MISSION 3.6 - A Question of Determination Pt 2

[mercy]

After Laurana confirmed that she would be on her way to SBA, Stuart left T'Val to ready himself for the formal function. Reaching his quarters, soon to be old quarters, he showered, shaved, and put on his nicely pressed dress uniform. He actually liked wearing his dress. It wasn't often where he could look so dapper and dashing as he did in this uniform, or at least he thought he did. He knew T'Val would like it, that was all that mattered to him now.

Once dressed, Stuart headed back to T'Val's to pick her up. She had dressed herself in a nice chestnut colored dress that Stuart knew was going to be a head-turner. Together they arrived at the Fishtank where most everyone had already gathered.

After getting a couple of drinks, T'Val spilled hers after she had been bumped by a huge bird-like species with wings and all. Stuart could do all he could to not blatantly stare at what he would deem a specimen. He had heard of the Skorr species, but this was his first encounter with one. Stuart looked on as T'Val posed her question, awaiting a response from the one called Kahlena.

<Kahlena>

From off in the distance, Stuart could see what he recognized to be Captain Voran of the Galaxy as he strode into the Fishtank with his entourage. The Capatin saw Stuart and T'Val as well and headed directly to them, while the rest of his staff slowly peeled off, one by one, to get drinks and mingle with the others. Soon the Captain reached them and said his greeting. "Ah, Doctors, how are you tonight? I believe you know my senior staff?" He waved behind himself, only then realizing that he had been left alone.

Stuart could only chuckle when he reached out his hand. "Captain, it's good seeing you again. Of course you remember Healer T'Val here, and this is Officer Kahlena, Counselor onboard the USS Tigershark."

<Voran, Kahlena, T'Val>

[Magellan Lin]

Vebn smiled smugly as he walked away from Tedak. He was unconcerned by Tedaks rants, the man was a hothead and made dubious decisions. Vebn was cold and calculating, perhaps too cold.

Koroth sneered as Vebn approached but managed to reign in his dislike of Romulans,
"Qaplah Ambassador" He grunted,
"Jolan tru Ambassador" Vebn replied with equal disdain. Kaskrene just chittered, the unversal translator deciding that it was nonsense didnt translate.

"This is an adequate reception" Vebn noted taking a sip of his thick drink, he had developed a taste for Kanar whilst on Cardassia Prime.

"It would be better with roasted targ and gagh" Koroth grumbled,

Vebn merely nodded avoiding the nausea that the thought of live gagh gave him.

"So Kaskrene I m surprised the Assembly has a diplomatic station on this backwater."

Kaskrenes forearms worked frantically,

...It is beneficial to us... he said

"Besides Romulus is even farther than Tholia, one might ask what you are doing here" Koroth snapped, "Only the Klingon Empire is near this region of space."

"We Romulas must always keep an eye on our neighbours lest one trips and falls and we can... help them up." Vebn answered smoothly, "That and my predecessor entered the Star Empire into a finanical agreement with the Federation to terraform this planet, and I intend to find out how we benefit from it."

Vebn broke off as another Vulcanoid approached,

....this is Elder Ji'Zhan of teh Debrune... Kaskrene said in such a way that Vebn wasnt sure if it was an introduction or a statement of fact.

"Elder" Vebn greeted with a half bow, "I m a pleased to meet you. I look forward to increasing the common ground between our peoples"

Koroth scowled and then smiled as he noticed his empty glass, without a farewell he headed for the bar, this was going to be a long night.

"Ambassador I understand you replace Tedak?" Ji'Zhan asked,

"Yes. He has been found... lacking and so I have been tasked with providing diplomatic support to this station. I m called Vebn S'khellian, perhaps you have heard of me?"

TAG Ji'Zhan

[Deleted]

Saarok remained on the side observing the conflict between Tedak and Vebn s'Khellian. Saarok found that observing how one treats his opponents can allow one a lot of insight in that persons personality. And from what Saarok observed s'Khellian did not find the conflictions with Tedak something he would be worried about, he almost found the amusing. After Tedak left, with the intervention from Loskene, Saarok thought it best to join the Ambassador and introduce himself.

"Ambassador Vebn s'Khellian", Saarok said replying to the question Vebn posed to Elder Ji'zhan as he was approaching

"The most trusted diplomat of the Romulan praetor himself. The man for whom rumors say one day may even become the praetor himself. But of course... we are not people who deal in rumors, are we Ambassadors", Saarok said as he joined the group

<Tag Vebn/Ji'zhan>

[Felix Savali]

Felix was in his private quarters getting dressed for the reception. The nanny for his daughter was already there and he already gave Amilea a kiss goodbye. After he got dressed he still needed to pick up Joann, Major Horakar and Judge Rasmussen. Apparently they found it logical for all JAG, and related, staff arrive together. SO after he got dressed he just managed to say bye to the nanny and Amilea as he was already late.

--At the reception--

Once they reached the reception, judge Rasmussen saw Drolem Simeth and went on to tell him his mind about the recent attack on another candidate in the mayoral elections and Major Horakar noticed that the bar was stacked with some non replicated alcoholic drinks and decided to try them all. After everyone departed, Joann and Felix were left alone.

"So, here are those drinks I promised.", he smiled, "What will you have?", he asked

"Any cocktail will do", Joann replied as Felix went over to the bowl and poured two glasses, one for Joann one for him

"Here you go"; he said as he gave her the glass

"So how are you settling in on your new job"; he asked

"Oh, you know. The last person who had the office was a man so I’m still sorting out his mess", she said and smiled

"I see the tongue is still well trained", he said as he smiled

"Takes one to know one", she replied, "So, has that JAG investigation into who is responsible for the murders over?"; she asked

"Not by far", Felix replied, "We are just going about it more covertly now. The snake has been rattled now all we do is sit and watched who makes a slip and then drop the sack on them", he said

"Well, sounds like you know what you're doing", she said

"As if there was a time I didn't know what I was doing", he said

"Well don't get me started", she said as she winked at him

Felix turned mildly red after this last comment. Joann certainly knew how to hit one in the correct spot.

"Now, now, no need to be ashamed of it", she said, "Besides you know I believe you know what you're doing now.", she said, "Maybe you'll show me once", she winked again, "Now if you'll excuse me, I think I saw an old acquaintance from earth going to the bar just now, I have to go say hi", Joann said as she went towards the bar

[Deleted]

"Captain," T'Val acknowledged Voran with a slight smile, then nudged Stuart between the ribs. "Why would he not remember me? I was there when he was rescued from that nebula. One of his medics, a Bolian whose name I forgot even saved the lives of myself, Commander Reynolds and Lieutenant Hunter after our shuttle crashed."

She turned back to Voran. "How is life settling back into command of a ship captain?" she querried, making sure to stay away from Kahlena's wings. She didn't want her second drink to be knocked over too.

(Voran/Kahlena)

T'Val hadn't missed that her ex-husband was being escorted out of the room by Loskene, and knew instantly that something was very wrong. She silently sent Yade to check in on the Romulan diplomat, to see whether he'd be all right. Then she looked up at her fiancé. "I believe it is time to introduce ourselves to this new Romulan diplomat," she said coldly, not at all looking forward to doing that. However since the party was in his honour, it was a compulsary event she'd like to get over with as soon as possible.

Together, they walked up to the Romulan, who was talking to Saarok and Ezdreiana. "Ambassador," T'Val cut in, "normally I would say it is a pleasure to meet you, however the circumstances upon which you came to this office do not permit me to offer you that pleasantry. However, I do hope you will do your best to fulfill your tasks while holding that office, and pursue peaceful relations with the Debrune people."

She didn't offer him her hand, nor a traditional salute when she introduced herself. "I am Healer T'Val, and my companion is Commander Stuart Mercy, Assaillant's chief medical officer."

(Vebn)

[Ji' Zhan]

....this is Elder Ji'Zhan of the Debrune... Kaskrene said in such a way that Vebn wasn't sure if it was an introduction or a statement of fact.

"Elder" Vebn greeted with a half bow, "I m a pleased to meet you. I look forward to increasing the common ground between our peoples"

Koroth scowled and then smiled as he noticed his empty glass, without a farewell he headed for the bar, this was going to be a long night.

"Ambassador I understand you replace Tedak?" Ji'Zhan asked,

"Yes. He has been found... lacking and so I have been tasked with providing diplomatic support to this station. I m called Vebn S'khellian, perhaps you have heard of me?"

Ji'Zhan knew that this replacement could only mean that the Romulan High Command was trying to enter in to an area where they were not needed nor welcomed. However, Ji'Zhan really didn't expect anything different from what was technically his brethren.

Replying to Vebn, "No, I'm sorry Ambassador S'khellian, I'm afraid that I have not heard of you. Never mind that, I'm glad to meet you know and I'm glad to hear that you seek neutral ground between our peoples. "

Just then Ambassador Saarok joined the group saying something about rumors. Turning to address Saarok, Ji'Zhan said, "There have been several events in the past year that were simply based on rumors Ambassador; shame really."

Turning back towards the Romulan Ambassador, "Ambassador S'khellian, Ambassador Tedak and I have work many long hours towards the relations between our people, I must say that you and your Government's intentions behind this sudden restructure does concern me to say the least. I speak for all the Debrune Elder's when I say, based on the most resent events we are going to be very selective as to how, lets just say, we admeasure resources under our control."

<tag Ambassadors>

[Magellan Lin]

"That is to be expected Elder, we each have our own peoples best interests at heart. But Tedak entered us into a costly investment of Qualinost before your return to the galactic arena, and it seems to me that that investment has been forgotton. The ferengi have mining rights for their investment, but us... what?. That is something myself and Ambassador Saarok will debate at length I m sure."

Together, they walked up to the Romulan, who was talking to Saarok and Ezdreiana. "Ambassador," T'Val cut in, "normally I would say it is a pleasure to meet you, however the circumstances upon which you came to this office do not permit me to offer you that pleasantry. However, I do hope you will do your best to fulfill your tasks while holding that office, and pursue peaceful relations with the Debrune people."
T'Val didn't offer him her hand, nor a traditional salute when she introduced herself. "I am Healer T'Val, and my companion is Commander Stuart Mercy, Assaillant's chief medical officer."

"A pleasure I m sure" Vebn said with a broad smile and more than a glimmer in his eye, "I can see now why the Former Ambassador lowered his standards, perhaps it was more a case of you lowering yours" he chuckled at his own jest,

TAG T'Val and Mercy

[mercy]

"A pleasure I m sure" Vebn said with a broad smile and more than a glimmer in his eye, "I can see now why the Former Ambassador lowered his standards, perhaps it was more a case of you lowering yours" he chuckled at his own jest.

Stuart just about came unglued as the old human saying went. He took the two short paces it he needed to get in this Romulan's face. He didn't care for the bodyguards who most likely had their hands on a pistol or any other weapon of the sort.

"Now you look here, MISTER! I don't care what your beef is with Ambassador Tedak, but this lady here is my future wife that you are talking about. I suggest that you refrain from such remarks before I forget my Hippocratic Oath and toss being a doctor out the window. Being an executioner might not be such a bad idea when it comes to the likes of you!"

All Stuart could do was to continue to stare him down. He hadn't even noticed the silence that befell the immediate area as everyone was observing and awaiting Vebn's response.

"Quite a temper you have their..." he paused and looked at Mercy's collar "...Commander, might I suggest that if you attend diplomatic functions in the future you learn to be more...ah...diplomatic. Your sensitivity while appreciated by us would be lost on your emotionless fiancee"

Stuart's eyes became smaller at the remark while clenching his teeth. Immediately he knew that he would have more disdain for this Romulan than he had ever had for anyone else in his life. Stuart turned to face T'Val, he knew his career would be on the line if he went on. "T'Val, I need some air as it's gotten real foul smelling in here all of a sudden. You're welcome to stay."

Without awaiting her response, he gave her a quick kiss and turned towrads the exit. Halfway reaching the doors, he decided to turn on a dime heading back to the new Ambassador. Stuart still had a half empty glass in his hands. Once he got close enough, Stuart went ahead and emptied the other half...all over Vebn who was now wiping away at his wet face. Stuart turned back to the exit and promptly left.

[Deleted]

Stuart had marched off before T'Val could reply; she stood rooted to the spot, staring after him in utter surprise. She'd seen him angry before, but she'd never seen him this mad. T'Val found it mildly flattering that he stood up for her, but wondered if his action had been the smartest of actions.

Then she glared at the new Romulan diplomat. "Kindly keep your insinuations to yourself ambassador, for I do not appreciate your compliments, nor your insults."

However before she could march out after her fiancé, he came back and tossed the remainder of his drink in Vebn's face. T'Val stiffled a laugh, then glanced down at her own drink, pondering whether to follow suit. Instead, she set her drink down on the nearest table, and followed Stuart out the room. Once outside she pulled him back by his sleeve. "I am not certain whether that was the smartest of moves Stuart," she told him candidly, "I do not trust him, nor do I feel he is trustworthy. There is more to him than he is letting on. I feel we must be careful around him."

[mercy]

Stuart was still fuming under his collar, but did realize how he must have looked in there, confronting an ambassador in public like that. He was sorry how he must have looked infront of T'Val. "T'Val, I apollogize if I've caused you any embarassment. He just got me sooo mad when he said that about you."

T'Val took his cheeks into her hands and kissed him dearly after which she responded, "You did take a great risk with that confrontation, but the effort did not go unnoticed." They kissed again before leaving the area.

[Deleted]

"Ambassador I must apologize", Saarok said as he stepped forward. "The actions of these individuals in no way represent the stance of the United Federation of Planets towards your or your people. And I assure you they will be appropriately reprimanded for their actions"; Saarok said

Vebn fixed Saarok with an intent stare, "I m well aware of the Federations views on my people. It does not especially concern me. We have jobs to do, we are diplomats we know how to play the game, that young man is just a doctor, a deluded one maybe but I don't expect him to extoll the subtlties you no doubt do"

Felix was standing nearby as all this took place. Oh why, he thought, why can't we have a moment of peace on this base? He shook his head as he stepped forward to join the ambassadors.

"Ambassador s’Khellian", he said, "I am Captain Felix Savali, head of the office of the Judge Advocate General here on Assaillant."; he said introducing himself, "I regret that we have not met under better circumstances but I assure you that the actions of Commander Mercy in no way reflect the opinion of Starfleet of neither you, nor your people.", he said

"Someone new to apologise, how refreshing. You know many believe saying sorry belies a great weakness." Vebn said to Felix, "I m somewhat awed at the impact my arrival has made, no doubt the most interesting thing to happen around here in a very long time. Now I believe Elder Ji'Zhan and I were discussing Debrune policy?"


"That may be true Ambassador, but I am sure that recent events surrounding the Reman encounter straightened out the fact who is or is not weak.", Felix replied and smiled, "Now if you will excuse me Ambassador", Felix sad as he left the area

[Ji' Zhan]

"That is to be expected Elder, we each have our own peoples best interests at heart. But Tedak entered us into a costly investment of Qualinost before your return to the galactic arena, and it seems to me that that investment has been forgotten. The ferengi have mining rights for their investment, but us... what?. That is something myself and Ambassador Saarok will debate at length I m sure." Said Ambassador S'khellian.

Before Ji’Zhan could respond the whole event revolving around Mercy and T’Val. Ji’Zhan was amazed that the ancient texts of the Debrune was so correct about Romulan people and their uncanny ability to simply make everyone outraged... even after all this time. They seemed to be able to easily do that like breathing.

Ji’zhan spoke after Felix in an effort to continue his conversion with Ambassador S'khellian, “Ambassador, your words certainly render no effort towards being in harmony; in fact, discord seems to be your goal. Ambassador,” not giving any allusion of the next comment referring to Ambassador S'khellian’s previous words, simply continuing as if nothing happened, “The Ferengi have no such rights. After the terraforming project, that was only a success due to Debrunian reactor not monies from other governments, the re-colonization of the planet’s pact clearly states that the Debrune and Tekarans have joint control.” Knowing that this was true and looking for a reaction from the Ambassador, Ji’Zhan continued, “Still, if you must think that you have some comical idea that you have any type of birthright on the planet, I’m sure that all the Elders would be glad to sit down and discuss this lapse.”

As more and more people approached the group, it was becoming harder and harder for Ambassador S’khellian to respond to anyone, much less Ji’Zhan. Smiling, Ji’Zhan stepped back and allowed even more people to approach; all introducing themselves and saying a enduring welcome. Soon, Ji’Zhan was several… layers… back from the Ambassador and far enough away to turn and leave this pale reason for a reception.

Reaching his office on the star base, Ji’Zhan made the finial call for the activation of the Silasi first reserve; their status was now active and the whole planet was under Silasi surveillance. Ji’Zhan made a report to the rest of the Elders about the new Romulan change in structure also making known to them the Romulan claim. Not wasting any time, he had a copy of the Debrune and Tekaran re-colonization pact sent to both S’khellian and for good measure Saarok, too. He also copied Admiral Lin on all communication so he would be aware of what could become a new… problem… around the base. Ji’Zhan retired back to the planet’s surface and back to his home. A home that no longer looked like a class K planet... but a lush and inviting world with blue waters and clear, clean air.

[Deleted]

It was apparent to Vebn that Ji'Zahn had taken the debacle with the Doctor to make a discreet exit. Probably wise Vebn mused, this had hardly been the most cordial of evenings but then that had been his intention all along.

Vebn had discovered a long time ago that the best way to truly see people was through adversity, and so whereever possible he pushed hard to really see the person behind the facade, and tonight he had certainly done that.

The evening was taking more of a formal tone, Admiral Magellan and Ambassador Saarok made welcoming speeches and everyone clapped politely. With speeches over people began to split up again. Koroth was slumped at the bar and Kaskrene stood awkwardly in the corner, his forelimbs folded across his chitinous chest.
Vebn ghosted over,
"Ambassador, perhaps now would be good for our...chat"
...yes not here. elsewhere...
"Of course, after you"

Taking a last look at the party and Major Koroth slumped by the bar singing from some opera Vebn and Kaskrene departed.

[Magellan Lin]

Magellan found the whole evening a complete washout. There was little more boring than a night with diplomats.
Gethin however was in his element, Magellan allowed this host to come fore front, he was tired of fighting them and Gethin was a safe pair of hands.

He made small talk with the various diplomats, attaches and ambassadors. He watched rather disinterestedly at the removal of Tedak and then the display made by Dr Mercy. He realised however that come the morning he would have to have words with the Doctor and his behaviour. Something he did not relish, mainly because he was trying to avoid the doctor as much as possible.

At the close of the function Magellan checked quickly into Ops and his office before retiring to bed and sleep. He had only one message of note, something that gave him some glimmer of hope.

Tedak wished to stand for mayor, whilst this wasnt an ideal choice, he would certainly be better than Drolem and perhaps it was time to make a stand against the mayor.

He swiftly sent an acknowledgement and explained that Tedak was now a candidate and that campaigning began the next day. Signing off he glaldy led himself home.

[Deleted]

Tedak looked up when he heard his console beep, indicating a new message had arrived. Scanning the contents of the message, he couldn't hide his surprise at having been approved as candidate. The Romulan had been prepared to argue his way towards permission. ~that's unlike Magellan~ he mused as he picked up the toys his son had strewn about before being sent to bed.

When he too finally lay in bed, he crossed his arms behind his head and stared at the ceiling. "How to campaign for mayor," he pondered aloud, "the diplomatic way? I've never campaigned for anything like this before. I should compose a charter I suppose."

He fell asleep still pondering on how to go about it, as he had never expected to be granted the opportunity to present himself as mayor-elect.

The next morning he set to work straight off, working on his standpoints. As ambassador he'd been around the station and he was a well-known person. ~but not overly well-liked~ he thought and chuckled as he continued working. He only looked up when T'Shan came to pick up D'Beren, to take him to school.

A few hours later he finally had finished his charter. He wasn't too confident about how his points would be received. Out of experience, he knew many things had to be changed to make life on Assaillant better for those not part of Starfleet, or the Federation for that matter. After rereading his charter several times, he finally asked Lily to send it to the relevant people for distribution.

(resp anyone?)

[Deleted]

T'Val hooked her arm through Stuarts as they walked away from the Fishtank. Neither had any further business there as they left in a rather abrupt manner, and neither had any intentions of going back. The Vulcan didn't like the new ambassador and certainly didn't trust him and first impression had an annoying tendency to last.

Remembering he mentioned needing fresh air, she pulled him into the next corridor, catching him off guard as she did so. "I thought you said you wanted fresh air," she asked innocently, motioning towards the corridor that now lay ahead. "This corridor should lead to Assaillant's botanic gardens. I am certain a walk there would give you enough fresh air to last you through the evening."

She smiled as she pulled him along, sensing his initial reluctance. "Come on," she insisted, "you need to cool off. A walk in the gardens will help." Then she smiled mischieviously, a smile that only Tedak had ever seen before. "And we will have a little privacy, at this time the gardens are not busy."

[Felix Savali]

After moving away from the Romulan Ambassador, Felix made a mental note to try and minimize his contact with the man as much as possible. How dare he insinuate him being weak? After all had it not been for the federation the Romulan would most likely be a slave for the Remans. But I guess the lesser of two evils is always better, he thought as he made way to the bar to say good bye to Joann before he departed for his quarters for the evening.

--The next day--

Felix woke up in the morning several minutes before the computer started the wake up call, which was... odd to say the least. He usually never woke up early for anything and especially not on a normal day. But he attributed it to the increased stress levels with all the pressure surrounding the JAG investigation. After getting up and getting dressed he went over to Amilea who was also already up. After replicating some breakfast and attending to the usual morning routine, Amilea's nanny arrived to take her to daycare. After the two departed, Felix only remained to finish his coffee. After that was done, he left his quarters and headed for his office.

He ran into several people in the corridors including several angry looking humans, andorians, bajorans and klingons. Well so much for a quiet day, he thought as he made way past them and into the lift. After a longer ride he finally arrived at his office. Most of the staff was already there. He was greeted by Commander Sarkonis who had some news for him; apparently this morning the information arrived that former Ambassador Tedak was running for mayor and several, as they call themselves, "Defenders of the Federation and Starfleet", brought up a lawsuit in the civilian justice department questioning the legality of someone who does not come from a planet within the federation, running for mayor.

"So much for a quiet day", Felix said

"The pads are on the desk in your office", Sarkonis replied

"Thanks", Felix said as he made way past Sarkonis and into his office

"Just what i needed", Felix said a she saw the stack of pads on the desk

--Meanwhile somewhere on the promenade--

Jack Marshall was sitting in the coffee shop surrounded by his usual goons and was reading the morning edition of the stations news report. When he came to the part listing the candidates for the mayoral elections he spat out the coffee he was drinking from his mouth.

"What?!!!", he shouted causing everyone who heard him to look in his directions

"What's wrong", one of the women sitting at his table asked

"That idiotic Trill permitted some Romulan scum to run for mayor", he said in a somewhat calmer voice

"Relax Jack, not like anyone is gonna vote for him, Simeth has a pretty solid position", she said

"Yea, well some people think Simeth is a thief and a criminal, and that might just be everything that Romulan needs to win, I am sure that Trill will rig the elections so that this Tedak wins. He never liked Simeth", he said

"Calm down Jack, you know the Trill isn't dirty"; she replied

"Well I am not gonna take any chances, send the message to all friends... Arrange a protest this afternoon. We'll block out all the lifts leading to this level with chairs and tables and blockade all stores and business located here, especially those belonging to Romulan spies. We’ll let the people know what scum is running for mayor. Even if that’s the last thing I do, I'll let the people know what scum is running for mayor.", Jack finished

[Deleted]

After Ambassador Vebn departed the reception with the representative of the Tholian Assembly, Saarok also left the reception. There was no reason for him to remain after the guest of honor departed from the party. He signaled his guards who joined him and the group left.

--The next day--

After going through his usual morning routine, Saarok arrived at his office at 0900 hours, sharp. He was never late, nor early. When something was said to start at an exct hour, Saarok was the one who'd see to it that it does start exactly at that hour. After being read his appointments of the day by his assistant and receiving information about a pile of pads waiting for him, Saarok arrived at his office.

"Intriguing", Saarok exclaimed when he read the title of the pad which was on top of the pile

He picked up the pad and began to read its contents. It was not a long post as apparently the manifestos have yet to be announced. Not the most logical way to run an election. After he read the pad, he contacted his secretary and had her arrange an hour of free time for him around 1200 hours. After some discussion about people waiting for weeks to see him, she agreed to free up his schedule. After that was done, Saarok spent the following 3 hours receiving people who needed his services. Mostly it was a matter of arranging a permit for them to visit some planets which required special permission from the planetary government.

At 1200 hours, Saarok departed from his office accompanied as usual by his two guard and his bronze firelizard this time. The blue was hiding out somewhere, which was not a surprise as he often liked to play around. After a short trip on the turbolift, Saarok and his party finally arrived on the diplomatic quarter’s level. And after a n extra minute they finally arrived at their destination. Saarok chimed the bell next to the door and when the reply to enter came, he indicated to his guards to guard the door and not to let anyone in. After that was completed he entered Tedak's private quarters.

"Mr. Tedak", Saarok said as he entered, "I do not seem to see any posters saying Vote for Tedak, Tedak for Mayor", he said

"Not that it is logical at all to indulge in these elections, especially if you intend to reclaim your lost title of Romulan ambassador. I understand the praetor does not think kindly of Romulans who become Mayors of Federation Starbases. And also to the fact that... well the odds in the game are severely against you. Even tough, the people of the federation should be open minded... they still dislike Romulans.", Saarok said

[mercy]

They reached the gardens where one could actually smell the blooming of a variety of flowers. Of course Stuart would have no idea which smell would go to what flower. The only flower he cared for was the one that was attached to his arm.

"You were right to insist coming here. I was just so mad, I couldn't let him talk to you like that." Stuart looked up at what was supposed to resemble a night sky.

"It is quite alright. However, I am quite capable of handling verbal confrontation, but it was quite colorful to see the new ambassador adorned with red wine."

They both laughed at that thought. "I shall try to refrain from such outbursts. I'm sure Admiral Lin will have a few words for me. At least I'll get to observe him and his behavior some more."

Stuart turned to face T'Val for an embrace. They hugged and kissed for quite some time. Stuart could not wait to start packing and moving his belongings to their new quarters. They were engaged and now moving in, but he still had a burning question in his mind. He thought it best to leave it alone, he didn't push matters such as this when it came to a relationship, the woman would let one know.

"Come, it's getting late, let me take you home."

"Agreed. Soon we will not have to part ways like this..." She looked up at Stuart with a sheepish grin before she added, "Stuart...soon...if that answers your question...?" Her grin broadened and there was a glint in her eyes.

Stuart immediately understood, and forgot, that their close proximity during the height of their emotions allowed for them to sense what was in the other's mind. A huge smile came across his face as he escorted her home, all the while waiting anxiously to be moved in together.

[Deleted]

ooc: saarok, are you getting so old you don't remember the colours of your pets? Aeris was gold, and female

ic:

Tedak smiled at his old friend, and offered a greeting to his golden companion after she warbled a greeting at him and his two firelizards. "Posters?" he querried, "well that's a good idea and all, but I do prefer to run things my way."

He frowned at Saarok's comments about him running for mayor. "And why not?" he shot back, "I am well known on this station, and everyone knows what values I stand for. Besides, there's nothing much else for me to do than this. I can't return to the Empire, I am cast out of my profession and I can't very well apply to Starfleet now can I? Magellan will laugh at me in my face if I do. The Tal Shiar is also a taboo for me, after the way I retired, and besides, the current Tal Shiar chairman will kill me on the spot if I even so much as enter the building."

He shook his head. "No, I will do this my way. I intend to distribute these flyers. Perhaps you could assist me." He shoved a stack of paper in Saarok's hands. "There's a lot of people on SBA," he commented with a sly smile. "My charter is being broadcasted on the station's newscasts, and everyone has received a personal message from me."

[kahlena]

Kahlena wasn’t sure if she was kidding or not with the question.
“I am Kahlena, and I did miss my assignment. Something I am sure not to do again though. Didn’t know when this happened it was broadcasted around the station, I will have to remember that,” she said hoping that no one would think her serious. Someone came over and started talking, so she remained in the background and quite until Mercy introduced her.

“Good to meet you, captain,” Kahlena said and stuck out her hand trying to be polite. She then went back to being in the background not sure of these people. She thought of leaving, but decided to stay and watch the interaction. Kahlena noticed T’Val watching her wings, and she wished she could smile, just this once. She moved her wings a little to see how cautious the woman was being, and noticed T’Val was watching her wings as if they were something horrible. She carefully moved over to T’Val.

“Don’t worry, I won’t hit you again. I know better where they are and where you are,” Kahlena said whispering.

One minute Kahlena looked away focusing on something else, and the next she turned back to see that T’Val and Stuart had left. ~Darn it, I didn’t get to talk to him about what I needed to say. Well I guess there is always tomorrow for that little fun. Hopefully I won’t be lead around the base on another goose chase.~ She thought, and hoped things would work out. She left and returned to her temporary quarters hoping to get a handle on things better tomorrow.



Kahlena checked in with the hospital again, and this time Mercy was there. She walked over to him. “Sir, if we could talk in private,” she said.

(Mercy)

[mercy]

~ What an evening! Another Romulan I got on bad terms with, and again over the same woman. ~ Stuart chuckled at himself over that thought.

He currently found himself in one of the civilian wards where he was checking out a young Talaxian boy. He had a bite wound on his left hand, apparently from a new pet he had just acquired, a Tellarian lizard or something. He remembered reading a notice a few months ago about one of S47's vessels, the Jefferson he thought, going out to retrieve these newly found things for Starfleet to study, to see if they were safe for integration. Apparently not.

Stuart pulled out a dermal regenerator to heal the skin of the boy. The wound was slowly disappearing while his rightful skin tone was returning caused by the rapid regeneration of skin cells.

"There you go my boy, all better. Now give that creature some respect."

Stuart watch the boy leave the examining room heading for his parents who were in the waiting area. He quickly finished his note in the medical file and had it sent from his terminal to the one at the reception station where the attending nurse would read it and dole out the appropriate instructions to the parents before they left.

While putting away his equipment, the bird-like creature from last night had found him and approached. “Sir, if we could talk in private,” she said.

"It's Kahlena, right? Sure, what can I do for you?"

<Kahlena>

[evoran]

It hadn't been a great evening, but at least Voran and his command crew had got a little more entertainment than they'd been bargaining for. Doctor Mercy's display was certainly unexpected. But, more seriously, reading between the lines, Voran had been able to glean that this Romulan was one of the sort that always needed an eye keeping on them.

Now, he had to turn his thoughts back to the investigation at hand. He decided that a direct approach was the best one, so it was that he found himself outside Jolant's quarters.

"Come in."

Voran entered and saw Jolant sitting at the desk.

"Mr Jolant, I just came to check how you were getting on."

<Jolant>

"I'll come straight to the point. We know that you're not telling us everything, and, we're curious. We have some information, but perhaps you could fill in the gaps."

<Jolant>

"You were a glinn aboard the Cardassian vessel Vetar. The caretaker pulled you into the Delta Quadrant and you were separated from your crew. Then what happened?"

<Jolant>

[Deleted]

"I am merely offering the logical conclusion of these elections as you put them. I have some... experience in this field and therefore am amble to foresee the most probable outcome of said events.", Saarok said

"As for these papers", Saarok said pointing out the stack in his arm, "I will... assist you", he said

=/\=Saarok to Braktok, enter the quarters of Mr. Tedak=/\=

A few moments later the door to Tedak's quarters opened and Braktok entered with his phaser riffle at ready.

"There is no danger"; Saarok said, "I merely need you to arrange that these papers are distributed among the civilian population", Saarok said

"Of course", Braktok replied as he took the papers and left

"As I said, the papers will be distributed", Saarok said turning around to face Tedak

<Tag Tedak>

[Felix Savali]

--That afternoon--

Jack Marshall and his... associates, had been preparing the promenade for the protest the whole morning and at 1400 hundred hours exactly, his associates hailed all the turbolifts on the level at the same time and when the doors opened the used the tables and chairs to block the doors of the lifts, therefore disabling the lifts as while the doors were open, the lifts were inoperable. At exactly that time the rest of the associates were chasing people out of stores and restaurants on the promenade and convincing the owners to close down. The whole process was extremely coordinated and in 30 minutes the entire promenade was blockaded.

Once they were done, Jack gave the signal to one of his goons, who then contacted OPS and informed them of a situation developing on the promenade. Meanwhile, one of the sympathizers of the movement, who worked as an engineer on the station, triggered all the monitors around the base to display a live feed of what was happening on the promenade as Jack began the protest.

"Behold the truth", Jack began to speak as he, followed by a couple of hundred people started their march through the promenade.

"The Romulan scum that has been allowed to run for mayor was before now an Ambassador for the Romulan Empire and conveniently precisely in time for the elections he was replaced in that role. Does this not appear to be too convenient? Of course it does. Me and my friends have acquired information of the newest ploy of the Romulan Empire which is to take over the civilian parts of all Federations Starbases as a preparation for their takeover of our beloved federation. And our base was chosen for the test run. That is correct the Romulan scum has decided to start a silent war against the federation and by the time our leaders realize what is happening they will have taken over the entire civilian life within the federation.", Jack said

His speech was backed up by the cheering from the people following him and slowly several of the people who were only observing decided to join the protest.

"We don't want the Romulan scum to rule us, we do not want them here", Jack continued his speech which was followed by more cheers from the people gathered there...

--Meanwhile at the JAG office--

Felix was working on the report about the progress of the investigation when he was interrupted by Cmdr. Sarkonis.

"Sir, sorry to interrupt you but there is something you need to see", he said as he activated one of the monitors on the wall which displayed a live feed of the events on the promenade.

Felix observed the screen for a few moments before contacting Admiral Lin.

=/\=Savali to Admiral Lin=/\=

=/\=Admiral, do you see what is happening on the promenade?=/\=, Felix asked

<Tag Lin>