Captain's Log, stardate 2385.200. After starting a brief patrol of the Breen border, the Kent has been ordered to proceed to the Arentia system. This system is in space contested between the Breen and the Federation, and we are at constant risk of coming under attack... but the situation once we arrive will be no less dangerous.
Marian O'Rourke straightened her uniform one more time, preparing herself both physically and mentally for her first senior staff meeting as Commanding Officer of the Kent. Once she was certain of her readiness, she made her way from her quarters, to the turbolift. "Deck 1."
After her arrival on the command deck, she crossed the bridge to reach the observation lounge, early for the meeting she had called the full staff to attend.
Katell Danar turns as the Captain entered the observation lounge. The Cardassian had been there for hours, his mind wandering to deep dark places he would rather not admit.
"Captain. Pleasure to see you." The Glinn says, sounding somewhat sleepy. "My apologies. I have been restless as of late. " He drank another gulp of the strong raktijino he had brought with him and was constantly getting refilled. "Are we finally departing?"
The gray doors swept open effortlessly, allowing the fresh scent of the Sick Bay to engulf Lilly’s nostrils. Everything about this place was so new and fragrant, she only wanted to stand there and let the feel of the room wash over her.
She had anticipated an empty Sick Bay, but instead was greeted by a tall, dark-haired man who appeared to be in his late twenties. He introduced himself as Jeff Rogers, one of the medical officers.
"Glad to know you, Chief, welcome to SickBay ! Shall I give you the grand tour ?" He said jovially, waving his tricorder about the place.
"No, that won't be necessary, thank you, Mr. Rogers.?" Said Lilly.
"I have some diagnostics to run on the medical database, so I'll be in the back alcove for about an hour. If you need anything, just give me a holler, alright ?"
"Thank you, I'll do that. If I need you, that is." The CMO smiled, returning the gesture. She wandered about the bay, feeling her way around. She had been aboard the Insignia Class before, but somehow, this experience was unique. Maybe it was because this was now her Sick Bay. Her staff. Her responsibility. That prospect enlivened her. She felt a cool level of confidence rising in her heart. ~Home at last.~, she thought.
Just then, the Sick Bay doors swished open and yet another flash of blue and gray sashayed into view. This time, however, there were two women together. Upon seeing the rank pips on Lilly’s collar, they stopped and snapped to a standstill.
"Lt" They said in unison.
"At ease, at ease." Lilly replied. "And you are ?" She asked, referring to the blonde-haired, blue-eyed human female on the left. The pair relaxed their stances and beamed.
"Ensign Tabitha Gentry, Charge Nurse, Ma'am." Came her soft, yet confident reply. "Welcome aboard, Chief."
"Thank you, Ensign...and you?" Lilly responded kindly. The second woman was slightly taller than her counterpart, with a deep brown hair colour and a pair of deep amber eyes. She smiled as well.
"Ensign Glass, Elinor Glass, Chief. Welcome."
"Glass ? What an interesting name." Lilly mused. "Well, ladies,
what brings you to Sick Bay ?". Before Lilly could finish she heard the announcement
“All Senor Staff to the observation lounge”. She turned to Mrs. Glass and politely
said “We will have to finish the conversation later” as she hurried off to the turbo
lift.
“Deck 1” said Lilly as the turbo lift began to rise up. Before
she could count to ten, Lilly always counted on turbo lifts because she found
them a little un-nerving. The turbo lift had reached the bridge she quickly stepped
off the scurried into the observation lounge. As the door slid open “Good day
Sir’s” Lilly said taking her a seat near the front of the table.
USS Kent, Shuttle Bay One
USS Kent
Turbolift
Jack O'Grady stood with his usual rigid posture, hands clasp behind his back, duty uniform crisp and sharp edged with his sidearm securely holstered at his hip.
"Deck One."
The lift hummed to life.
A short time later Jack entered the observation lounge, snapping off a quick salute at the doorway, and taking his seat at the table.
--
G.Sgt Jack O'Grady
Marine Platoon Sergeant
Chief of the Boat
Observation Lounge, Deck 1
Marian returned the greeting of each officer, having answered Danar in the affirmative before the others arrived, then, once everyone is seated and has a drink, she begins to speak, pulling up a diagram of a star system on the main screen of the lounge.
"The Arentia system exists in an area of space about one-fifth of a sector in size that lies in dispute between the Federation and the Breen Confederacy due to a point of vagueness in the Treaty of Bajor. I'll not go into the details of that vagueness, except to say that both powers have some merit to their claim. However, as a pre-warp civilization, they were protected from interference from the Federation by the Prime Directive and from the Breen by a clause in the Treaty of Bajor that kept them from exerting their influence on any pre-warp system within two parsecs of Federation space."
She took a sip of her cocoa before continuing. "Four months ago, the Arenti tested a warp drive, removing them from the protection of the Treaty of Bajor. In the time since, the Breen have begun to stage raids on their colonies on Arentia V and the moons of Arentia VII, taking resources and slaves. Since Arentia is claimed by the Federation, Starfleet Command sees itself as having interests there. However, they are not Federation members, which means that the Prime Directive still applies."
After inhaling deeply, she continued. "Which brings us to the reason that the Kent was called in, rather than one of the ships that was closer. The Arenti have a strongly-held set of principles, and the one most dear to them - the way that loyalty is held by the Cardassians, honor by the Klingons, and community by Earth's humans - is self-reliance. They have refused help from another Federation ship already, though their society is in danger of absolute destruction at the hands of Breen slavers. We cannot help them unless we are asked to, so we must convince them to request our help."
She finished her drink. "In the short term, we could also offer some aid if we had to do so for our own safety - if the Breen were to attack our ship or our runabouts, for example. But to allow the Federation to do anything substantive, we need a formal request from the Arethi government."
She closed her eyes a moment before asking, "Any questions or suggestions?"
Kaida leaned back in her chair and brought up the relevant database entries for the system in the back of her mind, scanning slowly through the text for the key ideas as she studied the system map absently. A proud people, perhaps, or simply fearful of outside meddling? What drives their desire to be left to their own devices?
She took a sip of her drink and silently buried a sigh at the inefficiency of relying on verbal communication in such situations. A simple review exchange would be far more productive. With a determined little shake of her head, she put the thought out of her mind; she wasn't going to be crewing with a properly enhanced team, so she couldn't linger on it - it would do no good, and frustrate her in the meantime. Tapping the table lightly with two fingers for attention, she shifted her gaze from the chart to the Captain. "What do we know about their prior encounters with outsiders general, and Federation vessels in particular, Captain? The reports in the general access file are less than clear on the subject, and other than a notation in the system's file that a request to assist was refused there's nothing on what happened with or to the USS Cochrane."
Marian looked to Kaida. Good questions. If she weren't such a great pilot, I'd ask for her in the diplomatic corps... to teach, if not to do the work. "So far as we know, prior to their first warp flight, they were never contacted by another sentient race... they existed free of outside interference. Their first encounter with aliens was the Breen ship that detected their test vessel's warp signature; it immediately changed course and raided the colony on Arethia VII Beta, taking somewhere between eight and twenty-four Arethi prisoners. Since then, their contact has been with Breen raiders, apart from the visit from the Cochrane."
"So there are several obvious questions that arise." The Lagashi pilot folded her hands in her lap and half-closed her eyes as she spoke, her gaze seeming to drift a little off to the side as though she were reading something in the air. "First, are they refusing out of pure desire to handle the problem themselves or do they fear that any outside starship will take advantage of them in some way? Second, is there a proper way to offer assistance in their culture without intruding on the self-reliance of the individual and can we discover it in some way? Third, from a more tactical perspective, do we have any mechanisms of providing them assistance of which they might remain unaware and which would not have direct effects on them, should they choose to continue refusing us?"
The Glinn frowned as the way Kaida spoke assaulted his ears and brain. So many words to say such a simple thing. Is she just trying to impress us with her vocabulary or does she just not know better? He keeps his composure, however, not showing any sign of what he was thinking.
"No. The risk is too great. If we attempt to go in, stealthily, and we do not succeed and are caught, than the Arethi will never accept Starfleet aide." He shrugs, and takes another sip of his coffee. "Also. . Though the Cardassian way of doing things would be to be a bit sneaky, that's not the Starfleet way. Not for diplomatic situations." Glinn Danar said, his voice sounding slightly bored. After he finished his coffee, he looked at Marian.
"Am I right Captain?" He has made his opinion clear, hopefully more clear than the way Kaida tried to voice hers, but it was ultimately up to the Captain.
USS Kent
Observation Lounge
Jack cleared his throat loudly.
"So let me make sure I understand this situation ma'am, as I'm not much of a diplomat.." Jack said looking at no one in particular.
"There is a planet in contested space, which has not yet formally joined the Federation, but still resides within Federation space. I say 'Federation space' because of course contested means we believe its ours, they believe its theirs, I'm siding with us."
Jack turned his gaze directly to the Captain.
"So what we have in a Breen military presence, performing hostile action against a sentient race within Federation borders. Correct?"
"In my opinion our course of action is clear, we show up, flex some muscle and show the Breen that we will protect out sovereign territory whether the ..Arethi.. want our help or not."
--
G.Sgt Jack O'Grady
Marine XO
COB
Marian nodded her agreement with Danar before turning her attention to O'Grady. "The problem with that, Sergeant, is the Prime Directive... the system is within Federation-claimed space, but the Federation also recognizes the sovereignty of non-member worlds within its space, as well as their right to not be interfered with." She sighed. "When I received our orders, I asked about the possibility of setting up a blockade outside the system's heliosheath, in Federation-claimed space, but the system is closer to Breen supply lines than our own. Without being able to operate from within the system itself, any long-term deployment isn't feasible."
She sighed. "Our orders are that Kent will not interfere directly with the Breen unless we are provoked, or the Arethi request our assistance. I plan to attempt to convince the Breen to provoke us. Does anyone have any suggestions as to how to do that?"
The Cardassian smirked, and let out a low chuckle. "You could let me talk to them. I do have a knack for rubbing people the wrong way." He shook his head and laughed again to show that he was joking.
"We cannot interfere unless the Arethi ask us too, but what is keeping us from talking to the Breen themselves? Some well worded, easy to understand advice, a little criticism here and there. . ." The Glinn shrugs. " And than the Breen will be more than happy to force our hand. That tactic has worked for the cardassians many a time."
Marian folded her hands together, considering the plans from her first and second officers before responding. "Perhaps a combination of the two ideas, with some thoughts of my own." She smiled a small smile. "Commander Li Ling, I plan to go to the capital on Arethia IV and meet with the local government to establish contact. I will need to be transported there by runabout, since the Kent will have to remain outside the system; the fact that the Breen have, until now, been coming and going as they please means we will need an escort of fighters. I'll leave the specifics of that to you."
She then looked to Danar. "Thus do I leave the Kent in your hands, Glinn. You will stop any Breen ship you can reach that passes within a half light-year of the system and demand to search them. You will do everything short of actually firing on them that you can to convince them of your sincerity, and, once aboard, you will make their lives as miserable as you possibly can short of causing them physical harm. The first act of physical aggression must come from the Breen."
She rose to her feet to make her way to the replicator and order another drink. "Each of you can choose what crew you wish for your portions of the mission."
[At the same time the conference had begun, Diplomatic Attache Office]
Sitting quietly in her office, while the other senior staff chewed on for the last few minutes about the situation the Arethi have at their gates, Lt. Ruonne senior Diplomatic Officer, bit pensively on her lower lip. She took another glace on her pad to the limited information on the Arethia System and what is know about its inhabitants.
It has finally become clear to Aprya what is missing from the reports, everything. well, everything that is important, like their customs. 'Do they use the same word for hello as goodbye?' she thought. Well this is a little more complete than her last assignment. which is why she does not eat mushrooms anymore.
Her last diplomatic mission was with a report of Sentient Indigenous Species of Beta Pralex II, that's the whole report. Turns out that they were very eager to make her acquaintance and was gratefull to open trade relations with the Federation. She has met all kinds of Aliens throuh-out the galaxy in the last 6 years since she joined Star Fleet but the Pralex were the first evolved from Fungus.
She should be able to handle this as well. Although the Arethi are not as inclined to be as friendly as the Pralex had been. "Well, I'm late,' she gasped, "but I needed time to consider a diplomatic approach."
[Command deck, Observation Lounge]
The doors to the lounge parted and the emerald skinned, Lt. Ruonne Aprya stepped in. Her Bajoran ear dress chimed a quiet jingle in her ear, which flashed a look of embarrassment in her violet eyes. She stood still while the captain was addressing the staff.
"Commander Li Ling, I plan to go to the capital on Arethia IV and meet with the local government to establish contact. I will need to be transported there by runabout, since the Kent will have to remain outside the system; the fact that the Breen have, until now, been coming and going as they please means we will need an escort of fighters. I'll leave the specifics of that to you."
She then looked to Danar. "Thus do I leave the Kent in your hands, Glinn. You will stop any Breen ship you can reach that passes within a half light-year of the system and demand to search them. You will do everything short of actually firing on them that you can to convince them of your sincerity, and, once aboard, you will make their lives as miserable as you possibly can short of causing them physical harm. The first act of physical aggression must come from the Breen."
The captain rose to her feet to make her way to the replicator
and order another drink. "Each of you can choose what crew you wish
for your portions of the mission."
"Excuse me Captain O'Rourke" Aprya began in a clam and apologetic voice, "I'm quite sorry that I am late for the briefing. However, ma'am, I have some suggestions."
Marian looked up at the newcomer. Orion... Rounne. "Don't make a habit of tardiness, Lieutenant. I'll let it slide this time. Voice your suggestions, if you would." She sipped from her new cup of cocoa, making a face. Too hot.
"My apologies Ma'am, I shall not make my tardiness a habit. I needed
some addition time to examine the situation." Aprya said scanning the
staff with her eyes, that were deeply highlighted by the violet of her
tunic collar.
"My first suggestion is that we sell them help. We offer to sell to
them aid by Leasing, if you would, the Kent, and any other ship that
could be used in a response to Breen aggressions. We offer them a
contract for a time for a price that they set. I know that Star Fleet
and its personnel are not mercenaries. However this would be a way for
them to accept our help and retain their sense of self-reliance.
"Secondly, as far as the Breen are concerned I fully agree with the Kent policing the system. I do not however recommend that we 'police' Breen ships exclusively. I would suggest that any ship not of Star Fleet, Federation, Breen, Ferengi, Cardassian, Klingon, or whomever be stopped for routine customs inspections. This way though you wish to draw the Breen out, we do not look like we are 'picking on them'
"Finally, I hope I am joining you planet-side ma'am. I would love the opportunity to learn more about thier customs and language. I may be an asset in negotiating terms of our aide to them as well as potential Federation membership."
Aprya finished and waited patiently for questions from the staff and comments from the captain.
Selling protection. A clever approach, and very unlike the Federation. Kaida shifted slightly in her seat, studying the new arrival and making a note to review the available pieces of her personnel file when the opportunity arose. Since she'll likely be riding the Captain's wing, and therefore be very much my problem. She tapped her fingers lightly on the table again, fixing Aprya with a not-entirely comforting gaze. "There is the obvious difficulty, Lieutenant, that the natives may conclude that we are selling protection in the fashion of the Orion Syndicate or Earth's historical organized crime families. Not to mention that many cultures have both moral and practical reservations about employing mercenaries - need I list the history of interstellar despots who started out in such a fashion?" She paused for a beat, then deliberately softened her expression. "It has the ring of a good idea, but approaching it will have certain risks of which we should be aware."
She tapped her fingers lightly on the table again, fixing Aprya with a not-entirely comforting gaze. "There is the obvious difficulty, Lieutenant, that the natives may conclude that we are selling protection in the fashion of the Orion Syndicate or Earth's historical organized crime families. Not to mention that many cultures have both moral and practical reservations about employing mercenaries - need I list the history of interstellar despots who started out in such a fashion?" She paused for a beat, then deliberately softened her expression. "It has the ring of a good idea, but approaching it will have certain risks of which we should be aware."
-bladedancer
Aprya's visage paled slightly from the emerald green it is when its healthy to a somewhat drabby sage, as the Lt.Commander 's mention of the Orion Syndicate. I'm not an Orion, I'm Bajora! her mind blazed as she struggled with the apparent prejudice from the Lt. Commander, I may have been born green with a smooth nose but my people, my culture, my family are all Bajoran. She pursed her lips and reached up to her clan ear dress touching it softly, as the thoughts raced through her mind as her eyes met the contemptuous gaze of Ms. Kaida.
Aprya took a moment to regain her composure and force her feelings aside. She made a mental note to contact Vedek Pryll to seek her wisdom later on.
This woman is my senior I must tread carefully.
"Yes, commander, I am fully aware of the implications of my suggestion. As it were, it was a mere suggestion, I have my assistants currently working on proposals that would follow along the lines of making certain that the Arenti will benifit only slightly from the deal, just enough to lull them in accepting our services. I do propose that any ship, marine attachment, or support unit involved in this protection service will be at the disposal of their military command.
"The contract would be for six months standard time or less. Our commander shall answer to their commander-n-chief and civil executive administrator. We only act with in the limits that Star Fleet Command allows and according to our own charter..." Lt. Ruonne's face now brightens slightly with a seductive smile that could ignite the flames of the males in the room as she delivers the hinge, "...and this is the kicker commander, we pay them."
Off:
[OCC is the spelling of the 'aliens' Arenti or Arenthi? I've seen both ways ans at first I spelled as the second,, but re-reading the posts I see that it was the first in trailfoot's initial posting.]
(Arethi. No n.)
Li Ling would not have seen the offense offered; and Aprya did not rise to it. Well-done, both of you. "You will be joining me on the visit to the capital. While we're there for the first time, Lieutenant, I want you to ask questions of government aides and staffers. Learn more about these people through direct interaction... the Cochrane lacked a dedicated diplomat, and they missed the opportunity to do that. Learning more about the people, rather than meeting only with the government, will be a large advantage for us."
She considered the rest of what the diplomat had said. Selling our services is an interesting idea, and might work if their idea of self-reliance is as much economic as it is practical. If not, though... "We will certainly have to stop any vessel we detect entering the system. As for the selling of our services... perhaps that should wait until we understand how they think better."
O'Grady speaks up for a second time.
"Whatever their hang-up on self reliance is, I'll bet you my left boot that if we find and free some Arethi slaves from these Breen dirtbags and return them to their government, they would be inclined to say something like 'Hey, it sure sucked being a slave prisoner, I sure am glad that these Federation people rescued us, maybe we should join their side so we stop being abducted by those other jerks.'"
He rises to his feet, hands on the table in front of him
"I sure as hell haven't served this Federation as a Marine for over a decade, fought wars, battles and skirmishes to kowtow to a bunch of slimeball slavers over something as silly as a jurisdictional dispute. You find the nearest Breen ship, you get me and my Marines on it and we'll tear it apart deckplate by deckplate until we find a Arethi slave or god willing one of the Breen tries to stop us."
There were few things O'Grady despised more than slavers, and the feeling of wasting time was certainly getting his ire up.
"With respect, ma'am." O'Grady said matter-of-factly as he sat back down.
---
G.Sgt Jack O'Grady
Marine XO
COB
He certainly has an unusual way of displaying it. I wonder if this is a common Marine cultural phenomenon? Kaida studied the Sergeant for a moment, a faintly amused smile tugging at her lips. I will have to research that service's customs more thoroughly. Still, his opinion of the Breen seems to match my own, if perhaps a bit less artfully phrased. She shifted her attention back to the Captain, noting in passing that the Diplomatic Officer seemed to be returning to a more vibrant shade. Distress, or simply first-time tension? She buried a silent sigh of frustration and conjured a smile to cover it. I will never understand why the citizens of this Federation cannot simply express themselves directly. It would save a great deal of time and energy.
She put the thought aside for further consideration later with the flick of an eyelid, refocusing on the task at hand. "Standard procedure for a potentially hostile first or second contact requires an armed escort for the negotiating team, Captain. Given that the Glinn may intend to conduct boarding operations in our absence, do you feel the Marine detachment could spare us a four man fire-team for the purpose? Supplemented with a matching number from Security, that ought to be sufficient for any security needs we have on the ground."
Marian looked to O'Grady. Savagely put, but my heart agrees. "We can't fire on them, or do physical damage to their ships, until they've fired on us, Sergeant. It is frustrating, but it is also Federation law and fits with the orders I have. Can we spare a fire team for use on the ground, as Lieutenant Commander Kaida suggests?"
The Glinn just sat back and listened. Certainly he knew where O'Grady was coming from, but he also knew they couldn't straight out fire on people. The cardassian was also enjoying the fact that everyone was speaking about with, as though he wasn't there. That amused him to no end.
I am here, but no one sees me. I must admit, that even I am a bit unsettled by it. Maybe I've become invisible and no one has noticed? That thought brought a chuckle into his throat and he hide to fight to not laugh. Instead, he decided to speak up, as it seems like this meeting was beginning to become a waste of his time.
"Ahem. Have we settled on the plans? You see, I have much to plan for my harass. ." He stops midword, intentionally. "I mean, my inspection of the Breen ships. I believe O'Grady would like to accompany me? Certainly you didn't want me going, unescorted?"
Diplomats.
"Then we'll do it metaphorically speaking ma'am. And of course you'll have your protection detail. Realistically I'll only require myself and two squads to act as the boarding/search party."
--
G.Sgt Jack O'Grady
Marian nodded, rising to her feet. "Then we have our plans. Commander Kaida and Sergeant O'Grady, have your people ready when we arrive at the system. I plan to leave for the planet immediately on our arrival. Dismissed." She turned to leave the room. Looks like we're doing this.
Marian nodded, rising to her feet. "Then we have our plans. Commander Kaida and Sergeant O'Grady, have your people ready when we arrive at the system. I plan to leave for the planet immediately on our arrival.
Aprya nodded to herself in agreement with all the Senior Staff on the proposed plan. I don't entirely disagree with Gunny O'Grady on needing a decisive action in this sliver of disputed space. However certain measures must be taken with delicate hands before we use anyone rushes in with an "Iron Fist."
She had thought. However my dear Sargent, you will most likely get your fight.
"Dismissed." The Captain said and the staffers began to make their ways out of the Lounge.
"Excuse me, Commander Li Ling, Do you have a minute?"
<tag Lt. Commander Li Ling>
"Of course, Lieutenant Ruonne." Easing up from her chair, Kaida found herself looking down at the smaller Orion woman and resisted the urge to smile more than politely. It would not do to make her feel as though I found her size amusing. "Would you mind if we stepped to the other side of the conference room before we speak? I would like to take in the view. If you wish to get yourself something from the replicator as we go, please feel welcome."
Katell Danar stands and slowly walks out the door, not even giving a passing glance to the two who had lagged behind inorder to converse amongst themselves. The Glinn did, however, call out to O' Grady.
"Sergeant. You'll be accompanying me, of course, but if you do not mind, I would like a roster of the marines you wish to assign to the boarding parties." The cardassian paused, and chuckled lightly. "Excuse me, It seems as though I misspoke. I meant I would like to see a roster of marines that you do assign to the boarding party." He gave O' Grady a not quite to beliveable smile. "ASAP, that is what you human military folks say, isn't it?" He chuckles again, only lightly, shaking his head at his amusement for human terminology.
"Perhaps we can discuss tactics over some . . ah. . coffee? No, you look more of a hard liquor man. " The Glinn said, obviously just deciding that O' Grady must not be a drinker of coffee for whatever foolish reason had popped into the Cardassian's head. "Fine than. You can drink what you like, you don't have to drink, truth be told. I'll be in my office, expecting that report."
The Cardassian than walked off, fully aware he hardly gave O' Grady a chance to speak.
USS Kent
Bridge
"Captain, we are approaching the system." The Operations officer looked to Marian. "No signs of Breen activity in the system yet, though there is a group of three Breen ships moving in this direction at a distance of three light years. Their ETA is two hours."
Marian nodded. "Danar, the bridge is yours. Get her back to me in one piece." She tapped her commbadge. "O'Rourke to Grady, Ruonne, and Li Ling. Gather your teams and prepare to depart. Meet me in the fighter wing's hangar."
With that, she rose to her feet, making her way to the turbolift. "Deck 6."
The Glinn watches The Captain leave the bridge, than settles into the captain's chair, fully aware he is only guarding it in her absence. He sighs slightly, slumping down a little in his seat, one fist clutched tightly around a small, worn velvet covered box.
Sianna. Its finally time. It seems as though I am back at work again. It feels different though, knowing you won't be there when I come back home. . waiting for me with open arms. Katell Danar thinks to himself, clutching the box tighter. Perhaps, I should of followed you, than maybe I would not be so lonely. .
He than looked at the communication's officer. "Hail the head Breen ship the moment they come in range. I want them to be quite aware we are here."
USS Kent, Shuttle Bay One
“Acknowledged, Captain.” Tapping her communicator lightly, Kaida straightened up and cleared her throat. “All right, people, you know what to do. Rapier flight, you have cover. Get your birds hot and ready to fly. Simon, you'll have the Bertinelli in tight cover – you ride Rapier One's thruster wash all the way to orbit, all right? The Captain's going to be coming along on this one, so nobody even thinks about hot-dogging it, clear? Your vectors are in your flight computers, and you know your orders. We aren't looking for a fight today, but if we get one... well, that's going to be a terrible shame for the short-circuit who tries it. Questions?” She gave it three long beats, then nodded. “Good. Load up, ladies and gentlemen.”
Watching her pilots take the unhurried stroll to their fighters, Kaida pushed down a pang of nostalgic jealousy and glanced over her shoulder at the Grayson. Big, sloppy and slow. At least I'll be able to tuck the Captain in you without needing to cram her into an emergency kit, though.
“Gathering moonbeams, boss?”
“Just reviewing the mission, Chief.” She gave her Tactical Support Officer a crooked smile, and got one in return; this would be Chief Warrant Officer Leary's first time as her trigger-man outside of simulations, but he'd flow as a back-seater for one of the flight leaders for the Astarte's bomber squadron and he'd paid his dues the hard way. His broad grin widened knowingly, and she gave him a dry look that suggested teasing his CO on the first day was not the way to avoid pulling double duty details. “Go see how the Ensign is settling in, would you? She's fresh enough to... what is it you Terrans say – squeak?”
Leary's low, bass laugh rumbled in his throat as he straightened up from his slouch against the Blackhawk's hull. “Miss Reis is a little green, ma'am, but I think she knows where to find the switches. Still, I'll make sure she doesn't accidentally wire all the squadron communications channels into the classical music matrix.”
“Exemplary. Now I just need to find Ensign Grace and make sure that she's ready for our security group."
USS Kent
Marine Garrison
"Aye ma'am" O'Grady said, acknowledging the Captain.
The Marine Garrison consisted of mostly open deck space, with only the required load-bearing supports and beams filling the space. It contained the Marine living quarters, PT, training, planning and recreation areas. It also contained the Marine armoury. It was essentially the Marines own private world on board the ship.
In the background two squads were busy performing search and seizure exercises.
"Protection Detail! Front and Centre!"
Four armed and armoured Marines formed up in a single rank facing the Sergeant at attention, rifles at their sides.
"You have your assignments. Protection detail for the Diplomatic team. Remain vigilant. Remain faithful. Semper Fidelus!"
"Semper Fi!"
"Detail! Right Turn!"
The Detail team pivoted 90 degrees to the right with perfect precision. O'Grady turning to his left at the same time, lined up mid-file to the Detail Team.
"By the left! Quick, March!"
The Marines marched in perfect formation with O'Grady, making their way to the flight deck.
Jack wouldn't be accompanying them planetside of course, but he was sure as hell going to see them off on their first active assignment under his command.
Soon the synced footsteps of the 5 Marines could be heard nearing the Lt Cmdr's position.
"Detail! Halt!"
With a snap the Marines stood rigid in place.
"Detail, Left Turn!"
O'Grady turned to address the detail.
"At ease. Fall out and load up."
And with that the protection detail stepped back and made their way to board the Grayson.
--
G.Sgt Jack O'Grady
As the Marines finished boarding, Marian stepped into the fighter bay, eyes moving over the brand-new Arrow-class runabout. "I'd never seen one of these in person..." She looked to Kaida. "I've always been impressed by the ability of Starfleet's designers to build things that are both functional and artistic; the Arrow is one of the best examples of that." She smiled, then paused. "I'm letting myself get distracted. How long until we are ready to launch?"
(OOC: I'm sorry but I had been busy, was noot able to be availblae to finish my Tag request with Kaida, I'll make an appointment to back log the conversation.)
[Flight Deck, USS Kent,]
Aprya watched with amazement, she had not seen precession drilling since her academy days. The Marines impress her with the cold iron movements and sequenced steps to the cadence called off by Gunny O'Grady. Impresive. Most of the Fleet are not as engineered as a Marine company, but the fleet personnel do not need to be.
"Detail! Halt!"
With a snap the Marines stood rigid in place.
"Detail, Left Turn!"
O'Grady turned to address the detail.
"At ease. Fall out and load up."
She then waved her hand and her small detail of two stepped away from the lift to come to the right of their captain and Lt Commander Li Ling who watched as the Marines boarded the Runabout. Captain O'Rouke was addressing the Commander as she approached, "How long until we are ready to launch?"
Aprya waited until they finished before she spoke. "Captain, Diplomatic Department is ready." She stood in at ease stance with her Aid Ensign Ferris Nomak [NPC] to her rear.
[OFF]
"They're a lovely piece of work, ma'am." All things considered, I'd rather be strapping into one of my Valkyries, but policy is policy. "Ensign Grace should have the Kyle ready to launch with our escort in another minute or so, Captain, and they'll set up a security perimeter. If you and the delegation will find seats aboard the Grayson, we should be ready to follow them by the time the three of you are settled." Shifting her attention to the Orion diplomat for a moment, Kaida's expression was as unreadable as the smooth metal of the Arrow's hull. "If you and your assistant are ready, Lieutenant?"
Kyle
Ensign Saving Grace sits inside the cockpit of the Blackhawk, eagerly waiting the launch time.
Don't worry. . I'll bring you home safe. The chameloid said to the ship as she patted its helm with loving care. She reached out to the communicator, flipping it on.
"Ensign Grace to Lieutenant Commander Li Ling. The Kyle is ready for take off, just say the word."
Grace than leaned back in her seat, a smug smile on her face. What a great first mission. I'll make sure we get the Captain down safely.
Kent, Bridge
The flight detachment had been gone nearly a half-hour when the second-shift Operations officer, Ensign Rodney Paquil, spoke up, fingers moving over his console. "Glinn Danar, I'm reading two Breen transports and one frigate, approaching from heading 426 mark 2. ETA three... no, two hours. When they saw us, they accelerated. Subspace message incoming. 'Federation vessel, you have violated Breen space as set out in the Treaty of Bajor. You have until our arrival to withdraw, or there will be strong consequences.'" He shrugged. "My last posting was aboard a Nova... that threat would have worried me then."
Grayson, Cockpit
Leary ran another check of the runabout's sensors, then blinked at a reading. "Boss, I've got a floater... one not in the databanks." He gestured to the reading in question - a dwarf planet, about three hundred kilometers across, with a moon half its size. "Nickle-iron crust; can't get much information past that."
Kent
Glinn Danar looked at Ensign Paquil, an amused smirk on his face. "Send a message back, reading as follows. Breen vessel, we are the USS Kent and regret to inform you that you are in Starfleet space. Moreover, we are here to do a search and possible seizure of your ship. Correction. Not seizure of you ship, but any sentient beings that may be aboard unwillingly. As of Starfleet Order 20. We suggest you cooperate or the consequenses could be dire. Message end"
After finishing the message, he leans back in the Captain's chair, almost chuckling to himself. Breen space? They don't deserve space.
Grayson
"Notifying the Kyle and shifting course for a Lariant roll. That ought to give you plenty of sensor angles for an en passant scan without costing us more than a minute." Suiting action to words, Kaida's fingers danced lightly over the runabout's controls as she rechecked her course numbers through her mental uplink. Clean, if broad. You may not be much for dancing, girl, but you've got power to burn.
Turning her head, she remembered to offer the Captain and the Orion Lieutenant a reassuring smile rather than telegraphing her intentions with a aura-flash update. "If either of you are prone to motion sickness, I suggest averting your eyes from the viewports. We're going to give an unregistered dwarf planet Chief Leary just discovered a scanning pass that will be a little bit ... intricate."
Kent, Bridge
Paquil transmitted the message. "No response; they're continuing toward the system. Wait... one of the transports has turned back. That leaves only one transport and the frigate on their way in." The Ops officer sighed. "Something was beamed from the frigate to the transport that turned back."
Grayson, Cockpit
Marian nodded. "Transmit the data to the Kent... their computers should be able to tell us more about the dwarf planet than those on the runabout could. How much longer until we reach the planet?"
Kent
The Glinn sighed and chuckled lightly. "Don't you mean, someone Ensign? That's reason enough to do a search. I'll just add their computer records to the lists of things to go. .. Oh, what's this?" He says, as the console on the arm of the Captain's chair blips. "A dwarf planet? . . . Well, I'll get the science crew on it right away." With a few flicks of his fingertips, he sends the science station the information that was sent from the Grayson about the dwarf planet.
"Now, back to the Breen's suspicious behavior. Send them another message. As follows. Breen ships, we are well aware that you sent one of your number back to where it came, however, I must inform you of the suspicious outlook that casts upon your remaining vessels. Therefor, I have decided to board along with the search parties, to speak with the Captain of each ship and make sure there are no misunderstandings. I look forward to meeting you. Sincerely, Executive Officer Glinn Danar. end transmission." He looks at the Ops officer, and exchanges a smile with him.
"That should get them sweating underneath those helmets. Not that they sweat. Actually, I don't know if they do. ." Katell suddenly sits up, a curious look on his face. He turns towards the science station and asks "Do the Breen sweat? How would I go about finding out?"
Nowing full well the Breens lack of morals Brea was already to blast them should they actually get hostile. She was pleased that the Kent was so formidible. But the Breen were never to be trusted. She was awaiting the Captains or Xo's orders.
Grayson, Cockpit
Kaida's fingers danced gently across her console, though she hardly seemed to need to glance at the displays before she answered. "About seven minutes, Captain, assuming that they do not insist on an extra escort or scan. Once we are on the ground, we should let Security and the Marines from Kyle sweep the landing area and then we will finally get around to meeting our hosts. I trust that will be acceptable, ma'am?"
Marian nodded. "Quite acceptable, Commander. I'll leave you to do your job." She slipped back into the passenger area, retaking her seat to prepare for landing.
For just a few minutes, Kaida allowed herself the simple pleasure of slicing the Grayson through Areth IV's upper atmosphere like an Old Earth rocket, setting a pure ballistic arc that plunged a smooth hundred kilometers through the thickening atmopshere, ripping a wide hole through the local cloud cover as she kicked in the engines and smoothly sliced her descent velocity to a bare kilmeter per minute in seconds. The Kyle slid past her, settling smoothly to the back of the landing pad set in the midst of what looked to be a long, black-sand beach on the short of an inland sea, and she let the Grayson slow further to an almost leisurely float until the security detail pinged her console. Clear. For now, at least. With a light touch of her controls, she brought the runabout in until the landing gear gently kissed the pad's firm surface, then slipped out of her seat and automatically brushed a hand over the ornate pistol-sized weapons holstered around her waist on her way into the cabin. "Captain, Lieutenant, welcome to Areth IV. We are now clear to disembark."
Marian rose to her feet, looking to Kaida. "Well done, Commander." She then turned to Aprya. "Lieutenant, join me. Commander, I'll leave it to you whether you accompany us to the capital or remain on your ship." She moved toward the runabout's hatch.
As if I am likely to let a senior officer wander around unescorted, ma'am. Kaida felt a smile tugging at the edge of her lip, but pushed it down and fell into step next to Aprya as the two of the flanked the Captain on the way out.
Kent bridge
With the captain out of sensor and now comm range, it was a tense time. Brea held her pease but kept sweeping the Breen just to let them know the long arms of the kents firepower were watching them.
She did not care if the Breen did sweat, but knowing the devious nature of the Cardassians in general wondered what the XO might be pointed toward, he was obviously seeking a little protected fact to use to his advantage, it would be mostly her job to see that he could...................
Kent, Bridge
The Operations officer, on seeing the man at Science occupied with Danar's questions, spoke up. "Glinn Danar, I'm detecting an oddity on sensors. Neutrino surge. I can't localize the source to any area smaller than a radius of three hundred kilometers. It's moving out of the system... its current course indicates that it may have been en route from the eighth planet to the plutoid Grayson detected, and changed course to leave the system."
Areth IV
Marian moved with her security and diplomatic detachment toward the large capitol building. As they went, three beings stepped forward to meet them. The lead, a man twig-slender and nearly seven feet tall, spoke first. "I am Speaker Oreth, of the Arethi General Assembly. We welcome the speakers of the United Federation of Planets, and offer our hospitality."
Marian nodded. "I am Captain Marian O'Rourke, Federation diplomat and Captain of the USS Kent. May my crew enjoy the city?"
The Speaker considered. "They must remain to the government and business sectors, and not interfere with the activities of our citizens. But they may move about those areas freely."
Marian nodded. "First fire team, Li Ling, with me. Everyone else is free to look around; meet me at the provided quarters within an hour after nightfall." She turned to join the Speaker.
Areth IV
Saving Grace had decided to stay with the runabouts and shuttles while the Captain and the others went to be diplomatic.
Honestly, diplomacy bored her. Maybe not bored her, but she didn't seem to understand the strange nuances that lie beneath what diplomats actually say. Reminded her of how Cardassians spoke in a way. Grace knew diplomacy was needed, and was often better than fighting, but it wasn't something she was ever good at.
The chameloid girl sighed, leaning against her Blackhawk. She was glad to have a moment to think about things. She liked the Kent. She had requested to be aboard the Kent so she may improve her diplomatic knowledge. Grace usually relied on force to solve her problems, and that had given her quite the reputation at the Academy. It was a shame though, she lost the majority of her fights, since she wasn't paticularly strong and didn't like gaining the advantage with her limited shape shifting. She had later learned, however, to use her chosen's form small size to her advantage, and could win most of the fights she gets into. Angry people don't expect a whole hell of a lot of resistance from a small, blond headed girl that looked fourteen at best.
USS Kent
Glinn Danar looked over at Paquil, the operation's officer, and raised a brow. "Indeed?" He than sunk a little lower into his chair, deep in thought.
A runabout. A romulan. I doubt the romulans would be here, investigating a planetoid thing. A black hole? Some undiscovered inregularity? No, it's moving away. The timing of its moving away is too coincidental with our approach. It's moving on purpose. Because we are here. I want to know why. .
He than spoke up. "I need those scans of the planetoid thing the Grayson discovered sent to my console. And any further reports. Also, keep an eye on whatever elese might be moving towards or away from it, understand?" His orders were to the whole bridge, and everyone could note that the Cardassian sounded slightly amused.
Kent bridge.
As soon as Brea heard of the Neutrino surge her bells started to hum, she split her targeting regretfully but was able to pick up the trail. It very well could be a cloaked ship, the system was particulate heavy, even a cloak collected dust. problem was all cloaking from every known race gave off neutrinos. It felt wrong, but she could not sense anything close.
"Glinn I suggest sending additional support to away teams an extra sensor or pilot or weapon never hurts, something is off center, I can feel it"..............
Arias walked in to his laboratory for the first time - he was transported aboard USS Kent only few hours ago, and despite it was his first duty to speak to the captain of the vessel - young scientist decided to vissit his laboratory. Insignia class was one of the newest introduced to the Fleet, and Obiang was truly interested in what it's scientific base was like.
The place was empty - it was little late - no one was around. That was something new for Arias, since he was used to certain kind of movement in the lab. "Well no matter" - he thought to himself. This state gave him quite an oportunity to scan through computer core.
As expected - computer was state of the art... New - based on bioneural technology, fast and effective. Engineers raised it's capabilities about 9.4% and it could be felt.
He than looked through the database... Laboratory was barely used - no real experiments, nothing new - just boring stuff - regular duty and than off to the ten forward... Well that was about to change.
Katell Danar glanced at Brea momentarily, taking her suggestion into consideration. "I can not send any more people, or this ship and the away teams that are set to board the Breen ships will be severely undermanned. Besides, the Captain has Lieutenant Commander Li Ling and several marines with her. Also, if you had noticed, the surge was moving away, fleeing. If it is or was a sentient being, I would guess its scared."
The Cardassian paused for a moment, than broke out in a rather creepy smile. "What I will do for you, is send out a probe. We need better information anyway, our scans just aren't cutting it."
He than looks to Paquil, the operations officer. "Send out a probe to the planetoid. I want to know why whoever just left found it so interesting."
On:
"If you and your assistant are ready, Lieutenant?" Lt Commander Li Ling, addressed Aprya,
"We are Commander, Thank you." Aprya nodded to Ensign Nomak. Nomak proceed ahead of her as they boarded the Arrow Class run about. they both found seating a midships.Two of O'Grady's marines watched as they boarded. A gruff looking human in battle gear caught her eye and give a coy but obvious wink. Lt. ruonne shook her head and quietly sat down. nomak handed her a padd, that detailed all of what Star Fleet knew about the Arethi. Still not much.
OFF:sorry its short but I'll post more latter.
Marian made her way through the corridors of the capitol building, accompanied by Oreth, Kaida, and the Marines. As they went, Oreth spoke. "We appreciate the Federation's offers of help... truly, we do. Someday, the Arethi hope to be allies of the Federation... but when that day comes, we want it to be as equals. We could not look your people in the eyes if we owed as much to you as we would after you fought the masked ones for us, Captain."
Marian nodded. "That is a sentiment I can appreciate, Speaker. There was, however, a suggestion made by a member of my crew... perhaps we could help you against the Breen, not as a favor, but as a part of an even trade... if you had something the Federation would find valuable, would you be willing to offer it in exchange for our aid... something that would allow us to offer what we have and you do not, in return for something you have and we do not, to mutual gain?"
The Speaker considered that. "The Breen are powerful, and we are led to understand that the Federation is even moreso. I doubt that we have anything that we would be willing to part with, and that you could want from us... but we would certainly be willing to consider a bargain."
USS Kent, Bridge
The Ops officer tapped his console, firing a probe. "Probe away, Glinn. Breen frigate entering visual range. They are proceeding toward the system regardless of our warnings. Your orders?"
Katell Danar smirks, and turns quickly to the helmsman to give his orders. "Advance on their ships. Get close enough to be a threat, but not close enough to be threatening, if you get my meaning. You!" He looks again at Paquil. "Send them another message, as follows. Breen Vessels, you are blatantly ignoring our warnings, so I am forced to conclude you just don't care, or our messages have just been somewhat . . . cloudy, unclear. So I have ordered my ship closer to your fleet in hopes that this message will get through loud and clear. We are Starfleet. Under Starfleet Order 20, we are going to perform a search and seizure on your ship, like it or not. And just so you know? Its much easier if you are willing."
USS Kent
Marine Barracks
O'Grady was monitoring the situation from the Marine Command Room, as could feel the tension mount as it did before every battle.
He had two full squads of Marines standing by in full combat gear; battle armour including tactical helmets (full face coverings with running tactical readouts) and phase rifles, holsters and packs full of ancillary gear for breaching doors and fast-fortifying an area. The makings of an efficient boarding party for a hostile vessel.
Rules of Engagement for this operation were standard peace-time security: protect yourself and your squad at all times, do not engage unless provoked or ordered.
O'Grady was outfitted in similar dress, shoulder flashes indicating his position as Platoon Sergeant. Currently his helmet and and gloves were removed so he could properly manipulate his computer station.
=/\=O'Grady to the Bridge. Glinn, looks like you've got a pressure cooker starting up there. Boarding party is ready on standby awaiting your signal. =/\=
The Marines were a mostly ancillary department of Starfleet, although they never lost their dedication or valour, until the Dominion War where the marines were again, and have since been, at the forefront of tactical and strategic operations.
--
G.Sgt Jack O'Grady
The Glinn smiled to himself. He decided, just at that moment that he liked O'Grady. The Sergeant knew who to listen too, and seemed perfectly capable of doing his job.
=/\= Bridge to O'Grady. We're still a bit far away, waiting to get closer before we try forced transport. I would rather them let us on willingly. To save face and everything.=/\=
USS Kent
Bridge
The Ops officer spoke up. "Glinn, we're entering phaser range of the Breen frigate. No... wait, they're hailing us, and the frigate has lowered shields. The transport still has shields up, just strongly enough to prevent transport. The captain of the frigate wants to negotiate."
"Onscreen."
The Ops officer nodded, tapping his console, and a moment later the image of a Breen appeared. The Breen spoke, a serious of incomprehensible sounds, and the Ops officer blinked. "Looks like the universal translator module for the Breen language wasn't installed... fixing that now." A moment later, the Breen captain's words become intelligible.
"...We do not recognize the Federation's authority in this region; however, practicality requires that we submit to his entirely illegal search. However, there are conditions... you will transmit to us a list of potential contraband, and you will seize nothing that you do not place on that list. We will not allow Federation soldiers to simply take what they wish from one of our warships."
Glinn Katell Danar smirks at the Breen shown on the viewscreen, his lips curling up just at the corners of his mouth. "One change to your demands. I will not transmit the list, I will have it with me and will present it to you once I am on board."
The conversation ended, and the Breen faded from the screen.
=/\= Bridge to O'Grady. Meet me in transporter room 2 in T minus Ten minutes. We'll be boarding soon.=/\=
USS Kent
O'Grady made his way to transporter room 2, helmet cradled under his arm. His boarding parties were ready to go on the large troop transport pads located in the marine barracks. Converted cargo transport pads had been commissioned by starfleet to allow the accurate transport of troop compliments in full without the need for delayed arrival in waves. Normally Jack would transport in with his marines, but the Glinn had ordered him to the transporter room, so that's where he would be.
--
G.Sgt Jack O'Grady
The Breen Frigate Kar'rith'inar (Ice)
Transporter Room
For a race as isolationist as the Breen, it was surprising how hospitable they kept their ships to aliens. The transporter room was a rather nippy 10 Celsius, much cooler than most humanoids found comfortable but far warmer than the Breen were rumored to be able to survive without their refrigeration suits.
It was in the refrigeration suit that the Breen commander greeted the Sergeant and the Glinn. "Threx'par, yotta ina!no." The universal translators caught up a moment later. "Welcome, Federation guests. Let us accomplish what you wish done with expediency, so that we may see you on your way sooner rather than later. Do you have your list?"
Katell Danar greeted the Breen with a smile that was as Icy as their homeworld probably was. For appearance sake, he had come just in his Cardassian uniform, his rank shown proudly on the collar. Even though he was freezing and quite uncomfortable, he dared not show it to the Breen. To anyone. As XO of the Kent, he had to keep up appearances.
“The list is right here.” He hands the Breen a PADD. The list included things such as 'Sentient Beings being held against their will', illegal narcotics, illegal weaponry, and recent travel records as well as transportation records. “Now, lets be quick about this. I'm sure you have. ..”He pauses, just to smile again the corners of his mouth curling up somewhat cruelly. “.. nothing to hide.”
The Breen commander looked over the list, his expression hidden behind his coldsuit's helmet. "I will have to request the right to hand over travel records from my superiors, and there will be no sensor logs included... those would contain delicate information about uncontested Breen space, and with the current standing between the Federation and the Breen, you can understand my reluctance to give you information from which our fleet placements and interior supply lines could be derived. The rest of this will be no problem; we are carrying none of these things."
The Glinn's smile continued. “Of course. Now, come on, show me around.”
The Breen lifted a hand, giving a stiff gesture to his men, who moved into an encircling formation around him. One or two of the Breen soldiers cast gazes at O'Grady and his Marines, as if sizing them up. The Breen commander spoke more quietly. "There will be war, Cardassian. It is unavoidable now... the Federation and the Confederacy have both given everything they are willing, and our differences are still irreconcilable. Humans and Breen will die... but today, I will remember."
Katell raised a brow at the Breen as he finishes speaking. “Please tell me I'm wrong, and that isn't a threat I heard? I am just executing orders, nothing more.” He said with a tone so obviously pleasant that it was quite clear it wasn't pleasant at all. “Now, I have a question for you. Do Breen sweat?”
"Yes, but not water... we secrete a liquid that includes ethylene glycol and methyl alcohol, which remains liquid at the temperatures to which we are accustomed. It would be quite toxic to you, or to the humans; your sweat is equally toxic to us. And it was no threat... simply an observation. Today may be the last time that humans step foot on a Breen ship, or the opposite, without phaser fire being unavoidable. We are living in history."
Katell nods. “Yes, It is unavoidable. At this point at least. Now, your cargo holds please? Its a bit chilly in here, and would much like to return to my ship.” He glances back towards O'Grady to make sure the Marines were keeping up.
The Breen nodded, stepping into a large chamber. "This is the main cargo bay. There are further bays on Deck 2 in sections A and C, as well as on Deck 5 in section D. Your men may move about the ship as they see fit, except that they will not enter Weapon Storage, Main Engineering, or the Main Bridge. This is a military vessel, and there are secrets that I must keep even when I attempt to cooperate."
Katell nods, and with a motion of his hand he signals the marines to go about the ship. "If I hear that any of O'Grady's men have disobeyed, there will be consequences. Now lets see." The Cardassian began to move around the cargo bay, as if browsing a store. However, his sharp Cardassian eyes missed nothing. "So tell me, why are you in this system? The Arethi aren't very friendly from what I've heard."
"We were sent to escort the transport through the contested zone. I was told that he was going to be transporting benamite crystals from the Turath System, but he insisted on a stop at Areth. I assume that he was going to ask to use my men for a slave raid; I intended to refuse. The mission we were given left no room for profiteering."
This was interesting news to the Cardassian's ears. "Is that so? Who is that he you speak of? Perhaps he is the one we should seek out"
"The transport commander. He is a man who has never held a weapon, but profits from the work of those who do. I hold him in little regard, yet he holds influence on the homeworld for his wealth. He is Breen, but acts as if he were a Ferengi."
"Interesting. At least that explains why the transport has fled."
-Joint Post
Trailfoot and Myridd
Breen Frigate
The inspection did not take long, and one of the Marines returned to Danar and O'Grady. "Sir, Sergeant... we're done. No slaves, no crystals. One modified disruptor illegal under Federation Weapons Transport Code 225 found under a soldier's bunk, no reason to think his superiors knew anything about it, and they've arrested him for hiding a weapon on-ship. I don't think there's anything to find here."
The Planet
As Grace waited in her runabout, her comm system lit up. "Ensign, this is Scott. Detecting something odd with that dwarf planet. The neutrino emissions are near it, now, and it's... the planet's moving. I'm pretty sure somebody's got a tractor beam on it. Kent is further from it than we are, and Glinn Danar's not returned to ship yet... looks like you're officer in charge for this one."
The Capital
Marian sat on a bench outside the offices of one of the lawmakers, gesturing for Kaida to join her. "I'm hoping I can talk them into the deal..." She trailed off as an ear-splitting claxon hit, its frequency far higher than human ears find comfortable. Covering her ears, she tapped her commbadge. "Is there trouble in the city?"
The voice of one of the Marines answered. "Demonstrators moved into place outside the Capitol Building about fifteen minutes ago, Captain... things just turned violent. You need to stay put; the government's soldiers are holding them off for the moment being."
Breen Ship
Glinn Katell Danar nodded to the soldier. "Than lets not take up any more of their precious time." He smirked at the Breen Captain he had been talking too. ". . Perhaps when we meet again, it will be under .. better circumstances. I know that your prediction is likely to come true, but do not fault me for being a dreamer and hoping you are wrong."
And with that, the Cardassian waved his hand and lead his people back to the teleporter room to be teleported back to the Kent.
On Planet
Saving Grace did not pause for a moment to ponder what was said over the runabouts communicator, instead she hopped into her seat in the Kyle, tapped the helm in a few choice spots, and guided her ship towards the dwarf planet's location.
The Capital
"Acknowledged, Private. Keep your heads down." Kaida's crisp, level voice cut into the comm circuit as she tapped her own badge. "I have the Captain."
With effortless speed the pistol on her right hip appeared in her hand, the ornate decorative carvings on its grip folded into her hand and the smooth iridium shine of its barrel suddenly the farthest thing in the world from decorative. "We need to get you under cover, ma'am. Right now." Her eyes were the same gunmetal shade as the weapon in her hand, and there was battle armor under the respect in her tone. "If you'll come with me?"
The Capital
Marian nodded to Kaida. Violent protests... likely too much to assume they're airing long-held grievances over tax policy. No... the Federation is here, and some group among the locals don't much like it. She tapped her commbadge, moving with Kaida, wishing she'd brought a phaser of her own even if she didn't expect it would do her much good. "O'Rourke to Kent... we're having a bit of local color down here. Hold position for now, but an extraction might be necessary later."
Space
As the Kyle approached the dwarf planet, Grace's instruments gave her more information about the situation there... a tractor beam was indeed applied to the planet, though it was nowhere near powerful enough to properly tow the massive object, and thus flickered in and out of existance intermittently. The beam was being emitted by a small ship, likely no more than twice the size of Grace's runabout, which was flickering in and out of being cloaked, obscuring further gathering of information.
Space:
Saving Grace pondered the dwarf planet as it was towed along. Funny way to steal something. She thought. Especially when you didn't bring a tractor beam strong enough and there is obviously a Starship in orbit.
Her fingers skillfully hit a few places on her dash and attempted to hail the ship. “I'll just have to remind them what a bad idea this is. I'm the only one in a position to do so.” Saving Grace couldn't hide the grin on her face. This would be fun.
A moment later a Ferengi appeared on the viewscreen, sitting rather calmly given that he faced a Federation combat runabout in an unarmed freighter. He was handsome, by Ferengi standards - teeth sharpened to perfect points, saucerlike ears with long lobes. "I am Peng of the Ferengi salvage vessel and trader Profit's Kiss. How may I assist you, Starfleet runabout?"
Ferengi! She thought, fighting to contain a chuckle. Good thing he's good looking. Haven't seen lobes that symmetrical in quite awhile.
“Greetings, Peng. I am Ensign Saving Grace of the USS Kent, currently piloting her runabout, the Kyle. I thought I should inform you that you are currently towing what appears to be a small planetoid and I don't believe it belongs to you.”
"On every one of those notes, Ensign Grace, you would be correct. I am indeed stealing a dwarf planet, and you have indeed caught me. Further, being as I am trapped between your runabout and your starship, flight is not exactly an option to me either. I had hoped that the distraction provided by the arrival of the Breen and the sheer audacity of what I was trying would protect me; it seems they have not." The Ferengi gave a despondant gesture not entirely matched by his facial expression. "Alas, it seems I am defeated."
Grace chuckled. “Somehow I doubt you feel that way. I know Ferengi. And they wouldn't of thought of doing something this risky unless there is heavy profit involved. Answer me this. Why are you stealing this hunk of rock? I doubt you could fit it in you ship.” She grinned, looking at the Ferengi, obviously entertained.
"No, actually, my plan was to hide it... move it to the Trojan field of the sixth planet, where it would go unnoticed long enough for me to purchase a ship powerful enough to remove it from the system entirely." Peng shrugged. "Now, it seems all I can hope for is that the finder's fee exceeds my bail for the attempt at taking it."
The chameloid girl raised an eyebrow and leaned back in her seat, crossing her arms. “Well, once you are in our custody, we can see what we can do about lowering the bail for some information on who hired you, or why this hunk of rock is worth stealing.” She had dealt with ferengi before, but she has never met one this... calm.
Peng nodded. "Fair enough. Just let the record state that I was entirely willing to cooperate once it became obvious that I had lost." He shrugged. "Could have bought myself a whole Class M moon with what this thing would have brought me... Federation would have profited too. Doubt the natives'll offer Starfleet prices to match mine."
Grace nodded her head. “Probably not. I am going to beam you aboard, you and your crew. The Kent will swing about and do to your ship what you were doing to the planetoid.” She tapped a few places, initalizing the transporter.
“Tell me, Peng. Do you play Tongo?” She asks as the familiar blue glow engulfs Peng and his crew.
"More a go man myself... I believe luck has much less influence on the Great River than skill. But I know tongo, and it's been a while since I've faced a non-Ferengi opponent." He stepped off the runabout's transporter pad without missing a beat in his speech from the bridge of his own ship. "If you have a wheel, I'd be glad to play you." Glancing to his men, he gestured to the benches in the rear of the runabout, where they immediately went.
“I have one back in my quarters on the Kent. I could bring it to your holding cell to pass the time.” Grace replied, glancing up at the Ferengi as he joined her up in the runabout's cockpit.
A few moments later, and she was heading towards the Kent, sending out a hail to them.
USS Kent
Just than, Glinn Danar and the marines had transported back onto the Kent, and the Cardassian was about to answer back to Captain O'Rouke when he stepped onto the bridge and the communications office brought Grace and Peng onto the screen.
Glinn Danar glanced at the Marines. “Form an extraction team. Make it two. In case the Captain needs us.” He than turns to Grace and Peng on the screen. He looks at the Ferengi with a cool, hard stare.
“. . . . . .”He stays quiet for a moment, gritting his teeth. The expression on his face made it clear that he was trying to swallow the harsh words that he wanted to say. “. . .Permission Granted. Dock the Kyle, and the suitable quarters are arranged. . .” He forced himself to look away before adding a begrudged “Good Job Ensign.”
Grace beamed momentarily, and than focused on docking the Kyle.
-Joint Post
Trailfoot and Katell Danar
USS Kent, The Brig
Ensign Saving Grace headed down to the brig shortly after Peng and the others had been imprisoned. In her arms she carried her personal tongo wheel. After giving a smile to the security office in command of the brig, and who had been looking at her like she was slightly off her rocker, Grace came to a stop outside of Peng's cell.
"Peng. I've got the wheel, so I brought it for you and your crew. Perhaps something to entertain yourself during your wait." She flashed him a grin. "I've got to get back to the planet. Never know when the Captain might need me."
USS Kent
Brig
Peng grinned. "Thank you, Ensign. In return for this, I'll give you something." He took the wheel and placed it on the floor. "Focus your scans on the dwarf planet 3.7 kilometers below the surface. There are sensor buffers there to prevent you from finding anything, but I'm certain your Federation scientists can figure out a way past them, eh?" He shrugged. "Since you won't let me keep what's there, it seems that if you can find it, you deserve it."
Planetside
Stone rattled on steel, and a moment later the distinctive sound of glass shattering carried down the gallery-like corridor in which the two Federation officers ahd taken cover. Leaning out from behind the table she'd overturned, Kaida eyeballed the crowd outside before sliding back under cover and brushing a hand over the reciever of her pistol to make sure it was still ready. That done, she tilted her head and crooked a small smile at her Captain. "An interesting vaction spot." She paused for a beat, then sobered.
"They seem to be getting more excited out there. What I can decrypt off the local government network doesn't sound as though the security people down here are feeling very comfortable."
Marian glanced out, not sticking her head out from under cover. "I admit, I'm not usually caught in these situations. Should we be moving further into the building, away from the outside walls?
"Yes and no." Half-closing her eyes, Kaida sliced into the building security system and got a good look at the crowd using the local visual sensors. Big. That's not good. "On the one hand, it reduces the chances that if they rush, I'll have to shoot some of them. On the other, deeper into the building means further from possible reinforcement or evacuation if something goes wrong. I would't want our Marines to have to fight their way in through the guts of the building and then out again if they need to pull us out. Add the possiblity that one of them might get lucky with a rock, or be holding something heavier in the cover of the crowd waiting for the sight of a Starfleet uniform, and tactically we're about as well off here as we would be anywhere."
Marian nodded, considering. "Are our people outside the building out of the way of the crowd?"
"I've been in tac-com contact with the ground team - it's easier and more secure than a voice transmission. They've set up in some of the buildings overlooking the area, and they can provide us cover fire if we need it, but they're out line of sight for now and working to say that way."
Marian nodded. "Good. We don't need Starfleet phasers involved in this if it can be avoided."
"Yes, ma'am." Kaida nodded, though she kept her own weapon out and ready. She actually hesitated a moment - unusual for her, but the question in her mind wasn't one she would ever have asked a Lagashi superior officer. Still... Federation rules, Terran rules, were different. "Your first time under fire, Captain?"
Marian shook her head. "Ran into some trouble in the Rondak sector... Captain Abrams held his cup in a way that implied that he wanted to do lewd things to the High Regent's daughter, and the Regent replied by ordering the execution of the Federation delegation."
"Held his cup?" Kaida's eyebrow rose slightly. "Remind me never to drink anything in the Rondak sector if I can help it. Or take my children there. I imagine you had an exciting time getting out of there."
Marian nodded. "The fighting only really lasted a minute or so... the ship was in transporter range, and they didn't have transport inhibitor technology." She winced at the sound of another window breaking.
Instinctively, the younger woman reached over with one hand and touched Marian's shoulder in reassurance - though she didn't lower the weapon in her other hand. "Your security is the top of the priority queue, ma'am. If it comes to it, I will get you out of her in one piece."
Marian nodded. "Should we signal the Kyle for a beamout?"
"Depends." The combat training in Kadia's brain was firmly recommending she do exactly that, but she made herself take a breath and think like an explorer for a moment instead of a soldier. "How much credibility will it cost you with the local government if we run?"
Marian shrugged. "Nowhere near as much as us having to shoot our way out of here might."
"Point." Kaida took another breath, slowly pushing the air in and out of her lungs, and checked the security monitors again. "Have them set it up. If they rush us, I'll shoot to wound until Kyle can execute."
Marian nodded, tapping her commbadge. "O'Rourke to Kyle. Two for beamup as soon as you reach transporter range."
After leaving Peng and recieving the information about the drawf planet, Ensign Grace had returned to the Kyle and was on her way back to the planet when she recieved the Captain's message. Immediately, she sent a message in return. "Affirmative Captain. Will begin transport in 3. . 2. .1."
Marian and Kaida materialized, still prone from having taken cover, and Marian rose to her feet. "Good timing, Ensign. What developments do we have in space?"
"My Pleasure Captain. As for developments, Glinn Danar is back from his meeting with the Breen and looking a little perplexed so I am not sure how that went. However, while you were gone, I apprehended a ship full of ferengi who were attempting to steal the dwarf planet. The Kent is currently towing their ship until we can either try them or give them to someone who can. The Ferengi captain, Peng, gave me information about what might be found within the dwarf planet. It has an apparent high value, ferengi were after it after all, but also it has several. . dampeners? In place to keep scans from detecting it." Grace said, a wide grin spreading over her face as she spoke. It sounded even better talking about what she had accomplished rather than just thinking about it.
Marian nodded. "We'll have to move the Kent into the system to take a look at the dwarf planet, then. I think it's time I return to the ship... lay in a course for the Kent."
"Of course Captain." Ensign Grace replied as she tapped her console. "How did things go, on planet? It looked as though you were ducking out of site when I beamed you aboard."
"The government is willing to deal. Apparently, some in the capital are less so... there's a riot happening down there. Once the ship is in-system, we'll use her transporters to recover everyone else who's on the surface."
Grace nodded as she continued to guide the Kyle back towards the Kent. "At least they are willing to deal. I am glad the mission was successful, I must admit I tend to fall a bit short at diplomacy." She thought for a moment, than chuckled. "except it seems with Ferengi fugitives."
Marian nodded. "Let's just hope the government is still in place when this mission is finished."
Soon, the Kyle was boarding the Kent and Glinn Danar was there waiting for them to exit the shuttle. "Captain." He offered his hand to help her out of the shuttle.
Marian took the Cardassian's hand and stepped out of the runabout. "Thank you." She tapped her comm badge. "O'Rourke to Bridge. Course for the dwarf planet, one-half impulse." She then started toward the turbolift.
