ST: Independence 08 "Way of the Gun"
- Thread starter Dnoth
- Start date
CHAPTER 12
Supplemental
USS Philadelphia
Main Bridge
Captain Dalton Russell looked over to his comm. officer and swiped his hand across his throat. The audio was muted and the visual display dimmed, indicating they could no longer be seen by the bridge crew of the Independence.
Russell looked at Visala in a near panic, “They know about what we did!”
The Andorian Section 31 agent coolly responded, “It’s a complication, but not the end of the world.”
“Well, what do we do?” begged Russell, as if he were a child that didn’t know how to button his pants.
“Of all the ships in the fleet,” Collins somberly observed, “why’d it have to be a Courageous-class?”
“What do you mean?” asked Visala.
He stood up and walked over, “There are only three starship classes that could possibly take on a Sovereign: Prometheus, Defiant, and Courageous.”
“That’s a moot point, commander,” said Russell. He looked over at Visala, “I won’t fire on another starship.”
The female agent considered for a moment. “I agree, captain. I would rather avoid a fire fight.” She stepped around in a small circle, “I can’t use my 31 override remotely,” then, she spun around, “but we can do the next best thing.”
*****
The main viewer went to a standby screen. Windslow immediately pointed out to his captain, “If he really did destroy that ship at New Sydney, we need to take control of the Philadelphia .”
Sintina nodded in agreement, “I’m not leaving unless captain…” She huffed and quickly referenced a control panel near her chair, “…unless Captain Russell is in our brig.”
“But how can we get control without…” Ethan stopped mid sentence. He and Sintina shared a sudden moment of lucidity.
Less than a month ago, the Independence was along the Federation-Alshain border. Captain Picard of the Enterprise pulled a dirty trick, as far as Sintina was concerned. He temporarily disabled her ship via the prefix codes. He claimed it was a ‘delicate situation,’… ‘as if I can’t be delicate,’ fumed Aurelia. It was a gambit that ultimately worked out, but it frustrated her to no end.
Aurelia spoke for both of them, “Oh hell, not again.”
The first officer resumed his station at ops. He franticly began to brainstorm for countermeasures.
The captain solicited the science officer, “Tang, can you think of anyway to stop them?”
The junior lieutenant’s first reaction was to say ‘Well, if it were easy to bypass, it wouldn’t much good, now would it?,’ but his only outward response was a look of futility.
Having her answer from her science division, she moved to operations, hoping to hear better news. “Windslow?” she inquired, with her hope fading.
“I’m doing the only thing I can think of,” reported the first officer, as his hands expertly flew over the controls.
“Which is?”
Windslow explained without making eye contact. “I’m shutting down our entire transceiver array, including the back-ups. No signals will get in or out of our computer.”
The holo-projected viewer dissolved, leaving the bulkhead behind it.
Sintina hovered over Ethan, “How can we communicate with the Philly?”
Only a hint of annoyance could be heard in the first officer’s voice. Leave it to Aurelia to find a flaw in his plan. He rejoined, “You asked for a solution. I didn’t say it was perfect.”
Tang chimed in, “We’re close enough; our combadges will be able to communicate ship to ship.”
Sintina allowed herself to breathe. She looked around at her bridge crew with a mischievous grin, “Well, at least now, he can’t pull a Picard on us.”
*****
The holo-screen on the Philadelphia dematerialized the same time its counterpart did on the Indy. Collins stood behind tactical. He was in the process of recalling the prefix codes for their opponent. Visala and Russell idly stood over his shoulders when the darkened display disappeared.
The Andorian was the first to ask the obvious, “What happened to the screen?”
Russell moved to the communications station; Collins sought his own answers at the free standing station. He reported, “I can’t make a connection. It’s like their ship isn’t even there.”
“Captain Aurelia to Captain Russell.”
Dalton stopped consulting his communications officer. He stood, looked around for a moment and said in the air, “This is Russell.”
“Captain Russell, respond,” again came the voice.
Visala rolled her eyes, “It’s your combadge.” She added, “…idiot,” under her breath.
The captain attempted to regain some dignity as he tapped his breast, “Russell here, captain.”
“I’m so sorry,” began Aurelia, in an obviously disingenuous tone, “our whole communications system just had a catastrophic failure.” She could hardly continue without breaking out into laughter, “You know how these new ships always have some gremlins.”
The captain of the Philadelphia bit his bottom lip as he observed Visala’s reaction. He responded, “Understood, standby,” as he tapped off the line.
“Clever, little bitch,” shot the agent.
“Now what?” inquired Russell, to the real commander of the boat.
Collins knew the next logical step and offered, “If we manually target the torpedoes, they would have less time to react.”
Russell seemed aghast. He desperately held on to his last fiber of self-respect. He flared at Collins, “You’re talking about destroying another Starfleet ship, commander!”
Before Collins could react, Visala jumped in, “Yes he is. I’d prefer to avoid it, but Captain Aurelia isn’t giving us any alternative.” She observed both Collins and Russell. The first officer backed down from an aggressive posture. Dalton shrank in compliance. Only then did she order, “Captain, launch your attack.”
Captain Russell’s last attempt at integrity was diminutive and pathetic. He leaned in and pleaded, “Please, don’t ask me to do this.”
The thirty-one agent got even closer. She decided it would be the final time she would remind him of his place, “I’m not asking. You know what will happen if you don’t follow my orders.”
Dalton’s eyes began to well. He made an effort to shake it off before addressing his first officer. “Mr. Collins,” he said, “proceed.”
Zack Collins smirked as if dismissing a social reject. His voice indicated as much, “Yes sir.”
END OF CHAPTER 12
Supplemental
USS Philadelphia
Main Bridge
Captain Dalton Russell looked over to his comm. officer and swiped his hand across his throat. The audio was muted and the visual display dimmed, indicating they could no longer be seen by the bridge crew of the Independence.
Russell looked at Visala in a near panic, “They know about what we did!”
The Andorian Section 31 agent coolly responded, “It’s a complication, but not the end of the world.”
“Well, what do we do?” begged Russell, as if he were a child that didn’t know how to button his pants.
“Of all the ships in the fleet,” Collins somberly observed, “why’d it have to be a Courageous-class?”
“What do you mean?” asked Visala.
He stood up and walked over, “There are only three starship classes that could possibly take on a Sovereign: Prometheus, Defiant, and Courageous.”
“That’s a moot point, commander,” said Russell. He looked over at Visala, “I won’t fire on another starship.”
The female agent considered for a moment. “I agree, captain. I would rather avoid a fire fight.” She stepped around in a small circle, “I can’t use my 31 override remotely,” then, she spun around, “but we can do the next best thing.”
*****
The main viewer went to a standby screen. Windslow immediately pointed out to his captain, “If he really did destroy that ship at New Sydney, we need to take control of the Philadelphia .”
Sintina nodded in agreement, “I’m not leaving unless captain…” She huffed and quickly referenced a control panel near her chair, “…unless Captain Russell is in our brig.”
“But how can we get control without…” Ethan stopped mid sentence. He and Sintina shared a sudden moment of lucidity.
Less than a month ago, the Independence was along the Federation-Alshain border. Captain Picard of the Enterprise pulled a dirty trick, as far as Sintina was concerned. He temporarily disabled her ship via the prefix codes. He claimed it was a ‘delicate situation,’… ‘as if I can’t be delicate,’ fumed Aurelia. It was a gambit that ultimately worked out, but it frustrated her to no end.
Aurelia spoke for both of them, “Oh hell, not again.”
The first officer resumed his station at ops. He franticly began to brainstorm for countermeasures.
The captain solicited the science officer, “Tang, can you think of anyway to stop them?”
The junior lieutenant’s first reaction was to say ‘Well, if it were easy to bypass, it wouldn’t much good, now would it?,’ but his only outward response was a look of futility.
Having her answer from her science division, she moved to operations, hoping to hear better news. “Windslow?” she inquired, with her hope fading.
“I’m doing the only thing I can think of,” reported the first officer, as his hands expertly flew over the controls.
“Which is?”
Windslow explained without making eye contact. “I’m shutting down our entire transceiver array, including the back-ups. No signals will get in or out of our computer.”
The holo-projected viewer dissolved, leaving the bulkhead behind it.
Sintina hovered over Ethan, “How can we communicate with the Philly?”
Only a hint of annoyance could be heard in the first officer’s voice. Leave it to Aurelia to find a flaw in his plan. He rejoined, “You asked for a solution. I didn’t say it was perfect.”
Tang chimed in, “We’re close enough; our combadges will be able to communicate ship to ship.”
Sintina allowed herself to breathe. She looked around at her bridge crew with a mischievous grin, “Well, at least now, he can’t pull a Picard on us.”
*****
The holo-screen on the Philadelphia dematerialized the same time its counterpart did on the Indy. Collins stood behind tactical. He was in the process of recalling the prefix codes for their opponent. Visala and Russell idly stood over his shoulders when the darkened display disappeared.
The Andorian was the first to ask the obvious, “What happened to the screen?”
Russell moved to the communications station; Collins sought his own answers at the free standing station. He reported, “I can’t make a connection. It’s like their ship isn’t even there.”
“Captain Aurelia to Captain Russell.”
Dalton stopped consulting his communications officer. He stood, looked around for a moment and said in the air, “This is Russell.”
“Captain Russell, respond,” again came the voice.
Visala rolled her eyes, “It’s your combadge.” She added, “…idiot,” under her breath.
The captain attempted to regain some dignity as he tapped his breast, “Russell here, captain.”
“I’m so sorry,” began Aurelia, in an obviously disingenuous tone, “our whole communications system just had a catastrophic failure.” She could hardly continue without breaking out into laughter, “You know how these new ships always have some gremlins.”
The captain of the Philadelphia bit his bottom lip as he observed Visala’s reaction. He responded, “Understood, standby,” as he tapped off the line.
“Clever, little bitch,” shot the agent.
“Now what?” inquired Russell, to the real commander of the boat.
Collins knew the next logical step and offered, “If we manually target the torpedoes, they would have less time to react.”
Russell seemed aghast. He desperately held on to his last fiber of self-respect. He flared at Collins, “You’re talking about destroying another Starfleet ship, commander!”
Before Collins could react, Visala jumped in, “Yes he is. I’d prefer to avoid it, but Captain Aurelia isn’t giving us any alternative.” She observed both Collins and Russell. The first officer backed down from an aggressive posture. Dalton shrank in compliance. Only then did she order, “Captain, launch your attack.”
Captain Russell’s last attempt at integrity was diminutive and pathetic. He leaned in and pleaded, “Please, don’t ask me to do this.”
The thirty-one agent got even closer. She decided it would be the final time she would remind him of his place, “I’m not asking. You know what will happen if you don’t follow my orders.”
Dalton’s eyes began to well. He made an effort to shake it off before addressing his first officer. “Mr. Collins,” he said, “proceed.”
Zack Collins smirked as if dismissing a social reject. His voice indicated as much, “Yes sir.”
END OF CHAPTER 12
Quick thinking on Widslow's part. And Capt. Russell has shown himself to be a yellow weasel. Too bad he didn't eat that phaser when he had the chance. I'm beginning to visualize Collins as Arnold Schwarzenegger in the first "Terminator" movie - relentless and nearly indestructible.
Hopefully Captain Aurelia or Commander Windslow figures out the Philly's next, desperate move in time!
Hopefully Captain Aurelia or Commander Windslow figures out the Philly's next, desperate move in time!
Ah, the prefix codes again. I like the reference to DarKush's story and how Aurelia is still upset about it, but I still don't really like the prefix code strategy.
On the other hand the thought that both ship's thought about it at the same time was a great bit of fun ... and Winslow's countermeasure quite ingenious too.
A little nitpick here:
There seems to be some action misssing here. What exactly is Aurelia and Winslow reacting to? We know of course but it isn't clear in the prose.
On the other hand the thought that both ship's thought about it at the same time was a great bit of fun ... and Winslow's countermeasure quite ingenious too.
A little nitpick here:
There seems to be some action misssing here. What exactly is Aurelia and Winslow reacting to? We know of course but it isn't clear in the prose.
Perhaps I should have stated differently.
While thinking of a way to disable the Philly without firing, both Sintina and Ethan realize that Russell is probably thinking the same thing regarding the use of the prefix codes. It had happened to them once before and they didn't want it to happen again.
Sintina's "Oh hell, not again," refers to the previous incident with Picard. Windslow knew exactly what she was referring to and began a countermeasure.
Did they know for sure that Russell would use the prefix codes, no. But Aurelia and Windslow didn't want to take that chance.
While thinking of a way to disable the Philly without firing, both Sintina and Ethan realize that Russell is probably thinking the same thing regarding the use of the prefix codes. It had happened to them once before and they didn't want it to happen again.
Sintina's "Oh hell, not again," refers to the previous incident with Picard. Windslow knew exactly what she was referring to and began a countermeasure.
Did they know for sure that Russell would use the prefix codes, no. But Aurelia and Windslow didn't want to take that chance.
Good installment, and I loved the senior officers scrambling to prevent Philadelphia from using her prefix codes to disable the Independence. I’m glad to see Russell, Collins and their group now facing a stand-up fight with an opponent capable of hurting them back. This is going to be one fierce knock down brawl. 
Nice reference to "Fall Out" and the controversial prefix code scene.
I also liked how Collins was fearful of Visala. It was a nice way of showing how truly dangerous she is.
All in all, another fast paced, well written chapter. I do agree with CeJay though about Sintina/Windslow dialogue about the prefix code though.
I also liked how Collins was fearful of Visala. It was a nice way of showing how truly dangerous she is.
All in all, another fast paced, well written chapter. I do agree with CeJay though about Sintina/Windslow dialogue about the prefix code though.
CHAPTER 13
Supplemental
USS Independence
Main Bridge
Captain Aurelia gazed at the view screen, now showing an image of the Sovereign-class’ aft side. It had been several seconds since the last communication with them but each second was filled with uncertainty. “What’s the status of the Philadelphia?” questioned Aurelia to anyone with relevant information.
D’nas, the Tamarian exchange officer, spoke first, “They’re holding position, bearing 349 mark 8.”
“They are operating at condition green,” reported Virak, the female Vulcan was second-in-command of the security division, “shields and weapons are powered down.”
Sintina stepped closer to the large screen. She watched it intently, wondering what was going on over there. She began to turn to tell Kimula to hail the Delos when a flash of light caught the her eye. She instantly recognized the sphere of strobing light as a quantum torpedo. Time itself slowed. Her only order was, “Guys!”
It was enough. Four torpedoes escaped the aft torpedo launcher of the Philadelphia in rapid succession. Immediately, a field of pulse phaser fire was laid down by the quick response of Virak. It was less intended to inflict damage on the aggressor’s ship and more an attempt to intercept some of the incoming fire.
Simultaneously, Ensign D’nas fired the vessel’s maneuvering thrusters in such a way to create the smallest silhouette possible. The Independence was only eight decks high. So directly facing the attack offered the best protection.
*****
Half-way between the Sovereign and the smaller Courageous-class, the torpedoes and the phaser pulses violently began to share the same space. The first quantum was hit almost immediately; the second, shortly thereafter. Despite the fact that a flurry of pulses flew all around them, the last two torpedoes continued unmolested to their target.
The third torpedo made a glancing wound on the dorsal shields of the still moving Independence. The full brunt of the explosion, however, flew harmlessly into space.
The fourth and final quantum slammed directly into the forward shields, causing a luminescence to appear all around the vessel.
*****
Most of the bridge crew had recovered from one small and another major jolt, when Aurelia ordered, “Report!”
The dark-skinned Vulcan responded with professionalism, “Dorsal shields at 70%, Forward shields at 37%.”
“What the hell are they thinking!” demanded Kimula from her aft station.
Sintina could feel the room. Everyone was obviously distraught and in shock. Aurelia, however, reveled in stressful situations. She always felt most competent as captain when in battle. She was now in her element. She looked into the eyes of each member of her bridge crew as she talked, “Ok everybody, calm down. That was their best shot. Now it’s our game. Let’s show ‘em how the Indy plays!”
Everyone acknowledged in their own way; all somberly refocused on their stations.
She placed a hand on the Tamarian’s shoulder, “D’nas, get in close, get in quick. Don’t give them a chance to use their torpedoes again.”
“Aye, ma’am.”
Then the captain addressed her current tactical officer, “Virak, target their weapons and engines. I don’t want this bastard running when he finds out he’s outclassed.”
“Understood.”
*****
The impulse engines of the Independence glowed a bright red as they came to life. She moved straight for the Philadelphia, pulse and convectional phasers led the way. Unfortunately, the aggressor’s shields had been raised.
Once the gunship was nearly at point blank range, she rotated one hundred-eighty degrees and made a strafing run along the ventral side of the larger ship.
*****
“Aft shields at one-quarter; ventral shields are at sixty percent!” called out Collins above the klaxons.
Visala spoke directly to the first officer at tactical, “Return fire!”
“I am!” spat Collins.
The agent was only slightly intimidated by the outburst.
“They can fly circles around us!” yelled Captain Russell in a delirium. “They’ll take out one system at a time and wear us down!” He grabbed Visala by the sleeve, “We have to stop this, now!”
The Andorian agent clutched the offending hand and twisted it into an arm bar. “You disgust me.” Her powerful release forced him to the deck. She would’ve made a follow up blow, but Collins made an observation.
“The runabout with Uhura on it,” he began, “it’s exposed!”
“Destroy it, now!” ordered the 31 operative.
*****
The assault cruiser was about one-third the beam length of the dreadnought. The Indy came up from the underside of the Sovereign-class; her ventral side faced the enemy through the whole half-loop.
The dreadnought made several hits to the underbelly of the Courgeous-class. Her shields held, however.
In the melee of phaser fire, a single blast was shot, seemingly away from the battle. Its target, the Delos was helpless and exploded in a, quickly vanishing, ball of flame.
*****
“The Delos,” called out Windslow, “it’s gone!”
Kimula paused in her duties. “Karim,” she mourned.
A tight spot of hatred and vengeance formed in Sintina’s gut. Though, they often had disagreements, Karim was the closest thing she had to a friend on the ship. He and Kimula shared a special place in her heart. It was a fondness she didn’t have with the rest of her crew.
There was now only one thing for her to accomplish in life. “We end this, now.” she stated. “D’nas, take us 5 kilometers off their dorsal side. Then, come about; head straight for their port nacelle pylon.” She leaned over to tactical, “Ready quantums and bring the pulse phaser to full charge.”
The Andorian counselor looked forward, “Captain?”
Commander Windslow knew enough to get within whispering range. “Captain, I know you’re upset...”
Sintina jerked her head to face him, “Your damn right I’m upset.”
He continued calmly, “But I think ramming them is a bit premature.”
“Who said anything about ramming?” She took a breath and resumed looking at the view screen, “Don’t worry Ethan, I haven’t gone completely insane with rage.” She turned again. She had cold steel in her eyes, “So don’t you stop me.”
Windslow examined the deck for a moment, then, returned her gaze. He puffed and said, “I’m pleased to know you think I could.” Without waiting for her reaction, he returned to operations.
She watched him walk away. A sense of melancholy briefly hit her. She pushed it away once D’nas began to speak.
“We’re five kilometers out. Coming around,” he reported.
Virak made one eye contact with Aurelia, “Ma’am, might I remind you that our forward shields are very weak.”
“Noted,” said Sintina, by way of dismissing her concern, “target their port pylon with a single quantum, then follow up with all four pulse cannons. Bleed the power cells dry, lieutenant.”
“Understood,” rejoined the Vulcan.
“D’nas,” ordered Aurelia, “take us down right on top of those sons-a-bitches.”
*****
The blade-shaped hull of the USS Independence made a lateral turn and jetted toward its opponent. A blue-white projectile sped out of her. Once it was away, the machine-gun-like action of the pulse phasers began. A steady stream of flashes flew for a full four seconds.
The Philadelphia unleashed its own barrage of phaser fire. The forward shields of the assault cruiser collapsed.
The quantum reached the target first, but only by a fraction of a second. The protective barrier around the Philadelphia blazed at it absorbed the attack.
Then the rain of phased energy came. The first few caused the shields to light up. The defenses quickly gave way. Rounds impacted directly onto the ablative armored hull. The armor, however, offered little resistance as it quickly melted away. The final two seconds worth of the offensive ripped into the support pylon, creating gashes and secondary explosions. Finally, the nacelle separated from the ship.
The Independence passed right where the pylon had been just a fraction of a second before. Its hull grazed the now free floating nacelle; pushing it out of the way.
*****
Chaos broke out on the bridge of the Sovereign-class. The illumination and controls flickered. Two EPS conduits exploded. One was near the engineering station, killing one officer instantly.
Russell examined the bridge through the eyes of panic. “My god, what have I done?” He stumbled in the darkened room to a small arms locker.
Collins saw the movement and pulled a phaser on his captain. He hesitated when he realized the weapon wasn’t being pointed at himself or Visala. He relaxed and turned his attention to his displays.
The distinctive sound and light of a phaser discharge appeared in the dark.
Seconds later, the lighting returned to normal, the sparks subsided, and the bridge calmed. An officer gasped loudly and called for help once she saw her captain.
Visala walked toward the body of Captain Russell. The eyes were wide open and lifeless; a small amount of smoke emanated from his open mouth. She observed the sight dispassionately for a moment. “Just as well,” she commented.
“Despite his cowardice,” said Collins, “his tactical assessment was correct. We can’t win this fight.”
“We already have,” began the Section 31 agent, “Uhura is dead.”
Collins nodded slowly, “Yes, but with the untimely death of our captain, we have an opportunity to get out of this with our skins intact.”
Visala’s antennae perked up, “I’m listening.”
*****
“How bad did we get ‘em?” asked Sintina.
Virak reported, “Approximately half of their weapons are disabled. Their warp drive is off-line. Most of their shields have failed.”
“And how about us?”
“Overall shield strength at 35%, severe hull damage on the forward sections, emergency forcefields in place, three phaser arrays are disabled,” stated the tactical officer.
“Captain Aurelia, this is Commander Zachary Collins of the Philadelphia, please respond.”
She tapped her combadge on, “Where’s Captain Russell, commander?”
“The captain put me and several other officers in the brig a few weeks ago. Some of the younger officers were naïve enough to follow him.”
Sintina shook her head, “What the hell are you talking about, commander?”
Collins delivered his lines with perfection, “Captain Russell had been more and more erratic. Then, at New Sydney, he ordered the destruction of a freighter. It was then that I attempted to relieve him of duty. He resisted. Officers loyal to him locked the other senior officers up. During the battle, we were freed. I’ve assumed command of the ship.”
“And the captain?” asked Aurelia.
“Dead,” rejoined Collins, “He committed suicide before we could subdue him.”
Aurelia put her hands on her hips. The victory seemed so very hollow. Something seemed out of sorts. She attributed her feeling to the fact that she just had a conflict with another Starfleet vessel. It would give an unsettling feeling to anyone. She finally asked, “You’re in full control of the ship?”
“Yes sir, all of Russell’s co-conspirators, including the man responsible for the attack on your runabout, has been placed into custody.”
“Do you have any idea why that man fired on my craft at New Sydney?” asked Sintina.
“I don’t know. As I said, Captain Russell had grown very paranoid. He even said something about a rape. I wish I could be more helpful.”
Captain Aurelia paced the bridge for a moment in an attempt to soak in the situation. “Very well, commander, the Independence will tow you to the nearest Starbase.”
“Yes sir.”
“Captain,” came from the operations station, “the Axanar cargo vessel. It’s gone.”
Her face crunched up, “What do you mean ‘gone?’”
Windslow elaborated with astonishment, “It went to warp. It’s heading on to Sauria.”
Sintina spoke louder, “I thought you got the pilot of that ship, Commander Collins.”
“I can assure you, it’s not him.”
“Who else could it be?” blankly inquired the Andorian junior lieutenant.
A glimmer of hope evolved into a grin on Sintina, “They transported off the Delos and on to that merchant ship when we were fighting.”
Silence came over the comline.
Aurelia continued with a new enthusiasm, “Commander Collins, that escort will have to wait.”
“We’ll be able to limp along in about an hour. We won’t break any speed records, but we could get to Starbase 87.”
“Alright,” said Aurelia, “we’ll catch up as soon as we can.”
“Don’t worry, captain,” reassured Collins, “The ship is in good hands, now.” Then, the channel closed.
“Stand down from red alert,” ordered the captain. She returned to her seat, “Let’s find out what’s going on that’s so damned important.”
END OF CHAPTER 13
Supplemental
USS Independence
Main Bridge
Captain Aurelia gazed at the view screen, now showing an image of the Sovereign-class’ aft side. It had been several seconds since the last communication with them but each second was filled with uncertainty. “What’s the status of the Philadelphia?” questioned Aurelia to anyone with relevant information.
D’nas, the Tamarian exchange officer, spoke first, “They’re holding position, bearing 349 mark 8.”
“They are operating at condition green,” reported Virak, the female Vulcan was second-in-command of the security division, “shields and weapons are powered down.”
Sintina stepped closer to the large screen. She watched it intently, wondering what was going on over there. She began to turn to tell Kimula to hail the Delos when a flash of light caught the her eye. She instantly recognized the sphere of strobing light as a quantum torpedo. Time itself slowed. Her only order was, “Guys!”
It was enough. Four torpedoes escaped the aft torpedo launcher of the Philadelphia in rapid succession. Immediately, a field of pulse phaser fire was laid down by the quick response of Virak. It was less intended to inflict damage on the aggressor’s ship and more an attempt to intercept some of the incoming fire.
Simultaneously, Ensign D’nas fired the vessel’s maneuvering thrusters in such a way to create the smallest silhouette possible. The Independence was only eight decks high. So directly facing the attack offered the best protection.
*****
Half-way between the Sovereign and the smaller Courageous-class, the torpedoes and the phaser pulses violently began to share the same space. The first quantum was hit almost immediately; the second, shortly thereafter. Despite the fact that a flurry of pulses flew all around them, the last two torpedoes continued unmolested to their target.
The third torpedo made a glancing wound on the dorsal shields of the still moving Independence. The full brunt of the explosion, however, flew harmlessly into space.
The fourth and final quantum slammed directly into the forward shields, causing a luminescence to appear all around the vessel.
*****
Most of the bridge crew had recovered from one small and another major jolt, when Aurelia ordered, “Report!”
The dark-skinned Vulcan responded with professionalism, “Dorsal shields at 70%, Forward shields at 37%.”
“What the hell are they thinking!” demanded Kimula from her aft station.
Sintina could feel the room. Everyone was obviously distraught and in shock. Aurelia, however, reveled in stressful situations. She always felt most competent as captain when in battle. She was now in her element. She looked into the eyes of each member of her bridge crew as she talked, “Ok everybody, calm down. That was their best shot. Now it’s our game. Let’s show ‘em how the Indy plays!”
Everyone acknowledged in their own way; all somberly refocused on their stations.
She placed a hand on the Tamarian’s shoulder, “D’nas, get in close, get in quick. Don’t give them a chance to use their torpedoes again.”
“Aye, ma’am.”
Then the captain addressed her current tactical officer, “Virak, target their weapons and engines. I don’t want this bastard running when he finds out he’s outclassed.”
“Understood.”
*****
The impulse engines of the Independence glowed a bright red as they came to life. She moved straight for the Philadelphia, pulse and convectional phasers led the way. Unfortunately, the aggressor’s shields had been raised.
Once the gunship was nearly at point blank range, she rotated one hundred-eighty degrees and made a strafing run along the ventral side of the larger ship.
*****
“Aft shields at one-quarter; ventral shields are at sixty percent!” called out Collins above the klaxons.
Visala spoke directly to the first officer at tactical, “Return fire!”
“I am!” spat Collins.
The agent was only slightly intimidated by the outburst.
“They can fly circles around us!” yelled Captain Russell in a delirium. “They’ll take out one system at a time and wear us down!” He grabbed Visala by the sleeve, “We have to stop this, now!”
The Andorian agent clutched the offending hand and twisted it into an arm bar. “You disgust me.” Her powerful release forced him to the deck. She would’ve made a follow up blow, but Collins made an observation.
“The runabout with Uhura on it,” he began, “it’s exposed!”
“Destroy it, now!” ordered the 31 operative.
*****
The assault cruiser was about one-third the beam length of the dreadnought. The Indy came up from the underside of the Sovereign-class; her ventral side faced the enemy through the whole half-loop.
The dreadnought made several hits to the underbelly of the Courgeous-class. Her shields held, however.
In the melee of phaser fire, a single blast was shot, seemingly away from the battle. Its target, the Delos was helpless and exploded in a, quickly vanishing, ball of flame.
*****
“The Delos,” called out Windslow, “it’s gone!”
Kimula paused in her duties. “Karim,” she mourned.
A tight spot of hatred and vengeance formed in Sintina’s gut. Though, they often had disagreements, Karim was the closest thing she had to a friend on the ship. He and Kimula shared a special place in her heart. It was a fondness she didn’t have with the rest of her crew.
There was now only one thing for her to accomplish in life. “We end this, now.” she stated. “D’nas, take us 5 kilometers off their dorsal side. Then, come about; head straight for their port nacelle pylon.” She leaned over to tactical, “Ready quantums and bring the pulse phaser to full charge.”
The Andorian counselor looked forward, “Captain?”
Commander Windslow knew enough to get within whispering range. “Captain, I know you’re upset...”
Sintina jerked her head to face him, “Your damn right I’m upset.”
He continued calmly, “But I think ramming them is a bit premature.”
“Who said anything about ramming?” She took a breath and resumed looking at the view screen, “Don’t worry Ethan, I haven’t gone completely insane with rage.” She turned again. She had cold steel in her eyes, “So don’t you stop me.”
Windslow examined the deck for a moment, then, returned her gaze. He puffed and said, “I’m pleased to know you think I could.” Without waiting for her reaction, he returned to operations.
She watched him walk away. A sense of melancholy briefly hit her. She pushed it away once D’nas began to speak.
“We’re five kilometers out. Coming around,” he reported.
Virak made one eye contact with Aurelia, “Ma’am, might I remind you that our forward shields are very weak.”
“Noted,” said Sintina, by way of dismissing her concern, “target their port pylon with a single quantum, then follow up with all four pulse cannons. Bleed the power cells dry, lieutenant.”
“Understood,” rejoined the Vulcan.
“D’nas,” ordered Aurelia, “take us down right on top of those sons-a-bitches.”
*****
The blade-shaped hull of the USS Independence made a lateral turn and jetted toward its opponent. A blue-white projectile sped out of her. Once it was away, the machine-gun-like action of the pulse phasers began. A steady stream of flashes flew for a full four seconds.
The Philadelphia unleashed its own barrage of phaser fire. The forward shields of the assault cruiser collapsed.
The quantum reached the target first, but only by a fraction of a second. The protective barrier around the Philadelphia blazed at it absorbed the attack.
Then the rain of phased energy came. The first few caused the shields to light up. The defenses quickly gave way. Rounds impacted directly onto the ablative armored hull. The armor, however, offered little resistance as it quickly melted away. The final two seconds worth of the offensive ripped into the support pylon, creating gashes and secondary explosions. Finally, the nacelle separated from the ship.
The Independence passed right where the pylon had been just a fraction of a second before. Its hull grazed the now free floating nacelle; pushing it out of the way.
*****
Chaos broke out on the bridge of the Sovereign-class. The illumination and controls flickered. Two EPS conduits exploded. One was near the engineering station, killing one officer instantly.
Russell examined the bridge through the eyes of panic. “My god, what have I done?” He stumbled in the darkened room to a small arms locker.
Collins saw the movement and pulled a phaser on his captain. He hesitated when he realized the weapon wasn’t being pointed at himself or Visala. He relaxed and turned his attention to his displays.
The distinctive sound and light of a phaser discharge appeared in the dark.
Seconds later, the lighting returned to normal, the sparks subsided, and the bridge calmed. An officer gasped loudly and called for help once she saw her captain.
Visala walked toward the body of Captain Russell. The eyes were wide open and lifeless; a small amount of smoke emanated from his open mouth. She observed the sight dispassionately for a moment. “Just as well,” she commented.
“Despite his cowardice,” said Collins, “his tactical assessment was correct. We can’t win this fight.”
“We already have,” began the Section 31 agent, “Uhura is dead.”
Collins nodded slowly, “Yes, but with the untimely death of our captain, we have an opportunity to get out of this with our skins intact.”
Visala’s antennae perked up, “I’m listening.”
*****
“How bad did we get ‘em?” asked Sintina.
Virak reported, “Approximately half of their weapons are disabled. Their warp drive is off-line. Most of their shields have failed.”
“And how about us?”
“Overall shield strength at 35%, severe hull damage on the forward sections, emergency forcefields in place, three phaser arrays are disabled,” stated the tactical officer.
“Captain Aurelia, this is Commander Zachary Collins of the Philadelphia, please respond.”
She tapped her combadge on, “Where’s Captain Russell, commander?”
“The captain put me and several other officers in the brig a few weeks ago. Some of the younger officers were naïve enough to follow him.”
Sintina shook her head, “What the hell are you talking about, commander?”
Collins delivered his lines with perfection, “Captain Russell had been more and more erratic. Then, at New Sydney, he ordered the destruction of a freighter. It was then that I attempted to relieve him of duty. He resisted. Officers loyal to him locked the other senior officers up. During the battle, we were freed. I’ve assumed command of the ship.”
“And the captain?” asked Aurelia.
“Dead,” rejoined Collins, “He committed suicide before we could subdue him.”
Aurelia put her hands on her hips. The victory seemed so very hollow. Something seemed out of sorts. She attributed her feeling to the fact that she just had a conflict with another Starfleet vessel. It would give an unsettling feeling to anyone. She finally asked, “You’re in full control of the ship?”
“Yes sir, all of Russell’s co-conspirators, including the man responsible for the attack on your runabout, has been placed into custody.”
“Do you have any idea why that man fired on my craft at New Sydney?” asked Sintina.
“I don’t know. As I said, Captain Russell had grown very paranoid. He even said something about a rape. I wish I could be more helpful.”
Captain Aurelia paced the bridge for a moment in an attempt to soak in the situation. “Very well, commander, the Independence will tow you to the nearest Starbase.”
“Yes sir.”
“Captain,” came from the operations station, “the Axanar cargo vessel. It’s gone.”
Her face crunched up, “What do you mean ‘gone?’”
Windslow elaborated with astonishment, “It went to warp. It’s heading on to Sauria.”
Sintina spoke louder, “I thought you got the pilot of that ship, Commander Collins.”
“I can assure you, it’s not him.”
“Who else could it be?” blankly inquired the Andorian junior lieutenant.
A glimmer of hope evolved into a grin on Sintina, “They transported off the Delos and on to that merchant ship when we were fighting.”
Silence came over the comline.
Aurelia continued with a new enthusiasm, “Commander Collins, that escort will have to wait.”
“We’ll be able to limp along in about an hour. We won’t break any speed records, but we could get to Starbase 87.”
“Alright,” said Aurelia, “we’ll catch up as soon as we can.”
“Don’t worry, captain,” reassured Collins, “The ship is in good hands, now.” Then, the channel closed.
“Stand down from red alert,” ordered the captain. She returned to her seat, “Let’s find out what’s going on that’s so damned important.”
END OF CHAPTER 13
Nicely done. Very well paced action with Collins again showing that he's more than a simple thug--he's a very dangerous, cunning antagonist. Also, we have to remember that Sintina is a young and inexperienced captain. Someone with more seasoning--a Picard, a Glover, probably wouldn't have fallen for it--or at least wouldn't have fallen for it so easily, but because Aurelia is young and still somewhat naive, she fell for Collins' line.
Again, very nicely done.
Again, very nicely done.
Excellent chapter! This had a little bit of everything, great action, pacing, character moments and a terrific ploy to keep all the players in the game. Well except for ill-fated Cpt. Russell that is. I still felt bad for him, I have a thing for tragic characters. I guess he had it coming though.
I don't even blame Aurelia for falling for Collins' deception. It was a good plan and reasonable enough I thought. (As reasonable as a Fed. starship starting shooting at another one that is.)
And this line made me laugh out loud:
Great stuff, keep it coming.
I don't even blame Aurelia for falling for Collins' deception. It was a good plan and reasonable enough I thought. (As reasonable as a Fed. starship starting shooting at another one that is.)
And this line made me laugh out loud:
Great stuff, keep it coming.
CHAPTER 14
Supplemental
Lyaksti'kton (The Saurian Homeworld)
Near the City Square of Nihoor’klem
The amphitheatre, as most of the other buildings in the area, was made of a white sedimentary stone. The presidential candidate had been told she would be speaking at the very same location were the people of Lyaksti’kton declared their first world government over five thousand years ago. It was no small feat to acquire the location.
Retired Admiral Norah Satie’s hair still had a touch of black in it. She wore an extravagant green dress and large earrings. She was reviewing her speech at her lodging, which was a short walk away from the site of her lecture. Her aids: Nellen Tore, a Delbian female, and Sabin Genestra, a Betazoid male; were in the room as well. They were making last minute arrangements.
“I care for the UFP?” began Satie, “‘Care’ seems a bit distant. I’m changing that to ‘love’…maybe I should add, ‘with all my heart.”
Sabin, a middle-aged man who also had grey showing in his thinning hair, glanced over, “The Saurians don’t symbolize love with the heart. The meaning will be lost on them.”
Norah tilted the padd down and looked over it, “What do they relate love with?”
He responded, only slightly embarrassed, “The genitals.”
“Well,” sighed Satie with a reserved grin, “I’m not going to say ‘from the bottom of that.”
Nellen shared a short lived laugh with the others. She was younger than the other two by decades; her brunette hair was worn in cylindrical buns on the back of her head. Many people have labeled both Norah and her as being rather cold emotionally. She felt it was an unfair observation. In public they were both professional and somber. The way it should be, she thought. It didn’t mean they lacked a sense of humor. The perception didn’t excessively bother her. Satie, on the other hand, dealt with such accusations with much less grace.
Tore looked at the chronometer, “We should begin moving to the amphitheatre.”
*****
Visala and Collins retired to the ready room, shortly after the conversation with Captain Aurelia. Visala immediately took up the captain’s chair and put her feet up. Collins was more ridged.
The Section 31 agent stared blankly at the overhead. Her calm, almost quite tone, poorly hid her frustration, “That entire engagement was for nothing.”
The commander’s comment was more pragmatic, “There’ll be an investigation.”
The Andorian took her feet down and sat up, “Just stick to your story, round up a few junior officers and hand them over to security when you arrive at Starbase.” She made a dismissing gesture, “I’ll make sure it’s a whitewash. In a few hours media reports will be singing your praises for saving your ship from an insane, rapist captain.”
If he was comforted, he didn’t show it, “What about Aurelia and the others? What if Uhura and tells them…”
Visala became very somber, “Any protest she raises will fall on deaf ears.” She leaned back and rocked for a moment, “Besides, there is still a good possibility Satie won’t survive.”
Collins pointed out, “It will take some time to track down Uhura again. It was only happenstance that we found out she wasn’t dead in the first place.”
“We don’t necessary have to find Uhura,” countered Visala, “We only have to take out her ability to function.” She grimly added, “And now I know of a captain and crew that operate for her.”
*****
Sabin Genestra and Nellen Tore waited vigilantly out of sight as Norah stepped out from the wings.
The roar of the crowd was deafening as Norah Satie approached the podium. She soaked it all in with decadence; although, outwardly, she attempted to maintain a humble demeanor. After a socially acceptable amount of time, she waved the masses down. The noise subsided.
“Thank you, thank you.” The retired admiral spoke reverently, “My friends, I love the United Federation of Planets. Unfortunately, in the last few years, the UFP has been following the wrong path.
On Earth, there was an empire called Rome. It spread and spread. Its only way to survive was to acquire more land, more resources, and more people. That is was empires do. But that is not the way of the Federation! The United Federation of Planets doesn’t need new members. We need to care the members we already have!” She paused for the applause. “We should be the beacon of light in a chaotic galaxy; once we achieve that, we need not solicit others to join us. They will be coming to us.” Again, she allowed the masses time to adore her. “Yes, the Federation has lost its way, but as president, I will bring us back to the light.”
The crowd blasted her with claps and cheers.
*****
Hec’lem Ulac’dar, a local food merchant, heard the crowd in the sunken theater. He knew Norah Satie had been visiting his planet. He considered himself a rather apolitical person. He was appreciative, however, that her visit brought him more business today.
Hec’lem’s father told him something interesting when Satie began running for office. He told Hec’lem that his grandfather was once sent to prison for some years by Satie’s father, who was had been a judge years earlier.
The merchant dismissed it as a historical footnote. He had never known his grandfather and by all accounts, he probably deserved what he got.
A pedestrian walked up to his cart. “One baked Kumtumus fillet, please.”
Hec’lem gladly began the preparation.
*****
The retired admiral continued her speech. “The Dominion is gone, but because of our foreign policy, we are creating new enemies when we were supposed to be winning hearts and minds. Even our former allies, the Alshain, are becoming more aggressive against us. Any why? …Because the Santiago administration pushed the Federation into a conflict which we had no business being in. We cannot and should not police the Alpha and Beta quadrants.”
*****
“Transporter range in 15 seconds,” reported Nicole Chase from the flight control position of the Axanar freighter.
Ivan and Karim entered the bridge, “The rest of the ship is clear,” he added, “but I wouldn’t go into cargo bay one if I were you.”
Nicole turned back, “Why not?”
“You don’t want to know the answer to that,” commented Bin Nadal.
The elderly Uhura said, “Nicole and me will stay onboard.”
Chase protested, “No! I can help.”
Karim was about ready to wave her along when Uhura spoke.
“We can help better by providing support and keeping a transporter lock on them,” pointed out Nyota. She turned to Bin Nadal and Cherenkov, “Good luck, gentlemen.”
Ivan headed back out. Karim dashed to Nicole. She stood, meant his embrace, and kissed. She whispered into his ear, “Come back safe.”
He let go, “I’m more worried about you, that guy who attacked us has a starship now.”
Nicole chuckled somberly, “Assuming Aurelia left it in one piece.”
Karim returned the smile, “Good point.” Then he turned, and followed Ivan to the transporter room.
*****
“We are putting more resources into the reconstruction of Cardassia Prime than we have put into the Saurian system in 30 years!” declared Satie. Over the approving sounds of the assembled, she added, “And often, those resources are later turned against us by insurgents.”
*****
Two pillars of light appeared in the park, revealing Cherenkov and Bin Nadal. Both immediately began looking for something…anything that seemed out of place.
“I think we can safely eliminate vendors in the north part of the market,” said Ivan.
The Persian curtsied, “Alright, I’ll take south west, you take south east.” With that, the two parted ways.
Ivan was more forceful in his search than Karim. The Russian simply began rummaging through carts as the merchants vehemently protested. Bin Nadal at least attempted to ask permission first.
*****
Hec’lem Ulac’dar saw something out of the corner of his eye. Upon closer inspection it seemed like a dark-haired human was looting another vender. Then, the human moved on to another.
Alarmed, Hec’lem activated a small communications device. His intent was to call the constable. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, a new costumer appeared. He was a Grazerite. The patron didn’t look at his selection. Instead, he simply stated, “Wicked Witch of the West,” and walked away.
END OF CHAPTER 14
Supplemental
Lyaksti'kton (The Saurian Homeworld)
Near the City Square of Nihoor’klem
The amphitheatre, as most of the other buildings in the area, was made of a white sedimentary stone. The presidential candidate had been told she would be speaking at the very same location were the people of Lyaksti’kton declared their first world government over five thousand years ago. It was no small feat to acquire the location.
Retired Admiral Norah Satie’s hair still had a touch of black in it. She wore an extravagant green dress and large earrings. She was reviewing her speech at her lodging, which was a short walk away from the site of her lecture. Her aids: Nellen Tore, a Delbian female, and Sabin Genestra, a Betazoid male; were in the room as well. They were making last minute arrangements.
“I care for the UFP?” began Satie, “‘Care’ seems a bit distant. I’m changing that to ‘love’…maybe I should add, ‘with all my heart.”
Sabin, a middle-aged man who also had grey showing in his thinning hair, glanced over, “The Saurians don’t symbolize love with the heart. The meaning will be lost on them.”
Norah tilted the padd down and looked over it, “What do they relate love with?”
He responded, only slightly embarrassed, “The genitals.”
“Well,” sighed Satie with a reserved grin, “I’m not going to say ‘from the bottom of that.”
Nellen shared a short lived laugh with the others. She was younger than the other two by decades; her brunette hair was worn in cylindrical buns on the back of her head. Many people have labeled both Norah and her as being rather cold emotionally. She felt it was an unfair observation. In public they were both professional and somber. The way it should be, she thought. It didn’t mean they lacked a sense of humor. The perception didn’t excessively bother her. Satie, on the other hand, dealt with such accusations with much less grace.
Tore looked at the chronometer, “We should begin moving to the amphitheatre.”
*****
Visala and Collins retired to the ready room, shortly after the conversation with Captain Aurelia. Visala immediately took up the captain’s chair and put her feet up. Collins was more ridged.
The Section 31 agent stared blankly at the overhead. Her calm, almost quite tone, poorly hid her frustration, “That entire engagement was for nothing.”
The commander’s comment was more pragmatic, “There’ll be an investigation.”
The Andorian took her feet down and sat up, “Just stick to your story, round up a few junior officers and hand them over to security when you arrive at Starbase.” She made a dismissing gesture, “I’ll make sure it’s a whitewash. In a few hours media reports will be singing your praises for saving your ship from an insane, rapist captain.”
If he was comforted, he didn’t show it, “What about Aurelia and the others? What if Uhura and tells them…”
Visala became very somber, “Any protest she raises will fall on deaf ears.” She leaned back and rocked for a moment, “Besides, there is still a good possibility Satie won’t survive.”
Collins pointed out, “It will take some time to track down Uhura again. It was only happenstance that we found out she wasn’t dead in the first place.”
“We don’t necessary have to find Uhura,” countered Visala, “We only have to take out her ability to function.” She grimly added, “And now I know of a captain and crew that operate for her.”
*****
Sabin Genestra and Nellen Tore waited vigilantly out of sight as Norah stepped out from the wings.
The roar of the crowd was deafening as Norah Satie approached the podium. She soaked it all in with decadence; although, outwardly, she attempted to maintain a humble demeanor. After a socially acceptable amount of time, she waved the masses down. The noise subsided.
“Thank you, thank you.” The retired admiral spoke reverently, “My friends, I love the United Federation of Planets. Unfortunately, in the last few years, the UFP has been following the wrong path.
On Earth, there was an empire called Rome. It spread and spread. Its only way to survive was to acquire more land, more resources, and more people. That is was empires do. But that is not the way of the Federation! The United Federation of Planets doesn’t need new members. We need to care the members we already have!” She paused for the applause. “We should be the beacon of light in a chaotic galaxy; once we achieve that, we need not solicit others to join us. They will be coming to us.” Again, she allowed the masses time to adore her. “Yes, the Federation has lost its way, but as president, I will bring us back to the light.”
The crowd blasted her with claps and cheers.
*****
Hec’lem Ulac’dar, a local food merchant, heard the crowd in the sunken theater. He knew Norah Satie had been visiting his planet. He considered himself a rather apolitical person. He was appreciative, however, that her visit brought him more business today.
Hec’lem’s father told him something interesting when Satie began running for office. He told Hec’lem that his grandfather was once sent to prison for some years by Satie’s father, who was had been a judge years earlier.
The merchant dismissed it as a historical footnote. He had never known his grandfather and by all accounts, he probably deserved what he got.
A pedestrian walked up to his cart. “One baked Kumtumus fillet, please.”
Hec’lem gladly began the preparation.
*****
The retired admiral continued her speech. “The Dominion is gone, but because of our foreign policy, we are creating new enemies when we were supposed to be winning hearts and minds. Even our former allies, the Alshain, are becoming more aggressive against us. Any why? …Because the Santiago administration pushed the Federation into a conflict which we had no business being in. We cannot and should not police the Alpha and Beta quadrants.”
*****
“Transporter range in 15 seconds,” reported Nicole Chase from the flight control position of the Axanar freighter.
Ivan and Karim entered the bridge, “The rest of the ship is clear,” he added, “but I wouldn’t go into cargo bay one if I were you.”
Nicole turned back, “Why not?”
“You don’t want to know the answer to that,” commented Bin Nadal.
The elderly Uhura said, “Nicole and me will stay onboard.”
Chase protested, “No! I can help.”
Karim was about ready to wave her along when Uhura spoke.
“We can help better by providing support and keeping a transporter lock on them,” pointed out Nyota. She turned to Bin Nadal and Cherenkov, “Good luck, gentlemen.”
Ivan headed back out. Karim dashed to Nicole. She stood, meant his embrace, and kissed. She whispered into his ear, “Come back safe.”
He let go, “I’m more worried about you, that guy who attacked us has a starship now.”
Nicole chuckled somberly, “Assuming Aurelia left it in one piece.”
Karim returned the smile, “Good point.” Then he turned, and followed Ivan to the transporter room.
*****
“We are putting more resources into the reconstruction of Cardassia Prime than we have put into the Saurian system in 30 years!” declared Satie. Over the approving sounds of the assembled, she added, “And often, those resources are later turned against us by insurgents.”
*****
Two pillars of light appeared in the park, revealing Cherenkov and Bin Nadal. Both immediately began looking for something…anything that seemed out of place.
“I think we can safely eliminate vendors in the north part of the market,” said Ivan.
The Persian curtsied, “Alright, I’ll take south west, you take south east.” With that, the two parted ways.
Ivan was more forceful in his search than Karim. The Russian simply began rummaging through carts as the merchants vehemently protested. Bin Nadal at least attempted to ask permission first.
*****
Hec’lem Ulac’dar saw something out of the corner of his eye. Upon closer inspection it seemed like a dark-haired human was looting another vender. Then, the human moved on to another.
Alarmed, Hec’lem activated a small communications device. His intent was to call the constable. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, a new costumer appeared. He was a Grazerite. The patron didn’t look at his selection. Instead, he simply stated, “Wicked Witch of the West,” and walked away.
END OF CHAPTER 14
CHAPTER 15
Supplemental
USS Independence
In Orbit of Lyaksti'kton (The Saurian Homeworld)
The leading edge of the Independence had a few gashes in its hull. The damage was bad, but not crippling. The gunship assumed a standard orbit.
*****
“I’ve found their signals,” reported Tang Zian, from the science station. “Commander Bin Nadal is on the surface; Lieutenant Chase is on the Axanar ship.”
“Virak,” said Captain Aurelia, “take a team to the cargo vessel, and bring Chase back. Have another detail meet me in transporter room one.” The Vulcan nodded and moved out. Sintina turned a walked to the turbolift. As her back was turned, she called out, “Commander Windslow, you have the bridge.”
“Where are you going?” asked Windslow, as he got up from operations.
The hatch of the lift only allowed a short reply, not that she would have given one of any other type, “I’m getting Karim.”
*****
Hec’lem emotionlessly reached under his cart and appeared to grab air. He casually began walking toward the railing, which looked down into the sunken theater.
*****
Captain Aurelia found herself in a park. Two security personnel flanked her. She saw her tactical officer a few meters away. “Karim!” she called out as she headed for him.
Ivan overheard, and ran to intercept the Starfleet officers.
“What the hell is going on?” demanded Aurelia.
The Persian didn’t waste time, “Captain, they’re going to kill Satie! We have to find the shooter!”
“Who is going to kill her?” pressed Sintina.
Cherenkov didn’t get involved in the conversation, instead he survey the vendors. He noticed one was empty.
“Section 31, captain,” explained Bin Nadal, “It’s one of these vendor owners.”
The Russian’s eye caught something odd. A Saurian began to rest his arm on the stone railing as if he were holding a rifle. But Ivan couldn’t see anything in his hands. He took a few steps closer, now totally ignoring the Independence crew.
“Christ, not Section 31 again,” started Aurelia. “You and Admiral Nechayev are paranoid about…”
*****
“As many of you know,” Satie articulated, “my father was one of the most celebrated jurists in Federation history. He once said, ‘With the first link, the chain is forged. The first speech censured, the first thought forbidden, the first freedom denied – chains us all, irrevocably.’
The Santiago presidency has been littered with moral decay and infringements on our civil liberties. He claimed they were necessary measures to fight the Founders. If that’s the case, then why haven’t those executive orders been retracted? Remember, the Dominion never took your rights away, President Santiago did, and he did it by doing an end run around the council.”
*****
Cherenkov was now moving directly for the Saurian. He was still several dozen meters away when a rifle decloaked in the native’s hands. Ivan burst into a run. He yelled, “Gun!”
Everyone immediately turned and focused on the Saurian. The two security officers and Karim joined Ivan in the sprint to the shooter. Aurelia began to follow, but soon realized they wouldn’t have enough time.
She tapped on her compin, “Aurelia to Independence. Lock on to Admiral Satie and beam her up, now!”
“Ma’am?”
“Now, damn it!” she screamed.
*****
Hec’lem found Norah Satie through his sights. He heard someone yell, “Gun,” but it didn’t register in his altered state. His finger began to press the trigger. His target started to twinkle with light. The weapon discharged.
A bright white bolt sped toward the presidential candidate. The twinkling around Satie intensified. The disruptor energy hurtled right at her. Then, it passed where the retired admiral used to be and exploded on the stage.
The crowed began to evacuate their seats in panic.
*****
Ivan was just a few meters away when the assassin stood and began running. The Russian kept on his prey. Followed closely by the Independence team.
*****
“Independence report,” ordered the captain.
“We have her, ma’am. …but she’s not happy.”
She gave a small grin, “Understood, keep her there.” Then, Sintina began to catch up with Karim and the others.
*****
Sabin shielded Nellen instinctively until the blast subsided. They both looked at the ruined stage.
“Did she?” started Tore.
Sabin shook his head, “No, I think she was transported somewhere.” He looked around, “Let’s go find out what’s happening.”
The duo made their way to the square.
*****
Ivan Cherenkov was in the Starfleet Marines and Special Missions. He was in excellent physical shape, but this Saurian gave him a run for his money. He would have stopped and simply shot the assassin if it wasn’t for all the civilians around. He assumed the others didn’t have a shot, either.
With the weapon still in hand, the Saurian reached the gates of a compound. Ivan didn’t know what it was. The assassin pleaded to be let in, then turned, and put the rifle under his chin.
Cherenkov was just steps away. He reached out, “NO!” Ivan snatched the disruptor out of the shooter’s hands and pointed it at the Saurian. It didn’t take long for Ivan to find out he was too late.
He had taken the weapon out of the hands of a headless body.
END OF CHAPTER 15
Supplemental
USS Independence
In Orbit of Lyaksti'kton (The Saurian Homeworld)
The leading edge of the Independence had a few gashes in its hull. The damage was bad, but not crippling. The gunship assumed a standard orbit.
*****
“I’ve found their signals,” reported Tang Zian, from the science station. “Commander Bin Nadal is on the surface; Lieutenant Chase is on the Axanar ship.”
“Virak,” said Captain Aurelia, “take a team to the cargo vessel, and bring Chase back. Have another detail meet me in transporter room one.” The Vulcan nodded and moved out. Sintina turned a walked to the turbolift. As her back was turned, she called out, “Commander Windslow, you have the bridge.”
“Where are you going?” asked Windslow, as he got up from operations.
The hatch of the lift only allowed a short reply, not that she would have given one of any other type, “I’m getting Karim.”
*****
Hec’lem emotionlessly reached under his cart and appeared to grab air. He casually began walking toward the railing, which looked down into the sunken theater.
*****
Captain Aurelia found herself in a park. Two security personnel flanked her. She saw her tactical officer a few meters away. “Karim!” she called out as she headed for him.
Ivan overheard, and ran to intercept the Starfleet officers.
“What the hell is going on?” demanded Aurelia.
The Persian didn’t waste time, “Captain, they’re going to kill Satie! We have to find the shooter!”
“Who is going to kill her?” pressed Sintina.
Cherenkov didn’t get involved in the conversation, instead he survey the vendors. He noticed one was empty.
“Section 31, captain,” explained Bin Nadal, “It’s one of these vendor owners.”
The Russian’s eye caught something odd. A Saurian began to rest his arm on the stone railing as if he were holding a rifle. But Ivan couldn’t see anything in his hands. He took a few steps closer, now totally ignoring the Independence crew.
“Christ, not Section 31 again,” started Aurelia. “You and Admiral Nechayev are paranoid about…”
*****
“As many of you know,” Satie articulated, “my father was one of the most celebrated jurists in Federation history. He once said, ‘With the first link, the chain is forged. The first speech censured, the first thought forbidden, the first freedom denied – chains us all, irrevocably.’
The Santiago presidency has been littered with moral decay and infringements on our civil liberties. He claimed they were necessary measures to fight the Founders. If that’s the case, then why haven’t those executive orders been retracted? Remember, the Dominion never took your rights away, President Santiago did, and he did it by doing an end run around the council.”
*****
Cherenkov was now moving directly for the Saurian. He was still several dozen meters away when a rifle decloaked in the native’s hands. Ivan burst into a run. He yelled, “Gun!”
Everyone immediately turned and focused on the Saurian. The two security officers and Karim joined Ivan in the sprint to the shooter. Aurelia began to follow, but soon realized they wouldn’t have enough time.
She tapped on her compin, “Aurelia to Independence. Lock on to Admiral Satie and beam her up, now!”
“Ma’am?”
“Now, damn it!” she screamed.
*****
Hec’lem found Norah Satie through his sights. He heard someone yell, “Gun,” but it didn’t register in his altered state. His finger began to press the trigger. His target started to twinkle with light. The weapon discharged.
A bright white bolt sped toward the presidential candidate. The twinkling around Satie intensified. The disruptor energy hurtled right at her. Then, it passed where the retired admiral used to be and exploded on the stage.
The crowed began to evacuate their seats in panic.
*****
Ivan was just a few meters away when the assassin stood and began running. The Russian kept on his prey. Followed closely by the Independence team.
*****
“Independence report,” ordered the captain.
“We have her, ma’am. …but she’s not happy.”
She gave a small grin, “Understood, keep her there.” Then, Sintina began to catch up with Karim and the others.
*****
Sabin shielded Nellen instinctively until the blast subsided. They both looked at the ruined stage.
“Did she?” started Tore.
Sabin shook his head, “No, I think she was transported somewhere.” He looked around, “Let’s go find out what’s happening.”
The duo made their way to the square.
*****
Ivan Cherenkov was in the Starfleet Marines and Special Missions. He was in excellent physical shape, but this Saurian gave him a run for his money. He would have stopped and simply shot the assassin if it wasn’t for all the civilians around. He assumed the others didn’t have a shot, either.
With the weapon still in hand, the Saurian reached the gates of a compound. Ivan didn’t know what it was. The assassin pleaded to be let in, then turned, and put the rifle under his chin.
Cherenkov was just steps away. He reached out, “NO!” Ivan snatched the disruptor out of the shooter’s hands and pointed it at the Saurian. It didn’t take long for Ivan to find out he was too late.
He had taken the weapon out of the hands of a headless body.
END OF CHAPTER 15
CHAPTER 16
Supplemental
USS Independence, Sick-bay
In Orbit of Lyaksti'kton (The Saurian Homeworld)
Dr. Zo’Kama Do’matar reviewed the toxicology report from the assassin. No illicit drugs, no parasites. She was interrupted by a knock on the door frame to her office. The Arkonian looked up.
Jinal, the chief engineer, stood in the threshold. “Did you hear the good news?” he sarcastically asked. The Vulcan engineer was in reality, Romulan. The doctor had discovered his deceit, but promised to help continue it.
Months ago, he confided in the reptilian. Jinal’s father was an aid to a Romulan senator. He was to inform the Federation about the massive attacks near the border. It was a mystery at the time, but it later proved to be the Borg. At any rate, Jinal’s father was never able to deliver his message because of a Tal’Shair raid. Jinal survived the attack and was found by Federation citizens. He lied about being Romulan out of fear. Jinal had been masquerading as a Vulcan ever since. He was obviously wary of Satie, due to her “witch hunt” aboard the Enterprise some years earlier.
“I assume you mean the prevention of Satie’s assassination?” rejoined the doctor. The Arkonian had a common dislike of the retired admiral. Zo’Kama was forced to formally identify that a crew member of the Enterprise was one-quarter Romulan for Satie’s crusade. It was the lowlight of Zo’Kama’s career.
“I almost wish we didn’t succeed,” admitted the Romulan. He no longer held his Vulcan persona when alone with Zo’Kama.
“Not that I would wish harm on her,” said the Arkonian, “but her witch hunt on the Enterprise ruined the life of a good man. A fanatic like that has no place in office.”
Jinal plopped in a chair opposite the doctor, “I don’t know that I ever thanked you for keeping my heritage secret.”
She waved him off, “Your being a Romulan has nothing to do with your ability to serve in the fleet.”
“I wish more people thought like you,” he responded.
Zo’Kama laughed; it was more of a hissing, really. She said, “That makes two of us.” She glanced at the report again, “What is that?”
*****
Captain Sintina Aurelia walked into the main conference room on deck 2. She decided to assemble everyone in one spot and find out what this was all about. Her seat, at the head of the table, was vacant. To the right of it was Retired Admiral Norah Satie; then, her aids Sabin Genestra and Nellen Tore. Ivan Cherenkov, a recent prisoner in the stockades, was next to them. Opposite them were: Nicole, Karim, and a very elderly human female.
Sintina stood behind her tall-backed seat and rested her arms on it. See looked at everyone…they looked back. Finally, she asked, “Who do I need to talk to in order to find out what the hell has been happening over the last few weeks?”
The old woman spoke up, “First, I’d like to suggest everything said here, not leave this room.”
The young Latina captain gave her a look, “And you are?”
Again, the presidential contender interrupted, “Captain, she is a true patriot and, like me, a retired Starfleet admiral. You should show her more respect.”
Karim addressed the captain’s still unanswered question, “This is Admiral Nyota Uhura. She was the Chief of Starfleet Intelligence for nearly thirty years.”
Aurelia regarded the humble looking woman, “Good, so you should be able to answer my questions, right?”
“Depends on the question,” she rejoined.
The captain sat, “Let’s start with: who just tried to kill Admiral Satie?”
“About a month ago,” began Uhura, “I became aware of an unspecified plot to remove Ms. Satie from the race for president. I warned her, via a network…” She trailed off, as if allowing herself to finally mourn for her fallen associates. “…now, a smaller network of Listeners.”
Norah jumped in, “That’s when I recruited Mr. Cherenkov, here. I wanted him to start a second line of investigation. But then, when I lost contact with Admiral Uhura, I sent him to find her.”
Ivan dipped his head slightly to Aurelia.
Aurelia returned her focus on Nyota, “So how are you involved with Admiral…”
“Wait,” ordered Uhura with a raised hand. “Please captain, don’t use any names other than to people here. To answer your next question: yes, the story Mr. Bin Nadal gave you is the correct one.”
“Why can’t I use the name?” asked Sintina.
Uhura put her frail hand down, “The less names dropped, the safer we all are.”
The captain shook her head, “This cloak and dagger crap is really starting to piss me off.” She stood up, paced, and yelled, “Who am I supposed to know who’s right and who’s wrong? You say this “Section 31” is responsible for all this, but you have no proof! Seems to me, this thirty-one crap is just some boogie-man you pull out when you can’t explain something.” She nudged her chair out of the way and put her palms on the black glass. “Have you ever considered, that maybe…just maybe, you people are the bad guys?”
“How dare you accuse us of such a thing!” spat Satie.
Lieutenant Commander Cherenkov spoke up, “Sir, I can say from personal experience, Section 31 believes the ends justify the means. They don’t care about rule of law, morals, or ethics. They will trample over anything or anyone that gets in the way of their goals.”
Karim appealed to his friend, “Captain, I know why you’re hesitant to believe all this. You want to have faith in the Federation…I do too. I want to believe the people in power aren’t capable of such acts. Unfortunately, the facts keep on saying otherwise.”
“Facts?” blurted Aurelia, “What facts?”
“When is the last time you did any research on the subject, captain?” harshly asked Sabin. He continued even as she began to respond, “Or do you just trust the daily news casts to provide you with your information?”
Aurelia spoke over him, “How about classified Starfleet activity reports, mister!”
“Yes,” said Uhura, but the room had become too loud for anyone to pay attention.
“Starfleet reports are routinely doctored,” countered Nellen.
Satie added, “And the major media has been manipulated by these people for years!”
“I refuse to believe that my entire way of life is a lie!” blared Aurelia.
“Yes!” shouted Uhura. The sound of the elderly woman raising her voice had the effect of a parent uncharacteristically yelling at a child. Everyone stopped talking and looked at her.
“Yes, what?” asked Satie.
Nyota sighed. She felt old again. She looked at Captain Aurelia, “You asked if I had ever considered that I was the bad guy…the answer is ‘yes.’”
No one moved. They were fixated on the confession.
Uhura continued, “I debated for years, once I learned the existence of Section 31. What if they were doing what needed to be done, but no one wanted to do? What if they had better intel and knew how to respond better than I did? If I moved against them, would I be hurting or helping the Federation?”
She paused, but no one was ready to comment. So, she went on, “But then I realized, they weren’t trying to protect the citizens of the Federation. They were trying to protect themselves. Then, the choice became clear.”
Lieutenant Chase coyly asked, “But what about your crew on the Ethiopia, Yanas, and the family on that freighter? How many lives is hers worth?” swinging her head to Satie.
Norah gasped, “I had no idea.”
Uhura looked over at the young operations officer. She stared at her, “This was never about saving Satie; but saving our republican form of government. Whether you or I agree with her platform is irrelevant. She is a legitimate candidate. It’s not the place of Section 31, or you, or me to choose for the citizens of the Federation.”
END OF CHAPTER 16
Supplemental
USS Independence, Sick-bay
In Orbit of Lyaksti'kton (The Saurian Homeworld)
Dr. Zo’Kama Do’matar reviewed the toxicology report from the assassin. No illicit drugs, no parasites. She was interrupted by a knock on the door frame to her office. The Arkonian looked up.
Jinal, the chief engineer, stood in the threshold. “Did you hear the good news?” he sarcastically asked. The Vulcan engineer was in reality, Romulan. The doctor had discovered his deceit, but promised to help continue it.
Months ago, he confided in the reptilian. Jinal’s father was an aid to a Romulan senator. He was to inform the Federation about the massive attacks near the border. It was a mystery at the time, but it later proved to be the Borg. At any rate, Jinal’s father was never able to deliver his message because of a Tal’Shair raid. Jinal survived the attack and was found by Federation citizens. He lied about being Romulan out of fear. Jinal had been masquerading as a Vulcan ever since. He was obviously wary of Satie, due to her “witch hunt” aboard the Enterprise some years earlier.
“I assume you mean the prevention of Satie’s assassination?” rejoined the doctor. The Arkonian had a common dislike of the retired admiral. Zo’Kama was forced to formally identify that a crew member of the Enterprise was one-quarter Romulan for Satie’s crusade. It was the lowlight of Zo’Kama’s career.
“I almost wish we didn’t succeed,” admitted the Romulan. He no longer held his Vulcan persona when alone with Zo’Kama.
“Not that I would wish harm on her,” said the Arkonian, “but her witch hunt on the Enterprise ruined the life of a good man. A fanatic like that has no place in office.”
Jinal plopped in a chair opposite the doctor, “I don’t know that I ever thanked you for keeping my heritage secret.”
She waved him off, “Your being a Romulan has nothing to do with your ability to serve in the fleet.”
“I wish more people thought like you,” he responded.
Zo’Kama laughed; it was more of a hissing, really. She said, “That makes two of us.” She glanced at the report again, “What is that?”
*****
Captain Sintina Aurelia walked into the main conference room on deck 2. She decided to assemble everyone in one spot and find out what this was all about. Her seat, at the head of the table, was vacant. To the right of it was Retired Admiral Norah Satie; then, her aids Sabin Genestra and Nellen Tore. Ivan Cherenkov, a recent prisoner in the stockades, was next to them. Opposite them were: Nicole, Karim, and a very elderly human female.
Sintina stood behind her tall-backed seat and rested her arms on it. See looked at everyone…they looked back. Finally, she asked, “Who do I need to talk to in order to find out what the hell has been happening over the last few weeks?”
The old woman spoke up, “First, I’d like to suggest everything said here, not leave this room.”
The young Latina captain gave her a look, “And you are?”
Again, the presidential contender interrupted, “Captain, she is a true patriot and, like me, a retired Starfleet admiral. You should show her more respect.”
Karim addressed the captain’s still unanswered question, “This is Admiral Nyota Uhura. She was the Chief of Starfleet Intelligence for nearly thirty years.”
Aurelia regarded the humble looking woman, “Good, so you should be able to answer my questions, right?”
“Depends on the question,” she rejoined.
The captain sat, “Let’s start with: who just tried to kill Admiral Satie?”
“About a month ago,” began Uhura, “I became aware of an unspecified plot to remove Ms. Satie from the race for president. I warned her, via a network…” She trailed off, as if allowing herself to finally mourn for her fallen associates. “…now, a smaller network of Listeners.”
Norah jumped in, “That’s when I recruited Mr. Cherenkov, here. I wanted him to start a second line of investigation. But then, when I lost contact with Admiral Uhura, I sent him to find her.”
Ivan dipped his head slightly to Aurelia.
Aurelia returned her focus on Nyota, “So how are you involved with Admiral…”
“Wait,” ordered Uhura with a raised hand. “Please captain, don’t use any names other than to people here. To answer your next question: yes, the story Mr. Bin Nadal gave you is the correct one.”
“Why can’t I use the name?” asked Sintina.
Uhura put her frail hand down, “The less names dropped, the safer we all are.”
The captain shook her head, “This cloak and dagger crap is really starting to piss me off.” She stood up, paced, and yelled, “Who am I supposed to know who’s right and who’s wrong? You say this “Section 31” is responsible for all this, but you have no proof! Seems to me, this thirty-one crap is just some boogie-man you pull out when you can’t explain something.” She nudged her chair out of the way and put her palms on the black glass. “Have you ever considered, that maybe…just maybe, you people are the bad guys?”
“How dare you accuse us of such a thing!” spat Satie.
Lieutenant Commander Cherenkov spoke up, “Sir, I can say from personal experience, Section 31 believes the ends justify the means. They don’t care about rule of law, morals, or ethics. They will trample over anything or anyone that gets in the way of their goals.”
Karim appealed to his friend, “Captain, I know why you’re hesitant to believe all this. You want to have faith in the Federation…I do too. I want to believe the people in power aren’t capable of such acts. Unfortunately, the facts keep on saying otherwise.”
“Facts?” blurted Aurelia, “What facts?”
“When is the last time you did any research on the subject, captain?” harshly asked Sabin. He continued even as she began to respond, “Or do you just trust the daily news casts to provide you with your information?”
Aurelia spoke over him, “How about classified Starfleet activity reports, mister!”
“Yes,” said Uhura, but the room had become too loud for anyone to pay attention.
“Starfleet reports are routinely doctored,” countered Nellen.
Satie added, “And the major media has been manipulated by these people for years!”
“I refuse to believe that my entire way of life is a lie!” blared Aurelia.
“Yes!” shouted Uhura. The sound of the elderly woman raising her voice had the effect of a parent uncharacteristically yelling at a child. Everyone stopped talking and looked at her.
“Yes, what?” asked Satie.
Nyota sighed. She felt old again. She looked at Captain Aurelia, “You asked if I had ever considered that I was the bad guy…the answer is ‘yes.’”
No one moved. They were fixated on the confession.
Uhura continued, “I debated for years, once I learned the existence of Section 31. What if they were doing what needed to be done, but no one wanted to do? What if they had better intel and knew how to respond better than I did? If I moved against them, would I be hurting or helping the Federation?”
She paused, but no one was ready to comment. So, she went on, “But then I realized, they weren’t trying to protect the citizens of the Federation. They were trying to protect themselves. Then, the choice became clear.”
Lieutenant Chase coyly asked, “But what about your crew on the Ethiopia, Yanas, and the family on that freighter? How many lives is hers worth?” swinging her head to Satie.
Norah gasped, “I had no idea.”
Uhura looked over at the young operations officer. She stared at her, “This was never about saving Satie; but saving our republican form of government. Whether you or I agree with her platform is irrelevant. She is a legitimate candidate. It’s not the place of Section 31, or you, or me to choose for the citizens of the Federation.”
END OF CHAPTER 16
CHAPTER 17
Stardate: 53744.1 (29 September 2376)
USS Independence, Captain’s Ready Room
In Orbit of Lyaksti'kton (The Saurian Homeworld)
Aurelia stared at the padd. It was operational, but the document was blank. She contemplated what to put in her report. Should she even make a report? Finally, she decided it could wait. Sintina was ready to active the EMH for a massage when the chime rang. “Come in,” she sighed.
Ethan Windslow entered. He seemed uneasy.
“What is it, commander?” she asked.
“Ma’am,” he began, “this could be nothing, but I wanted to tell you about something. It’s…about my court-martial.”
Sintina raised a brow.
He continued, “Part of the reason why I lied about…abandoning my officers…was because I was told by Admiral Ross, that if I did, I would have a great, new assignment.” He sat down, “I occurs to me, that I could have been black-mailed to do…well… anything, once I got there.”
“What’s your point, Windslow,” Aurelia pressed.
“I can’t prove it,” he said, “but I think Dalton Russell was my replacement.”
The captain sat back and considered his words.
Ethan muttered, “It’s just a…possibly I thought of. I know I can’t back it up with anything.”
The door chime sounded again. “Enter,” said Sintina.
Nyota Uhura took slow, deliberate, but unassisted steps into the room. A padd was in her hand. Aurelia and Windslow both stood. Ethan offered her his chair. She accepted and sat.
“I’d better get back to the bridge,” offered Windslow, sensing their guest wanted to speak to Aurelia alone. He exited.
“I’ve been doing some research,” began Uhura, “the crew manifest of the Philadelphia is not easy to get a hold of.” She handed the padd over. It displayed a personnel file. “The person who attacked us, killed a police officer, and murdered a family is Commander Zackary Collins, the first officer.”
Sintina felt ill when see saw the picture. She forced her vomit back down her throat. She slapped the padd on the desk once she recovered, “You’re saying that I let a murder run off with a Sovereign class ship!”
“Yes,” coolly said Uhura, “but there was nothing you could’ve done.”
“Like hell!” she objected, “All of you are going to write up an affidavit about what you told me and we’re going to take it to the judge advocate for this sector…”
“I can’t,” observed Nyota, “I’m dead. Neither can Ivan, Nicole, or Karim. They can’t be traced back to me, for their own sake.”
Aurelia lashed out, “So he just walks!”
“I didn’t say that,” she responded, “I said any legal recourse would be a waste of time. He’s is too well protected.”
Sintina threw up her arms, “Now what?”
“Now,” said Uhura with steely resolve, “Commander Zackary Collins is officially on my bad side.”
*****
Norah Satie, her aids, and Ivan Chernekov all sat around a large table in the ambassador suite of the Independence. Ivan insisted the admiral stay aboard the gunship, considering recent events.
“I’ll personally sweep the Aaron Satie. I’ll enlist the help of Commander Bin Nadal. I don’t want any of you to return to that ship before it’s done, understood?”
Sabin, Nellen, and Norah all nodded. They weren’t usually the type to take orders well, but they deferred to Cherenkov in this instance.
A beeping came from the com terminal in the other room, Nellen left to answer it.
“I can’t believe 31 wouldn’t have a back-up plan,” Ivan continued.
“Perhaps we should keep our agenda secret from now on,” suggested Sabin.
Satie commented, “No, we need publicity, not secrecy.”
“If you attempt to expose 31, you risk losing support. People will begin to think you’re a conspiracy theorist,” said Sabin.
Nellen Tore returned to her chair with a blank stare on her face.
“Who called?” inquired Satie.
Tore said nothing and reached into her hair bun. She took out a small needle.
The other three all gave her a curious look.
With a grunt, Nellen stabbed herself in the arm with the needle. Immediately, her arm became red and irritated. She cried out in pain as it spread to the rest of her body.
Ivan had heard about organic explosives. He shot up and clamped onto Norah’s waist and sprinted with her toward the exit. Satie had no idea what was going on. It was happening so fast. Sabin followed Ivan’s lead after only a moment’s hesitation.
Tears rolled down Nellen’s face as huge blisters developed all over her.
Cherenkov carried the admiral out the hatch. Sabin came out behind them. The commander didn’t stop. The hatch slid shut.
“Bridge,” yelled Ivan, “set up a level 10 force…”
The hatch covers exploded out into the corridor, and crashed into the adjacent bulkhead. A fireball flowed out toward them. Sabin was lifted off the floor and slammed into Cherenkov and Satie, forcing them to the deck.
The explosion only expanded up to a certain point then it receded back into Satie’s room. It caused the windows to shatter and the air took what was left of the fireball out into space. Forcefields went up before anyone was in danger of joining it in the void.
*****
The Arkonian doctor was face to face with Norah Satie. Despite how Zo’Kama felt about her, she did her job. “Only a few cuts and bruises,” reported the doctor.
“And Sabin?” asked Satie from the biobed. Her Betazoid advisor lay on the other side of the room.
Zo’Kama looked over, “He has severe burns, but in time, he’ll recover.” She moved over to a third bed holding Ivan, “As for you, your left ankle is sprained.”
“We got away lucky,” Cherenkov commented. “When can I be released?”
The doctor responded, “In a few minutes.”
*****
Captain Aurelia and Bin Nadal walked down the corridor to sick-bay.
“She was transported aboard, why didn’t the biofilters detect the explosive?” questioned the captain.
The security chief postulated, “The filters are only as good as the database of harmful compounds input into them.”
Aurelia huffed and jested, “How many holes do I have in my ship, now?”
Bin Nadal gave her an accurate number, “I think five.”
*****
Sintina and Karim entered sick-bay. Aurelia looked around for Zo’Kama before addressing the injured. “Well?”
The reptilian turned, “He’s the worst,” as she pointed at Sabin. She added, “But he’ll be fine.”
Aurelia returned to Satie, “Admiral, do know why Nellen might have done this?”
“No,” she said, near tears, “She’s been with me for years. She had no reason to do this!”
Zo’Kama overheard and stepped closer, “I think I may have an answer for you.”
END OF CHAPTER 17
Stardate: 53744.1 (29 September 2376)
USS Independence, Captain’s Ready Room
In Orbit of Lyaksti'kton (The Saurian Homeworld)
Aurelia stared at the padd. It was operational, but the document was blank. She contemplated what to put in her report. Should she even make a report? Finally, she decided it could wait. Sintina was ready to active the EMH for a massage when the chime rang. “Come in,” she sighed.
Ethan Windslow entered. He seemed uneasy.
“What is it, commander?” she asked.
“Ma’am,” he began, “this could be nothing, but I wanted to tell you about something. It’s…about my court-martial.”
Sintina raised a brow.
He continued, “Part of the reason why I lied about…abandoning my officers…was because I was told by Admiral Ross, that if I did, I would have a great, new assignment.” He sat down, “I occurs to me, that I could have been black-mailed to do…well… anything, once I got there.”
“What’s your point, Windslow,” Aurelia pressed.
“I can’t prove it,” he said, “but I think Dalton Russell was my replacement.”
The captain sat back and considered his words.
Ethan muttered, “It’s just a…possibly I thought of. I know I can’t back it up with anything.”
The door chime sounded again. “Enter,” said Sintina.
Nyota Uhura took slow, deliberate, but unassisted steps into the room. A padd was in her hand. Aurelia and Windslow both stood. Ethan offered her his chair. She accepted and sat.
“I’d better get back to the bridge,” offered Windslow, sensing their guest wanted to speak to Aurelia alone. He exited.
“I’ve been doing some research,” began Uhura, “the crew manifest of the Philadelphia is not easy to get a hold of.” She handed the padd over. It displayed a personnel file. “The person who attacked us, killed a police officer, and murdered a family is Commander Zackary Collins, the first officer.”
Sintina felt ill when see saw the picture. She forced her vomit back down her throat. She slapped the padd on the desk once she recovered, “You’re saying that I let a murder run off with a Sovereign class ship!”
“Yes,” coolly said Uhura, “but there was nothing you could’ve done.”
“Like hell!” she objected, “All of you are going to write up an affidavit about what you told me and we’re going to take it to the judge advocate for this sector…”
“I can’t,” observed Nyota, “I’m dead. Neither can Ivan, Nicole, or Karim. They can’t be traced back to me, for their own sake.”
Aurelia lashed out, “So he just walks!”
“I didn’t say that,” she responded, “I said any legal recourse would be a waste of time. He’s is too well protected.”
Sintina threw up her arms, “Now what?”
“Now,” said Uhura with steely resolve, “Commander Zackary Collins is officially on my bad side.”
*****
Norah Satie, her aids, and Ivan Chernekov all sat around a large table in the ambassador suite of the Independence. Ivan insisted the admiral stay aboard the gunship, considering recent events.
“I’ll personally sweep the Aaron Satie. I’ll enlist the help of Commander Bin Nadal. I don’t want any of you to return to that ship before it’s done, understood?”
Sabin, Nellen, and Norah all nodded. They weren’t usually the type to take orders well, but they deferred to Cherenkov in this instance.
A beeping came from the com terminal in the other room, Nellen left to answer it.
“I can’t believe 31 wouldn’t have a back-up plan,” Ivan continued.
“Perhaps we should keep our agenda secret from now on,” suggested Sabin.
Satie commented, “No, we need publicity, not secrecy.”
“If you attempt to expose 31, you risk losing support. People will begin to think you’re a conspiracy theorist,” said Sabin.
Nellen Tore returned to her chair with a blank stare on her face.
“Who called?” inquired Satie.
Tore said nothing and reached into her hair bun. She took out a small needle.
The other three all gave her a curious look.
With a grunt, Nellen stabbed herself in the arm with the needle. Immediately, her arm became red and irritated. She cried out in pain as it spread to the rest of her body.
Ivan had heard about organic explosives. He shot up and clamped onto Norah’s waist and sprinted with her toward the exit. Satie had no idea what was going on. It was happening so fast. Sabin followed Ivan’s lead after only a moment’s hesitation.
Tears rolled down Nellen’s face as huge blisters developed all over her.
Cherenkov carried the admiral out the hatch. Sabin came out behind them. The commander didn’t stop. The hatch slid shut.
“Bridge,” yelled Ivan, “set up a level 10 force…”
The hatch covers exploded out into the corridor, and crashed into the adjacent bulkhead. A fireball flowed out toward them. Sabin was lifted off the floor and slammed into Cherenkov and Satie, forcing them to the deck.
The explosion only expanded up to a certain point then it receded back into Satie’s room. It caused the windows to shatter and the air took what was left of the fireball out into space. Forcefields went up before anyone was in danger of joining it in the void.
*****
The Arkonian doctor was face to face with Norah Satie. Despite how Zo’Kama felt about her, she did her job. “Only a few cuts and bruises,” reported the doctor.
“And Sabin?” asked Satie from the biobed. Her Betazoid advisor lay on the other side of the room.
Zo’Kama looked over, “He has severe burns, but in time, he’ll recover.” She moved over to a third bed holding Ivan, “As for you, your left ankle is sprained.”
“We got away lucky,” Cherenkov commented. “When can I be released?”
The doctor responded, “In a few minutes.”
*****
Captain Aurelia and Bin Nadal walked down the corridor to sick-bay.
“She was transported aboard, why didn’t the biofilters detect the explosive?” questioned the captain.
The security chief postulated, “The filters are only as good as the database of harmful compounds input into them.”
Aurelia huffed and jested, “How many holes do I have in my ship, now?”
Bin Nadal gave her an accurate number, “I think five.”
*****
Sintina and Karim entered sick-bay. Aurelia looked around for Zo’Kama before addressing the injured. “Well?”
The reptilian turned, “He’s the worst,” as she pointed at Sabin. She added, “But he’ll be fine.”
Aurelia returned to Satie, “Admiral, do know why Nellen might have done this?”
“No,” she said, near tears, “She’s been with me for years. She had no reason to do this!”
Zo’Kama overheard and stepped closer, “I think I may have an answer for you.”
END OF CHAPTER 17
CHAPTER 18
Stardate: 53747.9 (30 September 2376)
USS Independence, Transporter Room Two
In Orbit of Lyaksti'kton (The Saurian Homeworld)
Retired Admiral Norah Satie and Ivan Cherenkov stepped up onto the platform. Aurelia, Windslow, and Bin Nadal stood near the controls.
First Officer Windslow informed them, “Mr. Genestra has been sent to your medical bay. Dr. Zo’Kama beamed over enough metorapan and dermaline gel for three months.”
“Thank you,” said Satie with a genuine humbleness.
Karim stepped up to Ivan. He offered a hand, “Thanks, for saving our asses.”
Cherenkov took it. “It’s what I do,” he said with a hint of sarcasm in his voice.
Karim smirked as he moved back.
“Are you sure you don’t want to push back your schedule and rest awhile longer, Admiral?” asked the captain.
Norah shook her head, “The elections are just over a month away. I can’t slow down, now.”
Aurelia nodded. She turned to the operator, “Energize.”
*****
The doors slid open to the room holding Independence’s other VIP. Aurelia walked in. Nyota seemed to be expecting her on the couch.
The captain moved toward her, “Here is Dr. Zo’Kama’s autopsy report, as you requested, including details about that foreign chemical.”
Uhura reached out, “Thank you.”
“What do you think it is?”
She put the padd down next to her, “The answer to a lot of questions.”
Sintina followed up with, “You think Tore and the Saurian were being manipulated with it?”
“Among others,” the elder lady replied. She added, “Nellen knew about me. It’s probably how 31 found me. In fact, my contact could have lured me to New Sydney.”
“I guess not trusting anyone is a way of life for you,” Aurelia commented.
Uhura shifted her weight. Obviously understanding her true meaning, she rejoined, “You mean to tell me, that after all you’ve seen, you still don’t believe what’s going on?”
Aurelia shot back, “I have more trust in my government than you do.”
Nyota laughed, softly, “In some ways, you remind me of James Kirk.”
“Then I’m in good company,” Sintina said.
Uhura’s demeanor became more somber, “Oh, I didn’t mean that as a compliment, my dear.”
The captain was taken aback.
“You see,” continued the admiral, “he was slow to adapt…slow to change his way of thinking. Because of that, he was recruited to be the perfect patsy in the Klingon-Federation conspiracy after the explosion of Praxis. Just as some people thought they could use you as captain of this ship.”
“How the hell…”
Uhura answered the uncompleted question, “I don’t miss much. Like you, Kirk alienated people left and right. He was tolerated because…” She cocked her head, “or maybe in spite of, his accomplishments. You have no such laurels to rest on.”
The captain shifted her hips and crossed her arms, “What’s your point?”
“The people who put you here will soon realize that you have been more of a hindrance than a help to their agenda.” Uhura stood up; she shooed away Sintina’s assistance. “You’ll need allies, captain. Admiral Nechayev and I are offering to be some.”
Aurelia took a deep breath and promptly changed the subject, “When will you be leaving, admiral?”
She smiled, “Oh, my ride is already here.”
“Uh?”
Nyota lifted her wrist and talked into a small device on it, “SuH.”
A burly, male voice came back, “jIyaj loS.”
The admiral looked at Aurelia. The shock on her face was a treat for the old woman, “Never underestimate a Klingon and his sense of betrayal….Until next time, Captain Aurelia…HIjol HoD Wo’toth.”
A red light surrounded Uhura and she disappeared.
*****
The crippled Philadelphia was at warp. They towed their port nacelle with them. It was held by the ship’s tractor beam.
*****
Visala looked into the screen on the captain’s desk. Morgan, a fellow agent, appeared to be just as frustrated as she was.
She noted, “We’ve all failed. The director will not be pleased.” The Andorian added, “That ship needs to be neutralized.”
“I agree,” came from over sub-space. “It’s unfortunate. I thought Captain Aurelia was going to be a good soldier for us.”
“You were mistaken.”
The dark-skinned man nodded, “Yes, I was. The error will be corrected.”
Visala stated, “The sooner the better.” She ended the communication.
She got up and exited the ready room. Upon entering the bridge, she asked, “Captain Collins, what’s our status?”
Collins now sported a fourth pip. He responded, “We’re on course and holding steady.”
END OF CHAPTER 18
END OF “WAY OF THE GUN”
Stardate: 53747.9 (30 September 2376)
USS Independence, Transporter Room Two
In Orbit of Lyaksti'kton (The Saurian Homeworld)
Retired Admiral Norah Satie and Ivan Cherenkov stepped up onto the platform. Aurelia, Windslow, and Bin Nadal stood near the controls.
First Officer Windslow informed them, “Mr. Genestra has been sent to your medical bay. Dr. Zo’Kama beamed over enough metorapan and dermaline gel for three months.”
“Thank you,” said Satie with a genuine humbleness.
Karim stepped up to Ivan. He offered a hand, “Thanks, for saving our asses.”
Cherenkov took it. “It’s what I do,” he said with a hint of sarcasm in his voice.
Karim smirked as he moved back.
“Are you sure you don’t want to push back your schedule and rest awhile longer, Admiral?” asked the captain.
Norah shook her head, “The elections are just over a month away. I can’t slow down, now.”
Aurelia nodded. She turned to the operator, “Energize.”
*****
The doors slid open to the room holding Independence’s other VIP. Aurelia walked in. Nyota seemed to be expecting her on the couch.
The captain moved toward her, “Here is Dr. Zo’Kama’s autopsy report, as you requested, including details about that foreign chemical.”
Uhura reached out, “Thank you.”
“What do you think it is?”
She put the padd down next to her, “The answer to a lot of questions.”
Sintina followed up with, “You think Tore and the Saurian were being manipulated with it?”
“Among others,” the elder lady replied. She added, “Nellen knew about me. It’s probably how 31 found me. In fact, my contact could have lured me to New Sydney.”
“I guess not trusting anyone is a way of life for you,” Aurelia commented.
Uhura shifted her weight. Obviously understanding her true meaning, she rejoined, “You mean to tell me, that after all you’ve seen, you still don’t believe what’s going on?”
Aurelia shot back, “I have more trust in my government than you do.”
Nyota laughed, softly, “In some ways, you remind me of James Kirk.”
“Then I’m in good company,” Sintina said.
Uhura’s demeanor became more somber, “Oh, I didn’t mean that as a compliment, my dear.”
The captain was taken aback.
“You see,” continued the admiral, “he was slow to adapt…slow to change his way of thinking. Because of that, he was recruited to be the perfect patsy in the Klingon-Federation conspiracy after the explosion of Praxis. Just as some people thought they could use you as captain of this ship.”
“How the hell…”
Uhura answered the uncompleted question, “I don’t miss much. Like you, Kirk alienated people left and right. He was tolerated because…” She cocked her head, “or maybe in spite of, his accomplishments. You have no such laurels to rest on.”
The captain shifted her hips and crossed her arms, “What’s your point?”
“The people who put you here will soon realize that you have been more of a hindrance than a help to their agenda.” Uhura stood up; she shooed away Sintina’s assistance. “You’ll need allies, captain. Admiral Nechayev and I are offering to be some.”
Aurelia took a deep breath and promptly changed the subject, “When will you be leaving, admiral?”
She smiled, “Oh, my ride is already here.”
“Uh?”
Nyota lifted her wrist and talked into a small device on it, “SuH.”
A burly, male voice came back, “jIyaj loS.”
The admiral looked at Aurelia. The shock on her face was a treat for the old woman, “Never underestimate a Klingon and his sense of betrayal….Until next time, Captain Aurelia…HIjol HoD Wo’toth.”
A red light surrounded Uhura and she disappeared.
*****
The crippled Philadelphia was at warp. They towed their port nacelle with them. It was held by the ship’s tractor beam.
*****
Visala looked into the screen on the captain’s desk. Morgan, a fellow agent, appeared to be just as frustrated as she was.
She noted, “We’ve all failed. The director will not be pleased.” The Andorian added, “That ship needs to be neutralized.”
“I agree,” came from over sub-space. “It’s unfortunate. I thought Captain Aurelia was going to be a good soldier for us.”
“You were mistaken.”
The dark-skinned man nodded, “Yes, I was. The error will be corrected.”
Visala stated, “The sooner the better.” She ended the communication.
She got up and exited the ready room. Upon entering the bridge, she asked, “Captain Collins, what’s our status?”
Collins now sported a fourth pip. He responded, “We’re on course and holding steady.”
END OF CHAPTER 18
END OF “WAY OF THE GUN”
Well, there it is. I hope you enjoyed it. I'll be occupied the next few days, but don't let that stop you from commenting! 
The next installment is “The Expropriation.” There will be serious repercussions for the crew of the Independence for their actions in "Way of the Gun." It might begin to be posted as early as this week.
A special thanks goes out to DarKush for: use of his character, Ivan Cherenkov; giving me the title, "Way of the Gun;" and catching my typos.
And thank you all: for reading, praising, even criticizing.
The next installment is “The Expropriation.” There will be serious repercussions for the crew of the Independence for their actions in "Way of the Gun." It might begin to be posted as early as this week.
A special thanks goes out to DarKush for: use of his character, Ivan Cherenkov; giving me the title, "Way of the Gun;" and catching my typos.
And thank you all: for reading, praising, even criticizing.
A roller coaster of a conclusion. Aurelia really is over her head here--her universe has been rocked, leaving her reeling about. It's a hard thing though to have your idealism tarnished.
Very well done!
Very well done!
Excellent work. Way of the Gun was a fun read. I really enjoyed Collins. I think he might be your nasiest villian to date and I'm glad he survived to terrorize the Indy in the future.
Also, some good character building with Zo'Kama and Jinal. I liked the Zo and Satie scene.
I really liked the Uhura/Sintina scene. The description of Aurelia by Uhura was so apt. That's perhaps my favorite scene in the whole story.
Looking forward to seeing what S31 has in store for the Indy. And the Uhura/Wo'toth alliance. Talk about strange bedfellows.
Side Question: Did Collins kill Yanas Tigan?
Also, some good character building with Zo'Kama and Jinal. I liked the Zo and Satie scene.
I really liked the Uhura/Sintina scene. The description of Aurelia by Uhura was so apt. That's perhaps my favorite scene in the whole story.
Looking forward to seeing what S31 has in store for the Indy. And the Uhura/Wo'toth alliance. Talk about strange bedfellows.
Side Question: Did Collins kill Yanas Tigan?
