met so many people, I’m having difficulty keeping track,” Dor’vel jumped in, glad that Govan had caught on to getting him involved.

“Sub Governor Retal of the Grelata Colony,” the man introduced himself. “And I do believe, Ma...Commander Echal, that you were once acquainted with my brother, Berol Tamek? Surely you recall his name,” Retal stated, his voice was tight and forced, clearly attempting to sound friendly, but failing to fully mask his animosity.

He knew the name, unfortunately, and for the third time, he felt a sickening feeling rising in his stomach, indicating that he was indeed about to get into serious trouble. Before he could respond, however, Dor’vel once again, stepped in and intervened.

“What a minute, did you say Grelata?” the Sub Commander chimed in, knowing by the look on his Commander’s face that he had once again stepped into danger without saying or doing anything. “My brother-in-law is the Chief Representative of the Merlov Colony in the third sector’s counsel, and his father is Governor, so you must know them. You may have even met my sister before. Isn’t this fortuitous?”

“I...well yes, I do attend many of the meetings of that counsel, but I do not recall if I met your sister or not. There are many colonies and representatives in attendance at those events,” the Sub Governor replied, clearly distracted. “Now, as I was s...”

“Trust me, if you’d met her, you would remember,” Dor’vel responded with a light chuckle. “She is quite the character, let me tell you….such a bright personality…”

“I’m sure she’s delightful,” Retal commented dryly. “Now about my brother...I’m...”

“Oh no...I’m terribly sorry, but it appears we’re being summoned,” Dor’vel interrupted indicating to several people on the opposite end of the room waving in their direction. “I’m so sorry to cut this short, but it was a pleasure to meet you. Do say hello to my sister the next time that you are attending one of those meetings!”

With that, the S’Harien command team made their hasty retreat, leaving the angry but slightly confused Sub Governor behind. It was clear he was already offended about something, and whatever they managed to say would have no effect on it, so the best they could do was cut and run. “You killed his brother, didn’t you?” the Sub Commander questioned quietly, as they carefully crossed the room…again...

“Yep,” Govan replied succinctly. “And just who are those people waving us over?”

“No idea, but they’re not waving at us,” Dor’vel replied, allowing another hint of a smile to cross his face before quickly erasing it. “Clearly, we had to get out there.”

Nodding, Echal again felt a rush of gratitude, along with a lingering irritation. “Just where is that useless Ambassador? He was supposed to guide us through this...”

Scanning the sea of people as they moved, Dor’vel finally spotted Tedak through the crowd, deep in conversation with two older Romulans. “He’s over there. Let’s get close, and then I’ll see if I can get his attention,” the Sub Commander offered. Never in his entire life did he think all those horrible functions his parents used to drag him and his siblings to would pay off, but it certainly had benefited them today.

“Well go get him,” Govan requested as they arrived at another wall next to some ridiculous looking flowered plant. “I think I can survive a minute or two on my own.”

Though far from convinced of that fact, he knew arguing was pointless, so Dor’vel merely nodded and moved to retrieve Tedak as quickly as possible. This place was like a minefield, and any step could result in an explosion that would cripple them.

<Tag All – Have fun! :-p>

[Deleted]

Once at the conference, Tedak spotted two of his old friends, grinning broadly as he approached them. "Miral, Tefv, it has been far too long. How many years?"

The two Romulans turned, returning a grin of their own, while Miral delicately placed what appeared to be a shrimp between her teeth. "Not since you eloped to that Federation station, my old friend. Though I heard about your son, I truly am sorry to hear about it. It's always infuriating, when the children are targeted to hurt the parent." Tefv grasped Tedak's hand, smiling warmly. "Come there's someone you should meet."

The three Romulans walked off, leaving Govan and Dor'vel to fend for themselves, as well as the other S'harien crewmembers. "This is Ambassador Skorn. And despite his name, he is Romulan, all the way."

Tedak smiled politely at the newcomer, not recognising his name; it hadn't been on his list. "It is good to meet you ambassador," he replied, "my name is -"

"I know who you are," the younger man replied coldly, "you're the one who married a Vulcan, and lived on a Federation station, preaching their ideals." Then he broke in a grin. "I like it!" He reached out to a tray, holding out something to the older man. "Here try this, it's somewhat like Earth kaviar, but it tastes so much better."

Tafv and Miral fell silent, visibly holding their breaths, knowing how Tedak usuall responded to being offered seafood. They relaxed when Tedak merely smiled. "Unfortunately, Skorn, I must refuse. Not to be rude, but because I'd like to get through this conference alive."

Skorn's expression darkened. "You think I'd poison you?"

"Hardly," the older diplomat replied with a smile, "at least not intentionally. I fear any form of seafood will kill me if consumed in larger amounts. Small amounts will make me very ill, so you'll pardon my refusal.."

Laughing, Skorn slapped in him on his still tender shoulder, causing him to hiss in protest. "I like you old man. You've got a sense of humour." He nodded to the uniformed S'harien crew. "Friends of yours?"

Tedak shook his head in response. "Unlikely. I'm stuck with them as much as they're stuck with me. Govan Echal hates me with a passion of his own, and there are times I could flay him alive. But he needs me, so I'll do my best for him. We've already had our first run-in which nearly had me killed. Govan is a very skilled fighter, be very wary of him, and be careful you don't challenge him. The success of this conference hinges on it my friends."

<tag govan on overhearing, and everyone else if they got ideas lol>

[Deleted]

OOC note to Ambassador Tedak: My modified responses are above as requested. I can only sincerely apologise for missing all of this and perhaps frustrating you, if I had been more attentive then it wouldn't have happened. Again, sorry.

IC (Back post for Tedak meeting):
"Here I am, as 'requested'," Tevio spoke, standing in the doorway to Tedak's office. "As I said earlier, this better be quick." He approached Tedak who was standing by his desk and held a hand out, requesting the information in PADD form. It was almost entirely likely that the Ambassador wanted to divulge the information by ear; but it was worth a try if it meant avoiding conversation.. he thought.

<Tag Tedak>

(Present:)

He was standing in the ante-room to the airlock that led to the umbilical, along with most of the rest of the senior staff. He saw Tedak's eyes fall on him briefly; he returned the look, urging Tedak to look away with the intensity of his reciprocated stare. The Ambassador did, but Tevio knew the man was simply glancing cursorily over all of the assembled officers.

Govan entered, speaking and asking if anyone had any questions to put to Tedak. Ch'varak had no questions or comments to direct the Ambassador's way, so he simply remained silent as before, waiting for the moment when the airlock door would roll back, when he would traverse along the umbilical to the starbase that the S'Harien had so surreptitiously connected with.

Down they went, and into this day of hell he entered.

The main part of the senior staff entered the fairly large room ahead, and Tevio could see - from his vantage point at the rear of the group - that there was a larger room through from it. Most of the assembled people were in the process of shifting into the larger room beyond.

Not having time to take in the general atmosphere, as it were, Tevio immediately moved off to the side, out of sight of the rest of the group. He knew each and every person at the conference would have their name on some electronically stored 'guest-list', so he passed his identity to a nearby 'guard', found a way to temporarily excuse himself, and headed to the nearest data download point.

This had better work, and Command better be on it, he thought darkly. Sadly, he could see this going very wrong. What had happened to the days of utmost confidence and assurance..? Where he'd had greater power over the Tal Diann central command, could manipulate them to his will to complete all his tasks with a near hundred percent success rate, and was highly influential. Today everything seemed like an uphill struggle, and nothing was assured.
Sure enough, though, he found his further orders there waiting for him, he having accessed his secure logon to the datapoint.

Quickly he logged out, gathering his datapad from the slot below the screen. He concealed it in a flap of his dress uniform, then discretely headed back the way he had came.
Grimly, he stepped between a pair of retracted and ornately decorated, large doors. He looked up, a grim expression set like stone on his face, and tried to lift it. The result was something close to but not quite neutral.

He'd entered the main audience chamber for the conference, and it was full of blithering diplomatic fools.

[Deleted]

Diplomatic functions in the Romulan Star Empire were always entirely lavish affairs filled with decadent receptions and magnificent buffets. The duplicitous nature of the Romulan people made such functions a festival of back stabbing. Even the terrible things that had happened over the years to the Empire had failed to fully unite them under one banner. Factions shifted as clans and families jockeyed for power making it difficult to know exactly who to trust and who to ally with.

Sural found such meetings nauseating. He noticed that most of the S’hariens crew kept to the edges of the room in small groups whilst Tedak had swarmed forward smiling and hand shaking, obviously in his element. Aside from the mix of Romulan Military officers and diplomats were a small party of Kevratans sat at one of the tables quietly talking to themselves whilst a number of nearby junior aides looked on with contemptuous sneers on their faces.

Sural decided that once things had quietened down he would go over to talk to the Kevratans. Soem years earlier the planet had been the site of a massive Bloodfire epidemic and much of the research done into the fatal disease was conducted by the Kevratans and whilst he didn’t think the diplomats would know much it would sure beat tip toeing around some of the diplomats.

Picking up a drink from a passing tray Sural sauntered across the room. Govan and Dorvel were stood together and he gave them a non-committed nod. Everyone paused and turned to look at the entrance as there a loud noise came from the corridor. Several of the assembled diplomats looked worriedly over whilst others twitched, hands slipping for concealed weapons.

A centurion appeared at the door and then stood to one side as a small party of Remans entered the room clustered around a viceroy level official. The group satisfied that they had made an adequate entrance stood impassively whilst the various diplomats returned to their conversations and then moved over to the buffet pushing aside some of the other delegates to reach the food and drink.

Sural made sure to keep out the way and found himself stood beside an older Romulan diplomat with dark skin and black hair,
“Who invited them?” Sural said by way of conversation, “Remans always lower the tone.”

“That would have been me” the diplomat replied with a wry smile,
Sural gulped and realised he had probably made a major mistake; Govan would not be pleased,

“Oh I m Sorry” is all that he managed to say.

The diplomat extended a hand “And you are?”

“Oh err. Uhlan Doctor Sural Taranek of the IRW S’Harien” taking the man’s hand

The man’s eyes twinkled for a moment,
“The S’Harien. Well Doctor, allow me to introduce myself. I am Ambassador Vebn S’Khellian”

[Deleted]

Dor’vel was a little wary at leaving Govan alone, even for a moment. This whole room was like a minefield for him, as it was clear the Commander had little to no diplomatic instincts, which required more tact than he possessed. As the Executive Officer had jumped in time and time again to prevent an immanent disaster, he just marveled that Echal hadn’t self destructed before. Apparently, diplomacy and tact weren’t required traits for an interrogator. As he approached Tedak, however, it was a completely different scene and atmosphere, which stood out in sharp contrast to the past hour he had spent averting catastrophe. The group was amiable, almost cheerful, talking, laughing, and completely comfortable. Of course, appearances could be deceiving, especially among a group of consummate liars and actors as diplomats sometimes were, but from what he could observe, the Ambassador had managed to find a group of allies in this pit of snakes and would be unlikely to go.

Standing there for several moments, listening to their conversation and reluctantly deciding that there was little chance Tedak would be coerced into leaving such a congenial atmosphere for the potential doom of Govan Echal, Dor’vel finally began to move away. It didn’t even seem like Tedak had noticed his presence at all, but maybe, he could bring the Commander to the group of ‘friends’ Tedak had found. It might be safer, though only if they avoided asking Govan too many questions…

He hurried back, dodging through the crowd, and was grateful to find that Govan was still in one piece and undisturbed, though he looked absolutely miserable. “He seems to have found a group of familiar colleagues,” Dor’vel reported. “I don’t think he even noticed I was there, but perhaps we can join him. It might be safer there.”

Suddenly feeling exceedingly weary, Commander Echal sighed heavily, somehow managing to sound even to his own ears almost like a whine. “If he’s enjoying himself, I doubt I will... Besides, friends of his do not equate to friends of mine and perhaps even the opposite.” Sighing again, this time a little more determined and less wimpy, Govan folded his arms across his chest. “What were they talking about anyway? Just some more fascinating conversation on the food or décor I suppose...”

Smiling slightly, the Sub Commander replied, “Something like that. It seems like he knew two of them and was being introduced to the third, so it was mostly harmless introduction, though apparently, he doesn’t react well to seafood,” he commented dryly. “Other than that, I didn’t really catch anything of interest. I know it might not be the most enjoyable option to join them, but really, do you see anything better?”

Sighing again, back towards whinny, Govan’s shoulders slumped in resignation. “I suppose not. Seeing Tedak enjoying himself will just have to be the finishing touch on my misery. It’s too bad he didn’t just eat that seafood. Then he’d get sick and...” His words trailed off as both men froze and looked at each other, eyes wide, and clearly experiencing the same stroke of brilliance. Neither of them needed to say another word, as their faces both lit up with grim, sneering smiles. It was perfect. “You find...that science woman. He won’t suspect it from her. I’ll find Doctor Sural, so he’ll be prepared to step in when the time is right. We’ll all get out soon enough.”

Nodding, Dor’vel tried not to grin outwardly as he began to weave his way through the crowd looking for the unpleasant scientist. Govan was right; Tedak had not yet met her, so he wouldn’t suspect she’d have any reason to ‘poison’ him, but he was willing to bet that she didn’t want to be here anymore than any of them, and she’d jump at the chance to get out of here. Plus, this would make her a momentary hero.

Finally, after wandering around for several minutes, Dor’vel spotted her, looking as miserable as he’d imagined she would. Next to her was an even more miserable looking Lieutenant Lhoell, apparently trying to make conversation. For a moment, he felt bad for his replacement. Trying to speak to an ice sculpture couldn’t be fun. They both noticed his approach and fell silent, ceasing discussion of whatever it was they were talking about as he arrived. “I’m going to assume that neither of you would mind getting out of here?” he began, noticing what he thought was relief on Taev’s face, nothing from the ice queen of course. “Alright, Commander Echal and I have a plan, and it will require both of you to pull it off successfully…are you in?”

<Tag Kreiala and Taev>

~

Now that he had a goal and could see a way to wake up from this nightmare, Echal was feeling much more like himself. He was also somewhat cheered up by the fact that it hadn’t even required fully expressing the plan, but he knew he and Dor’vel were on the exact same page. He hadn’t felt like a part of a team or like someone had his back in a very, very, very long time, if ever, and he had to admit, he liked it. A few moments after the command team had gone their separate ways, Govan spotted his target, Doctor Sural, facing his direction speaking to someone with his back turned Echal’s way. Whoever he was couldn’t have been important, and the doctor didn’t look particularly comfortable or happy, so it should be easy enough to drag him away. “Excuse me, Doctor, I…” the words died quickly as he stared in a mixture of horror and furry as Sural’s “companion” turned. “You!” he exclaimed.

<Tag Sural and Vebn>

[Deleted]

She stood in the hall surrounded by old fat men discussing things of infinite boredom, and cast an icy glare at anyone who seemed to approach her in the hopes of striking up conversation. It worked remarkably well, not many approached her at all. For a while she found herself hopeful that the entire even could pass without her having to speak a word to any of the cretins in the room. Her plan however had one draw back old fat diplomats got bold in the presence of an unattainable woman when they had consumed enough alcohol. One such man approached her and grinned widely.
She glared at him to no avail he held out a hand to which Krieala scoffed causing him to rethink his approach. He instead puffed out his chest and squared his shoulders as he said. “I am Trelkin Aide to Senator…”

She raised a gloved hand as she cast a look that one would believe could kill. “I do not care for which fool you work.. leave me be.”

He grinned wider as he moved in next to Kriela he placed a hand on her shoulder and replied. “My you are a fiery one.. I like that.” His hand progressed down her back slowly to which she smiled very slightly as she turned head to face him. “Remove your hand or die.” She cast a look of deadly seriousness that lent credibility to her threat, he hand halted and then fell off her back.

He laughed slightly as he pulled a small device out of his pocket, he slipped it in hers as he whispered. “My room, fifteen minutes it will be worth your while my dear.”

He skulked away as she shuddered seething with rage and annoyance, under normal circumstances she would have put the incident out of her mind but this had been w horrid week and she deserved some fun. Looking around the room she smiled when a young man caught her eye and she his.

She walked over and pulled the device out slipping it into his hand she said.. “So boring don’t you think.. lets say you and I find something more.. interesting to do.. say my room in fifteen minutes.” He eagerly nodded as she walked away making sure to stay out of his line of sight. She shook her head as she scoffed. “Too easy.”

She found herself then stood next to someone she recognised from the ship, if she remembered correctly the Tactical officer.

She merely shrugged her shoulders and remarked. “In about twenty five minutes there will be two more names to add to the red collum.”

<Tag Taev>

“I am Kreiala Vyaln Science officer aboard our quant little ship, tell me how often is this sort of thing going to happen I actually have work to do.” Her tone cold and stare colder.

<Tag Taev>

The two were interrupted at that moment by the imbecile she recognised as the first officer. A position he no doubt won by sharing the intelligence level of the Commander that of course in her opinion being very little, he spoke of a plan to get them out of the party and she held her look of disinterest not being one to give anything away through body language.

“Speak your plan quickly, I have no time for games.” She had no doubt the plan was childish but she was willing for the sake of getting back to work to hear it.

<Tag>

[Deleted]

To avoid the diplomatic fools, Tevio required a lot of skill with 'threading the needle', treading out a very precise path between all of the assembled people. He planned in advance, surveying the area to ascertain where the hotspots of conversation were, and where there were groups of people who looked like they might turn to a passer-by for an opinion. He steered clear of the food tables, where those sampling the delicacies were sure to mention their like/dislike of a particular food and so on; a situation where he'd be forced to respond.

Unfortunately, the route he'd followed through with took him close to Ambassador Tedak. His shoulders slumped as he walked; it looked like he might have to interact in some way with the Ambassador.
Well, he thought, I could turn this to some advantage. Besides, Tedak's detailed information to him about some of the clans was bound to come into play. An update on the movement of some of those parties probably could not hurt. He stepped close to Tedak, hovering behind a group of what were clearly the man's friends, and waited for them to take notice of his looming presence.

After enjoying a few more minutes of relatively private and friendly conversation, one of the diplomats gestured. "Someone's watching."

Tedak turned, noticed Tevio, then offered a light bow to his companions. "Please escuse me." He stepped away to join Tevio. "Can I help you?"

"Don't do that, Ambassador." Tevio touched Tedak lightly on the arm, making the Ambassador turn so that he had his back faced to his group of associates. Despite the possibility that Tedak was not pretending to not know him, Tevio was still put out by the man's modest greeting.

The Legate turned slightly, showing Tedak the rest of the room, then spoke quietly to him. "Just surveying the room as one might, Ambassador. Was just trying to pick out our clans we're meant to be avoiding... Is that one of them over there?" He signalled to a small group of people, gatherings of others around them but generally only of one type.

Not quite sure what he wasn't not to do, Tedak listened with interest. He followed Tevio's gaze to the indicated group. "Affirmative lieutenant," the diplomat replied calmly, "those are best to be avoided, however if that turns out to be impossible, under no circumstance bring up the Federation and possible alliances. They are very xenophobic, and generally don't even tolerate Remans among their family."

"You think I'd bring up the Federation?" Tevio asked with disdain, smirking. Of course, he was aware of Tedak's pro-Federation ideas, but he had not time for them and wasn't afraid to conceal it. "If I do get into an unavoidable encounter, and am forced to comment on something, what would be the best course of action?" he asked, interested to hear what Tedak's suggestion would be. "What are they called?"

"Change the subject, or say you have no authority to discuss it," the diplomat suggested. "I am unfamiliar with their clan and they are not known to announce themselves. Unfortunately, I can't tell you their family name." He paused, sipping his tea. "That clan overthere, on the other hand, are supportive of Commander Echal. They too are anti-Federation, but they also have no qualms about announcing their disdain for the Empire's treatment of their hero."

Echal would be much happier over there, Tevio thought distastefully, noticing the Commander far on the other side of the large room for a short time, before he was lost again among the intervening sea of faces. His eyes turned elsewhere while Tedak sipped his tea. "How about this one?" the Legate asked, pointing to a rather intimidating looking group.


::JP Tedak/Tevio TBC:: (Modified by Tevio just to add a small paragraph that was missed, as well as colour separation )

[Deleted]

A broad smile spread across the Ambassadors face as he released the doctors hand and turned to face Commander Echal.

"And Jolan Tru to you too Commander"

Sural looked a little taken aback,

"Do you know each other?"

Vebn nodded and with the deftness of one who uses language as their trade replied before Govan could.

"Indeed Mr Echal here was my Chief of Embassy Security on Assailant. And very good he was too... until he failed on a mission and in rectifying it threatened our position there. Still I m sure he doesnt bear any grudges towards me. After all if it werent for me he would be lanquishing in Federation Prison."

Vebn mood altered then from flippant jibbing to something all the more steely,
"And that is a debt I do not feel has been repaid yet" returning to his up beat banter in a heartbeat he said,
"I m said to say Govan.... may I call you Govan... we are old friends... Your replacement on Assailant is beneath your standards, not enough zeal or ruthlessness."

TAG Govan and Dorvel

"And how are you enjoying life in the Navy - I m sure your coping. Now I m assuming our mutual friend is here somewhere, perhaps you could reintroduce us. I m sure Tedak will be as pleased to meet me as you are."

TAG Govan

[Deleted]

OOC: JP between Tevio Ch'varak and Tedak.

IC:
"The Kheomab." Tedak said.

He stood there, next to the Romulan Ambassador, feeling as if he needed to lean on something to steady himself. He was unable to avert his eyes from the group Tedak had so named. The Kheomab... the object of his secret assignment, standing as a cluster of fancily dressed bodies in amongst the throngs of lesser groups that gathered around them. "I see," he said nodding.
Now he wished that he had not located the clan in the presence of the Ambassador, for along with intelligence, the diplomats could be one of the more perceptive types among Romulans. He glanced at Tedak, hoping the Ambassador's curiosity was not piqued in any way.

"Do you have an interest in that particular group, that you pointed them out, or are you merely learning their names?" Tedak sipped his drink again, appearing inconspicuous as he glanced around. "I'm not quite sure where that group stands, in regards to support to Echal or trying to cause his downfall. However, that's not what we're here for...we are here to assist in making sure this convention doesn't end in war. So, diplomatic behaviour is most important, rather than resorting to weapons we shall resort to exchanging words instead." He smiled pleasantly. "And I can tell you'd rather use your weapons than words, you're a man of action, aren't you?"

"Not at all," Tevio shook his head, feeling mildly insulted by Tedak. "I'm an interrogator, Ambassador, and above all an intelligence officer for the Star Empire. Weapons are not always the first and best solution; not what you'd consider weapons anyway. There's times where indeed, words are the best weapons of all..." He trailed off, allowing Tedak to continue sampling his drink, while fetching something himself from the table behind them. He thought carefully before saying what he'd planned.

"That group, the Kheomab," he said, "I have been given a mission by the Tal Diann which concerns them. I am to survey, and report their movements to my commanders in intelligence. They are interested in their perhaps not-so-obvious stance with several of the other groups, and how they relate to Echal as well." In truth, it was mostly a lie, but the truth in it was he'd been given a special mission on the Kheomab. Hopefully it would appease Tedak's curiosity.

"That is your job, as intelligence officer," the Romulan acknowledged, "it never was my field when I was part of the Tal Shiar. Recon never was either. I was part of research and development, mostly, even though I did command a vessel." He paused, studying the intelligence officer. "I fight my battles mostly using words, occasionally my own hands or my dagger. Other than that, I refuse any other kind of weapon." He smiled tightly. "I'm sure you knew that....you probably gave my security profile a very thorough overhaul, No doubt there's nothing you already don't know...is there?"

He glanced at Tedak briefly, before returning his gaze quickly to the Kheomab clan - dignitaries relating to those around them with something of an imperious edge. "That is probable," he said, then dusted something off his uniform jacket, flicking his hand with distaste, "Of course, there's always the information left off the record. No one has a record that perfectly replicates their true career. We all have things to hide, Ambassador, that's why people like me exist, to seek those things out." He turned to Tedak, slightly threateningly. Hopefully he'd averted any danger of his real mission being uncovered. He made to move past the Ambassador.

Slender fingers folded themselves around the intelligence officer's arm, keeping him in place. "If you aim to threaten me, I am not easily intimidated," he replied, challenge in his voice, "if you try to intimidate them, good luck. I know they are a powerful clan, with strong ties to the Empire. Whatever your mission, tread carefully."

With one look at Tedak's face - the man's marginally taller frame looming over him slightly - Tevio pulled his arm loose. He remained silent, sauntering off into the crowd.

[Deleted]

"And Jolan Tru to you too, Commander," the Ambassador greeted him with his tell-tale smug satisfaction. He was enjoying this far too much, and Govan hated him for it.

"Do you know each other?" Sural questioned, glancing between the two of them.

"Indeed, Mr. Echal here was my Chief of Embassy Security on Assailant, and very good he was too...until he failed on a mission, and in rectifying it, threatened our position there. Still, I’m sure he doesn’t bear any grudges towards me. After all, if it weren’t for me, he would be languishing in Federation Prison. And that is a debt I do not feel has been repaid yet. I’m sad to say Govan, may I call you Govan, as we are old friends, your replacement on Assailant is beneath your standards, not enough zeal or ruthlessness. And how are you enjoying life in the Navy? I’m sure your coping. Now I’m assuming our mutual friend is here somewhere. Perhaps you could reintroduce us. I’m sure Tedak will be as pleased to meet me as you are."

It was all Govan could do not to retaliate. Vebn, as usual, seemed to know exactly what to say to rile Echal, only now, he didn’t see the need to pull his punches so to speak, in a crowded room with plenty of witnesses knowing that they were no longer both assigned to Assailant. His patience had already been stretched quite a bit, but unfortunately just when he felt it couldn’t be stretched further, someone would come along and pull it even more. What really irked him about what Vebn had said was that it had been said to a member of his crew, most likely an attempt to further deteriorate his position on the S’Harien and his reputation with the crew.

“I’m sure he will be as delighted to see you as I am,” Govan stated dryly, once he had managed to gather what was left of his restraint. His mind was already spinning with how to keep the nosey, meddlesome Ambassador out of their plan. If he were to pull Sural aside to explain the plan, Vebn would get curious, and if he just left him behind, that would only deepen his suspicion and guarantee his interference. Unfortunately, that only meant one thing...until the plan was set in motion, Govan would have to stay behind and keep Vebn occupied, not a pleasant notion at all...

“Doctor, I believe Sub Commander Dor’vel was looking for you,” Commander Echal announced, giving Sural a look that would make it an order rather than a comment.

<Tag Sural>

Once the medical officer had departed, picking up on the barely veiled hint, Govan turned back to Vebn, resigning himself to a further patience stretching conversation with his former boss. “I am settling into command just fine, thank you for asking,” he managed, gritting his teeth against the nearly physical pain just ‘pleasantries’ caused him. “How are things back on Assailant? I hope the embassy is doing well.”

<Tag Vebn>

~

“Speak your plan quickly. I have no time for games,” the science chief stated bluntly.

“We’re going to make Tedak sick, and when the doctor escorts him out, we all go.”

She’d wanted quick, so he’d given her quick. Frankly, her entire manner was a bit irritating. If she didn’t want to do it, that would only annoy him further. Kreiala just seemed like the kind of person who grated on your nerves and made things difficult. “I overheard him mention to someone that he doesn’t react well to shellfish, so if we manage to get him to eat some, he’ll get sick and need to go to sickbay. The Commander is speaking with the doctor now to inform him of the plan, so he’ll be on standby, ready to get the Ambassador to sickbay, and us with him out of concern.”

Speaking of whom, it was then that the First Officer noticed the aforementioned doctor heading in his direction, which surprised him, since he wondered where the Commander was. Although the plan had not actually been discussed, this did not exactly fit with that plan. “Doctor, I assume Commander Echal has filled you in on your part of the plan for us to all get out of this reception early?” Dor’vel questioned.

<Tag Sural>

“Ah, well, as I was telling Lieutenant Lhoell and Ensign Vyaln, I overheard Tedak mention that he doesn’t react well to shellfish, so the plan is for Ensign Vyaln, who he has never met and will not suspect, to offer him something with shellfish, and when he begins to react, you step in to take him to sickbay, and the rest of us will follow along, pretending to be concerned perhaps,” the Sub Commander concluded.

<Tag Sural/Kreiala/Taev>

[Deleted]

Rhiana Mhiessan talked across the station's promenade, robes fluttering behind her. She wasn't exactly sure what she was doing here, only that she should be expecting new orders soon. One of the diplomats on the level below the bridge she just crossed, would be her new boss, but she didn't know which.

Pausing, she leaned over the balustrade, looking down at the mob of diplomats, studying them. Them, as well as the ship crew members that mingled with them. Oh how the commanders of those vessels looked out of place, some even downright uncomfortable. She smirked as she pulled away, brushing her long sandy-coloured hair from her face. When she turned, she found herself face to face - quite literally - with a young gruffy looking male who held the hand of a small girl. "What do you want," she demanded, taking a small step back to put some distance between them.

The young man seemed in a hurry, and had a certain air about him that Rhiana didn't quite like. "The child, guard her with your life," he ordered, his voice carrying the authority he had been assigned with. "She is important. Her name is Kassandra, she's 18 months old. That's all I know but more information should be given to you soon enough. My part is done." He thrust the child at her, then dashed off.

Rhiana regarded the child curiously; it was clear the girl wasn't fully Romulan; her skin had an odd pinkish teint to it, despite it clearly being green. Her eyes were an unusual shade of brown, very light and her hair was not like her own. Bewildered, she stared at the child, which stared up at her and looked close to crying. "Don't cry," Rhiana ordered, taking the child by the hand. She had to get down to the diplomats and mingle and learn about them. She had to discover who she would want to serve with, and who she'd try to avoid at all cost.

Carefully, she picked Kassandra up and felt the girl wrap her tiny arms around her neck. "Kasia," the little one whispered at her, "I'm Kasia. Will you take me to daddy?"

Rhiana frowned. "I don't know who your daddy is," she replied calmly as she descended the stairs in a rush. "Hush now...we'll find him one way or another." She rounded the last corner, then was abruptly brought to a halt as she literally walked into someone. The girl was spilled from her grasp, tumbling to the floor. "I'm so sorry!" Rhiana gulped as she straightened, then helped the man she had nearly trampled, back to his feet.

Without looking up, she kneeled to silence the now crying girl, looking frantic. Why oh why did she have to be stuck with a child. She hated children, especially the kind that barely knew how to walk let alone talk. It was that she was ordered to do this, by someone with the authority to do so, or she'd never have taken the child. Rhiana turned. "Diplomatic Aide Rhiana Mhiessan," she introduced herself. "I don't know yet who I'll be assigned to." The 22 year old aide, clutched the crying child to her. "And I don't know who this monster belongs to either, she was dumped on me a few minutes ago."


<Govan >

[Deleted]

Kreiala glared at him for a moment before scoffing and replying curtly. “A predictably stupid plan, one I will have no part in.” Her now looked positively angry, “You expect me to poison an Ambassador, if caught it would be worth life.. and I don’t think you or the Commander would lift a finger to save me.”
She took a deep breath as she examined her gloved hands, the she looked back to the First officer with a smile, “And tell our beloved Commander that only a coward would have someone else do their dirty work.” And as quickly as the smile came it vanished, “And don’t worry your small mind, I have the same inclination to warn the Ambassador as I do to help you, which is none.”

She then looked to the Doctor who had just arrived and said with disdain. “I see medical ethics are alive and well with you.” She turned up her nose and walked off, she brushed aside the First Officer and the Doctor scoffing as she did so.

<tag>

Walking to the other side of the room away from the insufferable fools she had been placed on a ship with she cursed her rotten luck, of all the ships she could have been sent too she got the one that had those people. She looked around and spotted Govan, he wasn’t looking in her direction so she didn’t have to hide the look of displeasure on her face
OOC: sorry for the short post will edit more in when time permits, just wanted to get something for people to respond to up.

[Deleted]

“Doctor, I believe Sub Commander Dor’vel was looking for you,” Commander Echal announced, giving Sural a look that would make it an order rather than a comment.

"I guess I better go make myself more obvious to him then" Sural replied dryly and drifted away.

Once the medical officer had departed, picking up on the barely veiled hint, Govan turned back to Vebn, resigning himself to a further patience stretching conversation with his former boss. “I am settling into command just fine, thank you for asking,” he managed, gritting his teeth against the nearly physical pain just ‘pleasantries’ caused him. “How are things back on Assailant? I hope the embassy is doing well.”

The Romulan Ambassador grin broadened and he looked at Govan with what might have been the tiniest iota of respect. "Very well Thank you. Something I must tell Tedak."

~

“Speak your plan quickly. I have no time for games,” the science chief stated bluntly.

“We’re going to make Tedak sick, and when the doctor escorts him out, we all go.”

She’d wanted quick, so he’d given her quick. Frankly, her entire manner was a bit irritating. If she didn’t want to do it, that would only annoy him further. Kreiala just seemed like the kind of person who grated on your nerves and made things difficult. “I overheard him mention to someone that he doesn’t react well to shellfish, so if we manage to get him to eat some, he’ll get sick and need to go to sickbay. The Commander is speaking with the doctor now to inform him of the plan, so he’ll be on standby, ready to get the Ambassador to sickbay, and us with him out of concern.”

Speaking of whom, it was then that the First Officer noticed the aforementioned doctor heading in his direction, which surprised him, since he wondered where the Commander was. Although the plan had not actually been discussed, this did not exactly fit with that plan. “Doctor, I assume Commander Echal has filled you in on your part of the plan for us to all get out of this reception early?” Dor’vel questioned.

"I understand you were looking for me" Sural said, sidling up to the small group and casually draining the last dregs of liquor from his glass.

“Ah, well, as I was telling Lieutenant Lhoell and Ensign Vyaln, I overheard Tedak mention that he doesn’t react well to shellfish, so the plan is for Ensign Vyaln, who he has never met and will not suspect, to offer him something with shellfish, and when he begins to react, you step in to take him to sickbay, and the rest of us will follow along, pretending to be concerned perhaps,” the Sub Commander concluded.

Sural shrugged, He had made such an offer before the crew had disembarked, "Does the Ambassador know you intend to poison him or is that not relevant?" he asked pointedly.

“A predictably stupid plan, one I will have no part in.” Her now looked positively angry, “You expect me to poison an Ambassador, if caught it would be worth life.. and I don’t think you or the Commander would lift a finger to save me.”
She took a deep breath as she examined her gloved hands, the she looked back to the First officer with a smile, “And tell our beloved Commander that only a coward would have someone else do their dirty work.” And as quickly as the smile came it vanished, “And don’t worry your small mind, I have the same inclination to warn the Ambassador as I do to help you, which is none.”

She then looked to the Doctor who had just arrived and said with disdain. “I see medical ethics are alive and well with you.” She turned up her nose and walked off, she brushed aside the First Officer and the Doctor scoffing as she did so.

Sural couldn't help a small chuckle at Dorvels face as the Uhlan swept away. Her remark to him about ethics was like water off a ducks back. He wasn't so naive to think that ethics were a necessity in the Imperial Romulan Navy. Far from it, it was an impediment to promotion.

"Shes quite an idealist" he nodded in her direction, "One of our new breed of Romulan. Ferocious but with morals. Quite a dichotomy. I see no reason not to oppose the commander on this one. With him it is best to pick your battles and this is most definitely one I can let him win. So whats my cue. The Ambassador turning greening and emptying his stomach?"

TAG all

[Deleted]

“Does the Ambassador know you intend to poison him, or is that not relevant?" the doctor asked, but before Dor’vel got a chance to respond, Uhlan Vyaln interrupted.

“A predictably stupid plan, one I will have no part in. You expect me to poison an Ambassador. If caught it would be worth life, and I don’t think you or the Commander would lift a finger to save me. And tell our beloved Commander that only a coward would have someone else do their dirty work. And don’t worry your small mind. I’ve the same inclination to warn the Ambassador as I do to help you, which is none.” With a glance toward Sural, she added, “I see medical ethics are alive and well with you,” before she stormed off, sweeping past the both of them with a very icy look.

Biting his tongue and tensing his muscles to restrain the urge to lash back in kind, Dor’vel briefly considered that this must be how Govan felt all the time. The woman tried his patience and aggravated him to no end. What a horrible, arrogant, cold...

"She’s quite an idealist,” Sural commented dryly, interrupting the First Officer’s inner rant. “One of the new breed of Romulan, ferocious but with morals, quite a dichotomy... I see no reason not to oppose the Commander on this one. With him, it is best to pick your battles, and this is most definitely one I can let him win. So what’s my cue? The Ambassador turning greening and emptying his stomach?" the doctor questioned.

Gathering his patience, pushing the immense frustration he was still feeing toward the Science Chief, Dor’vel forced his attention back on the problem at hand. “You move when you see enough indication that he’s in distress and for it to be obvious to others. If you move too soon, it will be apparent that you were looking for it, but if you wait too long, he might get too sick. We’re not trying to kill him after all...” he added, leaving off ‘in spite of how much we might want to.’ “It appears I will have to do this myself. He would suspect the Commander, and you two haven’t exactly gotten along with him. Our only quarrel has been in a matter which I do not believe will negatively impact his opinion of me.” In truth, his being overprotective of Tamir, albeit towards Tedak, might have improved his standing in the Ambassador’s eyes.

“Alright, here’s the new plan,” he said, quickly reformulating the original idea with Kreiala to work without her and glancing between Sural and Taev. “Doctor, you’ll position yourself close to Tedak where you can observe him without his noticing. As I said, once he begins showing obvious signs of distress, you step in and insist he return to the S’Harien. Lhoell, you also find a position to observe from unseen.” Finally beginning to feel his anger fading with his focus back on the ‘mission,’ the XO continued. “Once I’ve offered Tedak something and he’s eaten it, I will locate the Commander, and you, Lieutenant, will join the doctor. Once Tedak becomes ill, you will then move to our location to ‘inform’ us of the Ambassador’s condition. Then, we get out of here, except for the Legate and her. They fend for themselves.”

Feeling a slight rush of satisfaction at the idea of Tevio and especially Kreiala stuck in the reception on their own, he allowed a tiny hint of a smile before continuing. “I will go and sort out the food situation. You two find your locations. I will not make a move until you are established and indicate that you are prepared,” Dor’vel added. “Now, let’s get this over with,” the XO concluded before moving off for the tables.

<Tag Sural and Taev>

~

"Very well, thank you. Something I must tell Tedak," Ambassador S’Khellian replied.

Biting back a groan, as it seemed Vebn was intent on locating Tedak immediately, Govan quickly wracked his brain for something, anything, to keep the Ambassador distracted. Fortunately, his intellectual exercise was cut short, as he was suddenly bowled over from behind by an unidentified assailant. Instantly on alert, Echal had instinctively, rolled over as his shoulder hit the ground, shifting his weight to better position himself to protect against any additional threat and identify the source of the shove. The first thing he saw was a little girl, couldn’t have been more than two, sprawled on the ground and beginning to cry, causing him to feel absolutely terrible. Had the Commander been granted enough time to think things through, he would have realized that a child her size couldn’t have shifted one of his boots even with every ounce of weight and strength, but as his initial assessment was that he had somehow injured her, his first reaction was one of guilt. The second thing he saw was a young woman, slightly flushed, who was quickly moving to help him up. “I'm so sorry!" she stammered, attempting to help him up, but as he was uninjured and on his feet, they merely ended up standing up together simultaneously. She had not even looked at him and quickly moved to the girl on the floor, though without the care and compassion one would expect of a mother. "Diplomatic Aide Rhiana Mhiessan," the aid introduced herself as she stood with the girl, still sobbing, in her arms. “I don't know yet who I'll be assigned to, and I don't know who this monster belongs to either,” she said, adding, “She was dumped on me a few minutes ago."

Managing to hide his horror at her referencing the innocent, potentially injured child in her arms as a monster, Govan gritted his teeth to hide his disdain. This woman was unfit to be entrusted with the girl, but with Vebn right there, he most certainly couldn’t voice his opinion or do anything about it without ruining his reputation and revealing a weakness. The Ambassador was not someone you wanted to know your weaknesses. “You should be more careful,” he stated evenly, glaring angrily in her direction. “You could have injured someone…let alone a child so young. Clearly, whoever entrusted you with her care has made a poor and incompetent selection.”

<Tag Rhiana>

The girl was still crying, and Govan wanted so badly to snatch her out of the aide’s arms and attempt to comfort her, but that was not an option, especially not in this room. Over Rhiana’s shoulder, as she attempted to explain, apologize, or whatever, he spotted the new Science Chief looking in their direction with a sour expression. Without time to think it all the way through, Echal merely saw an opportunity to get the girl away from this incompetent aide. “You…Vyaln,” he called, not particularly caring whether she wanted to do this or not. Once she arrived, he again glared at Mhiessan and ordered, “Give her the child, as you are clearly unfit to care for her.”

<Tag Rhiana and Kreiala>

~

Grabbing a plate and retrieving a selection of bite-seized, appetizer-like items, the First Officer moved off and carefully began to rearrange his plate. There were two of three different items, including the seafood option Tedak declined. After several moments, he’d eaten both, leaving a bite of seafood behind, which he had hidden within several of the other options, and now, he was prepared to make his move.

After making eye contact with Sural and Taev, who were both in position and had nodded to indicate that they too were ready, Dor’vel had casually moved in Tedak’s direction, attempting to appear as bored as possible. As he ‘noticed’ the Ambassador nearby, making sure his ‘discovery’ had been seen, the Sub Commander headed straight for Tedak. “Hello, Ambassador,” he greeted, semi-pleasantly, though far from happily. “Have you seen Commander Echal? I’m not sure where he’s gone.”

<Tag Tedak>

[Deleted]

In part a JP with Govan Echal as Dor'vel

OLD:
“Hello, Ambassador,” he greeted, semi-pleasantly, though far from happily. “Have you seen Commander Echal? I’m not sure where he’s gone.”

NEW:
Tedak turned to regard the first officer, carefully sipping his (non-alcoholic) drink. "Greetings Dor'vel. No I haven't seen the commander though I must admit I've been a little too pre-occupied to pay attention to him."

“I tried to stay with him, prevent catastrophe when I can, but I went to get a snack, and now I can’t find him,” Dor’vel admitted sheepishly indicating his full plate. “I just tried this one, and it’s really good. I grabbed two, so would you like to try the other one? I probably should only eat one of each, or you’ll have to roll me out of here.”

The ambassador smiled, inspecting the plate. “That does smell nice,” he admitted as he reached for one of the appetizers and took off a small bite to test it. It didn't taste funny, in fact it tasted quite good. “What is it?” he asked as he chewed carefully.

Face perfectly composed, Dor’vel replied, “I think they called it a reiari puff, some kind of fancy pastry with cheese and meat.” ‘And a little shellfish...’ he thought to himself as he reached for another. “Hey, that one’s good as well. Try that one too.”

Dutifully, only to please the first officer and not antagonise him in any way, Tedak tried the indicated pastry, which also didn't taste too bad. “I am rather fond of cheese,” he added to his earlier admission, “as long as it isn't blue. Humans have this cheese called Danish Blue, it tastes as foul as it smells, trust me.” He washed the pastry down with his drink, frowning as he felt something burn in his throat. He shrugged to himself, putting it down to something spicy that was mixed through the pastry. “Thank you sub-commander, this was quite thoughtful of you.”

*“Don’t mention it,” Dor’vel replied, glancing around through the crowd as if looking for someone. “You know, I should really probably find Govan... He could be about to get into trouble any second now, if I’m not already too late of course,” he added with a smile. “I’ll be sure to find you should I require any help. We might need it...”

“Yes you probably should. Govan is sort of a disaster waiting to happen at this kind of function, despite him being a brilliant tactician.” He made a motion of dismissal. “I'll be around here, I'm not going anywhere.” He gestured towards an upper level. “I saw some friends of mine up there, if you need me, I'll be there and if I'm going to be elsewhere I'll be sure to let you know. Is that sufficient?”

“Thanks, I appreciate it,” Dor’vel replied, offering another smile as he moved back through the crowd. He made eye contact with Sural and nodded once to indicate he had succeeded, and then again with Taev to let him know to join Sural. That had been so easy...almost too easy. Clearly, he had missed his calling. If only his Tal Shiar instructors could see him now... But right now, he really had to find Govan.

Tedak watched the younger man leave, shaking his head. How he could be so in tune with Govan, it was beyond me. The man deserved better than the treatment he was receiving, also the way he walked on egg-shells around the nurse, Tamir. Both deserved a chance to be happy, hopefully together, but as long as Govan stood between them, Tedak didn't see any of that happen.

Again, he shrugged to himself, reconsidering because it really wasn't his business who got involved with who, and who was caught in between. Absently, he scratched at his throat, which was increasingly feeling as though it was burning, while he made his way up the stairs. He coughed a few times, then finished his drink in one drain, hoping that'd help.

By the time he reached his friends, the burning intensified and started to spread through to his abdomen. “Are you all right?” one of his companions asked, clearly concerned.

Tedak nodded, wondering what could be going on. He was barely focused on his companions, trying to remember all that he had consumed, or had touched. Had anyone managed to slip him something? The diplomat blinked a few times, clearing his vision. “Excuse me,” he murmured as he walked away, back to the stairs. He had to find the doctor; something was definitely wrong, but what?

He quickened his pace, gasping for breath, feeling his heart racing in his side. He folded an arm across his abdomen, applying pressure in an attempt to forgo the burning feeling. Feeling his throat constrict, he then knew it must've been something he ate. “Sural!” he called out, his eyes searching the crowd, knowing S'harien's chief medical officer was about somewhere. He was halfway down the stairs when he felt his legs fold under him and he felt something snap as he tumbled down the remainder of the steps.

He was gasping for breath as he struck the deck, eyes wide and searching, thrashing as he desperately tried to breathe. The allergic reaction to the shellfish in the appetizer he'd eaten had caused his throat to swell up, and the reaction had spread to his other organs, last of which is heart. Just as a crowd gathered, he went into cardiac arrest, his body going limp.

Rhiana, having seen the diplomat fall, thrust the child at Kreiala, wanting nothing more to do with it, and rushed forward, pushing through the crowd. She stopped and gasped. “Is he...” she started, kneeling beside the doctor. “No, he's still breathing look...he's struggling.”

[Sural take it from here ]

[Deleted]

She walked over half expecting an aggravated speech from Govan, instead she once she was next to him she found herself ordered to take a child off the hands of a younger woman.

Before she could reach out and take the young girl a scene broke out on the other side of the hall, She looked over an rolled her eyes it was no doubt Tedak having a reaction. Suddenly the girl was thrust upon her and the young woman sped off.

Had it not been for the young ears present Kreiala would have made sure to chastise the young woman for carelessness instead she looked at the young girl and said. “Do you have a name sweetheart?” she shuffled the girl around in her arms and held her carefully the watchful eye would have spotted she was no novice when it came to handling children.

Kasia," the child replied softly, trying hard to rub the tears from her eyes. "Mommy called me Kasia"

Kreiala looked around and decided to move as far away from the spectacle that had become of the poor ambassador as possible, people rushing to help or merely get an eyeful would no doubt have no qualm knocking her over. She carried Kasia over to a table filled with the sweet food. She looked over the table and the looked to Kasia and said. “Well I happen to know the best medicine for tears is yummy sweets you tell me what you want.”

The girl's eyes went big at seeing so many sweets. Her mother never let her have any! Randomly, she pointed at something. "What's that?" she asked, clinging to the woman who held her, who had carried her away from the others. "What is your name?"

Looking down at what the small finger was pointing too Krieala replied. “That is chocolate covered parelt fruit, good choice.” Using her free hand she placed some on a plate and then randomly selected some other foods she knew children loved to eat by the load full. She picked up the plate and then said. “My name is Krey – ala Vee – Yaln.” Saying her name phonetically so the child could grasp how to say it.

"Kreyla," the child repeated dutifully, trying her best to get around the syllables. "I'm hungry..."

She carried the plate and the child to the far wall of the room and sat her down in one of the chairs, “Here you go.” She handed the girl the plate and said. “We can sit here and you can eat.” She sat next to Kasia and scanned the room carefully with her eyes. She didn’t see anyone looking at them overly concerned, she then asked. “Kasia.. is your mommy or daddy here?”

Mommy left," the girl replied, sadness touching her eyes, "I don't know my daddy." She stuck the piece of chocolate in her mouth and chewed carefully.

She looked at Kasia carefully and nodded slowly, her heart sank for a moment as she watched the girl, Kreiala slowly reached into her left pocket and pulled out a tricorder, she scanned the girl next to her discreetly and once she had done that pointed it out to the main room. It took a while but eventually it told her there was a presumptive match. It was a crude way of doing it and far from conclusive but the sooner she could find a relative of Kasia the quicker she would feel better.

She took the girls hand and said. “Follow me Kasia.. I have to find a friend.” She followed the tricorder finding herself closer and closer to the mass of people around Tedak.. eventually she was standing mere inches away from him and then it clicked in her mind.. she looked from the Ambassador to the girl and muttered “Oh just perfect.”

The irony didn’t escape her, minutes ago she had refused to poison the man and now she was stuck with one of his relatives.

[Deleted]

Before either woman could comply with his order, Dor’vel approached just as there was some sort of incident occurring in the direction his First Officer had come from, and the two exchanged a knowing glance. ‘Well that was quick,’ Echal thought to himself, momentarily torn between ensuring the child was safe and getting to the Ambassador as part of their plan. He debate was ended when the aide practically shoved the child into the Science Chief’s arms and ran off in the direction of all the commotion. ‘Careless kid...’ Govan commented to himself, shaking his head, and much to his a surprise, a glance at Kreiala revealed not only was she being more carefully with the girl, but she was actually clearly quite adept at caring for children. That had not been something he expected when he initially made the order, but it worked out in everyone’s favor. Nodding once in Dor’vel’s direction to indicate he was ready to proceed, the Commander headed off in Tedak’s direction, leaving the child in Vyaln’s care and completely forgetting about Ambassador Vebn’s presence.

<Tag Vebn>

Dor’vel didn’t know what was going on before his arrival, but he had glanced with confusion between the child in Kreiala’s arms, the unknown elder diplomat, and his Commander trying to figure out what was going on, not to mention who the young woman was who took off as he showed up and what part she had played in whatever happened. As Govan nodded and began to move in his direction, the Sub Commander raised an eyebrow at Echal in question, but voiced nothing out loud.

“I’ll tell you later,” Govan mumbled as they made their way through the crowds, to see what the commotion was about, although they already knew. When they were finally close enough to see, they were both actually shocked to see Tedak on the ground in more distress than they had anticipated. The pair stopped in their tracks and exchanged a look staying back until it was made clear what they should do...

Feeling absolutely terrible, Dor’vel watched as Sural worked on Tedak. He hadn’t expected it to be this bad, just a mild reaction, maybe a rash and some wheezing, but nothing like this... For a moment, the Sub Commander wondered if there was a chance he’d killed the Ambassador, which certainly hadn’t been his intent. This wasn’t supposed to be happening, not like this. Who would have thought that the intentional poisoning of someone with something they were allergic to could go so wrong...? They hadn’t anticipated this, and the First Officer felt unbelievably guilty.

Not knowing what exactly they should be doing, Govan glanced up as Lieutenant Lhoell joined them. His face looked as grim as well. This wasn’t part of their plan. The three S’Harien crewmembers just stood there watching, no one saying a word. In spite of the loud murmuring of the crowd, the silence between the three of them seemed to stretch endlessly. A few moments later, Echal noticed Kreiala moving to join them, tricorder in one hand and the tiny hand of the little girl in the other. It seemed wrong somehow for such a young child to see this, yet she seemed quite happily distracted by the plate of treats she had. Clearly, he had chosen correctly for the girl to be handed over to her. It was then he realized that she was supposed to have given Tedak the shellfish, but given the timing, it was obvious she hadn’t, so what had happened? This hadn’t gone according to plan in more ways than one.

Glancing among his senior staff, most of whom were represented in some capacity, he briefly wondered where Tevio was, as the only one not present. ‘Probably up to some nefarious scheme,’ he though to himself ignoring the irony of the fact that his own nefarious scheme was probably causing far more trouble at the moment than the Legate’s, if indeed he was involved in something. Unfortunately at this point, all any of them could do was wait, wondering what the consequences would be…

<Tag All>

[Deleted]

He quickened his pace, gasping for breath, feeling his heart racing in his side. He folded an arm across his abdomen, applying pressure in an attempt to forgo the burning feeling. Feeling his throat constrict, he then knew it must've been something he ate. “Sural!” he called out, his eyes searching the crowd, knowing S'harien's chief medical officer was about somewhere. He was halfway down the stairs when he felt his legs fold under him and he felt something snap as he tumbled down the remainder of the steps.

He was gasping for breath as he struck the deck, eyes wide and searching, thrashing as he desperately tried to breathe. The allergic reaction to the shellfish in the appetizer he'd eaten had caused his throat to swell up, and the reaction had spread to his other organs, last of which is heart. Just as a crowd gathered, he went into cardiac arrest, his body going limp.

Rhiana, having seen the diplomat fall, thrust the child at Kreiala, wanting nothing more to do with it, and rushed forward, pushing through the crowd. She stopped and gasped. “Is he...” she started, kneeling beside the doctor. “No, he's still breathing look...he's struggling.”

Sural pushed himself through the crowd to approach the Ambassador. The stupid man had attempted to negotiate the stairs whilst under his attack and the fall had probably worsened things. Reaching for his medical tricorder Sural ran it swiftly over the Ambassadors prone form.

"Anaphylactic shock" Sural noted trying to let an edge of surprise mask that he was well aware of what was wrong. He frowned as he registered that the fall down the stairs had opened up some internal injuries sustained during Tedaks fight with Govan and caused a new fracture to one of his ribs.

"This man need medical attention" sural noted and turned to reach his comm unit, "Sural to S'Harien prepare for a medical emergency." he received an affirmative from Tamir and then glanced at Govan. The Commander gave a curt nod and after a second call Sural and Tedak disappeared in a transporter beam.

Rematerialising in sickbay Tamir was ready for them and very quickly Tedak was on a biobed. "Prepare a broad based Antihistamine injection" Sural suggested "and prep the osteofuser. The fool has broken a rib I think."

TAG Tamir.

[Deleted]

Having stirred up the diplomatic function once with his arrival of the Reman entourage Vebn had hoped to stir things up again by baiting hid old colleague Tedak. It seemed however that the Ambassador was more than capable of doing that on his own. He watched with mild amusement as the Romulan wheezed for breath, went bright red and then fell down the stairs.

The S'hariens doctor was quickly at his side. The man was almost perfectly placed to reach the Ambassadors side swiftly, were in not the distraught look on Dorvels face Vebns scheming mind might have decided that the whole thing was part of an elaborate plan. He moved up to join the growing throng of on lookers to stand beside Govan and a female science officer.

"I do hope Tedak is alright" not trying hard to sound sincere "It seems as if he needs your assistance as bodyguard once more."

TAG Govan

"I suppose this means you will be leaving the function." Vebn said dryly "Why you couldn't possibly stay here whilst your diplomatic officer fights for his life in your sickbay. No best you leave. I ll take notes if you like. I wouldn't want you to miss anything, not know that your career is so.... vulnerable. Of course..." he paused and lowered his voice "I could always help you out with that provided... well... provided certain things were done. " Then in his normal voice "We'll talk again soon I m sure. Good day to you Miss" he nodded to Krieala and swept away from the group and back to the small group of Remans.

[Deleted]

"This man needs medical attention," Sural finally stated the obvious before opening a comm channel. "Sural to S'Harien, prepare for a medical emergency,” the doctor ordered, and when he glanced in Govan’s direction, the Commander gave him an abrupt nod before watching as the duo vanished in the haze of the transporter beam.

Now, Echal was unsure of what to do next. Surely it would be understandable for them to follow doctor and patient back to the S’Harien, especially considering the clear severity of Tedak’s condition...wasn’t it? Dor’vel certainly looked concerned, obviously the instrument of the reaction. Govan had to admit not feeling particularly bad about the situation, in spite of the fact that he probably should. Of course, were he in the Sub Commander’s position, he might feel differently...or if Tedak didn’t survive. "I do hope Tedak is alright," the semi-sarcastic voice of Vebn commented from behind the group. The Commander had completely forgotten about him… "It seems as if he needs your assistance as bodyguard once more,” s’Khellian added.

Ignoring the glances from Taev, Dor’vel, and Kreiala, probably wondering what he could possibly be talking about, Govan once again gritted his teeth as his replied. “That man could have a fleet of bodyguards and still somehow end up in danger,” Echal added just as dryly. “My proximity doesn’t seem to have much of an effect.”

"I suppose this means you will be leaving the function. Why you couldn't possibly stay here whilst your diplomatic officer fights for his life in your sickbay. No, it’s best you leave. I’ll take notes if you like. I wouldn't want you to miss anything, not while knowing that your career is so...vulnerable. Of course...I could always help you out with that provided... well...provided certain things were done…" Vebn suggested, his voice lowered and in a conspiratorial tone momentarily before returning to normal almost instantly. "We'll talk again soon, I’m sure. Good day to you, Miss," he added in Kreiala’s direction before he turned and disappeared into the crowds.

“I’m sure I will,” Govan grumbled after him. He had forgotten just how irritating and grating his former boss could be, with the comments about his tenuous career and the barely veiled suggestion that not only could he help but also that he could just as easily make Echal’s life even more miserable than it already was should he fail to agree to whatever horrific favors the Ambassador could come up with... Yes, he would not doubt be hearing from Vebn again, unfortunately sooner than he’d like.

He was right about one thing...it was time for them to make their exit. “We’ll return to the S’Harien. Vyaln, you will continue to care for the girl in sickbay and on the S’Harien until her parents can be located. You, aide, come with us, as you will be who they contact in regards to her rightful guardians,” Commander Echal announced before heading for the exit, expecting all to follow him, and that included Rhiana...

<Tag Vyaln, Taev, and Rhiana>

~

=/\=Sural to S'Harien, prepare for a medical emergency,=/\= Sural’s voice sounded over the comm, disrupting the tranquil, and almost boring, atmosphere in sickbay.

Wondering what happened, or more specifically who had gotten into trouble, the nurse responded, “Acknowledged, Doctor,” and moved with several other medical personnel to the primary biobed to ready themselves for whoever their patient was.

“What’s your bet? Commander Echal get into trouble again?” Tamir overheard one of the doctors remark. “Or do you think the Legate had an operation gone wrong?”

“Nah, my money’s on Ambassador Tedak. He always seems to end up hurt,” the other replied. “Besides, the Commander and Legate can hold their own, but the...”

The rest of the response was cut off by the transport, and a few moments later, the second doctor’s prediction was confirmed. Tamir might have found it mildly funny, had his condition not immediately appeared serious. Tedak’s face was ashen, no movement or response visible from his unconscious form. "Prepare a broad based anti-histamine injection and prep the osteo-fuser. The fool has broken a rib I think."

Quickly, Tamir retrieved the high-dosage hypospray vial and administered the drug to the Ambassador. There was an almost immediate improvement in color, but he still looked strangely pale grey-green. The scan was still running, so it wasn’t clear just what had happened, but based on Sural’s orders and the slight improvement an anti-histamine injection had caused, obviously, he’d had an allergic reaction of some kind, but the physical injuries and an only minor response meant there was probably more to it than that. All she could do at the moment, however, was to get the osteo-regenerator as ordered, do her job, and hope that Tedak would be alright.

~

Not much was said on the way back to the S’Harien, as an eerie silence hovered over the group. Looks were exchanged all the way around, but no one dared say a word. With the exception of Rhiana, they were all probably thinking the same thing, or at least similarly. Govan tired to keep his eyes fixed ahead, with the exception of an occasional glace in Dor’vel’s direction, but his eyes kept wandering unbidden to the little girl, still happily munching on her snacks. He was a sucker for kids, he at least would admit as much to himself to a degree, but that didn’t mean he didn’t try his hardest to pretend or at least appear like that wasn’t the case. Little girls in particular were just so sweet and adorable, and this one was no exception, oblivious to the drama and tension around her, perfectly content to enjoy her plate of treats.

Now that she was out of the incompetent hands of the young diplomatic aide, who penitently followed behind ad stayed quiet, his instinct was to find a replicator and create a whole pile of toys. He didn’t really know why that was his first inclination, but it seemed to be unavoidable. At least it was less obvious than picking her up or playing some kind of game, but it was still far too...nice for his reputation to survive. The child almost looked familiar, but that was ridiculous, most likely a result of his desire to find some kind of excuse to be protective, which he would not indulge, if he could help it that is. He’d be a lot safer once she was securely with her parents.

As the somber group arrived in sickbay, they stayed back watching as the medical team worked. The steady sound of the Ambassador’s heartbeat at least assured them that he was alive, for the moment. Everyone seemed to be hard at work, which in some ways was good and in other ways was not. They couldn’t really even see Tedak from the door with all the people hovering around him in the way. In spite of the fact that it had worked in getting them out of the reception, Echal was starting to think that maybe this wasn’t such a great idea after all…just too much trouble.

Eventually, Tamir separated from the group with a glance at the little girl before she headed for the Commander. “He is stable for now,” she reported, not needing his invitation to do so. “He had an allergic reaction to something, which triggered a mild heart attack. Sural said he was on stairs, and the fall caused some minor injuries: a broken rib, some internal bruising, and it reopened his previous shoulder wound. He is stable, as I said, and should recover. The swelling has gone down, but that reopened shoulder injury and the fall caused some bruising to the lungs, which is contributing to his trouble breathing. We have him on a respirator and a pulmonary support unit to help keep his blood oxygen up while we repair the tissue damage.”

Nodding, Govan again glanced once at Dor’vel. “Once he’s fully stabilized, if you and Sural could take a look at her,” he requested, indicating the little girl. “She took a...fall as well, and I want to make sure she’s alright,” he added, glaring pointedly in Rhiana’s direction. “Perhaps your medical records will have some indication of where she belongs. She...” he continued, indicating to the aide. “...doesn’t know.”

Looking again at the girl, still cheerfully eating, and with a quick glance toward the young woman, Tamir nodded. “I’ll tell him, and I’ll keep you updated,” she promised before moving back towards the biobed, hoping that Tedak would be alright soon.

<Tag All>

[Deleted]

Not sure whether she actually wanted to since, as far as she knew, she had no business aboard the S'harien, Rhiana Mhiessan followed the group of officers at a slight distance. All the while she kept her eye on the science officer, who was still entertaining the child. Rhiana was glad to be rid of her, she had no tie to the child and it had simply been thrust upon her. Besides, she had no idea whatsoever on how to care for a childl; she had no motherly instinct that she was aware of.

The fuss around the ambassador seemed to continue, and as they were taken to sickbay, the young aide studied the stricken man, whom she presumed to be around his fifties. Despite his age, even though fifty was still quite youthful for a Romulan, he looked fairly hansome and she found herself wondering if he was attached to anyone. Even though his name was familiar to her, she had never thought to dig through official files to see what he was all about. Thus, she knew extremely little of him.

Of the child, still clinging to Kreiala, she knew even less, other than that she was approximately 18 months old, and had a Romulan parent. And of course, as she'd been told, that she was fairly important, which obviously meant that her Romulan parent was important.

A little anxious, she waited for the medics to return with news, and breathed a sigh of relief when the nurse informed them that the ambassador would live. Briefly, she wondered if she should bother the doctor about the child, then found herself wondering whether Echal was telepathic as he ordered the child to be checked over.

From a slight distance away, she studied the still unconscious ambassador, who was hooked up to a life-support unit. He almost looked as if he were simply asleep, but his pallor, accompanied by the equipment and lack of clothes on his upper body, which in turn showed dark bruising across his ribs, suggested otherwise. She inched a little closer, and closer still until she was at the edge of the bed. Yes, he certainly was hansome, she mused as she reached to wipe his hair from his face. He was restrained, which was probably for his own protection. She knew that some patients woke wildly, thereby only injuring themselves and presumed that Tedak was no different. The restraints weren't applied tightly, so she was indeed certain it was only to prevent injury.

She started as he responded to her touch, even if it was only a slight twitch of a muscle in his face. She ran her hand past his hairline again, eliciting a similar response. "Nurse," she called over to Tamir, as she ran her hand down his arm until the back of his hand. "He's responsive..."

At that moment, Tedak's eyes flew open, widening in panic. They darted from left to right as he struggled to sit up. "Easy ambassador," Rhiana said sternly, placing both hands flat on his chest to keep him down, thereby being mindful of the bruised areas. She saw his eyes settle on her, terror as well as question in them. "You're in sickbay, you took a fall down the stairs after you became unwell. You're safe now, you were saved."

The youthful aide looked towards the nurse for assistance, as she kept her hands in contact with his skin. "I'm Rhiana Mhiessan," she introduced herself, "I'm a diplomatic aide, though I've yet to find out to whom I'm assigned. I haven't been an aide for very long, so I'm hoping to be assigned to someone I could learn from."

In the mean time, Kassandra had finished her sweet treats and wiggled in Kreiala's arms, wanting to be set down on her feet. "Down," she demanded firmly, then went on to demand to know where her parents were.

Tedak took it all in, his mind racing. He remembered feeling sick, throwing up and certainly remembered the fall down the stairs after he'd called for the doctor. What he couldn't figure out was what exactly had made him sick. Who had taken him to sickbay? How sick was he, that he was on life support? He could feel the pressure of the oxygen mask around his nose and mouth, and desperately wanted the claustrophobic item gone, but he couldn't get his arm up to remove it. Why was he bound to the bed?

His breathing rate increased, laced with the occasional gasp as his lungs and ribs were tender. His hand tightened around the girl's, making her gasp in turn. Then his eyes found the girl. Who was she? Kreiala hadn't struck him as a mother, being so distant and cold, yet here she was clearly caring for a child. What was going on? "Govan..." he managed to whisper, hoping he was heard around the respirator. "Govan...what..." More was impossible as he was gasping for breath.