Mission 97.0424:yhfi'iunnh: Transportation Trouble

[Deleted]

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Three Weeks after the events of the previous mission
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Taev walked among the decks of the S’Harien at a leisurely pace, looking over nearly every inch the ship left exposed to sight. He monitored the crew, who all were attending to their duties as they all typically did. Very few questioned Taev’s newfound command, however acting in might be. Only three weeks ago, when the S’Harien had returned from the failed mission of locating the Koimae, did Taev receive this unusual elevation. Commander Echal, along with his trusted executive Dor’vel, had still not regained consciousness. Instead of taking the time find a suitable replacement, or perhaps because the empire deemed the S’Harien a disposable vessel, Taev had been named Echal’s successor, though only on a temporary basis. Hmph….whatever that means…. Taev glared at several of the crew who were hard at work repairing damage received from a war game put on by one of the senior Commander’s of the Romulan fleet. The S’Harien had been “selected” as one of the contenders in the seemingly unmatched duel. They were easily outgunned by a factor of three, however, to everyone’s surprise, including Taev’s, the S’Harien was successful in defeating the opposing vessel. Taev remembered hearing something about the Commander getting stripped of all rank and position and committing suicide. Perhaps the latter thought was only wishful thinking on his part, but Taev sensed that something profound was going to happen soon. There was good that came from the mock battle. Tedak had been knocked unconscious and was in a coma. Taev smirked at the thought of it.

The bridge of the S’Harien was a mess. Taev glanced around at broken consoles, smoking panels, and a myriad of crewmen still cleaning it up. Surely the battle hadn’t procured this much damage. It only set them back further than Taev cared to be. They were on schedule to patrol the neutral zone for any incursions made by the United Federation of Planets. Starfleet always had a knack for being where they were not supposed to be, seemingly popping up every time the Empire turned the corner. If there was a cataclysmic supernova, the Federation was most likely the cause. Walking down to the center of the bridge, Taev glanced at the head consoles, seeing both of them empty. “Apparently these work?” he expectantly asked the nearest crewman.

The other Romulan timidly responded. “Yes sir. They have been completely repaired.

Taev raised an eyebrow. “Then explain to me why there is no one sitting at the consoles.”

The other Romulan cowered in fear and he scurried off to find someone to take the shift, immediately. Taev stared in the direction of the retreated officer, wondering what fool allowed him onboard a vessel.

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One week later
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After being assigned to neutral zone patrol, the S’Harien had only just reached the first checkpoint, having spent time at Outpost Twenty-Four and repairing the damage previously received. So far, as usual, there was no Federation presence in any of the planets near the edge of the neutral zone and nor did Taev expect there to be. Taev simply shook his head and ordered the S’Harien on. The center chair was starting to grow on him, having somewhat feared the significance that hung around the chair like a rank odor. It felt almost comfortable now. He had not yet been deposed from his throne, so he felt fairly secure in his new position.

Taev leaned toward the right side arm of the chair, his legs crossed. “Do we have anything on the scanners? Anything at all?” he asked sarcastically.

“Not a thing sir,” came the response of the only scanner on the bridge. Taev had reassigned much of the shifts of bridge crew to assist in improving the efficiency of the ship.

(Mirok, feel free to write any of this you wish)

Taev stood up. “I’m going to do something worth my time.” He started to walk off the bridge, but just as he about walked out the door, he communications officer stopped him. “Commander, we are receiving a transmission.”

Damn… “Of course we are.” Taev slowly walked back towards the center of the bridge and sat in his chair. “Put the damn thing up.”

The screen flickered on, revealing his immediate superior. “I’d take the insubordinate look off your face, Commander. Pay attention.”

Taev raised an eyebrow, showing his obvious insulted expression, but did not respond.

The Romulan Major continued. “You are being recalled to outpost Zero-five. I’ll be brief as I have more important matters to attend to. You are joining an escort to take a diplomatic envoy to outpost fifty-two. They are meeting with a Federation group to discuss the settlement of system four-two-seven. I am sending you the particulars now. “ He paused before asking condescendingly, “I trust your vessel will make in less than a week at maximum cruise speed?”

“We will make it on time,” Taev said simply, yet sternly.

“See that you do, or that Command will be as lost to you as your family’s honor.”

To that, Taev stood up angrily and ordered the communication cut. The screen flickered again, revealing the space in front of them. “Set course for the outpost, Maximum speed.”

Taev sent the general information to the senior staff, ordering them to plan the day they would have at the outpost. He left the bridge. Angrily.

(TAG ALL, we have some time to play on the outpost. Enjoy yourselves…..or not)

[Deleted]

Mirok was exhausted. He hadn’t slept properly in…three weeks now? He had lost track. Between the war games and leaving spacedock to go on patrol as soon as the ship was capable without breaking down or exploding, proper sleep was a luxury that Mirok was almost forgetting that some people could possibly afford. No, the maintenance and repair demands were so numerous that he had precious few chances to stop and rest. And even when he did, thoughts about the next thing he needed to repair when he awoke again, and the next thing after that, would keep him awake that he gave up purposefully trying to rest. So basically, he would go working for a couple days straight until he would drag himself to his office and collapse, remaining that way for an hour or two until someone needed him jolted him awake, often with a demand of why something wasn’t working yet.

To add to it, they had a new Commander. That persistently angry, shouting Tactical Officer had, in what was surely in some minds a setup for failure, been granted Command of the S’Harien for the time being. The man’s attitude had percolated down through the ranks. Mirok’s already difficult job had been all the more challenging by frequent trips by members of his department to Sickbay after other departments had forcefully encouraged them to work faster or harder. Engineers in the Imperial Navy were tolerated for their necessity, but were hardly respected. Later Taev had reassigned other crewmembers of the S’Harien to Engineering to provide additional aid in repairs, and while this had somewhat alleviated the previous problem, it hardly did anything for Engineering’s productivity. The effect of the reduced absence of the engineers had largely cancelled out by the incompetence of the reassigned officers to do the needed repair work, causing the engineers extra time in explaining and/or correcting the needed work.

At present, Mirok was occupied with repairing the internal communications system, attempting to figure out why it was inexplicably dropping about every fifth word when people tried to talk to one another over it at a normal pace. The problem had led to some interesting coping tactics: people talking as fast as they could to reduce the amount of their message not making it through, shouting if the desired party was somewhere in the vicinity, or just giving up on using the system altogether and actually going and finding the person they wanted to talk to. Of course, a good portion of the time the person they wanted to talk to was Mirok, to make yet another demand of why the system was working.

The task had presently forced him into working at a console, scanning systems’ analyses to attempt to track down the problem. He hated computer work and scanning code. At least with the hands-on work he felt like he was actually accomplishing something.

“Message from the Bridge, sir,” said his temporarily assigned aide, holding out a PADD.

Mirok took the PADD from the aide, a junior officer in the science department that had been reassigned to apparently help him be more organized. Mirok wasn’t sure if the young officer was relieved to not be working for that witch Kreiala or not. Plan the use of time at the outpost; that was easy enough, he’d been making sure the ship didn’t implode on the diplomat envoy. And… “Maximum cruise speed??” Mirok exclaimed aloud. “Well, I guess I’ll be over at Reactor Control, making sure Hasmek is balancing the nullifying field right so that it doesn’t reduce the gravitational strength of the Singularity and affect the output of the Reactor.”

Mirok shoved the PADD into the aide’s chest and stalked off.

[Deleted]

Sural sat quietly in his open office reading the latest research paper from the Imperial Insitute of Science and sipped on a warm cup of Jilar Juice.

Sickbay was remarkably quiet itself. In the past few weeks the crew had kept him quite busy. Recurring headaches, nightmares, sprains and burns were all treated with Surals expected level of efficiency. He was just beginning to feel that his medical team were starting to gel... well at least learning to obey his instructions. Sadly he was losing his right hand aide. Nurse Tamir who had been of great help since him coming aboard was leaving.

Dor'vel had recovered from most of his injuries but the broken leg required greater rehabilitation than he could offer himself aboad ship. Tamir had opted to travel with Dor'vel when he was transferred to the hospital at the next outpost. He would miss Tamir, she was kind and efficient but he could understand why, Dor'vel and her had become quite the item.

He looked up and out into the critical care ward. He smiled wrly. Lying in adjacent beds were Govan Echal and Tedak. The two were annoyingly loud and obnoxiuos. In his duties as Doctor he had treated these two more than any other crewman. More often than not their injuries had been the result of some fight between the two of them.
They were like chalk and cheese, diametrically opposed. Govan was a dutiful officer of the Imperium whilst Tedak seemed the most disloyal. He had standards and opinions that did not seem to sit well with the normal psyche. He was known to fratenise with the Federation and had even been married to a Vulcan.

He suspected that the Ambassadors assignment to the S'Harien was a result of his actions on Assailant where the Ambassador was reputed to have sided with the Federation more times than he represented Romulan Interests, although he knew Tedak would see closer ties with the Federation as being in their best interests.

Sural wasn't sure he cared either way. He was a doctor not a diplomat and he followed orders...usually. Since the destruction of Romulus the Romulan people did seem to be losing its way. Of course it was rebuilding. The event had occured over 5 years ago but many in the Imperial High Command felt that the Imperial State was starting to appear weak, accepting hand outs and support from other nations. Even during the Donatra/Tal Aura Civil War things hadn't felt this bad.

Putting down the Research he checked the roster and noted the arrival of some new crew due at their next stop over. He would have to think then if Govan should be kept aboard or transferred to a long term care facility. That decision he felt ought to be made by someone else, ideally the new CO - Taev.

Draining the last dregs of his drink he set his work down and proceeded to the bridge he nearly collided with Taev as the new commander stormed from the bridge.

"Ah Sir. A moment if I may. I need to discuss Comamnder Echal's care"

TAG Taev

[Deleted]

== Part 1 ==

Week 1 after memory black-out
Tedak awoke in the S'harien's infirmary, feeling groggy and weak. He didn't know how long he'd been unconscious, let alone how he sustained one of his injuries. From what he could tell, with his own limited medical knowledge, one of the injuries should've killed him and he was more than a little amazed that he had survived at all. The other was less severe but no less painful even though it had been treated.

“Marvelous,” the diplomat muttered to himself as he tried to sit up, but was roughly pushed down by one of the stronger male nurses. Seemingly, specially assigned to keep him in his place. Resigning himself to his immediate fate, he raised his hands in surrender and closed his eyes again. Perhaps in a few hours...he thought, slowly drifting back to sleep. He had, at least, been given word that Kasia was all right and in the care of Rhiana, who seemed – surprisingly – more than willing to take care of her. Tedak had noticed a change in her, which he couldn't put his finger on.

Week 2
Kasia smiled, her tiny face lighting up in joy when her father entered their quarters. “Rhiana, daddy's back!”

The young aide scurried away, trying to get out of sight before the man could see her. She was simply dressed in a long blue skirt and black shirt, both snug fitting but still comfortable and elastic enough to give with every move she made. She felt shame over what she'd done even though she didn't remember why. Something had happened that put a change in the young woman, but the gap in her memory didn't allow her to know why. She remembered trying to kill the man, remembering clearly why, as well.

Tedak knelt down with his arms wide open, the little girl flying into them, hugging him fiercely. “I missed you daddy,” she whispered in his ear, her arms tight around his neck.

Hissing, the diplomat straightened, lifting her up in his arms even though that caused some residual pain in his side. “I missed you to angel, I missed you too. I heard you came to visit a few times.”

“You were asleep daddy, that's what the doctor said, that you were sleeping. You sleep very long daddy.”

“Daddy was very tired,” Tedak explained, before putting her down again. “Rhiana, office, now!”

The girl whimpered before hurrying away. She had known this was coming; she had just known it ever since she learned the man had survived. Oh how she prayed he would survive...

Sighing, Tedak followed her. “You have changed,” he commented as he entered, closing the door behind him. “You tried to kill me, I can't forgive that, but I won't put you through the disgrace of relieving you. You have potential if only you give it a chance.” He sighed again. “You will remain here on the S'harien, and you will study these cases, giving me a detailed essay on how you would have solved these situations. After I return we will discuss your solutions and compare them to how they actually played out. You may not look up the solutions.”

Rhiana bowed her head in relief; though she still resented the man and the power he now had over her, she was grateful for the second chance. “Yes sir,” she whispered, “where are you going?”

“Away. I will be back in a week.”

== Part 2 to follow soon ==

[Deleted]

.:.Three Weeks Prior; Romulus.:.

Tel'Lan stood on the threshold atop a nearby building his arms were crossed, and he was dressed all in black. His eyes darted from left to right listening to the sounds from below. Behind him stood Sunar it wasn't even a matter of seeing the other Romulan, he simply heard him approach. The other operative was in charge of assignments in Tal'Shiar Tel'Lan wouldn't even turn to face him, "You have orders for me Sunar?"

Sunar looked at the back of Tel'Lan's head questioningly, "I'm not even going to guess how you do that. Yes, Tel'Lan I have your next assignment."

This time Tel'Lan turned and accepted the datapad detailing the information. He activated it;

Tel'Lan,

You are to report to the IRW S'Harien to monitor Taev Lhoell and his crew. They have had some dishonorable service as of late, we know not why. Regardless at any time you have permission to use any force that you find necessary. You're assigned the name of J'Nal Sural and the Chief Science Officer. You are to meet the ship at Outpost Zero Five where you shall board the ship under your assigned name. Upon your arrival you are to meet with Salana she will give you your orders. She will meet with you upon your arrival to your quarters. Go in peace and with honor!

Tel'Lan nodded and handed the datapad back over to Sunar. "I'm presuming that I am to embed myself and keep minimal contact with Headquarters?"

"Yes Tel'Lan. You are not to report back unless you are comprimised!"

Tel'Lan nodded before walking away he had a transport to catch...

.:.Outpost Zero Five.:.

Tel'Lan had barely arrived on board and was within the confines of his quarters when the chime came, "Come!" He said adjusting his uniform, and in came a female Romulan. "May I help you?"

"Tel'Lan?"

He looked at her, "Sulana?" After she would nod he would request her papers which was typical. When she handed them he was quick to review them. It was always proper for the exchange to go down exactly like this.

Sulana handed over the datapad that included the service record, history, and finally the orders for J'Nal Sular. "You are to be known as J'Nal Sular from now on. You will receive promotions and be like him throughout your time on board the S'Harien."

With that Tel'Lan nodded and watched her go. Now he was to be J'Nal Sular not Tel'Lan it was now his job to complete his mission as he had done so many times before. Quietly he sat down at the small desk and began to study up on the information in regards to who this J'Nal Sular was.

[Deleted]

Mirok was now getting complaints that people were growing hoarse from having to yell to each other around the ship. And there were more complaints of the departments’ decreased productivity due to the extra effort required in communicating. What puzzled him was the further decreased productivity caused by the apparent need felt to tell him all this.

He had given up staring at a computer console, trying to get him to tell him where the problems were, now realizing that the communication issues were not only limited to voice communication, but also data communication. The computer was in fact having trouble telling him where the issues lay because the malfunctions were preventing it from doing so. So he was checking parts of the system around the ship, trying to manually scan the components with a scanner to figure out what was working and what wasn’t. (This, of course, annoyed people further because they had a harder time finding him to tell him that they were getting hoarse, had decreased productivity due to extra effort in communicating, and that he was difficult to find.)

Mirok was currently near the computer core, scanning one of the primary communications processors, and temporarily installing communications taps both up and downstream from the processor to read the quality of the data stream to try to find where the weak link in the chain was.

“Of course it has to be hard to get to,” Mirok said to himself, trying to reach around the power conduit blocking his way to the communication conduit that he needed to reach in order to install the communications tap.

“Oh, enough of this nonsense,” he said, as he felt the distinct sensation of a strained muscle in his shoulder as he tried to contort his arm around the power conduit. Pulling his arm out, he went over to a nearby door, and used his access code to barge his way into the crew quarters that were on the other side of the bulkhead. “I’ll only be a minute,” he said to the apparent night shift officers he had just disturbed from their sleep.

“Just what in the name of the elements do you think you’re doing?” one of them demanded as Mirok pulled off a wall panel, which provided him with much better access to the communications conduit, but also flooded the room with light as it shown through the open panels from the corridor.

“My job,” Mirok said simply, as he installed the tap. “If you’re bothered, complain to our new Commander. I’m sure he loves whiners.”

Mirok then closed the panel and left.

[Deleted]

After speaking with Taev Sural began to make his way back to Sickbay passing a number of unfamiliar faces part of the new intake of crew. One or two were Reman, there was even an Elohsian and a Kevratan. Sural made a mental note to check on his understanding of Bloodfire plague in case the Kevratan carried it.

It was interesting that Central Command had assigned these client races to the S'Harien, perhaps they really did see it as a new way for the Romulan Military to act. Through co-operation strength? Sural wasn't sure. It worked in the Federation because all the worlds were equal but in Romulan space the Eloh and the Kevratas were conquered people, how loyal could they be. The Remans formerly crack commando troops had proved a level of independance in their alliance with the Klingons. How far could those that remained in the Star Empire be trusted?

It mattered little to Sural really, he was a doctor now a politician and as long as there were sick people to heal then he had a job to do.

He paused inside sickbay and tapped a communicator.
"This is Sural to Engineering. The Bio-Sensor Array in the main Triage center is on the fritz again. Can someone come and fix it. Properly this time. Sural out"

TAG Mirok

[Deleted]

In his troubleshooting of the communications network, Mirok had hardly been exposing every centimeter of the hardware involved. Instead, he had been attaching taps to the communications line on either end of various components such as relays and checking quality of signals before and after them. This had the additional benefit that he could also check the quality of lines in between components. After having attached what felt like dozens of taps to various places along the network without seeing any difference in quality that would indicate a faulty component, he finally found a section of conduit showing a difference between one end of the segment and another.

Finally a clue; it seemed the source of his – and everyone else’s – headache with the communications system was somewhere along a five-meter segment of conduit running along a corridor. Rather than minimizing disruption with a step-by-step process of removing a panel, checking that section of conduit, replacing it and moving onto the next one, Mirok decided to just pull off all the panels at once and get on with it. He would likely find the problem faster that way anyway, and it would be more efficient that switching between the different parts of the task. If the additional disruption bothered anyone…well then they could go jump out an airlock.

After the middle panel of the five-meter length, he found what he was probably looking for: a small device attached to the communications conduit that wasn’t supposed to be there. Pulling out a scanner, it quickly became evident what it was – a listening device. Based on the design, it looked like it had been placed there by Intelligence. It made sense; if he’d wanted to eavesdrop on the communications network, that’s how he would have done it. Eavesdropping subroutines were too easily found. Attached listening devices had to physically scanned for with internal sensors. Usually a much more inconspicuous method, this particular listening device was defeating that by apparently malfunctioning and causing interference in the conduit it was supposed to be monitoring. Scanning it, he found that a fault in the power supply, producing the interference through a periodic power surge. That certainly explained why the interference had such a regular pattern to it.

“This is Sural to Engineering. The Bio-Sensor Array in the main Triage center is on the fritz again. Can someone come and fix it. Properly this time. Sural out"

“Fine, don’t let me respond,” Mirok said aloud to the air. The interference had dropped a few words, but he had gotten the gist of it of the message.

Returning his attention to the listening device, he had a challenge in front of him. The easiest way to remove the interference would have been to simply remove the device. But that was far too risky; they had been warned against disrupting Intelligence operations in the Academy. Keep the ship running despite them, but don’t get in the way – that’s what they’d been taught.

Fairly confident that the device had not been deliberating set to cause the interference, he carefully adjusted the power supply, taking caution not to disrupt the listening device’s function. Double checking, he found the communications network was indeed no longer being disrupted.

Satisfied, he headed to Sickbay.

[Deleted]

Nearing the final leg of the journey to outpost Zero-Five, Taev sat in his office. The reports on the S’Harien’s current status had turned to be quite promising, mostly due to the excellent expertise of the ship’s current Chief Engine Room Manager. The Romulan had proved to be quite capable in his short time aboard the S’Harien. Taev looked rather pleased at the new turn around. Main systems were functioning at near peak efficiency and the crew had begun to gain a slight boost in morale. Taev remembered that fear used to be the driving force of this ship. It would be a good tradition to partially follow, though he hoped that more than fear would allow the crew to work better together, perhaps even bond to a cohesive unit. At this point, this was all wishful thinking, more important matters needed tending.

Not long ago, the Chief Medical Officer had approached Taev with the intent of discussing his predecessor’s condition. Taev had blown him off, albeit politely, but now the time came to actually address the problem. Having summoned the Doctor in, Taev said, “What is the Commander’s current condition?”

(Sural)

His response was less than pleasing, but unfortunately a decision had to be made. “What are your recommendations?”

(Sural, I’d vote for pick one and go with it)

Taev nodded. “See to it when we return to Zero-Five.” He dismissed the doctor. Watching the much older Romulan leave, Taev’s mood was bittersweet. Whatever would happen now, would happen.

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The S’Harien was now docked with the outpost and new crew was taken aboard as well as many crew left. There were few promotions to give out, mostly due to orders from superiors, but two members stood out from the pack. With his promotion, he was also required to select his replacement in his own security department. He knew only a few on a personal level, so he took to personnel records, many having been written by himself. One stood out, and he had ordered a meeting for her to be promoted to her position. Also in that meeting would appear his knew Science officer.

As if on cue, both appeared at the designated time. ~Wow….this is actually nice…~ The two entered and stood before him.

(Tag Sular and Kellar. I am taking a bit of liberty for continuity’s sake with the previous line. Not meant to be offensive….too much)

“Congratulations, you’ve both been selected to serve on the S’Harien, one in a different position than before. I expect you to do your jobs with accuracy and efficiency. Mistakes are not an option. Is that clear?”

(Sular, Kellar)

He dismissed them.

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After only a few short hours at dock, Taev had finally gotten the call he was expecting. “Major, I thought you had forgotten about the S’Harien.”

The Major was in a much darker mood. “Save the jokes Commander. You’ll want them to settle your little mind when you find out what I have to say.” Taev raised an eyebrow, but remained silent. “We’ve elected to use the main ship as a decoy. “

Taev chuckled. “A decoy? Surely the Empire doesn’t need to employ such elementary methods?”

“You are just full of jokes tonight, aren’t you?” The annoyed look on the Major’s face soured even more, to Taev’s obvious contentment. “You are going into a very hostile system. The Empire has not discounted diplomacy with the recent events of the past few years, but in this case, its more of a suicide mission.”

“I’m glad you feel you can be honest with me, Major. Really, I do. What’s so hostile about this race that you are bothering with diplomacy instead of wiping them off the star charts?”

After a long and hesitant pause, the Major replied, “And there in lies your special mission. Not only do they have the ability to detect us through our cloaks, they have a weapons technology that is far more devastating than our own disruptors. Most of our ships can out-manuever them, but should they get a shot off, our shields will be relatively useless.” He paused again. “As I said, I’m giving you a shot to prove your own worth and the worth of your ship. You are taking on one of the Ambassadors. She dies, you all die with her. And dare I suggest that you do a little recon and find out what these people have to…”offer” us.” The channel cut.

“Interesting. Very interesting.”

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

Taev sat in the ward room, waiting for the entirety of his senior staff to join him, including Ambassador Tedak at Taev’s request. Taev was employing a new strategy. In front of each chair lay a padd containing the necessary information, including the identities of the three Ambassadors, the details of the mission, and the expected outcome. Patiently, he waited for them all to take a seat and go over the information.

(Tag for all)

Turning to look at Tedak, he said, “What can you tell us of these Ambassadors? Anything that would help us in any way?” He spoke in a dry and slightly condescending tone.

(Tedak, your call on how much or little you want to include on these three)

(Tag for any comments)

“As you are now aware, our cloaks are useless and our shields are not much more helpful. Uhlan, make certain we are more agile than anything they can throw at us. Don’t bother with the cloak.”

(Mirok)

Taev then turned to the Science, Intelligence, and Security Officers. “You three are going to be the primary source of our intelligence on the enemy. I want you all to develop several methods of infiltration and reconnaissance. Plan for anything.”

(Isha, J’Nal, Tevio)

Finally turning to Sural, he said, “I take it you don’t need me to tell you to sit tight?”

(Sural)

“Any questions?”

(Tag for All)

[Deleted]

Mirok had been neither the first nor the last to arrive in the Ward Room. Taking an empty seat, he found a PADD sitting there waiting for him, with everyone but the Commander giving similar ones varying levels of attention. Curious, he picked up the PADD and found complete details of the nature of the mission. He skipped over the section about the Ambassadors they’d be transported. While intelligence-gathering from available sources had once been a practiced skill thanks to his family, forced to serve as an Engineer he cared little about the information provided.

Some of the other information certainly caught more attention: cloaks being useless against their foe, and shields as well if they scored a hit. Lovely…that meant yet more damage and more people yelling for him and at him. But there was the potential to outmaneuver them. He would have to find some way to augment that advantage.

After the Commander began speaking, eventually the attention went to Mirok…. “As you are now aware, our cloaks are useless and our shields are not much more helpful. Uhlan, make certain we are more agile than anything they can throw at us. Don’t bother with the cloak.”

Mirok had been making notes for plans to minimize damage. If only I could make the ship lighter…that would help maneuverability. Wait…perhaps I can…

“Yes Commander,” Mirok said without looking up. “I think I may be able to redirect the cloak’s power energy requirements into increasing our maneuverability.”

“By putting it into the maneuvering thrusters?” someone asked, though Mirok was too absorbed in his train of thought to pay attention to who.

“By lightening the ship,” Mirok replied, and finally looked up from his PADD and at Taev. “I think I might be able to retask some of the nullifying emitters in the warp reactor, and use them to negate the effect of some of the mass of the ship, like they do with the Singularity, thereby making us more agile. It wouldn’t be an issue for emitters, since the rest of the ship is a tiny fraction of the mass of the Singularity. Of course, I have no idea whether it can be done practically or safely. In case it doesn’t work, or even in addition to it, I’ll boost the structural integrity field, to help hold us together better in case we do get hit.”

[Deleted]

Word of the arrival of the S'Harien came swiftly to T'Lan's ears, but he wasn't T'Lan any longer instead he was J'Nal Sular a science officer recently assigned to a starship. Of course his mission was to be of the atmost secrecy. He would do his job well, he always did. J'Nal walked through the airlock and looked at the security officer standing watch. "J'Nal Sular Chief Science Officer on board the IRW S'Harien!" He presented the datapad containing his orders. And, firmly but stiffly walked away.

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

The S’Harien was now docked with the outpost and new crew was taken aboard as well as many crew left. There were few promotions to give out, mostly due to orders from superiors, but two members stood out from the pack. With his promotion, he was also required to select his replacement in his own security department. He knew only a few on a personal level, so he took to personnel records, many having been written by himself. One stood out, and he had ordered a meeting for her to be promoted to her position. Also in that meeting would appear his new Science officer.

As if on cue, both appeared at the designated time. ~Wow….this is actually nice…~ The two entered and stood before him.
Sular ignored the security officer standing next to him for the time being. He would possibly need some sort of ally on board, but his assessment so far was that these two did not deserve such a quality position on board. The Commander knew little as he stood there lack of deception written on his facial structure.

“Congratulations, you’ve both been selected to serve on the S’Harien, one in a different position than before. I expect you to do your jobs with accuracy and efficiency. Mistakes are not an option. Is that clear?”

"Oh do not worry Commander you shall get nothing less from me on my honor!"

He dismissed them.

Following the dismissal he returned to his quarters to quickly change, then he moved to his science lab where he looked around deciding it best to get to know his people...

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

Without question J'Nal continued to remain vigilant, and yet disiplined his keen eyes keeping watch over those around him. Trust was not taught to Tal'Shiar operatives that were dispatched undercover. Of course everybody save him had no knowledge of that information. His eye was esspecially watchful of Commander Lhoell. Someone of his caliber promoted and given command was not necessarily to be looked down upon. However, at the same time he had been sent to keep a watchfull eye on them all.

He was a spy, but he was more then that he was a trained assassin when necessary. He read through the mission briefing quickly, and quietly offering no insight on opinion. It was obvious that even Command had little tolerance in Commander Taev Lhoell, and of course he would have dwelve deeper into this man's past to determine exact causes.

“You three are going to be the primary source of our intelligence on the enemy. I want you all to develop several methods of infiltration and reconnaissance. Plan for anything.”

J'Nal nodded, not quite certain what good a science officer would do infiltrating granted he was a master at this. But, he could not allow that to be known so much for sitting quietly and observing instead he would be hidden in the thick of it. He turned to the two officers who were also coined for this tasking. Lieutenant Tevio Ch'varak was the senior officer in this case it was up to him to decide the best course of action. "Lieutenant I won't be needing any of my science equipment right?" He said with a slight smirk.

(Tevio)

[Deleted]

Week 3-4
The tiny white vessel, belonging to Ambassador Tedak sped away from the S'harien, leaving the Valdore class vessel behind within minutes. On board were the diplomat and his illegimate daughter Kassandra. Though he had acknowledged the little girl, and had extended his family name to her, she would probably never have any legal rights since he had never married her mother. Tedak, however could care less. He loved the little girl and was pleased that she was warming up to him on so short a notice.

Rhiana, he had left behind on the S'harien, trusting her to take care of his office in his absence. It would give her some time to redeem herself in his eyes, and prove her worth. She had tried to kill him, he remembered that much, even if there was a big gap in his memory.

Right now, he was going to enjoy his vacation and what had him happiest, was that he was going to meet with Kerry-Anne. He would never admit it to anyone on the S'harien, not even those he might consider a friend, but he missed her terribly. And now, they were going to meet up on a distant moon, just inside Federation territory. A smile appeared on his face when, after a three day journey, he finally touched down on the moon's surface.

Waiting at the shuttle docking bay Kerry-Anne waited as patiently as she could manage. It had taken a few favours called in for her to make it here, Given her resignation from starfleet she no longer had acess to shuttles. And her new job it would have taken a million forms in triplicate just to step foot in one.

Stepping closer to the shuttle she smiled as she waited to catch a first glimpse at Tedak.

Eerily slow, the hatch to the white Imperial vessel opened to reveal the diplomat who was holding a little girl by the hand. There was no denying her lineage, she looked very much like her father including what could pass as a dignified bearing. For a two year old anyway. A smile spread across Tedak's face as he spotted her, but he refrained from running.

It didn't take long to reach her as he picked up the girl and increased the space between his steps. Putting his daughter down, he reached out and drew the woman in his arms. "I have missed you," he whispered, holding her tight to his chest.

She hugged him tightly as she replied. "And I you." After a few blissful moments she pulled back and gave a big smile. "I trust your trip was comfortable." then looking down she smiled. "It Is a pleasure to finally meet you."

"It was a very long journey but worth the time," the Romulan replied, watching as Kassandra shied away and hid behind him. "Don't be shy Kasia, this is Doctor Kennedy, I've told you about her." He nudged the girl forward. "Say hello."

The girl hid her face against his legs, but she murmured a hello anyway. Tedak knelt beside her and turned her around. "Kerry-Anne, this is my daughter Kasia. I'm glad I can finally introduce her to you, I just regret the means with which I discovered her existance. I wish I had known about her sooner." Yet the joy of having a child was very much visible on his face, laced with the grief of losing a child as well. He never spoke about D'beren unless asked, but with Kasia it was different. "Come, we should go for a walk and explore this little moon. We only have so much time together."

She winced slightly and gently placed her hand on his arm. "Unfortunately we don't even have that, I am actually here on business." She took a deep breath, "I booked you and Kasia a room..and we have a dinner reservation in two hours.. I'll meet you there."

"Business?" The Romulan turned, casting her a quizzical stare. "I don't understand."

She sighed, "Well, I couldn't take any time off.. so I had to find a reason to come here.. I'm here to negotiate a minor medical trade deal on behalf of the Bajoran government... I work for them now and taking time off isn't as simple as in starfleet."

"Ah. Do you need assistance with that?" He smiled. "I do know a minorly successful negotiator."

She took a deep breath before replying. "No thank you dear, my government wouldn't be happy a Romulan Ambassador spoke on their behalf... My government still considers your government persona non Grata.. and despite the minute importance of these negotiations they still are official talks."

Tedak was about to retort to that when she continued speaking.

"I don't need to tell you of all people how uptight politicians get and how your political opponents like to scrutinize your every move."

"No, you don't and you're right. We'll just have to make do with the time we have.

<hr>

Three days later, Tedak received word that he had to return to the S'harien. Sighing he glanced over at the woman he loved. "I'm recalled," he muttered, showing her the message. "Apparently they scrutinize me so much I'm not even allowed to go about my own business and enjoy a little vacation. And I need the rest too." He sighed again, almost spilling the fact that his own aide tried to kill him.

She took a deep a breath as she looked over the green PADD, "Well, considering how much your bosses dislike you we were lucky to have the three days." She shrugged her shoulders. "I need to get back to Bajor soon myself.. I need to actually turn in some work before the Ministers feel comfortable appointing me anything."

"I guess I am," the diplomat agreed as they walked back to his shuttle. The white hull gleamed in the sunlight, the hatch already down to receive him. "I'm more than grateful for the time given as I got to spend it with you." Tedak lifted her face up to him and kissed her, while at the same time with his free hand keeping his daughter to him. "And now I have to return to the snake's nest and survive until we can meet again."

"See to it that you do, Mister Ambassador." Kennedy replied with her eyebrows raised. "Death shall be no refuge for you from me should you fail in your attempts to.. 'Survive." She leaned in and gave him another kiss before adding. "I love you."

"I shudder at the very thought," Tedak laughed, though unconsciously his hand went to his right side, as he gave in to the kiss. "I love you too. And I'll be utterly miserable to be away from you." He looked down when there was a tug at the hem of his tunic.

"I want to say goodbye too," the little girl demanded, upon which she was immediately picked up. She held her small arms out to Kerry-Anne. "Kiss?" she asked with a giggle.

Kerry-Anne smiled before obliging the girls request with a short kiss on the cheek and saying. "You be good for daddy okay?.. an make sure he is a good boy too yeah?"

The little girl giggled again. "He isn't," she confided to her father's girlfriend.

Tedak merely shook his head. "Keep in touch?" he requested, "I want to hear all about what you're doing and when you're doing it. Gives me something to look forward to. The crew still don't trust me, nor like me, even with Govan gone."

Kerry-Anne sighed sadly. "It may just take time, your Federation sympathies are well known I'm sure that doesn't help with the more radically isolationist leaning members of your crew." She shrugged her shoulders. "Sometimes having few friends is preferable to having morally questionable ones."

"But having no friends is somewhat lonely," Tedak confessed, "though I seem to get along somewhat with the chief engineer." He kissed her again. "We should go my love, I will let you know when I have arrived back at the S'harien."

Kerry-Anne motioned to Kasia and said. "Your never alone.' She smiled as she patted her chest where her heart was and gave a nod before she turned and walked away.

Tedak gazed after her for a moment, suddenly finding himself with a very perculiar feeling deep down in his stomach, and a faint pain right where his heart was situated. He picked his daughter up, entered his shuttle and initiated his flight sequence.

---

Tedak had been aboard barely a few hours before the briefing was called, however since it was seemingly a senior staff meeting, he didn't think he was invited, thus returned to his own office and started to read up on what he might've missed while he was enjoying his little vacation.

[Deleted]

She had lost track of how many night watch rotations she had endured since first coming aboard the S’Harien. She had been aboard for almost 10 months, but barely anyone knew her name. It’s easy to become faceless and nameless when delegated to the dark hours of a ship’s routine.

Isha Qellar was an insignificant tactical officer of the lowest rank and, as such, was someone no one cared to know. Her pallor and stature gave no indication that strength brewed within her. She was seemingly frail of body and meek in deportment. But, shortly after coming aboard and blending into the ship’s interior, she began plotting her advancement.

It all happened quite easily. When you’re left to your own thoughts for long periods of time and you happen to know something about cracking encryption codes, then the obvious outcome is going to be bad news for someone. The ‘someone’ in Isha’s case was her direct superior, S’ruran. He was ranked only slightly above her, yet he took great pleasure in flaunting his superiority. It was with great satisfaction and enjoyment that Isha worked to secretly undermine him.

As the tedious hours accumulated, so did Isha’s knowledge of how to get in and out of the ship’s data entry records. Log entries for duty shifts were designated low priority and given little protection from tampering. It was actually quite easy to alter S’ruran’s shift login times and make him appear habitually late.

Qellar’s confidence grew as her tinkering went unnoticed. For months she surreptitiously adjusted her colleagues records making all of them look sloppy, inflexible and, on occasion, even insubordinate yet was careful not to overdo it. In retrospect, ten months had been exactly enough time.

The sudden promotion of Taev was an unexpected boon. She was surprised by her good fortune and awed by how the pieces fell in to place far sooner than she had dared hoped.

Now standing in front of Commander Lhoell, a thin smile played at the corners of her lips.

“Congratulations, you’ve both been selected to serve on the S’Harien, one in a different position than before. I expect you to do your jobs with accuracy and efficiency. Mistakes are not an option. Is that clear?”

“Yes, Commander,” Isha quickly and confidently returned. She found this game exhilarating. She, who was dismissed as an insignificant nobody without a family honor, had risen overnight to a position of authority all because of her shrewdness.

[Deleted]

< Meanwhile: Engine Room >

Hasmek quickly adjusted the controls, feeling a small tug on his body in the direction of the Reactor after he had zoned out during the monotonous shift in the near empty Engine Room. “Think you’re going to suck me in, are you?” he said to the Singularity under his breath as he increased the output of the nullifying emitters to bring the field back into equilibrium with the pull of the Singularity. It didn’t take much of a decrease in the field strength for something the mass of a gas giant to reassert its gravitational pull on the ship.

“Hasmek, what are you still doing in here?” asked a passing colleague. “You should be enjoying yourself on the Outpost, not standing here babysitting the Reactor. We are in Extended Support mode, you know.” He smirked. “Who are you trying to impress.”

Hasmek shook his head. “What, were you asleep during half our Academy training? Oh wait, you were,” he said, and sneered. “Extended Support may take care of most ship’s functions like life support, waste extraction, power…but someone still needs to make sure the Singularity doesn’t suck the any of the ship into it. And after we encountered that anomaly last mission…the emitters just don’t seem to want to behave themselves properly…I don’t know why.”

“Well here’s something else for you to worry about…” he looked around make sure no one else was listening before continuing. “Word around the ship is that the Commander is at least satisfied with i-Dartha’s performance, perhaps even impressed. Rumor is…he might even be promoted in rank…”

Hasmek shook his head. “That’s just wonderful. That barely-interested jerk sails through the Academy, gets assigned as a Chief Engineer upon graduation, and now he’s already being promoted?! Meanwhile, we’re stuck at the bottom of the ladder, likely to stay there, because our careers are in his hands, and you know what he thought of us in the Academy…”

“Then perhaps we should make it not quite so easy for him.”

Hasmek let out a mischievous smile. “What do you have in mind?”

[Deleted]

.:.Following Staff Briefing.:.

J'Nal sat inside the office designated for the chief science officer in silence trying to determine exactly what it was that this commander was asking of him. Granted he had abilities that by far surpassed those officers and enlisted around him. Then something interesting caught his eye, he opened the piece of mail designated for him.

Uhlan,

Thought you would like some assistance I passed it through command to get it approved, but please begin wearing the rank of Sub-Lieutenant. Hope this helps in your mission. Also please destroy this message as soon as it it received.

Tal'Lan shook his head, whoever had submitted this information to him did not bother to sign their name to the bottom of the message. However, he did as requested replicating the rank insignia that was now his to wear. He then destroyed any evidence of the message that had been submitted to him. He walked back over to the desk looking at the latest research projects, there were few. Though something did catch his eye.

It was in regards to cloaking technology. A personal cloaking device that could be utilized by personnel, however he was sure it had it's side effects. But, without risk his job wouldn't even be necessary the radiation was probably intense. But, he wouldn't risk his life testing such a device that was something for junior personnel. He located a young Uhlan standing outside his office inside the main science lab. J'Nal poked his head out the door, "Come here!" He demanded.

"Sir?"

J'Nal looked at the Uhlan hesitately could he be trusted? Such questions were not relevant at this time. "I need you to test a device that was in the process of being created it will render you invisible. But, I am unaware of the side effects."

"So it could kill me?"

J'Nal looked darkly at the Romulan for a moment knowing full well that it was possible, but in the name of science he was willing to try anything. "Yes, it could but that is the risk I am willing to take." He pulled out the box and handed it to him, "The first phase you will wander the ship with this activated. We will go from there." He handed it to the man and watched as he vanished. "Now get out." He watched the door open and close...

[Deleted]

“What can you tell us of these Ambassadors? Anything that would help us in any way?”

Tedak smiled, though it was one of his more secretive smiles. "It is not so much a matter of what I can tell commander," he answered slowly, "it is, however, of what I am currently willing to tell you." He activated the PADD he had before him and scrolled through the information. "These are the names of the ambassadors we are to take on board," he continued, "Horuc of house Chelak and Restia of house I'Lainu."

He paused a second time, letting the names sink in for a moment. "Horuc is an aristocrat and a military man. You have to be very careful when dealing with him because he'll not hesitate to stab you in the back. He is a skilled assassin, thus security must be on his guard." He glanced briefly at Sural. "Medical do well to prepare for injured, for if Horuc feels he's insulted even in the slightest mannter, he'll resort to violence. His father is a fairly unknown yet rich and powerful senator."

The diplomat's smile widened slightly. "THe second you will find interesting. Restia is a woman close to my age without military prowess. Her expeditions have proven of little value as she puts little value to them. She is a widow who is out for revenge, though she is much milder in manners than Horuc. She has a daughter and a son in the military, and she'll do all she can to keep them alive. She doesn't get her own hands dirty, if anything needs doing, she'll have it done for her. She is an attractive woman who has seduced many a man into doing what she wants, and she'll have power over them later, to keep them in her service for as long as she needs."

He glanced around the table again, pausing on both male and female officers present. "Neither will have qualms to kill to get what they want, tread carefully." He deactivated his PADD and leaned back, waiting for the questions to come. Or the insults, whatever one fancied towards him these days. On his shoulder, Nut gave a disinterested yawn before curling up again. Tedak smiled, gently and affectionately rubbing the firelizard's rubbery skin.

[Deleted]

Mirok didn't recall seeing the flying lizard creature before that was currently resting on Tedak's shoulder. However, there was a distinct familiarity to it, coupled with an emotional response. It wasn't surprise, revulsion or irritation, as one would expect from initially meeting such a creature. Rather, it elicited a sense of alarm or urgency, reasons for which he couldn't identify.

He made a note to advise his staff to be careful around Horuc. Knowing they were normally unappreciated, engineers usually didn't bother with trying to be polite when something needed to be done. He already had enough personnel being sent to the Infirmary from intimidations to work faster. He didn't needed the Ambassador attacking them from being rude while doing their jobs.

"Ambassador, can you give us some idea of this woman's typical targets?" Mirok asked. "Does she any particular kind of person she tends to go after, or a typical aim for what she has her target do for her?"

[Deleted]

Tevio's memory seemed to break down when he attempted to remember that time, many years ago now, when on the penultimate intelligence operation of his previous commission. Only fleeting images could be recalled; what concrete memories having remained were subject to a blurring greyness, a heavy fog that rested on his memory, an immovable weight.

It was so long ago now it was barely worth recalling. It'd gone horribly wrong, he knew that much. They'd come for him in the very next mission - his last; had put him in bonds and sent him to exile in disgrace.

The S'Harien had been his saviour, albeit a sourly received one. Under a former Tal Shiar commander whom had also returned from ignominy, he'd been given a new commission and a new lease of life in the Romulan military affairs that'd become his life. He'd felt the parallel between himself and Govan Echal - both of them were trying to forge new careers, break new ground and win back deserved respect. Where Echal, in the time before his recent accident, had perhaps succeeded, Tevio knew not what ground he had gained or lost.

Now, again with a new commander, the Legate could only forge on once more, and search for new meaning amongst the weighty reminders of past failure that littered the malevolent corners of his mind.

The commander's ready room beckoned before him. Tevio was to report in from his 'leave' on the system's outpost. He thought it best to lay out his thoughts to their new leader, something that, if he was honest, he had never truly done under the command of Govan Echal.

"If I may speak candidly, Commander, with regard to our previous leader." Taev sat impassively behind the CO's desk as Ch'varak spoke. "It's no secret that I disagreed with Commander Echal over many matters. I thought it pertinent to say that I am fully at your disposal and will not question your orders, or show discontent as I did with Echal."

<Taev>

It made sense, of course. Echal was Tal Shiar, while Taev Lhoell was - from Tevio's point of view - true Navy. The Legate supposed it was natural that he'd hold a great deal more respect for the former tactical officer.

He considered this as he watched their new commander, a day later, during the mission briefing. Reflective, he switched his attention to the pad before him, and sensed Taev turn his way.

“You three are going to be the primary source of our intelligence on the enemy. I want you all to develop several methods of infiltration and reconnaissance. Plan for anything.”

"Lieutenant I won't be needing any of my science equipment right?" the new science officer spoke to Tevio.

Tevio said nothing, realising the officer's disrespect, and looked back to the commander. He waited until the briefing ended, and then followed J'Nal out as all the staff departed the ward room.

"You may think me harsh, Sub-Lieutenant," he shoulder-barged Sular slightly, "But displaying that tone with a superior officer in front of the staff officers can have serious consequences. You do know," he said, "That I'm the officer responsible for disciplining crewmembers who break with military etiquette and protocol...?"

<J'Nal Sular>

"Anyway, as pertaining to your question, I'm sure we'll need your science equipment at some juncture. I'll start laying plans for infiltration along the ordinary routes in coordination with the security chief. I will call on you when I have need of any of your devices as pertaining to infiltration and recon. In the mean time I'd advise you working on those. I don't want to be left at a loose end."

Tevio left J'Nal, heading off the bridge and taking the turbolift down to his office. Perhaps this Isha Qellar female would be ready to start their working collaboration.

[Deleted]

Sural sat as usual in quiet contemplation during the briefing. He sometimes wondered why he was required here. Romulan vessels were so tactically orientated that the word of a mere doctor carried little weight and that was if he actually had anything to say.

He listened to Tedaks descriptions of the Ambassadors and gave himself a wry smile, since coming aboard their resident Ambassador - Tedak had injured the commanding officer numerous times and been injured himself just as many. Sickbay would be ready - it was always ready.

He could sense that his role in this mission would be minimal with the prime focus for him being that of a polite extra at any number of boring Ambassadorial Functions where he would be required to smile sychophantically and say all the right things.

He could hardly wait...

[Deleted]

Taev nodded after listening to his staff for a few moments. “You all have your orders. The Legate, Qellar and Sular will be working on surveillance and infiltration methods against this enemy we’re up against. Engineering will be doing only the Elements know what to the Engines to help keep us alive. The Ambassador will be entertaining our guests. And I advise everyone to be cautious around the visiting Ambassadors.”

“That is all,” Taev said in conclusion. “Dismissed.”

---

Leaving the Ward Room, Mirok contacted the Cloaking chief. “i-Dartha to R’Mor. Meet me in the Engine Room, if you would. I have something we need to discuss.”

Karok didn’t bother to respond to the communique, but he was nonetheless waiting in the Engine Room when Mirok arrived. “What is it, Uhlan? You know I’m on duty at Cloaking Control.”

“I was aware of that, Centurion. However you won’t be needed there for the time being,” Mirok said, then related the information about their opponent for the briefing.

“In that case, I’m needed there all the more,” Karok said, turning to leave. “I’ll be in Cloaking Control working on ways to modify the Cloak to make it viable again.”

“The Commander wants us to pursue another approach,” Mirok said, moving to stop him. “He wants me improve our maneuverability to better avoid their weapons fire. I have an idea, but as much as I’d rather not have to admit this…I need your help.”

Karok’s face turned from impatience to the typical condescending smirk he had when talking to Mirok. “Of course you do.” He tilted his head to the side. “What did you have in mind?”

“We both know that only five of the eight nullifying emitters are required to maintain field around the Singularity. I was thinking that if we could somehow redirect the effect of the emitters, we could effectively lighten the ship. Less mass would translate to more maneuverability. And since the mass of the ship is infinitesimally small to that of the Singularity, it shouldn’t be difficult for the emitters to handle.”

Karok crossed his arms in contemplation. “You realize that something like that’s never been done before. I’m not sure if it’s even possible. The emitters weren’t designed to generate the field anywhere but inside the Singularity chamber.”

“Since when have engineers limited themselves to using something for what it was designed to do?”

Karok slowly nodded, grudgingly conceding the point. “We have much work to do.”

[Deleted]

Tevio made his way down to his office, as per the usual drill. Things had been unusual recently. He felt as if there was something missing from recent memory, happenstances having not quite added up. Something had taken place, an event or events that would explain these anomalies. But that was in the past now; there was a new assignment to conduct.

Studying the 'enemy' in these early stages, it was clear that only a very narrow band of infiltration missions were possible. Such was their technology and their seeming thoroughness in screening their ranks for possible spies - or for operatives laying groundwork for invasion.

In a way, Tevio couldn't really blame them: being so close to the Star Empire the enemy had every right to be defensive, as careful as possible to avoid being infiltrated by the Romulans - who were of course renowned for such operations.

After a quick look around the intel operations room - a small area with banks of personal stations for the staff, and adjoining Tevio's office - he headed out, making for the security chief's office. They were meant to be working together after all.

"Uhlan Qellar?" Tevio asked; he peeked his head into the office and saw the security chief working at her desk. She seemed reasonably well engrossed in whatever she was doing.

"Are you working on plans for surveillance and infiltration?" he asked neutrally, and dropped a pad on the desk. "I've been studying their security precautions. It's going to be a challenge to get any operative in there; doubly so if they can penetrate our cloaking technology."

Without waiting Tevio made to continue. It was uncommon for him to speak too much, especially when all he was doing was recounting the information he'd given her on the pad, but he found it useful to summarise considering they were on a tight schedule.

"Solely in terms of surveillance - which should prove a much easier intelligence gathering exercise - we may need the input of J'Nal Sular. If he can provide us with a workable surveillance device we might be able to deploy it in our first encounter with this species: whatever diplomatic event there is planned. That is assuming the science officer can put his insolence aside..."

<Tag Isha Qellar>

[Deleted]

J'Nal could easily have taken out Tevio, but perhaps this could prove valuable to him. At some point he would have to find someone to assist him in his operation. He needed somebody to trust, but he currently seen nobody even entering the science lab he still seen nobody.

Then there was the previous experiment that his assistant was working on who had suddenly returned as well. "Why Uhlan were there any issues with the cloaking device?"

"None sir."

"Excellent." J'Nal responded taking the device and placing it on the table, "That will be all Uhlan you are dismissed." He said calmly before turning back to the device on the table and pressing the communicator, "Lieutenant Ch'varak this is Lieutenant Sular I have a device that may aide us in the assigned mission."

(Tag Ch'varak)

And, he also knew that he could use this device to spy on the crew, and determine the finer points of his mission. The Empire did not trust Taev enough for him to have knowledge of T'Lan's presence.

[Deleted]

Uhlan Qellar found it difficult to squelch her curiosities. Her new position opened up a playground teeming with listening devices and cameras poised in covert corners. For someone like herself, who derived as much pleasure from observing as doing, it was exhilarating. The first hours in her new office were spent in a wide-eyed euphoria as she learned how limitless her monitoring authority had become.

As she stumbled across her own file, a mild sense of paranoia crept into the brain of the young officer who, without proper access codes, had easily manipulated encrypted files. Her first task was to make it impossible for anyone else to do what she had done.

The hours marched by rapidly as Isha lost track of time. She was so caught up in her work she barely noticed the entrance of Lt. Ch’varak as he peeked in his head. She quickly killed her screen before he could see it. Showing up at her door was unexpected and, taken she hadn’t begun her work on her ordered tasks, Qellar inwardly scrambled to look calm.

His nonchalance was off putting as he dropped the pad on her desk and droned on about facts everyone already knew. Isha was careful to appear she was studying him. ”Deflect his authority over you by asserting your own,” she thought. She watched him from beneath lowered lids as he slowly paced the breadth of her desk.

“We may need the input of J’Nal Sular. If he can provide us with a workable surveillance device, we might be able to deploy it in our first encounter with this species; whatever diplomatic event there is planned. That is assuming the science officer can put his insolence aside…”

She waited until his last sentence dangled, leaving him not knowing whether she was a friend to J’Nal Sular or an enemy. ”It’s too soon, Lieutenant, for me to trust you with my personal thoughts on our fellow crew.”

As Tevio looked expectantly at her, she drew a quiet breath, raised her chin and finally spoke. “Insolent or not, Sular will do as the Commander insists… as we all will do,” she chided.

Ch’varak bristled. This foundling… this waif without family and honor… was quietly reprimanding him to stay on task and leave his perceptions of Sular out of it.

Isha noted his response with satisfaction but continued cooly. “I have given quite a lot of thought about how best to gather intel,” she lied. In truth, she had only just begun contemplating it after his arrival in her office… but he wouldn’t know that. “I first want to understand how they are able to penetrate our cloaks and our shields… Being that vulnerable to attack…” Isha shook her head slightly, pushing away the thoughts of being so weak in battle. “Even though the Commander was adamant about not bothering with the cloak, I feel that if we knew how they were penetrating it, we might devise a way to stop it.”

“As for recon,” she said, thoughtfully, “we might be able to rig up a personal, multi-phase cloak… if we can get someone foolish enough to test it.”

She rose carrying Ch’varak’s pad in one hand and absent mindedly tapping it into the palm of her other hand. “The only other option I see is physically altering an infiltration team to appear as one of them.” She shook her head again, this time more emphatically. “That is my least favored option since it is the most difficult to execute. I prefer scanners to physical contact – until we know their weaknesses.” Her crewmates could question her lineage and her lack of family honor, but Isha’s blood ran pure with the innate aptitude of studying your enemy before striking.

"I am going to ask the Commander for permission to accompany the diplomatic party to the surface." Isha looked away distantly. "I have recent experience in blending into the background and should appear innocuous enough... especially if introduced, not as security, but as an aide. I can personally initiate whatever plan we decide."

Ch'varak looked her over. Yes, he could see how no one would think her a threat. In fact, he had never noticed her until her recent appointment to head of Security. She was small, thin and pale. The only vibrancy was in her eyes.

Qellar's dark orbs returned a steady gaze into the Intelligence Officer’s eyes. “Of utmost importance is to understand their weapons.” She drew her lips taut as she thought of the accolades it would bring should she be responsible for bringing the Empire such powerful weapons technology. "I want schematics. Anything short of that, is a failure."

[Deleted]

After the briefing, Tedak made a point of following Mirok, before approaching him and tapping his shoulder. "Come with me," he said simply, barring his path and indicating he should follow the diplomat to his office instead. It wasn't a request, that much was obvious from the tone in his voice, which was reserved and suspicious.

The ambassador didn't wait for Mirok to follow, instead he turned and went in the opposite direction, heading straight for the small room that he called his office. The room was only about as big as your standard bedroom and was furnished with a wooden desk which seemed to be made of hard oak. A comfortable seat was on either side of the desk and to the side sat a sofa and what could pass for a Terran coffee table. They were left-overs from his life aboard Starbase Assailant and it was obvious the diplomat valued the comforts of home in his office, so that any guest he should entertain could feel comfortable and be less inclined to be on his or her guard.

As he entered, Nut swerved from the ambassador's shoulder to his perch on one of the elaborate bookshelves. He was soon followed by his litter mate Sev, the two entertaining a quiet greeting before the latter curled up for a nap.

"Take a seat," Tedak instructed, gesturing to the one vacant seat as he took the one behind his desk. Patiently, he waited for Mirok to be seated, then picked up a PADD from his desk. "This meeting will not be recorded," he stated calmly, "your question in the briefing, it is valid however I don't wish to concern all the male population of this vessel." He paused as he regarded the chief engineer. "The Lady Restia," he continued, "she is a marvelous woman, with many accomplishments in her name. I've not had the pleasure of meeting with her before, however I must admit I am curious towards her, especially in regards to the information I have been given in regards to said accomplishments. Her targets, you asked.."

He slid a second PADD across his desk. "Any male she deems worthy of interest, and anyone she thinks who has secrets." The ambassador's eyes rested on the engineer's. "Such as you. You have no name to give yourself, yet you have the bearing of someone from the higher caste of Romulan society. You, I would suspect, would make a target of interest to her. Be on your guard."

(Mirok)

[Deleted]

As Mirok followed R’Mor across the Engine Room to plan the new use of the nullifying emitters, Mirok was startled to find Tedak suddenly in front of him.

"Come with me," he said simply, barring his path and indicating he should follow the diplomat to his office instead. It wasn't a request, that much was obvious from the tone in his voice, which was reserved and suspicious.

As Tedak turned to leave without even so much as waiting for an answer, Mirok looked at Centurion R’Mor in a mixture of surprise and annoyance. “Excuse me,” he said to R’Mor, the irritation showing in his voice.

Hastening out of the Engine Room to follow Tedak, he called ahead, “What is this about, Ambassador? I’ve work to do.”

Receiving no answer, Mirok made an attempt to probe the man’s mind. Looking at the back of his head, he focused on Tedak’s mind. Unfortunately, as with his previous attempts, he instead tapped into the man’s senses – in this case his sense of touch. Mirok could feel the looser feel of the diplomat’s robes compared to his own uniform. The feel of the man’s steps, out of sync from his own, threw Mirok off almost to the point of losing his balance. With the movement of Tedak’s body, he could feel what he thought was the Ambassador’s honor blade, bouncing back and forth against his left side…

Finally, they reached the diplomat’s smallish office and got to the point. Mirok listened to Tedak’s explanation and skimmed the additional information regarding Lady Restia.

“Secrets, you say?” Mirok replied, not about to concede Tedak’s point regarding his background. Yes, he had been disowned from the privileged station to which he was born, but he wasn’t about to admit that to the Ambassaor. “Well then it’s a wonder her Ladyship doesn’t have difficulty choosing a target. With Romulan society so full of secrets, it shouldn’t be too difficult for me to avoid her notice. Even if not, I believe I can handle myself.”

Mirok stood. “If there’s nothing else, I need to be returning to the Engine Room. The tactic I described in the briefing is no simple matter, Ambassador.”

With that, he turned and left the room.