Recouping Losses

[David Tan]

~ RECOUPING LOSSES ~


Following their convictions for charges which included smuggling and more seriously, kidnapping
Members of the group known as 'The Pirates' were each sentenced to varying terms of imprisonment

Rallos and Gr'vos, known to be the leaders of the group, also faced several counts of murder at their trials
Found guilty... Both men were to be incarcerated at the New Zealand Penal Settlement on Earth

As a show of good will, the Federation Council offered to return both men to their respective Homeworlds to serve their sentences
Offers which both Governments declined... Happy to allow Federation justice to take its course


~~~~~~~~~~


On hearing the verdicts, the former associates of Rallos, who had suffered countless millions of losses in goods, and gold-pressed platinum
Now needed an urgent means to gain access to the imprisoned Yattho Pirate
It was imperative they learn the location of the final storage facility before the Federation could
Hoping to at least recoup a fraction of the losses from their failed association

To this end, they acquired the services of a disgraced Vulcan named T'Par
An outcast among her own race, and only spoken of as a V'tosh ka'tur, or a Vulcan without logic

T'Par had known for almost a decade that she suffered from Tuvan Syndrome
An incurable degenerative neural disease, and would eventually succumb to its debilitating effects

Using her abilities, she would 'condition' someone to assume the identity of a recently deceased felon
Once programmed, her associates would arrange for his incarceration in the same facility as the Yattho leader
His sole responsibility would be to ensure the successful escape of Rallos
Who would then undergo interrogation by T'Par, until inevitably revealing the information his former associates urgently needed


ooo000ooo

[David Tan]

Starbase Forty-Seven ::

All the team were taking full advantage of the time off they had been given following the successful conclusion of their last investigation, all apart from Iorte Clancy, who was still in the Medical Centre following complications after his leg was broken in the capture of Rallos and the Pirate Group, but even he was getting out tomorrow, so would have several days to himself .....

David was taking the time to catch up on his reading... He had always been a fan of old books, and had a quite extensive collection of first editions, he was especially interested in the science fiction and horror genrés and was quietly proud of his collection of 'real' paperbacks from the nineteenth and twentieth-century Earth writers. He had just finished 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmonds and was on Alpha Promenade heading to an old book dealers' establishment. The family had been dealing in old and rare books for centuries, and even though it was almost impossible to find a paperback in good condition, 'Franklin & Jankins Rare Books' always seemed to find something of interest.

When he had returned to his quarters there was a message from the bookshop - The book he had been asking for had finally arrived ..... Franklin, of Franklin and Jenkins, was over a hundred years old, but he could almost tell you the date a book was printed just by touch alone and was more accurate with aged hand-written folio's. David was eager to get to the shop, he had been waiting for a genuine hardback copy of this book for months, and it was finally here.

Entering he was greated by the 'old man' as Franklin referred to himself, being almost a week older than his life-long partner, he led David into the back room, where he handed Tan a paperback book, the cover wrinkled and cracked with age, the corners turned over, but it was the book he had been waiting for, and as long as it was readable that was all that mattered. The two had a deal of sorts, where David brought back books he no longer wanted and allowed the shop to pass them on. As he skimmed through the pages old man Franklin walked over to a tilted lectern and called him over, intrigued, he crossed the shop floor ..... Franklin tentatively removed the dustsheet and David almost felt as if he would pass out!

Frankenstein
or
The Modern Promentheus
⁘
Mary Shelley
⁘
1818

He could hardly believe he was looking at a first edition of a book written almost six 'hundred' years earlier. This, he decided, was going into his most treasured collection. The two men sat down, discussing prices, Tan knew that Franklin must have paid a small fortune for the book, but he had to have it, and finally agreed on a price. The two agreed on a time when he would pick up the book, and watched as it was replaced in its airtight container, and put back into the aged safe at the back of the shop. Thanking Franklin, he picked up the dog-eared paperback and left the shop ..... Normally he would return to his quarters, but it was still relatively early, and today he felt like celebrating after his purchase.

O'Toole's Bar & Grill
Alpha Promenade ::

Taking a seat at the bar he ordered something to eat and a glass of Larger, while Kara went off to fill his order he opened the paperback and began to read. He almost jumped when the bar's manager tapped him on the shoulder, in front of him was a large steak, salad and chips, along with an ice-cold larger:

"Something interestin' then?" Kara asked, glancing at the book.

"Frankenstein," he said, turning the book so she could see the cover.

"Monsters is it..." she said, clearly unimpressed as she looked over his shoulder, "... You're bein' watched," she whispered with a secretive grin. David turned to see a Vulcan woman standing a few metres away, she was looking directly at him.

"Can I help you?" he asked. For a moment the woman didn't seem to know one way or the other, but finally, she took a step forward, eyes flicking between him and the book.

"You are, David Tan?" she asked.

"Yes?" he replied, confused.

"I would speak with you," the Vulcan said, turning to walk away until David spoke.

"Erm... You're willing to join me, but I've just ordered this, and I'm not about to let it go to waste," she returned, eyes on the plate.

"That is ..... Meat!" she said.

"It certainly is," Tan replied.

"You will come with me," the woman said.

"Look, if this is something 'official' you can report any issue to Security, they will put you in touch with the relevant office," the Vulcan looked at him for a full minute, then turned and walked out of the Bar. Shrugging he turned back and picked up his knife and fork. Kara grinned, making some comment about his magnetism, he ignored her witty comment as he cut a segment off the steak before pausing halfway to his mouth to glance back at the doors, half expecting the woman to be watching him, but there was no sign of her... Shrugging, he tucked into his meal thinking nothing more of the cryptic conversation from moments earlier ..........

[David Tan]

After enjoying a late meal David decided he would pick up his newest purchase from the bookshop .....

Leaving O'Toole's he headed back along the Promenade, Franklin usually remained open long after the majority of the establishments on the Promenade had closed so he expected the shop to still be open. As he approached he could already see the lights were off and felt a hint of disappointment that he would have to wait to pick up his book. Despite his protestations, he had been persuaded to meet friends who were holidaying on Risa for a few days break before returning to duty, he was leaving in the morning, so the book would have to remain in the shop until his return, sighing he turned to retrace his steps towards the nearby bank of turbolifts.

"Level one four three eight," he ordered as the doors slid closed.

Walking along the corridors towards his quarters, he could have sworn he wasn't alone, he had turned to look over his shoulder several times before telling himself he was being paranoid. As he reached his quarters he paused again, looking back along the corridor, it was only twenty hundred hours, so there should have been people moving around, but the corridor seemed completely empty apart from himself, he was about to walk away when a young family approached, the little girl saying 'hiya' as they passed... He was reaching to enter his access code into the pad beside the door when he paused, 'Bloody hell, maybe you do need a break' he thought to himself as he entered the code. The door slid aside to reveal a darkened room, the only light filtering in from the window:

"Lights..." he ordered, before stepping over the threshold and into the quarters proper the door closing behind him, "Lock," Satisfying himself that there was no evil bogeyman lurking in any of the other rooms he took time to pack some things for the trip. Once done he put the backpack next to the door to the quarters and went to take a shower.

He had intended on starting the paperback but realised how tired he was. He unzipped one of the pockets on the backpack and slid the book inside. In the bedroom, he requested an alarm call, clambered into bed and turned out the lights. There was a brief moment where he pondered the idea that someone else was in the room, but shaking it off as his imagination that was clearly running riot due to his overtiredness, he turned over and fell asleep almost instantly ..........

Next Morning ::

The computer had done as requested in waking him on time. He had showered, dressed, and then gone down to Alpha Promenade to have breakfast at O'Toole's ..... Sean was on duty for the early morning customers, mainly shopkeepers or Starfleet personnel go on or off duty shifts, he joked with David about joining him on Risa, receiving a dig in the ribs from Kara for even thinking about going to what she jokingly referred to as a 'Den of Sin and debauchery' telling Sean it would be a cold day in Hell before she would allow him to go there.

After breakfast, Kara and Sean walked him to the turbolifts telling him to have a good time. As he stepped in the 'lift he wondered if they were checking he actually went and didn't go hide in his quarters for the three days. He requested Observation Lounge on Delta Docking Arm and waited .....

Stepping from the turbolift, he headed straight to customs to confirm his reservation on the USS Anastasia. With two hours to departure, he headed for the seats closest to the panoramic windows and sat down before rummaging in his rucksack for the book he was going to read while away, and with time to spare he thought he may as well begin... He had read only two pages when a shadow fell on him, he looked up to see the Vulcan woman!

"I will speak with you," she said. David always considered himself a patient kind of person, but this was getting beyond a joke, he closed the book, placing it on the seat next to him, making it clear there was no offer for her to sit forthcoming.

"Look, Miss..." he said, seeing her eyebrows raise, "... As I told you yesterday if you have an issue report it. If you wish to speak to me in any 'official' capacity, then you need to contact our offices and they will arrange something for when I return to the Starbase, other than that I don't know what to tell you, other than I don't appreciate being followed,"

"Followed?" the Vulcan repeated.

"Followed, now if you don't mind ....." David said, hoping his manner would ensure her departure, alas he was mistaken:

"I wish to speak with you, in private, maybe if you would accomp ....." she stopped talking as he interrupted,

"Sorry, but I've had my fill of following mysterious women into dark alleys..... I'm on holiday and will be back in four days, I'm sure whatever it is can wait, but if not I'm sure there will be someone available to assist you," she stood over him for a long moment until he picked up his book and made a point of continuing to read while pointedly ignoring her presence. Finally, the shadow, and the Vulcan casting it, disappeared, with a sigh he continued to read. An hour later the boarding announcement was given and he stood, tucking the book away before picking up his rucksack. At the walkway, a Steward took the bag off him handing him a card showing his suite.

Deciding to watch the massive vessel depart the Starbase he went to the for'ard Lounge and ordered a drink before taking a seat ..... Following departure he took a stroll around the Starship, trying out a couple of the games lounges before sitting down for the evening meal. There was a live show in one of the theatres so in the spirit of being on holiday he took in the surprisingly enjoyable show. After a few drinks at the bar, he realised he was beginning to feel the effects of his busy first day and headed for his suite. He showered and dressed for bed before retrieving the novel from the rucksack, he sat in one of the plush seats beside the large room-length window and read until the early hours... Finally heading to bed realising that now he was on the way, he was actually looking forward to the break.

He woke to sunlight streaming through the window ..... For a few moments, he lay still, then again looked towards the window. What should have been a large liquid aluminium pane, had transformed into a tall lancet-type frame encasing thick glass. Realising instantly that something was seriously wrong, he climbed out of bed and approached the window, leaning forward to see outside ..... He could see trees beneath his window and a river beyond, and a large forest area beyond that, reaching out he slipped the catch upwards then pulled, but the window only moved a few centimetres before hitting a stop.

Quickly he moved to the door and grasped the old iron handle before turning it, alas the door remained closed ..........

[David Tan]

With no means of getting out of the suite, David looked around, suddenly realising his rucksack was nowhere to be seen .....

Quickly he began searching, the bedroom first, where he found his clothes had been neatly placed in the drawers, frowning, he moved to the wardrobe where he found his rucksack at the base. Pulling it out he glanced at the door then checked the concealed pocket inside for his phaser, but it was gone, as was the commbadge he normally carried. He threw the rucksack against the far wall and returned to the door ..... He hadn't realised earlier, but now he could see that the walls were beige stone, large interlaced blocks, angled it to accommodate the clearly heavy door and windows.

"Computer. End program."

"Computer. Exit ....." he was beginning to believe he was no longer aboard the USS Anastasia.

Again he began a thorough search of the rooms open to him, but apart from his paperback on a small table in the living room, he found nothing that could help him find out exactly where he was or how he was going to get the hell out. He dropped into a chair and picked up the book, opening it where he had left off on the ship and began reading. He estimated he had been reading for around an hour before realising he was beginning to feel hungry, he put the book down and went to check the kitchen area, it was pristine, as if never used. He was about to vent his growing frustration when he heard the sound of something heavy being moved, he walked back into the living room and saw the door opening.

A man entered with a tray, he nodded to Tan as he walked across the room to put the tray on the dining table. Without a word, he began to leave:

"Excuse me," David said, forcing the man to turn as he reached the door.

"Es tut uns leid?" the man replied.

"Where am I?"

"Ah, Sie befinden sich im privaten Gästeflügel von Schloss Colditz bei Leipzig...?" the waiter replied, realising his guest couldn't understand him so he tried again in English, "... Apologies, you are in the private guest wing of Colditz Castle, near Leipzig, Germany?"

"Earth?" Tan said, feeling immediately stupid given the obvious failure of his universal translator.

"Of course," the man said, turning to leave once again.

"WAIT...!" David said, taking a step towards the man, who instantly took a step back, "... What am I going here?"

"Sorry?" the man replied.

"I'd like to speak to your Manager, would that be possible?"

"You have a complaint, Sir, I am sure I have done everythi ....."

"No, no ..... Please, if you could just ask the Manager if I could speak with him ..... Or if it's convenient I could come down to reception with you, it won't take a moment," David said, again taking a step forward, the man matching his, now on the threshold of the room, his hand on the heavy handle.

"No, Sir, we have been informed you need your rest, I will have the Duty Manager attend you shortly," the waiter said, pulling the door closed, Tan heard the heavy bolt slot into place as he grasped the handle on his side.


~~~~~~~~~~


He'd finished the meal provided and was reading when he heard the bolt of the door, looking up as it opened.

"Well, you're nothing if not persistent!" David said as the Vulca woman entered the room, behind her was a man holding a phaser.

"I trust you have been treated well...?" the woman said, moving around the room to the window, "... Exceptional view is it not,"

"..... WHO THE HELL ARE YOU, LADY.....?" Tan asked, beginning to rise to his feet but deciding otherwise as the phaser moved until it was aiming at his head.

"All this could have been avoided had you agreed to speak with me on Starbase Forty-Seven..." she replied, realising that her guest wasn't going to continue the conversation until she answered his question, "... Very well. My name is T'Par... Formally of the Vulcan High Command. You are here to help us gain access to a small piece of information,"

"I'm not helping you to get anything," Tan said, wondering if she had turned up the heating in the room.

"Oh, I believe you will be more than willing to help once you and I have become, closer..." T'Par said cryptically, walking over to close the window he had left open, "... You see, the wine you enjoyed was laced with numerous additives, among others were mescaline and psilocybin, these will help you relax and become more susceptible to suggestion ..... Tomorrow we shall begin, but in the meantime, I hope you enjoy your surroundings," she said, walking out of the room, the guard grinned then closed the door, the bolt slamming into place was like a bomb going off in his mind and he collapsed to the carpeted floor unconscious ..........

[David Tan]

He was sitting on the wide stone windowsill, enjoying the view of the lush countryside beyond the river, when the door opened .....

"A mand entered, picking up the untouched meal tray, he shook his head but didn't comment as he retreated from the room. T'Par entered, her loyal guard close behind her stepped to one side of the door before leaning on the wall, as if disinterested in proceedings. T'Par waited until he turned around to acknowledge her presence.

"You really should eat something Mister Tan. I would hate for us to have to use force to prevent any malnourishment on your part,"

"I'm eating nothing you provide, so whatever you're planning you may as well begin,"

"I assure you that any food brought to you henceforth will be free of any, additional supplements, the first drugs were to ensure you didn't try to damage yourself during the night,"

"Night... Really...?" David repeated, not believing for a second that he had been unconscious for so long, "... Hmm, I don't believe I've been here that long, and there are a couple of other things I'd like explaining ....."

"Feel free," the Vulcan said, raising an eyebrow expectantly.

"Ok ..... Well, Even for the USS Raven utilising her transwarp, Earth is four days from Starbase Forty-Seven... So if this actually 'was' Earth, you must have kept me unconscious for those four days, and by now I've been reported missing, Starfleet will have begun searching for me, so why not let me see my actual surroundings?" T'Par remained silent for a moment then nodded to her associate, the room immediately changed, from the castle room to the black walls and gold crisscrossed web of a holosuite, the only other physical objects in the room apart from T'Par, Tan and the guard, were two Chesterfield leather wingback chairs, facing each other.

"I underestimated you, Mister Tan..." the Vulcan said, lowering herself into one of the chairs, motioning for him to do likewise, and eventually, with a glance at the guard, he took his seat and waited for her to continue, "... We are aboard our fastest Starship, alas time has forced us to run the warp drive at well above the specified recommendations. It will get us close to the Sol System where a second vessel will replace this one. I had thought a view of Earth might help our cordiality in the days to follow,"

"So we're going to Earth ..... Why?" he asked.

"There is a ta ....." T'Par began but the guard interrupted her.

"T'Par, he doesn't need to know details," the man said, glaring at Tan.

"He will know what I deem necessary..." she replied, her tone making it clear he should remain silent, "... There is a 'small' task I wish you to undertake. Once you successfully complete that task, you will be returned to Starfleet, unharmed,"

"Let me guess ..... This 'task' of yours isn't exactly of the legal variety?" Tan asked, grinning as he began to realise who he was dealing with.

"No, it is not... But I assure you that should you choose to cooperate in this venture, no harm will come to you..." she leaned forward looking into his eyes then continued, "... Have you ever participated in a Vulcan mind-meld?"

"No, and before you ask, I'm not about to volunteer,"

"Alas, I'm afraid it will be necessary for us to join minds, likely numerous times, so I may instil the calm you will need to undertake your task, any errors on your part could prove, extremely detrimental, to your wellbeing,"

"Well, you'll just have to trust I can manage,"

"I afraid on this point I must insist..." T'Par said, rising before heading towards the door, "... We will take you to more appropriate quarters, there will be a replicator at your disposal, please take the time to order a meal. Once you have dined I will send for you and we will talk further," she waved the guard out and he could hear issuing instructions, she turned and nodded briefly before leaving, this time rather than a door closing, he was ushered out of the holosuite and along numerous corridors before making use of a turbolift. He was led to a door which opened on their approach, the rooms were large, clearly more suitable to someone of Ambassadorial level than a prisoner.

"The door will remain unlocked, but please remain here until summoned," the guard said, walking away leaving Tan alone. He approached the window, wondering what they wanted with him ..........

[David Tan]

He had been in his new accommodation for around an hour, in that time he had made use of the sonic shower and ordered himself something to eat. He had of course considered the thought that the Vulcan could have quite easily ensured any drugs they wanted him to take could have been invisibly incorporated into the replicators menu but realised if they wanted him drugged, it could easily be achieved without deception.

He was reading the book they had allowed him when the door chime sounded, he looked up as the door slid aside. His former guide entered with a PADD handing it to him:

"T'Par requests you familiarise yourself with the details on this, she will want to speak with you later,"

"For a test?" he asked, sarcastically, alas his efforts fell on unamused ears and the guard turned and left. Folding the page corner over he put the book on the table and lifted the PADD, resting his thumb over the activation point ..... For a split second, he thought he was looking at an image of himself, albeit unshaven, then he realised it was someone with remarkably similar features.

"..... Or it's you who have remarkably similar features to the man on screen....." he thought as he began to read:

----- CLASSIFIED LEVEL TEN OR ABOVE ONLY -----

OFFICE OF JUDGE ADVOCATE GENERAL STARFLEET
WASHINGTON NAVY YARDS
WASHINGTON
EARTH

ADMIRAL CAMERON NICHOLS
JUDGE ADVOCATE GENERAL

UNITED FEDERATION of PLANETS
v
MARINE COLONEL PAUL BARRETT

----- CLASSIFIED LEVEL TEN OR ABOVE ONLY -----

As he read, he wasn't sure how he felt about the former Marine Colonel ..... He had been given extremely explicit instructions, with zero leeway to interpret those orders as he assessed the situation on the ground. As a result, lives were lost! ..... He glanced at the door, wondering how a disgraced Vulcan had managed to get hold of the document, then continued reading ..... Page after page of evidence showed he disregarded instructions on numerous occasions, finally having to be relieved of Command by his Executive Officer, who subsequently gave evidence for the prosecution during the Colonel's Court Martial hearings ...... Almost in disbelief he continued to read the charges, some, in his opinion, clearly unwarranted in light of the situation, but the Court disagreed, returning 'Guilty' verdicts on each count, effectively throwing the proverbial career-ending 'book' at Barrett!

He was so engrossed in the report that he didn't hear T'Par enter, and jumped, startled, when she placed a hand on his shoulder to attract his attention:

"My apologies, I had not intended to startle you..." the Vulcan said, glancing at the PADD before continuing, "... Interesting gentleman, is he not,"

"That's something of an understatement, even from a Vulcan," David said, placing the PADD on the small table next to his chair.

"The rooms they meet your approval," she asked.

"Beats a draughty castle in the Alps..." he replied as the woman picked up a chair, placing it in front of him before seating herself, "... So, why am I reading this," he asked, pointing to the discarded PADD.

"You need to memorise the information in those documents thoroughly, it is imperative you are perfect if asked any questions,"

"He looks a lot like me..." Tan commented as the Vulcan watched him closely, he glanced a the open door then back to her, "... No guard ..... What's to stop me from leaning forward and breaking your neck?"

"It would be, unwise, for you to attempt to harm me, Mister Taan, I am stronger and faster than you are, I would also dislike having to demonstrate the fact, so please, try to reign in your impulse to harm me,"

"I'm beginning to lose interest in our little venture T'Par, why not tell me why I'm here!" he said, knowing that despite her warning, he was losing his patience.

"Very well ..... With our assistance, Colonel Barrett absconded a week ago while en route to the Penal Settlement in New Zealand... Unfortunately, before he could agree to help us, he fell foul of people who wished him harm... You... Impersonating the aforementioned Colonel, will be recaptured, and subsequently assigned to the settlement... Federation Security kept his escape secret while an extensive search is carried out. But due to the untimely demise of the Colonel, our 'window of opportunity' as you Humans say, is now very limited. Thus as you might appreciate, our haste to expedite proceedings, and the need for my assistance in helping you thoroughly learn your new identity,"

"I'm a fast learner," David said, actually making T'Par grin at the comment.

"Alas, not fast enough I fear... I can assure you that our joining will do nothing other than heighten your recall abilities, erasing any pause in replying when questioned, it, like what is to come, is vital to your success..." she stood, replacing the chair where she had taken it from, then looked down at him as two men entered the room, "... It appears that the Colonel met with some rather 'unimpressed' former colleagues whilst incarcerated, he was beaten rather badly,"

With a look back at him, she left the room ..... The two men closed and locked the door then began to walk towards him. Realising he was about to proberbly get the beating of his life, he decided he was going the 'quid pro quo' route ..... Rising, he smiled at the two of them, unexpectedly leaping forward, slamming a fist into the jaw of the bigger of the two, the man hit the bulkhead hard, collapsing to the carpetted floor. Spitting blood, he clambered to his feet before both of them closed of him.

Then all hell broke lose! ..........

[David Tan]

.......... He opened his eyes to see a Vulcan Doctor standing over him. As David opened his eyes the doctor spoke to someone out of view:

"Inform T'Par he is awake," he said before walking away ..... Moments later T'Par came into his field of vision, he tried to sit up but the pain was overwhelming and he gave up.

"You fared well, considering," she said.

"Considering?"

"The two men who were sent to, interact, with you both had injuries that needed attention, they seemed to have underestimated your resolve in light of their unwanted attention,"

"Well, I never was one for not hitting back," David said, feeling his mouth filling with blood, he looked left and right, hoping to see something to use but with nothing to hand, he was forced to swallow the blood.

"Your injuries are, impressive, but not life-threatening," she walked away then returned with a stool, again he tried to sit up, this time succeeding despite the excruciating pain in his face, chest, tentatively feeling along his side, he was convinced he had at least three broken ribs, unsurprisingly, T'Par or the Doctor didn't seem inclined to air his recovery, but the woman did take a glass of water and held it tp his lips so he could sip. He tasted the clotting blood in his mouth mixing with the chilled water, but past caring one way or the other, he swallowed that too.

"A little help wouldn't go amiss," he said, running his tongue around his upper and lower teeth, thankful that they were still all there.

"That would defeat the object of your recent activity I'm afraid, but I'm sure we can help with the pain if you wish?"

"I wish..." he replied, waiting while the Doctor placed a hypospray against his neck, he felt the results of the triptacederine administered, "... Thank you," he said to the Doctor, who gave a curt nod before returning to his other duties.

"Your injuries should be quite pronounced by the time we arrive," T'Par said, clearly happy with her 'henchmens' handiwork.

"Happy to oblige,"

"You have a singular sense of humour for someone in your position, I might not have been so accommodating to my hosts..." T'Par said, nodding to someone near the door, "... I took the liberty of requesting some, tomato soup, from the Human menu in your replicator, I trust this is suitable?" she said as the younger Vulcan Officer placed a tray on his lap.

"Yeh, suitable for someone who's getting over the flu, not someone who's been beaten half to death," he replied, the sarcasm obvious, even for the Vulcan's present.

"The, injuries were, unfortunately, a necessity..." T'Par said, suddenly defensive in his eyes, "... I will leave you to your soup. I will return in one hour when we will begin our first meld. I am hoping it will only require two sessions to focus your mind on the details. My Aide, Seva, will remain, if the soup is not to your liking, or you desire something else, please instruct her on your needs,"

David watched her leave then picked up the spoon ..... The soup wasn't half bad, though given the beating he could have been eating old boots and wouldn't be able to tell. Several times he caught the Aide looking at him almost quizzically. He finished the soup and asked her to remove the tray, he felt, despite the injuries, that he could eat something more solid, so asked if she could get him a chicken salad sandwich, with mayo ..... The young woman looked at him as if he'd asked if he could dine on her firstborn, bizarrely he found her discomfort enjoyable.

She left the Medical Center, returning five minutes later with the requested sandwich. He thanked her and took a bite while she looked on intrigued.

"..... Hmm ..... Not 'real' chicken, obviously, but your replicator doesn't do a bad imitation," he grinned through the still not numbed pain as she walked away looking like she was about to vomit.

**********

The Doctor had allowed him to shower and dress in fresh clothes, extremely Vulcan in design, but then he doubted Vulcan Starships had a lot of call for Human clothing. He was sat on the biobed when T'Par entered ..... Again she took the stool and placed it before sim, seating herself before glancing at the Doctor, who looked at him then nodded silently to her before leaving. She leaned forward, but he leaned away to keep her at more than arm's length.

"I would much prefer to do this with your content," she said as her Aide, Seva took several steps towards them, he realised she was holding a phaser. Realising he had no option, he sat up, allowing her to come closer.

"All this will be for nothing if they take a blood sample, or check my DNA," he said with a shrug.

"We have thought of that. One of our, associates, has replaced Barrett's medical information with your own," the Vulcan said, reaching forward before placing her thumbs below his eyes, the eight fingers finding points on his skull only a skilled Vulcan could locate. He looked at her then closed his eyes:

" ..... My mind, to your mind ..... My thoughts, to your thoughts," ..........

[David Tan]

Over the next twelve hours, T'Par and he joined minds numerous times ..... Following each session, recalling detail, even the minutia of vague information regarding the former Federation Marine Colonel, Paul Barrett, came easily to his mind. It was so detailed, he almost had to remember that this was someone else's information, someone else's memories, not his own.

"We will be meeting with our sister ship in six hours, from this moment on you will live and act as if you were Colonel Barrett,"

"Fair enough," David replied, eyeing the clothes that had been provided for him.

"We will undergo one final meld before arriving on Earth..." the Vulcan said, glancing at one of her colleagues, one of the two that had contributed to the bruising around his face, chest, and back, including the broken ribs T'Par wouldn't allow the Doctor to treat, so every breath was laboured, "... I believe you two have met previously, but have not been formally introduced, I think it best to rectify that now... This is Pret, he is one of my most trusted personnel, he will be accompanying you to the surface and will remain with you until your capture. You will meet him once your task is completed,"

"Have you considered that I might just tell the authorities everything the moment I'm out of earshot?"

"It had crossed my mind, yes, and as a consequence, I have taken steps to prevent you from doing just what you suggested..." T'Par said, seeing Tan's expression change as she handed him a PADD, on-screen was a picture, he remembered it from a recent party. Beside him, was Calli Valente, both were holding glasses in the air as a toast,"... Your feelings for your associate will ensure you remain 'dedicated' to the task before you, But I feel I must warn you, regardless of how upsetting this is to you, any deviation on your part will, unfortunately, bring about the untimely demise of that young woman," T'Par said, raising her eyebrows.

"I wondered just 'WHEN' the blackmail element of our association would show itself," David said, glaring at the Vulcan woman.

"Come now, I find it impossible to believe that you thought I would release you to your task without some form of, insurance, against your defaulting of our agreement,"

"I wasn't aware we 'HAD' any agreement," he said, storming from the room, Pret stepping deftly aside to avoid being trampled .....
"We cannot trust him," Pret said once the two were alone.

"He will do as we ask, I have made certain of that ..... Do not worry, once within the Settlement he will seek out and befriend Rallos... Rallos has never met Barrett but is undoubtedly aware of the man's reputation. Once he confides in Rallos that he has a means of escape, Rallos will undoubtedly want to accompany the disgraced Colonel. Once we have the Yattho, Mister Tan will be free to return to his normal life," she said, glancing at the door Tan had gone through a moment earlier.

**********

An hour later, T'Par sought out Tan in the Mess Hall, the vibrations through their feet belaying the severity of the self-destructing warp core .....

"We have one remaining session before you go to the surface,"

"I'm done with your mind melds, you'll have to hope I can remember every detail if questioned," Tan said defiantly, nodding, T'Par finally agreed and left. Not long later, he watched as the smaller craft docked with their almost crippled Starship ..... Pret appeared with a large military holdall, dropping it at Tan's feet.

"Your possessions," he said, stepping aside to allow Tan to pick up the bag then pass. Down the corridor, T'Par had already boarded the smaller vessel and was waiting for them when they arrived. As they undocked, she instructed him on what was to happen next: They would land in secluded woodland close to Sydney, where Tan and Pret would depart and make their way towards the Spaceport, in the hopes of acquiring passage out of Australia for Barrett. Alas, authorities will recognise the Colonel as the escaped felon, and take you into custody. No doubt from there you will complete your journey to the Penal Settlement on New Zealand's North Island.

"..... and then?" Tan asked.

"Find Rallos, befriend him, and make arrangements to escape the Settlement where Pret will be waiting with instructions to contact me,"

"Easy," Tan said, again the sarcasm passing over the Vulcan's heads ..........

03:15 hrs ...
Moore Park
Sydney
Australia ::

The small vessel dropped into the atmosphere, heading for a prearranged area of the park before landing... Tan and his minder had barely stepped onto the grass when the ship rose and vanished into the star-filled night. The two ran towards a waiting vehicle and clambered aboard.

"Where is she going?" David asked, eyeing the driver.

"They will land at the Spaceport, T'Par has, business, in the city,"

"Ahh ....." Tan replied as the maglev vehicle shot forward at an alarming speed.

"I cannot get you into the Spaceport,"

"That wasn't the arrangement," Pret said dangerously.

"What does it matter..." the men fell silent, realising he had said too much as he glanced at Tan, "... I've heard of you Colonel, tough break on those killings," he said, switching his gaze to Pret before again falling silent. The Spaceport loomed ahead, as the man drove into a side street and opened the doors, waiting while the two got out.

"Which way?" Pret asked.

"Back and left, good luck, Colonel," he said before driving away. Pret looked back the way they had come then walked away, Tan a few paces behind. At an intersection Pret stopped, Tan, doing likewise.

"Across the road, through the gate, then right, Transit Port D," Pret said before falling silent.

"..... And when I get there?"

"Don't worry, you won't ..... People are looking for you ..... Two days, no longer. Get the information we require, or bring the Yattho out... Two days!" he said, turning and walking away.

Now alone, David eyed his options, he moved further down the block of offices, keeping as much as possible to the shadows, until the gate was directly opposite. Looking left and right he sprinted across the open ground and tried the gate quickly, half surprised that it actually opened. He began to head in the direction specified, several times dropping behind stacked cargo carriers, then he saw the large 'D' stencilled on the far wall, denoting his destination. He was about to run the short distance to the Port's Offices when someone stepped in front of him.

Still hidden, he took a pace forward and punched the man in the throat, knocking him unconscious. Quickly he dragged the man behind the cargo carriers and took off his uniform... Donning the trousers and jacket he secured the man's identification on his collar and ran across to the Offices.

For several minutes he stood in the shadows wondering just where to go next, he was 'supposed' to be trying to escape Australia, so walking into the open wasn't exactly ideal. He was still pondering viable options when someone tapped him on the shoulder:

"About ti ...." the other said as David turned, "... Who the bloody hell are you mate!" without waiting he bolted across the tarmacked apron towards the vessels standing idle. He'd only gone thirty metres when someone shouted, ordering him to stand still. Ignoring the order he was doubling his efforts to get out of the open when the beam from a phaser passed centimetres from his head, he ducked left, then right, managing to evade the inept marksmen. Alas, he wasn't as lucky the third time around, and the beam hit him square in the back, he was unconscious before he hit the ground!

**********

He opened his eyes, squinting at the bright lighting as he tried to stand, before realising he was secured to the chair he was sitting in.

"Good to see you again... 'Colonel'..." someone said. He looked up, focusing on two men in Starfleet Security uniforms, "... You seriously injured two of my friends in that escape of yours ...." the punch landed square on his jaw. Due to being unconscious, he didn't hear the man saying ' This one is for them!' ..........

[David Tan]

Federation Penal Settlement
North Island
New Zealand ...

First Day ::

When he regained consciousness, he was lying on a cot in a room: white walls, white floor, white ceiling, window, and white door. The only contrast to all the white was a small window approximately five centimetres square, set into the door at eye level. He began to rise before realising that yet again he had been secured. Straps crossed his chest, hips and legs, while both his hands and feet were in heavy leather restraints.

Giving up, he fell back and waited ..... He had lost track of time when the door slid aside ..... A man entered; a nurse carrying a small tray close behind him:

"Ahh, I see our patient is awake..." the man said, shining a small light in each eye in turn before replacing the torch in his pocket, "... My name is Doctor Lacén ….. Otto Lacén. I'm a qualified psychiatrist and the Director of this settlement, you and I will be having many talks in the coming months, hopefully, we will begin to see some light at the end of the proverbial tunnel, yes," he said with a smile as he took a hypospray from the nurse.

"What's in that?" Barrett asked.

"Ohhh, just a mild tranquillizer to relax you while I show you to your rooms..." Lacén said as he placed the hypo against Paul's neck and activated it, he immediately felt the effects and began to relax, "... I believe we can do away with the restrains now nurse. Besides, I always like to let our residents have a look at the lake on the way, we might even allow you down to the shore one day soon, depending on your progress, of course," he stepped out of the way to allow the straps to be removed, then motioned towards the door.

"Thank you," Paul said before stepping into the white-on-white corridor.

"This way please..." the Doctor said, nodding to someone waiting, "... Ahh, introductions, Paul Barrett, this is Fincher, one of our staff, he oversees the wing your rooms are on, so if you ever need anything, he's the man to talk to," Lacén said, that disarming smile beginning to grate ever so slightly on Paul's nerves. They walked along several seemingly identical corridors, almost randomly turning left and right before they entered a long glass-covered corridor connecting two buildings. Off to his left, he could see the lake between the trees, and right was an impressively high range of mountains.

"Nice views," he said, genuinely impressed with the scenery.

"It is indeed, oh, and don't worry, you'll soon get used to the corridors, hell, I got lost countless times when I first took over as Director..." Finally, they came to a corridor with rooms off either side reaching one on the left Lacén opened the door to allow Barrett to enter. There was a living area with a bedroom and bathroom off to the right, a small kitchen on the left. They stood in the doorway allowing him to explore, "... Not very spacious I'm afraid, but we are hoping to expand soon,"

"It's very nice, great view... There's even a little colour," Paul said, referring to the furnishings as he looked at the lake from the living room window.

"There is indeed ..... Good, well, I think we'll let you settle in..." Doctor Lacén said, motioning for the orderly and the nurse to leave, "... There's a good dining area down the corridor, once you've eaten maybe we can have a little chat about how we are going to proceed with your treatment. The index on the monitor will get you through to numerous services, and directly to myself in an emergency," he smiled that disarming smile ad left Paul alone. Barrett stood near the window for a full minute then turned and approached the door, surprised to find it unlocked.

He stepped into the corridor and walked towards the dining area. As he ordered something to eat, he couldn't help noticing diners watching him ..........

[David Tan]

The next morning he woke early, showering before donning the clothes supplied the day before. The door chime sounded and e turned in time to see doctor Lacén and the orderly, Fincher placed a tray on the table and asked Paul for his left wrist:

"Manacles?"

"No, nothing so barbaric.." the Doctor said as he lifted a white band off the tray and placed it over the offered wrist. The orderly picked up a device and activated the band, immediately, the device shrank until resting against Paul's skin and began pulsing, then vibrating before beginning to emit a high-pitched whine. Barrett dropped to his knees clutching at his temples. Seemingly satisfied, Fincher tapped the small device in his hand and the pulse and whine ceased instantly.

Clambering to his feet, nausea washed over him as the orderly handed him a tissue to stem the blood beginning to run from his nose.

"You might have explained," he said, throwing the bloodied tissue into a basket next to the small desk.

"Alas, no, if I were to tell you what to expect, the impact would be lessened... We tend to find that what the bracelet can do if triggered is always more effective if the wearer isn't prewarned... The device monitors your location and health, you can pretty much wander around the grounds at will. If by any chance you start to approach the boundary in any direction, which is unlikely given the size of this settlement, the bracelet will begin to whine. The closer you get, the worse the pain induced. It will increase exponentially until there are no life signs detected..." the Director said, as Fincher picked up the tray and left the room, "... I should warn you, any attempt to tamper with the monitor will result in your immediate incapacitation, incurring server, possible irreversible neural damage, so I would avoid any curiosity you might have... Once you are ready, I would be pleased if you would join me for breakfast on the patio, the wall panels will tell you where to go, just place your hand against it and ask,"

Left alone he eyed the inconspicuous white band, it looked like a watch strap without the watch, but clearly much more dangerous! ..... He went to the bathroom to wash away the drying blood then picked up the jacket off the bed. Leaving his rooms he walked down to the large recreation area finding the room empty, he continued on, exploring several rooms off the main area before retracing his steps.

He was almost back in the recreation area when he remembered the breakfast meeting, he placed his hand on the jet black glass strip running the length of every wall and asked for the Patio then followed the green indicator bar. He was walking down the corridor when he noticed someone approaching, it was a Klingon, neither spoke as they passed .....

"Ahh, thank you for coming," the Doctor said, placing the PADD he was scrutinising back on the table as an orderly asked for their order.

"Impressive place," Paul said, looking out towards the large lake and the forest beyond.

"It serves a purpose..." Lacén said, pouring orange juice for them both, "... You 'do' still like juice I assume?"

"Yes..." Barrett replied with a glance at the PADD before returning his attention to the scenery, "... I don't see any fences, but then ....." he said, nodding to the band on his wrist. Lacén gave a laugh.

"This facility and the land surrounding it is all part of Starfleet Medical Research, we're very lucky to have this establishment. As for fences, no, as you correctly surmise, they are not required. Before we begin your treatment and rehabilitation I think you should spend the day getting used to your new surroundings. There is plenty to do, from recreation to fitness, to music, theatre, swimming, even sailing if you like the open water,"

"This 'treatment' ....." Barrett asked, biting into a slice of toast.

"Oh, different for each resident..." the Director said, pausing to sip his coffee, "... I try to establish a rapport with hose sent here, sometimes that is workable, sometimes not, it usually depends on the patient,"

"That's the first time you have referred to the people here as patients," Paul said, glancing up at the Doctor, who shrugged.

"Well, truth be told you 'are' all patients, but I have found that treating our residents as 'guests' rather than labelling them from the day they arrive, helps establish a more 'relaxed' atmosphere..." Lacén said, picking up his own toast before continuing, "... There are of course those who will not or cannot be given such freedoms, that are housed in one of our more secure facilities, but still within the confines of the settlement,"

"..... Presumably, given we're enjoying breakfast together, I fit into one of the less 'insane' categories?"

"For the time being... Yes indeed, but we both know why you are here, Colonel... You were responsible for the deaths of almost a hundred men, women, and children, after disobeying direct orders. Had the Tau Centra Colony had their way, you would have undoubtedly been strung up by the neck in the town square. Despite your crimes, it was felt you could benefit from being here. I do trust you will do nothing to prove me wrong," the man finished, the unspoken threat obvious. The breakfast continued amiably. Finally, Lacén excused himself, commenting that there was 'no rest for the wicked' as he walked away leaving Barrett alone ..........

[David Tan]

Laying on his back, he remained perfectly still ..... He had heard the 'click' of his door opening, keeping his eyes closed, his body relaxed, he listened intently, giving no outward impression that he was anything but asleep while trying to gauge just where in his room the intruder was located. He heard the smallest of footfalls as the intruder approached his bed, as he inwardly readied himself to react.

Estimating the distance, his arm shot forward, his hand gripping the intruder by the throat, his thumb pushing against the windpipe, while his fingers applied pressure against the man's carotid artery! ... He opened his eyes to see the shadow of the intruder above him and applied more pressure as he began to choke the life from the man. He used his other hand to push himself into a seated position on the bed, the attack immobilised due to an increasing lack of oxygen to his brain.

"Stand... up...!" Barrett whispered, matching the man's move until both were standing facing each other, dropping the hypospray he was holding, the intruder brought both hands up to grasp Barrett's left wrist but they were slapped away. Rapidly pushing forward, releasing his grip of the man's throat, he was flung back against the wall. Rebounding, Barrett slammed a fist beneath his solar plexus, dropping him gasping for breath to the carpeted floor. Paul sat on the end of the bed, the room still in darkness as the man coughed and gagged.

"It's ..... Finc ......."

"Lights..." Barrett ordered, waiting while the orderly composed himself, "... Mind explaining why you are in my room at... One in the morning?" he asked, after a glance at the clock, as he began forcing the orderly into the living room.

"It was the only way I could guarantee not being discovered..." Fincher said, rubbing tentatively at his rapidly bruising throat, "... You were supposed to be sedated," he said, frowning, before retrieving the discarded hypo.

"Yes, well, I never was one for allowing strangers to drop things in my drinks, so I'll ask you again, what are you doing here?"

"T'Par instructed me to help you get to the Yattho," Fincher said, heading into the bathroom. Paul could hear water running as the orderly tried to drink without gagging.

"You couldn't have just pointed him out?"

"She says you have twenty-four hours to extract him or the information she needs,"

"Why only twenty-four?"

"There have been some 'diplomatic' developments since his arrival after his family petitioned for his return, the Yattho Government have agreed to let serve his sentence in one of their, establishments..." Fincher explained, alternating between sips of water and gasps of pain, "... I am to, give you access to his rooms tonight, and if you cannot get him to talk, you're to extract him from the settlement before dawn,"

"Well..." Barrett said, enjoying the orderlies discomfort, "... Getting him to talk could be easily accomplished, though I expect the noise will attract attention, he's hardly likely to give whatever it is, up without a struggle,"

"Then you will need to be outside the main settlement sensor array, a distance of one kilometre, before zero seven hundred hours,"

"I was under the impression this settlement was massive,"

"It covers approximately nine hundred thousand square acres, each of the three main facilities, this and two others, have secondary parameters, thus the distance you will need to cover,"

"..... And this?" he asked, lifting his left arm.

"I can deactivate the monitors you both wear, but I cannot remove them without access to Doctor Lacén's office, once you are reported missing, they will be reactivated, and ....."

"Then my head blows up...?" Barrett said sarcastically, rolling the bracelet around on his wrist, "... You said you can deactivate them, won't it register who's done that?"

"Yes... You will need to take the control from me," Fincher said, again feeling his ever-swelling throat, clearly not looking forward to what would need to happen for the attack and theft to be convincing.

"One step at a time eh..." Paul said, placing a hand on the man's shoulder in lew of an apology. He walked into the bedroom and picked out suitable attire. Dressed, he returned to Fincher in the living room, "... If I can't get him to talk I'll need to make sure he can't raise the alarm," After resetting the hypospray, Fincher handed it to him:

"This will ensure his cooperation,"

"OK, let's go have a talk with our Yattho shall we?" Barrett suggested, but Fincher hesitated.

"I cannot be seen with you, it will raise suspicion once you flee,"

"It's the early hours, no one is going to see you in the time it takes us to get to the Yattho's rooms, and if they do your doing rounds, so let's go!" ..........

[David Tan]

"I was told to give you this," the orderly said, handing Barrett a Type One phaser. Paul checked the weapon before placing it in a pocket, then motioned towards the door. Reluctantly, Fincher stepped into the corridor, Barrett waited inside the room until the orderly motioned it was clear to leave ..... Rallos was in the opposite end of the building, so they had some way to go .....

Fincher set off, his companion several paces behind him. The two approached the recreation lounge, the wide-open space gave no cover, so they had no option but to run the distance and hope they remained undiscovered, leaning against the wall Fincher took a breath then stepped into the open, Barrett was already moving when the orderly spoke:

"Newland, I thought you'd got off doing tonight," Fincher said as Paul took a step back out of sight.

"Yes, we were supposed to be going to the party, but Genna wasn't well so I thought I may as well do my duty shift..." the second orderly explained as he stepped past Fincher, "... What are you doi ....." he began, falling silent as Paul punched the man in his temple from behind, knocking him unconscious. Grabbing the orderly he looked at Fincher then dragged the orderly into the closest room before binding his hands and legs. Taking the sleeve of the man's jacket he tied a knot midway then gagged the man with the knot in his mouth. Taking the hypospray, he injected the unconscious orderly then glared at Fincher:

"What did you do that for, I could have handled him!" he spat.

"He would have seen me had he taken another step, maybe you should have been a little more decisive..." Barrett said, pushing the man behind the desk before returning to the door, "... We're running out of time, which way!" again he was forced to follow the orderly along numerous corridors, passing through two locked doors, at which Fincher used his pass, his actions would be recorded and he would undoubtedly be questioned, hopefully not too intensively.

*****

"This is his door, be careful," Fincher said finally, glancing back and forth along the dimly-lit corridor. Barrett pointed at the door, waiting until the reluctant Fincher opened it ..... They could see the Yattho, prone, his hands at his sides, on what looked like a long table, apparently, this being the Yattho preferred mode of sleep. Paul checked the hypo' then stepped into the room, the only light casting a long shadow as he moved away from the open door. Slowly he approached the 'bed' glancing back once to ensure the orderly was still there. Reaching Rallos, he paused for a second then reached out, placing a hand over the Yattho's mouth while pressing the hypospray against his neck but holding off activating it.

"This hypospray contains a concentrated hallucinogen, it will cause irreparable damage should I use it. I'm going to remove my hand, when I do you will remain still and silent, is that understood?"

Rallos nodded, doing as instructed as the hand was removed, allowing him to take a startled breath, while Barrett instructed the orderly to come into the room and lock the door. He took a PADD from his pocket and handed it to Rallos.

"Coordinates and access codes," Barrett said, applying the slightest pressure on the hypospray's activation cell. Rallos looked from him to Fincher and back, confusion washing of him.

"I... Am sorry... But I do not know what you are referring to," he said defiantly.

"Believe me, you would much rather give me the information than who has sent me here... Now, are you going to give up the information, or not?"

"I don't have what you are asking for," Rallos said, clearly resigned to whatever fate awaited him.

Fighting inwardly to maintain his self-control to batter the Yattho into submission, he glared at Fincher then told Rallos to get up and dress. Again his demand was met with a refusal. This time Barrett could hold off no longer, he reached forward, he let go of the hypo' before snatching the man by his throat and slamming his fist into the man's face. There was a sickening 'crack' as bone shattered, had it not been for Fincher grabbing the arm as it was raised for a second blow, there was no telling how much damage he might have inflicted!

"Get up, dress, or I will sedate you and drag you out of here!" Barrett said menacingly, and after a moments' hesitation, Rallos hessitently complied.

When ready, Barrett instructed Fincher to unlock the door. Paul stood with the hypospray against the back of the Yattho's neck as the orderly opened the door. He had looked away for less than a second, but it was enough... Without warning, Fincher shot back into the room, slamming against the far wall like a ragdoll, Barrett turned to see the Klingon, Gr'vos, standing in the doorway. He was reaching for the phaser when Fincher warned him that any weapons fire within the building would activate an immediate lock-down, effectively trapping them inside.

Even had he tried to retrieve the phaser, it was too late, the Klingon crossed the space between then landing a backhanded blow across his jaw, he tumbled over the bed and into the corner, the hypospray falling from his grasp as Gr'vos strode over and hauled him unceremoniously to his feet, a second blow, then a third landed, and he could feel himself losing consciousness as his Klingon attacker relished in his superiority ..... Spitting blood, and at least two teeth onto the carpet, he was lifted to eye level, his feet half a metre off the floor. Then, finding something akin to self-preservation, he punched his attacker hard over and over with nothing to show. Finally, he placed a hand on either side of the Klingon's head, forcing his thumbs into his eyes!

Gr'vos growled in anger, again throwing Barrett across the room before reaching up, fearful his sight had gone. Blinded in one eye, blood running freely down his face, he advanced, lowering himself onto one knee before slowly reaching down to put one hand around Paul's throat. Barrett realised instantly that it was the end, his vision dimming as the Klingon took his time applying pressure. Across the room, Fincher had retrieved the hypospray and injected Rallos with a mild sedative. Seeing Barrett's life ebbing away, he reset the hypo' before approaching Gr'vos from behind, he placed the device against the side of the Klingon's throat, activating it before Gr'vos could react. The Klingon's blood-filled eyes widened in shock, and he fell forward, almost crushing Barrett as he did so. Fincher rolled the unconscious Gr'vos away, reaching out a hand to help the man shakily to his feet .....

For a full minute, Barrett could hardly control his body as adrenalin coursed through every muscle and fibre. Rallos was coming around with the help of Fincher, without comment, Paul took the hypospray and adjusted the settings, then without hesitation he injected the Klingon with a massive overdose. Gr'vos was dead before the hypo was removed, after a moment of reflection, he turned to the Yattho:

"I have nothing to lose now, so you can come willingly, or die in this room!" Barrett said ..........

[David Tan]

They waited while the Yattho, Rallos, dressed ..... When he was ready, Fincher walked over to Barrett, who was standing by the window looking out onto a cool moonless night.

"I didn't need to kill him," he said as the orderly waited impatiently.

"You had no option, it was him or you, and he was no use to us,"

"Us...?"

"Don't tell me, killing the Klingon caused you to have an epiphany, and now you've gone all 'religious' on us!" Fincher replied.

"You clearly have instructions, this man has something your associates require, and now the Klingon is dead there's nothing preventing you from taking him out on your own..." Barrett said, suddenly realising something he'd not thought of previously, "... In fact, I'm struggling to understand why you need to use me at all?"

"Let's just say your, indispensable. Now, let's go before someone discovers the Klingon's body..." Fincher said, watching the Yattho as he in turn watched the two of them. It was clear something was going wrong with the arrangements made, otherwise, why the convoluted disagreements, Fincher walked over to the desk activating the screen. Each room had basic access available, music, films, books, so those incarcerated would not 'stagnate' in their own thoughts, as Doctor Lacén always said ..... He pulled the keyboard from beneath the screen and entered a code sequence, after a moment the Vulcan, T'Par appeared:

=^= You were told not to contact me until you reached the agreed coordinates =^= T'Par said.

=^= He is .. Hesitant .. He killed the Klingon and is now having doubts as to his instructions =^=

=^= Bring him to the screen! .. .. =^= she ordered, waiting until Barrett could see her.

=^= Colonel Barrett .. You remember me .. Yes? =^= T'Par asked, the smallest of smiles appearing as if Barrett had suddenly fallen into a trance. Unbeknownst to him, T'Par had implanted several subliminal stimuli, on which he would fall into a fugue state, unconscious, but receptive to certain verbal incentives. He would have no recollection of his time in this condition, and once released, would continue to act as if the connection was never established.

=^= .. .. Ye .. esss .. .. =^= he replied, his eyes rolling upwards.

=^= You remember our agreement .. And your .. .. Friend? =^= she waited, seeing Barrett frown as if trying to recall a forgotten memory, his eyes widening as he remembered.

=^= .. .. Yes .. .. =^= he replied, confusion flooding his memories.

=^= And you are aware that you 'MUST' complete the task you were given in order to ensure her wellbeing? =^= T'Par asked, her eyes locked on his.

=^= .. .. I .. Do .. .. =^= he said, still peering into the middle distance, completely unaware of his surroundings.

=^= Good .. Good .. Then complete your task Colonel =^= She instructed, before cutting the comm.

The instant the screen went blank, Barrett staggered backwards, nausea flooding over him until he steadied himself. He looked at the orderly then at the Yattho still against the wall, as if for a moment he didn't recognise them.

"Are you ready?" the orderly asked, glancing at the blank screen, wondering if the Vulcan had done to him what she had done to Barrett.

"Which way?" Barrett asked. Moving from the room, Rallos between Fincher, who was leading the way, while he watched the way they had come. They walked down the corridor until the orderly stopped, he used his access card to open the door and the three stepped into complete darkness ..... After a moment, their eyes adjusted to the dim lighting, Barrett could see they were at the top of a flight of steps. Fincher began down, Barrett jabbed the Yattho in the back to force him to follow.

"Service tunnels..." Fincher explained, "... They pass beneath the lawns and the Administration Building. Once we reach the other end, you'll be out in the open ..... Whatever happens, you 'MUST' be beyond the inner perimeter, one kilometre, before they activate the forcefields. If you trip the sensors while you're still inside the perimeter, the active defence systems will pick you up and, 'incapacitate' you. If they recapture you, believe me, you won't be seeing the sky for a considerable length of time... I'm not supposed to pass beyond that door, but I have changed my mind and will be coming with you!"

Paul nodded, giving the appearance that he didn't care one way or the other, and the three moved further down the service passageway. Several times, Paul asked about doors leading off on the left and right, but he was told to ignore all but their goal. Finally, Fincher told them to wait while he climbed a set of stairs and disappeared up into the darkness, returning moments later telling them the coast was clear ..... As the orderly turned to retrace his steps, Paul wrapped one arm around the orderlies' neck, choking him into unconsciousness. Leaving Fincher at the bottom of the stairs, he pushed the Yattho ahead of him, then used the orderlies identification pass to unlock the door... Tentatively, he pushed it aside, peering left and right, before stepping cautiously into the dawn sunlight ..........

[David Tan]

Outside the building, Rallos kept looking into the semidarkness of the stairwell then finally spoke:

"I assume now you have managed to get us into the open, you have a plan. Or do we just remain here until discovered?" he asked scornfully.

"No ....." Barrett said, glancing at the far off mountain range, where the first rays of the morning sun could be seen.

"That way..." he said, pointing to a small break in the foliagé opposite their position, "... We need to run to the treeline,"

"Run? ..... I am unaccustomed to, running," the Yattho said, his eyes widening as he staggered.

"Then you had better hope you're a quick learner!" Barrett said, pushing the man forward.

Fincher had told him they would come out of the building on the Northern side and would need to head approximately northeast for no less than two kilometres to ensure they were well outside the settlement's inner perimeter sensor array. From then on, they would turn north until picked up ..... With no way of checking the time, he estimated they had tweleve hours of daylight to put distance between the settlement and themselves. He estimated roughly thirty minutes to cross the required two kilometres, easily done on flat, open ground, but after they had crossed the pristine lawns, the going would become more difficult the further they got from the main buildings! ..... With Rallos already gasping for air, they crossed into the trees. The cover here was sparse, the trees laid out uniformly, so anyone checking would undoubtedly see them. Not waiting for the Yattho to recover his breath, he pushed him ahead once again.

He estimated they had made the two kilometres with time to spare, and finally allowed his charge to rest.

Ideally, he would have preferred to scout the terrain ahead, to find the easiest route. But it was likely that left to his own devices, the Yattho would attempt his own escape, or worse, run right back to where they had just left, and that couldn't happen ..... He had no means of knowing when they would be contacted, other than he was expected to be as far away from the settlement as possible before sunset. Fully aware that the distance to the outer boundary of the settlement, possibly hundreds of kilometres, was much further than either of them would be able to achieve on foot, so he was quietly hoping T'Par would already be searching for them. 

Despite the constant complaints, they made good time,the sun steadily climbing into the morning sky.

"I need to eat," Rallos said, glaring at him.

"..... Well unless you managed to pack something, you will have to wait, Fincher said we would be picked up before Sunset,"

"You expect me to go without sustenance!"

Rapidly losing his patience, Barrett looked around, seeing several naturally-growing fruit trees. He snatched a fruit off one of the branches, tossing it at Rallos, then picked a second, and after peeling off the rind he split the fruit, eating it several segments at a time as Rallos looked on.

"What is ..... This!" the Yattho asked.

"Citrus fruit, a mandarin orange I think, peel off the outer layer and eat what's inside, it will help with dehydration..." he said, finishing the first fruit before going back to the trees to pick several more. Placing them in his pockets, he picked a second handful and gave them to the Yattho, "... Look ... We have no idea how long we'll be out here before someone comes for us. Hopefully, it will be the people who need to speak to you, but if not, it will be someone from the settlement. Either way, you eat those, or you go hungry," he said, walking past the man to check far enough ahead while still keeping sight of his companion.

After eating, and no further complaints from Rallos, they continued. The ground ahead began to dip into a shallow valley and he could see where the treeline disappeared, with an uneasy sense of foreboding he began to suspect what might be ahead ..... The going had become laboured, the tall Yattho struggling more than before, and they were having to backtrack or go around natural obstacles. Suddenly they approached where the trees fell away, and Barretts heart sank.

Where he had been hoping for a shallow drop into a valley, instead, the ground fell away abruptly into a deep ravine!

He instructed Rallos to wait, then tentatively approached the edge. The drop wasn't excessive, fifteen, maybe twenty metres as far as he could tell, but it was extremely smooth, almost like slate. Without climbing equipment, he was confident 'he' could manage it no problem, but the Yattho was another matter. Despite his long, almost gangly limbs, he doubted the Rallos would make it more than a metre or two before falling to the ravine floor, likely killing himself in the process.

For a long moment, he stood looking across the fifteen-metre gap, and looking left and right, it looked like the ravine stretched for hundreds, if not thousands of metres in either direction ..... Which unfortunalty, left them with only two options:

They could attempt to climb down, with the obvious prospect of having to climb back up on the other side. Or they risked going east or west, until they found a means of continuing away from the settlement, and their eventual pick-up.

Finally running out of muttered expletives, he returned to the Yattho and explained their predicament ..........

[David Tan]

After a heated argument, it was decided they would go east and hopefully find a means of either crossing or climbing down into the ravine ..... They had been walking for fifteen minutes when Rallos spoke to him:

"We have met before, have we not?"

"Unless you were on the wrong end of one of my assignments, I don't think so," Barrett said.

"No ..... I believe we have met previously, through a mutual acquaintance possibly?"

"I have a very specific set of skills, none of which lend themselves a great deal to socialising ..... My employers, former employers, used me to do the so-called 'dirty work' of the Federation. I, and people like me, would be sent into 'situations' when all other avenues have failed. Our appearance often resulted in a loss of life, so as I told you, I doubt we have met ..... I would have remembered, or you would be dead" he replied with a noncommital shrug.

"Hmm ..... Maybe I am mistaken, unusual for me, but possible," the Yattho said, falling silent as they continued through the brush. Finally, Paul saw what he was looking for - A fracture in the wall of the ravine, approximately two metres at its widest point, he clambered over the rocks to reach the fracture, then disappeared for almost five minutes. When he returned he was admittedly surprised to see Rallos waiting in the shade of a rocky overhang.

"We'll climb down here, then move along the floor of the ravine," he said as the Yattho hesitated.

"First you demand I run, and now you expect me to climb!"

"Your decision..." Barrett said, leaning close to Rallos, his voice falling to almost a whisper, "... But you should know that I was instructed to do one of two things: Aquire a specific set of spatial coordinates, along with the access code to presumably enter whatever is at the aforementioned coordinates. The method I used to attain this data was up to my personal preference, so I don't think my 'employer' is too worried as to how I get what she is after ..... For the very last time, you can stop your constant whining and try to reach a point where we will 'both' be picked up and taken off Earth, and out of the reach of the authorities. Or I can beat the information out of you and throw your bleeding corpse into this ravine to feed whatever wildlife wants to risk trying you out, and while I'm no expert in what wanders around this region, I'm pretty sure they will relish the opportunity for a fresh kill... To them, meat is meat!" Barrett finished, watching Rallos as if waiting for him to come to a decision one way or the other.

"I do not believe that would beat me, to gain information you do not require?" the Yattho replied eventually.

"You would hope I don't need to, but..." he paused, remembering something the Vulcan woman had said, about someone close to him being in danger if he didn't comply, he looked at the Yattho for a long moment, seemingly lost in thought, then continued his train of thought, "... There is always someone, higher up the food chain, with their proverbial finger on the trigger," he said before falling silent once again.

"Interesting interpretation of your employment conditions," Rallos replied before standing to approach the fracture. He moved left and right, trying to find the easiest, safest route to the floor of the ravine. Barrett watched the man as he began to inch backwards, tentatively searching for a foothold of something to grasp onto, and he wondered for a second exactly 'why' he had agreed to do as the Vulcan instructed.

As Rallos climbed down and out of sight, Barrett began his descent, making much faster work of the climb than his companion ..... Approximately halfway down the fracture, he spotted a contrail, high up, but it could always be an innocent ship, or it could be searching for them. He told Rallos to remain perfectly still and to press himself hard against the rocky outcrops until the vessel flew out of sight over the far off mountains. Breathing a sigh of relief he told the Yattho to continue down ..... Reaching the bottom, he looked at Rallos, who was clearly pleased with himself after the climb, enjoying one of the mandarin oranges he had been carrying.

"Thirsty work," he said with a wry grin. Barrett shook his head and set off along the floor of the ravine, checking the walls on the far side for a means to climb back up to the forest floor.

~~~~~~~~~~

They had been walking for approximately an hour, each keeping their own counsel, thinking their own thoughts when he felt he had to ask a question:

"Why don't you just give the Vulcan what she's asking for, it's more likely to keep you alive?"

"As I told you at our first meeting, Colonel, I have no idea as to what she or you are referring to,"

"Well, whatever it is I hope it's worth fighting for because once T'Par gets hold of you she'll undoubtedly use that bloody 'mind-mend' technique on you, and take what she wants from right inside your head, like it or not," Barrett said, feeling genuine concern for the Yattho's wellbeing. Again the two fell silent until Rallos broke the silence:

"Might I ask something, purely as an exercise in decision-making of course...?" he asked, lowering himself onto a rock against the face of the ravine, "... If there was indeed a set of coordinates, and the required passcode to access whatever lay hidden this lair, has it not crossed your mind to ask for your fair share of the supposed spoils, unless she has already agreed on terms?" he asked, taking another mandarin from his pocket.

"We both know that the location and code exists Rallos, you're fooling yourself if you think pleading innocent is going to help you in any way, shape, or form, she'll snatch the information from your head and leave you looking like a two metre tall cabbage!"

"A cabbage, hmm, well.... Continuing our hypothetical situation discussion: If the Vulcan woman has not agreed to reimburse you for 'services rendered' then why wouldn't you wish to make a separate agreement with parties concerned?"

"It's called 'double crossing' for future reference," Barrett said.

"I am, aware," Rallos said quietly, holding eye contact with his kidnapper for a second before Barrett broke it.

"Let's go, the longer we're in this ravine the further out of our way we're going," he said, getting to his feet and walking off ahead of the Yattho, who after another moment, followed.

"This 'hypothetical' bounty could prove very lucrative, to the right parties,"

".... And you would no doubt be willing to split this 'hypothetical' bounty fifty-fifty, I assume?" Barrett asked skeptically.

"If it existed, which of course I have no knowledge about... But who's to say an agreement couldn't be discussed. After all, this is all speculative, given my complete lack of knowledge of any hidden treasure trove. I have just come to realise that conversation, however hypothetical, takes my mind off the ever-increasing pains in my feet, legs, and back...!" the Yattho said, pointing off to their left, "... I believe that is another one of those fractures we climbed down earlier," he said, Paul looked at Rallos then walked over to the fracture, it was much wider, making reaching the top more difficult, and he doubted that Rallos would be as lucky this time around.

"I'll climb part of the way up, see how it will be for you," he said, setting off ..... He was roughly six metres from the floor of the ravine when he felt the stone beneath his left foot move a fraction, he was already taking the weight off that foot when it dislodged and fell away. He reinforced his grip on the rocks above his head to ensure he didn't follow the rock down. An accomplished free climbe, he had had several close calls in his time, and was well aware that even a fall from a relatively inconsequential height could kill the faller. Retracing his path he climbed back down:

"We'll try again, further along, there's no way you'll be able to get up there, it's too unstable," he said, taking a glance at the fracture before walking away, Rallos a few paces behind ..........

[David Tan]

It had taken hours of walking along the floor of the ravine before they found somewhere to climb back up to the forest floor, and eventually, they had chanced upon another fracture in the wall of the ravine. Despite the dangers, they were finally able to get free of the ravine and turn north once more ..... He had no clue now as to how far off their pick up they actually were, by now it could be as far as several kilometres. Sporadically they had spotted the contrails of ships high above and had been forced to hide as best they could to avoid being picked up on their sensors ..... Now, the sun was extremely low in the sky, Paul was already beginning to worry about their rescue!

With no option, they could only continue on, hoping T'Par and her associates found them before Federation Authorities.

As the sun finally set, the forest became more dangerous with each passing moment, several times he or Rallos tripped over protruding roots or dead foliagé, the Yattho almost twisting his ankle more than once. Thankfully, they were able to keep going, but it was clear to both of them that they would need to rest. So their priority was to find shelter then nourishment ..... The mandarin oranges had run out hours before, and he was beginning to feel the first effects of an empty stomach.

Again checking ahead, he found a high outcrop where at some point in the distant past, a tectonic shift had split the mammoth rock, leaving a narrow twisted pass between. He returned to find Rallos eating what looked like an avocado, grinning, the Yattho tipped several of the green-brown fruits he had collected onto the grass, Barrett realised that he had seen wild fruit-bearing trees growing here and there along their path, but believing their rescue would come in hours and not days, he had not seen the necessity of collecting supplies as they went, thankfully the Yattho had.

"OK... We'll rest here, hopefully, the narrow passage and overhang will hide us from anyone searching, though it likely they will have called off the search, at least until it's light," He said, then cracked an avocado on a rock and began eating .....

~~~~~~~~~~

The next morning, as dawn broke, Rallos moved off into the forest alone, returning after several minutes, Paul nodded then left himself for a much-needed bathroom break ..... He was walking back to the small clearing at the entrance to the pass when he heard a low, growling sound close behind him! ... Instinctively he spun, retrieving the phaser as he dropped to one knee, eyes locked on the direction of the noise. He remained motionless for a full minute, but there was no repeat of the sound. He wracked his memory trying to remember what, if any, indigenous predators graced New Zealand's landscape, but for the life of him, he couldn't recall, alas, that didn't ease his worries any as he stood and returned to the clearing.

"I've no idea where this goes, or how far it stretches..." He said, pointing at the entrance to the pass, "... We'll keep going forward for say, three hours, if there's no sign of an exit, we'll double back and try north again,"

"..... I have to say ..... Colonel ..... That our escape and subsequent lack of rescue, are in your language, woefully lacking," Rallos commented.

"You can say that again," Barrett said, walking off ahead .....

For the first hour, they made good progress, the pass never widened more than two metres, and was sometimes much narrower, making progress almost impossible as they were barely able to squeeze through the constantly narrowing gaps. While Rallos was taller by almost a metre than him, he was much slimmer-built, while Barrett was heavier set, having to force himself between the gaps on several occasions, and it didn't help his mood any that Rallos seemed to be enjoying his difficulties ..... They continued on until the Yattho suddenly stopped, looking back the way they had come, he leaned close:

"There is something following," he whispered, nodding over Barrett's shoulder.

"I know," he replied, instructing the Yattho to continue on while he would wait, hoping to surprise whatever was shadowing them. The walls of the pass made sunlight reaching the floor impossible, so they were in constant semidarkness and he closed his eyes for a few seconds before reopening them to allow his vision to adapt to the lack of illumination, all the while trying to hear the slightest sound or footfall. slowly, he took the type one phaser from his pocket and lay on the ground, left arm outstretched, the weapon ready. Suddenly, without warning, it appeared! ..... Had he not been ready, the wolf would have clamped his jaws around Barrett's throat before e could have reacted. As it sprang off its hind legs, jaws agape, eyes locked on his, he fired the phaser, the wolf disappearing, instantly vaporised. Breathing a sigh of relief he rolled over onto his back. He just had time to register the club approaching him through a wide arc before it connected with his temple, knocking him unconscious.

Day Two ::

Groaning, he opened his eyes, feeling intense pain on the right side of his head. Tentatively he reached up, his hand finding where he had been hit, and pain shot through every nerve of his body. Slowly, he peered up to the rim of the pass, the shadows were now falling on the opposite wall from earlier, which confirmed he had been out cold for at least several hours. Climbing shakily to his feet, he looked around him, the phaser had gone ..... So, unfortunately, had Rallos! ..........

[David Tan]

Sitting back down, in the hopes of stopping the dizziness that was making him nauseous, he realised quickly that he was suffering from a concussion following the blow from Rallos. Under ideal circumstances, he would have sought out medical help, but alas, the circumstances he found himself in were anything but ideal ..... He glanced at the scorch mark on the rock wall left from his killing the wolf, squinting even in the low light ..... Knowing that every minute he remained still, the Yattho was getting further and further away, and possibly beyond his ability to recapture, after a moment, he tried to stand once again, realising quickly that he would need to rest a while longer as nausea again swept over him, another pointer to concussion, he knew that it was vitally important he remains awake and conscious!

With his head resting on his knees to cut out the light, he tried to remember why it was important that he get the Yattho to the Vulcan woman. Earlier, he had remembered her threat to one of his friends, someone close to him, family, though he couldn't recall the name, another name 'did' come to him, David. But David who, and what connection did he have with what was happening?

"What if they have found Rallos, and have decided to leave you to your fate, or the wolves?" he asked himself, hardly surprised when there was no reply.

Despite trying, he couldn't recall how long he'd been sitting, minutes, an hour, more? ... It didn't really matter, because he realised that if he didn't get out and find help, regardless of finding his former prisoner, he would end up like so much dust in this godforsaken place. So with one last mental effort, calling on all his military experiance, he clambered to his feet, his back against the wall while he fought to hold back his stomach contents, then once he felt able, he began to shakily follow the wide footsteps of the Yattho that led away and further along the winding pass.

He had gone less than a thousand metres when he turned a corner and stopped dead in his tracks, there, on the golden sand that covered the floor, were four avocado's in a neat line, and beneath them in the sand, the word 'EAT' .....

His thrust and hunger had gone unnoticed as he'd been fighting to surpass the effects of the blow to his head, so now that he saw the word in the sand he realised that he was indeed hungry, so he tentatively bent to pick up the first of the fruits and ate it, enjoying the cool flesh as it passed his lips ..... Sated, he realised he had to keep moving, so he picked up the other three fruits, he put them in a pocket and stumbled on.

It took him another three hours to finally come out of the clostrophobic pass and onto open. It looked like he had exited the pass slightly above ground level, ahead were trees as far as the eye could see, and a tinge of dread washed over him as his precarious situation dawned on him, with his self-control strained almost to breaking point, finally regained his composure ..... Checking the ground, he instantly saw footsteps leading away and down to the treeline, he was about to follow when a shuttlecraft, bare metres above the rockface shot into view flying away from him at speed! ..... Quickly he retraced his steps until he was back in the pass, but close enough to the opening to allow a minimal view. Straining, he could see the shuttle as it banked hard to Port and out of sight, reappearing a moment later further down what seemed to be a shallow valley. The shuttle reappeared twice more, each time further away, before pulling into a steep climb and out of view for the last time.

He concluded that they had either located the Yattho, informing ground search teams of his location, or they had possibly called off the search here and were now heading to a new area.

Satisfied he was safe he exited the pass looking for anything to give him a clue as to his position. Off in the far distance he could see sunlight shimmering off what he thought could be a large body of water, but then it could be reflected sunlight from a large area of desert, without knowing his departure point he had nothing to reference against. Thankfully, Rallos wasn't overcautious as to his movements, and he could see tracks leading down the gentle slope and off to the left, so approximately northerly.

'So, Rallos knew more than he was letting on in regards to finding his way around' he thought to himself as he ate another of his avocados while watching the trees for any sudden movement that might give the Yattho's location away. Alas, he wasn't that lucky, and reluctantly followed the tracks into the trees and under a green canopy of overhanging branches rich in foliage. Every now and then something, presumably a monkey or a bird, darted past high above him, squawking or squeaking its annoyance at his unwelcome presence, each passage accompanied by a shower of falling leaves.

Under the thick rich canopy, there was almost no way to be one hundred percent certain he was moving in a straight line, so he had to keep finding an opening to check the streams of sunlight, ensuring he kept the life-giving star on his right-hand side, changing to keep it on his left after midday, as the sun began its trek to provide life-giving sustenance to the other side of the planet ..... Several times, he was sure he had lost the Yattho's tracks, then he would spot one footfall in soft soil or dew-moistened undergrowth. Suddenly he heard the crack of a branch snapping and turned around half expecting to be rendered unconscious yet again, but this time there was no attacker.

Eyes darting left and right, piercing the undergrowth, he didn't see it at first, it was so small, then he realised there was something looking at him: Golden fur, a body approximately twenty-twenty-five centimetres  long, with a long thin tale around the same length, it was watching him almost quizzically, its head tilting left then right as it inspected its newly-discovered forest companion.

"Geez, you're a bloody monkey...!" he said, self-consciously grinning at his nervous tension, "... I don't suppose you know where my associate is, do you?" he asked, turning to walk off.

The monkey, a Golden Tamerin apparently, though not knowing 'how' he knew, obligingly squeaked something by way of reply.

"Great, so now you're talking to animals," he said, pausing, realising he had never really liked animals of any kind, he had never had one as a pet, not even a goldfish as far as he could recall, but then he remembered the kitten, even remembered her name: Tally. He'd asked for one as a child, and his Mother had finally given in and surprised him with the six-week-old kitten for his seventh bir ..... Fear and confusion washed over him. He knew 'HE' had 'NEVER' owned a pet, but someone else had!

He felt another wave of dizziness as a stab of pain lanced through his skull ..... 'WHO THE 'HELL' WAS THIS DAVID' and why was he recalling his childhood memories and not his own?

Unfortunately, he didn't have time to contemplate the answers as his body finally gave in and he vomited, wrenching again and again as his stomach emptied itself. Dizzy and ill, he could do nothing but finally succumb to the all-enveloping darkness, before collapsing to the forest floor, the Tamerin watched for a moment then came closer, as if watching over its unconscious new friend ..........

[David Tan]

When he finally woke, he was sodden, torrential rain had been falling for some time, and had washed away any signs of the fleeing Yattho. He scrambled to one of the trees, trying in vane to find cover under its expansive canopy ..... He also realised that with the footprints vanishing, the mental 'fog' around him placed by the Vulcan woman had also begun to lift, clearing his head as the pain from his injuries began to ease.

He knew his identity had been shrouded by the Vulcan mind-meld, he wasn't Paul Barrett, he was David Tan, not a criminal, but a decorated Federation Officer. He still needed to find the Yattho, but with no option but to wait out the storm, he watched the rain batter the ground until finally, it ceased, slowing to a drizzle, then stopping altogether as the sun broke through the clouds. Thankful for the warmth, knowing that had it been winter, he would have undoubtedly froze to death, or died of pneumonia before he was found!

He had been moving approximately north for hours when he found a possible trail, wide footsteps, but moving unsteadily, seemingly slewing left and right. Sometimes his quarry paused to rest and David used this time to hopefully close the distance between himself and his former prisoner. He believed Rallos had almost a full day on him now, so it was essential he keep up his punishing pace. But as the day wore on his lack of concentration caused him to loose track of the Yattho several times, and at one point he realised thst he had walked a full three hundred sixty degrees, the Yattho unknowingly having meandered in a full circle ..... Several times during the day he pondered on the small primate that had appeared, wondering if delirium had caused him to imagine it.

Later, he found a disused building, possibly an old farm outhouse or barn, and decided to rest, thinking that at least if it rained again he would stay relatively dry.

As night fell he wandered about the progress of the search ..... He hadn't seen anything flying over the area all day, and wondered if Rallos had been recaptured, or had escaped with T'Par and her associates. Realising hunger was getting the better of him, he left the barn to look for something he could eat and hopefully keep down, knowing that the violent vomiting had only helped maintain his weakened state. Unfortunately, he could find nothing edible and was forced to return to his temporary lodgings and another night of restless, worried sleep. Waking the next morning feeling revived, despite his continual hunger he knew he had to move.

Day Three ::

Now that he was no longer under the Vulcan woman's influence, he decided his own survival was paramount, Rallos, if still wandering, was on his own as far as David was concerned ..... For the next two hours he continued north, and was about to rest at a shallow pool when he heard people approaching his location. Quickly he found a section of the bank where tall reeds were growing, and he cautiously climbed into the water trying not to disturb the surface any more than necessary. Turning onto his back, he lowered himself still further until only his face was visible, and then only from the opposite bank. Moments later the two voices approached, he couldn't hear what was being said, but he realised quickly that the two were not Starfleet, so could only be in the Vulcan's employ ..... He heard a splash, presumably one of the two throwing something into the pool before moving away. He remained completely motionless, allowing the two to get well clear, then he tentatively began to lift himself upwards, trying to keep the reeds between himself and the two searchers.

Crawling towards the bank he saw a small pack at the waters' edge, presumably left by one of the visitors, he opened it to find a half-finished sandwich and a flask containing synthehol, and with a silent 'thank you' he finished off the sandwich and downed half of the flasks' contents. He slowly climbed the rest of the way out of the water, watching for any signs of the others' return, but it appeared they had already moved out of sight. So, again soaked to the skin, he undressed, wringing out his attire before stretching his jacket, shirt and trousers out on low-hanging branches. He sat by the pool, warmed by the rising sun, and waited for his clothes to dry out .....

~~~~~

The sandwich and synthehol had at least taken part of the hunger away, enough so he was no longer wracked by stomach cramps. So with new resolve, he pressed on but now hoping to find somewhere he could contact his superiors.

He climbed up a small rock spur and took in his surroundings, hoping to spot any man-made structure, but he knew the size of New Zealand, the outback covered hundreds of thousands of grazing and farmland, interspersed with vast forestry ranges, the majoratory of the Islands' populace enjoying coastal locations, so it was rare to find anyone living so far from others, but they did occur, he just had to find one!

It was late in the afternoon when he heard the same guttural growling from when he was confronted by the wolf, now there were at least two, likely more, somewhere behind him. It had occurred to him that had he the means, and a phaser, he could have retraced his journey and returned to the Settlement, but it was already three days behind him, so he had no option but to keep ahead of the pack following, sighing as he broke through the treeline and saw a stretch of open land. With no choice, he tried to keep low as he ran the five hundred metres, hoping none of the wolves were watching his progress from the shadows ..... As he entered the cover of the forest he looked back, but thankfully, his hunters were nowhere to be seen.

Having to make detours now and then due to tarrain he tried to keep to his heading. Then he suddently heard something ahead of him, he dropped to one knee, peering intently into the brush, but the noise had subsided, whatever it was seemed to be moving away. Cautiously, he moved closer, trying in vain to see through the smallest gaps, until he reached the clearing in the trees. On the opposite side, half hidden by the shade of the treeline, there was something was on the ground, and as he approached, he quickly realised that it was the body of Rallos. Closer, he could see that one leg had been broken, and there was a deep gash running from the top of his head down through the right eye and to the chin, both clearly caused by a fall from height. He looked up at the tree, seeing a long smear of blood on the trunk, which confirmed his thoughts. The Yattho had possibly been trying to find a suitable heading and had lost his footing.

Glancing back the way he had come, he was surprised not to see the wolves he had heard earlier. He looked around for a suitable branch to use as a spade, and began to dig in the soft still moist earth beneath the tree ..... It had taken considerable time, but he finally finished. Before he continued, knowing his actions were necessary to help him survive, though all the while feeling like a grave robber of the sixteen hundreds, he went through the Yattho's pockets, retrieving the phaser, several avocados, and a carton half-filled with water, he placed them to one side, then with a moment of reflection, he lowered the body into the makeshift grave, using his hands to cover the body thoroughly, not wanting it desecrated by the local wildlife until he could hopefully return to retrieve it.

Already tired from the unexpected exertion, he ate one of the fruits and sipped at the water before placing them and the phaser in his pocket, then with a glance at the grave, he left Rallos alone ..........

[David Tan]

With Rallos dead, he was beginning to feel concerned about the progress, or the apparent lack thereof, of the search for the two escapees... The authorities, who he presumed still believed him to be the escaped former Marine Colonel Barrett, and the Vulcan, T'Par, who had used her mental capabilities to mind mend with Tan and enforce the belief that he actually 'was' the Marine under orders to get specific information from a Yattho prisoner or extract the man himself for interrogation.

There was no way either party could know the Yattho was dead unless his buried body had already been found, which he doubted, so his worries were twofold: Would Doctor Lacén believe him regarding his true identity, and would the Vulcan allow him to live to tell of his treatment? ... Unfortunately, he doubted either scenario was likely to see him back on Starbase Forty-Seven as if nothing had happened. But he made the decision to hand himself over to the searchers at the first opportunity .....

~~~~~~~~~~

Now the game plan had changed: Rather than avoiding any area that might be populated, he was actively searching for someone to make himself known to.

Finding higher ground he surveyed his surroundings: There was forest or open areas of grassland as far as the eye could see in every direction, but off to the west he could see what looked like a small group of buildings in a circular open piece of land, so making a note of the direction he clambered back down to ground level and set off ..... Earlier, he had heard what was likely to be fast-running water, possibly a stream or river running to lower ground, and he wanted to avoid having to get soaked yet again if at all possible. He had estimated the buildings to be approximately four maybe five kilometres away, so he was going to pace himself to hopefully get there before the sun began to set.

Several times he had to detour due to unsurpassable terrain, then he was faced with the one thing he'd hoped to avoid: The canyon was deep, and from his position, he was unable to see the bottom, which wasn't reassuring, but he spotted a means to cross, of sorts, about two hundred metres to his left, so it was there he headed.

He stood looking at what he had clearly mistaken as a bridge, 'Yeh... Maybe a thousand years ago' he muttered to himself ..... Crossing the canyon was little more than three thick ropes, no more than ten or twelve centimetres in diameter and in a triangle configuration, two above and one below. On the bank, there was evidence that the 'bridge' had one day been much more substantial, with a fourth, now severed rope, which had held planks to walk on, but with the rope gone, the remaining planks hung vertically, and of no use to anyone. He pulled on each of the ropes in turn, not liking his chances, but it was either risk crossing here or going one way or the other parallel to the canyon until an alternative presented itself ... So ...

With a deep breath, he grasped the two top ropes and tentatively put his foot on the lower cord, they each make frighteningly unreassuring creaks as he allowed his full weight to settle.

He took one step, then a second and third, until he was right at the edge, his next step would see him precariously poised approximately a hundred metres above a swiftly-flowing rock-strewn river below. He had a flashback of when he and his father had taken a trip to India when he was eleven, and their crossing a similar but much sturdier bridge, realising it wasn't helping, he shook the memory off then took the next step ..... With each one, the 'bridge' creaked and groaned, as if insulted he was even trying at all to pass. Planks dislodged, falling into the torrent below never to be seen again.

He had never had any fear of heights, but almost every step was beginning to fill him with the thoughts of imminent death. So, onward, silently counting off the metres, and creaks as he made his way across ..... By approximately halfway across, his hands were beginning to cramp and he was fighting inwardly to relax his muscles before he lost control of one hand or the other, either of which would have resulted in a fall. He was using the instep between the sole and heel of his boots, feet turned outwards, so at least he wasn't suffering there, and he bizarrely wondered how circus tightrope walkers coped.

Again maintaining his composure he continued on when he heard the unmistakable sound of something snapping!

He looked back the way he had come, realising that he was now past the point of no return, it being closer to the opposite bank than the one he'd left. Standing watching him was another of the wolves ... It was switching between its prey and the rope.

"..... HA! ..... TOO BAD!" he said, defiantly pummeling the rope, before turning away from the wolf to continue his precarious crossing. He was still a good thirty metres from the bank when he felt the chorded rope in his left hand judder. For a few seconds, he closed his eyes, and though not religious, he offered a silent prayer to help reach his goal. When the rope seemed to 'twitch' again, he looked back, where to his utter amazement, the wolf was gnawing at his lifeline, pausing every few seconds, presumably to confirm its next meal was still waiting for its attention.

Completely baffled, David realised he was irrationally running through reasons why chomping on the rope wouldn't help with the wolf's hunger issues, given he would fall and be whisked out of sight well before the bloody animal, despite its obvious intelligence, could get at him. Or maybe its friends were waiting downstream to pluck him onto the dinner table, 'Who the hell knew with wolves!' he thought, turning away from the carnivore and increasing his pace across the gap. It took another full two minutes to get within a few metres of the far bank, and as he took the last steps he realised that the wolf had seemingly given up trying to dislodge him, but when he looked back, he could have sworn it looked at him right in the eyes, glanced away along the bank then looked back at him before running into the treeline and out of sight ..... David had the uneasy feeling that it hadn't given up its hunt!

~~~~~~~~~~

It was close to sunset when he cautiously approached the group of buildings he'd seen that morning. Of the three, only one looked as if it had lighting and power, so moving slowly, he made his way there ..........

[David Tan]

Day Four ::

It was just before dawn when he rested in the treeline approximately one hundred meters from the side of one of the buildings in darkness. He had been forced to circumnavigate the three buildings, what he assumed could be the Lodge and two outbuildings, the lodge, was occupied, shedding light for some distance from the porch, so there was no chance of him crossing the gap undetected.

Tentatively he began to make his way across the space towards the darkened buildings, glancing left and right to ensure he had the best escape route should it be needed. Finally reaching the wall, he crouched in the darkness to get his breath back. Despite the fruit and the sandwich, hunger was again becoming an issue, and he hoped there would be an opportunity to find something edible before much longer .....

Ready once again, he began to move along the wall towards the corner, from here he could see what appeared to be a back entrance to the main building with several windows on either side. Crouching, he inched his way across the small grassed area until he was directly beneath one of the windows. He could hear voices but couldn't understand what was being said, and risk trying to look into the room, so he moved further along the wall until he reached an open window, the room beyond in darkness... Tentatively he reached up, grasping the wooden window frame before applying the slightest pressure, smiling inwardly as it gave, opening several centimetres.

He quietly climbed into the room and waited cowered in the darkness for any signs his activity had been heard before approaching the inner door. He estimated he was possibly thirty metres from the room where he had heard the voices, so slowly, he reached up and turned the handle, pulling the door towards him a centimetre, light entered the room through the gap, making him turn away for a second, it was then he realised he had heard the language being spoken before:

"„´ ß˙ø¨¬∂ ˙å√´ ∂´µå˜∂´∂ µø|´... ˙¨˜†ˆ˜/ ø¨¬ †åx|´† ∑åß ˜ø† πå/† øƒ †˙´ ∫å|/刘⁄'"

..... ORION! ..... He quickly realised that these two hunters were likely members of the Orion Syndicate, thought disbanded, though rumours of their exploits continued to surface occasionally... They were nothing more than Assassins for Hire, willing to take on any contract regardless of the target, as long as the price was right, and paid in advance, such was their reputation... Now he knew why the flyovers had ceased, realising quickly that the Vulcan had clearly dispensed with his services, and now, he was just one more problem for her to dispose of... Listening, he was sure that both men were still in the other room, he silently swore, realising he should have had the forethought to take the orderlies' communicator or commbadge, as without either, he had no way to translate what was being said. One thing was clear: He only had two realistic options open to him:

He could kill the two Orions before they got to him, subconsciously reaching down to feel the type one phaser in his pocket, or he could leave the building and try to keep ahead of the hunters until he reached safety. Reluctantly, he found himself dismissing the first option, he had no 'real' evidence that they were actually searching for him, although he doubted they were here for a vacation, so running was the way to go... The Orions were still talking, and again he was frustrated at not knowing what was being said. He knew he would need to find food and fluids before retracing his steps, so he would need to search the unoccupied rooms on the off-chance of coming across something useful.

Opening the door further he looked left along the corridor in the opposite direction to the Orions. Retrieving the phaser, he double-checked it was at its maximum setting, then he tentatively stepped into the corridor and made his way to the door at the end of the corridor, which was thankfully already ajar. The room looked like a small kitchen, plates, cups pans, all sat on dust-covered shelves, clearly, the property was long since abandoned. He crossed the room and opened another door which led to a pantry or storeroom, disappointed when he realised that the shelves contained nothing but more dust. He was about to retrace his steps when he heard one of the hunters approaching!

Pulling the door as close to closed as he could while still having a view of the corridor, he crouched, phaser ready, as one of the Orions entered, the hunter crossed the room and opened what David believed was the door to the back of the building, he heard the man saying something, then the sound of a phaser rifle firing. With a cheer of success, the Orion left the room and then returned, dragging what looked like a sheep or ram, a scorched hole midway along its body. The second assassin entered the room, seemingly appreciating the kill before he fired on a pile of wood and threw the corpse on top of the burning pyre.

Still hidden, David could do nothing but wait for an opportunity to escape.

It took two hours for the animal to cook, and he heard satisfying grunts as the two ate their fill before heading back into the house. He could hear equipment being moved around so took his chance to leave the pantry and head to the back door. The remainder of the 'meal' was on the porch area, still warm from the fire, so he risked tearing several large strips of flesh off the body before running back to the treeline. Once concealed he took a strip and bit into it .....

He was about to continue on when a shuttle crossed overhead, but rather than continue on it turned in a lazy arc, landing at the front of the building. For a second he believed he'd been located, and half expected the Orions to appear and cut him down, but when no one appeared, curiosity got the better of him, and despite the danger, he moved further through the treeline until he could see the shuttle. Unfortunately, whoever had delighted was out of his field of vision, but he could hear someone speaking to the Orions, too far to hear what was being said, but not too far to realise they were speaking in Federation ENGLISH!... He could do nothing but listen as the newcomer seemed to be making it perfectly clear that Tan was not to escape under any circumstances. The Orions had become agitated, presumably unhappy with the turn of events, but they had taken on a contract, so their agitation was moot as far as the hirer was concerned.

Judging the distance, he quickly discounted any idea of reaching the shuttle, which would undoubtedly result in his death, so that was out. He pondered the idea of shooting it down as it began to take off but doubted the phaser he had was anywhere near powerful enough unless he was extremely fortunate, and the Orions would no doubt fire on him the moment he tried, so again, disappointment and frustration flooded into his mind. He was about to leave, making use of the time his pursuers were busy to put some distance between them and him when he heard the Human shouting, curious, he turned back to see Doctor Lacén, the Settlements Director, and the Vulcan woman, T'Par retracing their steps to the shuttle!... T'Par was almost at the shuttle when she paused, then turned, David was certain she was looking directly at him but knew that was impossible given the distance, and his cover, but for the briefest moment, he thought she was looking right into his eyes before she turned and boarded the shuttle. A moment later it soared into the morning sky and disappeared from view.

At least now he had a reason to get back, Lacén and T'Par must be held accountable.

With little choice, he left the Lodge and entered the trees... Forty minutes later, he approached a stream... He had been intent on moving continually north, but now changed tack, he turned to check if he was leaving any visible signs of passing, satisfied only the most skilful tracker would be able to keep pace with him, then he took a dozen careful steps backwards, ensureing each footfall sat in the original, before leaping into the stream. He moved downstream for approximately seventy metres then climbed onto a rock outcrop. Inwardly, he knew he had done all he could to hide his sudden direction change, so he stood and turned East ..........

[David Tan]

The terrain on this heading was rocky with dense patches of woodland, elevation changes came one after the other, and he was beginning to regret his earlier decision, but none of that mattered as long as he found some means to contact the authorities 'before' he was either recaptured or more likely disposed of completely!

In some places hiding his tracks was impossible, the ground following the torrential rain days earlier still remained soft, leaving almost pristine footfalls a blind man could follow... Several times he was forced to climb into the low-hanging branches of a tree, then transfer precariously to its neighbour to not give away his heading. But deep down he knew it was only a matter of time before the Orion hunters realised his subterfuge and changed direction themselves .....

Eventually, he came upon an area of level ground, thankful for the rest as he rubbed the aches in his arms and thighs from all the climbing. He was walking through a copse of trees eating one of the strips of meat he had purloined the previous night when the ground beneath his feet gave way and he fell ..... The drop was approximately ten metres, but because he wasn't prepared he fell clumsily, hitting his head on a loosened boulder before feeling intense pain in his left leg. He tried in vain to relax his body and allow gravity to complete the drop, and a second later he hit the ground, hard.

He clenched his teeth as pain raced through him like fire, as he fought down the urge to scream... Lifting his head to look at his leg, just above the knee, a jagged branch protruded, he could see the other end resting on the ground where it had snapped off. Slowly, suffering waves of intense pain, he pulled himself into a sitting position, his back against the rough bark of a tree and examined his injury more closely... The branch had penetrated his thigh, possibly scraping against the femur before exiting at the front. Knowing he had to act quickly, he took off his jacket and ripped off a swathe of cloth before resting it next to his injured leg, he looked around and found a smaller piece of wood, which he placed in his mouth in readiness for the pain to come. Concern flooded through him in concert with the waves of pain as he irrationally considered the possible outcomes of what he was about to do.

Knowing that if the branch had severed or punctured a major artery, he would bleed to death in minutes, while not acting would certainly result in his death... He closed his eyes for a few seconds, then he grasped the wood piercing his leg as close to the wound as possible, he bit down on the piece in his mouth hard, then pulled the protruding branch towards him as fast as he could, the pain was so intense he hardly heard the shaft snapping as he fought not to pass out once again.

As his vision cleared he was silently thankful that there was no ominous outgushing of blood, but before he was safe there was one more task. He grasped the wood from the back of the wound and pulled it back and out of his leg. Again and again, waves of pain flooded over him as he threw the offending branch away. Quickly he took the cloth and wrapped it around his leg covering both wounds, he took the wood from his mouth and placed it on the cloth, then tied a knot as tight as he could. He paused for a moment then turned the wood around two full turns, effectively cutting off the blood supply to his leg, then, as he finally secured the knot, his mind could take the pain no longer and he lost consciousness!

~~~~~~~~~~

The sun was higher in the sky when he opened his eyes, the intense pain reminding him of his predicament... Not wanting to know, but realising he had to see the damage incurred, he looked down at his leg... Thankfully the tourniquet had done what it was designed for, at least for now. Slowly he untied the first knot and turned the branch back half a turn, realising that if he stemmed the blood flow completely would likely result in his losing his leg. As he released the tension a fraction at a time, until he could feel the blood rushing back into his injured leg, thankfully, it wasn't gushing from the front or back of the wound.

Unable to control his reaction, he leaned to one side vomiting the meal he had eaten hours earlier, but at least the pain, though still coming in agonising waves, was more manageable now.

Wiping his mouth on his sleeve, he looked left and right, finding something to use as a crutch, glad there was something nearby, he decided he would reset the tourniquet and try to eat some of the meat before risking standing, well aware of his blood loss, but from what he could see it hadn't been as copious as first thought, so eating something and getting fluids inside him would help recoup that loss in due course... Once done with food and drink, he used the tree he was resting against to help get him to his feet, taking several painful, hobbling steps to retrieve the long tapered branch he had chosen as a crutch. Again he almost lost consciousness but fought off nausea as he reached down and picked up the branch .....

Twice in the next three agonising hours, he was forced to replace the blood-soaked tourniquet and realised he could be losing more than he had first thought. He remembered something from his survival training while at the Academy and looked around for suitable material... For the life of him, he couldn't remember which were used, but finding numerous large leaves he crumpled one at a time and put them in his mouth to chew. When he had enough of the mush he sat against a tree and slowly released the binding around his leg. The moment he pulled the cloth away, blood began to flow, he packed the front of the wound and back with the pulp before quickly replacing the makeshift bandage, wondering if he wasn't now poisoning his own blood with whatever the leaves contained. But almost past caring, he pushed himself off the fallen tree and continued through the cloying forest ...

It had taken several hours to travel maybe two kilometres, his injured leg causing no end of issues. Resting in the shade of an outcrop he tried to work out exactly where he was, but without a tricorder or even a basic map, he could only guarantee he was in New Zealand, and truth be told, he couldn't rely on that one hundred percent.

Fighting back the urge to scream, he clambered to his feet and continued along the ridgeline, hopefully keeping the Lodge, and his two pursuers somewhere behind him. The one saving grace to this nightmare, if indeed there was one, was that the bleeding from his wounds had almost ceased, possibly due to clotting, or whatever medical benefits he was getting from the makeshift poultice. Unfortunately, it was doing nothing to alleviate the pain... He had climbed a substantial distance prior to his fall and was using the natural contours of his surroundings to begin moving back into what looked like a wide valley below. he was looking down a steep drop, approximately forty to fifty metres, under normal circumstances he could have easily traversed the slope on his backside, using his arms and legs to steady his descent, but now he knew that any slip, however insignificant, could cripple him.

Regardless, he had no choice but to try to get down...

He inched towards the edge, shuffling sideways until he was up against several thick roots from the surrounding trees. Testing one, then another, he was about to inch onto the slope when something caught his eye! ..... He froze, peering intently into the distance, wondering if he'd just seen a random reflection. He was already turning away when he saw it again: Possibly five hundred metres beneath him, and maybe ten kilometres away - A pinpoint of bright light set against a green on green background - There was no mistaking it, something, or someone, was down in the valley he had climbed out of that morning!

He watched for a full five minutes, seeing the reflection only once more, so either the item was no longer in line to reflect the sun's rays, or it had moved from the grasslands into a forested area.

"So, you're coming," he said to himself ..........

[David Tan]

There's no doubt now, I must find refuge and sanctuary before the Orion Hunters caught up with me... Knowing that Lacén and T'Par are working together, presumably hoping to benefit from whatever information the Yattho, Rallos, would have undoubtedly been forced to give up, had he not met an untimely death, they won't want me surfacing!

All this was running through his mind as he made his way east, though truth be told, any direction would be preferable to walking headlong into the Assassins .....

Realising he was getting weaker, a combination of malnutrition and recent blood loss was combining to stop him from making any significant headway... He had estimated he had put a good ten kilometres between before his accident, that distance would be eaten up much too quickly for his liking, so fighting through the increasing waves of pain, he continued to move down from the wooded hillsides, and hopefully into a flat valley. Again, the most worrisome issue there would be cover, or the lack thereof. Every ten or fifteen minutes he would find a clearing that allowed him a view of the terrain below and ahead and the open areas of grassland.

Each hour he tried to find some high ground so he could check for signs of his pursuers, but after the first signs in the valley, they had never revealed their location to him again, so they could be kilometres away, or metres, if the latter he doubted he would know when the released him from his existence.

He found a stream, no more than a trickle of clear fresh, water, but it was enough to sate his thrust and refill his canteen. The meat he had acquired had now gone, so he was once more relying on finding fruit to sustain him. He knew to be careful, not to take the fruit before him but to reach into the branches, and then only take one at a time... Late in the afternoon realised he must rest, despite the danger of doing so, he was ill, feeling the effects of his injury, and on more than one occasion was sure he was going to deny the Hunters of their prize by falling to his death somewhere.

He was moving approaching one of the small open areas free of trees when he began to wonder if his mind was beginning to play tricks with him because almost implausibly, he was convinced he could smell coffee!

Moving cautiously, he saw a small wooden cabin through the trees. There was smoke coming from what looked like an old steel chimney and there was light inside. So he had to make a decision: Knock on the door and 'hope' the Orions didn't answer, or skirt around the cabin and continue on until the light failed. Maybe it was the aroma of fresh coffee that made his mind up for him. He began to cross the small grassed area, tripping on something, he glanced down but couldn't see what it was so  assumed it was a tree root. Halfway to the cabin he noticed a second building, partly hidden by the trees, it was more like an old, single-storey barn.

Turning back to the cabin he listened intently at the door for a moment then tapped .....

The door opened almost instantaneously, flooding the porch with light, which caught the highly polished barrels of the shotgun the man was pointing directly at Tan's stomach... For a second the elderly man looked at him, then glanced over David's shoulder looking left and right before returning his attention to his unexpected visitor:

"I'm sorry, but could you help me?" David asked, exhaustion welling within every fibre. The man looked at the blood-soaked tourniquet and then inched back into the cabin, urging David forward with the slightest wave of the barrels.

"Come in ..... Sit down there next to the fire..." the man instructed, placing the gun into an open rack holding several weapons, all well out of reach of his visitor, before heading into the next room, returning a moment later with a bowl and towels, David was already laying back, "... If you don't mind my asking: How do you come to be outside my door?" he asked, taking an extremely sharp knife to cut away the old bandage and trouser leg. He nodded almost appreciatively at the wound, then dabbing a towel into the hot water he began cleaning away the dried and clotted blood.

"It's a long story..." David said, wincing at the pain as the old man tended to his injury, "Is that, fresh coffee?"

"It is, but let me tend to this before you bleed to death. You have a name?"

"Tan... David Tan,"

"Arthur McKinnon... You can call me 'Mister' McKinnon!" he said, sounding to Tan every inch the tyranical Headmaster.

"..... Where am I?"

"You don't know?" McKinnon asked, taking a second towel to continue cleaning David's wounds, the first one already soaked.

"..... New Zealand?"

"Yes ..... You're about twenty-five kilometres east of Lake Taupo, well inside the Pureora Forest Park, near the old timber trails, not too far from a place called Maramataha Bridge... Is there any reason why you wouldn't know where you are, or what you were doing wandering around half dead?" McKinnon asked. Shrugging when he received no reply, he took several bandages from a first aid kit, "... This is going to hurt, a lot, but not as much as the original injury I imagine," he said, pouring antiseptic over both sides of the wound before applying the clean fresh bandages.

"Thank you..." David said as the man cleared away the bowl, returning with the promised mug of steaming hot coffee, "... Do you have any communications equipment here?"

"I might be out in the back of beyond Mister, but I'm no caveman..." McKinnon replied, seemingly hurt by the unspoken accusation, "... But as it happens... No... I don't,"

"Then how do you contact anyone?"

"There's a reason I'm out here... It's because I happen to prefer the solitude, the fresh air, the lake, the wildlife. None of which you can have in the city ..... Now, as to communicating, there's a Forestry Monitoring Station a few kilometres northish, if I need anything urgently I'll wander over there and make a call, otherwise, I pretty much fend for myself, thank you very much!" McKinnon snapped clearly agitated. Disappointed, David began to clamber shakily to his feet, before falling back as pain lanced through him from head to toe. McKinnon sniffed unsympathetically, then went into the kitchen. David could hear pots and pans clattering until his host returned, he pulled Tan into a seated position then handed him a plate of hot food.

"You live here alone?" David asked, trying to help his host feel at ease as he tucked into the exceptional fare.

"Just me and Casandra," McKinnon replied.

"Your Wife?" David asked innocently.

"MY HORSE...!" McKinnon said, clearly hurt by the idea he had a woman up here ..... He fell silent for a moment, watching Tan closely, "...Are you in some sort of trouble?" he asked, eyes narrowing as he glanced towards the gun cabinet. He needn't have been concerned Tan thought, yes McKinnon looked somewhere in his late nineties, but he was sure he could outrun and outright his visitor if the need arose. They ate in silence, once finished, McKinnon took his empty plate away. He came back into the room and went to a cabinet to pour two glasses of whiskey, he handed one to David before throwing several logs on the real fire. With both glasses empty they were refilled, the two spoke well into the late evening, McKinnon not pushing his visitor for information, Tan in turn realising that the alcohol and the warmth of the cabin were making him realise how dog-tired he was, and he soon found himself drifting off.

"There's a spare room, you can take that and we'll look at finding a way to help you out tomorrow," McKinnon said, taking his empty glass. He walked to the door and tapped a panel David hadn't seen, a small red indicator began to blink.

"Alarm?" Tan asked.

"Force field projectors, they surround the cabin just inside the treeline..." McKinnon explained, sliding a bar across until there were five lights, "... There are some things, even in New Zealand, that you wouldn't want coming in uninvited,"

"You can say that again," David muttered almost inaudible as he was led along a corridor to a bed. Despite his concerns about the Orions, he was out cold before his head hit the pillow ..........

[David Tan]

Day Five ::

He woke the next morning to the sun shining through the shuttered window of the bedroom, and the smell of cooking ..... Tentatively he touched the bandages, fresh last night, relieved to see that there had been no further blood loss during the night. He climbed out of bed and made his way into the living area, McKinnon was setting plates on the table:

"Good morning," McKinnon said.

"Morning,"

"There's a shower out the back there. I've left a fresh shirt and jeans, they're my brothers, but should fit you, don't worry about the bandage, I've got a fresh one ready. Breakfast should be ready by the time you're done,"

"Thank you," David said, heading down the corridor to the bathroom. He pulled off the blood-soaked shirt and trousers, now missing one leg after his host had cut it off to get at his injuries, then turned on the shower... The water was hot, almost too hot but he didn't mind as he allowed the water to soothe the aches and pains of the last few days ..... Dressed, he returned to the living area, McKinnon pointed to a chair, and David watched as the man began doling out enough food to feed half a dozen people: A steak that covered most of the plate, two eggs, beans, mushrooms. David couldn't believe he'd emptied his plate.

Once they had eaten, McKinnon helped replace the dressing, checking the front and back of the wound for any signs of oncoming infection. Afterwards, David took it upon himself to wash the plates, utensils and pans and when he went back he could see McKinnon looking at a small screen built into the wall beside the front door... Curious, he walked over.

"Pings..." the man said, pointing at the numerous 'dots' along each side of a green square, presumably representing the forcefields he'd been told about the previous night. He tapped the display and it changed to show a green rectangle with 'North' above. On the display were blue or red dots, he explained, the blues were smaller animals, while reds indicated larger ones.

"Those towards the bottom: bats, kiwi or weka, flightless birds, bloody pains in the butt. Some reptiles, maybe frogs, sometimes they hit the field as they pass underneath, it doesn't extend right to the ground to supposedly allow free movement. The ones higher up are possibly Himalayan tahr, a mad-looking goat you don't want to get on the wrong side of, or even fallow or sambar deer. That's what you had for breakfast, by the way, none of that replicated garbage out here!" McKinnon said, clearly appreciative of what the wild provided. David though was pondering the idea that he'd eaten actual 'meat' .....

"Those higher up pings," he asked as McKinnon cycled through the four sides, "... You can't identify exactly what each was?" he asked, trying to make the query as casual as possible.

"No ..... No need, if something hits the forcefield at the two metres or more height, it's hardly going to be anything but a deer ..... Why?" he asked, turning to Tan.

"Curiosity, I was wondering how you got your fresh supplies, I didn't see any trails, and certainly no vehicles,"

"I shoot a deer each time I come up here, so two, maybe three a year. They're protected, but under the 'Māori indigenous peoples' accord, natives can take what they need, within reason obviously. Eggs, I have a few hundred chickens, the rest, well pretty much everything is available if you know where to look, and what to help yourself to..." McKinnon said, falling silent for a moment as he looked at the west side forcefield, "... Hmm ....."

"Problem?"

"No, it just looks like a deer took several goes at the fence there. Usually they have learned that they can leap the forcefield, but every now and then there's one that isn't too clued-up, usually a new Buck, no doubt in search of its first conquest.Sso it hits the forcefield, steps back, then has a run at it again, then again ..... Oh they get the idea after the third, fourth or maybe the fifth try. You just can't keep a buck from his ladies," he said with a wink, satisfied. As he walked away David, couldn't help but look at the five red pings in close proximity before he followed McKinnon through the kitchen and out to the back of the cabin. They crossed to what David had assumed was a barn the night before, four horses, each looking exceptional well groomed, were waiting, acknowledging their owners' arrival with ney's of hello.

"We'll take Cassandra and, hmm, Hector I think,"

"If you don't mind my asking: What happens to the horses while you're not here, you said you came up two or three times a year?"

"Yes ..... There is a Māori Family living several kilometres from here, they come and look after the day to day things, keep the grass cut, the forcefield active, the house in good repair, their children feed the horses and take them out every couple of days,"

"How far to the Ranger Outpost?" David asked.

"Five, six hours, depending on how cooperative these two are..." he said, feeding an apple to Cassandra and then one to Hector before picking out two saddles:

"Have you ridden before?" he asked. Tan had a flashback to his seventh birthday, where part of the surprise was horses the children could ride ..... David, never really sure about their intent, disliking liking the way they looked at him, was lifted aboard, to be promptly thrown over the animal's head. The audible 'snaping' of both the radius and ulna in his left arm seemed to amuse the horse no end. It also cemented Tan's decision never to get within arms reach of one again, at least not without a phaser!

"No ....." he said, suddenly embarrassed.

"Well Hector there is a calm old Gent, he's so laid-back you could fall asleep on him easily, he'll look after you," McKinnon said, saddling the horses ..... Once they were ready, McKinnon led the horses around the front of the cabin, he climbed aboard Cassandra. David had been watching his mount, Hector, who seemed uncannily noncommittal regarding David's prospects of staying aboard, if and when he actually got on that was.

"Whenever you're ready lad, He won't bite," McKinnon said with a wry grin as he actually winked - At the horse.

With no other means of transport available, David bit the proverbial bullet and climbed aboard the stallion. Shifting back and forth until he felt safe, grinning McKinnon nudged Cassandra forward, unbidden, Hector followed obediently ..........

[David Tan]

As they passed from the grassed area in front of the cabin and into the trees, McKinnon gave a verbal command to raise the forcefield around his property .....

David looked back, but for the life of him couldn't identify a single location of the 'field emitters, not that it mattered of course ..... McKinnon, leading, he began a conversation as the two meandered along the barely visible trail. They had been riding for almost two hours when they stopped, both dismounting. Allowing the horses time to rest, he and his host continued to talk, Tan realised quickly that he wasn't being questioned on his situation, which he was silently thankful for as he didn't want to put the man helping him in anymore jeopardy than necessary. After sandwiches, which McKinnon had prepared before he had woke, they climbed aboard the horses, both enjoying the morning sunlight as it warned the air around them.

"In about an hour, we'll take the ridge track. It runs around the rim of a natural depression ..." McKinnon informed him, glancing back to speak, obviously content that the horse knew which way to go, "... It adds an hour to our trip, but its a lot easier on the horses,"

"OK," David replied as McKinnon's horse suddenly spooked, making Tan's horse stop short.

"Whoa ....." McKinnon said soothingly, expertly easing his horse back towards David before reaching over to grasp Hector's reins. For a moment he stared into the woods, trying to spot what might have caused the horses' unease. David, having no clue as to how he should react, remained motionless ..... Holding a finger to his lips, McKinnon handed both sets of reins to David then lowered himself to the ground.

"Whoa, girl ..... Eeeesy ....." he said, patting Casandra on the neck before taking a few steps towards the trees. He reached behind him, pulling an impressively long knife from its scabbard, eyes seemingly locked on the closest of the trees. Despite all his efforts, David couldn't see a thing as the trees swayed almost hypnotically in the light breeze, but he found he was released when McKinnon replaced the imposing knife and returned. Without a word he climbed back aboard his horse and took the reins back before nudging his mount forward. Behind, Hector again fell into step a metre back.

They had gone roughly two hundred metres when David felt he could ask about what had happened.

"It's unusual for Casandra to get spooked, she's like Hector, relaxed, nothing usually gets to her..." he said, patting the horse a few times, "... I watched her stand up to a mountain lion once. From her demeanour, you would have thought she was expecting the cat to leap at her, because it had no sooner left the ground when she rose onto her hind legs and brought both forelegs down. The lion was dead before it hit the ground. You know, she stood over that animal for a moment, then almost sadly turned her back, as if she'd regretted what she had been forced to do... It was a sight to see, that's for sure,"

"Do you think there could be another lion?"

"Possibly..." McKinnon said noncommittally, "... Let's keep moving, if it is a lion we'll know before too long, they're known for thrit patience, but if she's hungry, or has cubs to feed ....." he shrugged.

For a while, as they continued on, David kept glancing over his shoulder as he struggled with either keeping his true situation from his host or telling him everything. Either way, it would undoubtedly put McKinnon in danger. The Orions wouldn't think twice about killing him to get at their target, one dead, or two, it made no difference to them!

They had been enjoying the shade afforded by the high tree canopy but suddenly broke out into bright sunshine, as they turned right to follow the ridge of the depression, the ground had at some time in the distant past sank to leave the semicircular 'bowl' they were now on the edge of, the depression was wide, approximately two kilometres across, as if some cosmic giant had rested a knee on the Earth before moving on. He couldn't help but inch to his right in the saddle, away from the one kilometre-plus drop a mere metre from the horses' hooves, they though didn't seem to mind the prospect of imminent death should the ground give way beneath them.

"Don't worry yourself..." McKinnon said without looking back, "... These two have made this little trip hundreds of times, and not fallen once," he finished with a chuckle, obviously enjoying David's nervousness.

"How far round do we go?"

"We'll stick to the ridge for around a kilometre, if you look across the rim you'll see a small dip in the crest, we go back into the trees just before that, we'll get to the Ranger Station about thirty minutes after that,"

The remainder of the meander around the bowl went in silence, McKinnon with his own thoughts, while David couldn't help be impressed with the view. He realised he had never actually visited New Zealand for recreation, and silently resolved to come back to enjoy what was some of the most spectacular scenery he had seen. He was still appreciating the view when McKinnon suddenly stooped and climbed off his horse.

This time, he threw the rein loosely over a branch, and without a word stepped into the treeline, after a moment he called out for David ..... Dismounting, he put his reins over a branch and walked into the shade. About ten metres in, McKinnon was stood in silence, and as he approached the man he realised why - Facedown, was the body of an elderly man. McKinnon knelt, placing two fingers above the carotid artery before turning the body over.

"You knew him?" David asked, eyes flitting left and right as if trying to see right through the surrounding trees.

"His name is, was, Hunu ..... It's his family that looks after my property and the horses when I'm in the city or off-world..." Even from where he was standing, David could see that the man had suffered a beating before finally giving up his life, but he didn't voice his observations as McKinnon continued, "... Their home is about a kilometre further into the woodland. I'm sorry, there will be a dely in getting to the Station, I must get his body home to his family," McKinnon said, walking away, returning with a tarpaulin.

Without objecting, David helped cover the body and carry it back to the horses, they put the body over Casandra, and McKinnon climbed up to hold onto his friend.

Without another word spoken between them, they took the trail out to a small homestead, finally coming to a stop. David watched as McKinnon took the body and carried it towards the door, which opened while he was still a short distance away, and Tan could see the elderly woman nodding almost resignedly as they went inside ..... As he waited, three children appeared from the woods, two boys maybe twelve or thirteen, and a girl maybe eight or nine ..... They looked at him as they passed, the girl saying "Kia ora," what he assumed was 'hello' in her native tongue, before they too entered their house.

Fifteen minutes passed before McKinnon and the two boys came out. He motioned for Tan to follow, and they walked around the back to a small plot of land. David could see five makeshift headstones, each no more than a sturdy plank protruding from the ground. He was handed a shovel and told they would help bury the body... Twice as the four took it in turn to dig the grave, he saw McKinnon looking at him, and knew he would have to explain that 'he' was the reason this man had lost his life ..... Seathing, he silently vowed that the Orions would pay, pay with every drop of their heartless green blood, for taking this father from his wife and children! ..........

[David Tan]

As the two sons returned to the house to console their mother and sister, McKinnon motioned for Tan to follow him to the edge of the treeline .....

"I think now would be a good time, don't you?" the man said, waiting.

Over the next ten minutes, David explained as best he could the circumstances of his being in New Zealand. McKinnon, to his credit, remained silent, neither condemning nor condoning the actions which ultimately resulted in his friends' death. David could only explain that he had been brought here against his will, and had been forced, by means of numerous Vulcan mind-melds, to take on the identity of Colonel Paul Barrett, a disgraced former Marine, who had taken it upon himself to ignore direct orders, resulting in a substantial loss of life. His subsequent Court Martial and incarceration gave T'Par the opportunity she had been looking for to get at the Yattho.

"..... And this Barrett?"

"I can only assume that he was killed so I could take his place,"

"You said there are at least two Orion Assassins coming after you, so it was them that killed Hunu?"

"It had to be..." David said, frowning, "... What I can't understand is why they thought killing a complete stranger was necessary, other than for it to be a warning that they were close, again not something they usually did. They know where I am, presumably knew I'd been injured, and even if they took their sweet time coming after me, they would have succeeded well before I could raise the alarm. All they needed to do was be patient, then kill me whenever they chose,"

McKinnon got up, walking a few paces away.

"I'm sorry for the loss of your friend," David said sincerely.

"These 'Assassins' ..... Someone must have hired them?"

"It has to be the Vulcan I told you about, a woman named T'Par..." David said, determined to answer any and all questions put to him, "... She's working with the Director of the Federation Settlement. They wanted information from a smuggler, Rallos, presumably hoping to find the location of whatever he had stashed away. But as I told you, he slipped and died before I, or they, they could get what they wanted. I buried him and marked the grave for retrieval,"

"Do you think there's any chance the Assassins could believe you got the information before your friend died, ensuring they don't kill you before this Vulcan woman can get at your mind?"

"No... If they are coming after me, it's with orders to make sure I disappear without a trace," David answered.

"Then that can't happen!" McKinnon said, striding towards the house, Tan a few metres behind him.

"There's nothing you can do,"

"We'll leave the horses here and make for the Ranger Station on foot. If we need to dispose of our Orion Assassins en route, then so be it!" he finished talking as he entered the house, David, out of respect, and some guilt stayed outside ..... Moments later McKinnon came out. He was carrying a 'type three' phaser rifle. He placed the weapon down beside a small rucksack and then headed back to the house where the sons were watching from the porch. Whatever he said to the boys David would never know, but once done, the boys nodded while he returned to retrieve the rucksack and rifle, David suddenly realised the old man meant to come with him.

"McKinnon ..... Wait ..... This isn't your fight..." Tan said, grasping  the man's shoulder as he began to stride past him, "... Give me directions to the Station, I'll go on from here alone,"

"We both know that you will never find that station alone, especially on foot, you could walk past it and never know ..... I know this area like the back of my hand, we'll take the old Mauri trails down into the valley then back up the other side, we'll also have help to hopefully ensure the Orions can't keep track of us..." he turned, nodding to the two boys who were already heading into the treeline, "... They will lay false trails, dead ends, backtrack, it should at least slow the Orions down. They don't hold any ill-will towards you David, and are willing to help; So what's it to be?" McKinnon asked ..........